Interton Video Computer 4000
An obscure German console with many software-compatible European variants.
Max Mustermann · CC BY-SA 2.0
The Interton Video Computer 4000 (VC 4000) is an 8-bit ROM cartridge-based second-generation home video game console released in 1978 by German hearing aid manufacturer Interton. It was sold in Germany, England, France, Spain, Austria, the Netherlands, and Australia, and is quite obscure outside Germany, though many software-compatible systems exist in other European countries.
Quick Facts
- Aka
- Interton VC 4000 (abbreviation)
- Manufacturer
- Interton
- Generation
- Second generation
- Price
- 298 · 1978
- Discontinued
- 1983
- Units Sold
- Unknown
- Cpu
- Signetics 2650A
- Graphics
- Signetics 2636 video controller
- Memory Card
- Cartridges
- Input
- 2 controllers with 12 buttons, 2 fire buttons and an analog joystick
- Predecessor
- Interton Video 3001
- Successor
- None
Facts from the source article.
Lore & Background
The Interton VC 4000 was released in 1978 as the successor to the Interton Video 3001, priced at 298 DM and discontinued in 1983. It is unknown whether Interton designed and produced the console under their own rights or purchased the rights to do so, as many other foreign brands produced clones of the system in preceding years. The console's power comes from a Signetics 2650 CPU and a Signetics 2636 gaming video controller, the same CPU used in the Arcadia 2001. Both controllers feature a 12-button keypad, two fire buttons, and a joystick. The system's control panel includes ON/OFF, RESET, SELECT, and START buttons. Games were released on ROM cartridges called cassettes, sold for 40 to 50 Deutsche Mark each. The library includes titles such as Car Races, Blackjack, Tank Battle, Chess, Invaders, and Super Invaders, among others, with a few unreleased titles like Space Laser, Rodeo, and Basketball.
Reader's Guide
The Interton VC 4000 is notable primarily for its role in the European market as a second-generation console that spawned numerous software-compatible variants across different countries. The console was produced by different companies and sold under different names, though not all are physically compatible due to differences in cartridge slot shapes and dimensions. This family of systems is grouped under the 1292 Advanced Programmable Video System, which includes a compatibility table. The VC 4000's obscurity outside Germany contrasts with its widespread presence in Europe through clones, making it a significant example of regional console proliferation during the late 1970s and early 1980s. Its library of over 30 released cassettes, including educational titles like Mathematics I and II and games like Outer Space Combat and Monster Man, reflects the typical range of the era. The console's discontinuation in 1983 aligns with the market shift following the video game crash, but its legacy endures through the many compatible systems and continued interest among collectors and emulation enthusiasts.
Did You Know?
- The Interton VC 4000 was released by German hearing aid manufacturer Interton.
- It uses the same Signetics 2650 CPU as the Arcadia 2001.
- The console has only 37 bytes of data memory.
- Games were sold on ROM cartridges called cassettes, priced at 40 to 50 Deutsche Mark each.
Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Interton Video Computer 4000?
The VC 4000 is a second-generation, 8-bit home video game console that loads software via ROM cartridges. It was manufactured in 1978 by Interton, a German company originally known for producing hearing aids.
What processor does the Interton VC 4000 use?
The system is powered by a Signetics 2650A CPU running at 0.887 MHz, paired with a Signetics 2636 video controller. It carries a very modest 37 bytes of data memory, which was typical for early cartridge-based consoles of that era.
In which countries was the Interton VC 4000 available?
It was sold across several European markets including Germany, England, France, Spain, Austria, and the Netherlands, as well as in Australia. Outside of Germany, the console remains fairly obscure and difficult to find today.
Why is it notable that a hearing aid company made the VC 4000?
Interton was primarily a German hearing aid manufacturer before venturing into consumer electronics, making the VC 4000 an unusual foray into the gaming world. This cross-industry entry gave the console a unique pedigree compared to systems from dedicated electronics firms.
Can I play VC 4000 cartridges on other consoles?
Yes, numerous software-compatible variants of the VC 4000 were produced in other European countries, so cartridges from one region can often run on a sibling system. This makes collecting and playing the library somewhat easier than with truly standalone obscure hardware.
More in Video Game Consoles by Generation, Part 5 1-24
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