Czechoslovakian Spectrum Clone

The Didaktik M, introduced in 1990, was more advanced in design and perhaps more reliable than the original Sinclair machine. The computer has a much improved keyboard with arrow keys separated from the rest of the keyboard and a more ergonomic shape of the case. Inside there was 64 KB of total memory (16 KB ROM and 48 KB RAM).

The computer was considerably redesigned from the Spectrum. A custom circuit from Russian company Angstrem was used instead of the original Ferranti ULA, as a result the screen had a square aspect ratio instead of a rectangle 4:3. In addition the whole RAM was realized by one set of 64 KB chips from which only 48 KB were used and there was no difference between the fast and slow memory with the video content.

There were two separated connectors for joysticks, one Sinclair Standard, and one Kempston. There was also another connector for additional interfaces, such as a printer interface. Unlike the previous version of Didaktik, these connectors were typical "socialistic solution" compatible with nothing that was then available in the ČSSR. Thus, users were forced to develop and produce various and sometimes funny home-made interfaces to satisfy their needs. Data storing and monitor type was the same as in the case of the Gama computer.

Manufacturer: Didaktik
Date: 1990

This exhibit has a reference ID of CH48192. Please quote this reference ID in any communication with the Centre for Computing History.

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