Sega 32X: Difference between revisions
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{{Infobox computer | {{Infobox computer | ||
| name = Sega 32X | | name = Sega 32X | ||
| image = [[File:Sega- | | image = [[File:Sega-Genesis-Model2-32X.jpg|250px]] | ||
| caption = Sega 32X add-on attached to a Mega Drive / Genesis | | caption = Sega 32X add-on attached to a Mega Drive / Genesis | ||
| manufacturer = Sega | | manufacturer = Sega | ||
| Line 16: | Line 16: | ||
| weight = 0.7 kg | | weight = 0.7 kg | ||
| os = | | os = | ||
| predecessor = | | predecessor =[[Sega Mega Drive / Genesis (Model 2)]] | ||
| successor = [[Sega Saturn]] | | successor = [[Sega Saturn (Model 1)]] | ||
| codename = Mars | | codename = Mars | ||
| model = MK-84000 (Japan/NA), MK-84001 (EU) | | model = MK-84000 (Japan/NA), MK-84001 (EU) | ||
| logo = [[File:Sega 32X logo.svg|250px]] | | logo = [[File:Sega 32X logo.svg|250px]] | ||
| | |}} | ||
}} | |||
The '''Sega 32X''' is a 32-bit add-on for the Sega Mega Drive / Genesis, released in late 1994. Designed to extend the lifespan of Sega's 16-bit console, it provided enhanced graphics and processing capabilities, but saw limited commercial success due to its brief market window and competition from next-generation systems. | The '''Sega 32X''' is a 32-bit add-on for the Sega Mega Drive / Genesis, released in late 1994. Designed to extend the lifespan of Sega's 16-bit console, it provided enhanced graphics and processing capabilities, but saw limited commercial success due to its brief market window and competition from next-generation systems. | ||
== | == Architecture and Processor == | ||
The Sega 32X features a unique dual-processor architecture: | The Sega 32X features a unique dual-processor architecture: | ||
* '''2 × Hitachi SH-2 32-bit RISC CPUs''' running at 23 MHz each, operating in parallel for graphics, game logic, and 3D calculations. | * '''2 × Hitachi SH-2 32-bit RISC CPUs''' running at 23 MHz each, operating in parallel for graphics, game logic, and 3D calculations. | ||
| Line 34: | Line 32: | ||
The SH-2 CPUs are capable of executing up to 28 MIPS combined, allowing for advanced graphical effects and 3D rendering not possible on the base Mega Drive hardware. | The SH-2 CPUs are capable of executing up to 28 MIPS combined, allowing for advanced graphical effects and 3D rendering not possible on the base Mega Drive hardware. | ||
== | == Memory and Storage == | ||
The 32X includes expanded memory resources: | The 32X includes expanded memory resources: | ||
* '''256 KB DRAM''' (main memory for SH-2 CPUs) | * '''256 KB DRAM''' (main memory for SH-2 CPUs) | ||
| Line 44: | Line 42: | ||
Games are loaded via dedicated 32X cartridges, which are physically larger and incompatible with standard Mega Drive-only titles. | Games are loaded via dedicated 32X cartridges, which are physically larger and incompatible with standard Mega Drive-only titles. | ||
== | == Display and Graphics == | ||
The 32X significantly enhances the Mega Drive's video output: | The 32X significantly enhances the Mega Drive's video output: | ||
* '''Resolution:''' 320×224 pixels (standard), 256×224 in some modes | * '''Resolution:''' 320×224 pixels (standard), 256×224 in some modes | ||
| Line 55: | Line 53: | ||
The 32X overlays its graphics atop the Mega Drive's video, enabling advanced effects such as texture mapping, polygonal 3D, and enhanced colour depth. | The 32X overlays its graphics atop the Mega Drive's video, enabling advanced effects such as texture mapping, polygonal 3D, and enhanced colour depth. | ||
== | == Sound Capabilities == | ||
The 32X itself does not include dedicated sound hardware, but utilises the Mega Drive's: | The 32X itself does not include dedicated sound hardware, but utilises the Mega Drive's: | ||
* '''Yamaha YM2612''' FM synthesizer (6 channels, stereo) | * '''Yamaha YM2612''' FM synthesizer (6 channels, stereo) | ||
| Line 63: | Line 61: | ||
Some 32X games feature enhanced soundtracks by streaming digital audio or using the Mega Drive's sound chips in new ways, but all audio is ultimately mixed and output through the base console. | Some 32X games feature enhanced soundtracks by streaming digital audio or using the Mega Drive's sound chips in new ways, but all audio is ultimately mixed and output through the base console. | ||
== | == Input/Output and Expansion == | ||
The 32X connects directly to the Mega Drive / Genesis cartridge slot and A/V output, drawing power from a separate AC adapter. Key features include: | The 32X connects directly to the Mega Drive / Genesis cartridge slot and A/V output, drawing power from a separate AC adapter. Key features include: | ||
* '''Cartridge slot''' (top-mounted, accepts only 32X games) | * '''Cartridge slot''' (top-mounted, accepts only 32X games) | ||
| Line 70: | Line 68: | ||
* '''Separate power supply''' (9V DC, 850 mA) | * '''Separate power supply''' (9V DC, 850 mA) | ||
* '''Standard Mega Drive controller ports''' (2 × DE-9) | * '''Standard Mega Drive controller ports''' (2 × DE-9) | ||
* Compatible with [[Sega CD]] for select 32X CD-enhanced games | * Compatible with [[Sega CD (Model 2)|Sega CD]] for select 32X CD-enhanced games | ||
The unit is region-locked, with separate models for Japan, North America, and Europe. | The unit is region-locked, with separate models for Japan, North America, and Europe. | ||
== | == PCB Schematics & Service Manual == | ||
<templatestyles src="Template:StyledTable/styles.css" /> | <templatestyles src="Template:StyledTable/styles.css" /> | ||
| Line 82: | Line 80: | ||
! Main Board !! Schematic Diagram | ! Main Board !! Schematic Diagram | ||
|- | |- | ||
| [[File:Sega-32X- | | [[File:Sega-Genesis-32X-Motherboard-Top.jpg|center|thumb|260x260px|Sega 32X main PCB, top view]] | ||
| [[ | |Refer to the | ||
[[Sega Genesis 32X / Mega Drive 32X Service Manual]] | |||
|} | |} | ||
You can find the Sega 32X service manual here: [[Sega Genesis 32X / Mega Drive 32X Service Manual]] as well as the service bullitins here: [[Sega 32X Service Builletins]] | |||
== | == Gallery == | ||
<gallery mode="packed" heights="200"> | <gallery mode="packed" heights="200"> | ||
File:Sega- | File:Sega-Genesis-Model2-32X.jpg|Sega 32X add-on with Mega Drive II | ||
File:Sega-32X- | File:Sega-Genesis-32X-04.jpg|Sega 32X add-on (Underside) | ||
File:Sega-32X- | File:Sega-Genesis-32X-02.jpg|Sega 32X add-on (Back) | ||
File:Sega-32X- | File:Sega-Genesis-32X-Motherboard-Top.jpg|Internal view of Sega 32X PCB | ||
</gallery> | </gallery> | ||
== | == Related Pages == | ||
* [[Sega 32X | * [[Sega 32X Maintenance Guide]] | ||
* [[Sega 32X Troubleshooting Guide]] | * [[Sega 32X Troubleshooting Guide]] | ||
* [[Sega 32X Capacitor Replacement Guide]] | * [[Sega 32X Capacitor Replacement Guide]] | ||
* [[Sega 32X Game Compatibility Guide]] | * [[Sega 32X Game Compatibility Guide]] | ||
<templatestyles src="Template:StyledTable/styles.css" /> | <templatestyles src="Template:StyledTable/styles.css" /> | ||
[[Category:Sega Systems]] | |||
Latest revision as of 09:12, 12 May 2025
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 | |
| Sega 32X add-on attached to a Mega Drive / Genesis | |
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Sega |
| Type | Video game console add-on |
| Released | November 21, 1994 (NA), December 3, 1994 (JP), January 1995 (EU) |
| Discontinued | 1996 |
| Intro price | US$159 (launch) |
| CPU | Dual Hitachi SH-2 32-bit RISC @ 23 MHz; Zilog Z80 (via Mega Drive) |
| Memory | 256 KB DRAM, 256 KB frame buffer, 2 × 32 KB program RAM, 256 bytes backup RAM |
| Storage | ROM cartridge (up to 32 Mbit) |
| Display | 32,768 colours (15-bit), 320×224 px, hardware scaling/rotation, 50/60 Hz |
| Sound | Yamaha YM2612, Texas Instruments SN76489 (via Mega Drive) |
| Dimensions | 115 mm × 210 mm × 110 mm |
| Weight | 0.7 kg |
| OS / Firmware | |
| Predecessor | Sega Mega Drive / Genesis (Model 2) |
| Successor | Sega Saturn (Model 1) |
| Codename | Mars |
| Model no. | MK-84000 (Japan/NA), MK-84001 (EU) |
The Sega 32X is a 32-bit add-on for the Sega Mega Drive / Genesis, released in late 1994. Designed to extend the lifespan of Sega's 16-bit console, it provided enhanced graphics and processing capabilities, but saw limited commercial success due to its brief market window and competition from next-generation systems.
Architecture and Processor
[edit | edit source]The Sega 32X features a unique dual-processor architecture:
- 2 × Hitachi SH-2 32-bit RISC CPUs running at 23 MHz each, operating in parallel for graphics, game logic, and 3D calculations.
- The add-on interfaces with the Mega Drive's Motorola 68000 (16-bit, 7.6 MHz) and Zilog Z80 (8-bit, 3.58 MHz) CPUs for backward compatibility and sound.
The SH-2 CPUs are capable of executing up to 28 MIPS combined, allowing for advanced graphical effects and 3D rendering not possible on the base Mega Drive hardware.
Memory and Storage
[edit | edit source]The 32X includes expanded memory resources:
- 256 KB DRAM (main memory for SH-2 CPUs)
- 256 KB dual frame buffer (for smooth double-buffered graphics)
- 2 × 32 KB program RAM (one per SH-2)
- 256 bytes backup RAM (for save data, battery-backed in cartridge)
- ROM cartridges up to 32 Mbit (4 MB) in size
Games are loaded via dedicated 32X cartridges, which are physically larger and incompatible with standard Mega Drive-only titles.
Display and Graphics
[edit | edit source]The 32X significantly enhances the Mega Drive's video output:
- Resolution: 320×224 pixels (standard), 256×224 in some modes
- Colour palette: 32,768 colours (15-bit RGB), with up to 256 on-screen simultaneously
- Hardware scaling and rotation for sprites and backgrounds
- Dual frame buffer for flicker-free animation
- Video output: Pass-through to Mega Drive A/V out (composite, RGB SCART, or RF)
- Refresh rates: 50 Hz (PAL), 60 Hz (NTSC)
The 32X overlays its graphics atop the Mega Drive's video, enabling advanced effects such as texture mapping, polygonal 3D, and enhanced colour depth.
Sound Capabilities
[edit | edit source]The 32X itself does not include dedicated sound hardware, but utilises the Mega Drive's:
- Yamaha YM2612 FM synthesizer (6 channels, stereo)
- Texas Instruments SN76489 PSG (4 channels)
- PCM playback via Mega Drive CPU
Some 32X games feature enhanced soundtracks by streaming digital audio or using the Mega Drive's sound chips in new ways, but all audio is ultimately mixed and output through the base console.
Input/Output and Expansion
[edit | edit source]The 32X connects directly to the Mega Drive / Genesis cartridge slot and A/V output, drawing power from a separate AC adapter. Key features include:
- Cartridge slot (top-mounted, accepts only 32X games)
- Pass-through slot for Mega Drive games (not compatible with all titles)
- A/V cable links 32X to Mega Drive for video mixing
- Separate power supply (9V DC, 850 mA)
- Standard Mega Drive controller ports (2 × DE-9)
- Compatible with Sega CD for select 32X CD-enhanced games
The unit is region-locked, with separate models for Japan, North America, and Europe.
PCB Schematics & Service Manual
[edit | edit source]| Main Board | Schematic Diagram |
|---|---|
 |
Refer to the |
You can find the Sega 32X service manual here: Sega Genesis 32X / Mega Drive 32X Service Manual as well as the service bullitins here: Sega 32X Service Builletins
Gallery
[edit | edit source]-
Sega 32X add-on with Mega Drive II -
Sega 32X add-on (Underside) -
Sega 32X add-on (Back) -
Internal view of Sega 32X PCB
