Max-80

The MAX-80 is a personal computer released in 1982 by (formerly Lobo Drives International). It differed from other TRS-80 compatible computers in that it was not hardware compatible with the TRS-80.^[1]

Hardware[]

The MAX-80 featured a Zilog Z80-B CPU which ran at 5.07 MHz, a very fast speed for its time. It came standard with 64k of memory, and was expandable via sockets for a further 64k. The standard configuration originally consisted of a 64k unit (later 128k) and CP/M. The user could buy a complete system, or provide their own monitor and disk drives.^[1]

The floppy disk controller could handle 8 inch drives using the standard IBM 3740 format in single-sided or double-sided modes, as well as 5.25 inch floppy drives with up to 80 cylinders. The Max-80 included a hard disk interface and two RS-232 serial ports. The Max-80's character generator was user programmable.

Software[]

Up to 95% of TRS-80 Model III software would function without modification on the MAX-80. This did not include games. The special version of LDOS used was able to run most Model III programs with a patch disk available for those, such as VisiCalc, which it couldn't. The CP/M operating system was offered as well.^[1]

A patched version of the TRS-80 Model 4's LS-DOS 6.x operating system was later made available for the Max-80. This was called MAXDOS.^[1]

Community[]

A users' group called MAXIMUL published a MAX-80 newsletter.^[2] MAXIMUL actually outlived Lobo Systems, lasting until 1989.^[1]

Reception[]

Jerry Pournelle wrote in September 1983 that if the Max-80 came with more bundled software "it would be a strong contender for the best deal in microcomputerland. As it is, it's a lot of machine for the money". He recommended that customers join Maximul.^[2]

References[]

External links[]

• Lobo MAX-80 at Oldcomputers.net
• The Lobo MAX-80 at trs-80.org
• Lobo Drives International MAX-80 at Old-Computers.com
• LDOS and Me- By Tim Mann