Dina (video game console)

Dina
Manufacturer Bit Corporation
Type Video game console
Generation Second generation
Release date 1986 (1986)
Media ROM cartridge
CPU Zilog Z80
Graphics TMS9928A

The Dina, also known in Taiwan as the Chuang Zao Zhe 50,[1] is a video game console 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 the 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.

Hardware

The Dina's controllers are modeled after the D-pads made famous by the Nintendo Entertainment System. The cables connecting the system are attached to the side of the controllers, making them difficult to grasp comfortably. Since the controllers are too small to possess numeric keypads, a single numeric keypad is present on the console itself. 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]

The Dina does not include the ColecoVision expansion module interface; ColecoVision games that rely on expansion modules cannot be used. The console is not compatible with all ColecoVision cartridges, partly from its lack of a second numeric keypad. Expansion modules for the ColecoVision are also incompatible, as the expansion port is of a completely different pinout and shape. Some units possess a manufacturer's defect that causes the system to draw too much power into the motherboard, causing damage after long-term play.

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

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.

Compatibility issues

Hardware incompatibility

Keypad-intensive games


References

  1. 1 2 3 "Chuang Zao Zhe 50". Retrieved 18 April 2015.
  2. 1 2 "The ColecoVision Clones.". Retrieved 18 April 2015.
  3. ↑ Vinciguerra, Robert. "DINA 2-in-One Console Review". The Rev. Rob Times. Retrieved 29 December 2013.
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