1980s Technology | Computers, Consoles and Tech Memories

1980s

The 1980s saw home computing, video games and consumer electronics become part of everyday life. This section covers the computers, consoles, software, gadgets and technology that defined the decade, alongside my own experiences and memories of the rapid changes that transformed home entertainment and personal computing.

Amstrad CPC464 and CPC6128

Amstrad CPC464 and CPC6128

After being made redundant in 1984, I treated myself to an Amstrad CPC464 complete with colour monitor. Later upgrading to the CPC6128, the computer became more than a games machine, helping me write job applications and earn a City & Guilds qualification.

Commodore VIC-20

Commodore VIC-20

The Commodore VIC-20 was my first Commodore computer. Bought when prices fell in the early 1980s, it introduced me to cartridge games, BASIC programming and the rare VC-1020 expansion case that transformed the modest VIC-20 into a surprisingly expandable home computer.

Sinclair ZX81

After upgrading from the ZX80, the Sinclair ZX81 became my gateway into home computing. With its improved display, famous 16K RAM Pack and cassette-loaded software, it offered a far better experience—along with plenty of frustration when programs refused to load.

Sinclair ZX80

A magazine advert for the Sinclair ZX80 promised a real home computer for under £100. After weeks of waiting, it arrived and introduced me to BASIC programming, cassette storage and the frustration of debugging endless typing mistakes.

My First Video Recorder

My First Video Recorder

In early 1980, I rented my first video recorder: a Ferguson Videostar 3V00. From recording Tiswas and The Italian Job to mastering its timer, VHS transformed how I watched television and seemed almost magical.

Alba Music Centre

Alba Music Centre

Buying an Alba music centre through my auntie’s mail-order catalogue gave me my first real taste of musical independence and began a lifelong appreciation of vinyl.

1979 to Today: A New Home and a Growing Love of Technology

1979 to Today: A New Home and a Growing Love of Technology

Moving into the house where I still live today marked a new chapter in my technology story. Beginning with an Alba music centre and a growing record collection, my interest soon expanded into VHS, computers, televisions and home cinema.