When you buy ICs for our retro computers or repair one, it is always necessary to check whether the component is functional.

Alas retro ICs for sale are from old stock, pulled from existing boards and quite often IC’s are “refurbished” by sanding off original descriptions and applying new ones. Mostly to make the IC more worth. It is not uncommon to buy a MOS Technology 6502, receive a good looking IC with MOS branding and datecodes. But it may not be a 6502 at all. Or a more common and cheap Rockwell 65C02. Or to buy a WDC 65C02 and get an older 6502.

So you need to test components. Preferably known to be of good quality before they are inserted in the computer.
But you know the truth about testing: it can show you things that are broken, but not that all is perfect. Every test is limited.

I have collected several devices that help me check retro ICs and especially 650X ICs.
On the following pages I show you some testers I have with all pro’s and con’s.

Conclusion:

1. My favorite component tester is the Backbit Chiptester PRO V2, for CPUs (650X, Z80, 680X), many RAM/ROM, logic ICs
2. The Retro Chip Tester adds a long list of tests of retro ICs, not for CPUs but for ROM, RAM and logic IC’s
3. My favorite 6502 tester (and for most 650X and also 680X) is the MC680x/MCS650x Test Board sold by cpushack.