Q. I am a student with the 6502 assembly language as part of my course. I'm interested in the Commodore 64 computer as I understand it uses a microprocessor compatible with the 6502. Is this true and if so can you tell me where I can get the necessary assembler?

Also, I am planning to move abroad and will be taking a micro with me. Can you suggest a book on repairing microcomputers as I think I might have to do the job myself?

J. Sturrock
Aberdeen

A. You're right - the 6510 processor used by the C64 is completely compatible with the 6502. In fact, with the exception of a couple of registers designed to manipulate the C64's memory configuration, it is identical.

As to possible assemblers, you have a wide choice from simple monitors upwards. Perhaps the best come from Supersoft, Commodore and Hesware. Supersoft's version comes on cartridge, so it is instantly available and allows the use of labels, etc.

Commodore's product is disk-based and offers just about every feature you could want including the user of macros. For cassette, Hesware offers the 6510 Development System which is a multi-pass assembler. All of these are available from good software stores.

With regard to taking a micro abroad and repairing it yourself, this course of action is unnecessary unless you're thinking of going to a desert island. Commodores, Apples, Spectrums and other best-sellers are now available in many countries and repair facilities should be available. Of more importance is whether your micro's power supply and display facilities will work with foreign systems. Check before your buy or be prepared to sell your system and buy another when you arrive abroad.