Motherboard
Tools
These are some common tools used to work on this device. You might not need every tool for every procedure.
Background and Identification
The Sega Master System is a third-generation 8-bit home video game console manufactured by Sega, a Japanese multinational video game developer and publisher. The Sega Master System was originally a remodeled export version of the Sega Mark III, which was the third iteration of the SG-100 series of video game consoles and was released in Japan in 1985. The Sega Master System featured enhanced graphical capabilities over its predecessors. The Sega Master System launched in 1986 in North America, 1989 in Europe, and 1989 in Brazil. In 1987, a Japanese model of the Master System was launched with enhancements over the export models including a built-in F audio chip, a rapid-fire switch, and a dedicated port for the 3D glasses. The Master System II was released in 1990 as a less expensive model in North America and Europe.
The Master System II was designed to cut costs and draw in more buyers in the U.S. market. Sega removed the card slot in the Master System II which meant users could not play Sega Card games or use the 3D glasses. The audio/video output and reset button were removed along with the Expansion port. Due to poor sales, Sega withdrew the Master System II from the American market in 1992.
Technical Specifications
Manufacturer: Sega
Type: Home video game console
Generation: Third generation
Release date:
- JP: October 20, 1985 (Mark III)
- NA: September 1986
- JP: October 1987
- EU: June 1987
Lifespan:
- BR: 1989–present
- JP: 1985–91
- NA: 1986–92
- EU: 1987–96
Introductory price:
- JP¥16,800
- US$200
- GB£99
Units sold:
- Worldwide: 10–13 million (not including recent Brazil figures)
- Japan: 1 million (as of 1986)
- United States: 2 million (as of 1993)
- Europe: 6.8 million (estimated as of December 1993)
Media: ROM cartridge, Sega Card
CPU: Zilog Z80A @ 4 MHz
Memory: 8 kB RAM, 16 kB VRAM
Display: 256 × 192 resolution, 32 colors on-screen
Sound: Yamaha VDP PSG(SN76489), Yamaha YM2413
Backward compatibility: SG-1000
Predecessor: SG-1000
Successor: Sega Genesis