Tandy TRS-80 Micro Color Computer

Tandy TRS-80 Micro Color Computer

[Vin106]

The Tandy TRS-80 MC-10, introduced in 1983, was an affordable, compact home computer aimed at electronics hobbyists and first-time computer buyers interested in programming. Its notable features included a Motorola MC6803 CPU, graphics provided by the MC6847 video display generator, cassette-based storage, and a built-in RS-232 serial port—unusual for its price point at the time. Despite its approachable BASIC language and low cost, the MC-10 was not commercially successful and was quickly discontinued due to limited expandability and stiff competition from more powerful entry-level computers.

• Manufacturer: Tandy Corporation (Radio Shack)
• Model: MC-10
• Type: Home computer
• Released: 1983
• Cost at release (base price): USD $119.95 (CAD ~$400 adjusted for inflation)
• Cost at release (with peripherals): USD $229.90 (CAD ~$790 adjusted for inflation)
• MIPS: 0.05-0.08  (50-80 KIPS)

Hardware Specifications

• CPU: Motorola MC6803, 8-bit, 0.89 MHz clock speed
• RAM: 4 KB onboard, expandable to 20 KB via external memory expansion
• ROM: 8 KB (Micro Color BASIC developed by Microsoft)
• Graphics: Motorola MC6847 Video Display Generator (VDG)
  • Text resolution: 32×16 characters
  • Graphics resolutions:
    • Low-res: 64×32 (8 colors)
    • Medium-res up to 128×96 pixels (2 to 4 colors)
    • High-res up to 256×192 pixels (limited support due to video RAM)
• Input: 48-key Chiclet-style keyboard
• Storage: Cassette tape interface (1500 baud)
• I/O:
  • RS-232C serial interface (300-9600 baud; 600 baud from BASIC)
  • Internal RF modulator for TV output (channels 3 or 4)
  • Expansion port for memory and accessories
• Power: 8V AC, 1.5A via external power adapter
• Weight: ~1 kg

Operating System & Programming Languages 

• O/S:   Standard ROM-based OS: Microsoft Micro Color BASIC built into its ROM, serving as its operating environment. This was a version of Microsoft BASIC specifically adapted for the MC-10’s hardware features.
• Programming Languages: BASIC (specifically Microsoft BASIC), which was used for writing and running programs on the machine

Notables

• The MC-10 was nicknamed the “Micro Color Computer” and sometimes affectionately called the “RS MC-10” or simply “MC-10” by enthusiasts.
• Its compact size, built-in RS-232 serial port, and low price were unusual for early-1980s home computers, but it lacked expansion options compared to competitors.
• Featured Microsoft Micro Color BASIC in ROM, a version rarely seen outside the MC-10 and its French cousin, the Matra Alice.
• Despite Tandy’s hopes, it was neither a huge commercial success nor a breakthrough; it was discontinued within a year, earning a reputation as a “curiosity” among collectors.

Donated by: Arlen Michaels