8-bit Computers

8-bit microprocessors are very simple and basic chipsets that use small data transfer and low cycle rates compared to 16-bit processors or better. Because 8-bit machines use less power and data, despite its lack of other ability and features, it was considered to be the less expensive computer component to be used.

 

Sinclair ZX Spectrum 48K

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:ZXSpectrum48k.jpg 

The very first 8-bit processor was the Intel 8080 in Spring 1974. There are other 8-bit processors that have various compatibles and clock rates that make the computer industry to choose and install the processor that would be suitable for the circuit board. Also the common 8-bit processors series had various embedded chipsets, with additional logic features that enables to boost the processor's loading time, by using the unique operators that can do arithmetic and math processes. And there are also cost reduced variants that engages less power and uses a lower data bus as well.

 

 Intel 8080 8-bit Microprocessor

http://cdn.cpu-world.com/CPUs/8080/L_Intel-8080A%20(CS).jpg

The Zilog Z80 was introduced in Summer 1976 and it is still in production as most standard calculators and watches. The former Texas Instruments Graphic calculators had the Z80 processors for Higher Education Mathematics class, for common calculations and plotting trigonometry graphs, log graphs and geometry. The Z80 had revolutionised the computer industry as it has the clock speed nearly twice than average but it can be slightly expensive for it to be sold to consumers.

 

Zilog Z80 8-bit Microprocessor 

http://cdn.cpu-world.com/CPUs/Z80/L_Zilog-Z80%20CPU%20(wgg).jpg

The MOS 6502 is cost reduced but sluggish - the lower clock rate and power consumption makes it less expensive and beneficial for technology industries to sell their consumer products at a lower price. The MOS 6502 was designed to compete with the Intel 8080 and the Motorola 6800 8-bit microprocessors. MOS 6502 powered machines were used for computers like Acorn BBC machines, Apple II series, Atari 400/800/1200, Commodore 64 and the Atari 2600.

 

Acorn BBC Master Microcomputer 

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Acorn_BBC_Master_Series.jpg 

Most of the home 8-bit machines use the Zilog Z80 CPU or the MOS 6502 in the 1980s due to the low selling prices for consumers to easily purchase, while the early 16-bit computers like the Macintosh 128k or better with the Motorola 68000 had a introductory price around $2000. The Sinclair ZX Spectrum was a successful 8-bit mahcine built in the UK and had the cheapest selling price under £200, compared to other 8-bit major selling computers. The Windows 3.x that are compatible with the Intel 80386 16-bit processor are also considered to be expensive when it was first released, but most users found the early 8-bit computers consumer price more competitive as it was easily affordable until 8-bit computers became obsolete and the 16-bit computer price undergo deprecation.

 

MOS Technology MC6502A 8-bit Microprocessor

http://cdn.cpu-world.com/CPUs/650x/L_MOS-MCS6502%20(purple).jpg

Many 8-bit computers have been discontinued throughout the computer industry globally, but most 8-bit chipset are still used for digital watches and calculators. Also the Z80 family had a few improvements and enhancements such as the metal conductors and unique embedment that had increased the Z80's clock cycle. The Z80 was also used as a coprocessor, like the Sega Mega Drive as the main processor was a Motorola 68000 (16-bit).