Launch of the ZX81 Home Computer

On March 5, 1981, Sinclair Research launched the ZX81 in the United Kingdom, marking a significant milestone in the history of personal computing. The ZX81 was designed to be an affordable and accessible home computer, which played a crucial role in popularizing computing among the general public.

Background

Before the ZX81, personal computers were often expensive and primarily targeted at businesses or hobbyists with technical expertise. Sinclair Research, led by Sir Clive Sinclair, aimed to change this by creating a computer that was both affordable and easy to use for the average consumer.

Key Features

• Price: The ZX81 was priced at £69.95 in kit form and £79.95 pre-assembled, making it one of the most affordable computers of its time.
• Processor: It was powered by a Zilog Z80 CPU running at 3.25 MHz.
• Memory: The base model came with 1 KB of RAM, which could be expanded to 16 KB with an external RAM pack.
• Display: The ZX81 used a black-and-white television as its display, outputting a resolution of 64x48 pixels for graphics and 32x24 characters for text.
• Input: It featured a membrane keyboard, which was compact and cost-effective.
• Programming: The ZX81 came with a built-in BASIC interpreter, allowing users to write and execute their own programs.

Impact and Legacy

The ZX81 was a commercial success, selling over 1.5 million units worldwide. Its affordability and simplicity made it a popular choice for home users and educational institutions. The ZX81’s success paved the way for future Sinclair models, such as the ZX Spectrum, which further advanced the home computing revolution.

Broader Significance

• Democratization of Computing: By making computers accessible to a wider audience, the ZX81 contributed significantly to the democratization of technology.
• Influence on Software Development: The availability of an affordable platform encouraged a generation of programmers and hobbyists to develop software, fostering a burgeoning software industry.
• Cultural Impact: The ZX81 became a cultural icon in the UK, symbolizing the early days of personal computing and inspiring many future tech entrepreneurs.

In summary, the launch of the ZX81 on March 5, 1981, was a pivotal event in the history of personal computing, setting the stage for the widespread adoption of computers in homes and schools across the world.