Sega Saturn (Model 2): Difference between revisions
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The '''Sega Saturn (Model 2)''' is a 32-bit fifth-generation home video game console developed by Sega. Released in Japan in late 1994 and internationally in 1995, the Saturn is renowned for its advanced dual-CPU architecture and powerful 2D and 3D graphics capabilities, making it a favourite among retro gaming enthusiasts. | The '''Sega Saturn (Model 2)''' is a 32-bit fifth-generation home video game console developed by Sega. Released in Japan in late 1994 and internationally in 1995, the Saturn is renowned for its advanced dual-CPU architecture and powerful 2D and 3D graphics capabilities, making it a favourite among retro gaming enthusiasts. | ||
== | == Architecture and Processor == | ||
The Sega Saturn is powered by a complex, parallel-processing architecture designed to excel at both 2D sprite manipulation and 3D polygonal graphics. Its main processing components include: | |||
* '''Dual Hitachi SH-2 32-bit RISC CPUs''' running at 28.6 MHz, operating in parallel for increased performance. | * '''Dual Hitachi SH-2 32-bit RISC CPUs''' running at 28.6 MHz, operating in parallel for increased performance. | ||
* '''Hitachi SH-1''' as the CD-ROM controller. | * '''Hitachi SH-1''' as the CD-ROM controller. | ||
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This architecture allowed for advanced graphical effects, but also posed programming challenges due to its complexity. | This architecture allowed for advanced graphical effects, but also posed programming challenges due to its complexity. | ||
== | == Memory and Storage == | ||
The Saturn Model 2 features a diverse memory map optimised for graphics and sound: | The Saturn Model 2 features a diverse memory map optimised for graphics and sound: | ||
* '''2 MB main RAM''' | * '''2 MB main RAM''' | ||
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Storage is provided by a '''2× speed CD-ROM drive''', supporting up to 640 MB per disc. Game saves are stored in internal backup RAM or on external RAM cartridges. | Storage is provided by a '''2× speed CD-ROM drive''', supporting up to 640 MB per disc. Game saves are stored in internal backup RAM or on external RAM cartridges. | ||
== | == Display and Graphics == | ||
The Saturn's graphics subsystem is built around its dual VDPs: | The Saturn's graphics subsystem is built around its dual VDPs: | ||
* '''Resolution:''' 320×224 to 704×480 pixels (interlaced and non-interlaced modes) | * '''Resolution:''' 320×224 to 704×480 pixels (interlaced and non-interlaced modes) | ||
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Hardware support for both 2D and 3D graphics made the Saturn especially strong for arcade-style and sprite-based games. | Hardware support for both 2D and 3D graphics made the Saturn especially strong for arcade-style and sprite-based games. | ||
== | == Sound Capabilities == | ||
Audio on the Saturn is powered by the '''Yamaha YMF292-F (SCSP)''' sound processor: | Audio on the Saturn is powered by the '''Yamaha YMF292-F (SCSP)''' sound processor: | ||
* '''32 sound channels''' supporting PCM and ADPCM playback | * '''32 sound channels''' supporting PCM and ADPCM playback | ||
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This robust sound system enabled high-quality music and effects, including streaming audio from CD. | This robust sound system enabled high-quality music and effects, including streaming audio from CD. | ||
== | == Input/Output and Expansion == | ||
The Saturn Model 2 offers a wide range of connectivity and expansion options: | The Saturn Model 2 offers a wide range of connectivity and expansion options: | ||
* '''Controller ports:''' 2 × proprietary 9-pin connectors (supporting digital and analogue pads, multitap) | * '''Controller ports:''' 2 × proprietary 9-pin connectors (supporting digital and analogue pads, multitap) | ||
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* '''Power:''' Internal PSU (100–240 V, region dependent) | * '''Power:''' Internal PSU (100–240 V, region dependent) | ||
== | == PCB Schematics & Service Manual == | ||
<templatestyles src="Template:StyledTable/styles.css" /> | <templatestyles src="Template:StyledTable/styles.css" /> | ||
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* For detailed board layouts and service procedures, refer to the [[Sega Service Manual - Sega Saturn Pal - 1 June 1995|Sega Saturn Service Manual]]. | * For detailed board layouts and service procedures, refer to the [[Sega Service Manual - Sega Saturn Pal - 1 June 1995|Sega Saturn Service Manual]]. | ||
== | == Gallery == | ||
<gallery mode="packed" heights="180"> | <gallery mode="packed" heights="180"> | ||
File:Sega-Saturn-Console-Set-Mk2.jpg|Sega Saturn Model 2 | File:Sega-Saturn-Console-Set-Mk2.jpg|Sega Saturn Model 2 | ||
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</gallery> | </gallery> | ||
== | == Related Pages == | ||
* [[Sega Saturn (Model 2) Maintenance Guide|Sega Saturn (Model 2) General Maintenance]] | * [[Sega Saturn (Model 2) Maintenance Guide|Sega Saturn (Model 2) General Maintenance]] | ||
* [[Sega Saturn (Model 2) Troubleshooting Guide]] | * [[Sega Saturn (Model 2) Troubleshooting Guide]] | ||