# Introduction

**kat5200** is a cross-platform emulator for the **Atari 5200 SuperSystem** and the
**Atari 8-bit computer line** (400/800 and the XL/XE family). 

This guide covers version **1.0.2**.

## Highlights

- **Two machine families in one emulator** — switch between the 5200 console and the
  400/800/XL/XE computers.
- **Built-in GUI** (rendered with SDL3 + Nuklear) for configuration, ROM launching,
  state save/load, and a Setup window for first-time use.
- **ROM Launcher** with a searchable list, favorites, per-ROM settings, and directory
  scanning so your library is ready to play.
- **Accurate video** including an optional NTSC artifacting filter (RF, Composite,
  S-Video, and RGB presets), palette import/export, and GPU shader bundles.
- **Flexible input** — keyboard, joysticks/gamepads, mice, and trackball emulation,
  with per-player input plus analog/digital stick options tuned for tricky 5200
  titles.
- **Media support** for cartridges, floppy disks, cassettes, and executables, plus
  tools to create blank disk and cassette images.
- **State save/load** with quick-save slots and named state files.
- **Per-ROM overrides** — save tailored machine, video, sound, and input settings
  for an individual game without changing your global defaults.

## How this guide is organized

| Section | What you'll find |
|---------|------------------|
| [Requirements](requirements.md) | Hardware and library prerequisites. |
| [Installation](installation.md) | Building and installing kat5200. |
| [Quick Start](quick-start.md) | Get a game running in a few minutes. |
| [Options](options/index.md) | Every configuration window, organized by GUI menu. |
| [Launcher](launcher/index.md) | Managing and launching your ROM library. |
| [Command Line](command-line.md) | Startup options and configuration overrides. |
| [Troubleshooting](troubleshooting.md) | Common problems and fixes. |

!!! note "First-pass document"
    This guide is an early pass and will be expanded over time. If something looks out
    of date relative to the running program, the program is authoritative — please
    report mismatches.
