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Acorn Atom

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description Acorn Atom Overview

The Acorn Atom was an 8-bit home computer introduced by Acorn Computers in 1980, not an ARM-based machine released in 1993. It used a MOS Technology 6502 processor and was sold both as a kit and as an assembled computer, with BASIC available in ROM and programs commonly stored on cassette. The Atom was aimed at hobbyists, learners and home users, and its design formed part of Acorn's development path toward the later BBC Micro.

help Acorn Atom FAQ

When was the Acorn Atom released?

The Acorn Atom was introduced in 1980 by Acorn Computers. It was an 8-bit home computer based on the MOS Technology 6502 processor.

Was the Acorn Atom an ARM computer?

No. The Atom predates Acorn's ARM-based machines and used a MOS 6502 CPU. ARM technology became associated with later Acorn computers, including the Acorn Archimedes line.

Could you buy the Acorn Atom as a kit?

Yes. Acorn sold the Atom both as a kit and as an assembled computer, giving hobbyists the option to build or buy a ready-made system.

How were programs stored on the Acorn Atom?

The Atom included BASIC in ROM, and programs were commonly stored on cassette tape. This was typical of many early home computers before disk drives became common.

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