Tandy TRS-80 Model 16

The Tandy TRS-80 Model 16 added a 6 MHz Motorola 68000 processor and private memory to the Model II architecture while retaining the Z80 as an input/output processor. It could run Microsoft Xenix as a multi-user business system.

Affordable Unix-like operation and support for multiple terminals placed capabilities associated with minicomputers into a Radio Shack desktop product.

Notable Features

• Zilog Z80A at 4 MHz with Motorola 68000 at 6 MHz with 64KB Z80 memory plus 128KB or 256KB 68000 memory.
• The principal display was Built-in 12-inch green monochrome CRT; 80 x 24 text.
• Storage support consisted of One or two 8-inch floppy drives with hard-disc options.

Historical Significance

• Affordable Unix-like operation and support for multiple terminals placed capabilities associated with minicomputers into a Radio Shack desktop product.
• 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 TRS-80 Model 16
Manufacturer	Tandy
Launched	Monday, February 1, 1982
Discontinued	1983
Launch Price	$4,999 USD
Country	United States
CPU	Zilog Z80A at 4 MHz with Motorola 68000 at 6 MHz
Units Sold
CPU Speed	4 MHz Z80 host; 6 MHz 68000
RAM	64KB Z80 memory plus 128KB or 256KB 68000 memory
ROM	Boot and host firmware
Display	Built-in 12-inch green monochrome CRT; 80 x 24 text
Graphics	Text display with optional graphics hardware
Sound	Internal beeper
Storage	One or two 8-inch floppy drives with hard-disc options
Keyboard	Separate professional keyboard with numeric keypad
I/O	Expansion card cage, printer, serial, terminal and external storage interfaces
Operating System	TRSDOS/CP/M on Z80; Microsoft Xenix on 68000