Preview: Sinclair 128

SUM MAGAZINE has recently been able to obtain a Spanish version of the new Spectrum 128 Sinclair computer for evaluation. Next month we intend to have a full review and description of it. This computer is expected to be available in an English version on the English market in about two months. Except for Spanish language keys and prompts, our review model is believed to be the same.

The Spectrum 128 uses the same case as the Spectrum Plus computer. However, the “128K” logo in the lower right, the RS-232 and RGB ports on the side and back, and the separate numeric/cursor keypad marks it as being a different machine. The feel of the keyboard is also better than the Plus and comes much nearer to that of the QL. The RGB port allows direct connection to RGB and composite video monitors which the Spectrum Plus did not provide. The RS-232 port can be used for modems or the Spectrum QL or other serial printer (with proper cable).

The two most interesting features of the 128 is its extra memory and the keypad which plugs into the front of the keyboard and offers both cursor and numeric entry. When in 128K mode, the keypad provides a full screen editor, in effect a simple built-in word processor. The CMND key puts the pad in editing mode. The various cursor marked keys allow moving left or right one character, up or down one line, one page, or to the beginning or end of your document. Apparently the DELETE command can be used in connection with some of the cursor keys for block deletion functions.

Other editing functions available include setting the left margin, word wrap, and insert on/off. These editing functions can be used in both text files and in program listings making programming much easier. Software houses should be able to write much more powerful word processing programs using the built-in editing features of the 128, since most of the basic functions do not have to be programmed in.

When the computer is first turned on, it is in 128K mode. In this mode, access to the added 64K is possible as if it were a type of 64K disk drive. Files and programs can be saved to and loaded from it in just a second or two. While in 128K, BASIC keywords have to be typed in, that 1s, instead of pressing the “J” key for LOAD, the actual letters L, 0,A, and D must be pressed in capitals. Two 128K games included with the computer show some of the power of the “RAM disk”, “Daley Thompson’s Super Test” takes 12 minutes, 45 seconds to load from cassette! As different parts of the game are played the computer calls for those sections from the 64K bank and moves on to them without any noticeable lag in the screen. It is very impressive! In addition, that extra memory allows for very detailed and graphically stunning programs which require a lot of memory.

The Spectrum 128 has basically the same sound capabilities as the Timex 2068, but has no built-in speaker, using instead the TV or separate audio amplifier. A MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) allows connection of various electronic synthesizers, musical keyboards, etc. for advanced music applications.

The Spectrum 128 comes on in 128K mode but can be switched to a regular Spectrum Plus (48K) by typing “SPECTRUM” and pressing the ENTER key then typing NEW and ENTER. This fully emulates the Spectrum Plus. However, this mode can be exited only by turning off the machine or by use of the RESET button.

It is the preliminary opinion of the SUM staff that the Spectrum 128 is a truly outstanding machine which, along with the QL, should keep Sinclair strong in the English market. Pricing at less than $300 should make it very competitive with the Commodore 128, and the large software base make it an attractive purchase. The added memory, keypad, and built-in editor will appeal to software developers as more powerful business applications can developed without having to learn a new operating system. There may be some shifting of the price downward to prevent its competition with the QL. There is no indication that Sinclair will officially bring the computer to the American market, but English Micro Connection and perhaps other U.S. dealers of T/S products will probably import English machines.

SUM’s evaluation machine was obtained from the English Micro Connection. Bob Dyl indicates that he can supply Spanish machines now to anyone interested. He has the 128 manual translated into English.