1. What Was the TRS-80 Color Computer (CoCo)?

The TRS-80 Color Computer, affectionately known as the CoCo, was a home computer released by Tandy/Radio Shack in 1980. Unlike the monochrome TRS-80 Model I, the CoCo featured color graphics, sound capabilities, and a focus on home gaming and education. It was based on the Motorola 6809 CPU — one of the most powerful 8-bit processors of the time.

Over its three generations (CoCo 1, 2, and 3), it evolved into a surprisingly capable and beloved system with a vibrant community that still thrives today.

2. Key Features of the CoCo

• Motorola 6809 CPU: advanced 8-bit processor running at up to 2 MHz in later models.
• Color graphics: supported multiple resolutions and up to 9 colors (16 in CoCo 3).
• Built-in Microsoft BASIC: with specialized commands for graphics, sound, and joystick input.
• Cartridge and cassette support: games and programs loaded from ROM carts or standard audio tapes.
• Expandable system: used a range of Radio Shack peripherals: floppy drives, printers, modems, and more.

3. Games and Community

• Hundreds of original titles: including Dungeons of Daggorath, Donkey King, Color Baseball, and Glove.
• Strong indie scene: CoCo BASIC and assembly coders produced a steady flow of software.
• Joystick and keyboard control: flexible inputs supported both arcade-style and programming apps.

4. Legacy and Modern Revival

The CoCo became more than a computer — it was a lifestyle. It nurtured an entire generation of coders, gamers, and hardware hackers. Today, it lives on through emulators, DIY clones, and an incredibly active online community.

• CoCo 3 upgrade: featured more RAM, better video modes, and full OS-9 multitasking support.
• Retro scene still alive: new games and hardware mods are released by CoCo fans to this day.
• Part of 8-bit royalty: remembered alongside Apple II, Commodore 64, and Atari 8-bit as a pioneer system.