★ HARDWARE ★ LE CPC 6128 ★ CPC 6128: NEW AMSTRAD COMPUTER LAUNCHED IN AMERICA|Amstrad User) ★ |
| Pub Amstrad Marche Americain | CPC 6128: New Amstrad Computer Launched in America |
Indescomp Inc. of Chicago are to be the first people to sell a new Amstrad computer. The CPC6128 will cost $799 for the colour version and $699 for a green screen system. Initially, the 6128 will only be sold in the USA, although it looks as though it will be sold in Europe early next year. The CPC6128 is based on the '664 but has a host of new features. The most obvious difference is the new case. The monitor is the same as that used with the '664 but the keyboard unit is smaller, sleek and more business-like. Many of the keys have been moved and the overall height reduced. The extra 64K RAM is bank switched and allows the computer to run CP/M+. This alleviates the problem of a small TPA (Transient Program Area) on the '664. CP/M + has many advantages over standard CP/M. A set of utilities allows programmers to benefit from the extra RAM. The disc copying and formatting program is streets ahead of the standard copydisc utility. There is a program to aid Basic programmers who want to use the extra memory, called “Bank Manager”, which provides a set of RSX's to allow you to simulate a RAM filing system or flip between screens. The CPC6128 is the first Amstrad product to be sold in America, this has only been possible because of Indescomp's confidence in the machine and willingness to enter a market which is traditionally hostile to European computer manufacturers. Many deals have already been tied up to ensure distribution, sales and support for both hardware and software. One of the most important of these is a deal with Sears Roebuck & Company, a major high-street retailer. The CPC6128 is software compatible with the CPC664 and will run CP/M 2.2, which is included with the package. One nice addition to the Stateside set-up is the inclusion of three blank discs with each computer and the world famous 'WordStar' word processor for green screen users. With a colour system (color? - Ed) the users get the not quite as famous 'Amsword' word processor and a copy of 'Roland in Time' Amstrad Computer User hopes to have a full review of this exciting new development in the near future. Watch this space! Amstrad User August 85
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