22 Apr
1999
22 Apr
'99
8:15 p.m.
The video
display didnt come with all PDP-8/e computers as a standard feature.
PDP-8/e systems were Minicomputers, typically rack mounted. And yes,
i realize some cpu units were integrated into small tabletop lab units,
it still stretches the imagination to refer to a particular gutted down
configuration of a minicomputer, as a microcomputer.
I would think that either a raster graphics capable monitor would
have to come with the computer, or it would have to use a TV as its
standard console (with the video display circuitry built-in as standard
feature). Sure, there is always going to be some person who manages
OK, so you are trying to figure out what was the earliest microcomputer with
a bitmapped display, that wasn't actually early (since it had to have a
monitor as standard, and other relatively modern features). Seems like
an exercise in futility. Wait a minute, didn't Sellam already point that
out?
By your latest criteria, I guess even an S100 box with a Cromemco Dazzler
can be ruled out. Is there *anything* that meets your criteria before the
Commodore PET? The Apple ][ doesn't, since it didn't come with a monitor.