I have a few dumb questions to ask about the Sega 32X. Firstly, what is the purpose of the metal prongs? Will it work without them? Also, what does the video connector to the Genesis do? Does it merely act as a video switch, or does it actually process something with it?
Do you mean the Video-Connector-Cable to the Genesis/MegaDrive? The 32X uses the Genesis/MegaDrive as a "Co-Processor". Some Graphics comes from the MegaDrive through the Video-Connector into the 32X. The 32X "mix" the Genesis/MegaDrive Data with the 32X Video. Thats why there are missing Graphics like Texts, Backgrounds if you forget to connect the Genesis/MegaDrive with the 32X.
Yeah, i've owned a a genesis nor a 32x (duh) but i learned this by watching the AVGN review about the 32x. That guy is fucking hillarious Here's a link to the review: http://www.gametrailers.com/player.php?id=19558&type=mov
The Metal is probably useless shielding added to please the FCC or something. The 32X uses an RGB link cable to take the RGB from your MegaDrive/Genesis to the 32X which is can combine the pictures. Usually you tend to see the Genesis background layers if any Genesis video is used at all. Mortal Kombat 2 and StarWars Arcade both use the Genesis background layers.
Ah, the metal plates. Those are used simply to make contact to the grounding plates/shielding in the Genesis/MD, much the same way there is a grounding plat connecting the Genesis to the Sega CD. These were required by FCC regulations, and they don't hurt to leave in place - but are not necessary. The originial runs of the 32x included two A/V cables. One of these cables that was removed in the later runs of the system was a cable that converts a model 1 genesis A/V plug into that of a Model 2 for proper use with the 32x. I'm actually looking for one of these converter cables right now... if anyone has a spare, PM me
I was just going to say, don't hook up the video cable, then you can play invisible Virtua Fighter! Man, I remember when I was a kid my friend had one of these and I moved the system. Somehow the cable came unplugged, we fire up Doom, and nothing. He thought I broke his 32x, as did I. Good times. I don't think he ever figured it out. I didn't figure it out till I actually got one.
All I know is that my 32X will be flimsy in place if I remove the plates... About the graphics, I know from a Chaotix review in some old mag that the Genesis was in charge of the background graphics while the 32X did all the other sprites, effects, polys and maybe sound too.
You don't have a manual, do you? http://www.digitalphage.com/md/Sega 32X manual v1.0.pdf Nitro, check out la-li's post in the marketplace. I linked to Telegames UK, who sell the cables.
