🏠 Computers Retrogaming Commodore 64

Compute Issue 26 (July 1982)

Updated 21 Jun 2019

We hit the Commodore bonanza with this issue. Commodore made waves in 1982 when they unveiled their third-generation lineup of computers at the Chicago Consumer Electronics Show. The announcement was just a teaser, but it revealed the ambitious direction Commodore planned to take following the success of their PET and VIC-20 microcomputers. The new lineup was impressive, featuring models like the BX256, B128, the "P" Series, the C64, and the MAX. Each of these machines represented a leap forward, promising to build on Commodore's reputation for innovative and accessible computing. Stay tuned as we dive into the details of these exciting new additions to the Commodore family.

Chicago Consumer Electronics Show - Commodore's Third Generation

The microcomputer we are least familiar with is the Commodore Max. For some reason we think that it should have been called MAXX as the XX gives it more max. But in looking up the specs for the Commodore Max should have called the Commodore Min as it is a stripped down introductory version of the C64. Apparently Commodore only sold these machines in Japan as an introductory C64. The C64 would forever hold code and settings for this very short lived machine so it could be called compatible.


Image: Commodore Max in Japanese livery
Source: Wikimedia

Commodore BX-256 is probably a German only machine built for business. It is a great looking machine and looks different to the shoe boxes available at the time. I recommend a look at this site for more details. The official Commodore marketing material for the BX256-80 is here.

download here

(Internet Archive)

The attached article from Compute! magazine in July 1982 highlights the unveiling of Commodore's third-generation lineup at the Chicago Consumer Electronics Show. This lineup marked a significant milestone in the evolution of personal computing, demonstrating Commodore's innovation and ambition.

The BX256 and B128 were advanced models featuring substantial RAM (256K and 128K respectively) and IEEE-488 interfaces, designed for more demanding computing tasks. These models catered to users requiring powerful systems for business or scientific applications, positioning Commodore as a serious player in the high-performance computing market.

The "P" Series offered a blend of performance and versatility, with 128K RAM and impressive graphics resolution (320x200). Its CP/M compatibility made it a versatile choice for users needing both business and recreational capabilities.

The Commodore 64 (C64), perhaps the most iconic, revolutionized the home computer market with its affordable price of $595, robust 64K RAM, and support for VIC peripherals. It became a bestseller, renowned for its graphical capabilities and extensive software library, fostering a vibrant community of developers and enthusiasts.

Finally, the MAX, with its BASIC Cartridge and planned retail price of $179.95, was targeted at entry-level users. Despite its lower profile, it contributed to Commodore's broad appeal by making computing accessible to a wider audience.

Each model in this lineup played a crucial role in solidifying Commodore's legacy, driving technological advancements, and shaping the personal computing landscape of the 1980s.

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