How to find the right Intellivision Accessories AI guide
Written by an AI model from its trained knowledge.
What the AI looks for in Intellivision Accessories
- Console revision compatibility
- Confirm your console before buying. The original Intellivision (Model 2609) has hardwired controllers. The Intellivision II and the Sears Super Video Arcade have detachable ones. Plug-in replacement controllers only fit consoles with detachable ports. On an original Intellivision, a 'new controller' means opening the console and swapping the wired controller inside.
- Controller condition
- Test the 16-direction disc in every direction, all keypad keys and the side buttons, or buy listings that state they were tested or refurbished. Worn keypad membranes and frayed coiled cords are the usual failure points. A controller that looks clean can still be unresponsive.
- Video output for modern TVs
- Stock consoles output RF only. You need a TV with an analog coax tuner, or a composite/AV mod or an external converter. Many current TVs no longer tune analog RF. An RF switch alone may give you no picture at all.
- Expansion module requirements
- Voice titles such as B-17 Bomber, Bomb Squad and Space Spartans need the Intellivoice module. ECS-specific titles need the Entertainment Computer System. These carts load without the module but lose voice or don't run properly. Check the cart's box or manual before buying the add-on.
- Power supply match
- The Intellivision II uses an external adapter, so match the voltage, current and polarity printed on the console. The original model has an internal supply and a fixed cord. A generic adapter with the wrong polarity or voltage can damage the board. 'Power supply for Intellivision' listings don't always say which model they fit.
- Game overlays
- Get the overlays for the specific games you own. Reproduction overlays are fine for play. Many games label their keypad functions only on the overlay, so they're hard to play without one.
Brands that matter
- Mattel Electronics: Original maker of the console, controllers, Intellivoice and ECS. Most used accessories you'll find are Mattel originals.
- INTV Corp.: Continued selling Intellivision hardware and games after Mattel exited. Its units are the same platform.
- Sears Tele-Games: Sold the Super Video Arcade, a rebadged Intellivision with detachable controllers.
- Left Turn Only: Makes the LTO Flash!, a flash cartridge for running homebrew and owned ROM images on original hardware.
What to avoid
- Untested 'as-is' controllers when you need a working one right away
- Plug-in replacement controllers bought for an original hardwired Intellivision
- Generic power adapters with no stated voltage and polarity match for the Intellivision II
- Assuming every third-party cart runs on the Intellivision II; some Coleco-published titles have known compatibility problems on that revision
- Buying an RF switch for a TV that has no analog tuner
Questions
Can I unplug the controllers on my Intellivision?
Only on the Intellivision II and the Sears Super Video Arcade. The original Intellivision's controllers are wired inside the console and stored in the top tray.
Do I need the Intellivoice to play voice games?
The voice titles are designed around it and lose their speech without it. Most other games don't use it.