Torch C-68000

The Torch C-68000 extended the Communicator design with a Motorola 68000 processor and dedicated memory alongside the BBC-derived 6502 and Z80 subsystems. The additional processor allowed the workstation to run Unix System III and the UCSD p-System as well as CPN.

Its unusual three-processor architecture gave Torch a path from established CP/M business applications to larger scientific and development software while preserving the networking and communications strengths of the C series.

Notable Features

• Three-processor architecture combined 6502, Z80B and 68000 computing environments.
• Motorola 68000 section included 256KB RAM and supported Unix System III.
• Retained Torchnet communications and BBC-compatible display and interface hardware.

Historical Significance

• Moved Torch’s BBC-derived systems into the emerging Unix workstation market.
• Provided software continuity across BBC MOS, CPN, UCSD p-System and Unix environments.

Collector’s Notes

• Processor, memory and storage boards should be identified carefully because C-series systems were modular.
• Unix installations require an appropriate hard disk and surviving Torch system media.

Specifications

Technical Information
Name	Torch C-68000
Manufacturer	Torch Computers
Launched	Sunday, January 1, 1984
Country	United Kingdom
CPU	MOS 6502A, Zilog Z80B and Motorola 68000
Units Sold
Operating System	BBC MOS, CPN, UCSD p-System and Unix System III
I/O	Modem, serial, parallel, 1MHz bus and Torchnet
Keyboard	Integrated or matched business keyboard
Storage	Floppy storage; hard disk required for Unix
Sound	BBC-compatible sound
Graphics	BBC-compatible colour graphics
Display	RGB, UHF or business monitor
ROM	Torch MCP, CPN and processor firmware
RAM	BBC memory plus Z80 memory and 256KB for the 68000
CPU Speed	Processor-dependent; Z80B and Motorola 68000 subsystems