Dragon 64
Enhanced Welsh computer
The 1983 upgrade to the Dragon 32, doubling RAM to 64KB while maintaining 6809 architecture and CoCo compatibility.
Overview
The Dragon 64 was the 1983 enhanced version of the Dragon 32, doubling RAM to 64KB while maintaining the same 6809 CPU and CoCo compatibility. It also added an RS-232 serial port for communications. Released at £299, it competed in the semi-professional market.
Fast Facts
- Released: 1983
- Price: £299
- CPU: Motorola 6809E @ 0.89 MHz
- RAM: 64 KB
- ROM: 16 KB
- Additions: RS-232 serial port
Specifications
| Component | Dragon 32 | Dragon 64 |
|---|---|---|
| RAM | 32 KB | 64 KB |
| Serial | None | RS-232 |
| Price | £199 | £299 |
| Graphics | MC6847 | MC6847 |
| CPU | 6809E | 6809E |
Improvements
| Addition | Benefit |
|---|---|
| 64KB RAM | Larger programs, data |
| RS-232 | Modem connectivity |
| OS-9 capable | Unix-like OS support |
OS-9
The extra RAM enabled OS-9, a sophisticated multi-tasking operating system:
- Unix-like environment
- Multi-user capable
- Hierarchical file system
- Modular design
Legacy
The Dragon 64 showed what the platform could achieve with more resources, but came too late to change Dragon Data’s fortunes. The company folded in 1984, ending the Dragon line.