Atari 5200:Atari 5200 Mods Wiki



The Atari 5200 SuperSystem is an 8-bit console from the second generation of video game consoles. The console was launched in the United States in November 1982. Based on the Atari 8-bit computer line, the Atari 5200 had fairly powerful hardware for the era, but the lack of backwards compatibility with Atari 2600 games at launch and its unreliable controller wound up hampering it in the end, and it was formally discontinued in February 1984 after less than two years on the market. Despite this, the 5200 had a few last games trickle out during 1986 as well as a low-key rerelease (mainly done by Atari to eliminate excess inventory) during the mid 1980s.

Two models of the Atari 5200 exist: the original "4-port" model and a later "2-port" model which removed two controller ports that were rarely utilized. The 2-port model is compatible with a 2600 game adapter to play 2600 games on the 5200 and the 4-port model can be modded to support it as well. The 4-port Atari 5200 has a rather unique cable setup where both power and RF audio/video is transmitted on a single hardwired cable using an Atari 5200-specific automatic switchbox.

General Information

 * Atari_5200:Creating Game Backups
 * Atari_5200:Playing Game Backups
 * Applying ROM Patches
 * Atari_5200:Homebrew Games List

Technical Information

 * [[Media:Atari CX 5200 Field Service Manual.pdf|Atari 5200 Service Manual]]
 * [[Media:Atari CX55 Service Manual.pdf|VCS Cartridge Adaptor Service Manual]]
 * Model Differences
 * Atari_5200:Obtaining BIOS ROM
 * Atari_5200:Connector Pinouts
 * Atari 5200:Game Compatibility List

General Mods

 * Atari_5200:Bypassing the Switchbox (4-port)
 * VCS Cartridge Adaptor Modification

Video Mods

 *  Atari_5200:Video Output Notes
 *  Atari_5200:SOPHIA Board (RGB and DVI mod)
 *  Atari_5200:S-Video Mod
 *  Atari_5200:Composite Mod
 * Atari 5200:Ultimate Atari Video Mod (UAV) Board

Repair Guides

 * Atari 5200:Controller Repair
 * Game Cartridge / Connector Cleaning
 * Replacing Capacitors