Atari Video Computer
System
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The Atari VCS and 2600 was one of the most popular home consoles ever produced.
First released in 1978 it is also
one of the first. There are at least 800 games available many of which
were simpler versions of popular arcade games such Pac-Man, Space Invaders
and Defender.
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Atari Video Computer System
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VCS CX2600
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1978
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The Original model has woodgrain and black plastic case. Six silver
switches across the upper front panel. Bundled accessories include
two CX40 joysticks, one CX30 paddle controller, AC adapter, TV switch
and a CX2601 Combat game cart.
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Atari VCS Specs
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CPU
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6507, 1.19 MHz
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MEMORY
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RAM: 128 Bytes, in VLSI
ROM: 4K max
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GRAPHICS
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Stella, a custom graphics chip that controlled the synchronization
to the TV and all other video processing tasks
Graphics Clock: 1.19 MHz
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STORAGE
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Carts
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NOTES
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2 joystick ports.
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Other Atari Models
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Sears TeleGames Video
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Same as above except some external
cosmetic differences (the "difficulty" switches are labeled "skill
level", switch panel is silver instead of black, woodgrain pattern
is slightly different. Also Labled Sears Telegames.
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Atari 2600
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1982
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Officially uses the name "2600"
for the first time to help differentiate it from the newly introduced
5200 Super System. The 2600 is primarily black with no woodgrain,
and otherwise looks like the VCS
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Atari 2600 Jr
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1986
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Entirely new model of the 2600, Black wedge-shaped enclosure,
with push button switches and LEDs on top panel. Internally very different
from other 2600 models, but still uses the same basic chipset.
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All-black version of the Atari 2600
Jr
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A white version of the Atari Jr.
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Atari VCS / 2600 Games
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Atari Space Invaders
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Atari PacMan
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Qbert
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Spiderman
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Games came in cardboard boxes with
the cart held in place with a card inset. Atari Adventure shown.
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Atari Accessories
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Atari Video Touch Pad for Star Raiders.
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Track ball, all black with wedge
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The Paddle controller allowed for
different gameplay in games such as breakout. Two paddles connected
to one connector to allow up to 4 to be plugged in. 'Driving paddles'
(pictured) were required for some games such as Indy 500.
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Mind Link!
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The standard Atari CX40 Joystick,
part of the Atari's success must be attributed to the joystick design
which was very sturdy and well suited to playing games such as Pac-man.
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Remote control joysticks
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