The VMU

The Visual Memory Unit

The VMU is one of the Dreamcast's most distinctive features. Far more than a plain memory card, it is a tiny handheld device with its own monochrome LCD screen, directional pad, buttons, buzzer, and clock. It slots into the top of a controller and can also be removed to use on its own. software

What it does

Primarily the VMU stores game saves in its 200 blocks of memory. But because it has a processor and screen, many games display extra information on it during play, such as a status panel, a map, or a mini-game you can take with you. A handful of titles let you download small games onto the VMU to play away from the console.

Hardware features

• LCD screen shows menus, the clock, and in-game data.
• Buzzer produces simple beeps and tones.
• Coin-cell battery powers the clock and standalone use.
• Connector links to the controller for power and data.

Caring for your VMU

The clock battery is the usual point of failure. When it dies the unit beeps and asks you to set the time on each power up, though saved data remains intact in non-volatile memory. The contacts can corrode over time and benefit from gentle cleaning.