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NEC PC-8201A (1983)

PC-8201A · 1983–1985 · handheld

Specifications

Cpu: Intel 80C85, 2.45 MHz
Ram: max: 64 KB internal (two 32 KB banks), plus up to 128 KB via RAM cartridges · base: 16 KB
Ports: RS-232 serial · SIO1/SIO2 connectors · CMT socket (cassette) · Centronics printer port · Bar code reader socket · System expansion slot (RAM cartridges)
Battery: 4 AA batteries, NiCad pack, or AC adapter (6 to 8.5V DC)
Display: 8-line by 40-character monochrome LCD, 240x64 pixel graphics mode, no backlight
Storage: base: 32 KB ROM: OS, Microsoft BASIC interpreter, text editor, and telecom program built in · options: RAM cartridges via the system expansion slot · External cassette recorder via the CMT socket
Weight: 1.7 kg
Os Support: latest: ROM-resident Microsoft BASIC and applications (no loadable OS) · shipped: ROM-resident Microsoft BASIC and applications (no loadable OS)
Release Price: $799

Upgrade paths

RAM

Up to 128 KB via RAM cartridges in the system expansion slot, on top of 64 KB fitted internally · The cartridge slot was the only sanctioned way past the internal 64 KB ceiling; period cartridges are now collector items.

EASY

storage

External cassette recorder via the CMT socket for file storage before floppy support existed · The machine shipped with no built-in persistent storage beyond ROM; cassette or an external NEC floppy unit was the practical option.

EASY