Exidy Sorcerer

The Exidy Sorcerer was a home computer introduced by Exidy, Inc. in 1978.

1. Development and Release: The Exidy Sorcerer was developed as a home computer system by Exidy, Inc., a company primarily known for its arcade games. The Sorcerer was introduced in 1978 and was marketed as a versatile and affordable option for home computing enthusiasts.

2. Hardware: The Exidy Sorcerer was based on the Zilog Z80 microprocessor running at 1.78 MHz. It featured 4 KB of RAM (expandable to 48 KB), as well as built-in BASIC programming language support. The system also included various ports for connecting peripherals such as cassette tape drives, printers, and floppy disk drives.

3. Software Compatibility: The Exidy Sorcerer ran the Microsoft BASIC programming language, which allowed users to write and run their own programs. It also supported a variety of software applications and games developed for the platform. Additionally, the Sorcerer was compatible with CP/M, an operating system popular at the time for microcomputers, which expanded its software compatibility.

4. Market Performance: The Exidy Sorcerer faced stiff competition in the home computer market from other systems such as the Apple II, Commodore PET, and TRS-80. While it gained a following among hobbyists and early adopters, it struggled to achieve widespread commercial success. Exidy primarily marketed the Sorcerer to educational institutions and small businesses, where it found some success as a budget-friendly computing solution.

5. Legacy: Despite its limited commercial success, the Exidy Sorcerer remains an important part of computing history. It represented Exidy's foray into the home computer market and showcased the versatility and potential of microcomputers for personal and professional use. Today, the Exidy Sorcerer is remembered fondly by retro computing enthusiasts, who continue to preserve and celebrate its legacy.