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SINCLAIR QL Preservation Project (SQPP)

On January 12th 1984 Sir Clive Sinclair presented the Sinclair QLProfessional Computer in a Hollywood-style launch event at theIntercontinental Hotel, Hyde Park Corner, London. This wasexactly 12 days earlier than Steve Jobs presented the AppleMacintosh.

The QL still is a very good example of an innovative, stylish,powerful and underestimated product. On one hand it failed in themarket in the long run but on the other it influenced manydevelopments which ended in today’s products.

In its 25th anniversary year 2009 every month a surprise will be unfold.

Jan 12th— Congratulation to the QL’s 25th birthday. Message

spread to VIP, community and media.http://www.glvsjaguar.homepage.bluewin.ch/SinclairQL 25th anniversary 1984 to 2009.html

Check out this 25th anniversary presentation...

______

http://www.cowo.ch/downloads/SinclairQLis2s-compressed .ppt

Try QPC, a virtual QL running under Windows...http://wwwcowo.ch/downloads/QPC a virtual QL.zip

Feb 1 9th — Massive coverage (11 pages) of the QL in the AprilIssue of Personal Computer World (PCW) magazine.http://www.pcw.co.uk

Mar 12th— SINCLAIR QL Preservation Project (SQPP) launched,

starting with Documents/Publications from Sinclair Research Ltdand various computer magazines of the years 1984 to 1986.http://www.glvsiaguar. homepage.bluewin .ch/SinclairQLrreservation rroject.html

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the Sinclair quantum leap

In 1980, Sinclair startled the world with a computer for less than

It allows you to do more than any other micro availabletoday It tackles business routines with confidence. It plays games ofaltogether exceptional sophistication. It makes the most complexprograms simpler and faster to write or run. And because it’s sopowerful, it’s uniquely user-friendly—gentle and helpful withbeginners, flexible and responsive to advanced programmers.

In fact, the Sinclair QL matches and surpasses theperformance of machines costing thousands of pounds.

Happy 25th anniversary and QL forever!

Urs Konig (aka cowo)http://www.glvsjaguar. homepagebluewin .ch

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It had 1K RAM. It had a black-and-white display. By today’sstandards, it was almost primitive. But it worked — and the ZX8Ostarted Britain’s computer revolution.

Four years — and three computers — later, Sinclair is introducing a product which is even more revolutionary than the ZX8O:the Sinclair QL. It represents a quantum leap in personal microcapability

The Sinclair QL offers an incredible 128K RAM —expandable

It uses a 32-bit processor—the advanced Motorola 68008

It’s supplied complete with a suite of four programs whichoutperform the software for a//existing micros.

It has two built-in Microdrives, each offering 100K of storagefor programs and data.

It has networking capability; a full-size QWERTY keyboard;its own operating system — QDOS — which accommodatesmulti-tasking.

It drives colour and monochrome monitors and TV,incorporates RS-232-C serial interfaces, accepts joystick cursorcontrol...

Yet it costs only £399 to make the Sinclair

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ProcessorsThe Sinclair QL contains two processors, and twocustom-designed control chips.

The main processor is a member of the32-bit Motorola 68000 family—the 68008—widely regarded as the most powerful microprocessors available.

Users of the Sinclair QL will immediatelyappreciate the architecture and instruction setthe 32-bit processor offers. And its power andspeed offer dramatic opportunities for the designof spectacular software, so you can confidentlyexpect a flood of outstanding applicationssoftware to become available, You can also besure that the QL will not become outdated.32-bit architecture is future-proof.

Almost all computers costing under£1000 today use 8-bit processors. Even the newgeneration of business computers, such as theIBM PC, are only now beginning to use 16-bitpcessors. Any computer already using aMtoroIa 68000 chip costs over £2,500—yetwith the Sinclair QL, the 32-bit Motorola 68008is available for less than £400.

Alongside the 68008, a second processoran Intel 8049, controls the keyboard, generatesthe sound, and acts as an RS-232-C receiver.None of the power of the 68008 processor iswasted on these functions.

The two custom chips are unique toSinclair. Like all Sinclair-designed chips they areboth elegant and powerful. One controls displayand memory; the other controls the Microdrives,the real-time clock, local area network, andRS-232-C transmission.

MemoryTogetthe most out ofa powerful processor,powerful programs are needed, often working onlarge amounts of data. Both call for plenty ofmemory—and the Sinclair QL has it.

Most users will find the QL’s 128K ofinternal RAM provides more than enoughcapacity for their largest program, and cuts out thebogey of running out of bytes. It handles the veryadvanced software supplied with the machine,which simply could not run with less memory.

For users with altogether exceptionalamounts of data or very large programs tomanage, a RAM expansion board will be availableto expand the 128K to 640K simply andinexpensively.

Revolutionary QDOSoperating systemThe QL’s 32K ROM contains a new operatingsystem (QDOS) specially developed for the QL.

QDOS is unique to Sinclair, and a keyelement in the QL’S performance. No existingoperating system was remotely capable ofcapitalising on the full power of the 32-bit processor. QDOS sets a new standard in operatingsystems for the 68000 family of processors, andmay well become the industry standard.

QDOS is a single-user, multi-taskingtime-sliced system using Sinclair SuperBASIC as acommand language.

One of its most significant features is a verypowerful multi-tasking capability. Multi-taskingis the ability to use several programs individuallyand simultaneously. The QL also displays theresults simultaneously in different portions of thescreen. Each program running can be scrolledwithin its window independently This feature isnot normally available on computers costing lessthan £7,000.

QDOS has fully device-independentinputJoutput A program can be written withoutreference to the type of device to be used, whichcan be specified when the program is run; andthe QL can sense the type of peripheral devicesconnected to its expansion port and organisetheir input/output.

Sinclair BASIC is the world’s most popularlanguage—for the QL, it has been made evenmore powerful.

The new Sinclair SuperBASIC presents noproblems to anyone used to Sinclair BASIC. Itsimply combines the familiarity of BASIC with anumber of major developments which allow theQL’s full capability to be exploited. It handlesstrings, for example, in the same neat way— butit also handles arrays just as neatly

Its three major advantages over conventional BASIC are that it’s fully procedure structured;its extend able; and its execution speed isindependent of program size.

Anyone writing large programs willappreciate the procedure facility, which allowscode to be written in clearly defined blocks.

Its extendability allows new procedures tobe added by the user which will work in exactlythe same way as the command procedures builtinto the ROM.

And because of its constant executionspeed, SuperBASIC does not get slower asprograms get larger Long programs run muchfaster than with other BASICs.

Over the years, BASIC has come in for agood deal of criticism. Sinclair SuperBASIC putsright what has been described as ‘wrong aboutBASIC.

32-bit architecture, 128K RAM and QDOScombine to give the QL the performanceof a mini-computer for the price of a micro.

Key action is positive and precise.Thekeyboard is quiet, with an audible click to iuidicatethat the key has made contact, without the needto watch the screen.

A membrane beneath the keyboard pro-teds the machine from dust (and coffee!).

The computer can be raised slightly attheback by small detachable feet, for users who findan angled keyboard more comfortable.

MicrodrivesThe Microdrives for the Sinclair QL are identicalin principle to the popular and proven ZX Micro-drives, but give increased capacity and a fasterdata-transfer rate. The cartridges are inexpensiveand removable, and each holds at least 100Kbytes. Typical access speed is 3.5 seconds, andprograms or data can be loaded into the internalRAM at up to 15K bytes per second.

The Sinclair QL has two built-in Micro-drives. If required, a further six units can be connected. (These units should be QL Microdrives—ZX Microdrives are not suitable, though cartridgesare interchangeable with appropriate formatting.)Four blank cartridges are supplied with themachine, and an order form is included to makefurther c- ‘‘ ‘s easy to obtain.

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Sinclair SuperBASIC KeyboardThe QL keyboard is designed for fast, accurateinput of data and programs.

It is a full-size QWERTY keyboard, with65 keys, including a space bar; left - and right-handshift keys; five function keys; and four separatecursor-control keys. All keys are fu Il-travel,ergonomically shaped, and two-shot mouldedso that the characters never wear off.

Both Microdrives and cartridges areexceedingly compact and take up very little spacewithin the machine or on a work-top.

ROM CartridgesThe Sinclair QL has a slot to accept aOL ROMcartridge as the more popular pieces of softwarebecome available in this form. Again, pleasenote that ZX ROM cartridges are not suitablefor use on the Sinclair QL.

5

OutputIn addition to the expansion slot and theMicrodrive extension slot, the Sinclair QLhas no fewer than 9 peripheral ports, neatlyconfigured at the rear.

Local area network: QLANA high-speed communications link for up to64 Sinclair QL and ZX Spectrum computers. Datais passed over the network at lOOK baud, andprotocols ensure that relevant stations are readybefore data is passed. Data may also be broadcastover the network to all computers listenin&

-Reset buttonThis allows the computer to be cleared withoutdisconnecting the power supply

portThe Sinclair QL provides very high resolutionwhen connected to a monitor Two modes areavailable: 512 x 256 pixels, giving 4 colours —

black, white, green, red (or 4 grey scales inmonochrome) and 256 x 256 pixels, giving 8colours (or 8 grey scales) and hardware flash.

The number of characters on the screen isdetermined by the number of pixels, but a choiceof character sets is available. Normal format is85 columns by 25 rows.

Both RGB (colour) and monochromemonitors may be used.

TV portDisplay modes for TV are the same as those fora monitor, but normal format is 40 to 60 columns,depending on software.

Both colour and monochrome TVs maybe used.

LTwo standard communications interfaces forperipherals such as printers and modems. Allowtransmission at rates from 75 baud up to 19,200baud, or transmit/receive in full duplex at sevenrates up to 9,600 baud. (A parallel printer interfacewill be available as an optional extra.)

ROM cartridge slotAccepts one QL ROM cartridge, which simplyplugs in. Up to 32K ROM is possible.

JoysticksProvision is made for the attachment of one ortwo joysticks for games or cursor control. Cursorcontrol is also provided by four separate keys onthe keyboard.

Expansion slot for 05 Mb memory boardand forthcoming peripherals.

•Typical QLAN configuration

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up to 64 systems.

Microdrive extension slot

I RS-232-C printer or modemor terminal. All systemscan use this printer/modem!terminal.

Up to 6 QL Microdrives.

11111All systems can use theseMicrodrives to store or retrieve data

TV or monitor,

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Included—superb professional software

The QL isa software-designer’s dream.Thesoftware supplied with the Sinclair QL has beenwritten by Psion Ltd, and completely outperformsexisting software for micros. No other comparablemachine could even run them. The power of theQL means that the software is both far morecapable and infinitely more simple to use.

There are four programs in the suite —

word-processing spreadsheet business graphics,and database management

They’re written specially for the QL andincorporate many major developments beyondexisting software packages. Each program iscompletely interactive: the results of yourcommands are instantly displayed, not storedinvisibly till you run or print A series of helpfulprompts is always on display—no complexstrings of commands to remember or look upin the manual. Because the suite was designed asan integrated whole, the programs are consistentin design and presentation — learn one, and you’velearned them all. All of them use colour, and datais transportable from one to another (Forexample, up-dated figures can be transferredfrom spreadsheet to graphics for an instant visualpresentation.)

The accompanying manual is clear andsimple — and, most important a single-strokeHELP command displays a complete menu ofappropriate options if you’re ever stuck, andreturns you to preciselythe point you had reachedin your operation.

Members of the Sinclair QLUB can alsocontact Psion at any time for further guidanceor instructions on the operation of any of thefour programs. Full QLUB details are on page 8.

Word-processingCertain to set a new standard of excellence,QL Quill uses the power of the QL to show onthe screen exactly what will be printed — whatyou see is what you get No training is needed —

a beginner can be using QL Quill for word-processing within minutes.

The display is in full colour for maximumclarity, and not even the fastest typist- can beatthe program’s key-in speed.

QL Quill brings you all the facilities of avery advanced word-processing package. Thisprogram on its own is a justification for buyingthe Sinclair QL.

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SpreadsheetOne of the most popular programs for a micro —

and traditionally one of the hardest to come togrips with. Now, it’s no problem.

QL Abacus makes simultaneous calculations and ‘what if’ model-construction easier thanit has ever been. Sample applications are provided,including budget-planning and cash-flow analysis,butthere’s no limitto what you can do.

Unlike other spreadsheets, QL Abacusallows you to refer to rows, columns and cells bythe names you assign to them. You don’t haveto use meaningless letters and numbers.

You can also assign function keys to changea variable and carry out a complete ‘what if’calculation with a single key stroke.

Database managementQL Archive is a very powerful filing system whichsets new standards, using a language even simplerthan BASIC. It combines ease of use—for simpleapplications such as card indices — with hugepower as a multi-file, open-ended data-processor. It includes a screen editor which allowsyou to design your own screen and format yourreports. Procedures and programs may be writtenand saved for repeated use and a full editor isincluded.

QL Archive includes two sample applications—’card index’ and ‘cheque booV

Business graphicsQL Easel is a high resolution colour program soeasy to use you probably won’t refer to themanuall

The program handles anything from lines,shaded curves or histograms to overlapping orstacked bars or pie charts.

QL Easel does not require you to formatyour display before entering data; it handlesdesign and scaling automatically or under yourcontrol.Text can be added and altered as simplyas data.

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Unlocking the power ofthe Sinclair QLThe Sinclair QL provides performance in a classof its own. It is easy to learn, and easy to use.

The manual supplied with the machine isdesigned to ensure that users have immediateaccess to the QL’s full power. It includes:

* a comprehensive description of themachine and how to use it

* learningto program in SinclairSuperBASIC

* a Sinclair SuperBASIC reference manual* a complete guide to QL Quill, Abacus,

Archive and Easelall in an A4 ring binder.

The manual also contains order forms foraccessories and options, details of the comprehensive one-year QL guarantee, and servicinginformation.

The QL expansionprogrammeA vigorous and continuing programme ofenhancements for the QL is under way

Enhancements already under development include

* C compiler* 68000 assembler* terminal emulator* 05 Mb memory expansion board* analogue/digital converter* hard disc (Winchester) interface* modem* parallel printer interface* IEEE-488 interface

Details of these and other peripherals andsoftware can be found inside the brochure flap.

Order forms for the 05Mb expansionboard, QL Microdrives and blank Microdrivecartridges will be sent with your QL.

How to stay in touchwith developments—the QLUBThe QLUB is the QL Users Bureau.

Membership is open to all QL owners; foran annual subscription of £35, QLUB membersreceive one free update to each of the four programs supplied with the QL, and six newsletters ayear. These newsletters will provide technical tipsand suggestions for applications of your QL software, and you can be sure that whenever anynew hardware or software is expected you willbe the first to hear about it and get a chance toorder it

In addition, Sinclair has made exclusivearrangements for QLUB members to obtainsoftware assistance from Psion. If you have anyquestions concerning the use or application ofQL Quill, Abacus, Archive or Easel, all you haveto do is to write to Psion direct, quoting yourQI..UB membership number. Psion will reply,usually within 48 hours.

G UFT FOR ORDER FORM

For £399,professional personal computingwith the Sinclair QL

The Sinclair QL—aquantum leap in personal computing

All the speed and power of 32-bit processorarchitecture.

* Capacity to spare — 128K RAM as standard,expandable to 640K. -

* Two Microdrives buift in, lOOK per cartridge.* Full networking capability — up to 64

Sindair QL and ZX Spectrum computerseach with peripherals.

* RGB or monochrome monitor and TV displayports; RS-232-C; joystick ports.

* Mufti-tasking fadlity with newQDOS operating system.New Sindair SuperBASIC language.Outstanding new software induded forword-processing, database, spreadsheetand business graphics.

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QL computer, power supply, manual, software and blank Microdrive cartridges—the most powerful professional personal computer ever produced. £399.

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QL Order Form

To order by telephone— Phone Camberley (0276) 685311.(Please do not use this numberfor other enquiries.

The operators do not have general or technical information).— Have your credit card number ready. (Access/Barclaycard/Trustcard only)

It may be possible to extend your existing credit limitPlease ask our telephone staff for more details.

To order by mail— Complete the form and send it to the address below.

For credit card purchasers it may be possible to extend your credit limitFull details will be sent when we acknowledge your order.

Please allow 28 days from receipt of order for delivery 14-day money-back option.

For general enquiries— Phone Camberley (0276) 686100 or write to the address below.

Sindair Research Ltd, FREEPOST, Camberley, Surrey, GUI5 3BR.

Send to: Sinclair Research Ltd, Computer Division, FREEPOST, Camberley, Surrey, GUI5 3BR.Item Price Total

Qty Item Code £ £

Sinclair QL Computer 6000 399.00

QLUB membership (one year) 6100 35.00

Postage & packing (any order over £390) 6999 7.95

Tick the appropriate box £

I enclose a cheque made payable to Sinclair Research Ltd for £_____________

LI Please charge my Access/Barclaycard/Trustcard account number I I I I I I I I I I I I I I

Signature I PLEASE PRINT

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