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{{Infobox computer
{{Infobox computer
| name                             =  
| name = Nintendo Entertainment System / Family Computer
| logo                             =  
| logo = [[File:NES logo.svg|frameless|Official Nintendo Entertainment System logo]]<br /><div style="margin-top:5px">[[File:Family Computer logo.svg|frameless|Family Computer logo]]</div>
| 90px]]
| image = <div style="background-color: white; border: #dadada solid 1px; white-space: nowrap;">
| image                    =  
[[File:NES-Console-Set.png|frameless|Nintendo Entertainment System with controller]]<br />
| 260px|frameless]]
[[File:Nintendo-Famicom-Console-Set-FL.png|frameless|Nintendo Family Computer]]
| caption      =  
</div>
| developer                        =  
| caption = '''Top:''' NES Control Deck (with detachable controllers)<br />'''Bottom:''' Family Computer ("Famicom") main unit (with hardwired controllers)
| manufacturer                      =
| developer = Nintendo Research & Development 2
| type                              =
| manufacturer = Nintendo
| release_date                      =
| type = Home video game console
| discontinued                      =
| release date = {{Video game release
| price                            =
  | JP = {{Start date|1983|07|15}}
| cpu                              =  
  | NA = October 18, 1985
| memory                            =  
  | EU = September 1, 1986
| storage                          =  
  | AUS = July 1987
| display                          =  
| os                                =  
| successor                        =
| model                            =
| image                            =
| 250px]]
| caption                =  
| release date                     =
| sound                            =
| dimensions                        =
| weight                            =
| predecessor                      =  
| codename                          =  
| Mega Drive / Genesis]]
| codename =  
}}
}}
| discontinued = {{Video game release
  | JP = September 25, 2003
  | NA = August 14, 1995
  | EU = 1995
}}
| price = US$179 (1985, Control Deck set)
| cpu = Ricoh 2A03 (NTSC) / 2A07 (PAL), based on MOS Technology 6502 @ 1.79 MHz (NTSC) / 1.66 MHz (PAL)
| memory = 2 KB onboard RAM, 2 KB video RAM; expandable via cartridge
| storage = ROM cartridge (up to 1 MB with mappers)
| display = 256×240 px (NTSC), 256×240 px (PAL); 48 colours, 25 on-screen
| sound = 5-channel mono (2 pulse, 1 triangle, 1 noise, 1 DPCM); Famicom expansion audio via cartridge
| dimensions = NES: 25.4 × 20.3 × 7.6 cm; Famicom: 22.0 × 15.0 × 5.4 cm
| weight = NES: 1.4 kg; Famicom: 0.9 kg
| os = None (game cartridge-based)
| predecessor = [[Color TV-Game]]
| successor = [[Super Nintendo Entertainment System|Super NES / Super Famicom]]
| model = NES-001 (front-loader), NES-101 (top-loader), HVC-001 (Famicom)
| codename = "GameCom" (prototype)
}}
The '''Nintendo Entertainment System''' ('''NES'''), released in Japan as the '''Family Computer''' ('''Famicom'''), is an 8-bit third-generation home video game console developed and manufactured by Nintendo. First launched in Japan on 15 July 1983 and later released in North America, Europe, and Australia, the NES revitalised the video game industry following the crash of 1983 and became one of the most influential consoles of all time. Its robust hardware, iconic controller design, and extensive library—including classics such as ''Super Mario Bros.'', ''The Legend of Zelda'', and ''Metroid''—cemented its legacy in gaming history.


{{Infobox computer
== Architecture and Processor ==
| name          = Nintendo Entertainment System
The NES is powered by the Ricoh 2A03 (NTSC) or 2A07 (PAL) microprocessor, a custom variant of the MOS Technology 6502. This 8-bit CPU runs at approximately 1.79&nbsp;MHz (NTSC) or 1.66&nbsp;MHz (PAL). The processor integrates basic audio functions and manages all system operations, including communication with the Picture Processing Unit (PPU) and controller inputs.
| logo          = [[File:Nintendo Entertainment System logo.svg|90px]]
| image          = [[File:NES-Console-Set.png|260px|frameless]]
| caption        = The original Nintendo Entertainment System console
| developer      = [[Nintendo]]
| manufacturer  = Nintendo
| type          = Home video game console
| release_date  = {{ubl|JP: 15 July 1983 (as Family Computer)|NA: 18 October 1985|EU: 1 September 1986|AUS: 1 July 1987}}
| discontinued  = {{ubl|JP: 25 September 2003|NA: 14 August 1995|EU: 1995}}
| price          = US$179.99 (at launch, North America)<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2015/10/feature_the_nes_launch_in_north_america_-_30_years_later|title=Feature: The NES Launch in North America - 30 Years Later|website=Nintendo Life|date=18 October 2015}}</ref>
| cpu            = [[Ricoh 2A03]] 8-bit processor @ 1.79&nbsp;MHz (NTSC), 1.66&nbsp;MHz (PAL)
| memory        = 2&nbsp;KB [[RAM]]
| storage        = ROM cartridge
| display        = 256 × 240 pixels, 48 colours (palette), [[composite video]] output
}}


The '''Nintendo Entertainment System''' ('''NES''') is an 8-bit third-generation home video game console developed and manufactured by [[Nintendo]]. It was first released in Japan in 1983 as the '''Family Computer''' ('''Famicom'''), and later launched in North America, Europe, and Australia under the NES name. The NES played a pivotal role in revitalising the video game industry following the video game crash of 1983 and introduced many iconic franchises, such as ''[[Super Mario Bros.]]'', ''[[The Legend of Zelda]]'', and ''[[Metroid]]''.
== Memory and Storage ==
The console features 2&nbsp;KB of onboard RAM and 2&nbsp;KB of video RAM. Game cartridges often include additional RAM and memory mappers to support larger and more complex games, with ROM sizes ranging up to 1&nbsp;MB. Save data is typically stored on battery-backed SRAM within the cartridge.


==History==
== Display and Graphics ==
The NES was released as the Family Computer (Famicom) in Japan on 15 July 1983. After initial hardware issues were resolved, it became a major success. Nintendo redesigned the console for the North American market, releasing it as the Nintendo Entertainment System on 18 October 1985 in New York City, with a wider release in 1986. The NES was later launched in Europe and Australia.
The NES utilises a custom Picture Processing Unit (PPU) capable of displaying a resolution of 256×240 pixels (NTSC/PAL), with a palette of 54 colours (48 displayable at once). It supports up to 64 sprites on screen, with hardware limitations of 8 sprites per scanline, and offers smooth scrolling and tile-based backgrounds.


==Hardware==
== Sound Capabilities ==
The NES is powered by a Ricoh 2A03 8-bit processor (a modified [[MOS Technology 6502]]) running at 1.79&nbsp;MHz (NTSC) or 1.66&nbsp;MHz (PAL). It has 2&nbsp;KB of onboard RAM and uses ROM cartridges for game storage. The system outputs video at a resolution of 256 × 240 pixels and supports up to 48 colours from a palette of 54.
The Ricoh 2A03/2A07 CPU includes a 5-channel audio system: two pulse wave channels, one triangle wave, one noise channel, and one DPCM (sample playback) channel. The Famicom supports additional sound expansion chips via the cartridge slot, enabling enhanced audio in some Japanese titles.


===Controllers===
== Input/Output and Expansion ==
The NES introduced the now-standard [[D-pad]] controller design, replacing the joysticks used by earlier consoles. The system supports two controllers and various peripherals, such as the [[NES Zapper]] light gun and the [[R.O.B.]] robot accessory.
The NES features two controller ports (detachable on NES, hardwired on original Famicom), a 72-pin (NES) or 60-pin (Famicom) cartridge slot, and expansion ports for peripherals such as the Zapper light gun, R.O.B. robot, and Famicom Disk System. The Famicom includes a microphone in controller II and an expansion port for additional accessories.


==Game library==
== General Maintenance ==
The NES has a vast library of games, with over 700 officially licensed titles released worldwide. Notable games include ''Super Mario Bros.'', ''The Legend of Zelda'', ''Metroid'', ''Mega Man'', and ''Castlevania''. The NES was instrumental in establishing many of Nintendo's most famous franchises.
Routine maintenance involves cleaning cartridge connectors and controller ports, replacing worn-out rubber pads in controllers, and occasionally reflowing solder joints on the mainboard. The NES-001 is prone to "blinking red light" issues due to worn cartridge connectors, which can be resolved by replacing or refurbishing the connector.


==Legacy==
== PCB Schematics & Service Guide ==
The NES is widely regarded as one of the most influential video game consoles of all time. It helped to revive the video game industry and set standards for future home consoles. The NES's design and many of its games continue to be celebrated, and the console has been re-released in various forms, such as the [[NES Classic Edition]].
Official service manuals and schematics are available for both NES and Famicom models, detailing board layouts, component values, and troubleshooting procedures. Common repairs include replacing failed capacitors, voltage regulators, and the lockout chip (CIC) for region-free operation. You can also refer to the [[Nintendo Entertainment System General Maintenance]]


==See also==
=== Motherboard Images ===
* [[Family Computer Disk System]]
<gallery mode="packed">
* [[List of best-selling NES games]]
File:Nintendo-NES-Mk1-Motherboard-Top.jpg|NES-001 (front-loader) motherboard
* [[Nintendo Entertainment System hardware clone]]
File:Nintendo-Famicom-Motherboard-BR.jpg|Famicom HVC-CPU-07 motherboard
</gallery>


==References==
=== Schematics ===
{{Reflist}}
<gallery mode="packed">
File:NES-001-Schematic---Cartridge,-Controller,-Zapper.png|Cartridge, Controller, Zapper
File:NES-001-Schematic---Controller-Ports.png|Controller Ports
File:NES-001-Schematic---CPU,-PPU,-RAM,-CIC.png|CPU, PPU, RAM, CIC
File:NES-001-Schematic---Power,-AV,-RF-Switch.png|Power, AV, RF Switch
</gallery>


==External links==
== Gallery ==
* [https://www.nintendo.co.jp/clv/index.html Official NES Classic Edition site (Japan)]
<gallery mode="packed">
* [https://www.nintendo.com/nes-classic/ Official NES Classic Edition site (US)]
File:NES-Console-Set.png|Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) with controller
* [https://www.museumofplay.org/nes/ NES at The Strong National Museum of Play]
File:Nintendo-Famicom-Console-Set-FL.png|Family Computer (Famicom) main unit
File:Nintendo-Entertainment-System-NES-Controller-FL.jpg|NES controller
File:Famicom-Controllers.jpg|Famicom controllers (I & II)
</gallery>


[[Category:Nintendo consoles]]
== Related Pages ==
[[Category:Third-generation video game consoles]]
* [[Super Nintendo Entertainment System]]
[[Category:Products introduced in 1983]]
* [[Famicom Disk System]]
[[Category:1980s toys]]
* [[List of NES games]]


{{Navbox-AppleVintage}}
[[Category: Nintendo]]

Latest revision as of 20:31, 9 August 2025

Nintendo Entertainment System / Family Computer
Official Nintendo Entertainment System logo
Family Computer logo

Nintendo Entertainment System with controller
Nintendo Family Computer

Top: NES Control Deck (with detachable controllers)
Bottom: Family Computer ("Famicom") main unit (with hardwired controllers)
Specifications
DeveloperNintendo Research & Development 2
ManufacturerNintendo
TypeHome video game console
ReleasedRelease dates:JP: July 15, 1983 • NA: October 18, 1985 • EU: September 1, 1986
DiscontinuedRelease dates:JP: September 25, 2003 • NA: August 14, 1995 • EU: 1995
Intro priceUS$179 (1985, Control Deck set)
CPURicoh 2A03 (NTSC) / 2A07 (PAL), based on MOS Technology 6502 @ 1.79 MHz (NTSC) / 1.66 MHz (PAL)
Memory2 KB onboard RAM, 2 KB video RAM; expandable via cartridge
StorageROM cartridge (up to 1 MB with mappers)
Display256×240 px (NTSC), 256×240 px (PAL); 48 colours, 25 on-screen
Sound5-channel mono (2 pulse, 1 triangle, 1 noise, 1 DPCM); Famicom expansion audio via cartridge
DimensionsNES: 25.4 × 20.3 × 7.6 cm; Famicom: 22.0 × 15.0 × 5.4 cm
WeightNES: 1.4 kg; Famicom: 0.9 kg
OS / FirmwareNone (game cartridge-based)
PredecessorColor TV-Game
SuccessorSuper NES / Super Famicom
Codename"GameCom" (prototype)
Model no.NES-001 (front-loader), NES-101 (top-loader), HVC-001 (Famicom)

The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), released in Japan as the Family Computer (Famicom), is an 8-bit third-generation home video game console developed and manufactured by Nintendo. First launched in Japan on 15 July 1983 and later released in North America, Europe, and Australia, the NES revitalised the video game industry following the crash of 1983 and became one of the most influential consoles of all time. Its robust hardware, iconic controller design, and extensive library—including classics such as Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, and Metroid—cemented its legacy in gaming history.

Architecture and Processor

[edit | edit source]

The NES is powered by the Ricoh 2A03 (NTSC) or 2A07 (PAL) microprocessor, a custom variant of the MOS Technology 6502. This 8-bit CPU runs at approximately 1.79 MHz (NTSC) or 1.66 MHz (PAL). The processor integrates basic audio functions and manages all system operations, including communication with the Picture Processing Unit (PPU) and controller inputs.

Memory and Storage

[edit | edit source]

The console features 2 KB of onboard RAM and 2 KB of video RAM. Game cartridges often include additional RAM and memory mappers to support larger and more complex games, with ROM sizes ranging up to 1 MB. Save data is typically stored on battery-backed SRAM within the cartridge.

Display and Graphics

[edit | edit source]

The NES utilises a custom Picture Processing Unit (PPU) capable of displaying a resolution of 256×240 pixels (NTSC/PAL), with a palette of 54 colours (48 displayable at once). It supports up to 64 sprites on screen, with hardware limitations of 8 sprites per scanline, and offers smooth scrolling and tile-based backgrounds.

Sound Capabilities

[edit | edit source]

The Ricoh 2A03/2A07 CPU includes a 5-channel audio system: two pulse wave channels, one triangle wave, one noise channel, and one DPCM (sample playback) channel. The Famicom supports additional sound expansion chips via the cartridge slot, enabling enhanced audio in some Japanese titles.

Input/Output and Expansion

[edit | edit source]

The NES features two controller ports (detachable on NES, hardwired on original Famicom), a 72-pin (NES) or 60-pin (Famicom) cartridge slot, and expansion ports for peripherals such as the Zapper light gun, R.O.B. robot, and Famicom Disk System. The Famicom includes a microphone in controller II and an expansion port for additional accessories.

General Maintenance

[edit | edit source]

Routine maintenance involves cleaning cartridge connectors and controller ports, replacing worn-out rubber pads in controllers, and occasionally reflowing solder joints on the mainboard. The NES-001 is prone to "blinking red light" issues due to worn cartridge connectors, which can be resolved by replacing or refurbishing the connector.

PCB Schematics & Service Guide

[edit | edit source]

Official service manuals and schematics are available for both NES and Famicom models, detailing board layouts, component values, and troubleshooting procedures. Common repairs include replacing failed capacitors, voltage regulators, and the lockout chip (CIC) for region-free operation. You can also refer to the Nintendo Entertainment System General Maintenance

Motherboard Images

[edit | edit source]
  • NES-001 (front-loader) motherboard
    NES-001 (front-loader) motherboard
  • Famicom HVC-CPU-07 motherboard
    Famicom HVC-CPU-07 motherboard

Schematics

[edit | edit source]
  • Cartridge, Controller, Zapper
    Cartridge, Controller, Zapper
  • Controller Ports
    Controller Ports
  • CPU, PPU, RAM, CIC
    CPU, PPU, RAM, CIC
  • Power, AV, RF Switch
    Power, AV, RF Switch
[edit | edit source]
  • Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) with controller
    Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) with controller
  • Family Computer (Famicom) main unit
    Family Computer (Famicom) main unit
  • NES controller
    NES controller
  • Famicom controllers (I & II)
    Famicom controllers (I & II)
[edit | edit source]
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