2600RGB - Video upgrade kit for the Atari 2600



A couple of screen shot photographs can be downloaded here.

This is a modification board for the Atari 2600 which adds audio/video outputs to this console which has only a modulated RF output available normally. It improves the picture quality and makes it easier to connect to modern TV sets that no longer have an analog tuner.

It works in a similar manner to my NESRGB board. That is, it sits between the CPU and TIA (the name of the Atari graphics chip) and stores the data which meant to be written to the TIA palette registers. The TIA is fed with dummy colours instead. The various luma outputs from the TIA, in addition to the colour data stored is then used to create a RGB version of the original video signal. Essentially, the board creates the RGB video signal by bypassing the colour generation logic in the TIA. The video timing is unchanged.

With an extra button installed into the joystick, the user can control the Select and Reset switches, as well as change the palette and pause the console. These extra features are optional, but recommended as it removes the need to sit next to the console (within reach of the reset switch) when playing.

The board may be installed into all models of Atari 2600. The 2600jr model installation is much more difficult than the others because the reduced height of the console makes it impossible to install directly over the TIA spot on the motherboard.

Features:

How to use

The extra button mounted on the joystick can activate three functions.

The palette switch may also be a second button mounted on the Atari. The palette switch performs different functions depending on how long you hold the button down.

Installation Guides

Download the wiring diagram. See the installation guides for specific details.

Where to buy

Buy from etim online shop (Australia/International), etim US distributor section (United States).

For questions and comments please email.
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Change Log
18/7/2015 - Page created.
1/8/2015 - Added four switch guide, how to use, and availability.
25/9/2015 - Added six switch guide, palette switch detail.
30/11/2016 - Added 2600jr guide.