Pocket-Computer
Pocket computer ( pocket computer ') is the name for BASIC- programmable graphics-capable small computer, which in the early 1980s were brought to market.
History
In 1977, Sharp introduced with the PC -1201 's first programmable pocket calculator under the name POCKET COMPUTER on the market. With the Model EL 5100 was followed by a programmable calculator in landscape mode (2 ½ "× 7" × ½ ABC " " EL 5100 ) This design enabled a single-line LCD display with the first 24 characters, as further innovation, space for (ten). " - keys. the PC -1211 was followed by a QWERTY keyboard. example, the Sharp PC -1211, introduced in 1980 applies today as the first pocket computer.
Until that time, the languages of the programmable calculator were (for example TI -59 ) is always manufacturer or model- bound. Pocket computers could handle vendor-independent programs, which were created in the then very popular programming language BASIC for the first time.
At launch towards the end of 1980, these computers were by the low entry price (from about 330 DM ) and the high availability (the device could be ordered by mail order for example ) is also a cost-effective alternative for computer beginners.
Typical Specifications (1980 )
- RAM: 0.9 KB to 1.9 KB (PC -1211 )
- ROM: 11 KB
- CPU: 256 kHz / 4 bit
- Display: 24-character dot matrix display in LCD technology (5 × 7 matrix), can be represented on the numbers, uppercase letters and special characters, but no graphics. Calculations are shown with a maximum of ten-digit mantissa and two-digit exponent.
- Sound: piezoelectric buzzer for simple beeps, accessible via the BASIC command BEEP
- Keyboard: QWERTY keyboard and numeric keypad, and special function keys
- Power supply: 5.4 volts DC over four mercuric oxide -zinc batteries of the type MR -44 for a service life of about 300 hours.
- (1980 ) from about 330 DM