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Commodore VIC-20

1980

The Commodore VIC-20, released by Commodore International in 1980, was one of the earliest home computers aimed at the mass market. It played a pivotal role in popularizing home computing and laying the groundwork for Commodore's later success with the Commodore 64. Here's an overview of its history:

  1. Development and Release: The development of the VIC-20 began in the late 1970s as a response to the success of Commodore's PET line of computers. The goal was to create a more affordable and user-friendly computer that could appeal to a broader audience. The VIC-20 was officially unveiled at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in January 1980 and was released later that year.

  2. Hardware: The VIC-20 featured a MOS Technology 6502 microprocessor running at 1.02 MHz, 5 kilobytes of RAM (expandable to 32 kilobytes), and a custom graphics and sound chip known as the VIC-I. It also included a built-in keyboard, a cartridge slot for loading software, and ports for connecting peripherals such as joysticks, printers, and cassette tape drives for data storage. The VIC-20 was capable of displaying graphics with a resolution of 176x184 pixels and up to 16 colors.

  3. Software: The VIC-20 launched with a variety of built-in software, including a BASIC programming language interpreter and a suite of productivity applications such as a word processor and a spreadsheet program. Additionally, a wide range of third-party software was developed for the VIC-20, including games, educational software, and utilities. Notable games for the VIC-20 include classics like "Gorf," "Jupiter Lander," and "Pac-Man."

  4. Success and Impact: The VIC-20 was a commercial success, selling millions of units worldwide and becoming the first computer to sell over 1 million units. Its relatively low price, user-friendly design, and strong software library made it popular among consumers, particularly families and students. The VIC-20 also helped establish Commodore as a major player in the home computer market, paving the way for the even more successful Commodore 64.

  5. Legacy: Although the VIC-20 was eventually overshadowed by more advanced computers, its legacy lives on as one of the pioneering home computers of the early 1980s. It played a crucial role in popularizing home computing and making computers more accessible to a wider audience. Today, the VIC-20 is remembered fondly by retro computing enthusiasts, who continue to preserve and celebrate its legacy.

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