Sega Saturn Version Question

[ildperez]

I have a sega saturn that I bought from amazon thing looks mint and works great. Felt like a kid again when I turned it on and started playing astal. Im interested in getting the mod chip but i noticed that it is only recomended for the 2nd version of the console Is there a why to tell without opening the unit or should i just open it and see how many pins it has?. What I can see on the botom is that it was manufactured in august of 1996 IV then it says 670-7034A can any one help me out with this I would love to get the chip but only if it would work on my systems thanks in adavnce for the help.

[Ack]

What's the shape of the power button? Oval or circle?

[ildperez]

Its round not oval. But from what i have heard not that alone means that is a version 2.

[Ack]

Maybe not, but that does disqualify the model 1. Makes your search just that much easier.

[ildperez]

Guess im going to have to open it to make sure lol.

[Ack]

Nah, give the thread a day or two. Trust me.

[Dreamstation]

North American models

All North American models are black in color and were produced by Sega.
Model Type of Buttons Manufacturing Period Notes
MK-80000 Oval 6/95 – 3/96 Identical to the Grey Japanese Saturn except for color: the U.S. model is black. A few have been found with the backend molding of the MK-80000A and the notched power cord. It hasn't been determined what bios these really are.
MK-80000A Round 3/96 – 9/96 Features a notched power cord, no drive access light and a 1.00a BIOS. Internal jumper locations are changed.
MK-80001 Round 7/96 – 98 Similar in appearance to the MK-80000A, this machine has some changed internal jumper locations.

From Wikipedia.