some MD questions

[gamelife]

hi all, just need to be clear on a few things

1) i remember that Pal/US megadrive carts were playable on either machine - but can Pal/US carts be played on the Jap MD?

2) can the MD output and RGB signal?

3) if i buy a Jap/US machine what kind of leads will i need, what about a stepdown etc?

4) what kind of mods are available for the Pal machine, like 50/60 hz switch etc?

thanks for any help,
rich

[MD]

1) i remember that Pal/US megadrive carts were playable on either machine - but can Pal/US carts be played on the Jap MD?

Jap carts won't fit into a PAL machine unless you have a bridge adapter or cut off the tabs on the top of the cartridge slot. UK/US games may not fit into a Jap machine if the cartridge lock is still in place.

Later >1993 will only work on the machines they were designed for, so a switched Megadrive is good.

2) can the MD output and RGB signal?

Yes, the MD1 uses a 8 Pin Din socket, used on the Master System 1.

The MD2 uses a 9 Pin Mini Din socket, scart leads are harder to find tho.

You will need to use RGB if using a switched machine.

3) if i buy a Jap/US machine what kind of leads will i need, what about a stepdown etc?

For MD1

Buy a switched (800ma to 1.2Amp (1200ma)) regulated PSU with multi connectors as one fits, make sure its set to Negative polarity and an RGB SCART lead (www.videogameimports.com)

For MD2

Buy same switched PSU but take the MD PSU to Maplins or somewhere and they should be able to supply you with the correct Tip, get RGB SCART lead.

Or get a stepdown with a US/JAP plug socket anything about 20W will do...

4) what kind of mods are available for the Pal machine, like 50/60 hz switch etc?

You sort of answered your own question...

50/60Hz
Jap/English

Other mods like S-Video exist but are pointless...

[gamelife]

thanks alot for that info mate

do you know where i can get hold of a modded MD, 50/60hz with a RGB lead and suitable stepdown?