ACT apricot - Page 18

HARDWARE
The Keyboard Unit consists of, a standard layout
typewriter keyboard, a calculator keypad, a number of
programmable
function keys with associated LED
indicators, a
set of "fixed" function keys, and a 2 line by 40
character MicroScreen. The Keyboard Unit also contains
processing
circuitry which provides the interface between
the keys and the System Unit.
The standard Display Unit is a high resolution 9 inch
monochrome display which fits into a shallow recess on the
top of the System Unit. The Display Unit tilts, swivels and
slides, enabling
the operator to position the screen to obtain
the optimum viewing angle. An anti-reflective mesh is
incorporated
on the screen to minimise the possibility of
eye fatigue.
In
its basic configuration, the Apricot Computer
incorporates the following:
(a) An Intel 8086 16-bit processor.
(b) An Intel 8089 16-bit input/output processor.
(c) 256 Kbytes of dynamic RAM.
(d) A single 3.5 inch MicroFloppy disk drive.
(e) A Centronics parallel port for connecting a printer.
(f) An RS232C serial interface for data
communica tions.
(g) A port for connecting a "mouse" device.
(h) A sound generator to provide audio feedback.
(i) Two internal expansion slots to cater for RAM
expansion
and connecting other optional facilities.
(j) A port for connecting a light pen plus associated
ancillary electronics.
The basic configuration of the microcomputer can be
expanded by
the addition of two further options, in addition
to the optional facilities available via the internal expansion
slots.
These two further options are as follows:
(a) A second 3.5 inch MicroFloppy disk drive.
(b) A numeric data processor (Intel 8087) to increase
the processing capabilities of the microcomputer in
mathematical and scientific applications.