SVI-838 explained

Type:	personal computer
Released:	1986
Processor:	Intel 8088 @ 4.77 MHz
Memory:	256 KB (+128 KB VRAM) - 640 KB (max.)
Os:	MS-DOS 2.11 / CP/M-86
Aka:	X'press 16
Manufacturer:	Spectravideo
Graphics:	CGA, Yamaha V9938
Sound:	AY-3-8910
Memory Card:	Cartridge, disc drive

The SVI-838, also known as X'press 16, is the last microcomputer produced by Spectravideo (at Hong Kong). Although it was a PC clone, it had the standard sound and video coprocessors of the MSX2, making it a hybrid system.^[1] The sales were unimpressive and it is now considered a collectible.

With a SVI-811 adapter, the machine could run MSX1 programs in cartridge.^[1]

Technical specifications

The SVI-838 had the following technical specifications:

• CPU: Intel 8088 @ 4.77 MHz
• RAM: 256 to 640 KB
• VRAM: 128 KB (V9938); 16 KB (CGA)
• ROM: 16 KB (BIOS)
• Keyboard: mechanic, PC standard 83 keys
• Display: CGA and Yamaha V9938 for MSX2 graphics
• Sound: General Instrument AY-3-8910 (PSG)
• Ports: two joystick ports, TV out, video monitor out, parallel port, serial port, sound out (RCA), cartridge slot, SV expansion slot, one ISA slot.
• Storage: single 5" disk drive (360 KB); two disk drives; one disc drive and a 20 MB HD

Peripherals

Main itens:^[2]

• SVI-109P: Quickshot IX, joyball (IBM compatible)
• SVI-811: MSX1 Game Adapter (an adapter with a Zilog Z80A UCP and MSX standard joystick ports)
• SVI-812: Multifunction card (384 KiB RAM, RS-232C, RTC)
• SVI-813: cooler
• SVI-814P: PAL RF Adapter (to colour TVs or RGB monitor)
• SVI-815: Monitor Cable (D15 to 21 pins adapter, to RGB monitor)
• SVI-816: Monitor Cable (D15 to 8 pins adapter, to digital/analog RGB monitor).

External links

• -SVI-838 X'Press at Museo de los 16 Bits
• Web site: SVI-838 Circuit Diagram .

Notes and References

1. Web site: SVI 838 X'Press 16. 1000bit . 2012-07-08.
2. Web site: Spectravideo SVI-838. Samdal . 2012-07-08.