TRS-80 Model 16

Launched in February 1982, the TRS-80 Model 16 was Tandy’s first dual-processor system, combining a Zilog Z80Aand a Motorola 68000 CPU to support both legacy TRSDOS and the powerful Xenix multitasking operating system. Built as an evolution of the Model II, the 16 was marketed to small and medium businesses needing affordable multi-user capability. The machine’s integrated 15" monitor and 8" floppy drives housed an OS that could support multiple terminals and users simultaneously — bringing minicomputer power to the desktop at a fraction of the price.

Notable Features

• Dual-processor architecture: Z80A for legacy software, 68000 for multitasking Unix-style OS
• Ran Xenix – Microsoft’s licensed UNIX variant for multi-user business systems
• Expandable for up to 6–8 terminals, ideal for multi-user environments
• Professional-grade keyboard and video hardware
• Backward compatible with many Model II and Model 12 peripherals and software

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Historical Significance

• Among the first commercially available UNIX-like desktop systems
• Brought multi-user computing to small offices previously reliant on minicomputers
• Was cheaper and simpler than systems from DEC, Altos, or Fortune
• Preceded the rise of PC-based servers and paved the way for the Model 16B and Tandy 6000
• Often found in libraries, city governments, and educational institutions

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Collector's Notes

• Rarity: Moderate to rare – business-only sales, high scrap rate in 1990s
• Desirability: High for collectors of early Unix-capable or 68000-based machines
• Common Issues:
  • Failing 8" drive motors and belts
  • CRT screen dimming
  • Memory board instability or heat issues
• Display Tips: Ideal to show running Xenix shell with multiple terminal sessions, or WordStar under CP/M mode

Specifications

Technical Information
Name	TRS-80 Model 16
Manufacturer	Tandy
Launched	Monday, February 1, 1982
Discontinued	1985
Launch Price	$4,999 USD
Country	United States
CPU	Zilog Z80A @ 4 MHz (bootstrap + legacy), Motorola 68000 @ 6 MHz (main)
Units Sold	~50,000
Power	Internal PSU (~200W typical), AC only
Operating System	TRSDOS-16, CP/M, or Xenix (Unix System III derivative)
Expansion	Multiple internal expansion slots; supported multi-user serial cards
Storage	Dual 8" floppy drives standard; optional 8–15MB hard disk
Keyboard	Full-travel, professional keyboard with numeric pad and function keys
Sound	None
Graphics	None – character-based display only
Display	15" green phosphor CRT, 80×24 text
ROM	Bootstrap firmware (Z80-controlled)
RAM	128KB–256KB standard (expandable with memory boards)