http://beebwiki.mdfs.net/api.php?action=feedcontributions&user=Cverrier&feedformat=atomBeebWiki - User contributions [en]2024-03-29T07:13:47ZUser contributionsMediaWiki 1.30.0-rc.0http://beebwiki.mdfs.net/index.php?title=File:Master512internals.jpg&diff=3698File:Master512internals.jpg2020-09-14T16:35:26Z<p>Cverrier: BBC Master internals</p>
<hr />
<div>BBC Master internals</div>Cverrierhttp://beebwiki.mdfs.net/index.php?title=File:Master512copro.jpg&diff=3697File:Master512copro.jpg2020-09-14T16:33:58Z<p>Cverrier: Master 512 80186 Co-processor daughterboard</p>
<hr />
<div>Master 512 80186 Co-processor daughterboard</div>Cverrierhttp://beebwiki.mdfs.net/index.php?title=Master_512&diff=3696Master 5122020-09-14T16:31:39Z<p>Cverrier: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[category:computer]]<br />
The Acorn Master 512 was an enhanced version of the master 128 that was fitted with an internal 80186 co-processor and 512Kb RAM.<br />
<br />
Externally, the Master 512 was identical to the Master 128.</div>Cverrierhttp://beebwiki.mdfs.net/index.php?title=Master_512&diff=3695Master 5122020-09-14T16:31:10Z<p>Cverrier: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[category:computers]]<br />
The Acorn Master 512 was an enhanced version of the master 128 that was fitted with an internal 80186 co-processor and 512Kb RAM.<br />
<br />
Externally, the Master 512 was identical to the Master 128.</div>Cverrierhttp://beebwiki.mdfs.net/index.php?title=Master_512&diff=3694Master 5122020-09-14T16:28:15Z<p>Cverrier: Created page with "category:computers The Acorn Master 512 was an enhanced version of the master 128 that was fitted with an internal 80186 co-processor and 512Kb RAM."</p>
<hr />
<div>[[category:computers]]<br />
The Acorn Master 512 was an enhanced version of the master 128 that was fitted with an internal 80186 co-processor and 512Kb RAM.</div>Cverrierhttp://beebwiki.mdfs.net/index.php?title=BBC_Micro&diff=3693BBC Micro2020-09-14T16:26:06Z<p>Cverrier: /* Other models */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[Category:Computer]]<br />
[[Image:BBC_owl.png|thumb|The BBC Micro owl logo]]<br />
[[Image:Master512_small.jpg|thumb|The BBC Master 512]]<br />
<br />
:''It became the standard computer in British schools, and a whole generation of British schoolchildren was reared on BBC Micros, and I often bump into people who say this was my first computer, and at that time it also made Britain the most computer-literate nation in the world; we had more computers in schools than any other nation."''<br />
<br />
::Hermann Hauser, Acorn co-founder<ref>http://www.bbcmicro.net/old-8bs/othrdnld/dead.zip</ref><br />
<br />
The '''British Broadcasting Corporation Microcomputer System''', in the form of the Model A, Model B, Model B+ and Master Series, was the main hardware product of [[Acorn Computer|Acorn Computers]] during much of the 1980s. '''BBC Micro''' is the accepted abbreviated name for any of the Acorn computers in this series based on the [[6502]] family of processors and bearing the name of the BBC. In its various forms the BBC Micro was produced from 1981 at the earliest to 1994, when Acorn finally ceased production of the Master Series. The history of the BBC Micro is complex and its role in the evolution of computing is of great significance.<br />
<br />
== Early history ==<br />
<br />
The BBC Micro was the product of the BBC's [[Computer Literacy Project]], an early 1980s initiative designed to educate the British public in anticipation of the emerging home microcomputer age. In 1980, the idea of a new television series to front the campaign was pitched among BBC executives, educational and government departments. Support was found from most involved, and it was decided to specify a particular microcomputer to be sold as part of the project.<br />
<br />
Finalizing the specifications, including resolving important questions such as the choice of processor and default language, took some time for the BBC to work out, and it was not long before several British computer manufacturers were attempting to win the lucrative contract to produce the 'BBC Microcomputer'. At first Newbury and Sinclair both seemed front runners to design and make the system, which originally was to run the [[CP/M]] Z80 operating system. The abortive attempt by Newbury to propose such a computer led to the specification being changed to favour a 6502-based system.<br />
<br />
This change afforded Acorn Computers a sudden advantage, as at the time they had been working on a replacement to their fairly successful 6502-based [[Atom]] called the [[Proton]], which was already fairly close to the new BBC specification. After a period of fevered work at Acorn to add the additional required components, the Proton was demonstrated to the BBC and ultimately accepted as the core design for the BBC Microcomputer. Production began in earnest in 1981 with a target release date of early 1982.<ref>http://www.stairwaytohell.com/articles/cr-BBCMicro-PCW.html</ref><br />
<br />
<br />
== Model A/B ==<br />
<br />
{{main|Model A}}<br><br />
{{main|Model B}}<br />
<br />
The first BBC Micros were the Models A and B, released with much fanfare in early 1982. Powered by a 2Mhz 6502A processor and with 16K and 32K of memory respectively, at the time the capabilities of the Model B far exceeded what most other 8-bit microcomputers were capable of. Both models came supplied with a fully fledged [[MOS|Machine Operating System]] and [[BBC BASIC]], the enhanced version of the BASIC language that included support for advanced programming structures and a built-in 6502 assembler.<br />
<br />
Early models were marked as 'BBC Microcomputer' on the Perspex keyboard strip - this, however, led to a trademark dispute with Brown Boveri Coporation, and the badges were changed to read 'British Broadcasting Corporation' instead.<br />
<br />
All BBC Micros were capable of storing and loading data on tape via the cassette interface, but the Model B was also available fitted with an Econet interface (ANB02) additional 8271 floppy disc interface (ANB03) and with both disc and Econet interfaces (ANB04). Options on the Model A were by default limited to tape-only (ANA01) or Econet (ANA02).<br />
<br />
The Model B's number of I/O and interfacing options was unmatched and some of the possibilities were near revolutionary for an 8-bit microcomputer of the day. Options comprised a cassette interface, RS-423 serial port, advanced [[analogue interface]], floppy disc drive connector, parallel printer port, memory-mapped user port, 1Mhz bus interface, the [[Tube]] connector for high-speed communication with a Second Processor, a choice of RF, composite and RGB video output, and the contemporarily significant option of an [[Econet]] network interface. The Model A lacked most of these options bar Econet due to being built without the necessary connectors and some of the required components.<br />
<br />
The BBC Micro's increased capabilities over the competition were mirrored in the fact that it was more expensive than other 8-bit micros at the time, with the Models A and B retailing for £235 and £335. Due to the costs of production these prices had to be swiftly raised to £299 and £399 respectively. Acorn had expected the cheaper Model A to be the more successful machine in the popular market, with the Model B selling in smaller quantities to more professional users. They were proved wrong, however, in that the Model A was largely perceived as a limited model not worth the £100 saving over its fully capable brother and sold fewer than the Model B. In addition to the fact that a Model A could be upgraded to a Model B at any time by any Acorn dealer at a cost of around £125, this is reflected in the fact that it is not easy to find a Model A without any upgrades or modifications. <br />
<br />
The original BBC Micro was well received and represented by far Acorn's biggest success up to this point. Due to the unique marketing style, the system's flexibility, the availability of Econet and most of all a programme of educational discounts, the computer enjoyed its biggest success in the educational and professional sector, with BBC Micros installed in their thousands in almost every school in Britain. This rise to dominance in the educational market was to have great influence on Acorn during and even after the BBC Micro era. Nonetheless, the system also had impact on the home market.<br />
<br />
While commercial software for the BBC Micro was slow to come at first, Acorn's own [[Acornsoft]] label soon spearheaded its rapid uptake for software development. Due to the system's history, image and user base, a massive library of educational software (including 'edutainment' such as [[Granny's Garden]] as well as interfacing programs for the control of [[LOGO]] turtles and other peripherals) and professional applications such as [[View]] and [[Wordwise]] represented a significant part of the BBC's catalogue during the Model B era. Despite this, it also became home to plenty of beloved games, including [[Chuckie Egg]], [[Exile]], [[Imogen]] and most famously [[Elite]].<br />
<br />
<br />
== Model B+ ==<br />
<br />
{{main|Model B plus}}<br />
<br />
The [[Model B+]] was released in 1984 as a refinement of the original Model B's design. Acorn slightly redesigned the [[motherboard]] and fitted at first 64K and later 128K RAM (via a rather haphazardly fitted additional daughterboard). The most notable change was the ROM sockets, which were moved from their inconvenient position under the keyboard to the upper left of the motherboard. The MOS was updated, noticeably displaying 'Acorn OS' in the place of 'BBC Computer' in the startup message<br />
<br />
The Model B+ was essentially a stop-gap machine to bridge the gap between the Model B and the coming [[Master Series]]. While the B+ did certainly offer a few worthwhile improvements to the Model B's design it still had all the hallmarks of mutton dressed as lamb, including the cheap-looking stickers applied to dress up later 128K models. The market was apparently unimpressed as the B+ did not sell in the quantities of the earlier models.<br />
<br />
<br />
== Master Series ==<br />
<br />
=== Master 128 ===<br />
<br />
{{main|Master 128}}<br />
<br />
The BBC Master Series Microcomputer was first released in 1986 as a true replacement for the Model B. Acorn took the chance to fully redesign the hardware in order to address some of the flaws of the original BBC Micro design. On the outside, the most obvious changes were the extension of the case to accommodate a numeric keypad and a pair of cartridge slots, into which cartridges hosting ROMs could be fitted without taking the computer apart.<br />
<br />
The more important changes were under the lid, however. The Master Series came with both 128K of RAM and the [[Acorn 1770 DFS]] as standard in the base Master 128 model. [[Sideways RAM]] support was also built into the system. New connectors on the motherboard allowed the attachment of an internal Second Processor to the Tube (the Tube host code was also included by default) and the solderless fitting of an integrated Econet module. The [[MOS]] was revised and the addition of a battery-backed CMOS allowed certain boot settings to be saved while the computer was switched off. BASIC was updated to [[6502_BBC_BASIC#BASIC_4.2C_HIBASIC_4.2C_1984|version 4]]. The Master was also supplied with [[Acornsoft]]'s [[View]] word processor and [[Viewsheet]] spreadsheet (previously available separately for the Model B) and the [[Terminal]] and [[Edit]] utilities in ROM. In addition there were various minor graphics enhancements and bug fixes.<br />
<br />
In spite of these refinements, the core BBC Micro architecture remained the same. The Master offered comprehensive backward compatibility with most software and hardware made for earlier models, maintaining a cassette interface and all other I/O interfaces of the Model B, including the external Tube connector. This allowed users an instant library of tried-and-tested additions to the Master.<br />
<br />
=== Master Compact ===<br />
<br />
{{Main|Master Compact}}<br />
<br />
The [[Master Compact]] was added to the Master Series in 1986, not long after the release of the Master 128. Essentially it aimed to redress the impression of many home users of the BBC Micro as a prohibitively professional (and prohibitively expensive) computer by targeting the home market. The Compact was supplied complete with 3½" disc drive and monitor so as to make a ready-to-go home computer package.<br />
<br />
Many features were removed or changed in order to shrink the case to compact proportions and lower the cost. The ROM cartridge slots, Tube, 1Mhz bus, user port, RF output and cassette interface were removed, with the serial port relegated to an optional upgrade. Meanwhile the joystick, printer and disc connectors were changed to sockets incompatible with other BBC Micro peripherals. By default, the only supported filing system was [[ADFS]]. <br />
<br />
Ultimately these changes were the Master Compact's undoing as the removal of the cassette and 5¼" floppy interfaces severely restricted the amount of existing software that could be used with the Compact, since 3½" floppies were still relatively new, more expensive and less common than the 5¼" discs associated with the rest of the Master Series. Consequently the Master Compact was not as popular as the rest of the BBC Micro range and was not the success that Acorn had hoped.<br />
<br />
=== Other models ===<br />
<br />
As well as the basic Master 128 model, Acorn also released several variants to cater for particular fields of endeavour. The [[Master 512]] included an internal [[80186 Second Processor|80186 Co-Processor]] with 512K of onboard RAM. This was capable of running some x86 MS-DOS applications and came with the [[DOS-Plus]] OS and [[GEM]] graphical office suite complete with mouse.<br />
<br />
The [[Master Turbo]] is a Master 128 fitted with an internal [[6502 Second Processor|65C102 Co-Processor]] which was aimed at the high performance market as it could execute many programs at close to double speed. The Master AIV or Domesday System, which was the key hardware component in the [[Domesday Project]], consisted of a Master Turbo fitted with an internal SCSI interface to interface with a laserdisc player containing the Domesday laserdiscs.<br />
<br />
The [[Master ET]] (Econet Terminal) was a cut-down 'thin client' Master designed for use in conjunction with an Econet system. It omitted the disc, cassette and most I/O connections bar Econet in order to reduce costs in the manner of the Model A.<br />
<br />
A further model, the [[Master Scientific]], presumably designed for laboratory work and including an internal 32016 Co-Processor is reported to have been planned, but this system was apparently never produced.<br />
<br />
== Derivative systems ==<br />
<br />
* [[Electron|Acorn Electron]]<br />
<br />
<br />
== Final years ==<br />
<br />
As the BBC Computer Literacy Project became more and more a memory of the distant past the BBC association became less valuable to Acorn. In addition the 6502, as an 8-bit processor, was becoming seriously dated as processors with larger word widths capable of addressing far more memory were rapidly encroaching on the home market, leading to Acorn designing their own [[ARM|Acorn Risc Machine]] architecture that was to power the Archimedes series.<br />
<br />
Early [[Archimedes]] systems did still carry the BBC Microcomputer legend and owl logo but are not properly considered BBC Micros due to the architectural and OS differences. Despite the Archimedes line gradually becoming Acorn's main focus, production of the Master 128 did not cease until 1994, a moment that marks the final retirement of the BBC Micro brand.<br />
<br />
== References ==<br />
<br />
<references/></div>Cverrierhttp://beebwiki.mdfs.net/index.php?title=BBC_Micro&diff=3692BBC Micro2020-09-14T16:25:27Z<p>Cverrier: /* Other models */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[Category:Computer]]<br />
[[Image:BBC_owl.png|thumb|The BBC Micro owl logo]]<br />
[[Image:Master512_small.jpg|thumb|The BBC Master 512]]<br />
<br />
:''It became the standard computer in British schools, and a whole generation of British schoolchildren was reared on BBC Micros, and I often bump into people who say this was my first computer, and at that time it also made Britain the most computer-literate nation in the world; we had more computers in schools than any other nation."''<br />
<br />
::Hermann Hauser, Acorn co-founder<ref>http://www.bbcmicro.net/old-8bs/othrdnld/dead.zip</ref><br />
<br />
The '''British Broadcasting Corporation Microcomputer System''', in the form of the Model A, Model B, Model B+ and Master Series, was the main hardware product of [[Acorn Computer|Acorn Computers]] during much of the 1980s. '''BBC Micro''' is the accepted abbreviated name for any of the Acorn computers in this series based on the [[6502]] family of processors and bearing the name of the BBC. In its various forms the BBC Micro was produced from 1981 at the earliest to 1994, when Acorn finally ceased production of the Master Series. The history of the BBC Micro is complex and its role in the evolution of computing is of great significance.<br />
<br />
== Early history ==<br />
<br />
The BBC Micro was the product of the BBC's [[Computer Literacy Project]], an early 1980s initiative designed to educate the British public in anticipation of the emerging home microcomputer age. In 1980, the idea of a new television series to front the campaign was pitched among BBC executives, educational and government departments. Support was found from most involved, and it was decided to specify a particular microcomputer to be sold as part of the project.<br />
<br />
Finalizing the specifications, including resolving important questions such as the choice of processor and default language, took some time for the BBC to work out, and it was not long before several British computer manufacturers were attempting to win the lucrative contract to produce the 'BBC Microcomputer'. At first Newbury and Sinclair both seemed front runners to design and make the system, which originally was to run the [[CP/M]] Z80 operating system. The abortive attempt by Newbury to propose such a computer led to the specification being changed to favour a 6502-based system.<br />
<br />
This change afforded Acorn Computers a sudden advantage, as at the time they had been working on a replacement to their fairly successful 6502-based [[Atom]] called the [[Proton]], which was already fairly close to the new BBC specification. After a period of fevered work at Acorn to add the additional required components, the Proton was demonstrated to the BBC and ultimately accepted as the core design for the BBC Microcomputer. Production began in earnest in 1981 with a target release date of early 1982.<ref>http://www.stairwaytohell.com/articles/cr-BBCMicro-PCW.html</ref><br />
<br />
<br />
== Model A/B ==<br />
<br />
{{main|Model A}}<br><br />
{{main|Model B}}<br />
<br />
The first BBC Micros were the Models A and B, released with much fanfare in early 1982. Powered by a 2Mhz 6502A processor and with 16K and 32K of memory respectively, at the time the capabilities of the Model B far exceeded what most other 8-bit microcomputers were capable of. Both models came supplied with a fully fledged [[MOS|Machine Operating System]] and [[BBC BASIC]], the enhanced version of the BASIC language that included support for advanced programming structures and a built-in 6502 assembler.<br />
<br />
Early models were marked as 'BBC Microcomputer' on the Perspex keyboard strip - this, however, led to a trademark dispute with Brown Boveri Coporation, and the badges were changed to read 'British Broadcasting Corporation' instead.<br />
<br />
All BBC Micros were capable of storing and loading data on tape via the cassette interface, but the Model B was also available fitted with an Econet interface (ANB02) additional 8271 floppy disc interface (ANB03) and with both disc and Econet interfaces (ANB04). Options on the Model A were by default limited to tape-only (ANA01) or Econet (ANA02).<br />
<br />
The Model B's number of I/O and interfacing options was unmatched and some of the possibilities were near revolutionary for an 8-bit microcomputer of the day. Options comprised a cassette interface, RS-423 serial port, advanced [[analogue interface]], floppy disc drive connector, parallel printer port, memory-mapped user port, 1Mhz bus interface, the [[Tube]] connector for high-speed communication with a Second Processor, a choice of RF, composite and RGB video output, and the contemporarily significant option of an [[Econet]] network interface. The Model A lacked most of these options bar Econet due to being built without the necessary connectors and some of the required components.<br />
<br />
The BBC Micro's increased capabilities over the competition were mirrored in the fact that it was more expensive than other 8-bit micros at the time, with the Models A and B retailing for £235 and £335. Due to the costs of production these prices had to be swiftly raised to £299 and £399 respectively. Acorn had expected the cheaper Model A to be the more successful machine in the popular market, with the Model B selling in smaller quantities to more professional users. They were proved wrong, however, in that the Model A was largely perceived as a limited model not worth the £100 saving over its fully capable brother and sold fewer than the Model B. In addition to the fact that a Model A could be upgraded to a Model B at any time by any Acorn dealer at a cost of around £125, this is reflected in the fact that it is not easy to find a Model A without any upgrades or modifications. <br />
<br />
The original BBC Micro was well received and represented by far Acorn's biggest success up to this point. Due to the unique marketing style, the system's flexibility, the availability of Econet and most of all a programme of educational discounts, the computer enjoyed its biggest success in the educational and professional sector, with BBC Micros installed in their thousands in almost every school in Britain. This rise to dominance in the educational market was to have great influence on Acorn during and even after the BBC Micro era. Nonetheless, the system also had impact on the home market.<br />
<br />
While commercial software for the BBC Micro was slow to come at first, Acorn's own [[Acornsoft]] label soon spearheaded its rapid uptake for software development. Due to the system's history, image and user base, a massive library of educational software (including 'edutainment' such as [[Granny's Garden]] as well as interfacing programs for the control of [[LOGO]] turtles and other peripherals) and professional applications such as [[View]] and [[Wordwise]] represented a significant part of the BBC's catalogue during the Model B era. Despite this, it also became home to plenty of beloved games, including [[Chuckie Egg]], [[Exile]], [[Imogen]] and most famously [[Elite]].<br />
<br />
<br />
== Model B+ ==<br />
<br />
{{main|Model B plus}}<br />
<br />
The [[Model B+]] was released in 1984 as a refinement of the original Model B's design. Acorn slightly redesigned the [[motherboard]] and fitted at first 64K and later 128K RAM (via a rather haphazardly fitted additional daughterboard). The most notable change was the ROM sockets, which were moved from their inconvenient position under the keyboard to the upper left of the motherboard. The MOS was updated, noticeably displaying 'Acorn OS' in the place of 'BBC Computer' in the startup message<br />
<br />
The Model B+ was essentially a stop-gap machine to bridge the gap between the Model B and the coming [[Master Series]]. While the B+ did certainly offer a few worthwhile improvements to the Model B's design it still had all the hallmarks of mutton dressed as lamb, including the cheap-looking stickers applied to dress up later 128K models. The market was apparently unimpressed as the B+ did not sell in the quantities of the earlier models.<br />
<br />
<br />
== Master Series ==<br />
<br />
=== Master 128 ===<br />
<br />
{{main|Master 128}}<br />
<br />
The BBC Master Series Microcomputer was first released in 1986 as a true replacement for the Model B. Acorn took the chance to fully redesign the hardware in order to address some of the flaws of the original BBC Micro design. On the outside, the most obvious changes were the extension of the case to accommodate a numeric keypad and a pair of cartridge slots, into which cartridges hosting ROMs could be fitted without taking the computer apart.<br />
<br />
The more important changes were under the lid, however. The Master Series came with both 128K of RAM and the [[Acorn 1770 DFS]] as standard in the base Master 128 model. [[Sideways RAM]] support was also built into the system. New connectors on the motherboard allowed the attachment of an internal Second Processor to the Tube (the Tube host code was also included by default) and the solderless fitting of an integrated Econet module. The [[MOS]] was revised and the addition of a battery-backed CMOS allowed certain boot settings to be saved while the computer was switched off. BASIC was updated to [[6502_BBC_BASIC#BASIC_4.2C_HIBASIC_4.2C_1984|version 4]]. The Master was also supplied with [[Acornsoft]]'s [[View]] word processor and [[Viewsheet]] spreadsheet (previously available separately for the Model B) and the [[Terminal]] and [[Edit]] utilities in ROM. In addition there were various minor graphics enhancements and bug fixes.<br />
<br />
In spite of these refinements, the core BBC Micro architecture remained the same. The Master offered comprehensive backward compatibility with most software and hardware made for earlier models, maintaining a cassette interface and all other I/O interfaces of the Model B, including the external Tube connector. This allowed users an instant library of tried-and-tested additions to the Master.<br />
<br />
=== Master Compact ===<br />
<br />
{{Main|Master Compact}}<br />
<br />
The [[Master Compact]] was added to the Master Series in 1986, not long after the release of the Master 128. Essentially it aimed to redress the impression of many home users of the BBC Micro as a prohibitively professional (and prohibitively expensive) computer by targeting the home market. The Compact was supplied complete with 3½" disc drive and monitor so as to make a ready-to-go home computer package.<br />
<br />
Many features were removed or changed in order to shrink the case to compact proportions and lower the cost. The ROM cartridge slots, Tube, 1Mhz bus, user port, RF output and cassette interface were removed, with the serial port relegated to an optional upgrade. Meanwhile the joystick, printer and disc connectors were changed to sockets incompatible with other BBC Micro peripherals. By default, the only supported filing system was [[ADFS]]. <br />
<br />
Ultimately these changes were the Master Compact's undoing as the removal of the cassette and 5¼" floppy interfaces severely restricted the amount of existing software that could be used with the Compact, since 3½" floppies were still relatively new, more expensive and less common than the 5¼" discs associated with the rest of the Master Series. Consequently the Master Compact was not as popular as the rest of the BBC Micro range and was not the success that Acorn had hoped.<br />
<br />
=== Other models ===<br />
<br />
As well as the basic Master 128 model, Acorn also released several variants to cater for particular fields of endeavour. The [[Master 512]] included an internal [[80186 Second Processor|80186 Co-Processor]] with 512K of onboard RAM. This was capable of running some x86 MS-DOS applications and came with the [[DOS-Plus]] OS and [[GEM]] graphical office suite complete with mouse.<br />
<br />
The Master Turbo is a Master 128 fitted with an internal [[6502 Second Processor|65C102 Co-Processor]] which was aimed at the high performance market as it could execute many programs at close to double speed. The Master AIV or Domesday System, which was the key hardware component in the [[Domesday Project]], consisted of a Master Turbo fitted with an internal SCSI interface to interface with a laserdisc player containing the Domesday laserdiscs.<br />
<br />
The Master ET (Econet Terminal) was a cut-down 'thin client' Master designed for use in conjunction with an Econet system. It omitted the disc, cassette and most I/O connections bar Econet in order to reduce costs in the manner of the Model A.<br />
<br />
A further model, the Master Scientific, presumably designed for laboratory work and including an internal 32016 Co-Processor is reported to have been planned, but this system was apparently never produced.<br />
<br />
== Derivative systems ==<br />
<br />
* [[Electron|Acorn Electron]]<br />
<br />
<br />
== Final years ==<br />
<br />
As the BBC Computer Literacy Project became more and more a memory of the distant past the BBC association became less valuable to Acorn. In addition the 6502, as an 8-bit processor, was becoming seriously dated as processors with larger word widths capable of addressing far more memory were rapidly encroaching on the home market, leading to Acorn designing their own [[ARM|Acorn Risc Machine]] architecture that was to power the Archimedes series.<br />
<br />
Early [[Archimedes]] systems did still carry the BBC Microcomputer legend and owl logo but are not properly considered BBC Micros due to the architectural and OS differences. Despite the Archimedes line gradually becoming Acorn's main focus, production of the Master 128 did not cease until 1994, a moment that marks the final retirement of the BBC Micro brand.<br />
<br />
== References ==<br />
<br />
<references/></div>Cverrierhttp://beebwiki.mdfs.net/index.php?title=IEEE_Interface&diff=3691IEEE Interface2020-09-14T16:23:29Z<p>Cverrier: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[Category:peripherals]]<br />
The Acorn IEEE Interface was an expansion unit for the BBC Microcomputer - adding IEEE488 compatible interfacing for connecting the BBC Micro to specialist equipment.<br />
<br />
<br />
[[File:The-acorn-ieee-interface-for-the-bbc-microcomputer.jpg]]</div>Cverrierhttp://beebwiki.mdfs.net/index.php?title=IEEE_Interface&diff=3690IEEE Interface2020-09-14T12:53:23Z<p>Cverrier: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[Category:peripherals]]<br />
The Acorn IEEE Interface was an expansion unit for the BBC Microcomputer - adding IEEE compatible interfacing for connecting the BBC Micro to specialist equipment.<br />
<br />
<br />
[[File:The-acorn-ieee-interface-for-the-bbc-microcomputer.jpg]]</div>Cverrierhttp://beebwiki.mdfs.net/index.php?title=File:The-acorn-ieee-interface-for-the-bbc-microcomputer.jpg&diff=3689File:The-acorn-ieee-interface-for-the-bbc-microcomputer.jpg2020-09-14T12:53:07Z<p>Cverrier: IEEE Interface promotional picture</p>
<hr />
<div>IEEE Interface promotional picture</div>Cverrierhttp://beebwiki.mdfs.net/index.php?title=IEEE_Interface&diff=3688IEEE Interface2020-09-14T12:52:31Z<p>Cverrier: Created page with "Category:peripherals The Acorn IEEE Interface was an expansion unit for the BBC Microcomputer - adding IEEE compatible interfacing for connecting the BBC Micro to speciali..."</p>
<hr />
<div>[[Category:peripherals]]<br />
The Acorn IEEE Interface was an expansion unit for the BBC Microcomputer - adding IEEE compatible interfacing for connecting the BBC Micro to specialist equipment.</div>Cverrierhttp://beebwiki.mdfs.net/index.php?title=Music_500&diff=3687Music 5002020-09-14T12:31:17Z<p>Cverrier: /* Characteristics */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[Category:Hardware]][[Category:peripherals]]<br />
<br />
The Acorn Music 500 was a sound and music synthesiser peripheral for the BBC Micro. <br />
<br />
<br />
[[File:BBCMusic500.jpg]]<br />
<br />
<br />
== Characteristics ==<br />
<br />
*Seven position stereo output<br />
*Up to sixteen notes played at once<br />
*Thirteen programmable preset waveforms<br />
*Thirteen programmable envelopes<br />
*Special effects, including ring modulation, frequency modulation<br />
*Pitch variation<br />
*Individual volume control over each instrument<br />
<br />
<br />
A five-pin DIN socket on the rear connected the Music 500 to an amplifier <br />
<br />
<br />
The device was programmed using a dedicated music language called AMPLE, which could be loaded into the BBC Micro from disk or tape.</div>Cverrierhttp://beebwiki.mdfs.net/index.php?title=Music_500&diff=3686Music 5002020-09-14T12:31:03Z<p>Cverrier: /* Characteristics */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[Category:Hardware]][[Category:peripherals]]<br />
<br />
The Acorn Music 500 was a sound and music synthesiser peripheral for the BBC Micro. <br />
<br />
<br />
[[File:BBCMusic500.jpg]]<br />
<br />
<br />
== Characteristics ==<br />
<br />
*Seven position stereo output<br />
*Up to sixteen notes played at once<br />
*Thirteen programmable preset waveforms<br />
*Thirteen programmable envelopes<br />
*Special effects, including ring modulation, frequency modulation<br />
*Pitch variation<br />
*Individual volume control over each instrument<br />
<br />
A five-pin DIN socket on the rear connected the Music 500 to an amplifier <br />
<br />
<br />
The device was programmed using a dedicated music language called AMPLE, which could be loaded into the BBC Micro from disk or tape.</div>Cverrierhttp://beebwiki.mdfs.net/index.php?title=6502_Second_Processor&diff=36856502 Second Processor2020-09-14T12:29:16Z<p>Cverrier: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[Category:Second_Processors]][[Category:Peripherals]]<br />
[[Image:6502SPext.jpg|right]]<br />
[[Image:6502SPint.jpg|right]]<br />
<br />
The 6502 Second Processor was the first piece of hardware to take<br />
advantage of Acorn's remarkable Tube interface, which allowed for the<br />
seamless integration of an additional processor with the BBC Model B (and<br />
later Master) hardware. As well as being the first BBC second processor to<br />
launch, in early 1984, it also introduced the much-loved case known to<br />
Acorn enthusiasts as the 'cheese wedge' which would later house other<br />
second processor systems as well as the Prestel and Teletext adaptors.<br />
<br />
== Hardware ==<br />
Essentially the 6502 Second Processor is a computer system in itself which<br />
uses the BBC machine as a host for its input and output needs. At the core<br />
of the unit is a 3MHz 6502 processor and 64K of integral memory. The unit<br />
attaches to the Tube port on the underside of the BBC Micro via a short<br />
ribbon cable. The 6502 Second Processor was supplied with Acorn DNFS and<br />
Hi-BASIC ROMs.<br />
<br />
[[File:6502SecondProcessor.jpg]]<br />
<br />
== Operation ==<br />
The 6502 Second Processor requires the Tube software to be present in the<br />
host machine. For the Model B, this was supplied in the included DNFS ROM<br />
(the code was built in to the later Master Series' operating systems).<br />
With a 6502 Second Processor installed, the standard operating system and<br />
memory startup message is replaced by 'Acorn TUBE 6502 64K'.<br />
<br />
On bootup the primary programming language interpreter is transferred via<br />
the Tube to occupy the Second Processor's memory. The Tube system allows<br />
the standard Model B's 32K of RAM to be devoted entirely to input/output<br />
tasks such as screen memory, filing system buffers and the like, leaving<br />
the Second Processor's on-board RAM free for program data. The supplied<br />
Hi-BASIC ROM is designed specifically for the 6502 Second Processor and<br />
allows 44K of space for BASIC programs.<br />
<br />
Other BBC Micro language ROMs, including the standard BBC BASIC, can also<br />
be used with the 6502 Second Processor. Even these 'non-Hi' languages not<br />
specifically written to take advantage of the Tube functionality allow a<br />
still-impressive amount of space for program storage that far exceeds the<br />
capacity of an unexpanded Model B.<br />
<br />
When running non-HiBasic, the extra memory can be utilised by relocating<br />
the [[Relocating variables on the 6502 Second Processor|BASIC<br />
variables or program code]].<br />
<br />
In addition, the additional 1MHz of the Second Processor functions to make<br />
programs run significantly faster - sometimes with almost double the speed<br />
- than on a standard single-processor system.<br />
<br />
== Applications ==<br />
Since the 6502 Second Processor was released with an RRP of £199.99, its<br />
adoption was mostly restricted to professional users, and the catalogue of<br />
software designed especially for the unit was limited and mainly<br />
restricted to Acorn's own work.<br />
<br />
Software known to be written specifically for the 6502 Second Processor<br />
includes:<br />
<br />
* Level 2 and 3 Econet fileserver software<br />
* Hi-View (special version of Acornsoft's View word processor allowing 47K of memory for text)<br />
* [[Elite]] (enhanced version of the well-known space trading game with Second Processor support)<br />
<br />
Some software would detect that is was running on the second processor and<br />
relocate themselves to take advantage of the extra memory. For example,<br />
later versions of View do this.<br />
<br />
In theory, most software written for single processor systems that does<br />
not make low-level references to absolute memory locations can function on<br />
the 6502 Second Processor. Tube compatibility was one of the main reasons<br />
that Acorn encouraged users to write assembly language programs using the<br />
in-built OS subroutines (e.g [[OSBYTE]], [[OSFILE]]) rather than acting<br />
directly on input/output registers.<br />
<br />
[[User:Jgharston|Jgharston]] ([[User talk:Jgharston|talk]]) 23:34, 30 January 2016 (UTC)<br />
<br />
[[File:6502tube.gif]]</div>Cverrierhttp://beebwiki.mdfs.net/index.php?title=File:6502tube.gif&diff=3684File:6502tube.gif2020-09-14T12:28:54Z<p>Cverrier: 6502 Second Processor circuit diagram</p>
<hr />
<div>6502 Second Processor circuit diagram</div>Cverrierhttp://beebwiki.mdfs.net/index.php?title=BBC_BASIC&diff=3683BBC BASIC2020-09-14T12:24:57Z<p>Cverrier: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[category:software]][[Category:BASIC]]__NOTOC__<br />
'''BBC BASIC''' was the BASIC Interpreter language that was supplied with every BBC Micro. Originally developed by [[Sophie Wilson|Roger Wilson]]<br />
for the BBC Microcomputer in 1981, it has been ported to several CPUs and a large number of platforms.<br />
<br />
BBC BASIC is considered one of the best implementations of the language ever released.<br />
<br />
==Platforms and versions==<br />
<br />
===[[6502 BBC BASIC|6502]]===<br />
* BASIC I, BBC Micro<br />
* BASIC II, BBC Micro, Acorn Electron, BBC B+<br />
* BASIC III, 6502 external second processor<br />
* BASIC IV, BBC Master series<br />
* BASIC 5, BBC or Master with 6502 second processor<br />
* BAS128, BBC Master series<br />
* Commodore 64<br />
<br />
===[[65816 BBC BASIC|65816]]===<br />
* BASIC IV, ReCo6502<br />
<br />
===[[6809 BBC BASIC|6809]]===<br />
Being developed.<br />
<br />
===[[Z80 BBC BASIC|Z80]]===<br />
* Text-only CP/M<br />
* Torch CP/N<br />
* Acorn CP/M Z80 Tube<br />
* Acorn BBC Z80 Tube<br />
* Amstrad CPC<br />
* Amstrad NC series<br />
* Einstein<br />
* RML480Z<br />
* Sinclair Z88<br />
* Sinclair ZX Spectrum<br />
* Texas Instruments TI-83, TI-84<br />
* Tiki<br />
* Wren<br />
<br />
===[[80x86 BBC BASIC|80x86]]===<br />
* RMNimbus<br />
* PC/DOS<br />
* Master 512<br />
* Victor Sirius<br />
* PC/Windows<br />
* Linux i86<br />
* Android i86<br />
<br />
===[[PDP11 BBC BASIC|PDP-11]]===<br />
* BASIC IV, PDP Tube or Unix<br />
<br />
===[[68000 BBC BASIC|68000]]===<br />
* Apple Macintosh<br />
* Commodore Amiga<br />
* Atari ST<br />
<br />
===[[32000 BBC BASIC|32000]]===<br />
* BASIC IV, 32016 Second Processor<br />
<br />
===[[ARM BBC BASIC|ARM]]===<br />
* BASIC V, ARM Evaluation System<br />
* BASIC V, ARM Development Kit<br />
* BASIC V, ARM Springboard<br />
* BASIC V, Arthur and RISC OS<br />
* BASIC VI, Arthur and RISC OS<br />
<br />
===Portable C===<br />
* Brandy Basic<br />
<br />
==See also==<br />
* [[BASIC Family]]<br />
* [[BASIC Versions]]<br />
<br />
==External links==<br />
* http://mdfs.net/bbcbasic/<br />
* http://www.bbcbasic.org/<br />
* http://www.rtrussell.co.uk/</div>Cverrierhttp://beebwiki.mdfs.net/index.php?title=BBC_BASIC&diff=3682BBC BASIC2020-09-14T12:24:00Z<p>Cverrier: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[category:software]][[Category:BASIC]]__NOTOC__<br />
'''BBC BASIC''' was the BASIC Interpreter language that was supplied with every BBS Micro. Originally developed by [[Sophie Wilson|Roger Wilson]]<br />
for the BBC Microcomputer in 1981, it has been ported to several CPUs and a large number of platforms.<br />
<br />
==Platforms and versions==<br />
<br />
===[[6502 BBC BASIC|6502]]===<br />
* BASIC I, BBC Micro<br />
* BASIC II, BBC Micro, Acorn Electron, BBC B+<br />
* BASIC III, 6502 external second processor<br />
* BASIC IV, BBC Master series<br />
* BASIC 5, BBC or Master with 6502 second processor<br />
* BAS128, BBC Master series<br />
* Commodore 64<br />
<br />
===[[65816 BBC BASIC|65816]]===<br />
* BASIC IV, ReCo6502<br />
<br />
===[[6809 BBC BASIC|6809]]===<br />
Being developed.<br />
<br />
===[[Z80 BBC BASIC|Z80]]===<br />
* Text-only CP/M<br />
* Torch CP/N<br />
* Acorn CP/M Z80 Tube<br />
* Acorn BBC Z80 Tube<br />
* Amstrad CPC<br />
* Amstrad NC series<br />
* Einstein<br />
* RML480Z<br />
* Sinclair Z88<br />
* Sinclair ZX Spectrum<br />
* Texas Instruments TI-83, TI-84<br />
* Tiki<br />
* Wren<br />
<br />
===[[80x86 BBC BASIC|80x86]]===<br />
* RMNimbus<br />
* PC/DOS<br />
* Master 512<br />
* Victor Sirius<br />
* PC/Windows<br />
* Linux i86<br />
* Android i86<br />
<br />
===[[PDP11 BBC BASIC|PDP-11]]===<br />
* BASIC IV, PDP Tube or Unix<br />
<br />
===[[68000 BBC BASIC|68000]]===<br />
* Apple Macintosh<br />
* Commodore Amiga<br />
* Atari ST<br />
<br />
===[[32000 BBC BASIC|32000]]===<br />
* BASIC IV, 32016 Second Processor<br />
<br />
===[[ARM BBC BASIC|ARM]]===<br />
* BASIC V, ARM Evaluation System<br />
* BASIC V, ARM Development Kit<br />
* BASIC V, ARM Springboard<br />
* BASIC V, Arthur and RISC OS<br />
* BASIC VI, Arthur and RISC OS<br />
<br />
===Portable C===<br />
* Brandy Basic<br />
<br />
==See also==<br />
* [[BASIC Family]]<br />
* [[BASIC Versions]]<br />
<br />
==External links==<br />
* http://mdfs.net/bbcbasic/<br />
* http://www.bbcbasic.org/<br />
* http://www.rtrussell.co.uk/</div>Cverrierhttp://beebwiki.mdfs.net/index.php?title=BBC_BASIC&diff=3681BBC BASIC2020-09-14T12:22:47Z<p>Cverrier: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[category:software]][[Category:BASIC]]__NOTOC__<br />
'''BBC BASIC''' was originally developed by [[Sophie Wilson|Roger Wilson]]<br />
for the BBC Microcomputer in 1981. Since then it has been ported to several<br />
CPUs and a large number of platforms.<br />
<br />
==Platforms and versions==<br />
<br />
===[[6502 BBC BASIC|6502]]===<br />
* BASIC I, BBC Micro<br />
* BASIC II, BBC Micro, Acorn Electron, BBC B+<br />
* BASIC III, 6502 external second processor<br />
* BASIC IV, BBC Master series<br />
* BASIC 5, BBC or Master with 6502 second processor<br />
* BAS128, BBC Master series<br />
* Commodore 64<br />
<br />
===[[65816 BBC BASIC|65816]]===<br />
* BASIC IV, ReCo6502<br />
<br />
===[[6809 BBC BASIC|6809]]===<br />
Being developed.<br />
<br />
===[[Z80 BBC BASIC|Z80]]===<br />
* Text-only CP/M<br />
* Torch CP/N<br />
* Acorn CP/M Z80 Tube<br />
* Acorn BBC Z80 Tube<br />
* Amstrad CPC<br />
* Amstrad NC series<br />
* Einstein<br />
* RML480Z<br />
* Sinclair Z88<br />
* Sinclair ZX Spectrum<br />
* Texas Instruments TI-83, TI-84<br />
* Tiki<br />
* Wren<br />
<br />
===[[80x86 BBC BASIC|80x86]]===<br />
* RMNimbus<br />
* PC/DOS<br />
* Master 512<br />
* Victor Sirius<br />
* PC/Windows<br />
* Linux i86<br />
* Android i86<br />
<br />
===[[PDP11 BBC BASIC|PDP-11]]===<br />
* BASIC IV, PDP Tube or Unix<br />
<br />
===[[68000 BBC BASIC|68000]]===<br />
* Apple Macintosh<br />
* Commodore Amiga<br />
* Atari ST<br />
<br />
===[[32000 BBC BASIC|32000]]===<br />
* BASIC IV, 32016 Second Processor<br />
<br />
===[[ARM BBC BASIC|ARM]]===<br />
* BASIC V, ARM Evaluation System<br />
* BASIC V, ARM Development Kit<br />
* BASIC V, ARM Springboard<br />
* BASIC V, Arthur and RISC OS<br />
* BASIC VI, Arthur and RISC OS<br />
<br />
===Portable C===<br />
* Brandy Basic<br />
<br />
==See also==<br />
* [[BASIC Family]]<br />
* [[BASIC Versions]]<br />
<br />
==External links==<br />
* http://mdfs.net/bbcbasic/<br />
* http://www.bbcbasic.org/<br />
* http://www.rtrussell.co.uk/</div>Cverrierhttp://beebwiki.mdfs.net/index.php?title=Teletext_Adaptor&diff=3680Teletext Adaptor2020-09-14T12:20:36Z<p>Cverrier: /* Hardware */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[Category:peripherals]]<br />
The Teletext adaptor for the BBC Micro was an expansion unit that allows the BBC Micro to access content from broadcast teletext services.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== Hardware ==<br />
<br />
The teletext adaptor was supplied in Acorn's standard 'cheese wedge' expansion case. A ribbon cable connected the adaptor to the BBC Micro.<br />
<br />
[[File:AcornTeletextAdapter.jpg]]<br />
<br />
On the rear of the adaptor, a TV aerial socket provided signal input.</div>Cverrierhttp://beebwiki.mdfs.net/index.php?title=Teletext_Adaptor&diff=3679Teletext Adaptor2020-09-14T12:20:26Z<p>Cverrier: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[Category:peripherals]]<br />
The Teletext adaptor for the BBC Micro was an expansion unit that allows the BBC Micro to access content from broadcast teletext services.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== Hardware ==<br />
<br />
The teletext adaptor was supplied in Acorn's standard 'chees wedge' expansion case. A ribbon cable connected the adaptor to the BBC Micro.<br />
<br />
[[File:AcornTeletextAdapter.jpg]]<br />
<br />
On the rear of the adaptor, a TV aerial socket provided signal input.</div>Cverrierhttp://beebwiki.mdfs.net/index.php?title=Teletext_Adaptor&diff=3678Teletext Adaptor2020-09-14T12:18:37Z<p>Cverrier: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[Category:peripherals]]<br />
The Teletext adaptor for the BBC Micro was an expansion unit that allows the BBC Micro to access content from broadcast teletext services.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
[[File:AcornTeletextAdapter.jpg]]</div>Cverrierhttp://beebwiki.mdfs.net/index.php?title=File:AcornTeletextAdapter.jpg&diff=3677File:AcornTeletextAdapter.jpg2020-09-14T12:18:16Z<p>Cverrier: Acorn Teletext Adaptor</p>
<hr />
<div>Acorn Teletext Adaptor</div>Cverrierhttp://beebwiki.mdfs.net/index.php?title=Teletext_Adaptor&diff=3676Teletext Adaptor2020-09-14T12:17:54Z<p>Cverrier: Created page with "Category:peripherals The Teletext adaptor for the BBC Micro was an expansion unit that allows the BBC Micro to access content from broadcast teletext services."</p>
<hr />
<div>[[Category:peripherals]]<br />
The Teletext adaptor for the BBC Micro was an expansion unit that allows the BBC Micro to access content from broadcast teletext services.</div>Cverrierhttp://beebwiki.mdfs.net/index.php?title=Z80_Second_Processor&diff=3675Z80 Second Processor2020-09-14T12:12:45Z<p>Cverrier: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[Category:Second_Processors]][[Category:peripherals]]<br />
{{stub}}<br />
[[Image:Z80SP.jpg|right]]<br />
<br />
An external processor board housed in a cheese wedge box. This processor permitted the BBC Micro to utilise the CP/M operating system and software, and came with 64k of main memory.</div>Cverrierhttp://beebwiki.mdfs.net/index.php?title=6502_Second_Processor&diff=36746502 Second Processor2020-09-14T12:11:58Z<p>Cverrier: /* Applications */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[Category:Second_Processors]][[Category:Peripherals]]<br />
[[Image:6502SPext.jpg|right]]<br />
[[Image:6502SPint.jpg|right]]<br />
<br />
The 6502 Second Processor was the first piece of hardware to take<br />
advantage of Acorn's remarkable Tube interface, which allowed for the<br />
seamless integration of an additional processor with the BBC Model B (and<br />
later Master) hardware. As well as being the first BBC second processor to<br />
launch, in early 1984, it also introduced the much-loved case known to<br />
Acorn enthusiasts as the 'cheese wedge' which would later house other<br />
second processor systems as well as the Prestel and Teletext adaptors.<br />
<br />
== Hardware ==<br />
Essentially the 6502 Second Processor is a computer system in itself which<br />
uses the BBC machine as a host for its input and output needs. At the core<br />
of the unit is a 3MHz 6502 processor and 64K of integral memory. The unit<br />
attaches to the Tube port on the underside of the BBC Micro via a short<br />
ribbon cable. The 6502 Second Processor was supplied with Acorn DNFS and<br />
Hi-BASIC ROMs.<br />
<br />
[[File:6502SecondProcessor.jpg]]<br />
<br />
== Operation ==<br />
The 6502 Second Processor requires the Tube software to be present in the<br />
host machine. For the Model B, this was supplied in the included DNFS ROM<br />
(the code was built in to the later Master Series' operating systems).<br />
With a 6502 Second Processor installed, the standard operating system and<br />
memory startup message is replaced by 'Acorn TUBE 6502 64K'.<br />
<br />
On bootup the primary programming language interpreter is transferred via<br />
the Tube to occupy the Second Processor's memory. The Tube system allows<br />
the standard Model B's 32K of RAM to be devoted entirely to input/output<br />
tasks such as screen memory, filing system buffers and the like, leaving<br />
the Second Processor's on-board RAM free for program data. The supplied<br />
Hi-BASIC ROM is designed specifically for the 6502 Second Processor and<br />
allows 44K of space for BASIC programs.<br />
<br />
Other BBC Micro language ROMs, including the standard BBC BASIC, can also<br />
be used with the 6502 Second Processor. Even these 'non-Hi' languages not<br />
specifically written to take advantage of the Tube functionality allow a<br />
still-impressive amount of space for program storage that far exceeds the<br />
capacity of an unexpanded Model B.<br />
<br />
When running non-HiBasic, the extra memory can be utilised by relocating<br />
the [[Relocating variables on the 6502 Second Processor|BASIC<br />
variables or program code]].<br />
<br />
In addition, the additional 1MHz of the Second Processor functions to make<br />
programs run significantly faster - sometimes with almost double the speed<br />
- than on a standard single-processor system.<br />
<br />
== Applications ==<br />
Since the 6502 Second Processor was released with an RRP of £199.99, its<br />
adoption was mostly restricted to professional users, and the catalogue of<br />
software designed especially for the unit was limited and mainly<br />
restricted to Acorn's own work.<br />
<br />
Software known to be written specifically for the 6502 Second Processor<br />
includes:<br />
<br />
* Level 2 and 3 Econet fileserver software<br />
* Hi-View (special version of Acornsoft's View word processor allowing 47K of memory for text)<br />
* [[Elite]] (enhanced version of the well-known space trading game with Second Processor support)<br />
<br />
Some software would detect that is was running on the second processor and<br />
relocate themselves to take advantage of the extra memory. For example,<br />
later versions of View do this.<br />
<br />
In theory, most software written for single processor systems that does<br />
not make low-level references to absolute memory locations can function on<br />
the 6502 Second Processor. Tube compatibility was one of the main reasons<br />
that Acorn encouraged users to write assembly language programs using the<br />
in-built OS subroutines (e.g [[OSBYTE]], [[OSFILE]]) rather than acting<br />
directly on input/output registers.<br />
<br />
[[User:Jgharston|Jgharston]] ([[User talk:Jgharston|talk]]) 23:34, 30 January 2016 (UTC)</div>Cverrierhttp://beebwiki.mdfs.net/index.php?title=6502_Second_Processor&diff=36736502 Second Processor2020-09-14T12:10:24Z<p>Cverrier: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[Category:Second_Processors]][[Category:Peripherals]]<br />
[[Image:6502SPext.jpg|right]]<br />
[[Image:6502SPint.jpg|right]]<br />
<br />
The 6502 Second Processor was the first piece of hardware to take<br />
advantage of Acorn's remarkable Tube interface, which allowed for the<br />
seamless integration of an additional processor with the BBC Model B (and<br />
later Master) hardware. As well as being the first BBC second processor to<br />
launch, in early 1984, it also introduced the much-loved case known to<br />
Acorn enthusiasts as the 'cheese wedge' which would later house other<br />
second processor systems as well as the Prestel and Teletext adaptors.<br />
<br />
== Hardware ==<br />
Essentially the 6502 Second Processor is a computer system in itself which<br />
uses the BBC machine as a host for its input and output needs. At the core<br />
of the unit is a 3MHz 6502 processor and 64K of integral memory. The unit<br />
attaches to the Tube port on the underside of the BBC Micro via a short<br />
ribbon cable. The 6502 Second Processor was supplied with Acorn DNFS and<br />
Hi-BASIC ROMs.<br />
<br />
[[File:6502SecondProcessor.jpg]]<br />
<br />
== Operation ==<br />
The 6502 Second Processor requires the Tube software to be present in the<br />
host machine. For the Model B, this was supplied in the included DNFS ROM<br />
(the code was built in to the later Master Series' operating systems).<br />
With a 6502 Second Processor installed, the standard operating system and<br />
memory startup message is replaced by 'Acorn TUBE 6502 64K'.<br />
<br />
On bootup the primary programming language interpreter is transferred via<br />
the Tube to occupy the Second Processor's memory. The Tube system allows<br />
the standard Model B's 32K of RAM to be devoted entirely to input/output<br />
tasks such as screen memory, filing system buffers and the like, leaving<br />
the Second Processor's on-board RAM free for program data. The supplied<br />
Hi-BASIC ROM is designed specifically for the 6502 Second Processor and<br />
allows 44K of space for BASIC programs.<br />
<br />
Other BBC Micro language ROMs, including the standard BBC BASIC, can also<br />
be used with the 6502 Second Processor. Even these 'non-Hi' languages not<br />
specifically written to take advantage of the Tube functionality allow a<br />
still-impressive amount of space for program storage that far exceeds the<br />
capacity of an unexpanded Model B.<br />
<br />
When running non-HiBasic, the extra memory can be utilised by relocating<br />
the [[Relocating variables on the 6502 Second Processor|BASIC<br />
variables or program code]].<br />
<br />
In addition, the additional 1MHz of the Second Processor functions to make<br />
programs run significantly faster - sometimes with almost double the speed<br />
- than on a standard single-processor system.<br />
<br />
== Applications ==<br />
Since the 6502 Second Processor was released with an RRP of £199.99, its<br />
adoption was mostly restricted to professional users, and the catalogue of<br />
software designed especially for the unit was limited and mainly<br />
restricted to Acorn's own work.<br />
<br />
Software known to be written specifically for the 6502 Second Processor<br />
includes:<br />
<br />
* Level 2 and 3 Econet fileserver software<br />
* Hi-View (special version of Acornsoft's View word processor allowing 47K of memory for text)<br />
* Elite (enhanced version of the well-known space trading game with Second Processor support)<br />
<br />
Some software would detect that is was running on the second processor and<br />
relocate themselves to take advantage of the extra memory. For example,<br />
later versions of View do this.<br />
<br />
In theory, most software written for single processor systems that does<br />
not make low-level references to absolute memory locations can function on<br />
the 6502 Second Processor. Tube compatibility was one of the main reasons<br />
that Acorn encouraged users to write assembly language programs using the<br />
in-built OS subroutines (e.g [[OSBYTE]], [[OSFILE]]) rather than acting<br />
directly on input/output registers.<br />
<br />
[[User:Jgharston|Jgharston]] ([[User talk:Jgharston|talk]]) 23:34, 30 January 2016 (UTC)</div>Cverrierhttp://beebwiki.mdfs.net/index.php?title=File:6502SecondProcessor.jpg&diff=3672File:6502SecondProcessor.jpg2020-09-14T12:10:08Z<p>Cverrier: 6502 Second Processor</p>
<hr />
<div>6502 Second Processor</div>Cverrierhttp://beebwiki.mdfs.net/index.php?title=6502_Second_Processor&diff=36716502 Second Processor2020-09-14T12:09:44Z<p>Cverrier: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[Category:Second_Processors]][[Category:Peripherals]]<br />
[[Image:6502SPext.jpg|right]]<br />
[[Image:6502SPint.jpg|right]]<br />
<br />
The 6502 Second Processor was the first piece of hardware to take<br />
advantage of Acorn's remarkable Tube interface, which allowed for the<br />
seamless integration of an additional processor with the BBC Model B (and<br />
later Master) hardware. As well as being the first BBC second processor to<br />
launch, in early 1984, it also introduced the much-loved case known to<br />
Acorn enthusiasts as the 'cheese wedge' which would later house other<br />
second processor systems as well as the Prestel and Teletext adaptors.<br />
<br />
== Hardware ==<br />
Essentially the 6502 Second Processor is a computer system in itself which<br />
uses the BBC machine as a host for its input and output needs. At the core<br />
of the unit is a 3MHz 6502 processor and 64K of integral memory. The unit<br />
attaches to the Tube port on the underside of the BBC Micro via a short<br />
ribbon cable. The 6502 Second Processor was supplied with Acorn DNFS and<br />
Hi-BASIC ROMs.<br />
<br />
== Operation ==<br />
The 6502 Second Processor requires the Tube software to be present in the<br />
host machine. For the Model B, this was supplied in the included DNFS ROM<br />
(the code was built in to the later Master Series' operating systems).<br />
With a 6502 Second Processor installed, the standard operating system and<br />
memory startup message is replaced by 'Acorn TUBE 6502 64K'.<br />
<br />
On bootup the primary programming language interpreter is transferred via<br />
the Tube to occupy the Second Processor's memory. The Tube system allows<br />
the standard Model B's 32K of RAM to be devoted entirely to input/output<br />
tasks such as screen memory, filing system buffers and the like, leaving<br />
the Second Processor's on-board RAM free for program data. The supplied<br />
Hi-BASIC ROM is designed specifically for the 6502 Second Processor and<br />
allows 44K of space for BASIC programs.<br />
<br />
Other BBC Micro language ROMs, including the standard BBC BASIC, can also<br />
be used with the 6502 Second Processor. Even these 'non-Hi' languages not<br />
specifically written to take advantage of the Tube functionality allow a<br />
still-impressive amount of space for program storage that far exceeds the<br />
capacity of an unexpanded Model B.<br />
<br />
When running non-HiBasic, the extra memory can be utilised by relocating<br />
the [[Relocating variables on the 6502 Second Processor|BASIC<br />
variables or program code]].<br />
<br />
In addition, the additional 1MHz of the Second Processor functions to make<br />
programs run significantly faster - sometimes with almost double the speed<br />
- than on a standard single-processor system.<br />
<br />
== Applications ==<br />
Since the 6502 Second Processor was released with an RRP of £199.99, its<br />
adoption was mostly restricted to professional users, and the catalogue of<br />
software designed especially for the unit was limited and mainly<br />
restricted to Acorn's own work.<br />
<br />
Software known to be written specifically for the 6502 Second Processor<br />
includes:<br />
<br />
* Level 2 and 3 Econet fileserver software<br />
* Hi-View (special version of Acornsoft's View word processor allowing 47K of memory for text)<br />
* Elite (enhanced version of the well-known space trading game with Second Processor support)<br />
<br />
Some software would detect that is was running on the second processor and<br />
relocate themselves to take advantage of the extra memory. For example,<br />
later versions of View do this.<br />
<br />
In theory, most software written for single processor systems that does<br />
not make low-level references to absolute memory locations can function on<br />
the 6502 Second Processor. Tube compatibility was one of the main reasons<br />
that Acorn encouraged users to write assembly language programs using the<br />
in-built OS subroutines (e.g [[OSBYTE]], [[OSFILE]]) rather than acting<br />
directly on input/output registers.<br />
<br />
[[User:Jgharston|Jgharston]] ([[User talk:Jgharston|talk]]) 23:34, 30 January 2016 (UTC)</div>Cverrierhttp://beebwiki.mdfs.net/index.php?title=Music_500&diff=3670Music 5002020-09-14T12:07:52Z<p>Cverrier: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[Category:Hardware]][[Category:peripherals]]<br />
<br />
The Acorn Music 500 was a sound and music synthesiser peripheral for the BBC Micro. <br />
<br />
<br />
[[File:BBCMusic500.jpg]]<br />
<br />
<br />
== Characteristics ==<br />
<br />
*Seven position stereo output<br />
*Up to sixteen notes played at once<br />
*Thirteen programmable preset waveforms<br />
*Thirteen programmable envelopes<br />
*Special effects, including ring modulation, frequency modulation<br />
*Pitch variation<br />
*Individual volume control over each instrument<br />
<br />
A five-pin DIN socket on the rear connected the Music 500 to an amplifier <br />
<br />
<br />
The device was programmed using a dedicated music language called AMPLE, which could be loaded into the BBC Micro.</div>Cverrierhttp://beebwiki.mdfs.net/index.php?title=File:BBCMusic500.jpg&diff=3669File:BBCMusic500.jpg2020-09-14T12:07:28Z<p>Cverrier: Acorn Music 500</p>
<hr />
<div>Acorn Music 500</div>Cverrierhttp://beebwiki.mdfs.net/index.php?title=Music_500&diff=3668Music 5002020-09-14T12:07:06Z<p>Cverrier: Created page with "Category:HardwareCategory:peripherals The Acorn Music 500 was a sound and music synthesiser peripheral for the BBC Micro. == Characteristics == *Seven position s..."</p>
<hr />
<div>[[Category:Hardware]][[Category:peripherals]]<br />
<br />
The Acorn Music 500 was a sound and music synthesiser peripheral for the BBC Micro. <br />
<br />
<br />
== Characteristics ==<br />
<br />
*Seven position stereo output<br />
*Up to sixteen notes played at once<br />
*Thirteen programmable preset waveforms<br />
*Thirteen programmable envelopes<br />
*Special effects, including ring modulation, frequency modulation<br />
*Pitch variation<br />
*Individual volume control over each instrument<br />
<br />
A five-pin DIN socket on the rear connected the Music 500 to an amplifier <br />
<br />
<br />
The device was programmed using a dedicated music language called AMPLE, which could be loaded into the BBC Micro.</div>Cverrierhttp://beebwiki.mdfs.net/index.php?title=Model_A&diff=3667Model A2020-09-14T11:56:56Z<p>Cverrier: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[Category:Hardware]][[Category:Computer]]<br />
<br />
The first BBC Micros were the Models A and B, released with much fanfare in early 1982. Powered by a 2Mhz 6502A processor and with 16K and 32K of memory respectively, at the time the capabilities of the Model B far exceeded what most other 8-bit microcomputers were capable of. Both models came supplied with a fully fledged Machine Operating System and BBC BASIC, the enhanced version of the BASIC language that included support for advanced programming structures and a built-in 6502 assembler.<br />
<br />
The BBC Model A was created as a lower-cost variant to encourage higher sales outside of the schools sector. It was launched at a price of GBP £235 (compared with GBP £335 for the Model B). This price rose to GBP £299 as Acorn found they couldn't make it at the lower price.<br />
<br />
Early models were marked as 'BBC Microcomputer' on the Perspex keyboard strip - this, however, led to a trademark dispute with Brown Boveri Coporation, and the badges were changed to read 'British Broadcasting Corporation' instead.<br />
<br />
All BBC Micros were capable of storing and loading data on tape via the cassette interface, but the Model B was also available fitted with an Econet interface (ANB02) additional 8271 floppy disc interface (ANB03) and with both disc and Econet interfaces (ANB04). Options on the Model A were by default limited to tape-only (ANA01) or Econet (ANA02).<br />
<br />
The Model B's number of I/O and interfacing options was unmatched and some of the possibilities were near revolutionary for an 8-bit microcomputer of the day. Options comprised a cassette interface, RS-423 serial port, advanced analogue interface, floppy disc drive connector, parallel printer port, memory-mapped user port, 1Mhz bus interface, the Tube connector for high-speed communication with a Second Processor, a choice of RF, composite and RGB video output, and the contemporarily significant option of an Econet network interface. The Model A lacked most of these options bar Econet due to being built without the necessary connectors and some of the required components.<br />
<br />
[[File:BBCMicro.png]]<br />
<br />
The Model A was discontinued after the launch of the Acorn Electron. <br />
<br />
<br />
== Variants ==<br />
Acorn released two versions of the Model A<br />
<br />
* ANA01 - The standard Model A<br />
* ANA02 - Fitted with the optional [[Econet]] interface chips and socket<br />
<br />
== Characteristics ==<br />
<br />
While physically identical, the Model A lacked a number of internal<br />
components and interfaces.<br />
<br />
'''Internal'''<br />
* 16Kb of RAM instead of 32Kb (The empty spaces were fitted with sockets to simplify upgrades)<br />
* 6522 VIA Chip<br />
<br />
'''Rear interface sockets'''<br />
* RGB port<br />
* Serial port<br />
* Analogue port<br />
<br />
'''Underside interface sockets'''<br />
* Tube<br />
* User port<br />
* Centronics (printer) port<br />
* 1MHz Bus<br />
<br />
<br />
[[File:ModelA Motherboard.jpg]]<br />
<br />
<br />
All of these components could be installed to bring the machine up to full Model B specifications. Sockets were present on the board to allow easy installation of the missing chips, and it is quite difficult to find an unmodified Model A now.</div>Cverrierhttp://beebwiki.mdfs.net/index.php?title=Model_B_plus&diff=3666Model B plus2020-09-14T11:53:11Z<p>Cverrier: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[Category:Hardware]][[Category:Computer]]<br />
<br />
The Model B+ was released in 1984 as a refinement of the original Model B's design. Acorn slightly redesigned the motherboard and fitted at first 64K and later 128K RAM (via a rather haphazardly fitted additional daughterboard). The most notable change was the ROM sockets, which were moved from their inconvenient position under the keyboard to the upper left of the motherboard. The MOS was updated, noticeably displaying 'Acorn OS' in the place of 'BBC Computer' in the startup message<br />
<br />
The extra RAM was configured as two blocks - a block of 20 kB, dedicated solely for screen display (shadow RAM) and a block of 12 kB of special "Sideways" RAM.<br />
<br />
The Model B+ also included floppy-disk support as standard, but this caused more problems than the benefit it added. The built-in Western Digital 1770 floppy-disk controller was mapped to different addresses to the popular Intel 8271 controller previously used making it fundamentally incompatible with any software which used direct access techniques to the 8271 controller.<br />
<br />
The Model B+ was essentially a stop-gap machine to bridge the gap between the Model B and the coming Master Series. <br />
<br />
<br />
[[File:ModelBplus.jpg]]</div>Cverrierhttp://beebwiki.mdfs.net/index.php?title=Model_A&diff=3665Model A2020-09-14T09:40:05Z<p>Cverrier: /* Characteristics */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[Category:Hardware]][[Category:Computer]]<br />
<br />
The first BBC Micros were the Models A and B, released with much fanfare in early 1982. Powered by a 2Mhz 6502A processor and with 16K and 32K of memory respectively, at the time the capabilities of the Model B far exceeded what most other 8-bit microcomputers were capable of. Both models came supplied with a fully fledged Machine Operating System and BBC BASIC, the enhanced version of the BASIC language that included support for advanced programming structures and a built-in 6502 assembler.<br />
<br />
The BBC Model A was created as a lower-cost variant to encourage higher sales outside of the schools sector. It was launched at a price of GBP £235 (compared with GBP £335 for the Model B). This price rose to GBP £299 as Acorn found they couldn't make it at the lower price.<br />
<br />
Early models were marked as 'BBC Microcomputer' on the Perspex keyboard strip - this, however, led to a trademark dispute with Brown Boveri Coporation, and the badges were changed to read 'British Broadcasting Corporation' instead.<br />
<br />
All BBC Micros were capable of storing and loading data on tape via the cassette interface, but the Model B was also available fitted with an Econet interface (ANB02) additional 8271 floppy disc interface (ANB03) and with both disc and Econet interfaces (ANB04). Options on the Model A were by default limited to tape-only (ANA01) or Econet (ANA02).<br />
<br />
The Model B's number of I/O and interfacing options was unmatched and some of the possibilities were near revolutionary for an 8-bit microcomputer of the day. Options comprised a cassette interface, RS-423 serial port, advanced analogue interface, floppy disc drive connector, parallel printer port, memory-mapped user port, 1Mhz bus interface, the Tube connector for high-speed communication with a Second Processor, a choice of RF, composite and RGB video output, and the contemporarily significant option of an Econet network interface. The Model A lacked most of these options bar Econet due to being built without the necessary connectors and some of the required components.<br />
<br />
[[File:BBCMicro.png]]<br />
<br />
<br />
== Variants ==<br />
Acorn released two versions of the Model A<br />
<br />
* ANA01 - The standard Model A<br />
* ANA02 - Fitted with the optional [[Econet]] interface chips and socket<br />
<br />
== Characteristics ==<br />
<br />
While physically identical, the Model A lacked a number of internal<br />
components and interfaces.<br />
<br />
'''Internal'''<br />
* 16Kb of RAM instead of 32Kb (The empty spaces were fitted with sockets to simplify upgrades)<br />
* 6522 VIA Chip<br />
<br />
'''Rear interface sockets'''<br />
* RGB port<br />
* Serial port<br />
* Analogue port<br />
<br />
'''Underside interface sockets'''<br />
* Tube<br />
* User port<br />
* Centronics (printer) port<br />
* 1MHz Bus<br />
<br />
<br />
[[File:ModelA Motherboard.jpg]]<br />
<br />
<br />
All of these components could be installed to bring the machine up to full Model B specifications. Sockets were present on the board to allow easy installation of the missing chips, and it is quite difficult to find an unmodified Model A now.</div>Cverrierhttp://beebwiki.mdfs.net/index.php?title=Model_A&diff=3664Model A2020-09-14T09:39:20Z<p>Cverrier: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[Category:Hardware]][[Category:Computer]]<br />
<br />
The first BBC Micros were the Models A and B, released with much fanfare in early 1982. Powered by a 2Mhz 6502A processor and with 16K and 32K of memory respectively, at the time the capabilities of the Model B far exceeded what most other 8-bit microcomputers were capable of. Both models came supplied with a fully fledged Machine Operating System and BBC BASIC, the enhanced version of the BASIC language that included support for advanced programming structures and a built-in 6502 assembler.<br />
<br />
The BBC Model A was created as a lower-cost variant to encourage higher sales outside of the schools sector. It was launched at a price of GBP £235 (compared with GBP £335 for the Model B). This price rose to GBP £299 as Acorn found they couldn't make it at the lower price.<br />
<br />
Early models were marked as 'BBC Microcomputer' on the Perspex keyboard strip - this, however, led to a trademark dispute with Brown Boveri Coporation, and the badges were changed to read 'British Broadcasting Corporation' instead.<br />
<br />
All BBC Micros were capable of storing and loading data on tape via the cassette interface, but the Model B was also available fitted with an Econet interface (ANB02) additional 8271 floppy disc interface (ANB03) and with both disc and Econet interfaces (ANB04). Options on the Model A were by default limited to tape-only (ANA01) or Econet (ANA02).<br />
<br />
The Model B's number of I/O and interfacing options was unmatched and some of the possibilities were near revolutionary for an 8-bit microcomputer of the day. Options comprised a cassette interface, RS-423 serial port, advanced analogue interface, floppy disc drive connector, parallel printer port, memory-mapped user port, 1Mhz bus interface, the Tube connector for high-speed communication with a Second Processor, a choice of RF, composite and RGB video output, and the contemporarily significant option of an Econet network interface. The Model A lacked most of these options bar Econet due to being built without the necessary connectors and some of the required components.<br />
<br />
[[File:BBCMicro.png]]<br />
<br />
<br />
== Variants ==<br />
Acorn released two versions of the Model A<br />
<br />
* ANA01 - The standard Model A<br />
* ANA02 - Fitted with the optional [[Econet]] interface chips and socket<br />
<br />
== Characteristics ==<br />
<br />
While physically identical, the Model A lacked a number of internal<br />
components and interfaces.<br />
<br />
'''Internal'''<br />
* 16Kb of RAM instead of 32Kb (The empty spaces were fitted with sockets to simplify upgrades)<br />
* 6522 VIA Chip<br />
<br />
'''Rear interface sockets'''<br />
* RGB port<br />
* Serial port<br />
* Analogue port<br />
<br />
'''Underside interface sockets'''<br />
* Tube<br />
* User port<br />
* Centronics (printer) port<br />
* 1MHz Bus<br />
<br />
<br />
[[File:ModelA Motherboard.jpg]]<br />
<br />
<br />
All of these components could be installed to bring the machine up to full Model B specifications, and it is quite difficult to find an unmodified Model A now.</div>Cverrierhttp://beebwiki.mdfs.net/index.php?title=File:ModelA_Motherboard.jpg&diff=3663File:ModelA Motherboard.jpg2020-09-14T09:38:57Z<p>Cverrier: BBC Model A - Lid and keyboard removed</p>
<hr />
<div>BBC Model A - Lid and keyboard removed</div>Cverrierhttp://beebwiki.mdfs.net/index.php?title=Model_A&diff=3662Model A2020-09-14T09:36:01Z<p>Cverrier: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[Category:Hardware]][[Category:Computer]]<br />
<br />
The first BBC Micros were the Models A and B, released with much fanfare in early 1982. Powered by a 2Mhz 6502A processor and with 16K and 32K of memory respectively, at the time the capabilities of the Model B far exceeded what most other 8-bit microcomputers were capable of. Both models came supplied with a fully fledged Machine Operating System and BBC BASIC, the enhanced version of the BASIC language that included support for advanced programming structures and a built-in 6502 assembler.<br />
<br />
The BBC Model A was created as a lower-cost variant to encourage higher sales outside of the schools sector. It was launched at a price of GBP £235 (compared with GBP £335 for the Model B). This price rose to GBP £299 as Acorn found they couldn't make it at the lower price.<br />
<br />
Early models were marked as 'BBC Microcomputer' on the Perspex keyboard strip - this, however, led to a trademark dispute with Brown Boveri Coporation, and the badges were changed to read 'British Broadcasting Corporation' instead.<br />
<br />
All BBC Micros were capable of storing and loading data on tape via the cassette interface, but the Model B was also available fitted with an Econet interface (ANB02) additional 8271 floppy disc interface (ANB03) and with both disc and Econet interfaces (ANB04). Options on the Model A were by default limited to tape-only (ANA01) or Econet (ANA02).<br />
<br />
The Model B's number of I/O and interfacing options was unmatched and some of the possibilities were near revolutionary for an 8-bit microcomputer of the day. Options comprised a cassette interface, RS-423 serial port, advanced analogue interface, floppy disc drive connector, parallel printer port, memory-mapped user port, 1Mhz bus interface, the Tube connector for high-speed communication with a Second Processor, a choice of RF, composite and RGB video output, and the contemporarily significant option of an Econet network interface. The Model A lacked most of these options bar Econet due to being built without the necessary connectors and some of the required components.<br />
<br />
[[File:BBCMicro.png]]<br />
<br />
<br />
== Variants ==<br />
Acorn released two versions of the Model A<br />
<br />
* ANA01 - The standard Model A<br />
* ANA02 - Fitted with the optional [[Econet]] interface chips and socket<br />
<br />
== Characteristics ==<br />
<br />
While physically identical, the Model A lacked a number of internal<br />
components and interfaces.<br />
<br />
'''Internal'''<br />
* 16Kb of RAM instead of 32Kb (The empty spaces were fitted with sockets to simplify upgrades)<br />
* 6522 VIA Chip<br />
<br />
'''Rear interface sockets'''<br />
* RGB port<br />
* Serial port<br />
* Analogue port<br />
<br />
'''Underside interface sockets'''<br />
* Tube<br />
* User port<br />
* Centronics (printer) port<br />
* 1MHz Bus<br />
<br />
All of these components could be installed to bring the machine up to full Model B specifications, and it is quite difficult to find an unmodified Model A now.</div>Cverrierhttp://beebwiki.mdfs.net/index.php?title=Model_A&diff=3661Model A2020-09-14T09:35:47Z<p>Cverrier: /* Variants */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[Category:Hardware]][[Category:Computer]]<br />
<br />
The first BBC Micros were the Models A and B, released with much fanfare in early 1982. Powered by a 2Mhz 6502A processor and with 16K and 32K of memory respectively, at the time the capabilities of the Model B far exceeded what most other 8-bit microcomputers were capable of. Both models came supplied with a fully fledged Machine Operating System and BBC BASIC, the enhanced version of the BASIC language that included support for advanced programming structures and a built-in 6502 assembler.<br />
<br />
The BBC Model A was created as a lower-cost variant to encourage higher sales outside of the schools sector. It was launched at a price of GBP £235 (compared with GBP £335 for the Model B). This price rose to GBP £299 as Acorn found they couldn't make it at the lower price.<br />
<br />
Early models were marked as 'BBC Microcomputer' on the Perspex keyboard strip - this, however, led to a trademark dispute with Brown Boveri Coporation, and the badges were changed to read 'British Broadcasting Corporation' instead.<br />
<br />
All BBC Micros were capable of storing and loading data on tape via the cassette interface, but the Model B was also available fitted with an Econet interface (ANB02) additional 8271 floppy disc interface (ANB03) and with both disc and Econet interfaces (ANB04). Options on the Model A were by default limited to tape-only (ANA01) or Econet (ANA02).<br />
<br />
The Model B's number of I/O and interfacing options was unmatched and some of the possibilities were near revolutionary for an 8-bit microcomputer of the day. Options comprised a cassette interface, RS-423 serial port, advanced analogue interface, floppy disc drive connector, parallel printer port, memory-mapped user port, 1Mhz bus interface, the Tube connector for high-speed communication with a Second Processor, a choice of RF, composite and RGB video output, and the contemporarily significant option of an Econet network interface. The Model A lacked most of these options bar Econet due to being built without the necessary connectors and some of the required components.<br />
<br />
[[File:BBCMicro.png]]<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== Variants ==<br />
Acorn released two versions of the Model A<br />
<br />
* ANA01 - The standard Model A<br />
* ANA02 - Fitted with the optional [[Econet]] interface chips and socket<br />
<br />
== Characteristics ==<br />
<br />
While physically identical, the Model A lacked a number of internal<br />
components and interfaces.<br />
<br />
'''Internal'''<br />
* 16Kb of RAM instead of 32Kb (The empty spaces were fitted with sockets to simplify upgrades)<br />
* 6522 VIA Chip<br />
<br />
'''Rear interface sockets'''<br />
* RGB port<br />
* Serial port<br />
* Analogue port<br />
<br />
'''Underside interface sockets'''<br />
* Tube<br />
* User port<br />
* Centronics (printer) port<br />
* 1MHz Bus<br />
<br />
All of these components could be installed to bring the machine up to full Model B specifications, and it is quite difficult to find an unmodified Model A now.</div>Cverrierhttp://beebwiki.mdfs.net/index.php?title=Model_A&diff=3660Model A2020-09-14T09:35:33Z<p>Cverrier: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[Category:Hardware]][[Category:Computer]]<br />
<br />
The first BBC Micros were the Models A and B, released with much fanfare in early 1982. Powered by a 2Mhz 6502A processor and with 16K and 32K of memory respectively, at the time the capabilities of the Model B far exceeded what most other 8-bit microcomputers were capable of. Both models came supplied with a fully fledged Machine Operating System and BBC BASIC, the enhanced version of the BASIC language that included support for advanced programming structures and a built-in 6502 assembler.<br />
<br />
The BBC Model A was created as a lower-cost variant to encourage higher sales outside of the schools sector. It was launched at a price of GBP £235 (compared with GBP £335 for the Model B). This price rose to GBP £299 as Acorn found they couldn't make it at the lower price.<br />
<br />
Early models were marked as 'BBC Microcomputer' on the Perspex keyboard strip - this, however, led to a trademark dispute with Brown Boveri Coporation, and the badges were changed to read 'British Broadcasting Corporation' instead.<br />
<br />
All BBC Micros were capable of storing and loading data on tape via the cassette interface, but the Model B was also available fitted with an Econet interface (ANB02) additional 8271 floppy disc interface (ANB03) and with both disc and Econet interfaces (ANB04). Options on the Model A were by default limited to tape-only (ANA01) or Econet (ANA02).<br />
<br />
The Model B's number of I/O and interfacing options was unmatched and some of the possibilities were near revolutionary for an 8-bit microcomputer of the day. Options comprised a cassette interface, RS-423 serial port, advanced analogue interface, floppy disc drive connector, parallel printer port, memory-mapped user port, 1Mhz bus interface, the Tube connector for high-speed communication with a Second Processor, a choice of RF, composite and RGB video output, and the contemporarily significant option of an Econet network interface. The Model A lacked most of these options bar Econet due to being built without the necessary connectors and some of the required components.<br />
<br />
[[File:BBCMicro.png]]<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== Variants ==<br />
Acorm released two versions of the Model A<br />
<br />
* ANA01 - The standard Model A<br />
* ANA02 - Fitted with the optional [[Econet]] interface chips and socket<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== Characteristics ==<br />
<br />
While physically identical, the Model A lacked a number of internal<br />
components and interfaces.<br />
<br />
'''Internal'''<br />
* 16Kb of RAM instead of 32Kb (The empty spaces were fitted with sockets to simplify upgrades)<br />
* 6522 VIA Chip<br />
<br />
'''Rear interface sockets'''<br />
* RGB port<br />
* Serial port<br />
* Analogue port<br />
<br />
'''Underside interface sockets'''<br />
* Tube<br />
* User port<br />
* Centronics (printer) port<br />
* 1MHz Bus<br />
<br />
All of these components could be installed to bring the machine up to full Model B specifications, and it is quite difficult to find an unmodified Model A now.</div>Cverrierhttp://beebwiki.mdfs.net/index.php?title=Model_B&diff=3659Model B2020-09-14T09:34:08Z<p>Cverrier: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[Category:Hardware]][[Category:Computer]]<br />
The BBC Micro Model B was the most popular variant of the original BBC Micro, despite the higher price.<br />
<br />
<br />
[[File:BBCMicro.png]]<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== Variants ==<br />
<br />
Acorn released four variations of the Model B to market.<br />
<br />
*ANB01 - The standard retail version<br />
*ANB02 - Fitted with the optional Econet interface<br />
*ANB03 - Fitted with the optional floppy disk interface<br />
*ANB04 - Fitted with both disk and Econet interfaces</div>Cverrierhttp://beebwiki.mdfs.net/index.php?title=Model_A&diff=3658Model A2020-09-14T09:33:49Z<p>Cverrier: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[Category:Hardware]][[Category:Computer]]<br />
<br />
[[File:BBCMicro.png]]<br />
<br />
The BBC Model A was created as a lower-cost variant to encourage higher<br />
sales outside of the schools sector. It was launched at a price of GBP £235<br />
(compared with GBP £335 for the Model B). This price rose to GBP £299 as<br />
Acorn found they couldn't make it at the lower price.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== Variants ==<br />
Acorm released two versions of the Model A<br />
<br />
* ANA01 - The standard Model A<br />
* ANA02 - Fitted with the optional [[Econet]] interface chips and socket<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== Characteristics ==<br />
<br />
While physically identical, the Model A lacked a number of internal<br />
components and interfaces.<br />
<br />
'''Internal'''<br />
* 16Kb of RAM instead of 32Kb (The empty spaces were fitted with sockets to simplify upgrades)<br />
* 6522 VIA Chip<br />
<br />
'''Rear interface sockets'''<br />
* RGB port<br />
* Serial port<br />
* Analogue port<br />
<br />
'''Underside interface sockets'''<br />
* Tube<br />
* User port<br />
* Centronics (printer) port<br />
* 1MHz Bus<br />
<br />
All of these components could be installed to bring the machine up to full Model B specifications, and it is quite difficult to find an unmodified Model A now.</div>Cverrierhttp://beebwiki.mdfs.net/index.php?title=Elite&diff=3657Elite2020-09-14T09:24:46Z<p>Cverrier: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[Category:Software]]<br />
Elite was a ground-breaking Role Playing Game for the BBC Microcomputer (later released for other platforms). Released in 1984, Elite was one of the first 'open world' games, offering a huge universe for the player to explore as they wished. The game incorporated multiple game elements, including trading and space-combat, and used 3D wireframe graphics to great effect.<br />
<br />
[[File:EliteBox.jpg]]<br />
<br />
<br />
== Development ==<br />
Elite was written by David Braben and Ian Bell who met at university in Cambridge.<br />
<br />
<br />
== Gameplay ==<br />
The player is placed in the role of a newly qualified privateer pilot of a spacecraft, currently docked at a space station in orbit of the planet Lave (one of hundreds in the galaxy). They are given a small amount of money and are free to then make their own way in the universe. Money can be earned by buying and selling a range of goods (flying to other planets where those goods can be sold for profit).<br />
<br />
Earnings can be used to purchase upgrades for the players ship, including fuel and weapons, or capability improvements such as stronger shields or more cargo capacity. With enough money, you can purchase better ships.<br />
<br />
Travel around the galaxy leads to encounters with other ships. Some are neutral, while others may attack in an attempt to destroy you for your cargo. On rare occasions, you may also encounter the alien 'Thargoids' in their distinctive octagonal ships.<br />
<br />
[[File:EliteScreen.gif]]<br />
<br />
As a new player, you are assigned a ranking of 'Harmless'. As you progress through the game, you can improve your ranking with the ultimate goal of reaching the rank of 'Elite'.<br />
<br />
Navigating around the galaxy involves a mix of normal flight, high speed 'jumps' within a solar system, and Hyperspace (for travel to other systems).<br />
<br />
<br />
== Release & Reception ==</div>Cverrierhttp://beebwiki.mdfs.net/index.php?title=Elite&diff=3656Elite2020-09-14T09:22:01Z<p>Cverrier: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[Category:Software]]<br />
Elite was a ground-breaking Role Playing Game for the BBC Microcomputer (later released for other platforms). Elite was one of the first 'open world' games, offering a huge universe for the player to explore as they wished. The game incorporated multiple game elements, including trading and space-combat, and used 3D wireframe graphics to great effect.<br />
<br />
[[File:EliteBox.jpg]]<br />
<br />
<br />
== Development ==<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== Gameplay ==<br />
The player is placed in the role of a newly qualified privateer pilot of a spacecraft, currently docked at a space station in orbit of the planet Lave (one of hundreds in the galaxy). They are given a small amount of money and are free to then make their own way in the universe. Money can be earned by buying and selling a range of goods (flying to other planets where those goods can be sold for profit).<br />
<br />
Earnings can be used to purchase upgrades for the players ship, including fuel and weapons, or capability improvements such as stronger shields or more cargo capacity. With enough money, you can purchase better ships.<br />
<br />
Travel around the galaxy leads to encounters with other ships. Some are neutral, while others may attack in an attempt to destroy you for your cargo. On rare occasions, you may also encounter the alien 'Thargoids' in their distinctive octagonal ships.<br />
<br />
[[File:EliteScreen.gif]]<br />
<br />
As a new player, you are assigned a ranking of 'Harmless'. As you progress through the game, you can improve your ranking with the ultimate goal of reaching the rank of 'Elite'.<br />
<br />
Navigating around the galaxy involves a mix of normal flight, high speed 'jumps' within a solar system, and Hyperspace (for travel to other systems).<br />
<br />
<br />
== Release & Reception ==</div>Cverrierhttp://beebwiki.mdfs.net/index.php?title=File:EliteScreen.gif&diff=3655File:EliteScreen.gif2020-09-14T09:21:35Z<p>Cverrier: BBC Elite gameplay</p>
<hr />
<div>BBC Elite gameplay</div>Cverrierhttp://beebwiki.mdfs.net/index.php?title=Elite&diff=3654Elite2020-09-14T09:20:54Z<p>Cverrier: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[Category:Software]]<br />
Elite was a ground-breaking Role Playing Game for the BBC Microcomputer (later released for other platforms). Elite was one of the first 'open world' games, offering a huge universe for the player to explore as they wished. The game incorporated multiple game elements, including trading and space-combat, and used 3D wireframe graphics to great effect.<br />
<br />
[[File:EliteBox.jpg]]<br />
<br />
<br />
== Development ==<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== Gameplay ==<br />
The player is placed in the role of a newly qualified privateer pilot of a spacecraft, currently docked at a space station in orbit of the planet Lave (one of hundreds in the galaxy). They are given a small amount of money and are free to then make their own way in the universe. Money can be earned by buying and selling a range of goods (flying to other planets where those goods can be sold for profit).<br />
<br />
Earnings can be used to purchase upgrades for the players ship, including fuel and weapons, or capability improvements such as stronger shields or more cargo capacity. With enough money, you can purchase better ships.<br />
<br />
Travel around the galaxy leads to encounters with other ships. Some are neutral, while others may attack in an attempt to destroy you for your cargo. On rare occasions, you may also encounter the alien 'Thargoids' in their distinctive octagonal ships.<br />
<br />
As a new player, you are assigned a ranking of 'Harmless'. As you progress through the game, you can improve your ranking with the ultimate goal of reaching the rank of 'Elite'.<br />
<br />
Navigating around the galaxy involves a mix of normal flight, high speed 'jumps' within a solar system, and Hyperspace (for travel to other systems).<br />
<br />
<br />
== Release & Reception ==</div>Cverrierhttp://beebwiki.mdfs.net/index.php?title=Elite&diff=3653Elite2020-09-14T09:02:50Z<p>Cverrier: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[Category:Software]]<br />
Elite was a ground-breaking Role Playing Game for the BBC Microcomputer (later released for other platforms).<br />
<br />
[[File:EliteBox.jpg]]</div>Cverrierhttp://beebwiki.mdfs.net/index.php?title=Elite&diff=3652Elite2020-09-14T09:02:23Z<p>Cverrier: Created page with "Software Elite was a ground-breaking Role Playing Game for the BBC Microcomputer (later released for other platforms). File:EliteBox.jpg"</p>
<hr />
<div>[[Category|Software]]<br />
Elite was a ground-breaking Role Playing Game for the BBC Microcomputer (later released for other platforms).<br />
<br />
[[File:EliteBox.jpg]]</div>Cverrierhttp://beebwiki.mdfs.net/index.php?title=File:EliteBox.jpg&diff=3651File:EliteBox.jpg2020-09-14T09:01:43Z<p>Cverrier: Elite for BBC Micro - Packaging front cover</p>
<hr />
<div>Elite for BBC Micro - Packaging front cover</div>Cverrierhttp://beebwiki.mdfs.net/index.php?title=Acorn_Electron&diff=3648Acorn Electron2020-09-13T11:55:43Z<p>Cverrier: /* Expansion */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[Category:Computer]][[Category:Hardware]]<br />
The Acorn Electron was a low cost personal computer released in July 1983 as a budget alternative to the BBC Micro. A reported 300,000 orders were placed in the run up to Christmas that year, and it peaked as the third-best selling micro in the UK, with lifetime sales exceeding that of the BBC Micro.<br />
<br />
The hardware of the BBC Micro was emulated by a single customized ULA chip designed by Acorn. It had feature limitations such as being unable to output more than one channel of sound where the BBC was capable of three-way polyphony and the inability to provide teletext mode. The machine architecture also imposed a substantial speed decrease on applications running from RAM, although ROM applications ran at the same speed.<br />
<br />
[[File:Acorn-electron.png]]<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== Specification ==<br />
<br />
*CPU : 6502A running at 0.5MHz to 2MHz<br />
*RAM : 32Kb<br />
*ROM : 32Kb<br />
<br />
Graphics were similar to the BBC Micro, offering a set of graphic modes for different purposes. Missing was the BBC's Mode 7 'Teletext' mode.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== Expansion ==<br />
Unlike the BBC Micro, the Electron had an expansion bus on the rear of the machine. Acorn released a series of expansion units to provide some of the hardware capabilities of the BBC micro.<br />
<br />
[[Acorn Plus 1]] added an Analogue port, a Printer Port and two general purpose cartridge slots on the top. <br />
<br />
[[File:ElectronPlus1.jpg]]<br />
<br />
One of the easiest modifications that could be carried out on the Acorn Plus 1 Expansion was to replace the Acorn Expansion ROM (v1.00) with the Slogger Expansion ROM (v2.02) which contained several useful utilities which provided the ability to map a joystick to key presses for joystick support in games that didn't directly support them and other features such as support for loading and saving ROM images into Sideways RAM.<br />
<br />
<br />
[[Acorn Plus Plus 2]] was due to add an Econet interface, which would have made it a contender for use in schools, but the Plus 2 was never launched.<br />
<br />
<br />
[[Acorn Plus Plus 3]] added floppy disk support to the Electron using a WD1770 drive controller and and ADFS ROM. There were two versions of the Plus 3 produced: A Single-sided and a Double-sided drive version. Because the WD1770 is capable of single density mode and uses the same IBM360 derived floppy disc format as the Intel 8271 found in the BBC Micro, it was also possible to run a DFS filing system with an alternate ROM, such as the PRES AP4 interface.<br />
<br />
<br />
[[File:Plus 3 fitted.jpg]]</div>Cverrierhttp://beebwiki.mdfs.net/index.php?title=Acorn_Electron&diff=3647Acorn Electron2020-09-13T11:55:33Z<p>Cverrier: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[Category:Computer]][[Category:Hardware]]<br />
The Acorn Electron was a low cost personal computer released in July 1983 as a budget alternative to the BBC Micro. A reported 300,000 orders were placed in the run up to Christmas that year, and it peaked as the third-best selling micro in the UK, with lifetime sales exceeding that of the BBC Micro.<br />
<br />
The hardware of the BBC Micro was emulated by a single customized ULA chip designed by Acorn. It had feature limitations such as being unable to output more than one channel of sound where the BBC was capable of three-way polyphony and the inability to provide teletext mode. The machine architecture also imposed a substantial speed decrease on applications running from RAM, although ROM applications ran at the same speed.<br />
<br />
[[File:Acorn-electron.png]]<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== Specification ==<br />
<br />
*CPU : 6502A running at 0.5MHz to 2MHz<br />
*RAM : 32Kb<br />
*ROM : 32Kb<br />
<br />
Graphics were similar to the BBC Micro, offering a set of graphic modes for different purposes. Missing was the BBC's Mode 7 'Teletext' mode.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== Expansion ==<br />
Unlike the BBC Micro, the Electron had an expansion bus on the rear of the machine. Acorn released a series of expansion units to provide some of the hardware capabilities of the BBC micro.<br />
<br />
[[Acorn Plus 1]] added an Analogue port, a Printer Port and two general purpose cartridge slots on the top. <br />
<br />
[[File:ElectronPlus1.jpg]]<br />
<br />
One of the easiest modifications that could be carried out on the Acorn Plus 1 Expansion was to replace the Acorn Expansion ROM (v1.00) with the Slogger Expansion ROM (v2.02) which contained several useful utilities which provided the ability to map a joystick to key presses for joystick support in games that didn't directly support them and other features such as support for loading and saving ROM images into Sideways RAM.<br />
<br />
<br />
[[Acorn Plus Plus 2]] was due to add an Econet interface, which would have made it a contender for use in schools, but the Plus 2 was never launched.<br />
<br />
<br />
[[Acorn Plus Plus 3]] added floppy disk support to the Electron using a WD1770 drive controller and and ADFS ROM. There were two versions of the Plus 3 produced: A Single-sided and a Double-sided drive version. Because the WD1770 is capable of single density mode and uses the same IBM360 derived floppy disc format as the Intel 8271 found in the BBC Micro, it was also possible to run a DFS filing system with an alternate ROM, such as the PRES AP4 interface.<br />
<br />
[[File:Plus 3 fitted.jpg]]</div>Cverrier