Chronology of Events
in the
History of Microcomputers

1981

January

• Radio Shack ceases production of the TRS-80 Model I, and recalls units from the US market, due to failure to meet new FCC radio-frequency interference regulations. [255.202] [258.208] (1980 NOV [268.188])
• Osborne Computer Corporation is incorporated. [266.263]
• The International Winter Consumer Electronics Show is held in Las Vegas, Nevada. [267.52]
• Casio demonstrates the FX-9000P, with a 5 inch CRT, keyboard, keypad, removable memory modules, and 256x128 graphics. [267.53]
• Commodore announces the VIC-20, with full-size 61-key plus four function key keyboard, 5KB RAM expandable to 32KB, 6502A CPU, 22 character by 23 line text display, and color graphics, for US$300. During its life, production peaks at 9,000 units per day. [254.214] [190.81] [267.54] [268] [275.43] (1980 JUN [9])

February

• Steve Wozniak's private plane crashes, leaving him with a temporary loss of short-term memory, lasting for over a month. [218] [266.236]
• Intel introduces the iAPX432 at the International Solid State Circuits Conference.
• MS-DOS runs for the first time on IBM's prototype microcomputer.
• Intel begins shipping evaluation sets of the iAPX432 microprocessor. Performance is claimed as 2 MIPS.
• Curt and Kathy Preston open the Byte Shop in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. [267.138]
• Mattel test-markets the keyboard component of the Intellivision in Fresno, California. [268.48]

March

• The director of Canada' Radiation Protection Bureau declares that video display terminals carry no radiation hazard. [558.138]
• Sinclair unveils the ZX81, based on the Z80A microprocessor, for under US$200. [198.vii]
• Mike Markkula takes over as president and chief executive officer at Apple Computer. Steve Jobs remains as chairman of the board.

April

• Tim Patterson quits Seattle Computer Products, and joins Microsoft.
• The sixth West Coast Computer Faire is held, in San Francisco, California. [267.6] [273.104]
• Adam Osborne, of Osborne Computer Corporation, introduces the Osborne 1 Personal Business Computer at the West Coast Computer Faire. It features a Z80A CPU, 5-inch display, 64KB RAM, keyboard, keypad, modem, and two 5.25-inch 100KB disk drives for US$1795. Weight: 24 pounds. It also includes US$1500 worth of software, including CP/M, BASIC, WordStar, and SuperCalc. Osborne anticipated selling 10,000 in total, but sales quickly reached 10,000 in a single month. [9] [257.8] [203.22] [273.104] [548.412] (JUL [41] [346.99]) (nearly US$2000 worth of software [266.263])

May

• The National Computer Conference is held in Chicago, with attendance of 73,000. [263.36]
• Xerox unveils the Star 8010, at the National Computer Conference. Many features that were developed on the Alto are incorported. At a starting price of US$16-17,000, the computer is not a commercial success.
• Atari announces the 8KB Atari 400 is being discontinued. [273.206]

June

• Microsoft reorganizes into Microsoft Incorporated, with Bill Gates as President and Chairman, and Paul Allen as Executive Vice President.
• Microsoft persuades IBM to introduce its microcompute with a minimum of 64KB RAM. IBM had planned to only include 16KB. [346.84]

July

• Xerox announces the Xerox 820. During its development, it was code-named The Worm. It uses the Z80 CPU, CP/M, and BASIC. The price with a dual disk drive and display is US$3000.
• Microsoft buys all rights to DOS from Seattle Computer Products, and the name MS-DOS is adopted.
• IBM introduces its first desktop computer, the Datamaster. It uses a 16-bit 8086, and is a dedicated data processing machine.
• The first IBM PCs roll off the assembly lines.
• Mike Scott resigns from Apple Computer.

August

• IBM announces the IBM 5150 PC Personal Computer, featuring a 4.77-MHz Intel 8088 CPU, 64KB RAM, 40KB ROM, one 5.25-inch floppy drive, and PC-DOS 1.0 (Microsoft's MS-DOS), for US$3000. A fully loaded version with color graphics cost US$6000. The plunge of IBM into the microcomputer market legitimized the industry for the rest of the world. This also established the preeminence of the Intel 8086-family and the Microsoft MS-DOS operating system.[41] [108] [120] [123] [146] [202.205] [205.28] [266.276] [277.14] [288.192] [346.86] [389.28] [415.48] [443.50]
• IBM announces the CGA graphics card for the PC, giving 640x200 resolution with 16 colors.
• Quote from Tandy president John Roach, regarding IBM's entry into the microcomputer field: "I don't think it's that significant". [346.87]
• Apple Computer runs a full-page ad in the Wall Street Journal with a headline that reads "Welcome IBM. Seriously.".
• Vector Graphic makes its first public stock offering of US$13 million. [202.212]

September

• Novell Data Systems hires SuperSet to create software to link computers together to share a hard drive. [548.432]
• Microsoft begins work on a graphical user interface for MS-DOS, initially called Interface Manager, because it would effectively hide the interface between programs and devices like printers and video cards.
• Osborne Computer Company has its first US$1 million sales month. [266.263]
• Apple Computer introduces its first hard drive, the 5MB ProFile, for US$3500.
• IBM begins shipping the IBM PC, ahead of schedule, something unheard of in the microcomputer industry.
• The Fourth Personal Computer World Show is held, in London England. [278.118]
• Sinclair Research and W H Smith sign an agreement for W H Smith to sell the ZX-81 in its retail stores in England, for a trial 1-year period. [285.93]
• Acorn Computer Ltd. introduces the BBC Microcomputer System. It features a 6502A CPU, up to 48 KB RAM, 73-key keyboard, and 16 color graphics. [278.120]

October

• The ZX81 is introduced to the American market, for US$150. [201.vi]
• A senior scientist at Bell Telephone Laboratories declares that video monitors pose no health hazard due to radiation exposure. [558.138]

November

• Novell Data Systems ships the Novell Data Management Computer, with the ability to share its hard drive space with other computers through software comtrol and network cards. [548.432]
• Ashton-Tate ships dBASE II, the early industry-standard database program. [41] (JAN [346.261])
• Microsoft, Incorporated becomes Microsoft Corporation.

December

• Intel ships the 8087 math coprocessor.
• Sinclair Research reports that it has shipped 250,000 ZX81 personal computers. [394.418]
• National Semiconductor announces the 32000 chip, the first commercial 32-bit microprocessor. The 32000 family includes CPUs and peripheral chips.

(month unknown)

• (late fall) Apple Computer officially reintroduces the Apple III, with improved software and a hard disk.

(month unknown)

• Bally licenses Commodore to manufacture its arcade games into cartridges for the VIC-20. [279.6]

(month unknown)

• Toshiba demonstrates its T200 and T250 systems.

(month unknown)

• Rockwell International ceases production of bubble-memory products for the microcomputer market.

(month unknown)

• W.H. Sim founds Creative Technology in Singapore. [221]

(month unknown)

• Hayes Microcomputer Products advertises the Smartmodem 300, which becomes the industry standard.

(month unknown)

• Astrovision releases the Bally Computer System. [292]

(month unknown)

• Seagate Technologies begins shipping its 5 MB 5.25-inch hard drives, for US$1700.

(month unknown)

• College professor James Clark found Silicon Graphics, Incorporated.

(month unknown)

• Hayes Microcomputers Products' employee, Dale Heatherington, develops the +++ escape sequence for modems.

(month unknown)

• APF introduces the Imagination Machine II at the 1981 Winter Consumer Electronics Show. It features a 6800 CPU, 27KB RAM, two 5.25 inch disk drives, built-in cassette drive, 53-key keyboard, and 32x16 character display caability for US$1600. [275.38]

(month unknown)

• Vector Graphic Inc. unveils the first personal computer with a built-in hard disk drive, for US$7950. [258.208]

(month unknown)

• Tandy Corporation sues Personal Microcomputers Inc. for copyright infringement on the design of the TRS-80. [258.208]

(month unknown)

• At COMDEX, Tecmar introduces 20 add-on peripherals for the IBM PC, the first such third-party developer.

(month unknown)

• Texas Instruments announces that it is getting out of the magnetic bubble memory market.

(month unknown)

• Apple Computer signs a secret agreement with Apple Corps Limited (the record company started by the Beatles), allowing Apple Computer to use the "Apple" name for its business. [548.377]

(month unknown)

• Apple Computer prohibits mail-order sales of Apple computers, claiming there is no provision for customer education or services..9]

(month unknown)

• NCR and Shugart Associates develop the Shugart Associates system interface (SASI). [542.114] (developed by Shugart, 1979-81 [543])

(month unknown)

• The ANSI X3T9 standards committee adopts SASI as a working document for an ANSI interface standard. It is finalized in 1986, and named SCSI. [542.114] (NCR and Shugart request committee be formed; committee X3T9.2 formed in 1982 [543])

1982

January

• The US Justice Department throws out the antitrust lawsuit filed against IBM 13 years ago.
• The 1982 Winter Consumer Electronics Show is held in Las Vegas, Nevada. [285.64] [395.106]
• Commodore introduces the Commodore Ultimax, for US$150. [285.64]
• Kazuhiko Nishi, Mocrosoft's representative in Japan, shows Bill Gates a drawing of a prototype for a portable computer, using a new liquid crystal display developed by Hitachi. Gates and Nishi begin designing the detais of the computer, which Kyocera Corporation in Japan had agreed to manufactur.
• Commodore announces the Commodore 64 (6510, 64KB RAM, 20KB ROM with Microsoft BASIC, custom sound, color graphics, for US$600) for US$595. During 1983, the price drops to US$200. It becomes the best selling computer of all time, with estimated sales of 17-22 million units. It is the first personal computer with an integrated sound synthesizer chip.
• Commodore introduces the 16K SuperVIC. [285.66]
• Commodore introduces the VIC Modem, a 300 baud cartridge modem for US$110. [285.66]
• Texas Instruments introduces a peripheral expansion unit for the TI-99/4, for US$250.
• Astrovision introduces the ZGrass-32 personal computer add-on to the Astro Professional Arcade, for US$600. It uses a Z-80 CPU. [285.66]
• Toshiba America previews its firest personal computer, the Model T-100. It uses a Z-80A, a flat panel LCD display, and supports up to 32KB RAM and 32KB ROM in cartridges.
• In the first 10 months of sale, 250,000 Sinclair ZX81 microcomputers have been delivered. [281.6]
• Sharp introduces the Sharp PC-1500 Hand Held Personal Computer. It comes with 16KB ROM, and 3.5KB RAM. Price for computer is US$300. Price for tiny color graphics printer that attaches to the side, US$250. [285.67]
• Atari begins shipping all Atari 800 units with GTIA graphics chips, allowing three more graphics modes than previously. [286.200]
• Radio Shack introduces the TRS-80 Model 16. It uses a 16-bit Motorola MC68000 microprocessor, a Z-80 microprocessor, 8-inch floppy drives, and optional 8-MB hard drive.
• Radio Shack introduces the TRS-80 Pocket Computer, Model PC-2, for US$280. It uses a 1.3-MHz 8-bit microprocessor, and has a 26-character display, with upper and lower case characters. It comes with 16KB ROM, and 2.6KB RAM, expandable to 16KB. An optional 4-color printer attaches to the side. [286.216] [393.41]
• Davong Systems Incorporated is formed. [287.11]
• Casio introduces the FX-9000P microcomputer. It uses a 2.75-MHz processor, 12KB ROM, 4KB RAM (expandable to 32KB), built-in 32x16 character (256x128 graphics) monochrome monitor, for US$1200. [395.106]
• The Tabor company is established, for creating disk drives. [444.74]
• Epson introduces the KX-1 desktop computer in Japan.
• Microsoft signs an agreement with Apple Computer, for Microsoft to develop applications for the Macintosh.

February

• IBM splits its Personal Computer development team into three groups: one to work on the PC XT, one to develop the PCjr, and one to start work on the PC AT.
• Compaq Computer Corporation is founded by Rod Canion, Jim Harris, and Bill Murto, all former senior managers of Texas Instruments.
• Intel introduces the 6-MHz 80286 microprocessor. It uses a 16-bit data bus, 134,000 transistors (1.5 microns), and offers protected mode operation. Initial price is US$360 each, in quantities of 100. It can access 16 MB of memory, or 1 GB of virtual memory. Speed is 0.9 MIPS. Later versions operated at 10-MHz (1.5 MIPS), and 12-MHz (2.66 MIPS).
• Sun Microsystems is founded.

March

• Microsoft releases FORTRAN for MS-DOS.
• Coprocessors Inc. introduces the 88-Card, a plug-in card for the Apple II, with 64KB RAM and an Intel 8088 microprocessor.
• Non-Linear Systems introduces the Kaycomp II for US$1800. It features dual 5.25-inch floppy drives, Z-80 processor, CP/M, and a 9-inch 80-column monochrome screen. [396.16]
• Xebec introduces a 5MB hard disk and controller kit for Apple or CP/M computers, for US$1300. [396.16]
• Xedex Corp. introduces the Baby Blue card (a Z80B processor on a plug-in card), allowing the IBM PC to run standard CP/M programs. Price: US$600.

April

• Mitch Kapor founds Lotus Development Corporation.
• Microsoft establishes a subsidiary company in England.
• Eight months after the introduction of the IBM PC, 50,000 units have been sold.
• Kazuhiko Nishi shows a prototype portable computer to Tandy/Radio Shack. Tandy makes a committment to market the computer. [346.56]
• IBM first offers CP/M-86 for the IBM PC. [346.90]

May

• Future Computing Inc. quote: "CP/M 2.2 is extremely important, and the Z80 chip will live forever because of it." [9]
• Eagle Computer is incorporated. [481.31]
• Vector Graphic hires Frederick Snow as new president and CEO. [202.213]
• Microsoft releases MS-DOS 1.1 to IBM, for the IBM PC. It supports 320KB double-sided floppy disk drives. Microsoft also releases MS-DOS 1.25, similar to 1.1 but for IBM-compatible computers.
• Digital Research releases the MP/M II v2.1 operating system. [444.194]
• Timex Computer Corp. and Sinclair Research Ltd. announce an agreement for Timex to market a 2KB version of the ZX-81 as the Timex/Sinclair 1000. [201.vi] (APR [288.10])

June

• The National Computer Conference is held in Houston, Texas. [339.22] [405.58]
• Epson shows a working prototype computer called the "Rising Star". It is later introduced as the QX-10.
• Coleco announces the ColecoVision video game system. [292]
• Sony Electronics demonstrates its 3.5 inch microfloppy disk system.
• The first IBM PC clone, the MPC, is released by Columbia Data Products.
• Olivetti introduces the M20 microcomputer, with Z8001 processor. [405.60]
• Epson America, Inc. announces the HX-20 (HC-20 in Japan), a notebook-sized computer. It weighs only 3 pounds, and is reported to run on internal batteries for up to 50 hours. It includes 16KB RAM, 32KB ROM, a full-size keyboard, built-in printer, and 20x4 character LCD screen.
• Cromemco Inc. announces the C-10 personal computer. It uses a 4-MHz Z-80A, 64KB RAM, and 80x25 screen, for US$1000. [289.156]
• Wang Labratories Ltd. introduces the Wang Professional Computer, for US$2700. [289.157]
• Commodore Business Machines Inc. introduces the Commodore Max Machine. It has 16-color 40x25 screen capability, for US$180. [289.162]
• Commodore Business Machines introduces the BX256 16-bit multiprocessor professional microcomputer. It includes 256KB RAM, Intel 8088 for CP/M-86, 6509 CPU, 80-column B/W monitor, built-in dual disk drives, and 3-voice sound for US$3000.
• Commodore Business Machines introduces the B128 microcomputer. It features 128KB RAM, 40KB ROM, 6509 CPU, 5.25-inch floppy drive, 3-voice sound chip, cartridge slot, and an 80-column green screen, for US$1700. [289.162] [405.543]
• Commodore Business Machines introduces the P128 microcomputer. It features 128KB RAM, TV connector, 40x25 16-color display, and 320x200 graphics, for US$1000. [289.162]
• Lobo Drives International introduces the Lobo MAX-80 personal computer. It features a 5-MHz Z80 processor, 64KB RAM, serial/parallel ports, interfaces for 5.25-inch and 8-inch floppy drives, hard drive interface, TRS-80 bus slot, CP/M, optional LDOS for TRS-80 emulation, monochrome graphics, and keyboard, for US$800-1000. [289.164] [446.390]
• Altos Computer Systems announces the ACS8600. [289.164]
• Toshiba America introducess its Toshiba T100 personal computer.
• Intel announces the 80186 microprocessor.
• Digital Equipment announces the dual-processor Rainbow 100. It incorporates both Zilog Z-80 and Intel 8088 microprocessors, allowing it to run CP/M as well as CP/M-86 or MS-DOS. Prices start at US$3000.

July

• Bill Gates hires James Towne, a manager from Tektronix, as first president of Microsoft.
• Boston's Computer Museum, devoted to documenting and displaying the evolution of computer technology, is incorporated.
• Timex Computer Corp. begins selling the Timex Sinclair 1000 through over 1000 Timex retail outlets. [288.10]
• Apple Computer releases the Apple Dot Matrix Printer, for US$700. It is a modified C.Itoh printer.

August

• IBM ships the 200,000th IBM PC.
• Microsoft releases Multiplan for the Apple II and the Osborne I.
• Hercules announces the Hercules Graphics Card (HGC or HGA), with monochrome graphics at 720x348 resolution.

September

• Iomega begins production of the Alpha 10, a 10MB 8-inch floppy-disk drive using Bernoulli technology. [444.78]
• On-Line Systems changes its name to Sierra On-Line. [353.362]

October

• Dr. Karel Marha, of the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety, warns that pulsed electric and magnetic fields in display monitors could be harmful. [558.140]
• IBM begins marketing Microsoft Multiplan for the IBM PC.

November

• Drivetec announces the Drivetec 320 Superminifloppy, offering 3.33MB unformatted capacity on a 5.25-inch drive. [444.80]
• Lotus Development announces the Lotus 1-2-3 spreadsheet program at Comdex in Las Vegas.
• Franklin shows off a prototype of the Franklin Ace 1200, an Apple II compatible, at Comdex. [529.196]
• VisiCorp announces the VisiOn graphical user interface at the Fall 1982 Comdex. [346.176] [477.158]
• Compaq Computer introduces the Compaq Portable PC: 4.77MHz 8088, 128KB RAM, 9-inch monochrome monitor, one 320KB 5.25-inch disk drive, price US$3000.
• Satellite Software International introduces the WordPerfect word processing program. [330.108] (OCT [502.49])

December

• Tabor demonstrates a 3.25-inch floppy disk drive, the Model TC500 Drivette. Unformatted capacity is up to 500KB on a single side. [444.72]
• Amdek releases the Amdisk-3 Micro-Floppy-disk Cartridge system. It houses two 3-inch floppy drives designed by Hitachi/Matsushita/Maxell. Price is US$800, without a controller card.
• Satellite Software International ships WordPerfect 2.0 for DOS, for US$500. [330.108] (v2.2 in October [502.49])
• The IEEE Standards Board passes the IEEE 696/S-100 bus standard. [443.278]
• Digital Research announces CP/M+. [443.431]
• Apple Computer becomes the first personal computer company to reach US$1 billion in annual sales.

(month unknown)

• (spring) Microsoft releases GW-BASIC, with advanced graphics capabilities.

(month unknown)

• (spring) Microsoft releases Microsoft COBOL for MS-DOS.

(month unknown)

• (spring) IBM releases Digital Research's CP/M-86 for the IBM PC.

(month unknown)

• (spring) Microsoft ships its Multiplan spreadsheet program to IBM for testing and marketing for the IBM PC.

(month unknown)

• (summer) Microsoft receives its first Macintosh prototype from Apple, for use in developing software for the machine.

(month unknown)

• (late) General Consumer Electronics introduces the Vectrex, the first home gaming system with a built-in 9-inch monochrome vector monitor. It uses a Motorola 68A09 processor. Price: US$200. [292] [338.82] [446.92]

(month unknown)

• Matsushita introduces the National Mybrain 3000 microcomputer. It features an 8088 processor, 96KB RAM, 32KB video RAM, 640x400 graphics, choice of 3-inch, 5.25-inch, and 8-inch floppy drives, and operates MS-DOS and CP/M-86. [447.110]

(month unknown)

• Mitsubishi introduces the Multi 16 microcomputer. It features an 8088 processor, 128KB RAM, 640x400 graphics, 300KB 5.25-inch floppy, and CP/M-86. [447.112]

(month unknown)

• Toshiba introduces the Pasopia 16 (T300 in the United States). It features an 8088 processor, optional 8087 math coprocessor, 192KB RAM, 4KB ROM, MS-DOS, 320KB 5.25-inch floppy, and up to 640x560 graphics.

(month unknown)

• Toshiba introduces the Tosbac UX-300. It features a Toshiba 88000 processor, 512KB RAM, 1MB 8-inch floppy drive, 10MB hard drive, and runs Unix, for US$9300.

(month unknown)

• NEC introduces the Advanced Personal Computer (N5200 in Japan). It features a 5-MHz NEC PD8086 microprocessor, single or dual 1.2MB 8-inch disk drives, 128KB RAM, monochrome or color 12-inch monitor, 80x25 text, 640x475 graphics, and supports CP/M-86 or MS-DOS.

(month unknown)

• NEC introduces the NEC PC-9800. It features an Intel 8086 microprocessor, 128KB RAM, 96KB ROM with NBASIC-86, 640x400 graphics, various floppy drives, and MS-DOS or CP/M-86.

(month unknown)

• Hitachi introduces the BASIC Master 16000 microcomputer. It features an Intel 8088 microprocessor, MS-DOS, 320KB RAM, 640x400 graphics, and two 320KB 5.25-inch floppy drives.

(month unknown)

• Hitachi introduces the PT-1 Personal Terminal. It features MS-DOS, 720x520 graphics, and two 1MB 8-inch floppy drives.

(month unknown)

• Sanyo introduces the MBC-55 microcomputer. It features an Intel 8088 microprocessor, 160KB 5.25-inch floppy drive, 64KB RAM, optional Intel 8087 math coprocessor, and choice of CP/M-86, Concurrent CP/M-86, or MS-DOS.

(month unknown)

• Sord introduces the M-343 microcomputer. It features an Intel 8086 microprocessor, Intel 8087 math coprocessor, Zilog Z80A microprocessor, 640x400 graphics, dual floppy drives, and support of various operating systems.

(month unknown)

• Anritsu introduces the Anritsu Packet II microcomputer. It features a Motorola 68000 microprocessor, two 150KB 5.25-inch floppy drives, and 256KB RAM.

(month unknown)

• Matsushita introduces the National JR-200 personal computer. It features a 6802 microprocessor, 16KB ROM, and 32KB RAM. [447.124]

(month unknown)

• Matsushita introduces the National JR-100 personal computer. It features a 6802 microprocessor, 8KB ROM, and 16KB RAM. [447.124]

(month unknown)

• Matsushita introduces the Tomy 16-bit Graphics Computer. It features a TMS 9995 microprocessor. [447.124]

(month unknown)

• Sord introduces the M5 microcomputer. It features a Zilog Z80A microprocessor, 8KB ROM, 4KB RAM, and 16KB graphics RAM. [447.124]

(month unknown)

• Sanyo introduces the PHC-25 microcomputer. It features 24KB ROM with BASIC, and 22KB RAM. [447.124]

(month unknown)

• AI Electronics introduces the AI-M16 microcomputer. It features an Intel 8086 microprocessor, Intel 8089 I/O processor, optional Intel 8087 math coprocessor, 256KB RAM, and support for various operating systems.

(month unknown)

• Corvus Systems introduces the Corvus Concept microcomputer. It uses aMotorola 68000 processor, 256KB RAM, 120x66 character (560x720 graphics) B/W display, for US$5000.

(month unknown)

• Seiko introduces the 9500 Super Personal Computer. It features an Intel 8086 microprocessor, Intel 8087 math coprocessor, two Intel 8088 microprocessors for I/O and communications control, 256KB RAM, RMX/86 operating system, and 512x480 color graphics.

(month unknown)

• Advanced Micro Devices and Intel sign a technology exchange agreement centering on Intel's x86 microprocessor architecture.

(month unknown)

• Seiko introduces the 8600, using an Intel 8086 microprocessor.

(month unknown)

• Sharp introduces the Sharp X1 microcomputer. It features a Zilog Z80A microprocessor, 64KB RAM, 4KB video RAM, cassette-tape recorder, printer interface, dual joystick interface, sound synthesizer, 80x25 text, and dual 5.25-inch floppy drives. [447.118]

(month unknown)

• Sony introduces the SMC-70 microcomputer. It features a Zilog Z80A microprocessor, two 3.5-inch drives, and optional Intel 8086 microprocessor add-on unit. [447.120]

(month unknown)

• Aval introduces the AVC-777J2 portable microcomputer. It features a Zilog Z80A microprocessor, 64KB RAM, 16KB video RAM, CP/M 2.2, 5-inch monochrome monitor, two 600KB 5.25-inch floppy drives, 5-inch thermal printer, and parallel/serial ports. It weighs 27.5 pounds. [447.122]

(month unknown)

• Aval introduces the AVC-666 microcomputer. It is like the AVC-777J2, but without a monitor and printer. [447.122]

(month unknown)

• Sord introduces the M23P portable microcomputer. It features a Zilog Z80A microprocessor, 128KB RAM, 80x8 LCD display, dual 290KB 3.5-inch disk drives, and weighs 19.8 pounds. [447.12]]

(month unknown)

• Milton Bradley buys General Consumer Electronics. [340.10]

(month unknown)

• Mattel introduces the Intellivision II. [292]

(month unknown)

• An insurance company contracts with programmer Wilton Jones to create a PC word processing program that mimicks Wang word processing. That program becomes MultiMate. [33]

(month unknown)

• Astrovision renames the Bally Computer System as the Astrocade. [292]

(month unknown)

• Victor Business Products releases the Victor 9000 microcomputer. It features 128KB RAM, two 612KB disk drives, two serial ports, two parallel ports, 800x400 green high resolution video, speaker/amplifier, sound digitizer, 5-MHz 8088 processor, CP/M-86 or MS-DOS, for US$5000. [445.216]

(month unknown)

• Vector Graphic introduces the Vector 4 system, leaving them with US$3 million in stock of the Vector 3 system. [202.213]

(month unknown)

• Franklin Computer Corp. unveils the Franklin Ace 1000, the first legal (at the time) Apple II clone. It uses a 1.022 MHz 6502 CPU, and comes with 64KB RAM. [9] [291.10]

(month unknown)

• Andrew Fluegelman begins distributing his PC-Talk communications software, the first copyrighted program distributed as shareware. [315.32]

(month unknown)

• General Videotex Corporation begins the Delphi online service. [218]

(month unknown)

• Robert Lissner begins work on Apple Pie, which would be marketed by Apple Computer as AppleWorks for the Apple II.

(month unknown)

• Businessland opens. [34]

(month unknown)

• Jack Tramiel resigns from Commodore Business Machines, but later takes his position back. [349.30]

(month unknown)

• At the West Coast Computer Faire, Davong Systems introduces its 5MB Winchester Disk Drive for the IBM PC, for US$2000.

(month unknown)

• John Warnock founds Adobe Systems. [346.146]

(month unknown)

• In the first 8 months since its introduction, 11,000 Osborne 1 computers ship. [203.23]

(month unknown)

• Personal Software changes its name to VisiCorp. [346.280]

(month unknown)

• Mouse Systems introduces the first commercial mouse for the IBM PC.

(month unknown)

• Apple Computer announces the Lisa computer to the press.

(month unknown)

• Sanyo introduces the PHC-8000 hand-held computer. It features a NSC-800 CMOS microprocessor, 24KB ROM, 4KB RAM, one-line LCD screen, optional I/O unit PHC-8010 allows connection to video monitor and microcassette recorder and adds 14KB ROM and 22KB RAM. [447.125]

(month unknown)

• Toshiba introduces the Pasopia Mini. It features an 8-bit CMOS microprocessor, 4KB RAM, 20KB ROM including 16KB BASIC, and a one-line LCD screen.

(month unknown)

• NEC introduces the PC-2001 Hand-Held Computer. It features an 8-bit 4-MHz CMOS uPD7907 microprocessor, 36KB ROM, 16KB RAM, serial port, and 40x2 character LCD screen. [447.125]

1983

January

• The Winter Consumer Electronics Show is held, in Las Vegas, Nevada. [300.18]
• Texas Instruments introduces the TI 99/2, using the TI-9995 16-bit microprocessor, 4.2KB RAM, 24KB ROM, 16-color graphics. Price is US$100. [300.39] [444.496]
• Spectra Video introduces the SV318 microcomputer. It features 32KB RAM and 32KB ROM, for US$300. [444.496]
• Extex introduces the 2000 Piggyback Computer, a keyboard add-on for the Atari 2600, with 8KB BASIC and 3KB RAM, for US$100. [444.496]
• Timex announces the Timex/Sinclair 2000, which is the repackaged Sinclair Spectrum. [444.496]
• Apple Computer officially unveils the Lisa computer. It features a 5-MHz 68000 microprocessor, 1MB RAM, 2MB ROM, a 12-inch B/W monitor, 720x364 graphics, dual 5.25-inch 860KB floppy drives, and a 5MB Profile hard drive. It is slow, but innovative. Its initial price is US$10,000. The Lisa is based on the Xerox Star System, and cost Apple Computer US$50 million to develop. It is the first personal computer with a graphical user interface (GUI). The software for it cost Apple Computer US$100 million to develop. "Lisa" stands for Local Integrated Software Architecture.
• AT&T announces Unix System V.
• Mattel shows the Intellivision III at the Consumer Electronics Show. [292]
• Apple Computer introduces the Apple IIe. It features 64KB RAM, Applesoft BASIC, upper/lower case keyboard, seven expansion slots, 40x24 and 80x24 text, 1-MHz 6502 processor, up to 560x192 graphics, 140KB 5.25-inch floppy drive, Apple DOS 3.3, for US$1400.
• Apple Computer releases the Apple Letter Quality Printer, for US$2200. It is a modified Qume printer.
• VisiCorp (formerly Personal Software) sues Software Arts over rights to VisiCalc. [346.110]
• Mattel Electronics demonstrates the Aquarius computer at the Winter CES. It has 4KB RAM, and a Z80A microprocessor. It is expected to sell for US$200. [176.145] [300.40] [444.492]
• Timex introduces the Timex 2000, which is their re-packaged Sinclair Spectrum for the North American market. Price is US$149 for a 16KB model. [300.42]
• Atari introduces the 1200XL home computer, with 64KB RAM, and 256 color capability. Price: US$900. [300.46]
• A full-page ad by Media Distributing offers a 44MB hard drive for US$4400; 22MB for US$3600; 11MB for US$2700.
• Commodore's sales of VIC-20s reaches 1,000,000. [9]
• Commodore introduces the SX-64, the first color portable computer. Weight is 10.5 kg. It incorporates a 5-inch color monitor and one or two 5.25 inch floppy drive. Price is US$1600. [190.81] [349.16] [444.496]
• Time magazine selects the microcomputer as its "Man" of the Year. [9] ("Machine of the Year" [346.264]) (1982 DEC [46])
• Lotus Development ships Lotus 1-2-3 Release 1.0 for MS-DOS. US$1 million was spent on promoting the release.
• Ziff-Davis begins publishing A+ magazine for Apple Computer products.

February

• Microsoft establishes a sibsidiary company in West Germany.

March

• Radio Shack announces its TRS-80 Model 100 portable Computer. It uses an 80c85 processor, and is based on the NEC PC-8201, which is built by Kyoto Ceramics (Kyocera). It features 40x8 text, 240x64 graphics, and runs on four AA alkaline batteries, powering it for about 20 hours. Price is US$800 for 8KB version, or US$1000 for the 24KB version. [9] [346.264] [529.14] (introduced in 1984 [202.199])
• IBM announces the IBM PC XT. It adds a 10 MB hard drive, three more expansion slots, and a serial interface. With 128KB RAM and a 360KB floppy drive, it costs US$5000.
• MS-DOS 2.0 for PCs is announced. It was written from scratch, supporting 10 MB hard drives, a tree-structured file system, and 360 KB floppy disks. [117] [130] [146] [346.264]
• Microsoft creates a publishing division, Microsoft Press.
• The Eagle 1600, the first 8086-based PC, ships. [108]

April

• Microsoft introduces XENIX 3.0.
• Vector Graphic fires Frederick Snow, with Lore Harp taking over again. [202.213]
• Microsoft introduces Multi-Tool Word for DOS (later renamed Microsoft Word) word processing program at Spring Comdex in Atlanta, Georgia.
• John Sculley is hired at Apple Computer as Chief Operating Officer.
• Microsoft gives a "smoke-and-mirrors" demonstration of Interface Manager (later called Windows), which consists entirely of overlapping windows, appearing to be running programs simultaneously.
• Lotus Development ships Lotus 1-2-3 Release 1.0A.

May

• The National Computer Conference is held in Anaheim, California. [529.188]
• Fujitsu shows off first production of 256Kbit memory chips. [529.189]
• Sony Electronics announces the 3.5 inch floppy disk and drive, double-sided, double-density, holding up to 1MB.
• Microsoft France opens its first office, in Paris, France. [346.117]
• Sord introduces the M5 Fun Computer, and the M5 MultiComputer. Both Both feature a Zilog Z80 microprocessor, 8KB ROM, 4KB RAM, keyboard, serial/parallel/cassette ports, and two game controllers, for US$200. [529.190]
• Sord announces the M23 computer, featuring a Z80 processor, 128KB RAM, two disk drives, 640x256 8-color graphics, for US$2200. [529.190]
• Toshiba announces a portable version of the T100 computer, with 64KB RAM, 40x8 LCD screen, modem, and briefcase, for US$1100.
• Toshiba announces the T300 computer, featuring a 16-bit processor, 650x500 8-color graphics, 192KB RAM, 640KB floppy disk drives, seven expansion slots, and IBM PC software compatibility, for US$2500.
• Sharp introduces the PC-5000 computer, featuring a 16-bit Intel 8088 processor, 128KB RAM, 80x8 LCD, 640x80 graphics, and weighing 11 pounds. [529.190]
• Commodore ships the Commodore Executive 64. It features 64KB RAM, detachable keyboard, 5-inch color monitor, 170KB floppy drive, for US$1000. [529.192]
• Anderson Jacobson introduces the AJ Passport portable computer, with 256KB RAM, one or two floppy drives, serial/parallel ports, 300-baud modem, 640x250 graphics, and 7-inch amber display. [529.192]
• Computer Devices shows the Dot computer, with 16-bit Intel 8088 processor, 128KB RAM, Sony 3.5-inch floppy drive, integrated 9-inch green or amber monitor, 1056x254 graphics, and two serial ports, for US$3000. [529.192]
• NCR introduces the Decision Mate V computers, with Zilog Z80 processor, optional Intel 8088 processor, and monochrome or color display, for US$2650-3440. [529.192]
• Honeywell introduces the microSystem 6/10 microcomputer. It is compatible with Honeywell's DPS 6 mainframe family. It ises LSI 6 and Intel 8086 processors, 128KB RAM, dual 5.25-inch drives, display, keyboard, and I/O ports for US$4000. [529.194]
• Radio Shack introduces the TRS-80 Model 4, with 4-MHz Zilog Z80A microprocessor, 16KB RAM, cassette or 180KB 5.25-inch floppy drives, keyboard, 80x24 text 12-inch B/W monitor, optional CP/M, speaker, for US$2000. [368.148] [461.292]
• Microsoft introduces its first mouse, "The Microsoft Mouse", including card and software, for US$200.
• Gavilan introduces the Gavilan Mobile Computer, a full-function portable computer. It features a 16-bit Intel 8088, 80KB RAM, 3-inch microfloppy drive, 66x8 LCD screen, touch pad, keyboard, 300-baud modem, and I/O ports. [336.24] [529.194]

June

• Microsoft quote: "We have a long-term relationship with IBM and have solid plans involving PC-DOS."
• The one millionth Apple II is made. [46] [75] [346.264] [9]
• Apple Computer begins shipping the Lisa.
• Intel quote: "Accessing memory using a segmented architecture holds many advantages over the earlier linear-addressing method."
• Mattel announces the scrapping of plans for the Intellivision III. [292]
• Mattel announces the Entertainment Computer System. [292]
• The Summer Consumer Electronics Show is held, in Chicago, Illinois. [530.200]
• Coleco announces the Coleco Adam, at the Summer CES. The Adam is a Z80-based computer with 80-column SmartWriter daisy wheel printer, two game controllers, 80KB RAM (64KB user RAM, 16KB video RAM), 3 sound channels, 16 color graphics, compatibility with ColecoVision games, 4 MC6801 microprocessors controlling operation of peripherals, full keyboard, and 512KB tape-cartridge device, for US$600. [9] [336.4] [364.43] [202.210] [363.54] [364.43] [530.200] (1984 [176.146])
• Spectra Video shows the SV-328 at the Summer CES. It is like the SV-318, but with a full-stroke keyboard, cursor keys, and 32KB RAM. [530.202]
• Atari shows The Graduate at the Summer CES. It is an add on computer for the Atari 2600 VCS game unit. It features 8KB RAM, keyboard, 16KB ROM with BASIC, and various I/O interfaces. [530.202]
• Rabbit Computer shows the Rabbit RX83 at the Summer CES. It features a Z80A processor, 2KB RAM, keyboard, and 256x192 resolution 8-color graphics. [530.202]
• Tomy shows the Tomy Tutor microcomputer at the Summer CES. It features 16-color 256x192 graphics, 32x24 text, 16KB RAM, 32KB ROM, three sound channels, for US$150. [530.202]
• Video Technology shows a prototype Laser 2001, compatible with ColecoVision and Atari VCS cartridges. It features 16KB ROM, 64KB RAM, 256x192 graphics, four channel sound, and I/O interfaces. [530.202]
• Video Technology shows the Laser 3000, an Apple II workalike microcomputer. It features 24KB ROM, 64KB RAM, 81-key keyboard, 80-column text display, 560x192 graphics, four sound channels, and I/O interfaces. [530.202]
• Unitronics shows the Sonic, an Apple II workalike microcomputer. It uses a TI video display processor chip, 48KB RAM, and built-in wafertape drive. [530.204]
• Taiwan Happy Home Computer Company shows the Multi-System microcomputer, compatible with both the Apple II and the IBM PC. [530.204]
• NEC shows the PC-8201 portable computer for the first time in the US. [530.204]
• Casio shows the FP-200 portable, with 20x8 LCD display, 8KB RAM, and I/O interfaces. [530.204]

July

• Apple Computer officially begins marketing the Lisa computer.
• Tom Mack releases the first version of RBBS for MS-DOS, the first shareware program for running a BBS. [489.105]
• AT&T Bell Labs designs C++. [176.122] [374.12]
• Steve Wozniak returns to Apple Computer.

August

• Jon Shirley replaces James Towne as president of Microsoft.
• A US federal appeals court judge rules that Franklin Computers did violate Apple Computer copyrights on computer programs and the Apple Computer operating system in ROM.

September

• Osborne Computer Corp. files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. [9] [266.280] [370.12]
• Microsoft France releases Multiplan for the Apple II. [346.118]

October

• Atari begins shipping its XL computers. b[364.36]
• Visi Corp releases VisiOn, an integrated software environment for PCs, for US$1765. [348.69] [346.177] (NOV [346.285])
• Coleco begins shipping the Adam. [363.54] [364.36]
• National Semiconductor ships samples of its 6-MHz 32-bit NS32032 microprocessor. [364.37]
• IBM introduces PC-DOS 2.1 with the IBM PCjr.
• IBM announces the IBM 3270 PC, an 8088-based system, for US$4290.
• IBM announces the IBM PC-XT Model 370, with 8088 CPU, 768K RAM, 360K drive, and 10 MB hard drive for US$9000.
• Quote from Spinnaker Software chairman William Bowman: "We're just sitting here trying to put our PCjrs in a pile and burn them. And the damn things won't burn. That's the only thing IBM did right with it - they made it flameproof.". [351.14]
• Tandy/Radio Shack announces the "transportable" TRS-80 Model 4P, for US$1800. It features a 4-MHz Zilog Z80A CPU, 64KB RAM, two 5.25-inch floppy drives, and 9-inch B/W screen. [326.67] [368.148]
• Compaq Computer introduces the Portable Plus.
• Texas Instruments withdraws from the personal computer market.

November

• Microsoft formally announces Microsoft Windows, at the Plaza Hotel in New York. It is promised for release in April, 1984.
• Satellite Software International ships WordPerfect 3.0 for US$500. [330.108] [502.49]
• Satellite Software International ships Personal WordPerfect for US$200. [330.108]
• Borland International releases Turbo Pascal for CP/M and 8086-based computers.
• IBM announces the IBM PCjr, using Intel's 8088, for US$700 for the bare configuration.3.D4]
• Quote from Sierra On-Line founder and president, Ken Williams: "the PCjr is bound to be around for a while". [357.30]
• Microsoft again shows Windows to IBM, and again IBM is not interested.
• Microsoft officially releases Microsoft Word 1.0, for US$375, or US$475 with the Microsoft Mouse.

December

• Apple Computer introduces the redesigned Apple III as the Apple III+, for US$3000.
• Apple Computer releases the Apple ImageWriter for US$695. It is a modified C.Itoh printer.
• Apple unveils the new Macintosh to the press. [372.29]
• 20th Century Fox Videogames abandons the videogame business. [359.9]
• Compaq Computer makes its first public stock offering, raising US$67 million.
• Vernon Buerg releases the first version of List, a popular file-browsing utility for MS-DOS. [489.103]
• In an obscure television market somewhere on the Great Plains, Apple Computer runs its "1984" Macintosh ad, solely to make the ad eligible for awards during 1984.

(month unknown)

• (early) Radio Shack introduces the TRS-80 Pocket Computer, Model PC-4, replacing the PC-1, for US$70. [528.288]

(month unknown)

• (early) Nelma Data Corporation introduces the Persona microcomputer. It features a 4-MHz Z80A, CP/M 2.3, 64KB RAM, dual single-sided 5.25-inch floppy drives, for $3000. [371.47]

(month unknown)

• (summer) Starcom releases Dragon's Lair to arcade centers. It is the first laser-disc based arcade game. [367.79]

(month unknown)

• (end) Atari ceases production of the Atari 5200. [360.20]

(month unknown)

• Atari cancels production of the Atari 1200XL, due to compatibility and other problems. [529.220]

(month unknown)

• Hewlett-Packard begins design work on Precision Architecture.

(month unknown)

• Microsoft marketeer Rowland Hanson convinces Bill Gates to change the name of Interface Manager to Windows.

(month unknown)

• Seymour Rubenstein resigns from MicroPro International. [548.433]

(month unknown)

• IBM and Microsoft begin co-developing OS/2.

(month unknown)

• Dan Silva and others leave Xerox, to form Electronic Arts. [448.27]

(month unknown)

• Texas Instruments drops plans to market the TI 99/2.

(month unknown)

• The CP/M '83 Show is held in San Francisco, California. [529.196]

(month unknown)

• Radio Shack unveils the TRS-80 Model 12 at the CP/M '83 Show. It features a Zilog Z80A processor, 80KB RAM, 82-key keyboard, 1.25MB floppy drive, and software compatibility with the TRS-80 Model II. Price is US$3200. [529.196]

(month unknown)

• Frankline shows an operating Franklin Ace 1200 Apple II compatible at the CP/M '83 Show. It features an 8-bit processor, 128KB RAM, color display, upper/lower-case keyboard, 143KB floppy drive, CP/M card, 80-column text card, for US$2200. [529.196]

(month unknown)

• Digital Research introduces enhanced CP/M-86 for the IBM PC. It includes a printer spooler, and improved graphics. [529.198]

(month unknown)

• Mattel introduces the Aquarius computer, with 4KB RAM, 8KB ROM, Z80A processor, 40x24 text output to a TV, 80x72 block graphics, in 16 colors. Price is US$160. [529.49]

(month unknown)

• Texas Instruments introduces the Compact Computer 40 (CC-40). It uses the 8-bit TMS 70C20 processor, 6KB RAM, 34KB ROM with BASIC, and 31x1 LCD display. It rnus on four AA batteries, lasting up to 200 hours.

(month unknown)

• Borland International is founded by Philippe Kahn.

(month unknown)

• Microsoft shows IBM a raw version of Windows. IBM is not interested as they are already developing what would be called TopView.

(month unknown)

• Wang announces the single in-line memory module (SIMM). b[461.8]

(month unknown)

• Hewlett-Packard unveils the HP 150 microcomputer. It features an 9-MHz Intel 8088 microprocessor, dual 3.5-inch disk drives, 9-inch green HPTouch optical touchscreen, 256KB RAM, and 512x390 graphics. Code-name during development was Magic. [461.36]

(month unknown)

• Philips and Sony develop the CD-ROM, as an extension of audio CD technology. [489.67]

(month unknown)

• Bjarn Stroustrup creates the C++ extension to the C programming language. [132]

(month unknown)

• Morrow Designs introduces the Morrow Micro Decision microcomputer. It features a 4-MHz Zilog Z80A microprocessor, 64KB RAM, two serial ports, 200KB 5.25-inch floppy drive, CP/M v2.2, and separate video terminal. [461.306]

(month unknown)

• Microsoft, SpectraVideo, and 14 Japanese computer companies announce the MSX specifications for low-end, 8-bit home computers systems. [530.24]

(month unknown)

• STM Electronics introduces the Pied Piper Communicator 1 portable computer. It features a Zilog Z80 processor, 64KB RAM, 5.25-inch disk drive, six software packages, and 80x24 text on monitor or TV, for US$1300. [530.30]

End of 1981-1983 - Business Takes Over