Gemini Challenger

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Gemini Challenger
ManufacturerGemini
Type Microcomputer
Release date1985;39 years ago (1985)
Lifespan1987;37 years ago (1987)
Introductory price £4,750
Media5.25" 1.2 MB floppy disc
Operating system MBOS, Mirage, TDI P-system, CP/M
CPU Motorola 68000 @ 12 MHz
Memory512 KB
StorageHard disks (20 to 70 MB)
DisplayComposite BNC, RF RCA
Graphics768 x 576 @ 16 to 16 million colours; 1024 x 1024 @ 64 colours with optional HD63484 based video card
ConnectivitySCSI, Parallel, 2 x Serial RS232, 4 x 68K expansion slots

The Gemini Challenger was a Motorola 68000 based computer, released in 1985 and designed by Gemini Microcomputers based in Chesham. [1] [2] [3] This was Gemini's first non Z80 computer and their last. [4]

It was designed to look like an ordinary PC-compatible computer, with a Wyse WY-50 remote terminal for monitor. [2] Four operating systems were available (MBOS, aimed for business and supporting multiuser; Mirage, another multiuser OS; TDI p-System, a version of UCSD p-System including Pascal; CP/M 68k), along with an advanced optional graphic card (based on the Hitachi HD63484) with a maximum resolution of 1024 x 1024 pixels and 16 million available colours. [2]

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References

  1. "Gemini". nascom.info - Information on the Nascom & Gemini computers. 18 March 2011.
  2. 1 2 3 "Challenger Gemini". www.old-computers.com. Retrieved 2022-10-31.
  3. "Glasgow University Places Order with Gemini Computer Systems". 14 January 1988.
  4. Starr, Michael; Chapple, Craig (9 July 2008). VINTROPEDIA - Vintage Computer and Retro Console Price Guide 2009. Lulu.com. ISBN   9781409212775.