Dina (console)
 | This article needs additional citations for verification. (April 2015) |
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| Manufacturer | Bit Corporation |
|---|---|
| Type | Video game console |
| Generation | Third generation |
| Release date | 1986 |
| Media | ROM cartridge |
| CPU | Zilog Z80 |
| Graphics | TMS9928A |
The Dina, also known in Taiwan as the Chuang Zao Zhe 50(Chinese:創造者 50),[1] is a home video game console of the third generation originally manufactured by Bit Corporation, later sold in the United States by Telegames as the Telegames Personal Arcade.[2] It is a clone of both the ColecoVision and Sega SG-1000 consoles, with one cartridge slot for each platform, and came bundled with the game Meteoric Shower, which was built into the system.[2] Telegames never advertised its compatibility with the SG-1000.[citation needed]
Hardware[edit]
The Dina's controllers are modeled after the D-pad style made famous by the Nintendo Entertainment System. Since the controllers are too small to possess numeric keypads, a single numeric keypad is present on the console itself. The console is not compatible with all ColecoVision cartridges, partly from its lack of a second numeric keypad; any ColecoVision game that requires two keypads cannot be used. A difference in the Dina's controller wiring prevents use of Coleco's Roller Controller and Super Action Controllers and games dependent on either one.[1] Expansion modules for the ColecoVision are also incompatible, as the expansion port uses the pin configuration of the SG-1000. Subsequently, ColecoVision games that rely on expansion modules cannot be used, but the machine is compatible with the SG-1000 keyboard.
The Telegames Personal Arcade was advertised as an alternative to the ColecoVision, leaving the function of the Sega SG-1000 cartridge port unexplained. Despite this, SG-1000 games are completely functional. The console does not have a port for the Sega My Card games, but the "Sega Card Catcher" peripheral is compatible and allows for Sega My Card games to be played.[3]
Software[edit]
The Dina came with the game Meteoric Shower built into the unit.[1] The ColecoVision's boot screen is replaced with Japanese writing and the words "1986 BIT CORPORATION" on a green background.
References[edit]
- ^ a b c "Chuang Zao Zhe 50". Archived from the original on 18 April 2015. Retrieved 18 April 2015.
- ^ a b "The ColecoVision Clones". Retrieved 18 April 2015.
- ^ Vinciguerra, Robert. "DINA 2-in-One Console Review". The Rev. Rob Times. Retrieved 29 December 2013.
External links[edit]
- Database entry at The Video Game Kraken (Accurately compiled website)