A new operating system for the Cambridge Computer Z88 (Sinclair latest portable computer) is available. This version runs from an external flash eprom slot and thus is easily upgradeable. It uses a code hook present in the original ROM. This version is now international and handles ISO characters and lots of keyboards. All details are on the wiki.
I didn’t know people were still developing for the Z88—this is very cool.
I think it might be about time I picked one up… the price has come down a lot in the past twelve years!
One of my friends used a Z88 for years, taking notes in meetings and even writing up long essays. I had a play with it and was pretty impressed at the time, although I ended up using a Psion palmtop instead.
The Z88 was a very nice portable computer in its day, and in my opinion it was one of the best computers Sir Clive Sinclair released. Unlike the early Sinclair computers aimed at hobbyists it was a very practical business computer, and it had fewer flaws than the ill fated QL. Considering how bad so many PDA/sub-notebook keyboards still are today, I find it a bit funny that the Z88 had a very usable keyboard, especially considering the horrible keyboards on many desktop Sinclair computers.
It’s interesting to see that people are still using it and actively developing for it. In the current market, where computers are considered ‘obsolete’ in a year or two, it’s amazing what people can do with hardware less powerful than a modern mobile phone.
Time to go on eBay and try to pick one of these up…
I’m always heartened to see fantastic developments like this; there’s something great about working on adding new features like international keyboard support, fixing longstanding bugs and what have you to a device which is surely still very useful, but many would see as obsolete. I’m awed by the talent and tenacity of the people involved!
Although I never owned a Z88 I always wanted one. Just like the PSIONs, I agree with Dave_K that the hardware looked impressively functional (it’s always been more important to me to have a decent keyboard, clear display and long battery life than uber-fast processor and colour screen). And what’s more, the Z88 had BBC BASIC too!
So it’s great to see development continuing. I wonder if people will still be developing for todays’ mobile phones in 20 years time?!
[q]I wonder if people will still be developing for todays’ mobile phones in 20 years time?! [q]
Sure. If they are great and worthy devices that’ll last for 20+ years, then why not?
Oh and if the manufacturer no longer makes updated versions of the said device anymore.