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Processor Technology Sol-20 Terminal Computer from the personal collection of Byte Shop founder Paul Terrell, representing the first fully assembled microcomputer with a built-in keyboard and television output. 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. 401882, 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. Complete with its power cord and Sol Systems Manual, housed in its original binder (fourth printing, February 1978), which exhibits some dampstaining. Untested and in very good cosmetic condition, with scattered scuffs and marks.
Designed by the iconic hardware pioneer Lee Felsenstein (moderator of the historic Homebrew Computer Club) and Bob Marsh, the Sol-20 was introduced in mid-1976 and hit peak production in 1977. It is universally recognized by tech historians as the world’s very first 'all-in-one' pre-assembled personal computer to feature a built-in keyboard, power supply, and video circuitry housed in a single consumer-facing chassis. Its design was originally suggested by Popular Electronics editor Les Solomon (hence the name, Sol-20), 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.
Characterized by its stunning, premium oiled-walnut wooden side panels, the Sol-20 was the luxury sports car of the 8-bit era. Running on a robust Intel 8080A microprocessor, it was sold both as a kit and fully assembled through premier retailers like Paul Terrell's Byte Shop. The Sol-20 completely bypassed the confusing, primitive front-panel toggle switches of the Altair 8800 and IMSAI 8080, setting the functional and aesthetic standard that inspired the Apple II, Commodore PET, and TRS-80.
From the Paul Terrell Collection
