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FUSE – ZX Spectrum Emulator

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FUSE (Free Unix Spectrum Emulator) is a highly versatile and accurate ZX Spectrum emulator, supporting a wide range of models including the 16K, 48K (NTSC variant), 128K, +2, +2A, and +3. It also emulates less common models like the +3e, SE, TC2048, TC2068, TS2068, Pentagon 128, and Scorpion ZS 256.

FUSE Download

Select which version you require below to be taken to either the official website or app store for your device where you can download:

Windows
apple [#173] Created with Sketch. macOS
Linux

FUSE Setup Instructions

Setting up the ZX Spectrum emulator FUSE is straightforward. This guide walks you through downloading, installing, and configuring FUSE, and loading Spectrum games.

1. Download FUSE Emulator

  1. Download the Version Required:
    • Using the above links, ensure you download the main FUSE emulator and not the utilities.
    • Click the download link. If the download doesn’t start, repeat the process.

2. Install FUSE Emulator

  1. Run the Installer:
    • Double-click the downloaded emulator installer file
    • Follow the installation prompts.
  2. Choose Installation Location:
    • By default on Windows, FUSE will install in the C:\Program Files directory. You can change this if you prefer.
    • Click Next and then Install.
  3. Complete Installation:
    • Once installed, a shortcut with the Spectrum 48k icon will appear on your desktop.
    • Click Finish to launch the emulator.

3. Configure FUSE Emulator

  1. Launch FUSE:
    • Double-click the FUSE icon on your desktop.
  2. Download a Game:
    • For this tutorial, we’ll use a homebrew game. Download any homebrew game from Itch.IO to use with this guide.
    • Locate the .tap file (common for Spectrum games) and move it to your desktop.

4. Load and Run a Game

  1. Change Machine Type:
    • Open FUSE and go to Machine > Select.
    • Choose Spectrum 128k if the game is designed for this model.
    • Click OK.
  2. Open the Game File:
    • Go to File > Open.
    • Navigate to the game file on your desktop and double-click it.

5. Configure Controls

  1. Set Up Joystick:
    • Go to Options > Peripherals > General.
    • Select Kempston joystick and click OK.
  2. Assign Joystick:
    • Go to Options > Joysticks.
    • Set Joystick 1 to Kempston.
    • Click OK.
  3. Start the Game:
    • The game will prompt you to choose controls. Select Kempston (usually option 2).
    • Use your connected controller (e.g., PlayStation 3 controller) to play.

6. Adjust Display Settings

  1. Resize Window:
    • FUSE does not support full-screen mode, but you can resize the window.
    • Go to Options > Filter.
  2. Change Scaling:
    • Choose options like 2x, 3x, 4x for larger window sizes.
    • For a smoother look, select Super Eagle or other filters to reduce pixelation.

7. Additional Tips

  • Explore Settings:
    • FUSE offers various settings and customization options. Explore these under the Options menu.
  • Check for Updates:
    • Regularly check for updates to ensure you have the latest features and fixes.