Atari 2600

Atari 2600 · 1977

Overview

Atari’s Video Computer System, released around September 1977 and later branded the Atari 2600, popularized interchangeable ROM cartridges and joystick/paddle home play.

Technical specifications

Manufacturer: Atari
Platform: Atari 2600
Revision: VCS / 2600
Storage: ROM cartridge
Released: 1977-09-11
Discontinued: 1992-01-01
CPU: MOS Technology 6507 @ 1.19 MHz
GPU: Atari TIA (Television Interface Adaptor)
Memory: 128 bytes RAM

Collector note

Originally sold as the Atari Video Computer System (VCS); renamed Atari 2600 when the 5200 launched. Early “Heavy Sixer” / “Light Sixer” six-switch woodgrain models precede four-switch and Jr. revisions. Launch bundles included joysticks, paddles, and a pack-in cart (Combat, later often Pac-Man).

Facts

Released c. September 1977 as the Atari Video Computer System.
CPU: MOS 6507 @ 1.19 MHz; graphics/audio via TIA; 128 bytes RAM.
Media: interchangeable ROM cartridges.
Renamed Atari 2600 around the 5200’s 1982 launch.
Line discontinued in 1992 (year-level).

Related consoles

Atari 2600 Jr. · Atari 2600Later compact 2600 Jr. revision
Atari 5200 · Atari 5200Higher-end 1982 complement (5200)
Atari 7800 · Atari 7800Successor with 2600 compatibility (7800)

Sources

Atari 2600 · Wikipedia

Collector Comments

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