Timex Sinclair 1000

The Timex Computer Corporation will enter the personal computer market with the Timex Sinclair 1000. Sales will begin in July through the more than 100,000 Timex retail outlets, including computer stores, department stores and chains, consumer electronics, jewelry, and drug stores. This step is the result of an agreement between Timex and Sinclair Research Ltd. for Timex to market computers using Sinclair’s technical expertise. Sinclair’s mail order sales of the ZX81 will be phased out as Timex begins its marketing program. The announcement of the Timex entry into this new field and of the agreement with Sinclair was made by Daniel D. Ross, Vice President of Timex Computer Corporation, and affiliate of Timex Corporation, in New York on April 20.

The Timex Sinclair 1000 is basically the Sinclair ZX81, which Timex has already been manufacturing in Dundee. Scotland, but with two major differences. First, the new machine will have 2K RAM instead of the current 1K on the ZX81. Second, the new machine will sell for a suggested retail price of 599.95 instead of the $149.95 for the ZX81. Also featured will be an instruction manual especially written for the first time computer user with step by step instruction and a course in fundamental programming.

Peripherals for the Timex Sinclair 1000 will also be sold by Timex along with the basic machine. The first one available is the 16K RAM expansion module for $49.95 (Sinclair’s current 16K RAM is $99.95). In the fourth quarter of 1982 a printer and a telephone modem are expected to go on sale for $99.95 each. The modem will offer a significant enhancement for many users and will feature: 300 BAUD. standard Bell Telephone jack attachments. and auto-dial capability. It will give a direct tie-in with large computer data services.

Timex plans to supplement the hardware offerings with a range of software including business. personal financial management, education, and entertain- ment. The price range of the programs is expected to be from $9.95 to $19.95. The marketing program will aim at the first-time computer buyer, the educational market, and computer buffs. The potential market for personal computers is estimated at over 90,000,000 customers. In addition to instructional displays in the retail outlets, Timex plans to support the retailers with an extensive service network, a 90-day guarantee, and a national ad campaign beginning in August.