Famicom Data Recorder

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History

The Drive was released in 1984 only in Japan as an addition to the Family BASIC Keyboard to save data from BASIC programs created by users. Also, some Famicom/NES games used this device in order to save some custom data (for example, "Excitebike" and "Mach Rider" needed the recorder in order to save tracks created by users). The drive was needed due to the high cost of storing data by battery backup, the high cost of production also lead Nintendo to create the Famicom Disk System. The drive uses standard Compact Cassette.

Operation and use

The Data recorder was powered either by a 6 volt adapter or 4 AA batteries. The recorder could be used as a conventional sound recorder, and included a built in microphone in the bottom left hand corner of the unit. The recorder has mono sound output from a built in speaker on the top of the unit. A convenient volume control is accessible on the left hand side.

The recorder has two data ports that use a conventional 1/8" mono phono plug. The port on the left hand side is labeled "ear" and "load". The port on the right is labeled as "Mic" and "Save". When used as a data storage device the Phone cables connected to the corresponding Write and Save ports on the Family BASIC keyboard.

The Data recorder set included 1 instruction manual, a data cable, a Nintendo branded Compact Cassette and a 6 volt AC Adapter. In addition the unit features a convenient handle that slides out from the front bezel, to help carry it around.

Legacy

The Data Recorder did not suffer the same problems that relegated other first party Nintendo peripherals to the sidelines. This recorder is perhaps the only first party Nintendo peripheral that functions outside of its intended purpose as a game save device and could be operated without ever owning a Famicom. However it became obscure with low sales and virtually unknown outside of Japan.