Sega AI Computer
The Sega AI Computer (AIセガコンピュータ) is a home computer launched by Sega in 1986. It was released in Japan only, with plans to be released in North America under the name Sega DI 8300. Its purpose was to be used in schools, and thus featured only edutainment software. The computer used a large rectangular touchpad that was customizable via custom overlays bundled with most of its programs.
Technical specifications
- CPU: 16-bit NEC V20 at 5 MHz
- ROM: 512 KB total (as actually found in system)
- 2x64 KB system ROM ("Operating System, Prolog")
- 1x128 KB character ROM
- 2x128 KB speech ROM
- RAM: 128 KB
- Software on Sega My Cards (128 KB to 256 KB).
- Software on audio cassettes.
- Video : Yamaha V9938 (Resolution 256x212) with 64 KB VRAM.
- Sound: SN76489 PSG
- Inputs: Touch surface with overlays, 8-directions pad + 3 buttons.
- Inputs: Microphone input.
- Inputs/Outputs: a RS232 Centronics port
- Cassette drive : 9.6 kb/s.
- Optional keyboard peripheral.
- Optional Sound Box peripheral with a YM2151 FM chip.
Emulation
It was emulated in 2024 by the M.E.S.S. emulator.
Software
There are 22 known releases.