What a relief! After putting the July/Aug QZX together I was able to take a week off, as far as QZX goes that is. First, for you fledglings still new to computers, that was NOT an aerial map in QZX (note no swimming pools, crooked roads, etc). It was a much magnified photo of a computer chip. The chip size is typically 5mm by 5mm. If you ever have the chance to get a tour of a semiconductor plant, DO IT. It’s mind boggling but well worth the confusion.
Well, by now most of you have heard about the TS1500, and the TS2000 color computer. A check of the local stores indicates no one knows about the 1500 out here, and the 1000 is still selling well. I thought I would provide a few details on the 1500 (along with my predictions). Predictions first: the TS1000 will ‘go away’ with introduction of the TS1500 once drastic discounting takes place. After all, the 1000 will bottom out at $30 (+$30 for 16K RAM), the 1500 retails for $80 (includes internal 16K), and will be discounted as competition hits. I have seen one ad already for $64.95. Everyone will opt for the neat 1500. Second, I don’t think the 2000 color computer will do as well as most predict. Those that think color computing is all that great have to first spring for a color TV since most households don’t have spares floating around. When you come up with that much money, the bank will loan enough additional for a more advanced color computer (no names mentioned). All the existing 1000 software is down the drain too “if you insist on color”. When I get the urge to go color, I plan to look into the COLORSIN81 color add-on for my ZX81. I saw construction article somewhere and mention of another one in the next issue of something. (Kinda confusing? ) I think the kit price is about $160.
Now for a few details on the TS1500 in case you haven’t heard. It will have an improved keyboard, like the 2000 (without the Spectrum’s ‘squashy feel’). It has 16K inside and existing RAM packs can be used to get 32k. It has improved filtering to help tape loading/saving, a CMOS ULA chip to cut down on heat, an improved ROM with known bugs removed, provisions for ROM cartridges, and 8 bit bank switching to allow 64 megabytes of memory addressing. Best of all, almost all software & hardware for the 1000 will work! I predict it will be a definite winner.
Some ideas for QZX articles: (1) A utility ‘file management’ program to keep track of all the ZX computer articles/programs. (IE. Name, brief discr., source, have (Y/N), which tape?, etc). (2) Music/morse code using the TV sound output. (3) Serial printer/RTTY machine interface and software. So, you industrious, retired, ambitious ones get busy, here’s your chance to get famous. 73, Bo..W4GHV.