HuC6280

The HuC6280 is a microchip developed by Hudson Soft. It served as the main central processing unit and sound generator for the TurboGrafx-16 and its successor, the TurboDuo. The chip is a derivative of the 6502 microprocessor, featuring several enhancements to support the capabilities of the TurboGrafx-16 console.

Key features of the HuC6280 include a clock speed of 7.16 MHz, making it relatively fast for its time. It has 8-bit data and address buses. In addition to its CPU functions, the HuC6280 integrates a sound synthesis chip capable of generating five hardware channels of sound. These channels could be configured for various waveforms and envelopes, contributing to the distinctive audio output of TurboGrafx-16 games.

The architecture of the HuC6280 allowed for efficient sprite handling and background rendering, crucial for the console's graphical performance. Its instruction set is largely compatible with the standard 6502, but with added instructions for graphics and sound manipulation. This made it accessible to developers familiar with the 6502 family of processors.

The HuC6280 was a significant component of the TurboGrafx-16's success, enabling a range of games with impressive visuals and audio for its era. Its integrated nature, combining CPU and sound capabilities, was a notable design choice for the console.