Timex Computer 3256

Last updated
Timex Computer 3256
Type Home computer
Release datenever released, development started in 1987
MediaCartridges, cassette tape, floppy discs
Operating system Sinclair BASIC / Timex Extended Basic / CP/M
CPU Zilog Z80A
Memory256 KB
DisplayTV or video monitor; text: 32×24 lines, 16 colours; graphics: 256×192, 16 colours or 512×192 pixels, two colours; attributes: 32x24 or 32x192, two colours per area.
GraphicsTimex SCLD
SoundBeeper, AY-3-8912
Predecessor Timex Sinclair 2068

The TC 3256 [1] [2] or Timex Computer 3256 was a 1987 [3] computer created by Timex of Portugal, a branch of Timex Corporation. [4] [5] [6]

Contents

It was a third generation Sinclair ZX Spectrum compatible computer, [7] with expanded capabilities and new TEC - Timex Extended Commands BASIC commands supporting the AY-3-8912 sound chip, RS-232 network and the 512x192 pixel high resolution graphic mode. [3] [8]

Besides the legacy Sinclair BASIC, the ROM included a word processor (Timeword), Timex Extended Basic (with support for the Tenet [5] network, floppy disks and RAM drive) and a CP/M terminal emulator. RAM was expanded to 256kb.

At least one prototype was built, but the machine never reached the market due to Timex of Portugal shutting down its production line before its release. [5] [9]

Technical specifications

CPU

ROM

RAM

Display

Sound

I/O

Storage

Keyboard

See also

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References

  1. "Visit guide". Museum LOAD ZX Spectrum. Retrieved 2022-12-13.
  2. "Timex FDD-3000". Silicium (in French). 2003. Retrieved 2022-12-13.
  3. 1 2 Prata, Fernando (May 13, 1987). "TC 3256: A proposta Timex no mundo das aplicações profissionais" [TC 3256: The Timex proposal in the world of professional applications](PDF). Micro Se7e (in Portuguese). No. 46. pp. 1–2.
  4. Red, Johnny (2001). "Timex Computer 3256". Timex Computer World (in Portuguese).
  5. 1 2 3 Adamski, Jarek (2009). "Timex Computer 3256". 8bit Projects For Everyone.
  6. Red, Johnny (2001). "Timex Computer 3256 Prototype". Timex Computer World.
  7. Owen, Andrew (July 7, 2022). "Updating a 40-year-old computer design". Andrew Owen | Writer | Designer. Retrieved 2022-12-13.
  8. 1 2 "Timex Computer 3256, Timex Portugal". Kio's Sinclair ZX Computers Archive.
  9. 1 2 Florindo, Bruno. "CIRCE - AMERICAN COUSINS" (PDF). Byte High No Limit (22): 64.
  10. "SCLD Chip". Timex/Sinclair - The Authoritative Website for Timex/Sinclair Computers. Retrieved 2023-01-27.
  11. "Scld in spectrusty::chip::scld - Rust". docs.rs. Retrieved 2023-01-27.