Commodore

Founding and Early Years

Commodore International was founded in 1954 by Jack Tramiel, initially as a typewriter repair business. Over time, the company transitioned into manufacturing calculators and eventually entered the personal computer market in the 1970s. Commodore's mission was to make computing accessible and affordable for the masses, a vision that would shape its groundbreaking products.

In 1977, Commodore introduced its first personal computer, the Commodore PET (Personal Electronic Transactor). The PET was an all-in-one system with a built-in monitor, keyboard, and cassette drive, making it a pioneer in the personal computing industry. It was part of the "1977 Trinity" of personal computers, alongside the Apple II and TRS-80.

Notable Products

Commodore's legacy is defined by several iconic products:

• Commodore PET (1977): The PET was Commodore's first personal computer and a trailblazer in the industry. It featured a sleek, integrated design and was popular in educational and business settings. Its success established Commodore as a major player in the computing world.

• Commodore VIC-20 (1980): The VIC-20 was the first computer to sell over one million units, making it a commercial success. It was affordable, user-friendly, and featured color graphics, appealing to both hobbyists and families. Its slogan, "The Friendly Computer," captured its approachable design.

• Commodore 64 (1982): The C64 became the best-selling single computer model of all time, with an estimated 12.5 to 17 million units sold. It offered advanced graphics and sound capabilities, making it a favorite for gaming and programming enthusiasts. Its affordability and versatility cemented its place in computing history.

Key Developments

Commodore's journey was marked by innovation and strategic decisions. The acquisition of MOS Technology in 1976 gave Commodore control over the production of its microprocessors, reducing costs and enabling competitive pricing. This vertical integration was a key factor in Commodore's success.

The release of the Commodore 64 in 1982 was a turning point. Its SID (Sound Interface Device) chip and VIC-II graphics chip set new standards for home computing, making it a powerhouse for gaming and multimedia applications. Commodore also invested in marketing, ensuring its products reached a wide audience.

Decline and Dissolution

Despite its early successes, Commodore faced challenges in the late 1980s and early 1990s. The rise of IBM-compatible PCs and mismanagement within the company led to declining sales. Commodore struggled to adapt to the changing market and failed to capitalize on the potential of its Amiga line of computers.

In 1994, Commodore filed for bankruptcy, marking the end of an era. Its assets were sold to various companies, and the Commodore brand faded from the mainstream.

What Are They Doing Today?

While the original Commodore International no longer exists, the Commodore brand has been revived by various entities over the years. Today, it is primarily associated with retro computing and nostalgia. Enthusiasts continue to celebrate Commodore's legacy through emulators, hardware replicas, and online communities.