Tandy Pocket Computer PC-6

The Tandy PC-6 updated the folding scientific pocket-computer design with 8KB RAM, expandable to 16KB, and 65 built-in scientific functions. It remained compatible with the PC-4 family’s cassette and printer accessories through an adapter cable.

The larger memory made the PC-6 the most capable of Tandy’s Casio-derived folding BASIC pocket computers.

Notable Features

• The handheld uses Hitachi HD61747-series processor.
• Program and working memory was 8KB; expandable to 16KB.
• Information is shown on 24-character alphanumeric LCD.

Historical Significance

• The larger memory made the PC-6 the most capable of Tandy’s Casio-derived folding BASIC pocket computers.
• The machine was manufactured for Radio Shack by a Japanese calculator or electronics company and given Tandy/TRS-80 branding.

Collector’s Notes

• LCD condition and battery leakage are the most important checks on surviving pocket computers.
• The matching printer, cassette interface, cables, manuals and memory modules make a more complete system.

Specifications

Technical Information
Name	Tandy Pocket Computer PC-6
Manufacturer	Tandy
Launched	Thursday, January 1, 1987
Launch Price	$119.95
Country	United States
CPU	Hitachi HD61747-series processor
Units Sold
Operating System	BASIC and assembly language
I/O	Cable connection to PC-4-series cassette and printer accessories
Keyboard	Folding scientific and alphanumeric keyboard
Storage	Internal memory; optional cassette and thermal-printer interfaces
Sound	Programmable beeper or key feedback where supported
Graphics	Character-oriented LCD with no general bitmap graphics
Display	24-character alphanumeric LCD
ROM	ROM containing BASIC, assembly support and scientific functions
RAM	8KB; expandable to 16KB
CPU Speed	Clock speed not published