Cambridge Z88 in prototype Optimus Case

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The Cambridge Computer Z88 was an A4-size, lightweight, portable Z80-based computer with a built-in combined word processing/spreadsheet/database application called Pipedream, along with several other apps/utilities, such as a Z80-version of BBC BASIC.

The machine was designed by Sir Clive Sinclair and released by his company Cambridge Computer in 1987 (Sir Clive having been unable to market the computer as the Sinclair Z88 after selling Sinclair Research's computer business to Amstrad in 1986).

The Z88 is a portable computer based on a low-power CMOS version of the popular Z80 microprocessor. It comes with 32 KB of internal pseudo-static RAM and 128 KiB of ROM containing the Operating System (called OZ), but can be expanded up to 3.5 MB of RAM, of which the contents are preserved thanks to the batteries. An integrated capacitor prevents the Z88 from losing its data for a limited amount of time while changing the batteries.

This Z88 has a unique case which is a prototype designed by Optimus. This was kindly donated by Daniel Bangham from Wood, Wind & Reed of Cambridge.

Manufacturer: Cambridge Computers
Date: 1988

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This exhibit has a reference ID of CH14770. Please quote this reference ID in any communication with the Centre for Computing History.

 

Cambridge Z88 in prototype Optimus Case

  Peripherals   [10]
  Promotional Items   [1]

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