TRS-80 - The Most Popular Personal Computer of 1977 | #SepTandy
Retro Hack Shack・39 minutes read
In 1977, many significant events occurred, such as the debut of Star Wars and the launch of Voyager 1 and 2. The TRS-80 computer, part of the 1977 Trinity, became a best-selling PC line despite some initial hardware issues that required troubleshooting and adjustments.
Insights
- The TRS-80, released in 1977, exceeded sales expectations, outselling the Apple 2 Series by five times, becoming the best-selling PC line of its time.
- The speaker detailed the intricate process of examining and troubleshooting TRS-80 computers, highlighting issues like monitor quality, power supply conditions, and potential upgrades, showcasing a dedication to meticulous repair work and problem-solving.
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Recent questions
What significant events occurred in 1977?
In 1977, Jimmy Carter became the President of the United States, Elvis Presley had his last performance, the Dr. Pepper jingle emerged, disco fever swept the nation, Star Wars debuted, Voyager 1 and 2 were launched, Atari introduced the VCS, and the TRS-80 was announced.
What was the TRS-80's impact on the PC market?
The TRS-80, part of the 1977 Trinity with Apple 2 and Commodore PET, became the best-selling PC line, outselling the Apple 2 Series by five times, despite initial projections of selling only 3,000 units.
What issues were noted with the TRS-80 monitors?
The first monitor had a sticky pot and low brightness, the second was initially out of focus with deflection problems, and the third had a non-functional brightness knob, showing differences in appearance and functionality.
How were TRS-80 computers tested for functionality?
The power supplies were tested, one in good condition and the other needing potential replacement. Two TRS-80 Model 1 computers were examined for differences in keyboards, appearance, and serial numbers, with readiness expressed for repairs if needed.
What upgrades were involved in the TRS-80 Level two upgrade?
The Level two upgrade required removing a chip, adding a ribbon cable, and using three PROMs, with attention given to strip wire leads, testing for shorts, adjusting voltage pots, and troubleshooting video signal issues for optimal functionality.
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Summary
00:00
1977: Year of Innovation and Pop Culture
- In 1977, Jimmy Carter became the President of the United States, while Elvis Presley's last performance occurred.
- A memorable jingle for Dr. Pepper emerged during this time.
- The disco fever trend swept the nation.
- Star Wars debuted in theaters, marking the start of a long-lasting science fiction franchise.
- Voyager 1 and 2 were launched towards the outer planets.
- Atari introduced the VCS, later known as the 2600, bringing joy to children globally.
- The space shuttle made its first manned flight on a 747 airliner.
- The TRS-80, developed by Tandy Radio Shack, was announced in August 1977, priced at $399 or $599 with a monitor and tape recorder.
- Initially projected to sell 3,000 units, over 55,000 TRS-80 units were sold in the first year.
- The TRS-80, part of the 1977 Trinity with Apple 2 and Commodore PET, became the best-selling PC line, outselling the Apple 2 Series by five times.
15:15
"Vintage Monitor and Computer Inspection Summary"
- The speaker noticed issues with the first monitor, mentioning a sticky pot and low brightness, suggesting using deoxide or adjusting internal controls.
- The first monitor displayed the Oregon Trail game, with adjustments made to improve the display quality.
- The second monitor had more significant issues, initially out of focus and with deflection problems, but gradually improved after being turned on.
- The third monitor, manufactured in November 1978, showed differences in appearance compared to the others, with varying knobs and a two-tone color scheme.
- The third monitor displayed good contrast but had a non-functional brightness knob, which seemed to be reversed with the contrast control.
- The power supplies for the computers were tested, with one in good condition and the other in a Frankenstein-like state, needing potential replacement.
- Two TRS-80 Model 1 computers were examined, with differences noted in their keyboards, appearance, and serial numbers, indicating potential upgrades or repairs.
- The older model TRS-80 was inspected internally, revealing a date of November 20, 1978, with no immediate concerns observed.
- The speaker expressed readiness to work on the computers if needed, mentioning the availability of replacement parts and a willingness to troubleshoot any issues that may arise.
31:06
Troubleshooting and upgrading vintage computer hardware.
- Chips are soldered directly, except for one in a socket, possibly replaced previously.
- Concerns about flimsy wires running across the board, potential for shorting out.
- Absence of a chip in a socket is normal, with two ROM chips for level one basic.
- Level two upgrade involves removing a chip, adding a ribbon cable, and using three PROMs.
- Noticing a strip wire lead coming off, requiring toning out for good connections.
- Testing for shorts on the board, ensuring good connections and voltage readings.
- Adjusting voltage pot due to low 5 volts, encountering a sticky pot issue.
- Troubleshooting intermittent video signal, adjusting voltage to resolve issues.
- Successfully powering up the system, checking power rails and confirming functionality.
