Acorn ads
This page contains the HTML'ifyed text of Acorn's original advertising hand-outs.
The text has been kindly contributed by Dave Jeffrey, and is probably copyright Acorn.
Note that some of these ads are also available as full color
scans.
You might also be interested in this "Acorn Business Computer" ad,
scanned by Mark Ferns. This computer series was announced and ready for launching when
Olivetti took over Acorn and subsequently canned the whole line of products.
Processor
The unit uses a 2MHz 6502
Memory
Model A: 16K of Random Access Memory (RAM)
Model B: 32K of Random Access Memory (RAM)
A 16K Read Only Memory (ROM) integrated circuit contains an extensive and
powerful Machine Operating System designed to interface easily to high level
languages.
A further 16K Language ROM contains an extremely powerful and fast BASIC
interpreter. The interpreter includes a 6502 assembler which enables BASIC
statements to be freely mixed with 6502 assembly language.
Up to four 16K language ROMs may be plugged into the machine at any time. This
four ROMs are 'paged' and may include Pascal, word processing, computer aided
design software, disc and Econet® routines or Telextext filing system.
Keyboard
73 key full travel QWERTY keyboard with 10 user definable function keys. The
keyboard has two key rollover and auto repeat.
Display
The standard television output is 625 line 50Hz, interlaced, fully encoded PAL,
modulated on UHF channel 36. Other standards are available.
The full-colour Teletext display of 40 characters by 25 lines has full character
rounding with double height, flashing, coloured background and text - all to the
Teletext standard.
The non Teletext display modes provide user definable characters in addition to
the standard upper and lower case alpha-numeric font. In these modes, graphics
may be freely mixed with text. Text characters can be positioned not only on, for
example, a 40×32 grid, but at any intermediate position.
Separate or overlapping text and graphic windows can be easily user-defined over
any area of the display. Each of these windows may be filled separately and text
may be scrolled up or down within the text window.
-------------------------------------------
The following display modes can be used
-------------------------------------------
Model B 0 640×256 2 colour graphics and 80×32 text (20K)
only 1 320×256 4 colour graphics and 40×32 text (20K)
2 160×256 16 colour graphics and 20×32 text (20K)
3 80×25 2 colour text
-------------------------------------------
Models 4 320×256 2 colour graphics and 40×32 text (10K)
A and B 5 160×256 4 colour graphics and 20×32 text (10K)
6 40×25 2 colour text (8K)
7 40×25 Teletext display (1K)
-------------------------------------------
The installed RAM is divided between the high resolution graphics display, the
user's program and Machine Operating System variables. The Machine Operating
System requires about 3½K of RAM in the Model A. If higher resolutions are
required with large programs then the second processor option may be fitted.
All graphics access is 'transparent' resulting in a fast snow-free display.
Extensive support is provided in the Machine Operating System for the graphics
facilities, and this is fully reflected in the BASIC interpreter. These
facilities include the ability to draw lines raphily and to fill large areas of
colour. In addition, very rapid changes of colour can be effected.
A BNC connector supplies a composite video output to drive a black and white
monitor.
External storage
A standard audio cassette recorder can be used to record computer programs at 300
or 1200 baud using the CUTS standard tones. The cassette recorder is under full
automatic motor control and is connected to the computer via a seven pin DIN
connector.
Tone generation
The internal loudspeaker is driven from a 3-voice music synthesis circuit with
full ADSR envelope control, and there is also a noise channel.
Interfaces(Model B only)
Serial interfave to RS423 standard. This standard has been designed to be
inter-operable with RS232C equipment but offers a considerably enhances
specification - for example in maximum length of cable and maximum data transfer
rates. Baud rates and software selectable between 75 baud and 19,200 baud. The
interface provides not only two way data transfer, but also two way hand-shaking
using RTS and CTS lines. Connection to the machine is made via a 5 way 'diamond'
DIN connector and various interconnecting plugs are available for the various
standard 25 way D type circuits.
An 8 bit 'Centronics type' parallel printer port is provided with 'strobe' and
'acknowledge' lines.
An RGB video output is provided to drive a high quality colour monitor.
An 8 bit input/output port is also provided.
Four 12 bit analogue input channels are provided. Each channel has an input
voltage range of 0-1.8V and the interval converter provides a number in the range
0 to 4095×16. The conversion time for each channel is 10 milliseconds and when
the conversion is complete, the processor is interrupted and the value stored in
a memory location for later access. These analogue inputs can be used not only in
laboratory control situations, but also for inputs for games - paddles or
joysticks.
A 1MHz buffered extension bus is provided for connection to Prestel, Telextext or
various other expansion units.
Expansion
Both Model A** and Model B may have the expansion options fitted internally at
purchase, or by dealers at a later date.
External options which plug directly into the machine inclue:
Software
Considerable attention has been paid to the overall design of the system and
application software. A modular approach has been adopted specifically to ease
the interfacing of various high-level languages (such as BASIC and Pascal) to the
operating system.
Machine Operating System(MOS)
A 16K ROM is used for the MOS. This software controls all input-output devices
using a well defined interface. The MOS supports the following interrupts:
and 'hooks' are provided to support other devices such as:
Many of the operating system calls are vectored to enable the user to change them
if required at a future date.
BASIC
The BASIC interpreter is an extremely fast implementation, very close to the
Microsoft standard but with numerous powerful extensions:
Econet®
The Econet® communications network enables a number of computers to share
expensive resources such as a printer and a disc 'file server.' The system is
primarily intended for schools and colleges but also lends itself to many office
and business applications.
Because of the low costs involved, it is possible to dedicate one computer as a
file server and one as a printer server. However, once pupils have loded files
from the file server, there is no reason why the file server computer should not
be used as a normal disc computer until it is again required to act as a file
server. The same flexibility applies to the printer server.
Service
Technical support and service can be obtained from a number of sources:
Pre-sales advice (please send a large SAE) from
BBC Microcomputer System
PO Box 7
London W3 6XJ
After sales service and advice by a national dealer network (see list) and Retail
Control Systems Limited, Gresham House, Twickenham Road, Feltham, Middlesex TW13
6HA
Both Model A and Model B Computers are despatched with a mains lead and a lead to
enable the computer to be connected to a domestic television set. In addition, a
substantial User Guide, a cassette containing about fifteen demonstration
programs and a leaflet describing these programs is included with the machine.
This description and specification is subject to change without notice.
*CP/M is a registered trademark of Digital Research
**Only some expansion options are available for Model A
AMP 01 Information Sheet G3, May 1983. The BBC Microcomputer is designed, produced and distributed in the UK
by Acorn Computers Limited.
Data and program storage on a cassette recorder, even under computer control as
with the BBC Computer, soon becomes tiresomely laborious and the next stage is to
add a disc storage facility to your system. The BBC disc system comprises two
elements:
1 The disc interface and Disc Filing System (DFS)
This consists of various compnents including a disc controller LSI chip (8271)
and a fixed memory device containing the firmware runs the filing system. These
compnents should be fitted by a dealer with appropriate test equipment if not
fitted at time of purchase. The DFS is very fast and uses disc space efficiently
allowing access to any part of the disc within a fraction of a second and loading
the program typically 60 times faster than 1200 baud tape. The DFS contains many
sophisticated commands including ACCESS, BACKUP, COMPACT, COPY, DELETE, DESTROY,
DIR, INFO, LIB, RENAME and TITLE.
2 The disc drive
This is contained in a matching case and is powered from the BBC computer. The
drive is of the Shugart standard inteface and is available in two variations:
The disc drive is provided with the BBC Microcomputer Disc Filing System manual
and a floppy disc containing formatting and utilities routines.
The DFS manual is not supplied with the disc interface components as when used
with other makes of disc drive correct operation cannot be guaranteed.
For further details ask your nearest dealer or write to
PO Box 7, London W3 6XJ.
The BBC Microcomputer Teletext System can accept and store teletext information
transmitted by both BBC and ITV, providing access to teletext and telesoftware
services broadcast on UHF channels E21 to E69.
The Teletext system is designed to match the BBC Microcomputer in style and
colour, and is supplied with cables to connect it to the computer and to the
mains electricity supply, and a teletext filing system Read Only Memory (ROM)
installed inside the computer. The adaptor simply connects to the television
aerial, enabling the monitor to receive and decode teletext data.
Teletext Reception
In 'terminal mode' the system receives and decodes display pages from both CEEFAX
(BBC) and ORACLE (ITV). A four channel UHF tuner demodulates incoming signals and
feeds a composite video signal to a video processor. Teletext data, which is
transmitted between the picture lines on a television, is stored in the system's
internal 1K Random Access Memory for transmission to the BBC Microcomputer. From
there it can be transferred onto tape or disc. All data processing is controlled
by a ROM fitted inside the BBC Microcomputer.
Telesoftware
In 'telesoft mode' the system can load, run and execute programs transmitted on
CEEFAX and ORACLE. Incoming signals are captured and processed as in the terminal
mode, which means that programs can be run as they arrive. The BBC Microcomputer
will respond to commands sent by teletext. Programs which can be sent this way
are many and varied and include educational packages.
The Teletext System can only be fitted to a Model B BBC Microcomputer, though the
Model A can be upgraded. It comes complete with a User Manual.
The microcomputer must be fitted with a Series 1.0 Machine Operating System.
For futher details ask your nearest dealer or write to
PO Box 7, London W3 6XJ.
* A high-quality television signal is required to receive teletext information. Please contact your dealer
for advice.
The 6502 Second Processor has been designed for the serious computer user who
wants to get even more from his British Broadcasting Corporation Microcomputer.
Increased performance
With the 6502 Second Processor you will be able to write bigger, more elaborate
programs than you could before. Together, the 6502 Second Processor and BBC*
Microcomputer make up a system which offers computing power comparable to that
provided by machines costing twice as much.
As well as writing your own programs, you will have access to a range of exciting
new programs as soon as they become available. These will make full use of the
additional computing power provided by the 6502 Second Processor. One of these
programs drives the Bitstik computer aided drawing system, which allows the user
to create shapes on the screen and produce outstanding graphics, architects'
drawings, etc.
The BBC Microcomputer was designed with a second processor in mind and
incorporates Acorn's unique Tube interface. This provides a high speed data
channel for the addition of a second processor. So connecting the 6502 Second
Processor is simplicity itself.
The 6502 Second Processor is presented in a matching cream coloured case and has
been styled to blend with, and sit alongside, your BBC Microcomputer.
Increased memory
The 6502 second processor has 64K of memory. The main processor's 32K of RAM is
used for screen memory, filing system work spaces, etc. This leaves the Second
Processor memory free for your applications programs.
Assembly language programs up to 60Kbytes (code and data) can be written for the
Second Processor, with all the features of the BBC operating system still
available across the Tube interface. When writing in BASIC, 16K of memory is
needed for the interpreter. Using the special Hi-BASIC supplied with the 6502
Second Processor, 44K is available for BASIC programs. (Non 'Hi' versions of
BASIC, LISP, FORTH, VIEW, etc will provide 30K of user RAM, plus a separate 14K
of memory which can be used for assembly language routines or BASIC variable
storage.)
In addition, with the 6502 Second Processor connected, the full character set is
completely redefinable without using any program memory.
Increased speed
The 6502 second processor works at a clock rate of 3MHz. This means that,
depending on what you are asking your computer to do, it is likely to do it up to
50% faster than before.
Easy to use
Although the 6502 Second Processor is designed for the serious user, it is very
easy to use. Each purchaser will receive a user guide and two additional ROMs.
One of these ROMs will update your disc filing system or Econet® filing system
(if fitted). The other will provide you with Hi-BASIC. It contains the same
language as the BASIC ROM you already have in your micro, but allows you to make
full use of the additional memory provided by the 6502 Second Processor.
Instructions on how to fit the two ROMs inside your BBC Microcomputer are
supplied with the Second Processor. Installation is very simple, but if you would
prefer not to fit the ROMs yourself, then your local dealer will do it for you.
Technical data
The 6502 Second Processor has a 64K Random Access Memory (RAM) which provides 60K
bytes of RAM available for assembly language programs. The Second Processor
operates at a clock rate of 3MHz.
You will need a Model B BBC Microcomputer with a version 1.2 machine operating
system, a colour or monochrome monitor (or television set), and a cassette
recorder or a disc drive. If required, the version 1.2 MOS will be fitted to the
BBC Microcomputer, free of charge, when the 6502 Second Processor is purchased.
The unit measures approximately 205mm×345mm and has its own power supply.
For futher details ask your nearest dealer or write to:
Acorn Computers Limited
Fulbourn Road
Cherry Hinton
Cambridge CB1 4JN
The Z80® Second Processor is an extension unit which converts your British
Broadcasting Corporation Microcomputer into a very powerful business tool.
Supplied complete with a comprehensive package of business software, the Z80
Second Processor (when linked to you BBC* Microcomputer) offers computing power
to rival that provided by machines costing twice as much.
The BBC Microcomputer was designed to allow for second processors by
incorporating Acorn's unique Tube interface. This provides a high speed data
channel for the addition of a second processor. So connecting the Z80 Second
Processor is simplicity itself.
Complementary software
Each purchaser will receive a collection of complementary software in addition to
the Z80 Second Processor itself. The programs have been specially selected to
suit a wide range of applications and will appeal particularly to business users,
business educationalists, 'professional' home users (for example secretaries of
golf clubs, housing associations, etc) and students of business studies.
The software package includes:
Access to business software
Styled to be neatly positioned alongside the BBC Microcomputer, the Z80 Second
Processor allows you to load a different operating system 0 CP/M 2.2. This is
probably the most commonly used operating system for business micros in the
world, so the library of software is vast. There are already something like 6,000
titles and the number is growing all the time.
All the usual CP/M utilities are included in the Z80 Second Processor package and
virtually any CP/M software will run on the Z80 Second Processor. If you are
interested in a specific CP/M software package, ask your dealer to check that it
is suitable for use with the Z80 Second Processor.
Converting to CP/M will not in any way lead to a reduction in the facilities
offered by your BBC Microcomputer.
Technical data
The Z80 Second Processor has a 64K Random Access Memory (RAM) which provides
approximately 55K bytes of RAM available for user programs. This is often
referred to as a 60K CP/M system. The Second Processor operates at a clock rate
of 6MHz.
The Z80 Second Processor incorporates Acorn's custom built integrated circuit
known as the Tube. Using this chip concurrent tasks communicate asynchronously
between two processors.
The CP/M system, whilst being the industry standard, also allows full access to
the BBC Microcomputer MOS.
CP/M programs can use any one of three ways to control the display facilities:
You will need a Model B BBC Microcomputer with a disc interface, a version 1.2
machine operating system, a colour or monochrome monitor or television set, a
dual, 80 track disc drive, a suitable printer and connecting lead. If necessary,
the version 1.2 MOS will be fitted to the BBC Microcomputer, free of charge, when
the Z80 Second Processor is purchased.
Each purchaser will receive a set of user guides, an additonal ROM for the BBC
Microcomputer, and instructions on how to fir it. This ROM will also update the
existing disc filing system and Econet® filing system. Your local dealer will fit
the ROM if required.
The unit measures approximately 205mm×345mm and has its own mains power supply.
For futher details ask your nearest dealer or write to:
Acorn Computers Limited
Fulbourn Road
Cherry Hinton
Cambridge CB1 4JN
The BBC Microcomputer System is designed, produced and distributed in the UK by Acorn Computers Limited.
This description and specification is subject to change without notice.
*British Broadcasting Corporation is abbreviated to BBC throughout the text.
Z80 is a registered trademark of Zilog
CP/M and GSX are registered trademarks of Digital Research Inc.
MemoPlan, FilePlan and GraphPlan are trademarks of Chang Laboratories Inc.
CIS COBOL, ANIMATOR and FORMS2 are trademarks of Micro Focus Limited
Econet is a registered trademark of Acorn Computers Limited.
The BBC Microcomputer can be extended to include the ability to speak sounds and
words from a vocabulary contained within a Word PHROM (Phrase Read Only Memory).
This extension also provides the facility to enable cartridge ROMS to be plugged
into the microcomputer via a socked to the left of the keyboard.
Speech Synthesis
The key items enabling the microcomputer to produce coherent speech are the
Speech Processor and PHROM Integrated Circuits. The Speech Processor is based on
the Linear Predictive Coding technique which provides a very compact encoding
into a binary representation of speech information. The first PHROM to be made
available is designated PHROM 'A'. The Speech Processor takes serial data
provided by the PHROM Integrated circuit and converts it into audible "words"
under the control of the main CPU. In addition to the PHROM fitted internally in
the microcomputer, serial data can also be provided by Cartridge ROMs or from
internal RAM. The PHROM 'A' currently fitted contains approximately 164
addressable words or word-parts with an English accent. A particular word is
activated by means of extensions to the BBC Basic "SOUND" statement using channel
-1.
Cartridge ROM
The Speech Processor provides the vital serial processing capability required by
Cartridge ROMS. These ROMs, planned for later availability, plug into the
microcomputer via the vacant area to the left of the keyboard. Further speech
PHROMS are planned in Cartridge ROM format in addition to games and application
programs.
The Speech Synthesis/Cartridge ROM upgrade is only available fitted by an
Authorised Service Centre and requires version 1.2 MOS (Machine Operating System)
which will be fitted free by the Service Centre, if required, during this
upgrade.
A Speech System User Guide is included with the upgrade.
Upgrage cost is £55 inc VAT, fitted.
The BBC Microcomputer System is designed, produced and distributed in the UK by
Acorn Computers Limited.
Price and specification may change without notice.
The Acorn IEEE Interface for the BBC Microcomputer
IEEE INTERFACE
The Acorn IEEE Interface enables a British Broadcasting Corporation Microcomputer to control any scientific and technical equipment
which conforms to the IEEE 488 standard.
Together, the IEEE Interface and BBC Microcomputer provide computer control of IEEE488-compatible devices at a lower price than
other systems - but without sacrificing any aspect of the IEEE488 standard. And, as an added bonus, Interface users have available to
them the full power and versatility of the BBC Microcomputer.
OPERATION
The IEEE Interface is provided in its own case, designed to match the BBC Microcomputer. It can be linked to a network of up to 14
separate IEEE488-compatible devices: oscilloscopes, voltmeters, logic analysers, spectrum analysers, function generators, frequency
meters, and any of the many other devices that are available.
When installed, the Interface automatically establishes the micro as the controlling device on the network. In addition, the micro can
operate as a controller-talker or controller-listener and it can pass control to and from any other suitable device on the network. when
not controlling the network the micro can operate as a talker or listener.
Typical applications of the Interface are in experimental work in academic and industrial laboratories. For example, the micro might be
programmed to instruct one device to generate input signals at a range of frequencies, and to accept measurements of the
corresponding output signals from a second device.
The advantages of computer-controlled operation over manual operation are speed, accuracy and repeatability. In addition, the data
from the experiment are immediately available to the micro's analysis programs, giving almost instant results and allowing rapid
comparison of the results of different tests.
Many other applications of the Interface exist in the monitoring and control of scientific and industrial processes.
CONTROL
Careful design of the Interface ensures that efficient hardware is matched by easy-to-use software.
A Read Only Memory plugging into one of the BBC Microcomputer's spare ROM slots provides the IEEE Interface Filing System
(IEEEFS). This is a set of plain English commands which the programmer uses to pass instructions from the micro to the devices on the
network. The micro regards the IEEEFS as another filing system like disc or tape, so that the format of the program statements which
address the IEEEFS will already be familiar to those with experience of the BBC Microcomputer. In addition, the straightforward nature
of the commands enables full control of an IEEE488 network to be achieved without a detailed understanding of the operation of the
interface.
The IEEEFS commands can be incorporated into programs written in any of the high-level languages available on the BBC
Microcomputer: BBC BASIC, 6502 Assembler and so on.
Commands are available for all the functions included in the IEEE488 standard, including both serial and parallel polling, timeouts, and
enabling and disabling of local control for all or individual devices.
Full explanations of the IEEEFS commands, and examples of their use, are included in the User Guide supplied with the interface.
OTHER FACILITIES
The BBC Microcomputer/IEEE Interface combination provides more than just control of an IEEE network. When not being used with a
network, or whilst two other devices on the network are communicating with each other, the usual range of facilities of the versatile
BBC Microcomputer are available to the user.
Its renowned colour graphics capabilities provide the ideal way of presenting experimental results in an instantly understandable form.
A second processor can be connected for even faster processing and greater memory capacity. Or the micro can be linked into Acorn's
Econet local area network, making control of and data from the IEEE488 system available to all the other micros on the network.
The interface itself has an additional 1MHz bus connection, enabling it to be linked to any of the other interfaces which operate from
this bus, such as Acorn's Teletext acquisition unit. Use of the IEEE Interface places no restrictions on the other applications of the BBC
Microcomputer.
TECHNICAL DETAILS
Specification The Acorn IEE Interface enables full implementation of the IEEE Standard 488 - 1978. IEEE488 is also known as, and is
equivalent to: IEC625-1 (in Europe) and GPIB or HP-IB (Hewlett Packard General Purpose Interface Bus).
Configuration The Interface is a high-quality, double-sided, plated-through-hole printed circuit board, produced to BS9000. It is
supplied in a robust case designed to match the BBC Microcomputer.
Connections A cable and plug to IEEE488-1978 specification for connection to one IEEE488-compatible device. A ribbon cabble for
connection to the BBC Microcomputer 1MHz expansion bus. A socket enabling connection of other 1MHz bus devices. A two-metre
mains cable with fitted 13A square pin plug.
Network configuration The Interface can support a network of up to 14 other IEEE488-compatible devices. Devices can be
interconnected in a star or linear fashion. IEEE488 permits individual cable lengths of up to four metres, and a total cable length in a
network of two metres per device with a maximum of 20 metres.
Software provision The IEEE Interface Filing System (IEEEFS) is provided in a ROM which fits into one of the BBC Microcomputer's
paged ROM slots.
Software facilities Access to the IEEEFS commands is provided by the command *IEEE. The commands available (with standard
IEEE488 mnemonics in brackets are:
BBC DEVICE NO (MTA & MLA) READ BINARY
CLEAR (IFC) REMOTE DISABLE
DEVICE CLEAR (DCL) REMOTE ENABLE (REN)
END OF STRING REQUEST CONTROL
EXECUTE SELECTED DEVICE CLEAR (SDC)
GO TO LOCAL (GTL) SERIAL POLL (SPE RQS STB & SPD)
LISTEN (LAG) STATUS
LOCAL LOCKOUT (LLO) TAKE CONTROL (TCT)
PARALLEL POLL TALK (TAG)
DISABLE (PPD) TIMEOUT OFF
PARALLEL POLL TIMEOUT ON
ENABLE (PPE) TRANSFER
PARALLEL POLL TRIGGER (GET)
REQUEST (PPR) UNLISTEN (UNL)
PARALELL POLL UNTALK (UNT)
UNCONFIGURE (PPU) WRITE BINARY
Data transmission Data can be sent and received by the Interface in strings of up to 255 ASCII characters. The delimiting character
defaults to line feed (ASCII code 10), but any other delimiting character or characters can be specified if required by a particular device.
Longer strings of data can be transmitted in binary coded form. the Interface can instruct two devices to transfer data from one to the
other without storing it in the BBC Microcomputer's memory, so freeing the computer for other tasks.
Error Checking Comprehensive error checking facilities are provided. Bus errors and the state of the Interface are available to the user
via a 32-bit status word.
Power supply 220/240V AC, 50/60Hz.
Documentation A 70-page User Guide containing full details of the IEEEFS commands and their use is supplied with the Interface.
Dimensions (approx) Height×width×depth: 75×205×350mm.
Temperature range 10º to 30ºC.
Requirements The IEEE Interface system requires a BBC Microcomputer Model B with a series 1 MOS (Machine Operating System).
The operating system is provided free if required.
In this leaflet, the initials BBC stand for the British Broadcasting Corporation.
The Acorn IEEE Interface is distributed in the UK by Acorn Computers Limited. Every effort is made to ensure that the information in this leaflet is correct, but we reserve the
right to make alterations at any time. No responsibility is accepted for errors or omissions.
Acorn Computers Limited
Fulbourn Road
Cherry Hinton
Cambridge CB1 4JN
The Acorn Bitstik enables you to exploit the renowned graphics capabilities of
the British Broadcasing Corporation Microcomputer to the full. with the Bitstik
you can turn your graphics ideas into colourful reality in a matter of moments,
and it provides the ideal introduction to the exciting world of computer aided
design.
Joystick
The Bitstik system consists of a joystick and full supporting software. The
joystick is a robust design which achieves precision without fiddliness. Its
movement is smooth yet positive, and the distance of travel is carefully planned
to combine accuracy with comfortable operation. It gives rotation as well as
movement in the X and Y axes. Three pushbuttons conveiniently placed on the top
of the joystic case are used in selecting functions from the screen menu, making
the Bitstik completely independent of the BBC Microcomputer keyboard. After a
short time you'll find the joystick becoming almost an extension of your hand so
that your eyes need never leave the screen.
Drawing
The Bitstik can draw 'freehand' lines for you anywhere on the screen, following
the movement of the joystick. Alternatively, it will automatically draw lines of
the shape you choose: straight lines, curves, circles or arcs. These lines are
first 'sketched' on the screen for you to accept or alter; you don't just have to
imaging where they will go. For extra precision, the start and end of lines can
be restricted to a grid of points. The spacing and angle of the grid are chosen
by the user, allowing the construction of perfectly closed shapes or angles
accurate to one minute of arc. Lines can be solid or selected from a range of
dotted and broken types, and the size of the 'pen nib' can be varied enabling
lines to be of any thickness.
Colour
Lines can be drawn in three different colours, and shapes and backgrounds can be
'painted' with colours chosen from a palette containing four solid colours and 12
shades. The colours used can be selected from the full range made available by
the BBC Microcomputer.
Saving and retrieving
Once a drawing has been created it can be stored by the Bitstik system on disc.
Then it can be recalled at any time or included in any other drawing. Up to 48
different drawings can be stored on a single library disc. Once stored a drawing
can include other stored drawings, and both lines and colours are stored. There
is virtually no limit to the complexity of a stored drawing. The Bitstik uses a
visual library system which displays miniature pictures of saved drawings,
allowing immediate identification. A recalled drawing can be placed anywhere on
screen, and can be made any size. It can be stretched, squashed, placed at an
angle or completely reversed. And the same drawing can be repeated any number of
times, enabling complex graphics to be built up from a few basic elements in
minutes.
Enlargement
Any part of the screen created using the Bitstik can be enlarged to the full
screen size. This enlargement can be repeated again...and again...giving
virtually unlimited magnification. the enlargement is not limited to the
information shown on screen. If the detail you want to see falls outside the
screen you can 'pan' in any direction across the enlarged drawing until you find
the part you want. Lines and recalled drawings can be added to an enlarged screen
in the normal way and are held by the system even if, on return to the original
screen, the extra information is too small to be registered by the screen
resolution.
Text
Text typed from the BBC Microcomputer keyboard can be added at any point on the
screen and can be shrunk, enlarged, squashed, stretched or turned, just like a
shape or drawing.
Printing
The Bitstik is provided with an inbuilt 'dump' facility for printing screen
images on the Acorn Spark-Jet black and white printer. Colours are represented by
different types of shading.
Simplicity
Despite its powerful and varied functions the Bitstik is extremely easy to use.
Its sophisticated software facilities are listed on menus shown at the edge of
the screen and are selected using the joystick. Colours and line types are chosen
in a similar simple way, and the Bitstik is provided with a comprehensive User
Guide.
Technical details
Specification
The Acorn Bitstik system comprises:
Software facilities
Software utilities
Bit images of screen can be saved and reloaded.
Zoom level and location can be saved and reloaded.
Screen image can be dumped to Acorn JP101 Spark-Jet printer.
Menus can be removed to expand image to full screen size.
Colours
Drawing: Four colours (three foreground, one background)
Painting: 16 colours (four colours and 12 composites of these).
The four drawing and solid painting colours can be selected from any of the BBC
Microcomputer's palette of 16 colours (including flashing colours).
Resolution
Unlimited stored resolution.
Display resolution limited only by screen or plotter used.
Angular resolution: One minute of arc.
Joystick
Requirements:
The Acorn Bitstik system requires the following additional equipment:
BBC Model B Microcomputer with disc interface and series 1 operating system
(operating system provided free if required).
Acorn 6502 second processor system.
Dual disc drive (80 track).
Colour monitor (Acorn RGB monitor recommended).
Acorn JP101 Spark-Jet printer (optional).
Order code:
ANF04