Sharp X1 turbo Z III

<p>The Sharp X1 turbo Z III was the final computer in the entire X1 family. Released in December 1988, it retained the turbo Z II’s core graphics, sound and memory capabilities while reducing cost through a simplified set of external connectors and audio controls.</p><p>Although presented as an economy revision, surviving hardware shows detail changes including increased video memory. It closed a six-year line that had grown from a colourful cassette computer into one of the most elaborate 8-bit multimedia systems.</p>

<h6>Notable Features</h6><ul><li>Final and lower-priced development of the turbo Z architecture.</li><li>Retained 4,096-colour graphics, FM audio and New Z-BASIC compatibility.</li><li>Omitted the external floppy, digital RGB and dedicated data-recorder connectors of the Z II.</li></ul><h6>Historical Significance</h6><ul><li>Concluded the X1 series in December 1988, six years after the original model.</li><li>Coexisted with Sharp’s newer X68000 line, which had already become the company’s prestige computer.</li></ul><h6>Collector's Notes</h6><ul><li>The reduced connector set is a quick external clue when distinguishing it from a turbo Z II.</li><li>Late production and status as the final X1 make complete Z III systems particularly interesting to collectors.</li></ul>

Specifications

Technical Information
Name	Sharp X1 turbo Z III
Manufacturer	Sharp
Launched	Thursday, December 1, 1988
Launch Price	¥169,800
Country	Japan
CPU	Sharp Z80A at 4 MHz
Units Sold
Model Number	CZ-888C
Text Support	Japanese kanji ROM and high-resolution text
Software	New Z-BASIC and compatible X1 turbo software
Removed Ports	No external FDD, digital RGB or dedicated data-recorder connector
Video Memory	Expanded implementation compared with the turbo Z II
Storage	Two built-in 5.25-inch floppy disk drives
Sound	Yamaha YM2151 FM synthesis plus PSG with combined volume control
Display	320×200 with up to 4,096 colours; 640×400 in 8 colours
RAM	64KB main RAM plus 64KB expansion RAM
CPU Speed	4 MHz