Using a Timex/Sinclair 1000 with a video monitor instead of a TV set gives a dramatic improvement in the picture quality. This is particularly so with respect to the TS1000 graphic symbols.
Although the computer comes only with a standard RF output, it is comparatively easy to provide an additional monitor output. My modification requires only a single transistor: a Radio Shack 276-2009 or equivalent. No traces have to be cut on the TS1000 board. The result is a display with full brightness and contrast on any run-of-the-mill monitor. The modification should take no more than 10 minutes to perform.
To perform the operation, first remove the Phillips screws on the bottom of the computer (some of these screws are hidden under the rubber feet). Then make the soldered connections as shown in Figure 1. Tap the video input to the RF modulator and use one of the other two inputs as power supply (B+) for the transistor. To get B+ on the lead indicated, the computer channel switch must be kept in the Channel 2 position.
The video voltage at the input to the RF modulator is approximately 1 Volt peak to peak. This would be sufficient to drive a monitor with sufficient contrast and brightness. However, the source impedance at this point is nearly 1000 Ohms. Therefore, a direct connection to a 50-75 Ohm monitor means a voltage drop to less than 100 mV. The result would be marginal brightness and contrast. The NPN transistor connected in the emitter follower configuration, as shown, provides the required impedance transformation, so that the full 1 Volt peak to peak reaches the monitor independent of the impedance of the monitor.
Next, decide where to mount the video monitor output jack. You can mount it next to the RF output, or, if you are not planning to use the RF output, you can use the RF jack and bypass the RF modulator. My own solution, though not a very neat one, was to let two wires dangle through one of the holes and to connect the wires to the monitor with clip leads.