The Atari 5200, released in 1982, was a powerful competitor to the Intellivision console, boasting improved graphics and sound capabilities. While it may not have reached the same level of popularity as its rival, the Atari 5200 remains a beloved retro gaming console among enthusiasts. But have you ever wondered, how much does an Atari 5200 weigh? In this article, we’ll delve into the history of the console, its design and construction, and finally, reveal the answer to this burning question.
A Brief History of the Atari 5200
The Atari 5200, code-named “Pam” during development, was designed to be a higher-end alternative to the Atari 2600. Launched in 1982, it was positioned as a more advanced console, capable of delivering better graphics and sound quality. The 5200 was initially released with a price tag of $269, which was relatively expensive for a console at the time.
One of the key features that set the 5200 apart from its predecessor was its ability to play Atari 2600 games, with the use of an adapter. This made it an attractive option for gamers who had already invested in a library of 2600 titles. The 5200 also introduced new controllers with analog joysticks, which provided a more precise gaming experience.
Despite its promising launch, the Atari 5200 ultimately failed to gain significant market share. The console suffered from a limited game library, and poor marketing efforts, which led to its discontinuation in 1984.
Design and Construction of the Atari 5200
The Atari 5200’s design was a significant departure from its predecessors. The console boasted a sleek, futuristic design, with a wedge-shaped body and a distinctive angular shape. Measuring 13 inches wide, 10 inches deep, and 3 inches tall, the 5200 was a substantial console, both in terms of size and weight.
The console’s casing was made from a combination of plastic and metal, with a substantial amount of weight coming from the internal components. The power supply, in particular, was a significant contributor to the console’s overall weight.
The 5200’s controllers, which were designed to be more ergonomic than their 2600 counterparts, were also heavier due to the addition of analog joysticks and buttons.
Components and Materials Used
To better understand the weight of the Atari 5200, let’s take a closer look at the components and materials used in its construction.
- Motherboard: The 5200’s motherboard was a complex piece of hardware, featuring a range of components, including the 8-bit 6502C processor, 16KB of RAM, and 32KB of ROM. The motherboard itself was a substantial component, contributing to the console’s overall weight.
- Power Supply: The power supply unit (PSU) was a significant component in the 5200’s design. It was a linear power supply, which was heavier and less efficient than modern switch-mode power supplies.
- Casing: The console’s casing was made from a combination of plastic and metal. The plastic parts were injection-molded, while the metal components, such as the heatsinks and screws, added to the console’s overall weight.
How Much Does an Atari 5200 Weigh?
So, after all this lead-up, you’re probably wondering, how much does an Atari 5200 weigh? The answer is…
- Approximately 4.5 pounds (2.04 kilograms)
Yes, you read that correctly! The Atari 5200 weighs in at around 4.5 pounds, making it a substantial console, especially when compared to modern gaming systems.
It’s worth noting that this weight can vary slightly, depending on the specific model and region of the console. Some variants, such as the Atari 5200 “II” model, may be slightly lighter or heavier due to design changes.
Comparison to Other Consoles
To put the Atari 5200’s weight into perspective, let’s compare it to other consoles:
| Console | Weight (pounds) |
| — | — |
| Atari 2600 | 2.5 |
| Intellivision | 3.5 |
| Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) | 2.5 |
| Sega Master System | 2.2 |
As you can see, the Atari 5200 is one of the heavier consoles of its era, with only the Intellivision coming close in terms of weight.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Atari 5200’s weight is a testament to its complexity and design. While it may not be as sleek and lightweight as modern consoles, the 5200’s bulk is a reflection of its ambitious design and innovative features.
For retro gaming enthusiasts, the Atari 5200’s weight is a reminder of the console’s rich history and its importance in the evolution of gaming technology.
So, the next time you dust off your Atari 5200, take a moment to appreciate its solid construction and substantial weight – it’s a true retro gaming icon!
What was the Atari 5200 supposed to be?
The Atari 5200 was intended to be a major upgrade to the extremely popular Atari 2600 console. It was designed to compete with the Intellivision console and offer improved graphics, sound, and gameplay. The 5200 was meant to be a more powerful and feature-rich console that would appeal to a wider audience and cement Atari’s position as a leader in the home video game market.
Despite its promising specs, the 5200 ultimately failed to live up to its potential. The console suffered from a number of flaws, including a problematic controller, limited game selection, and poor compatibility with 2600 games. These issues, combined with the arrival of new competitors like the Commodore 64 and the ColecoVision, ultimately led to the 5200’s downfall.
What were some of the key features of the Atari 5200?
The Atari 5200 boasted an impressive set of features for its time, including a 6502C CPU, 16 KB of RAM, and a custom graphics processing unit (GPU) capable of producing high-resolution graphics and smooth animation. The console also came with a unique controller featuring a numeric keypad, joystick, and Start, Pause, and Reset buttons. Additionally, the 5200 supported analog audio and was capable of producing high-quality sound effects and music.
Despite these impressive specs, the 5200’s controller was often criticized for its awkward design and lack of precision. The numeric keypad, which was intended to provide an intuitive way to input game data, was often underutilized and ended up feeling like a gimmick. Moreover, the console’s GPU, while powerful, was not fully utilized by many games, which often featured poor graphics and limited animation.
Why did the Atari 5200 fail?
There were several factors that contributed to the Atari 5200’s failure. One major issue was the console’s incompatibility with Atari 2600 games, which alienated many loyal fans of the earlier console. Additionally, the 5200’s controller was problematic, with a poorly designed joystick and an underutilized numeric keypad. The console’s game selection was also limited, with many titles being mere ports of 2600 games rather than original creations.
Another significant factor was the intense competition in the market at the time. The Commodore 64 and ColecoVision consoles were both released around the same time as the 5200, and they offered more features and better value for the price. The 5200’s high price point and lack of innovative games further contributed to its decline. By the time Atari re-released the 5200 with improved controllers and compatibility with 2600 games, it was too little, too late, and the console was ultimately discontinued.
What was the impact of the Atari 5200’s failure?
The Atari 5200’s failure had significant repercussions for Atari and the video game industry as a whole. The failure of the 5200 led to a decline in Atari’s market share and profits, ultimately contributing to the company’s financial downfall. The episode also marked a shift in the industry’s focus towards more powerful and feature-rich consoles, paving the way for the development of 8-bit and 16-bit consoles like the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) and Sega Master System.
Moreover, the failure of the 5200 served as a cautionary tale for console manufacturers, highlighting the importance of backwards compatibility, innovative game design, and competitive pricing. The episode also led to a more cautious approach to console development, with manufacturers focusing on iterative improvements rather than revolutionary changes.
Can I still play Atari 5200 games today?
Yes, you can still play Atari 5200 games today, albeit with some effort. The easiest way is to use an emulator, which can mimic the 5200’s hardware on a modern computer or mobile device. There are several emulator options available, including the popular Atari800 emulator. With an emulator, you can play 5200 games using a keyboard or controller, albeit with some limitations.
Alternatively, you can hunt down original 5200 hardware and games, although this can be a more challenging and expensive proposition. Many retro gaming enthusiasts still collect and play original 5200 consoles and games, and there are online communities and forums dedicated to the subject. You can also try your luck at local thrift stores, garage sales, or online marketplaces, although be prepared to deal with potential hardware issues and high prices.
Are there any notable games for the Atari 5200?
Despite its limited library, the Atari 5200 has a few notable games worth mentioning. One of the most iconic titles is “Defender,” a space-themed shooter that showcased the console’s capabilities. Another popular game is “Pitfall!,” a platformer that was ported from the Atari 2600 but featured improved graphics and sound.
Other notable games include “Moon Patrol,” a scrolling shooter with impressive graphics, and “Countermeasure,” a strategy game that was one of the few titles to fully utilize the 5200’s controller features. While these games are not as well-known as some of the classics on other consoles, they remain interesting curiosities for retro gaming enthusiasts.
Is the Atari 5200 still relevant today?
Despite being released over 40 years ago, the Atari 5200 remains relevant in the retro gaming community. The console’s unique design, flawed but fascinating controller, and limited but interesting game library continue to inspire curiosity and nostalgia. The 5200’s failures and successes also serve as important lessons for console manufacturers, game designers, and enthusiasts alike.
Moreover, the 5200’s legacy can be seen in modern console design, with many contemporary controllers featuring similar layout and functionality. The 5200’s emphasis on analog audio and high-quality sound effects also paved the way for modern gaming’s focus on immersive audio experiences. While the 5200 may not be a major player in the modern gaming landscape, its influence can be felt in subtle but significant ways.