Nintendo Gamecube Modem Adapter
Take a look how Conexant's 56k modem fits into the Gamecube.
September 11, 2000
Gamers have come to expect expandability from Nintendo products ever since the SNES -- and Gamecube is no exception. Whereas Nintendo 64 provided a single EXT. port on the bottom of the console for the addition of the 64DD disk drive, Gamecube one-ups the old 64-bit box with three ports:
- a high-speed port
- a small-sized Serial Port (2) at the side of the console
- a wide Serial Port (1) for network adapters
While Nintendo wouldn't comment on the use of the Hi-Speed and Serial Port 2, it was all too willing to announce two devices that will plug into Serial Port 1. In the future, gamers will be able to choose between a broadband and a Modem Adapter, both of which are designed to fit into port 1. In other words, you choose whether you want quick and easy broadband access at a price -- or lower-cost 56k modem access that supposedly works with any ISP out there.
Both adapters are being built and supplied by Conexant. The modem will work in conjunction with the console to allow platform owners a dial-up connection to an online network where they will be able to trade data and play games online. Nintendo has not announced its Internet strategy, but sources say the strategy is very solid and not something Nintendo has glanced over.
"[Gamecube] will combine Nintendo's world-class design and beloved franchise characters with the expansion of the world of gaming by an online network," commented Genyo Takeda, Nintendo's corporate director and general manager of integrated research and development. "Conexant's modem technology will connect Dolphin users to both the Internet and other gamers, creating a rich and dynamic entertainment experience."
As you can see, the modem adapter is connected to the Gamecube console via a small serial port at the underside of the unit:
The modem fits snugly into the console. The telephone wire is plugged directly into the adapter on the left.
Nintendo has yet to announce its complete online strategy. So far, Nintendo says the Modem Adapter is not included with the console and will be sold separately. Keep in mind that rival Sega had a hard enough time putting together an online infrastructure for the modem included with the Dreamcast console. It remains to be seen if Nintendo can leverage its experience with the Randnet DD network and deliver a smooth Gamecube online experience.
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