Atari Mega 1, Mega 2 & Mega 4
The Atari Mega ST series was introduced in 1987 as a high-end version of the standard ST models, aimed at business users and professionals. The Mega ST models featured a redesigned case with a separate keyboard and better expandability.
Key Features
Processor: Motorola 68000 (8 MHz)Memory: Mega 1 (1 MB), Mega 2 (2 MB), Mega 4 (4 MB) RAM
Graphics: 320×200 (16 colors), 640×200 (4 colors), 640×400 (monochrome)
Sound: Yamaha YM2149 PSG (3 voices, 8-bit sound)
Storage: Internal hard drive (optional), external floppy drive
Operating System: TOS 1.02 with GEM
Why Was It Important?
Professional Market: Targeted at professionals with its modular design and expansion options.Upgradability: Featured an expansion slot for peripherals such as memory upgrades and coprocessors.
Desktop Publishing: Often used with the Atari SLM804 laser printer for DTP tasks.
Atari Mega STE
The Atari Mega STE, released in 1991, was an enhanced version of the Mega ST, incorporating features from the later STE series. It provided faster processing speeds and improved connectivity options, making it a more versatile workstation.
Key Features
Processor: Motorola 68000 (16 MHz, switchable to 8 MHz)Memory: 1 MB to 4 MB RAM (expandable)
Graphics: Same as earlier ST models but with improved blitter chip support
Sound: Enhanced DMA stereo sound
Storage: Internal 3.5-inch floppy drive, optional internal hard drive
Operating System: TOS 2.06 with GEM
Legacy
The Mega ST and Mega STE were important additions to the Atari lineup, offering more power and flexibility for professional users. The Mega STE, in particular, showed the potential of the ST architecture but was overshadowed by the rise of IBM-compatible PCs.