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This Composite Video Mod has been specially developed for the classic Sinclair ZX Spectrum 16K and 48K computers.

The early Spectrum models originally output their picture through an RF/UHF modulator. This connection is increasingly inconvenient with modern TVs and monitors, as many newer displays no longer feature an analogue antenna input or provide limited support for old RF signals.

This upgrade board provides the ZX Spectrum with a direct composite video output.

Depending on the desired modification, the board can be installed in place of the original RF modulator or additionally while retaining the existing modulator.

The generated composite signal can be connected directly to a TV or monitor with a compatible AV/composite input. It can also be used as the video source for a suitable AV-to-HDMI converter, allowing the classic ZX Spectrum to be connected to modern TVs and monitors with HDMI inputs.

A practical upgrade for repairing, restoring and modernising a ZX Spectrum 16K or 48K.

✅ Features

• Composite Video Mod for Sinclair ZX Spectrum
• Specifically designed for ZX Spectrum 16K and 48K
• Direct composite video output
• Alternative to the original RF/UHF output
• Can be installed in place of the original RF modulator
• Can also be installed while retaining the original modulator
• Clean video output without RF tuning
• No analogue TV channel tuning required
• Suitable for TVs and monitors with composite input
• Can be used with suitable AV-to-HDMI converters
• Allows connection to HDMI displays using an additional converter
• Compact upgrade PCB
• Dedicated video signal input
• +5V connection on the PCB
• Ideal for repair, restoration and upgrades
• Designed for classic Sinclair hardware

Composite Video Instead of RF

The original ZX Spectrum 16K/48K was designed to connect to televisions using an RF/UHF signal.

The internal modulator converts the computer's video signal into an RF television signal, which is then received through the antenna input of the TV.

The Composite Video Mod bypasses this additional RF transmission stage and provides a direct composite video signal.

This also eliminates the need to tune the television to the correct analogue RF channel.

Replace or Retain the RF Modulator

The board offers flexible installation options.

Depending on the desired modification, it can be:

• Installed in place of the original RF modulator

• Installed in addition to the existing RF modulator

This allows the original modulator to be retained when desired, which can be useful when restoring classic hardware.

Connections

The PCB features clearly marked connection points including:

• IN – Video signal input
• +5V – Power supply
• Composite video output via the corresponding output socket

The board is designed for internal connection to the ZX Spectrum.

Suitable for AV-to-HDMI Converters

The generated composite video signal can be connected directly to a compatible TV or monitor.

Alternatively, it can be used as the input signal for a suitable AV-to-HDMI converter.

A typical setup would be:

ZX Spectrum → Composite Video Mod → AV-to-HDMI Converter → HDMI TV / Monitor

This provides a practical way to use a ZX Spectrum 16K/48K with modern displays that no longer have analogue video inputs.

⚠️ An AV-to-HDMI converter is not included.

Compatibility

✅ Compatible with:

• Sinclair ZX Spectrum 16K
• Sinclair ZX Spectrum 48K

❌ Not intended for:

• ZX Spectrum 128K
• ZX Spectrum +2
• ZX Spectrum +2A / +2B
• ZX Spectrum +3
• Other computers without the corresponding ZX Spectrum 16K/48K video circuitry

Later Spectrum models use different video output hardware and do not require this specific upgrade designed for the early 16K/48K systems.

Ideal For

• Upgrading a ZX Spectrum 16K
• Upgrading a ZX Spectrum 48K
• Replacing or bypassing the RF modulator
• Connecting to TVs with composite input
• Connecting to monitors with composite input
• Use with AV-to-HDMI converters
• Retro computer repairs
• Restoring classic Sinclair computers
• Modernising a classic ZX Spectrum setup

Installation

Installation requires the ZX Spectrum to be opened and the upgrade board to be connected internally.

Depending on the desired configuration, the original RF modulator can either be removed or retained.

Installation requires experience with classic electronics and soldering work inside the computer.

Before powering on the system, the power supply, signal connection, ground connection and all solder joints should be carefully checked.

⚙️ Technical Specifications

• Product Type: Composite Video Mod / Video Upgrade
• Compatibility: Sinclair ZX Spectrum 16K / 48K
• Video Signal: Composite Video
• Output: Composite video socket
• Power Supply: +5V
• Signal Input: IN
• Installation: Internal
• Installation Option: Instead of or in addition to RF modulator
• Application: Direct video output / video upgrade
• HDMI Use: Possible via separate AV-to-HDMI converter
• Soldering Required: Yes
• Design: Compact upgrade PCB

⚠️ Please Note

This module does not provide a direct HDMI output.

To connect the ZX Spectrum to HDMI, an additional compatible Composite/AV-to-HDMI converter is required.

The module is specifically designed for ZX Spectrum 16K and 48K computers. Please check the exact hardware version of your computer before installation.

Installation requires work inside the computer and should only be carried out by someone with suitable electronics and soldering experience.

Composite Video Mod for Sinclair ZX Spectrum 16K / 48K | Video Output