Magnavox Odyssey 2 | |
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Manufacturer | Magnavox/Philips |
Generation | Second generation |
Release date | December 2, 1978 |
Media type | ROM cartridge (2-8KB) |
Input | 2 joysticks, QWERTY membrane keyboard |
Predecessor | Magnavox Odyssey |
The Magnavox Odyssey² is the successor to the first video game console, the Magnavox Odyssey, and takes advantage of the new technology of programmable ROM modules. It was released by Phillips in all territories outside the US, where it was known as Phillips Videopac G7000, except Brazil where it was knows as Phillips Odyssey (since the first one never released there, there was no need to call it Odyssey 2).
Unlike any other system at that time, the Odyssey² included a full alphanumeric membrane keyboard, which was to be used for educational games, selecting options, or programming (Magnavox released a cartridge called Computer Intro! with the intent of teaching simple computer programming), which allowed for more complex input than offered by the standard joystick of the era. It also had an add-on speech module which vastly enhanced the music and sound effects and even added voice to certain games.
Technical specifications[]
Technical Specifications | |
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CPU | Intel 8048 8-bit clocked at 1.79 MHz. |
Memory | CPU-internal RAM: 64 bytes Audio/video RAM: 128 bytes |
GPU | Intel 8244 (NTSC) or 8245 (PAL) custom IC (it also handles the audio) |
Display | 160×200 resolution (NTSC) 16-color fixed palette; sprites may only use 8 of these colors |
Audio | Noise generator, mono 24-bit shift register, clockable at 2 frequencies |
Media | ROM cartridges of 2,4 or 8 KB |
Output ports | RF Audio/Video connector SCART (France only) |
Power | AC 110V, 50\60Hz / DC 12V, 600mA |