
Game Console
Video Computer 4000
Made in Germany, the Interton Video Computer 4000 was part of the second generation of game consoles. Instead of built-in games, it used cartridges—similar to the Atari 2600. Players could enjoy simple sports, racing, and action games with its distinctive paddle controllers. While not widely known outside Europe, it was an important step in bringing cartridge-based gaming into homes.
The Interton Video Computer 4000 (officially abbreviated as Interton VC 4000) is an 8-bit ROM cartridge-based second-generation home video game console that was released in Germany, England, France, Spain, Austria, the Netherlands and Australia in 1978 by German hearing aid manufacturer Interton. The console is quite obscure outside Germany, but many software-compatible systems can be found in numerous European countries (see versions of the 1292 Advanced Programmable Video System). The console is the successor of the Interton Video 3001 and was sold for 298 Deutsche Mark and discontinued in 1983.
It is unknown if Interton designed and produced the Interton VC 4000 within their own rights, or if they were sold the rights to design and produce it. This is because many other foreign brands have produced “clones” of this system in the preceding years.
The Interton VC 4000’s power comes from a Signetics 2650 CPU (which is the same as an Arcadia 2001) and a Signetics 2636 gaming video controller. Both controllers contain a 12-button keypad, two fire buttons, and a joystick. Inside the systems control panel, there are four different buttons: the ON/OFF switch, RESET, SELECT, and START.
Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Interton_Video_Computer_4000
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Short Info
Also known as: Interton VC 4000 (abbreviation)
Manufacturer: Interton
Type: Home video game console
Generation: Second generation
Release date: 1978; 47 years ago
Introductory price: DM 298 (equivalent to DM 380.69 in 2021)
Discontinued: 1983
Units sold: Unknown
Units shipped: Unknown
CPU Signetics: 2650A
Removable storage: Cartridges
Graphics: Signetics 2636 video controller
Input: 2 controllers with 12 buttons, 2 fire buttons and an analog joystick
Online services: None
Weight: Unknown
Best-selling game: Unknown
Predecessor: Interton Video 3001
Successor: None
Related: 1292 Advanced Programmable Video System