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{{Infobox computer
{{Infobox computer
| name           = Nintendo Entertainment System
| name = Nintendo Entertainment System / Family Computer
| logo           = [[File:NES logo.svg|90px]]
| 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>
| image           = [[File:NES-Console-Set.png|260px|frameless]]
| image = <div style="background-color: white; border: #dadada solid 1px; white-space: nowrap;">
| caption         = Nintendo Entertainment System (top) and Family Computer (bottom)
[[File:NES-Console-Set.png|frameless|Nintendo Entertainment System with controller]]<br />
| developer       = Nintendo R&D2
[[File:Nintendo-Famicom-Console-Set-FL.png|frameless|Nintendo Family Computer]]
| manufacturer   = Nintendo
</div>
| type           = Home video game console
| caption = '''Top:''' NES Control Deck (with detachable controllers)<br />'''Bottom:''' Family Computer ("Famicom") main unit (with hardwired controllers)
| release_date    = {{Start date|1983|07|15}} (JP) / October 18, 1985 (NA) / September 1, 1986 (EU)
| developer = [[Nintendo Research & Development 2|Nintendo R&D2]]
| discontinued   = 1995 (JP/NA) / 1994 (EU)
| manufacturer = [[Nintendo]]
| price           = JP: ¥14,800 / NA: US$179.99 (Control Deck, 1985)
| type = [[Home video game console]]
| cpu             = Ricoh 2A03 (MOS 6502 core) @ 1.79 MHz (NTSC) / Ricoh 2A07 @ 1.66 MHz (PAL)
| release date = {{Video game release
| memory         = 2 KB onboard RAM, 2 KB video RAM
  | JP = {{Start date|1983|07|15}}
| storage         = ROM cartridge (up to 1 MB with mappers)
  | NA = October 18, 1985
| display         = 256×240 px (NTSC), 256×240 px (PAL), 48 colours (25 onscreen)
  | EU = September 1, 1986
| os              = None (game cartridge based)
  | AUS = July 1987
| successor      = [[Super Nintendo Entertainment System]]
}}
| model          = NES-001, HVC-001 (Famicom)
| discontinued = {{Video game release
| image          = [[File:Nintendo-Famicom-Console-Set-FL.png|250px]]
  | JP = September 25, 2003
| caption        = Family Computer (Famicom) main unit (Japan)
  | NA = August 14, 1995
| release date    = 1983 (JP) / 1985 (NA) / 1986 (EU)
  | EU = 1995
| sound           = 5-channel PSG (2 pulse, 1 triangle, 1 noise, 1 DPCM), expansion audio via cartridge
}}
| dimensions     = NES: 25.4 × 20.3 × 7.6 cm; Famicom: 22 × 15 × 6 cm
| price = US$179 (1985, Control Deck set)
| weight         = NES: 1.4 kg; Famicom: 1.2 kg
| cpu = Ricoh 2A03 (NTSC) / 2A07 (PAL), based on MOS Technology 6502 @ 1.79 MHz (NTSC) / 1.66 MHz (PAL)
| predecessor     = [[Color TV-Game]]
| memory = 2 KB onboard RAM, 2 KB video RAM; expandable via cartridge
| codename       = GameCom / AVS
| 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 as the '''Family Computer''' ('''Famicom''') in Japan, is an 8-bit third-generation home video game console developed and manufactured by [[Nintendo]]. Launched in July 1983 (Japan) and October 1985 (North America), the NES revitalised the video game industry after the crash of 1983, introducing iconic franchises and a robust licensing model. Its hardware design, based on a custom MOS 6502 CPU and Picture Processing Unit (PPU), enabled advanced scrolling, sprite handling, and sound for its era.
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 ==
== 🧠 Architecture and Processor ==
The NES is powered by the '''Ricoh 2A03''' microprocessor (NTSC) or '''2A07''' (PAL), both based on the MOS Technology 6502 core, running at 1.79 MHz (NTSC) or 1.66 MHz (PAL). The CPU integrates basic audio circuitry and communicates with the Picture Processing Unit (PPU) for graphics. The Famicom and NES differ slightly in pinout and region lockout, but share the same core architecture.
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.


== 💾 Memory and Storage ==
== 💾 Memory and Storage ==
The system includes '''2 KB of onboard RAM''' (work RAM) and '''2 KB of video RAM''' (VRAM) for the PPU. Game cartridges typically contain ROM (up to 1 MB with memory mappers) and may include additional RAM or custom chips to expand capabilities. Save data is stored via battery-backed SRAM on select cartridges.
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.


== 🖥️ Display and Graphics ==
== 🖥️ Display and Graphics ==
The NES outputs a resolution of '''256×240 pixels''' (NTSC/PAL), displaying up to 25 colours simultaneously from a palette of 54 (NTSC) or 52 (PAL). The PPU supports hardware scrolling, up to 64 sprites (8 per scanline), and tile-based backgrounds. Graphics are generated via pattern tables and attribute tables, with colour emphasis and limited palette effects.
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 ==
== 🔊 Sound Capabilities ==
Audio is generated by a 5-channel programmable sound generator: two pulse wave channels, one triangle wave, one noise channel, and one DPCM channel for sample playback. Some cartridges provide additional sound hardware (e.g., VRC6, FDS) for expanded audio, especially on the Famicom.
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 ==
== 🎮 Input/Output and Expansion ==
The NES features two controller ports (7-pin proprietary), a 72-pin cartridge slot (60-pin on Famicom), RF/composite AV output, and a rear expansion port (unused outside Japan). The Famicom includes a microphone on controller II and a bottom expansion slot for peripherals (e.g., Disk System, keyboard).
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 ==
== 🧰 General Maintenance ==
NES consoles are prone to connector wear (ZIF cartridge slot), requiring cleaning or replacement for reliable operation. Power supplies and AV cables are user-replaceable. Famicom units may require periodic cleaning of hardwired controller contacts.
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 ==
== 🧾 PCB Schematics & Service Guide ==
Official service manuals and schematics are available for both NES and Famicom models, detailing motherboard layouts, pinouts, and common failure points (e.g., 72-pin connector, voltage regulators).
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.


=== 📷 Motherboard Images ===
=== 📷 Motherboard Images ===
* [[File:NES-Motherboard-Front.jpg|thumb|NES motherboard (front)]]
<gallery>
* [[File:Famicom-Motherboard.jpg|thumb|Famicom motherboard (Japan)]]
File:NES-CPU-01-Motherboard.jpg|NES-001 (front-loader) motherboard
File:Nintendo-Famicom-Motherboard.jpg|Famicom HVC-CPU-07 motherboard
</gallery>


== 📚 Technical Documentation ==
== 📚 Technical Documentation ==
* [https://nesdev.org/wiki/NES_reference_guide NESdev Wiki – NES Reference Guide]
* [https://nesdev.org/wiki/NES_reference_guide NESdev Wiki: NES Reference Guide]
* [https://wiki.nesdev.org/ NESdev Technical Wiki]
* [https://www.nesdev.org/ NESdev.org]
* [https://www.nintendo.co.jp/clv/manuals/en/pdf/CLV-S-NESYX.pdf Official NES Classic Edition Manual (PDF)]
* [https://console5.com/wiki/Nintendo_NES Console5: NES Service Information]


== 📷 Gallery ==
== 📷 Gallery ==
<gallery>
<gallery>
File:NES-Console-Set.png|NES Control Deck with controller
File:NES-Console-Set.png|Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) with controller
File:Nintendo-Famicom-Console-Set-FL.png|Family Computer (Famicom) main unit
File:Nintendo-Famicom-Console-Set-FL.png|Family Computer (Famicom) main unit
File:NES-Controller.jpg|NES controller
File:NES-Controller.jpg|NES controller
File:Famicom-Controller.jpg|Famicom controllers (hardwired)
File:Famicom-Controllers.jpg|Famicom controllers (I & II)
</gallery>
</gallery>


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* [[Famicom Disk System]]
* [[Famicom Disk System]]
* [[List of NES games]]
* [[List of NES games]]
* [[Nintendo hardware]]
* [[Nintendo]]
* [[Video game console]]


== General Maintenance ==
== General Maintenance ==
See [[#🧰 General Maintenance|General Maintenance]] above.
See [[#🧰 General Maintenance|above]].


== PCB Schematics & Service Manual ==
== PCB Schematics & Service Manual ==
See [[#🧾 PCB Schematics & Service Guide|PCB Schematics & Service Guide]] above.
See [[#🧾 PCB Schematics & Service Guide|above]].


=== Apple Service Manual ===
=== Apple Service Manual ===
''Not applicable to NES hardware.''
''Not applicable to NES.''


=== Logic Board & Analog Board Schematics ===
=== Logic Board & Analog Board Schematics ===
* [https://console5.com/wiki/Nintendo_NES_Schematics Console5: NES Schematics]
See [[#🧾 PCB Schematics & Service Guide|above]].
* [https://console5.com/wiki/Famicom_Schematics Console5: Famicom Schematics]
 
== Capacitor Replacement Guide ==
Capacitor failure is uncommon but may occur in ageing units. Standard electrolytic capacitors (e.g., 220µF, 10V) are used in power filtering and AV circuits. Refer to service manuals for values and replacement procedures.
 
== Retrobrite ==
Yellowing of NES/Famicom plastic cases can be reversed using retrobrite techniques (hydrogen peroxide and UV light). Care should be taken to avoid overexposure and warping.
 
== Troubleshooting ==
* Common issues: blinking red power LED, "fl


{{Navbox-AppleVintage}}
==

Revision as of 14:23, 4 May 2025





Specifications
Manufacturer
Type
CPU
Memory
Storage
Display
Sound
OS / Firmware
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 R&D2
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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

📷 Motherboard Images

📚 Technical Documentation

  • 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)

General Maintenance

See above.

PCB Schematics & Service Manual

See above.

Apple Service Manual

Not applicable to NES.

Logic Board & Analog Board Schematics

See above.

==

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