Casio PB-1000
The Casio PB-1000 is a handheld computer from Casio from 1987 . It has the functions of a pocket calculator with a formula memory and a memo database. It can also be programmed in BASIC and assembler . Programs and sequential files can be accessed through a proprietary file system. The device weighs around 0.5 kg and is roughly the size of an average paperback book. It is usually operated with three 1.5 V batteries (AA); the running time is given as 55 to 100 hours.
The calculator has a full alphabetic keyboard and numeric keypad. A shift key enables lower and upper case letters to be displayed. A function key can be used to call up 34 arithmetic and character string functions; Using a shift key, the alphabetical keys can also be used for quick access to BASIC commands.
The PB-1000 has the ASCII character set, Far Eastern characters and a selection of frame graphics. The character set can be redefined using BASIC commands.
The small LC display shows 4 lines of 32 characters each; a character is displayed with 6x8 pixels . The representation extends over 192 × 32 pixels. Another special feature for the year of construction are the 16 touchscreen areas that span the screen in a 4x4 grid. These can also be used in your own programs.
The computer is equipped with 8 KB RAM , which can be expanded to 40 KB. A side interface (RS-232C) can be used to connect peripheral devices (Datasette, 3.5 inch floppy disk drive); there is also a docking station with additional interfaces and external power supply on which the PB-1000 can be attached.
