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Timex Computer 3256

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Timex Computer 3256
TypeHome computer
Release datenever released, development started in 1987
Operating systemSinclair BASIC / Timex Extended Basic / CP/M
CPUZilog Z80A
Memory256 KB
PredecessorTimex Sinclair 2068

The TC 3256[1][2] or Timex Computer 3256 was a 1987[3] computer created by Timex of Portugal, a branch of Timex Corporation.[4][5][6]

It was a third generation Sinclair ZX Spectrum compatible computer,[7] with expanded capabilities and new TEC - Timex Extended Commands BASIC commands supporting the AY-3-8912 sound chip, RS-232 network and the 512x192 pixel high resolution graphic mode.[3][8]

Besides the legacy Sinclair BASIC, the ROM included a word processor (Timeword), Timex Extended Basic (with support for the Tenet[5] network, floppy disks and RAM drive) and a CP/M terminal emulator. RAM was expanded to 256kb.

The machine never reached the market since Timex of Portugal shut down its production line before its release.[5][9]

Technical specifications

CPU

  • Zilog Z80A

ROM

RAM

Display

  • Improved ULA offering additional screen modes:
    • Text: 32×24 or 64x32 characters (8×8 pixels, rendered in graphics mode)
    • Graphics: 256×192 pixels, 15 colours (two simultaneous colours - "attributes" - per 8×8 pixels, causing attribute clash)
    • Extended Color: 256×192 pixels, 15 colors with colour resolution of 32×192 (two simultaneous colours - "attributes" - per 1×8 pixels)
    • Dual Screen: (two 256×192 pixels screens can be placed in memory)
    • A two color 512×192 mode

Sound

  • Beeper (1 channel, 10 octaves and 10+ semitones via internal speaker)
  • AY-3-8912

I/O

Storage

  • External cassette tape recorder
  • Disk Drive: TOS / CP/M

Keyboard

  • 69 keys with cursors, numpad and function keys

See also

References

  1. ^ "15110 – Bem-vindo ao Museu [EN] – New – LOAD Guia". Retrieved 2022-12-13.
  2. ^ "Timex FDD-3000". Silicium (in French). 2003. Retrieved 2022-12-13.
  3. ^ a b Prata, Fernando (May 13, 1987). "TC 3256: A proposta Timex no mundo das aplicações profissionais" [TC 3256: The Timex proposal in the world of professional applications] (PDF). Micro Se7e (in Portuguese). No. 46. pp. 1–2.
  4. ^ Red, Johnny (2001). "Timex Computer 3256". Timex Computer World (in Portuguese).
  5. ^ a b c Adamski, Jarek (2009). "Timex Computer 3256". 8bit Projects For Everyone.
  6. ^ Red, Johnny (2001). "Timex Computer 3256 Prototype". Timex Computer World.
  7. ^ Owen, Andrew (July 7, 2022). "Updating a 40-year-old computer design". Andrew Owen | Writer | Designer. Retrieved 2022-12-13.
  8. ^ a b "Timex Computer 3256, Timex Portugal". Kio's Sinclair ZX Computers Archive.
  9. ^ Florindo, Bruno. "CIRCE - AMERICAN COUSINS" (PDF). Byte High No Limit (22): 64.


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