Description
The FOR-A FA-800 was introduced in July 1986, during an era that would establish FOR-A as a leader in the TBC market. In 1985, FOR-A's Sakura R&D Center opened its doors in Chiba Prefecture, developing products focused on the frame synchronization capabilities of TBCs.
Time-based correction was only one role of TBCs during this period. The devices evolved to offer frame synchronization, clip memory, signal processing, and transcoding capabilities. Feedback from users revealed that TBCs were being used in surprising ways, and that customers had many unexpected needs.
Meeting these needs around the world was difficult, especially because VTRs and VCRs varied by manufacturer, but this work distinguished FOR-A as a leader in TBCs—to the extent that sales representatives at trade shows were sometimes surprised with orders for hundreds of units at a time.
FA Series Timeline (1986-1989)
- FA-450/450P (1986) - First 8-bit TBC
- FA-800 (1986) - Sakura R&D Center era (this model)
- FA-300/300P (1987) - Smaller, more affordable (~8,800 units sold)
- FA-310/310P (1989) - Best-selling model (13,000+ units), flew to Mir
