MSX-3

MSX2

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Codename
Also known as
Developer	ASCII Corporation, Microsoft
Manufacturer
Product family
Type	Home computer
Generation	8-bit
Release date	1985
Availability
Lifespan

The MSX2 is a standardized home computer architecture, an enhancement of the original MSX system. It was released in 1985 by ASCII Corporation and Microsoft, aiming to improve upon the capabilities of the original MSX standard. The MSX2 introduced several new features and improvements, making it a more powerful and versatile platform for both gaming and productivity applications.

Technical Specifications

The MSX2 standard brought several enhancements over its predecessor, including:

Processor

• The MSX2 typically used the Zilog Z80 processor, running at a clock speed of 3.58 MHz.

Memory

• The standard memory configuration was 64 KB of RAM, with some models offering up to 128 KB or more.
• 16 KB of VRAM was standard, expandable to 128 KB, which was a significant improvement over the original MSX.

Graphics

• The MSX2 featured improved graphics capabilities with the Video Display Processor (VDP) Yamaha V9938.
• Supported screen modes included:

 * Screen 5: 256×212 pixels with 16 colors out of a palette of 512.
 * Screen 6: 512×212 pixels with 4 colors.
 * Screen 7: 512×212 pixels with 16 colors.
 * Screen 8: 256×212 pixels with 256 colors.

• Hardware sprites and scrolling were enhanced, allowing for more complex and visually appealing games.

Sound

• The MSX2 used the AY-3-8910 sound chip, providing 3 channels of sound.
• Some models included additional sound capabilities, such as the FM-PAC (FM sound expansion).

Storage

• The MSX2 supported floppy disk drives, which were a common storage medium for software distribution and data storage.
• Cassette tapes were also used, though less frequently as the floppy disk became more prevalent.

Software

The MSX2 was compatible with most software developed for the original MSX, while also supporting new software that took advantage of its enhanced capabilities. Popular software categories included:

• Video games: The MSX2 was home to many popular games, including titles from Konami, Hudson Soft, and other major developers.
• Productivity software: Word processors, spreadsheets, and other business applications were available, making the MSX2 a versatile machine for home and office use.
• Educational software: A variety of educational programs were developed, catering to different age groups and subjects.

Legacy

The MSX2 was succeeded by the MSX2+ and later the MSX Turbo R, each offering further enhancements. Despite its eventual decline in the face of more advanced computing platforms, the MSX2 remains a beloved system among retro computing enthusiasts.

Also see

• MSX
• MSX2+
• MSX Turbo R
• Zilog Z80
• Yamaha V9938
• Home computer