During development, it evolved into a re-configurable computer, a new class of computers where the chips do not have dedicated tasks any more. The two main chips carry out different tasks, depending on the needs of the program. The technology used is called FPGA - field programmable gate arrays. These chips can be programmed to do the tasks that the chips of the C-64 or other computers have done. It's no emulation, but it's a re-implementation of the chips that are no longer available since many years.

After a cold start, the FPGA programs (also called "cores") are loaded from a mass-storage device like harddrive or a compact flash card. What's described in one short sentence is a giant leap in computer technology: The hardware can be altered by the user without even opening the computer. The FPGA programs - so-called "cores" - turn the C-One into clones of famous 80's computers like the C64, VIC-20, Amstrad/Schneider CPC and even the Amiga. It can of course also be a completely new computer with specs yet unknown, as developers can alter the hardware on their own. A good example of that is a turbo-CPC that is a lot faster than the original CPC computer, while still maintaining compatibility to the old machine.