Description
vLA82 ZX Spectrum 16/48K ULA replacement
The vLA82 is a modern plugin replacement for the Spectrum 48K ULA (type 6C001E-7 or earlier).
These are new ULA replacements created and manufactured by Charlie Ingley. He sells these direct, but due to being located in New Zealand, postage and import costs to the EU/UK mean costs increase substantially. We are able to sell this at a price below the total cost to order direct.
vLA82 Features include:
- Plugin ULA replacement. In most cases the existing socket will be OK, but there are some which only support very small pins (please see the installation guide for more information). A suitable socket is also available as an option to purchase if needed.
- The vLA82 is designed to fit in a “rubber key” ZX Spectrum without modification.
- Provides the same functionality as the 6C001-7 Sinclair ULA.
- Passes standard ULA benchmark tests.
- Tested with an extensive suite of ZX Spectrum software.
- Compatible with lower ram replacement modules.
- Ideal for installing in an aftermarket Spectrum PCB without needing an original ULA.
- Low power consumption.
For full details please see Charlie’s site here: vdrivezx.com/vla82/
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is the vLA82 a “plug-and-play” replacement?
A: In most cases, yes! If your original Sinclair ULA is already in a socket, the vLA82 simply plugs in. If your ULA is soldered directly to the board (common on some Issue 2 or 3 models), you will need to desolder the old chip and install a 40-pin socket first.
Q: Does it fit under the original ZX Spectrum case?
A: Absolutely. The vLA82 was specifically designed with a low profile to ensure it fits perfectly inside the “rubber key” 16K/48K case and the Plus case without any modifications or interference with the keyboard membrane.
Q: Does the vLA82 change the way the Spectrum looks or sounds?
A: No. It is a 1:1 functional replacement. It replicates the original video timing, border effects, and “EAR” speaker sounds perfectly. However, because it is a modern CMOS-based chip, it runs much cooler than the original Ferranti ULA, which helps protect your motherboard from heat damage.
Q: Which ULA versions does it replace?
A: It is compatible with all 40-pin ULAs found in the 16K and 48K models, including the 6C001E-7, 5C112E, and 5C102E. It is not compatible with the Spectrum 128K (Toastrack) or +2/+3 models.
Q: I have an Issue 2 board; will this work?
A: Yes! The vLA82 supports all board revisions from Issue 1 through to Issue 6A. Note that on Issue 2 boards, you may need to adjust the variable resistors (VR1 and VR2) on your motherboard to fine-tune the video output colour, just as you would with an original chip.
Still unsure if this is the right part for your repair? Click here to message us—we’re happy to help you diagnose your Spectrum fault before you buy!
