Historic Processor Technology Sol-20 Terminal Computer, the first fully assembled microcomputer with a built-in keyboard and television output, which includes an uncommon four-drive Helios II Disk Memory System, and a matching rolltop desktop file storage containing over 30 Scotch 3M 8-inch floppy disks. The Sol-20, which measures 18.5˝ x 6.25˝ x 17.5˝, bears a manufacturer's label to the back: "Sol Terminal Computer, Model No. 20, Serial No. 40111, Power: 117 Volts 60Hz AC Only, Patents applied for, Processor Technology Corporation, Emeryville, California, USA." The computer features a blue metal case with a built-in keyboard, wooden sides, and ports on the reverse, including a cassette interface, parallel data interface, and serial communication interface.
The robust Helios II Disk Memory System, 14.25˝ x 9.25˝ x 21˝, features a set of four floppy disk drives to the front, and the back contains two vents, nine connection ports, three female outlets, and one male power supply outlet. The Helios II used a unique recording technique known as ‘firm’ sectoring. Under optimum conditions, each loaded diskette could store 384,000 bytes of information. Firm sectoring also allows for faster data access and variable block sizes.
The blue-and-gray rolltop storage container, 10˝ x 11˝ x 18˝, contains a total of 36 eight-inch floppy disks, which are annotated on their labels with myriad programs and installations, like “ACCPAC - Financial Report System Disk,” “Word Wizard Document Disk,” “Datamaker,” “Terminal Systems Disk,” “Target Game,” and more. The consignor notes that the Sol-20 and Helios II have been tested to be in working order; RR Auction has not confirmed the functionality of either machine, which are in fine cosmetic condition, with some light wear, scuffs, and soiling. Accompanied by user manuals for the Sol Terminal Computer, Word Wizard, Mail Sort, Mail Master, and PTDOS, as well as additional floppy disks.
Introduced in 1976 by Processor Technology, the Sol-20 is historic as the first complete personal computer. It features an all-in-one design with a built-in keyboard and power supply, making it more user-friendly than earlier hobbyist systems. Based on the Intel 8080 processor, its design was originally suggested by Popular Electronics editor Les Solomon, and it appeared on the cover of the July 1976 issue of the magazine as a 'high-quality intelligent terminal.' The Sol-20 remained in production until 1979, by which time about 12,000 machines had been sold.
