Dick Smith System-80/Eaca Video Genie/PMC-80

(Note: Click on the image for a larger view. I also describe this machine in a YouTube video (now in HD!)

Although made in Hong Kong, this microcomputer was sold in a number of western markets to capitalize on the popularity of TRS-80 Model 1. It was an early "clone" i.e. an impressionable work-alike, being almost 100% software compatible. Not only that it had a few extras like a built-in tape deck for computer storage. Unfortunately for EACA, its foray into the U.S. market (home of the said TRS-80 Model 1) under the PMC-80 brand saw Tandy haul out lawyers and the model found itself the subject of a lawsuit.

Although the legal action didn't stop sales, volumes were never high in North America. The EACA machine had better luck in places where the TRS-80 Model 1 was an expensive import such as Europe, New Zealand and Australia. In fact, in the latter two countries this machine became one of the most popular 1980-1981 microcomputers, mainly due to its reasonable price and colourful distributor, Australian icon Dick Smith. It's a "notable" vintage computer, in this part of the world.

I have four of these units, one original MK I, two later Mk I models and one Blue Lable. All are working. Three are in showcase condition. They are accompanied by two expansion units, three Dick Smith disk drives, two Dick Smith monitors and loads of software and manuals. A HxC SD Floppy Disk Drive Emulator substitutes two disk drives if I don't want to drag the original hardware out of storage.

This is my first computer purchased way back in 1981. Go to my other site for some in-depth info on this model.

This page last edited 11th April, 2018