HOME VIDEO HISTORY.org

Matsushita VX-100

Matsushita introduces their VX format and VCR in Japan. The system uses 1/2″ tape on two reels stack on top of each other inside a cassette. Launched in the U.S. two years later.
Sony Betamax LV-1801 & SL-6300

Sony Betamax LV-1801 & SL-6300

Sony launches their new Betamax system in Japan, available in two distinct versions. The LV-1801, which is a television console unit, and the SL-6300, a standalone deck. The cassettes themselves are far smaller than anything else on the market, and at this time, only...

Sony Demonstrates the Betamax and Urges Standardization

Sony presents the Betamax system before the heads of Matsushita and JVC hoping they would adopt the format. The meeting doesn’t go well, as Sony left no room for negotiation. Insulted, the other companies continued with the development of their own videocassette...
Sanyo VTC-7100 (V-Cord I)

Sanyo VTC-7100 (V-Cord I)

Sanyo introduces their own videocassette system, the Sanyo VTC-7100 (later referred to as V-Cord I). It’s an early 1/2″ black and white videocassette system which uses the inferior skipfield process. Designed as a portable machine with a camera.
Avco Discontinues Their Cartrivision System

Avco Discontinues Their Cartrivision System

Due to a variety of reasons, including high cost, faulty equipment, poor marketing and disintegrating cartridges, Cartrivision didn’t meet sales projections. As a result, Avco discontinues the system and Cartridge Television Inc’s assets are...