Launch of the TRS-80 Personal Computer

August 3rd, 1977

August 3rd, 1977

Launch of the TRS-80 Personal Computer
How Long Ago?

47 years, 7 months, 12 days ago

Location

Fort Worth, Texas, United States

Category

Science & Technology

People
  • Don French
  • John Roach
Links & References
Tags

Launch of the TRS-80 Personal Computer

Tandy Corporation announced the TRS-80, one of the first mass-produced personal computers, significantly impacting the computing landscape. It was introduced during a time of burgeoning interest in personal computing. The TRS-80 offered an accessible option for hobbyists and small business owners alike, being sold through RadioShack stores. Featuring a Zilog Z80 microprocessor, it was praised for its affordability and ease of use, allowing users to engage with technology in a new and personal way.

TRS-80 featured a Zilog Z80 microprocessor.

Sold through the extensive RadioShack network.

Targeted hobbyists and small businesses.

Paved the way for personal computing accessibility.

What Happened?

The TRS-80, officially dubbed as the 'Tandy Radio Shack Computer Model 80', marked a pivotal moment in the development of personal computing. Introduced by Tandy Corporation, its popularity surged due in large part to its availability through the extensive RadioShack retail network. Unlike previous computing systems that required significant technical knowledge and investment, the TRS-80 was designed for users with limited experience in electronics, making it one of the first personal computers in the mass market. It was equipped with a Zilog Z80 microprocessor and came with a basic 4KB of RAM, expandable to 48KB, along with a built-in keyboard and a monochrome monitor.The TRS-80 was among the first machines to utilize an integrated design, merging hardware and software efficiently for straightforward operation. The launch was strategically aligned with a growing consumer interest in computers following the emergence of the microprocessor. The machine was primarily aimed at hobbyists and small businesses, allowing users to perform tasks such as word processing, programming, and simple database management. It offered compatibility with a number of accessories, which further enhanced its versatility, cementing its status as a revolutionary product in the computing world. Beyond the specifications, customer feedback was overwhelmingly positive, which led to strong sales figures and a rapid expansion of the TRS-80 brand. With the ability to push personal computing into homes and small offices, Tandy played a crucial role in breaking down barriers to technology, making computers accessible to a wider audience. The TRS-80 would spawn several subsequent models, ensuring the brand's place in tech history.

Why Does it Matter?

The announcement and subsequent popularity of the TRS-80 helped to catalyze the personal computer revolution. This model made computing more accessible to ordinary people, prompting a shift in how technology was integrated into daily life and paving the way for future innovations. The TRS-80's success demonstrated the potential of personal computing, influencing other companies to develop their own machines and software, thereby expanding the industry to what we see today.

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