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DesTest MAX Switch-Select Cartridge
Retrocomputing

Overview

The DesTest MAX Switch-Select cartridge has the capability to select between a total of 6 diagnostics programs. The 28F512 PROM can be programmed with up to 2 x 16K 'Switch images, 2 x 8K /GAME (MAX) images and 2 x 8K /EXROM images. There are two slide-switches to allow selection between the six available images when required. This cartridge is described as a one-stop-shop for all your diagnostic program needs.

The DesTest MAX-Switch-Select hardware provides the following:

  • Power LED. Most of the time when diagnosing or repairing a C64, the keyboard is removed along with the Power LED. The DesTest MAX Switch-Select cartridge includes a simple power LED to help avoid mistakes like removing or inserting ICs with the power on.
  • Reset Switch and LED. A faulty reset-circuit in a C64 can prevent it from starting-up properly. A reset-switch can temporarily bypass a faulty reset-circuit, while the LED gives a visual indication if something is wrong.
  • Mode Slide Switch. The switch on the left-hand side of the cartridge selects what kind of diagnostic-image will run at power-up. Use it to pick between a 16K 'Switch image, an 8K /GAME (MAX) image or an 8K /EXROM image.
  • Bank Slide Switch. Each of the three kinds of images (switch, game and exrom) can have two images installed. The right slide switch selects between these two images.

Available Options

Our DesTest MAX Switch-Select products are fully licenced by Matt Desmond, and a portion of sales goes direct to Matt so he can continue to develop further fantastic products for our beloved machines. We provide 4 options to purchase:

Self-assembly kit with no case - This kit contains:

  • DesTest MAX Switch-Select PCB along with pre-soldered SMD components
  • PLCC Socket and 28F512 PROM (Pre-programmed)
  • LEDs
  • Slide Switches
  • Pushbutton for 'Reset' function

Self-assembly kit with case - This kit contains the same items as the above kit, with the added parts:

  • 3D printed cartridge shell
  • 3D printed reset button and LED standoffs
  • Stickers for the shell

Assembled, no case - This is the fully soldered and tested PCB, with no case.

Fully assembled - This is the whole cartridge that is pre-assembled in a case and tested.

NOTE: Basic through-hole soldering skills are required to assemble the kits. SMD components have been pre-soldered.

Links to code and documentation

Documentation (factorofmatt.com)

Product HS Code: 85340090

Shipping policy

I try and ship products the same day where possible (please bear in mind time-zone differences!). It can sometimes take me a few days to despatch orders due to work commitments, post office opening hours, real-life events etc. I do not ordinarily despatch on weekends or UK public/bank holidays.

Please contact me if your country is not available and I will get it added where possible.

DesTest MAX Switch-Select Cartridge

Sold by Bob's Bits

$37.05

No tax for United States [change]
Stock available: 50

The seller

Bob's Bits

Bob's Bits logo

Bridgend, UK
68 orders since Oct 10, 2025
Welcome to my Lectronz store!
I have been producing replica retro computer PCBs since around 2019 and had over 2000 successful orders via my previous Tindie store.
I have now made Lectronz the home for my store so I can hopefully provide a better service to my customers and myself.
Thanks for visiting, and I hope you find what you are looking for!
Rob.