Tandy Corporation
Radio Shack's parent
The American electronics company that produced the TRS-80 computer line through its Radio Shack retail chain, including the 6809-based Color Computer series.
Overview
Tandy Corporation was the American electronics company that owned the Radio Shack retail chain and produced the TRS-80 computer line. The company played a significant role in early personal computing, offering affordable systems through its extensive retail network.
Fast Facts
- Founded: 1919 (as leather goods)
- Radio Shack acquired: 1963
- Computer era: 1977-1993
- Notable lines: TRS-80, Color Computer
Computer Products
| Line | Years | CPU |
|---|---|---|
| TRS-80 Model I | 1977 | Z80 |
| TRS-80 Model III | 1980 | Z80 |
| Color Computer | 1980-1991 | 6809 |
| Tandy 1000 | 1984 | 8088 |
Radio Shack Advantage
| Factor | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Retail presence | Thousands of stores |
| Service | Local support available |
| Accessibility | Computers in malls nationwide |
| Training | Store demos and classes |
The TRS-80 Legacy
| Achievement | Significance |
|---|---|
| TRS-80 Model I | Among first mass-market PCs |
| CoCo line | Best-selling 6809 platform |
| Tandy 1000 | Popular PC compatible |
Legacy
Tandy democratised computer access through Radio Shack’s retail presence. While not the most powerful systems, TRS-80 and CoCo computers were accessible, available, and supported—qualities that introduced millions to computing.