Sharp X1C

<p>The Sharp X1C was a more compact and refined version of the original X1, released in October 1983. It retained the series’ 4 MHz Z80 architecture, colourful programmable graphics and flexible media-loaded software environment in a redesigned case.</p><p>Later X1Cs and X1Ck variants developed the compact design with detail changes and, on the X1Ck, built-in support for Japanese kanji characters. Together they broadened the X1 family while remaining compatible with its established software.</p>

<h6>Notable Features</h6><ul><li>Compact redesign of the original X1 while retaining software compatibility.</li><li>Programmable character graphics and eight-colour display modes remained central to the system.</li><li>The later X1Ck added a kanji character ROM for improved Japanese text support.</li></ul><h6>Historical Significance</h6><ul><li>Extended the X1 range a year after the original machine and helped establish a succession of lower-profile desktop models.</li><li>The June 1984 X1Cs and X1Ck are treated here as variants because their core architecture remained closely aligned with the X1C.</li></ul><h6>Collector's Notes</h6><ul><li>Several case colours and closely related model suffixes exist; model labels should be checked when identifying a system.</li><li>Matching Sharp displays, keyboards and cassette or disk accessories make complete examples more desirable.</li></ul>

Specifications

Technical Information
Name	Sharp X1C
Manufacturer	Sharp
Launched	Saturday, October 1, 1983
Country	Japan
CPU	Sharp Z80A at 4 MHz
Units Sold
Software	Compatible with the established X1 software library
Variants	X1Cs CZ-803C and kanji-equipped X1Ck CZ-804C
Expansion	X1 expansion and disk interfaces
Keyboard	Integrated low-profile keyboard
Storage	Cassette; optional 5.25-inch floppy disk drives
Sound	AY-3-8910 or compatible three-channel PSG
Display	40 or 80 columns by 25 lines; 320×200 or 640×200 in 8 colours
Video RAM	4KB text VRAM, 6KB programmable-character RAM; optional graphics RAM
RAM	64KB
CPU Speed	4 MHz