pvl (04/02/83)
As a TI-99/4A owner who has been amazed at the lack of "POKE"
even in EXTENDED BASIC, I have started a table of features
which may turn up as "gotcha's" in buying one of the "under $500"
computers. I solicit additions/corrections (including data
on computers not included here and other "gotcha's") to be MAILED to me.
I will post results. This is your chance to let everyone
know what we should look for before we buy.
Low-End Personal Color Computer Scorecard
This table reflects standard (non-extended) configuration
except where marked otherwise
Atari(400/800) TI-99/4A VIC64
Plotting Capability Y N Poke
Statement Resequence N Y N
Auto-Statement Number N Y N
Peek/Poke Y N (!!) Y
Link to Assem. Routine Y N ?
# of Colors ? 16 16
# of Simult. Tones 4 3+noise 3 (see notes)
Memory Size 16K/48K 16K 64K
Variable Name Size Unlimited 15 char 2 char
# of Array Dimensions ? 3 ?
Bit-Map Graphics Y N(without Assem) Y (via Poke)
Ability to Read a
program as data Y N ?
Sprites Plyr/Miss. Ex. Basic (24) Poke (8)
Cassette Recorder Special Standard Special
Real-time clock Y N Y
BASIC included N Y Limited
Multi-Statement Lines Y Ex. Basic ?
Program Editor Full-Scrn Line Full-Screen (sort of)
Notes: 1) The VIC 64's sound generator includes multiple waveforms,
attack/decay control, and Filter controls
2) Atari's colors have both hue and intensity control
Thanks, Pete LaMaster BTL NJ (201)949-0040 ...!ihnp4!houxh!pvl