Fujitsu FM-7

The Fujitsu FM-7 translated the FM-8’s dual-6809 architecture into a smaller and much less expensive home computer. It retained 64KB of RAM and colourful 640x200 graphics while adding capable three-voice programmable sound.

F-BASIC in ROM and a strong Japanese software library made the FM-7 a major domestic rival to NEC and Sharp systems. Cassette storage was standard, with external floppy drives available for more serious use.

Notable Features

• Retained the FM-8’s two-processor architecture at a far lower price.
• Combined high-resolution colour graphics with AY-3-8910 sound.

Historical Significance

• Became one of Japan’s important early-1980s home computers.
• Created the software base for the FM-77 and FM77AV families.

Collector’s Notes

• Most software and documentation is Japanese-language.
• Disk interfaces and drives were external options rather than standard equipment.

Specifications

Technical Information
Name	Fujitsu FM-7
Manufacturer	Fujitsu
Launched	Monday, November 1, 1982
Launch Price	¥126,000
Country	Japan
CPU	Motorola 68B09 at approximately 2 MHz with Motorola 68B09 display processor
Units Sold
Operating System	F-BASIC; optional disk operating software
I/O	Cassette, printer, joystick, expansion and display interfaces
Keyboard	Integrated keyboard
Storage	Cassette; optional external 5.25-inch floppy drives
Sound	AY-3-8910, three tone channels plus noise
Graphics	640x200 in 8 colours
Display	RGB monitor or television
ROM	F-BASIC
RAM	64KB main RAM and 48KB video RAM
CPU Speed	Approximately 2 MHz