Nintendo's Famicom Transformed into a 2003-style Family Computer

In an intriguing discovery, technology enthusiast Nicole Branagan recently conducted an up-close investigation and teardown of a unique Famiclone, a console that bears a striking resemblance to a keyboard. This particular Famiclone, found in its original box on an online Goodwill store in Europe, comes equipped with a 48-in-1 cartridge.

The Famiclone, a ubiquitous clone of the Nintendo Famicom and similar NES consoles, is known for its ability to play a range of Famicom/NES games, as with typical cartridge-slot equipped Famiclones. However, this keyboard-shaped Famiclone presents some intriguing differences.

Upon closer inspection, it appears that the system likely uses a V.R. Technology's VTxx-series Famiclone. Although the specific model or version of the VTxx-series Famiclone is not specified, the Famiclone with the provided 48-in-1 cartridge and RAM-banked 32 kB of SRAM for Family BASIC, developed and made in the 2000s, is believed to be part of this series. The exact manufacturer or further product details remain unknown.

The 48-in-1 cartridge, a notable feature of this Famiclone, includes a variety of games, as well as Family BASIC, a programming language for beginners. However, it's worth noting that the cartridge does not have the ability to save game progress, which is one of the compatibility issues this Famiclone faces with Famicom software.

Another compatibility limitation is due to the system's remapped keys and lack of save functionality. Despite these limitations, the Famiclone can still play a variety of Famicom/NES games. The cartridge slot in the keyboard-shaped Famiclone is compatible with the provided 48-in-1 cartridge.

Inside the system, typical epoxied-over chips can be found, a common feature in many electronic devices. As for the custom software provided for the Famiclone's 48-in-1 cartridge, its impact on elevating the Famiclone significantly is debatable.

The Famiclone's origins date back to the early 2000s, when there was a half-serious attempt to use these consoles for an educational family computer. The system's appearance suggests it may have been used for a range of similar devices.

In conclusion, the keyboard-shaped Famiclone with the 48-in-1 cartridge is a fascinating entry in the world of Famiclones, offering a unique blend of gaming and educational potential. Despite its compatibility limitations, it remains a captivating piece of technology history.