Ricoh
The company behind the NES
Ricoh manufactured the custom chips that made the NES possible, including the CPU with integrated APU that gave Nintendo consoles their distinctive sound.
Overview
While Nintendo designed the Famicom, Ricoh manufactured its silicon. The 2A03 (NTSC) and 2A07 (PAL) combined a 6502 CPU with Nintendo’s Audio Processing Unit, while the 2C02/2C07 PPU handled graphics. This partnership gave Nintendo control over its hardware supply chain.
Fast facts
- Founded: 1936 as Riken Kankoshi (originally in optics/photography).
- Nintendo partnership: began early 1980s.
- Key products: 2A03/2A07 CPU+APU, 2C02/2C07 PPU.
- Relationship: long-term manufacturing partner for Nintendo.
Famicom/NES chips
| Chip | Function | Features |
|---|---|---|
| 2A03 (NTSC) | CPU + APU | Modified 6502, 5 audio channels |
| 2A07 (PAL) | CPU + APU | PAL timing variant |
| 2C02 (NTSC) | PPU | Graphics, sprites, scrolling |
| 2C07 (PAL) | PPU | PAL timing variant |
CPU modifications
The 2A03 was a 6502 with changes:
- Removed: decimal mode (saves die space, avoids licence fees)
- Added: APU integrated on-die
- Added: DMA controller for sprite data
- Added: Controller port interface
Manufacturing partnership
Ricoh provided Nintendo:
- Reliability: proven semiconductor manufacturing
- Volume: capacity to produce millions of units
- Customisation: willingness to build Nintendo’s designs
- Exclusivity: chips made only for Nintendo
Impact
This vertical integration helped Nintendo:
- Control costs during manufacturing
- Ensure supply during peak demand
- Maintain quality standards
- Keep hardware secrets from competitors
Beyond Nintendo
Ricoh remained primarily known for office equipment (copiers, printers) while their semiconductor division served various markets. The Nintendo partnership represented a relatively small but significant part of their chip business.