Why Nascom? Because the idea of a low cost computer intended for U.K. hobbysts was originated by an American company called Nasco. However, the board was designed in the U.K. by Shelton Instruments Ltd that, later, also designed and sold the Sig-Net
The minimum configuration featured 2 KB RAM and 1 KB ROM monitor, but the Nascom could be gradually extended into a system that was powerful enough to compete with many home computers of the time, Pet, Apple or Tandy.
Actually, the RAM area was divided into two parts: 1 KB for user program and data and 1 KB for storing characters displayed to the television. The ROM monitor provided basic functions: enter program and data, display memory content and processor registers, save and load programs from a tape recorder.
A whole range of peripherals and expansions were available from independant suppliers, as well as a vast range of software and many user groups. Several magazines dedicated to the Nascom and its relatives, the Gemini computers, were published. Many languages were available including BASIC, PASCAL, C, FORTH, etc.
主要参数编辑本段回目录
NAME | Nascom 1 |
MANUFACTURER | Lucas |
TYPE | Home Computer |
ORIGIN | United Kingdom |
YEAR | 1978 |
BUILT IN LANGUAGE | Monitor |
KEYBOARD | Full stroke 47 keys |
CPU | Z80 |
SPEED | 1 or 2 MHz. |
CO-PROCESSOR | None |
RAM | 1 KB |
VRAM | 1 KB |
ROM | 1 or 2 KB |
TEXT MODES | 48 chars. x 16 lines |
GRAPHIC MODES | None |
COLORS | Monochrome |
SOUND | Unknown |
SIZE / WEIGHT | 30.5 (L) x 19.2 (W) cm. (8 x 12 in) |
I/O PORTS | TV-UHF video interface, selectable serial port (Tape recorder or RS232 or Teletype current loop) |
BUILT IN MEDIA | Cassette tape |
OS | Monitor in ROM |
POWER SUPPLY | Separate power supply unit (sold as option) |
PERIPHERALS | Memory boards and various I/O interfaces |
PRICE | ?99 in kit form |