The Vintage #Commodore #SuperPET #SP9000 is a rare and iconic microcomputer from the early 1980s, designed as an advanced version of the Commodore PET series. It was developed in collaboration with the University of Waterloo to serve as a powerful educational and programming tool. The SP9000 is particularly notable for its ability to run multiple programming languages and environments, making it a versatile machine for its time.
Key Features:
- Processor: Dual-processor system featuring a MOS 6502 (1 MHz) for Commodore BASIC and a Motorola 6809 (1 MHz) for advanced programming environments.
- Memory: 96 KB of RAM (expandable), which was substantial for the era.
- Display: Built-in monochrome green or white phosphor CRT display, typically 40 columns x 25 lines.
- Storage: Supports external floppy drives (such as the Commodore 8050 or 8250) for loading and saving programs.
- Keyboard: Full-travel QWERTY keyboard with a numeric keypad, designed for comfortable typing and programming.
Software and Environments:
- Waterloo Microsystems Menu: The SuperPET boots into this menu, offering access to a variety of programming languages and tools. This menu is a hallmark of the SP9000, showcasing its educational and multi-language capabilities.
- Commodore BASIC 4.0: The standard BASIC interpreter for Commodore PET systems, used for general programming and learning.
- Additional Languages: The SuperPET supports languages like APL, COBOL, FORTRAN, Pascal, and assembler via the 6809 processor, making it a versatile tool for teaching and development.
Design and Build:
- The SuperPET features the classic PET-style case with a built-in monitor and keyboard, giving it a distinctive retro look.
- Its dual-processor design sets it apart from other PET models, enabling it to handle more advanced tasks and programming environments.
Legacy:
The SuperPET SP9000 was primarily aimed at universities and educational institutions, making it a rare find today. Its ability to run multiple programming languages and its association with the University of Waterloo make it a historically significant machine in the evolution of personal computing. For collectors and retro computing enthusiasts, the SuperPET is a prized piece of computing history, representing the bridge between early microcomputers and more advanced programming tools.
If you have one that boots to the Waterloo Microsystems Menu or BASIC 4.0, it’s a fully functional and operational piece of vintage tech that offers a glimpse into the early days of computer science education.