The Exidy Sorcerer was one of the earliest Home Computers, it was launched in 1978. Compared to the competition, the machine had better graphics capability and memory options. It was based on the Z80 architecture which ran at a modest 2MHz.
The Sorcerer was also one of the first home computers that used ROM cartridges as a means of loading software. The cartridge was designed so that it fit in existing 8-track tape casings, which reduced the manufacturing cost. The Sorcerer came standard with a Microsoft BASIC ROM cartridge.
Despite the fact that the marketing was lacking, the machine sold well in Europe. In the Netherlands, the educational broadcasting company TELEAC decided to launch a computer course and viewers could purchase the course bundled with a Sorcerer.
In Europe the Sorcerer was distributed by CompuData, which licensed the design for local production in the Netherlands. Compudata produced the Exidy Sorcerer until 1983 and then switched to a machine of their own design, the Tulip computer which was a 8088-based architecture.
Two versions of the Sorcerer were produced, after some reported problems with the RS-232 serial port on the initial machines, a revised machine the Sorcerer II (DP1000-2 motherboard) was produced, replacing it.
Various hobby groups in the Netherlands and Australia developed RAM upgrades, speed upgrade kits, 80-column add-on cards and updated ROMs that replaced the internal monitor boot-loader program.
Re-used 8-track cartridge shell
The designers of the Exidy Sorcerer used 8-track tape cases as the basis for their catridge design, reducing manufacturing costs.
512x240 Mono Sprites none System OS Monitor System Storage External Tape, ROM cartridges Original Price $895