Casio PV-7

The Casio PV-7 was a low-cost MSX1 computer in a compact dark case with a small chiclet keyboard and standard cartridge compatibility.

Its very small memory and aggressive price positioned it as an entry-level games and learning machine.

Notable Features

• Compact low-cost MSX1 design
• MSX cartridge compatibility
• Small calculator-style keyboard

Historical Significance

• Its very small memory and aggressive price positioned it as an entry-level games and learning machine.

Collector’s Notes

• Only 8 KB RAM sharply limits software; power supplies and regional video versions should be matched carefully.
• Memory, storage, displays and expansion hardware should be documented because configurations often changed during a system’s working life.

Specifications

Technical Information
Name	Casio PV-7
Manufacturer	Casio
Launched	Sunday, January 1, 1984
Launch Price	¥29,800
Country	Japan
CPU	Zilog Z80A compatible
Units Sold
Form Factor	Keyboard console
Power	Internal or external mains supply
Networking	None built in
Operating System	MSX BASIC; MSX-DOS on disk-equipped models
Expansion / I/O	Cartridge, cassette, joystick, printer and video connections
Keyboard	Integrated keyboard
Storage	Cartridge and cassette
Sound	AY-3-8910-compatible three-voice PSG plus noise
Colours	16 on MSX1; expanded palette on MSX2/2+
Graphics	TMS9918-family 256 x 192 pixel graphics
Display	Television or monitor
ROM	MSX BIOS and BASIC plus model firmware
RAM	8 KB main RAM and 16 KB video RAM
CPU Speed	3.58 MHz