TRS-80 Model 200

Introduced in 1984, the TRS-80 Model 200 built upon the success of the iconic Model 100, offering a folding clamshell design, a larger 16-line LCD screen, and increased RAM capacity. It retained the Intel 80C85 CPU, Microsoft ROM-based software, and full compatibility with Model 100 programs and peripherals. The improved display and design made it even more useful for writers, journalists, and business users in the field. Despite its superior specs, it sold in lower volumes, likely due to its higher price and the enduring popularity of the Model 100.

Notable Features

• Flip-up “clamshell” LCD screen, allowing better viewing angle and protection

• Larger display with 16 lines vs. 8 lines on the Model 100

• RAM configurations allowed more complex BASIC programs or text documents

• Same ROM suite as Model 100: Microsoft BASIC, TEXT, TELCOM, ADDRSS, SCHEDL

• Still fully solid-state with instant-on operation

• Very durable case and keyboard — great for mobile typists and field workers

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Historical Significance

• First Radio Shack portable to use a folding laptop-style screen

• Used by professionals who needed better screen real estate than the Model 100 offered

• Despite being more powerful, it was overshadowed by the lower price and cult status of the Model 100

• A favorite of early laptop modders and BASIC enthusiasts

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Collector's Notes

• Rarity: High – far fewer made and sold than the Model 100 or 102

• Desirability: Very high among Kyocera portable collectors and laptop historians

• Common Issues:

  • Screen contrast fading

  • Keyboard bounce or stuck keys

  • Backup battery leakage

• Display Tips: Looks great showing its menu-driven ROM interface or running BASIC programs across the full 16-line screen

Specifications

Technical Information
Name	TRS-80 Model 200
Manufacturer	Tandy
Launched	Thursday, March 1, 1984
Discontinued	1986
Launch Price	$999 USD (24KB RAM)
Country	Japan / USA
CPU	Intel 80C85 @ 2.4 MHz
Units Sold	Significantly fewer than Model 100
Power	4 × AA batteries (approx. 15–20 hours), or 6V DC power adapter
Operating System	ROM-based menu interface with BASIC, TELCOM, TEXT, etc.
Expansion	RS-232, parallel port, bar code wand, ROM cartridge
Storage	Internal RAM storage; cassette interface; optional external drives
Keyboard	Full-stroke 56-key keyboard with layout similar to Model 100
Sound	Simple internal beeper
Graphics	Pixel graphics via BASIC (same style as Model 100)
Display	16-line × 40-character monochrome LCD (240×128 pixels total)
ROM	32KB with built-in Microsoft software suite
RAM	24KB or 72KB (depending on model)