Max-80
The MAX-80 is a personal computer released in 1982 by Lobo Systems (formerly Lobo Drives International). It differed from other TRS-80 compatible computers in that it was not hardware compatible with the TRS-80.[1]
| Type | Personal computer |
|---|---|
| Release date | 1982 |
| Media | External disk drive |
| Operating system | LDOS and CP/M |
| CPU | Zilog Z80-B @ 5.07MHz |
| Memory | 64K, 128K max |
Hardware
The MAX-80 featured a Zilog Z80-B CPU which ran at 5.07 MHz, a very fast speed for its time. It came standard with 64k of memory, and was expandable via sockets for a further 64k. The standard configuration originally consisted of a 64k unit (later 128k) and CP/M. The user could buy a complete system, or provide their own monitor and disk drives.[1]
The floppy disk controller could handle 8 inch drives using the standard IBM 3740 format in single-sided or double-sided modes, as well as 5.25 inch floppy drives with up to 80 cylinders. The Max-80 included a hard disk interface and two RS-232 serial ports. The Max-80's character generator was user programmable.
Software
Up to 95% of TRS-80 Model III software would function without modification on the MAX-80. This did not include games. The special version of LDOS used was able to run most Model III programs with a patch disk available for those, such as VisiCalc, which it couldn't. The CP/M operating system was offered as well.[1]
A patched version of the TRS-80 Model 4's LS-DOS 6.x operating system was later made available for the Max-80. This was called MAXDOS.[1]
Community
A users' group called MAXIMUL published a MAX-80 newsletter.[2] MAXIMUL actually outlived Lobo Systems, lasting until 1989.[1]
Reception
Jerry Pournelle wrote in September 1983 that if the Max-80 came with more bundled software "it would be a strong contender for the best deal in microcomputerland. As it is, it's a lot of machine for the money". He recommended that customers join Maximul.[2]
References
- Reed, Matthew. "The Lobo MAX-80". Retrieved 2010-11-24.
- Pournelle, Jerry (September 1983). "Eagles, Text Editors, New Compilers, and Much More". BYTE. p. 307. Retrieved 2019-04-07.