SOL-20

The SOL-20 was one of the first computers to come in a complete, usable form with built-in keyboard and video output, released in 1976 by Processor Technology. It was designed by Lee Felsenstein, a key figure in the Homebrew Computer Club and a pioneer of open computing design.

Unlike many contemporaries that relied on external terminals or toggle switches, the SOL-20 came with a full-travel keyboard, integrated video display support, and ran software from cassette storage. It was a breakthrough in usability and aesthetics for the personal computer market.

💡 Did You Know?

• The SOL-20’s wooden case sides became an iconic design touch, symbolising its bridge between home and industrial computing
• It was often used with CP/M or custom monitors depending on configuration and expansion
• The SOL Terminal Computer was originally designed as a smart terminal but quickly evolved into a full-fledged microcomputer

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