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DeepSeek AI - ChickenMan - 28-01-2025
I asked DeepSeek AI ver 3
Can you tell me about the Microbee 128k computer made in Australia
and this is what they came up with -
The Microbee 128K was a popular home and educational computer developed in Australia during the 1980s. It was an evolution of the original Microbee computer, which was first released in 1982 by Applied Technology, a company based in Sydney, Australia. The Microbee series was designed to be affordable and accessible, making it a common sight in Australian schools and homes during that era.
Key Features of the Microbee 128K:
- Processor: The Microbee 128K was powered by a Zilog Z80 CPU, running at 2 MHz or 3.29 MHz, depending on the model. The Z80 was a popular 8-bit processor used in many computers of the time.
- Memory: As the name suggests, the Microbee 128K came with 128 KB of RAM, which was a significant upgrade from earlier models that typically had 16 KB or 32 KB of memory. This made it more capable of running advanced software and applications.
- Storage: The computer typically used cassette tapes for storage, though later models and expansions allowed for floppy disk drives. This was common for home computers in the early to mid-1980s.
- Display: The Microbee 128K featured a built-in monochrome monitor with a resolution of 256 x 192 pixels. The display was green on black, which was typical for computers of that era.
- Operating System: It ran on Microbee's proprietary operating system, which was based on CP/M (Control Program for Microcomputers), a popular OS for 8-bit computers at the time. This made it compatible with a wide range of software.
- Keyboard: The keyboard was built into the unit, and it was known for being relatively sturdy and comfortable to use compared to some other home computers of the era.
- Expandability: The Microbee 128K was designed to be expandable, with ports for additional peripherals and upgrades. This made it a versatile machine for both home and educational use.
The Microbee was particularly popular in Australia due to its affordability and suitability for educational purposes. It was widely used in schools for teaching programming and computer literacy. The computer supported a variety of programming languages, including BASIC, Pascal, and assembly language, making it a versatile tool for learning.
Legacy:
The Microbee series, including the 128K model, holds a special place in the history of Australian computing. It was one of the first locally produced computers to gain widespread adoption and played a significant role in introducing many Australians to computing. Today, the Microbee is remembered fondly by retro computing enthusiasts, and there are still communities dedicated to preserving and using these machines.
If you're interested in retro computing or the history of technology, the Microbee 128K is a fascinating example of how computing evolved in different parts of the world during the 1980s.