LGR - Commodore PET Computer System Review
LGR・2 minutes read
Commodore's success in the personal computer market stemmed from the development of the 6502-based PET 2001, which competed effectively in education and business sectors, leading to the evolution of the PET series with improved models. The sought-after CBM 8032 model, known for its sturdy metal design and 32KB of RAM, became a valuable collector's item with various loading options for software.
Insights
- MOS Technology's development of the 6502 CPU sparked Commodore's interest, leading to the creation of the PET 2001 and subsequent models that successfully competed in the personal computer market.
- The evolution of the PET series, culminating in models like the CBM 8032, showcases Commodore's innovation and lasting impact, with the latter becoming a coveted collector's item due to its design and features.
Get key ideas from YouTube videos. It’s free
Recent questions
What crisis did Commodore Business Machines face in 1975?
Chip price increase by Texas Instruments
Related videos
Summary
00:00
Commodore's PET Series: A Brief History
- In 1975, Commodore Business Machines faced a crisis when Texas Instruments raised chip prices, forcing companies out of competition.
- MOS Technology developed the 6502 CPU to enter the personal computer market, catching Commodore's attention.
- Chuck Peddle led the creation of the KIM-1 single-board computer using the 6502 processor in 1976.
- Commodore acquired MOS Technology to secure chip manufacturing and began developing a 6502-based computer after seeing the Apple II.
- The PET 2001, based on the 6502 processor, was rushed for debut at the 1977 Consumer Electronics Show in Chicago.
- The PET 2001, priced at $495, competed successfully against the Radio Shack TRS-80 and Apple II in the education and business markets.
- The PET series evolved with models like the PET 4000 and CBM 8096, offering improved displays and keyboards.
- The CBM 8032 model from 1981, purchased for $79 in 2012, is a sought-after collector's item with a sturdy metal design and 32KB of RAM.
- Loading software on the PET can be done through typing programs, cassette drives, floppy disks, or modern options like the PETdisk for micro SD cards.
