Sega Saturn (Model 1): Difference between revisions
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The '''Sega Saturn''' (Model 1) is a 32-bit fifth-generation home video game console developed by Sega and released in Japan in November 1994, followed by North America and Europe in 1995. Renowned for its complex dual-CPU architecture and advanced 2D/3D graphics capabilities, the Saturn was Sega's answer to the Sony PlayStation and Nintendo 64. | The '''Sega Saturn''' (Model 1) is a 32-bit fifth-generation home video game console developed by Sega and released in Japan in November 1994, followed by North America and Europe in 1995. Renowned for its complex dual-CPU architecture and advanced 2D/3D graphics capabilities, the Saturn was Sega's answer to the Sony PlayStation and Nintendo 64. | ||
== | == Architecture and Processor == | ||
At the heart of the Saturn is a sophisticated multi-processor design: | At the heart of the Saturn is a sophisticated multi-processor design: | ||
* '''Main CPU''': Dual '''Hitachi SH-2''' 32-bit RISC processors, each running at 28.6 MHz, connected via a custom bus. | * '''Main CPU''': Dual '''Hitachi SH-2''' 32-bit RISC processors, each running at 28.6 MHz, connected via a custom bus. | ||
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This parallel architecture enabled advanced graphical effects but presented programming challenges, impacting third-party development. | This parallel architecture enabled advanced graphical effects but presented programming challenges, impacting third-party development. | ||
== | == Memory and Storage == | ||
The Saturn's memory subsystem includes: | The Saturn's memory subsystem includes: | ||
* '''2 MB main RAM''' | * '''2 MB main RAM''' | ||
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'''Storage''' is provided by a double-speed (2×) CD-ROM drive, supporting up to 640 MB per disc. Save data is stored in internal backup RAM or optional external RAM cartridges. | '''Storage''' is provided by a double-speed (2×) CD-ROM drive, supporting up to 640 MB per disc. Save data is stored in internal backup RAM or optional external RAM cartridges. | ||
== | == Display and Graphics == | ||
The Saturn excels at 2D graphics and supports 3D rendering: | The Saturn excels at 2D graphics and supports 3D rendering: | ||
* '''Resolution''': Ranges from 320×224 up to 704×480 pixels (interlaced and non-interlaced modes) | * '''Resolution''': Ranges from 320×224 up to 704×480 pixels (interlaced and non-interlaced modes) | ||
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The Saturn's architecture was optimised for 2D arcade-style games but could deliver impressive 3D visuals when fully utilised. | The Saturn's architecture was optimised for 2D arcade-style games but could deliver impressive 3D visuals when fully utilised. | ||
== | == Sound Capabilities == | ||
Audio on the Saturn is handled by the '''Yamaha YMF292-F (SCSP)''' sound processor: | Audio on the Saturn is handled by the '''Yamaha YMF292-F (SCSP)''' sound processor: | ||
* '''32 sound channels''' (16-bit PCM or 8 FM synthesis) | * '''32 sound channels''' (16-bit PCM or 8 FM synthesis) | ||
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The system's sound hardware enabled rich, multi-layered music and effects, rivaling dedicated audio workstations of the era. | The system's sound hardware enabled rich, multi-layered music and effects, rivaling dedicated audio workstations of the era. | ||
== | == Input/Output and Expansion == | ||
The Saturn provides a range of connectivity and expansion options: | The Saturn provides a range of connectivity and expansion options: | ||
* '''Controller ports''': 2 standard 9-pin Sega controller ports (supporting multitap for up to 6 players) | * '''Controller ports''': 2 standard 9-pin Sega controller ports (supporting multitap for up to 6 players) | ||
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* '''Power supply''': Internal | * '''Power supply''': Internal | ||
== | == PCB Schematics & Service Manual == | ||
<templatestyles src="Template:StyledTable/styles.css" /> | <templatestyles src="Template:StyledTable/styles.css" /> | ||
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The official Sega Saturn Service Manual and schematics are available via [[Sega Service Manual - Sega Saturn Pal - 1 June 1995|Sega Saturn Service Manual (PDF)]]. | The official Sega Saturn Service Manual and schematics are available via [[Sega Service Manual - Sega Saturn Pal - 1 June 1995|Sega Saturn Service Manual (PDF)]]. | ||
== | == Gallery == | ||
<gallery mode="packed" heights="200"> | <gallery mode="packed" heights="200"> | ||
File:Sega-Saturn-Console-Set-Mk1.png|Sega Saturn Model 1 (Japanese launch) | File:Sega-Saturn-Console-Set-Mk1.png|Sega Saturn Model 1 (Japanese launch) | ||
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</gallery> | </gallery> | ||
== | == Related Pages == | ||
* [[Sega Saturn (Model 1) Maintenance Guide|Sega Saturn (Model 1) General Maintenance]] | * [[Sega Saturn (Model 1) Maintenance Guide|Sega Saturn (Model 1) General Maintenance]] | ||
* [[Sega Saturn (Model 1) Troubleshooting Guide]] | * [[Sega Saturn (Model 1) Troubleshooting Guide]] | ||
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[[Category:Sega Systems]] | [[Category:Sega Systems]] | ||