The LSI Octopus is an 8-bit microcomputer with a 16-bit processor.  LSI Computers Ltd was a British company from Woking in Surrey.

The Octopus was marketed as a flexible machine, suitable for single-users, but capable of expansion as the needs of the user grew. In its minimum configuration, the Octopus is a transportable computer which uses a television set as a screen. This can be expanded to comprise a 16-bit microcomputer with up to 6 terminals, which can be linked to other microcomputers as a local area network. The dual processors in the Octopus are the Intel 8088 and the Zilog Z80B, which run both 16-bit and 8-bit software, the dual CPU layout meant the machine could run CP/m or MPM with either the Z80 or 8088, and could run concurrent operating systems from one unit.

Operating systems are Control Program Monitor (CP/M)-86/80 PLUS, MP/M-86/80, Microsoft disk operating system, concurrent CP/M and the ELSIE System of LSI.

The best feature of the Octopus was its expandability, with its main board providing an expansion slot so that other boards or extra processors can be piggy backed on to it.

Manufacturer: LSI
Date: 1985

This exhibit has a reference ID of CH26767. Please quote this reference ID in any communication with the Centre for Computing History.

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