Casio PB-1000

The Casio PB -1000 is a handheld computer by Casio from the year 1987. It has the functions of a calculator with formula memory and a Memo database. He is also programmable in BASIC and Assembler. Programs and sequential files can be accessed via a proprietary file system. The device weighs about 0.5 kilograms and has the approximate dimensions of an average paperback book. Usually, it is powered by three 1.5 V batteries; the duration is indicated by 55 to 100 hours.

The computer features a full alphabetic keyboard and a numeric keypad. A shift key allows playback of small and capital letters. About a feature button 34 arithmetic and string functions can be called; by means of a conversion key the alphabetic keys can also be used for quick access to BASIC commands.

The PB -1000 has the ASCII character set, about Far Eastern characters and a selection of graphics frame. The character set can be redefined by BASIC commands.

The small LCD screen shows 4 lines of 32 characters; a character is represented with 6x8 pixels. The representation thus extends over 192 x 32 pixels. An even more special for the built in feature is the 16 touch-screen areas that span the screen in a 4x4 grid. These can also be used in your own programs.

The computer is equipped with a memory of 8 KB RAM which can be expanded to 40 KB. About a lateral port (RS- 232C ) can be connected peripherals ( Datasette, 3.5 inch floppy drive); There is also a cradle with further ports and an external power supply, the PB -1000 can be attached.