TG16:TurboGrafx-16 Model Differences

Page content & researching taken from io55.net's TurboGrafx-16 page with permission, in collaboration.

Content is very limited and may not be accurate! If you know a lot about TurboGrafx-16 models and revisions, we would highly appreciate your contribution.

Models

Models are arranged chronologically. There are no revisions.

PC Engine (1987-1989)

The original version of the PC Engine/TurboGrafx-16 hardware, released on October 30, 1987 in Japan. It is a small, white-colored console dominated by the HuCard slot on the top front. Each side of the console has a different connection, with the single mini-DIN controller port at the front, power input on the left, RF out on the right and a large expansion port on the rear.

TurboGrafx-16 (1989-1991)

The original USA version of the PC Engine, branded as the TurboGrafx-16 and released in 1989. This is the vastly more common version of the TurboGrafx-16 hardware in the USA. Like its Japanese counterpart, it requires certain add-ons (i.e. TurboTap for multiple players, TurboBooster Plus for AV output and saving) to fully experience certain games. It is recognizable by its obvious lack of a CD drive, plus a large HuCard/TurboChip recess on the top right. The console has a large expansion port on the back, that is largely identical to the Japanese PC Engine expansion port (the pinout is identical but the shape is slightly different). Only has RF out and only one controller port, much like the original PC Engine. For the controller port, NEC used a full-size DIN connector for the TurboGrafx as opposed to the mini-DIN used on the PC Engine. It is also about double the length of a PC Engine; this was done in order for the console to meet FCC requirements, as the console has extensive RF shielding and a redesigned main board which isolates much of the digital circuitry from the analog side.

PC Engine Duo/TurboDuo (1991-1993)

Feature-wise, one could say this is the ultimate TurboGrafx-16. While still a “version” of the TurboGrafx, the TurboDuo practically crams 3 addons into one device. This console can be easily recognized by it’s all black finish and it’s CD tray. Included is the functions of the original TurboGrafx-16, the functions of the TurboGrafx-CD, an updated BIOS for Super CD discs, more RAM, and a smaller controller port (identical to Japanese controller ports). Said smaller port requires an adapter for peripherals tailored for the larger port of the original TurboGrafx-16. The one lost feature is the expansion port, which cannot be found on this console.

References

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/TurboDuo

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/TurboGrafx-16

https://www.racketboy.com/retro/tubrografix-16-tg16-101-beginners-guide