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| The MicroBee 128, released in 1985, was a powerful Australian home and educational computer built by MicroBee Systems (originally Applied Technology). It used a Z80 processor running at 3.375 MHz and came with 128 KB of dynamic RAM, backed by a battery to retain memory when powered off. Its video system allowed users to work in text or graphics modes, and it included a programmable character generator so that the display could mimic other systems. The computer started in BASIC or CP/M, depending on whether it was booted from tape or floppy disk. A floppy disk interface was included on the board, with optional dual drives available. The MicroBee 128 supported composite video output (and RGB via add-on), a cassette port, serial and parallel ports, joystick connectors, and an external expansion bus—making it adaptable for various peripherals and educational settings. It featured a full-stroke 60-key keyboard and was widely used in Australian schools, with classroom networks often linking multiple MicroBees to a central unit. Though it wasn’t as graphically advanced as some international competitors, it distinguished itself through its modular design, battery-backed RAM, and flexibility. It remains a notable example of early Australian computing. |
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