Sony SMC-70

The Sony SMC-70 was Sony’s first 8-bit personal computer, combining a compact modular case with unusually capable colour graphics and Sony BASIC. It was also among the first commercial computers designed around Sony’s new 3.5-inch microfloppy format.

Six internal plug-in expansion positions and professional video options let the system serve offices, laboratories and television production. CP/M disk software complemented the built-in BASIC environment.

Notable Features

• Early adoption of Sony’s 3.5-inch microfloppy format.
• Modular internal construction accepted six plug-in expansion units.

Historical Significance

• Sony’s first 8-bit personal computer and the foundation of its SMC range.
• SMC-70G and GP variants adapted the platform for professional video titling and genlock work.

Collector’s Notes

• The G and GP are specialist video configurations covered here rather than separate general-purpose computers.
• Original 3.5-inch drives, expansion modules and matching keyboard are difficult to replace.

Specifications

Technical Information
Name	Sony SMC-70
Manufacturer	Sony
Launched	Wednesday, September 1, 1982
Country	Japan
CPU	Zilog Z80A at 4.028 MHz
Units Sold
Operating System	Sony BASIC; CP/M 2.2 with colour extensions
I/O	RS-232C, Centronics, cassette, RGB, composite video and six internal expansion positions
Keyboard	Separate 73-key sculpted keyboard
Storage	Cassette; optional internal/external 3.5-inch floppy, 8-inch floppy and hard disk
Sound	Five-octave single-voice tone generator
Graphics	160x100 in 16 colours, 320x200 in 16, 640x200 in 4 or 640x400 monochrome
Display	RGB or monochrome composite monitor, 80x25 or 40x25 text
ROM	48KB containing Sony BASIC and monitor
RAM	64KB main RAM, 32KB graphics RAM and 6KB character RAM
CPU Speed	4.028 MHz