Retro Review: Tandy PC-4

[Eddie W. Shore]

Blog Link here: http://edspi31415.blogspot.com/2019/12/r...puter.html

Model: Tandy PC-4
Company: Tandy/Radio Shack
Type: BASIC Programming Calculator
Based Off Of: Casio PB-100, Radio Shack TRS-80 Pocket Computer PC-4
Memory: 544 bytes or 1,544 bytes with OR-1 RAM card
Years: 1982 (PB-100) - approximately 1986
Display: One line, scrolling display, 12 character screen
Batteries: 2 CR 2032
Program Slots: 10
Other Clones: Olympia OP-544
Peripheral Devices: 12 pin expansion port for FP-12 thermal printer, FA-3 audio cassette recorder

I have the calculator from Ghostbusters. OK, technically the Radio Shack TRS-80 Pocket Computer PC-4 (an earlier version of the Tandy PC-4). However Tandy computers were sold through Radio Shack. Close enough.

Verdict

This is a really basic, programming calculator. I really like the PC-4 as a beginning level programming tool. If you get the PC-4, (or TRS-80 PC-4 from Radio Shack or Casio PB-100), make sure you get it with the RAM card installed or part of the package. There are probably many Android and iOS apps that emulate a PC-4.

The PC-4 is a pleasure to use and the keyboard is responsive.