| Atari introduced the 1200XL in December 1982 (CES January 1983, released March 1983) as the first model in its new XL line of 8-bit home computers. It featured a single main motherboard, 64 KB RAM, and a ROM-based self-test system, replacing the multi-board design of the earlier 400/800 models. The processor was the same MOS Technology 6502 running at about 1.79 MHz, but Atari improved the video circuitry for richer color output—though the chroma signal wasn’t patched through to the monitor jack. One of the standout features of the 1200XL was its redesigned keyboard, which included four function keys plus a HELP key, offering a much softer typing feel. The system also introduced international character set switching and allowed users to disable the keyboard or video to boost performance. However, Atari sacrificed certain hardware features to reduce cost and streamline the design. The 1200XL had only two joystick ports instead of four, lacked a secondary cartridge port and expansion bus, and its SIO port no longer provided +12 V power, reducing compatibility with some existing peripherals. These changes, combined with a premium initial price of around $899, led to poor sales—even as Atari reduced the price to $599 by mid-1983, users often preferred the cheaper and more compatible 600XL and 800XL models. Production ended in June 1983. |
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