Documentary - The Sinclair ZX80, ZX81, and Timex Sinclair 1000
The 8-Bit Guy・2 minutes read
In the late 1970s and early 1980s, personal computers like the ZX-80 and ZX81 by Sinclair Research aimed to provide affordable options in the emerging computer market, offering basic capabilities and limited storage options. These early models featured minimal design, low resolution screens, and were priced competitively to expand the reach of computing technology to a broader audience, despite their limitations and lack of advanced features.
Insights
- The Sinclair ZX-80, priced at 79 pounds, was a pioneering attempt at an extremely affordable personal computer, featuring minimal design and limited capabilities like a 32x24 character display and cassette storage.
- The ZX81, an upgrade to the ZX80, offered improved functionality with a larger ROM, enhanced BASIC capabilities, floating-point math, and primitive graphics, all at a lower price point of 49 pounds in the UK and under a hundred dollars in the USA, showcasing advancements in cost-effective computing solutions.
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Recent questions
What were some early personal computer options in 1980?
Apple II, TRS-80, Commodore PET, Texas Instruments TI99/4, Atari 400.
What was the price of the Sinclair ZX-80?
79 pounds for a DIY kit or $140 pre-assembled.
What were the key features of the Sinclair ZX-80?
Z-80 microprocessor, 1K RAM, 4K ROM chip, minimal design.
How did the ZX81 differ from the ZX80?
Cheaper, larger ROM, improved BASIC, primitive graphics.
What challenges did the Timex Sinclair 1500 face?
Market failure due to strong competition.