Playing Elite, the iconic space simulation game, on a BBC Micro Model B on a friend’s personal computer was one of my first major gaming experiences. Now, the computer is celebrating its 39th birthday. The BBC Micro is a series of microcomputers and associated peripherals designed and built by the Acorn Computer company in the 1980s for the BBC Computer Literacy Project, operated by the British Broadcasting Corporation.
You can check out what it was like to use the BBC Micro personal computer by jumping over to the BBC Basic Editor Beta website, where you can program your own virtual BBC Micro Model B computer in all its glory.
The Legacy of the BBC Micro
The BBC Micro was more than just a computer; it was a cornerstone in the education of a generation. The BBC Computer Literacy Project aimed to educate the public about computing and programming, and the BBC Micro was the hardware centerpiece of this initiative. Schools across the UK adopted the BBC Micro, making it a familiar sight in classrooms and homes alike. The computer’s robust design and versatile capabilities made it an ideal educational tool.
The BBC Micro was also instrumental in the development of the British video game industry. Many early game developers cut their teeth on the BBC Micro, creating games that would go on to become classics. Elite, for example, was a groundbreaking game that introduced many players to the concept of open-world gaming. Its complex mechanics and expansive universe were revolutionary at the time and showcased the BBC Micro’s capabilities.
Technical Specifications and Capabilities
BBC Micro Model B specifications :
Processor: MOS 6502A @ 2 MHz
RAM: 32 kB
ROM: 32 kB
Graphics: Motorola 6845 CRT
Sound: TI SN76489 DCSG chip
Disk Storage: Optional
The BBC Micro Model B was equipped with a MOS 6502A processor running at 2 MHz, which was quite powerful for its time. It came with 32 kB of RAM and 32 kB of ROM, providing ample space for both operating system functions and user programs. The graphics were handled by a Motorola 6845 CRT controller, which allowed for a variety of display modes, including text and graphics. The sound was generated by a TI SN76489 DCSG chip, capable of producing three simultaneous tones and one noise channel, making it suitable for both educational software and games.
One of the standout features of the BBC Micro was its expandability. Users could add peripherals such as disk drives, printers, and even networking capabilities. This made the BBC Micro not just a standalone computer but a versatile system that could grow with the user’s needs.
The BBC Micro also supported a range of programming languages, with BBC BASIC being the most prominent. BBC BASIC was designed to be easy to learn yet powerful enough for advanced programming. It included features such as structured programming and inline assembly language, making it a favorite among both beginners and experienced programmers.
The BBC Micro’s influence extended beyond the UK. It was exported to several countries and inspired similar educational computing initiatives worldwide. Its legacy can still be seen today in the emphasis on computer literacy and programming skills in education.
The BBC Micro was a pioneering piece of technology that left a lasting impact on computing and education. Its 39th birthday is a testament to its enduring legacy and the fond memories it created for those who used it.
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