Although the Beeb was quite popular, it was also relatively expensive. To make it more accessible, Acorn released a simplified version of the BBC Model B, known as the Acorn Electron.
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To download the original brochure as PDF click the thumbnail (1 Mb!) |
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Acorn introduced the Electron on August 25, 1983, aiming to release it in time for the Christmas rush. At first glance it was similar to the Beeb, using the same 6502A processor, operating system, and BBC BASIC II. However, much of the Electron’s functionality was integrated into a single ULA, reducing manufacturing costs. Unlike the BBC Micro, the Electron lacked the extra circuitry for teletext mode 7 and several expansion ports that could be found the BBC Mirce. The hardware differences made it slower and not 100% compatible with all beeb software.
The basic Electron featured six ports: power in, TV out, Video out, RGB monitor out, Cassette interface, and an expansion connector. It was relatively easy to expand, thanks to Acorn’s Plus 1 and Plus 3 add-ons. The Plus 1 added two cartridge slots, a printer interface, analogue port and extra ROM capability, while the Plus 3 was a complete ADFS 3.5" disc drive system. The Plus 1 could be added to the Plus 3 via an expansion slot on the back. The Plus 3 also included a more powerful power supply to handle the floppy drive’s extra power demands. Even after the original Plus 1 and Plus 3 were discontinued, companies like Slogger and PRES continued to manufacture peripherals for the expansion connector.
The ULA development took too long, and the Electron missed the 1983 Christmas market. By Christmas 1984, it had been largely superseded and never matched the popularity of its larger sibling. Or did it?
Today, there is a vibrant community of enthusiasts. Passionate individuals like Roland Leurs (NL) and 0xCode (NL) have developed new hardware and wonderfull games. In the UK, many fantastic developments continue to keep the Acorn Electron alive. Remakes of the old addons, goteks etc . The retro computing sence embraced this big little machine. Thanks to all these dedicated people! They keep the electron alive!
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