The Philips VG-5000 μ (sometimes spelled VG5K) is an 8-bit home computer, manufactured by French Radiotechnique (RTS), and marketed by Philips, Radiola and Schneider from 1984 until 1986. Despite having a similar name to the Philips VG-8000, it is not compatible with the MSX standard and only works with proprietary software.
The Philips VG-5000 has a keyboard with French AZERTY layout. Obviously, the computer I bought for my collection is from France. In addition to the computer, the lot I bought on eBay also includes the SCART video cable, the manual (in French), the cardboard box and the Philips VU-0022 power supply (also compatible with the vintage computer Philips VG-8010).
The exact computer model is: Philips VG-5000/19.
Philips VG-5000 μ computer startup screen
The Philips VG5000 computer starts with a screen in French, showing the following black lettering on a blue background:
VG 5000 BASIC version 1.1 13758 octets disponibles Ok!
Technical characteristics of the Philips VG-5000
CPU: Zilog Z80, 8-bit, 4 MHz
ROM: 18 KB
RAM: 16 KB expandable up to 48 KB (+ 8KB video separate RAM)
Text mode: 40 columns x 25 rows
Graphics mode: 320 × 250 pixels (8 colors)
Keyboard: AZERTY 63 keys
Software included in ROM: Microsoft BASIC
Expansion ports:
- 50-pole edge connector for expansion
- Tape drive (DIN 8-pin)
- Audio/Video (DIN 8 poles)
Emulate vintage Philips VG-5000 computer μ
The Philips VG5000 home computer can be emulated, under Windows, with the DCVG5K emulator.
Philips VG5000 power supply
The power supply of the Philips VG5000 home computer is external.
It connects to the computer with a round 5-pin DIN connector. This is the arrangement of the connector poles, looking at it towards the back of the computer and looking at the power steering wheel connector from the side of the solders.
Pin 1, center: Not connected.
Pin 2, bottom left: +5V.
Pin3, bottom right: -12V (negative).
Pin 4, top right: GND.
Pin 5, top left: +12V.
The Philips VU-0022 (VU 022) power supply generates the following voltages:
- 5V, 1.55A
- 12V, 100mA
- -12V, 100mA
The input of the power supply connects to the mains voltage at 220 V, in alternating current 50 Hz.
Papers
1. Philips VG5000 manuel d'utilisation (French)
2. Philips VG5000 technical manual
3. 56 programmes in BASIC
4. Philips VG0022 service manual (power supply)
5. Wiring diagram
Collection entry date: 31/01/2023