FM-7
The FM-7 was a series of personal computers developed and manufactured by Fujitsu.
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Development and Release: The FM-7 series was introduced by Fujitsu in 1982 as a successor to the FM-8 computer. It was designed primarily for the Japanese market, targeting both home users and educational institutions. The first model, the FM-7, was released in 1982, followed by several iterations and upgrades over the years.
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Hardware: The FM-7 series featured hardware specifications typical of personal computers of the early 1980s. It was powered by the Motorola 6809E microprocessor, running at speeds ranging from 1 to 2 MHz. The system typically came with 64 KB of RAM, expandable to 640 KB. It also featured built-in support for color graphics and sound, making it suitable for both productivity and gaming purposes.
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Software Compatibility: The FM-7 series ran an operating system called Human68k, which was based on the TRON project's µITRON operating system specification. It also supported various programming languages and software development tools, making it popular among hobbyists and developers. The FM-7 was compatible with a wide range of software, including productivity applications, educational software, and games.
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Market Performance: The FM-7 series achieved moderate success in the Japanese market, particularly in educational institutions and among hobbyists and enthusiasts. It faced competition from other personal computer platforms, such as the NEC PC-8801 and the Sharp X1 series. Despite its technical capabilities and software library, the FM-7 series struggled to gain significant market share outside of Japan.
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Legacy: The FM-7 series is remembered as an important part of the history of personal computing in Japan. It helped popularize personal computing and digital technology in the country and laid the groundwork for future developments in the industry. Today, the FM-7 series is fondly remembered by retro computing enthusiasts and collectors, who continue to preserve and celebrate its legacy.