Hardware
| Catalogue ID | CVH-0334 |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Vision-Daptor |
| Region | United States |
| Year | 2012 |
| Type | Cable and Adapter (Accessory) |
| Connects via | DB9 |
| Platform | ColecoVision and ADAM |
| Status | Discontinued |
| Rarity | Loose R6 · Complete R8 |
| Manufacturer site | https://intellivisionrevolution.com/vision-daptor |
The Vision-Daptor is a USB controller interface designed to connect original ColecoVision and Intellivision controllers to modern computers for use with emulators and other software.
Released by 2012, the Vision-Daptor was based on the earlier 2600-daptor design but expanded specifically to accommodate the more complex controllers used by the ColecoVision and Intellivision.
A hardware switch places the Vision-Daptor into a dedicated ColecoVision mode. Original ColecoVision controllers can then be connected to the interface and used through a computer's USB port.
The standard ColecoVision controller's joystick and two side buttons are presented as USB joystick inputs, while its 12-key keypad generates corresponding keyboard inputs. This allows the complete controller to be used without requiring a separate joystick-to-keyboard mapping utility.
The interface also provides extensive support for the Super Action Controller, including all four colored action buttons, keypad and Speed Roller spinner.
The spinner is recognized as an analog rotational input. Support within individual ColecoVision emulators, however, depends upon how the emulator implements spinner controls.
The developer also considered possible compatibility with the ColecoVision Driving Controller and Roller Controller, although these peripherals were not available to the developer for complete testing and therefore should not be considered confirmed supported devices.
The Vision-Daptor operates as a standard USB Human Interface Device and requires no special driver. It presents itself to the computer as a combination USB joystick and keyboard.
It uses USB 2.0 and transmits controller information every millisecond to minimize input delay. Firmware can also be upgraded through the USB connection.
The interface was designed for Windows, Mac and Linux computers and should operate with systems providing native USB HID support.
The Vision-Daptor is an early example of a modern interface designed specifically to preserve the complete functionality of original ColecoVision controllers for computer emulation.
Unlike simple Atari-style USB joystick adapters, the Vision-Daptor accommodates the ColecoVision controller's numeric keypad and multiple action buttons as well as the additional controls of the Super Action Controller.
Its ability to connect authentic ColecoVision controllers to contemporary computers makes it an important bridge between original ColecoVision hardware and modern software emulation.
Product: Vision-Daptor
Introduced: 2012
Type: USB Controller Interface
Interface: USB 2.0 / USB HID
Primary Systems: ColecoVision and Intellivision
ColecoVision Controllers: Standard Hand Controller and Super Action Controller
Additional Compatibility: Atari 2600-style joysticks in ColecoVision mode
Operating Systems: Windows, Mac and Linux
Manufactured: United States
Firmware: USB upgradeable