Tandy Color Computer 2

The Tandy Color Computer 2 reduced the original CoCo electronics and power supply into a smaller white enclosure while retaining broad hardware and software compatibility. Later revisions improved the keyboard and video output.

Its lower manufacturing cost and established software library kept the 6809 home-computer platform competitive until the more capable Color Computer 3 arrived.

Notable Features

• Motorola 6809E at 0.895 MHz with 16KB or 64KB.
• The principal display was Television output; 32 x 16 text.
• Storage support consisted of Cassette, ROM cartridge and optional floppy-disc system.

Historical Significance

• Its lower manufacturing cost and established software library kept the 6809 home-computer platform competitive until the more capable Color Computer 3 arrived.
• Radio Shack’s large retail network made demonstration, sales and support available well beyond specialist computer dealers.

Collector’s Notes

• Factory memory, drive configuration and regional badge should be checked because many surviving systems were upgraded.
• Original monitors, manuals, software, storage hardware and Radio Shack peripherals add historical context.

Specifications

Technical Information
Name	Tandy Color Computer 2
Manufacturer	Tandy
Launched	Friday, July 1, 1983
Discontinued	1986
Launch Price	$239 USD (16KB model)
Country	United States
CPU	Motorola 6809E at 0.895 MHz
Units Sold
CPU Speed	0.895 MHz; 1.79 MHz available during some operations
RAM	16KB or 64KB
ROM	Color BASIC or Extended Color BASIC ROM
Display	Television output; 32 x 16 text
Graphics	MC6847 video: up to 256 x 192 monochrome or 128 x 192 four-colour graphics
Sound	Six-bit DAC with single-voice software audio
Storage	Cassette, ROM cartridge and optional floppy-disc system
Keyboard	Integrated full-travel keyboard
I/O	RF video, cassette, serial, joysticks and cartridge expansion
Operating System	Color BASIC or Extended Color BASIC; OS-9 available with disk