Byte Interviews Chuck Peddle, Father of the MOS 6502 and Commodore PET (1982)

4 hours ago

Chuck Peddle discusses his role in developing the 6502 microprocessor and the Commodore PET, emphasizing their impact on the personal computer industry.
The Victor 9000/Sirius 1 is presented as a third-generation microcomputer designed for business use, featuring high-resolution screens, multiple disks, and networking capabilities.
Design choices for the Victor 9000 include the Intel 8088 processor for cost-effectiveness and software migration, 128KB standard memory with expansion options, and 5¼-inch floppy drives for compact packaging.
The system emphasizes reliability and performance through features like constant linear speed recording, Group Code Recording, and programmable hardware to support sophisticated software development.
Peddle envisions future business computers focusing on networking, hard disks, and voice capabilities, with a market split between low-cost disposable computers and high-end professional systems.
He predicts that multi-user systems will fade in favor of networking and that multitasking will become essential, while expressing concern about competition from DEC, IBM, and Japanese companies.

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