Mattel Aquarius Mini Expander - Model 4063

(Mattel Electronics - June 1983)

The Aquarius mini expander unit was released to give enhanced functionality to the aquarius computer and to capitalize on the booming video game console market. This accessory connects to the Aquarius computer via the cartridge port and derives it's power from there.

The term "mini" is a misnomer as the mini expander is almost the size of the computer itself. Though it does add functionality to the system that brought it's capabilities up to par for base model personal home computers of the time.

It featured dual cartridge ports one for expanded memory cartridges such as the 4k and 16k modules as well as a second slot for game and program cartridges. This allowed for more powerful and useful programs on the Aquarius such as the FinForm personal finance cartridge, which required more than the systems 4k of base ram.

The mini expander also offered three additional voices to the system's sound capabilities, bringing the Aquarius up to a total of four voices.

In addition to these capabilities the mini expander added a video gaming component that was lacking from the base unit... 16 position hand controllers with six mappable buttons that connected via two nine pin D-sub connectors on the back of the mini expander, making the Aquarius the machine it should have been from the start.

Basic specifications for the Mattel Aquarius mini expander and gaming controllers are listed below.