Acorn BBC Micro Model B

The Acorn BBC Micro Model B was the fully equipped version selected for the BBC Computer Literacy Project. Its 32KB RAM, extensive interfaces and exceptionally flexible display system made it a powerful education and home computer.

The Model B became a defining British microcomputer, established BBC BASIC and supported an unusually rich ecosystem of networking, storage and second processors.

Notable Features

• MOS Technology 6502A at 2 MHz forms the centre of the system.
• The standard memory and storage configuration was 32KB RAM and Cassette interface; optional 5.25-inch floppy drives and network storage.
• Its principal display arrangement was Television, composite video or RGB monitor.

Historical Significance

• The Model B became a defining British microcomputer, established BBC BASIC and supported an unusually rich ecosystem of networking, storage and second processors.
• This page represents a distinct Acorn model rather than a regional, memory-only or bundled-software variation.

Collector’s Notes

• Original keyboards, power supplies, manuals, expansion cards and storage hardware materially improve a surviving system.
• Internal revisions and dealer-installed upgrades mean an individual machine should be checked against its serial label and fitted hardware.

Specifications

Technical Information
Name	Acorn BBC Micro Model B
Manufacturer	Acorn Computers
Launched	Tuesday, December 1, 1981
Discontinued	1986
Launch Price	£335
Country	United Kingdom
CPU	MOS Technology 6502A at 2 MHz
Units Sold
CPU Speed	2 MHz
RAM	32KB RAM
ROM	32KB MOS and BBC BASIC ROM; sideways ROM expansion
Display	Television, composite video or RGB monitor
Graphics	Eight display modes; up to 640 x 256 monochrome or 160 x 256 in eight colours
Sound	Texas Instruments SN76489; three tone channels plus noise
Storage	Cassette interface; optional 5.25-inch floppy drives and network storage
Keyboard	Integrated 74-key keyboard with ten function keys
I/O	RGB, composite, UHF, cassette, RS-423, analogue, user, printer, 1 MHz bus, Tube and optional Econet
Operating System	BBC Micro MOS with BBC BASIC