Genesis:32X Model Differences: Difference between revisions

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(The extension piece actually contains pull-down resistors on the data bits, it is *not* empty)
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'''Some page content & researching taken from [https://io55.net/wiki/eop/video_game_consoles-home/4th_generation/sega_genesis_plus_add-ons io55.net's Genesis Add-Ons page] with permission, in collaboration.'''
'''Some page content & researching taken from [https://io55.net/wiki/eop/video_game_consoles-home/4th_generation/sega_genesis_plus_add-ons io55.net's Genesis Add-Ons page] with permission, in collaboration.'''


== Models ==
Note that both 32X revisions have compatibility problems on certain model 1 consoles, [[Genesis:32X_Service_Bulletin_Fixes|which can be corrected]]. Both revisions also have problems with the VA2.3 and VA4 model 2 consoles, for which there is currently no documented fix.


''Models are arranged chronologically. There are no revisions.''
== VA0/MK-84000 (1994-1995) ==


=== VA0/MK-84000 (1994-1995) ===
These 32Xs have some problems with the VA0 model 2. If nothing is plugged into the side expansion slot (typically used by the Sega CD), many 32X games will refuse to work or lock up within minutes. This can largely be fixed on the VA0 model 2 by connecting a Sega CD or using the Extension Unit which came bundled with the 32X. The Extension Unit acts as a terminator on the expansion port and contains pull-down resistors on the data bits (pins A4 through A11 and A13 through A20). This will not fix issues with the 32X on the VA2.3 and VA4 model 2s.


These 32Xs have some problems with certain model 2 revisions, namely the VA0, VA2.3 and VA4. If nothing is plugged into the side expansion slot (typically used by the Sega CD), many 32X games will refuse to work or lock up within minutes. This can largely be fixed on the VA0 model 2 by connecting a Sega CD or using the Extension Unit which came bundled with the 32X. The Extension Unit acts as a terminator on the expansion port and contains pull-down resistors on the data bits (pins A4 through A11 and A13 through A20). However, it does not work with the VA2.3 and VA4.
== VA1/MK-84000A (1995-1996) ==


 
Some of the model 2 compatibility issues were fixed with this revision as it added pull-down resistors on the data bits, eliminating the need for the Extension Unit.  
=== VA1/MK-84000A (1995-1996) ===
 
Some of the model 2 compatibility issues were fixed with this revision. To identify this, just open the cart slot and see if the PCB’s code ends with “A”. Furthermore, these may have a slightly wider cartridge slot, but this needs to be verified with measurements.


== References ==
== References ==

Revision as of 20:23, 27 February 2024

Some page content & researching taken from io55.net's Genesis Add-Ons page with permission, in collaboration.

Note that both 32X revisions have compatibility problems on certain model 1 consoles, which can be corrected. Both revisions also have problems with the VA2.3 and VA4 model 2 consoles, for which there is currently no documented fix.

VA0/MK-84000 (1994-1995)

These 32Xs have some problems with the VA0 model 2. If nothing is plugged into the side expansion slot (typically used by the Sega CD), many 32X games will refuse to work or lock up within minutes. This can largely be fixed on the VA0 model 2 by connecting a Sega CD or using the Extension Unit which came bundled with the 32X. The Extension Unit acts as a terminator on the expansion port and contains pull-down resistors on the data bits (pins A4 through A11 and A13 through A20). This will not fix issues with the 32X on the VA2.3 and VA4 model 2s.

VA1/MK-84000A (1995-1996)

Some of the model 2 compatibility issues were fixed with this revision as it added pull-down resistors on the data bits, eliminating the need for the Extension Unit.

References

https://gametrog.com/sega-32x-information-specs/ (incorrect on version differences, slightly)

https://www.reddit.com/r/SEGA32X/comments/24snek/i_recently_found_one_of_the_mysterious_32x/

https://www.reddit.com/r/SEGA32X/comments/e6qbcj/knuckles_chaotix_issues_with_sega_genesis_model_2/

https://www.reddit.com/r/SEGA32X/comments/9ryglb/question_about_the_32x/

https://www.reddit.com/r/SEGA32X/comments/4m9ol7/sega_32x_model_revision_region_bypass/

https://www.sega-16.com/forum/showthread.php?23611-How-can-you-tell-the-difference-between-the-32x-revisions-and-what-makes-the-2-units