Knowra TRS-80 TRS-80 The TRS-80 is a family of personal computers sold by Tandy through Radio Shack, beginning with the Model I in 1977. Its name comes from Tandy Radio Shack and the Zilog Z80 processor used in the original model.
Zilog Z80 : An 8-bit microprocessor introduced by Zilog in 1976 and used in many early personal computers. The Model I used this processor, which inspired the computer family’s name.
TRS-80 Model I : The first TRS-80 personal computer, introduced by Tandy in 1977. Its keyboard, monitor, and Z80-based computer defined the original TRS-80 experience.
Tandy Corporation : An American electronics and retail company that owned Radio Shack and sold the TRS-80 line. Tandy financed and marketed the computers through its retail subsidiary.
TRS-80 Model 4 : A 1983 TRS-80 computer compatible with much Model III software and hardware. It brought greater memory and display capabilities to the established TRS-80 platform.
Apple II : A personal computer introduced by Apple in 1977, known for color graphics and an open expansion architecture. It competed in the same early market with more graphical capability and a higher price.
Cassette tape : Magnetic tape in compact cassettes, used to store and retrieve digital data as audio signals. Early TRS-80 systems commonly used cassette recorders for inexpensive program storage.
TRS-80 Disk BASIC : A version of BASIC for TRS-80 computers that supports disk-based files and programs. It let Model I owners use floppy disks through the expansion interface.
Radio Shack : An American electronics retailer that sold components, equipment, and consumer electronics. Its nationwide stores gave the TRS-80 a direct retail channel and service network.
VisiCalc : A spreadsheet program released in 1979 that recalculated linked values as users changed data. Spreadsheet software showed how personal computers could support practical office work.
Commodore PET : A personal computer introduced by Commodore in 1977 with an integrated keyboard, display, and storage options. Its integrated design contrasted with the Model I’s separate monitor and computer.
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