Tatung Einstein 256

The Tatung Einstein 256 repackaged the Einstein architecture in a much smaller keyboard-sized case and dramatically expanded its graphics. Its 256KB memory allocation combined 64KB of processor RAM with 192KB of video RAM controlled by a Yamaha V9938 display processor.

High-resolution modes, a 512-colour palette and multicolour sprites moved the system toward MSX2-class multimedia while retaining compatibility with more than 98 percent of TC-01 software. A built-in 3-inch drive and EDOS preserved the original Einstein’s productive disk-based character.

Notable Features

• Yamaha V9938 video hardware offered seven graphics modes and resolutions up to 512x424.
• A 512-colour palette, 256-colour bitmap mode and multicolour sprites greatly exceeded the TC-01.
• The standard 14-inch monitor also supplied computer power and housed the loudspeaker.

Historical Significance

• A technically ambitious 8-bit successor that preserved almost all original Einstein software.
• Demonstrated Tatung’s UK design team combining CP/M productivity with advanced colour graphics.

Collector’s Notes

• The matching display or television adapter is required to power the computer.
• EDOS, EBASIC and utility software were supplied on the master disk; original copies are important for practical use.

Specifications

Technical Information
Name	Tatung Einstein 256
Manufacturer	Tatung
Launched	Tuesday, January 1, 1985
Discontinued	Late 1980s
Country	United Kingdom
CPU	Zilog Z80A at 4 MHz
Units Sold
Operating System	EDOS; EBASIC; Xtal DOS compatibility; CP/M applications
I/O	RS-232, printer/user, two joystick, cassette and VAMP video/mouse/light-pen interfaces
Keyboard	69-key full-travel keyboard with eight function keys
Storage	Built-in 3-inch drive, 188KB formatted per side; one external drive supported
Sound	AY-3-8910, three tone channels plus noise with stereo headphone output
Graphics	Yamaha V9938; up to 512x424, 512-colour palette, 256-colour mode and 32 sprites
Display	Matching 14-inch colour monitor; 40- or 80-column text
ROM	16KB, expandable to 32KB
RAM	256KB total: 64KB CPU RAM and 192KB video RAM
CPU Speed	4 MHz