Re: Apple II history

[lcornel@cello.gina.calstate.edu (Louis Cornelio)]

Tammy Barr <barrt@ucs.orst.edu> writes:
> When was the first Apple II computer introduced?  


OK, for a little trip down memory lane, here is a press release:

 -=-=-=-
 
 You've just run out of excuses for not owning a personal computer.
 
 Clear the kitchen table. Bring in the color TV. Plug in your new Apple
 II*, and connect any standard cassette recorder/player. Now you're
 ready for an evening of discovery in the new world of personal
 computers.
 
 Only Apple II makes it that easy. It's a complete, ready to use
 computer, not a kit. At $1298, it includes video graphics in 15
 colors. It includes 8K bytes ROM and 4K bytes RAM - easily expandable
 to 48K bytes using 16K RAMs (see box). But you don't even need to know
 a RAM from a ROM to use and enjoy Apple II. For example, it's the
 first personal computer with a fast version of BASIC permanently
 stored in ROM. That means you can begin writing your own programs the
 first evening, even if you've had no previous computer experience.
 
 The familiar typewriter-style keyboard makes it easy to enter your
 instructions. And your programs can be stored on - and retrieved from
 - audio cassettes, using the built-in cassette interface, so you can
 swap with other Apple II users.
 
 You can create dazzling color displays using the unique color graphics
 commands in Apple BASIC. Write simple programs to display
 kaleidoscopic designs. Or invent your own games. Games like PONG -
 using the game paddles supplied. You can even add the dimension of
 sound through Apple II's built-in speaker.
 
 But Apple II is more than an advanced, infinitely flexible game
 machine. Use it to teach your children arithmatic, or spelling for
 instance. Apple II make learning fun. Apple II can also manage
 household finances, chart the stock market or index recipes, record
 collections, even control your home environment.
 
 Right now, we're finalizing a peripheral board that will slide into
 one of the eight available motherboard slots and enable you to
 compose music electronically. And there will be other peripherals
 announced soon to allow your Apple II to talk with another Apple II,
 or to interface to a printer or teletype.
 
 Apple II is designed to grow with youas your skill and experience with
 computers grows. It is the state of the art in personal computing
 today, and compatible upgrades and peripherals will keep Apple II in
 the forefront for years to come.
 
 Write us today for our detailed brochure and order form. Or call us
 for the name and address of the Apple II dealer nearest you. (408)
 996-1010. Apple Computer Inc., 20863 Stevens Creek Boulevard, Bldg.
 B3-C, Cupertino, California 95014.
 
 (The box)
 
 Apple II (tm) is a completely self-contained computer system with
 BASIC in ROM, color graphics, ASCII keyboard, lightweight, efficient
 switching power supply and molded case. It is supplied with BASIC in
 ROM, up to 48K bytes of RAM, and with cassette tape, video and game
 I/O interfaces built-in. Also included are two game paddles and a
 demonstration cassette.
 
 Specifications
 o Microprocessor: 6502 (1MHz).
 o Video Display: Memory mapped, 5 modes - all Software-selectable:
 o Text - 40 characters/line, 24 lines upper case.
 o Color graphics - 40h x 48v, 15 colors
 o High-resolution graphics - 280h x 192v; black, white, violet,
   green (12k minimum required)
 o both graphics modes can be selected to include 4 lines of text at
   the bottom of the display area.
 o Completely transparent memory access. All color generation done
   digitally.
 o Memory: up to 48K bytes on-board RAM (4K supplied)
 o Uses either 4K or new 16K dynamic memory chips
 o Up to 12K ROM (8K supplied)
 o Software
 o Fast extended integer BASIC in ROM with color graphics commands
 o Extensive monitor in ROM
 o I/O
 o 1500 bps cassette interface
 o 8-slot motherboard
 o Apple game I/O connector
 o ASCII keyboard port
 o Speaker
 o Composite video output
 
 Apple I is also available in board-only for for the do-it-yourself
 hobbyist. Has all of the features of the Apple II system, but does not
 include case, keyboard, power supply or game paddles. $598.
 ---
______________________________________________________________________

Louis Cornelio 		"If it's good, they'll stop making it"
lcornel@cello.gina.calstate.edu 	- Herbert Block, cartoonist
			Apple II forever??