Dragon 32
Welsh 6809 computer
The 1982 Welsh home computer featuring the Motorola 6809 CPU, offering 32KB RAM and compatibility with the TRS-80 Color Computer, though it struggled against the Spectrum and C64.
Overview
The Dragon 32 was a Welsh home computer released in 1982 by Dragon Data Ltd. Based on the superior Motorola 6809 CPU with 32KB RAM, it offered strong programming capabilities and TRS-80 Color Computer compatibility, but struggled commercially against the cheaper Spectrum and more capable C64.
Fast Facts
- Released: 1982
- Price: £199
- CPU: Motorola 6809E @ 0.89 MHz
- RAM: 32 KB
- ROM: 16 KB (Microsoft BASIC)
- Manufacturer: Dragon Data, Port Talbot, Wales
Specifications
| Component | Detail |
|---|---|
| Graphics | MC6847 VDG |
| Resolution | 256×192 (2 colours) or 128×192 (4) |
| Text | 32×16 characters |
| Sound | 1-bit DAC |
| Storage | Cassette, optional disk |
Graphics Modes
| Mode | Resolution | Colours |
|---|---|---|
| Text | 32×16 | Green/orange |
| Semigraphics | 64×32 | 8 |
| High-res | 256×192 | 2 |
| Medium-res | 128×192 | 4 |
CoCo Compatibility
The Dragon was largely compatible with the TRS-80 Color Computer:
- Same 6809 CPU
- Same MC6847 video chip
- Similar memory map
- Most CoCo software ran with minor changes
Strengths and Weaknesses
| Strengths | Weaknesses |
|---|---|
| Superior 6809 CPU | More expensive than Spectrum |
| Good keyboard | Limited sound (1-bit) |
| CoCo compatibility | VDG graphics restrictive |
| Solid construction | Smaller software library |
Legacy
The Dragon represented Welsh ambition in the home computer market. Though Dragon Data folded in 1984, the machine introduced UK users to the elegant 6809 architecture and maintains an active preservation community.