HP 85

A hybrid between a desktop calculator and a true computer. While not exactly known for its speed, the HP 85 boasted very good graphics for its time (320 x 200 pixel resolution), including a built-in thermal printer with hardcopy capability. The integrated cartridge drive had a true file system and could automatically launch a program upon power-up.

It can be considered a competitor to the IBM 5110, although its later release made it technically far more advanced and elegant.

Screen with demo program

The HP 85 was particularly popular due to its graphics capabilities and the BASIC language specifically designed for them. This allowed for easy drawing either on the screen or on the printer. Here, the screen displays the BASIC listing of a small demo program from the manual.

Printout

Here you can see the drawing that the program generates on the built-in printer, as well as the listing printed out again.