Which Video Standard Did the PAL VIC-20 Use?

This article provides a concise technical overview of the video output specifications for the Commodore VIC-20 home computer. It specifically addresses the hardware differences found in units sold across Europe and other PAL regions, confirming the exact broadcast standard utilized for television compatibility.

The Commodore VIC-20, released in 1980, was one of the first computers to sell over one million units. Like many home computers of that era, it was designed to connect directly to a television set rather than a dedicated monitor. To achieve this, the hardware had to align with the regional television broadcast standards. For the version of the VIC-20 distributed in PAL regions, such as Europe and Australia, the system utilized the PAL video standard.

Technically, this distinction was managed through the video interface chip. The NTSC version of the computer employed the MOS Technology 6560 VIC chip, while the PAL version was equipped with the MOS Technology 6561 VIC chip. This change was necessary because the PAL standard operates at 50 Hz with 625 scan lines, whereas NTSC operates at 60 Hz with 525 scan lines. Consequently, the PAL VIC-20 generated a composite video signal compliant with PAL-B or PAL-G specifications, depending on the specific country of sale.

Users connecting the PAL VIC-20 to a display would typically experience a resolution of 23 rows by 22 characters in text mode, slightly different from the NTSC variant due to the timing differences in the video signal. The color encoding also followed the Phase Alternating Line method, ensuring accurate color reproduction on compatible television sets without the hue issues sometimes seen on NTSC systems. Understanding this distinction is crucial for collectors and enthusiasts seeking to operate the hardware on period-correct displays.