Atari introduces the 1200XL computer

Press Release, Monday December 13, 1982

NEW YORK, Dec. 13 /PRN/ -- One of the most dramatic breakthroughs in home computer technology was unveiled today when Atari, Inc., a major consumer electronics company, introduced its new competitively-priced state-of-the-art 1200XL computer featuring 64K of memory.

At a press conference here, Atari presented its new generation home computer which has the capability of utilizing existing Atari computer software and peripherals.

The Atari 1200XL has 12 user programmable function keyes, including an international character set which provides:

• Shifting the keyboard into a European character set (from the regular graphics set) that includes special symbols for currency and grammar.
• Disabling the operation of the keyboard to assure that as programs are being run they aren't interrupted by the accidental touch of a key.
• Turning off the screen to preserve the quality of the monitor when the computer is left on and unattended for extended periods.
• A "help" key that provides the user with helpful instructions on selected programs used with the computer. The "help" key also performs self-diagnosis -- as requested by the user on the memory, audio visual and keyboard to assure that all components are in peak operating condition and that all external wiring connections are intact.

In addition, The Atari 1200XL home computer incorporates a number of design improvements including:

• The program cartridge slot has been shifted to the side of the new computer. And to make it simpler to insert, there are no longer doors to open and close.
• Two additional lights on the computer indicate whether the specific functions of the locking keyboard or shifting to the European character set are in use.
• One touch cursor controls to streamline cursor movement.
• A spectrum of 256 colors available for display on the monitor as well as four distinct sound "voices" covering 3-1/2 octaves on the computer's built- in speaker.
• Two controller ports to use with the same joysticks and paddles as well as numerical keypads.

The Atari 1200XL home computer also works with any television set or monitor. Raymond E. Kassar, chairman and chief executive officer of Atari, Inc. said, "We believe that the Atari 1200XL will set the standard for a new generation in home computing and, once again, positions Atari on the leading edge of electronic technology and creative computing."

Its sleek, polished metal, low-profile package is perhaps the first computer specifically designed for the home as an attractive item of furniture in any decor. To maintain an integrated systems look, future peripherals for the computer will feature the same styling. "With its user aids and beautiful packing, the Atari 1200XL is one of the 'friendliest' computers ever built -- and at an affordable price."

Atari said the retail price of the 1200XL home computer will be announced in January, 1983, at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. Initial deliveries will take place during the first quarter, 1983.

Atari, Inc., is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Warner Communications Inc., and is a leading designer and manufacturer of home computers and peripherals in home video games, coin-operated games, and programs for a variety of applications.

Creative Computing, vol 9, no 4, April 1983, p. 50

The Atari 1200XL home computer at the Winter CES in Las Vegas, January 6-9, 1983

Atari announced at the show that the suggested retail price for the 1200XL would be US$899.

This page by Michael Current, April 2008