The TRS-80 Model 100 Portable Computer
My first team research project at CompuSoft was both exciting and groundbreaking. The TRS-80 Model 100, one of the most innovative computers to emerge from Tandy’s Texas headquarters in years, was ahead of its time. About the size of a notebook, it was a precursor to today’s palmtop computers, featuring an address book, telecommunications capabilities, and a built-in BASIC programming language.
Revolutionary Design
Released in 1983, the TRS-80 Model 100 was among the first truly portable computers. Unlike most machines of its era, it featured a compact and lightweight design, with a built-in 8-line by 40-character LCD screen and full-sized keyboard. It was powered by an Intel 80C85 processor running at 2.4 MHz and supported between 8 KB and 32 KB of RAM, expandable via internal slots.
The Model 100’s design made it ideal for professionals who needed computing power on the go. Journalists, for example, embraced it as a tool for writing and transmitting articles remotely. Thanks to its built-in 300-baud modem and terminal software, users could connect to bulletin board systems (BBS), mainframes, or corporate networks long before the Internet became commonplace.
Built-in BASIC: A Portable Coding Platform
One of the Model 100’s standout features was its built-in Microsoft BASIC, written by none other than Bill Gates himself. This version of BASIC allowed users to write and run their own programs directly on the device, making it an incredibly versatile tool for both hobbyists and professionals. It supported file storage in RAM and allowed data transfer via cassette tape or serial connections, ensuring that work could be saved and transferred easily.
For many users, the inclusion of BASIC made the Model 100 an accessible entry point into programming. It could handle custom applications for data entry, automation, and even early forms of electronic communication.
The Model 100’s influence lasted well beyond its initial release, inspiring a generation of portable computing devices and proving that a compact, self-contained computer could be a valuable tool for professionals across various industries.
Dr. Lien’s Early Adoption
Dr. Lien, an early adopter, frequently traveled the world with his Model 100, using it to dial into the office and exchange emails with staff—more than a decade before the Internet became mainstream.
Dr. David A. Lien routinely traveled with his Model 100
An Interesting Connection
CompuSoft’s office email system originally ran on an Apple II using Bill Blue’s Online messaging software. It was later replaced by software I developed, which eventually evolved into ProLine. This project led to a decades-long collaboration with Bill Blue. He later founded United Software Industries, Inc., where I worked as an assembly language programmer on the MouseTalk application. In 1993, we partnered again to create CTSnet, continuing a professional relationship that spanned over 20 years.
Had CompuSoft not been at the forefront of office communications with Bill’s Online software and a modem, I might never have ventured into telecommunications software and BBSs—nor had the opportunity to meet Bill. That early exposure shaped the direction of my career and led to some of my most significant professional collaborations.