8051 - BASED VIDEO ARCADE SYSTEM
An arcade-style home entertainment system Built around a single-chip 8051 microcontroller.
Why did I do this? I guess it was a test to see just what could be done (and at what cost) with
one small but very useful piece of hardware. Back in late 2002, while I was experimenting
with video circuits, I thought of the possibility of making a video games console, but I
wanted to try and include as many sprites as possible (managed to get 17 into the below example -
including the bullet). After doing some checking, I stumbled across www.rickard.gunee.com
and was impressed by his work involving the PIC micro. However, I was thoroughly used
to programming in 8051 code, so I decided try and create my own unique
console - but based on a tiny 8051.
After many hours of work - here it is (see below):
Figure 1.) The completed (rough) VGC prototype - about actual size
Figure 2: I think i got the hang of it...
Figure 3: oh well, better luck next time!
BASIC SPECIFICATIONS:
Graphics Mode (SCART output): 100 x 64 @ up to 512 selectable colors
Graphics Mode (RCA output): 100 x 64 @ up to 512 shades of grey
Sound capability: 'beep' capable (not yet implemented)
MCU: 89C2051 running @ 24MHz
Power: 9Vdc @ 100mA
Video generator: Up to 18 memory-mapped animated sprites.
Video Output: PAL B/W (RCA) or R.G.B. Color (SCART) outputs
Watch a short video clip of the VGC in action!!! CLICK HERE
Note: This site is still under construction.