Acorn System 5

The Acorn System 5 was the final and most capable member of Acorn’s modular System computer family. Faster processing, larger memory configurations and substantial disc storage targeted professional and networked installations.

Although soon overshadowed by the BBC Micro, the System 5 completed the line from which Acorn had grown during its first years.

Notable Features

• MOS Technology 6502 at 2 MHz forms the centre of the system.
• The standard memory and storage configuration was Typically 32KB or 48KB; configurable and Dual 5.25-inch floppy drives with hard-disc options.
• Its principal display arrangement was External monitor.

Historical Significance

• Although soon overshadowed by the BBC Micro, the System 5 completed the line from which Acorn had grown during its first years.
• This page represents a distinct Acorn model rather than a regional, memory-only or bundled-software variation.

Collector’s Notes

• Original keyboards, power supplies, manuals, expansion cards and storage hardware materially improve a surviving system.
• Internal revisions and dealer-installed upgrades mean an individual machine should be checked against its serial label and fitted hardware.

Specifications

Technical Information
Name	Acorn System 5
Manufacturer	Acorn Computers
Launched	Friday, January 1, 1982
Country	United Kingdom
CPU	MOS Technology 6502 at 2 MHz
Units Sold
Operating System	Acorn DOS and BASIC
I/O	Eurocard expansion, floppy, video, printer, serial and user I/O
Keyboard	Integrated full-size keyboard
Storage	Dual 5.25-inch floppy drives with hard-disc options
Sound	Optional sound through expansion hardware
Graphics	Text and graphics through Acorn video hardware
Display	External monitor
ROM	Acorn DOS, BASIC and monitor ROMs according to configuration
RAM	Typically 32KB or 48KB; configurable
CPU Speed	2 MHz