Ken digs up the Timex Sinclair 1000. When this tiny computer was released in 1982 for $99, it was the cheapest home computer on the market. Ken walks through the device's features, his challenges using it, and contemplates what it will take to get the thing running again (a rainy Saturday project if there ever was one).
Chapters
0:00 Introducing the Timex Sinclair 10000:35 First Impressions & Form Factor Throwback1:15 The Tech Behind the Machine2:25 Programming Memories & BASIC Adventures4:10 From Sinclair to Commodore 64
Listen to the Episode
Watch to the Episode
Watch "Timex Sinclair Computer" on YouTube.
Show Notes
Unboxing the Timex Sinclair 1000: cheapest home computer of 1982
How it worked: plugged into a black-and-white TV, used cassette tapes as storage
Membrane keyboard woes: sore fingers, missed keystrokes, and perseverance
Programming in BASIC from magazine printouts (like Byte Magazine)
Memories of building a skiing game and early D&D tools
Sinclair's role as a gateway to more powerful machines: Commodore 64, 128, Apple II Plus
Discussion of family influence—Ken’s mom, a programmer, inspired him
Future challenge: will it still boot in 2025?
