Timex Computer 3256

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

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

It was a third generation Sinclair ZX Spectrum compatible computer, with expanded capabilities and new TEC - Timex Extended Commands BASIC commands supporting the AY-3-8912 sound chip, RS232 network and the 512x192 pixel high resolution graphic mode.[1][5]

Besides the legacy Sinclair BASIC, the ROM included a work processor (Timeword), Timex Extended Basic (with support for the Tenet[3] 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.[3]

Technical specifications

CPU

  • Zilog Z80A

ROM

  • 64K
    • 16K Sinclair BASIC
    • 16K Timeword text processor[5]
    • 16K Timex Extended Basic (Tenet, disk, RAMdrive)
    • 16K CP/M Terminal emulator

RAM

  • 256K
    • 208K RAMdrive
    • 48K base memory

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. "Microsete N.º46, Maio 1987" (PDF). loadzx.com.
  2. "Timex Computer 3256". timex.comboios.info.
  3. "Timex Computer 3256". 8bit.yarek.pl.
  4. "Timex Computer 3256 Prototype". timex.comboios.info.
  5. "Timex Computer 3256, Timex Portugal". k1.spdns.de.


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