The Wonderful World of the Apple ][
The Apple ][ (aka Apple II) debuted in June of 1977.
The 8-bit computer was ready-to-go out of the box. Powered by well known MOS Technology 6502 processor running at 1.023 MHz, working with 4KB of RAM, and having Integer BASIC build into ROM. This little machine was ready to get to work as soon as its new owner connected it to the TV or available monitor.
One of the first home computers to display color, the machine was a near instant hit.
Originally the Apple ][ was made to store and load data from cassette tape. However, once 5.25'' Disk ][ drive was released in 1978, the computer and its user base really started growing.
Apple II
The original Apple ][ was released in 1977. The machine at right is pictured with a
Data Cassette Deck and standard television. The computer would work as intended whether you had a color or black and white television.
Apple II plus
Released in June 1979, the Apple II Plus was the next version of the machine. 48KB of RAM would now be the standard.
The Integer BASIC was also removed and replaced with AppleSoft BASIC, a product
written by Microsoft.
Apple II Bell & Howell
The all black Bell & Howell version of the Apple II was a version of the machine that
Bell & Howell marketed toward schools. This model tied into their already established Audio
and Video business.
Apple themselves would also market the Apple II line to schools at a discounted rate. This was a very successful venture that made their machines the very first computer kids of the 1980's and 90's had interaction with.
This model is nicknamed the "Darth Vader" because of its all black case.
Apple IIe
The Apple IIe was the next iteration of the series. Now sporting 64KB of RAM, it was
the most powerful Apple II yet.
The computer also built many common after-market upgrades right into the main
system board. Such as 80 column video, the Disk II controller, and the 16KB language card.
This machine also was the first Apple II to feature upper and lower case letters.
The IIe is considered the most popular of the line.
Apple IIc