This post covers the first one. Make sure you're sitting down, by the way.
I learned that during the late 90s CMD actually considered making their own 8-bit computer. The idea was that, similar to the C65, 128 and now Mega65, it would include multiple computer modes. Mode 1 would be a fully compatible C64. Mode 2 would be pure CMD Native format with JiffyDOS built-in. And, on the heels of the 20 Mhz SuperCPU, this new computer would leverage the same exact CPU, thus bringing a 20 Mhz computer to the market during a time of 200 Mhz PowerPCs and Pentium IIs. But for an 8-bit computer at 20 Mhz, the performance gains would have been shocking to any that ever witnessed them.
CMD was still very focused on the SuperCPU rollout and the 128-specific version at the time, but supposedly an actual computer design had been developed. Venture capital investment was needed in order to get to the manufacturing stage, which never materialized.
After having fallen in love with CMDs hardware, it does make the mind wander where CMD might have taken 8-bit computing had they realized their dreams.
I'll uncover another side quest soon.
(see also: side quest 2: The CMD Font)
