Hubbry Logo
The Computer ProgrammeThe Computer ProgrammeMain
Open search
The Computer Programme
Community hub
The Computer Programme
logo
7 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
The Computer Programme
The Computer Programme
The Computer Programme
View on Wikipedia
from Wikipedia

The Computer Programme
Logo
Presented byIan McNaught-Davis
Chris Serle
Theme music composerKraftwerk
Opening themeComputer World
Country of originUnited Kingdom
No. of episodes10
Production
Running time25 minutes (approx.)
Original release
NetworkBBC 2
Release11 January (1982-01-11) –
15 March 1982 (1982-03-15)
Related
Making the Most of the Micro

The Computer Programme is a TV series, produced by Paul Kriwaczek, originally broadcast by the BBC (on BBC 2) in 1982. The idea behind the series was to introduce people to computers and show them what they were capable of. The BBC wanted to use their own computer, so the BBC Micro was developed by Acorn Computers as part of the BBC Computer Literacy Project, and was featured in this series. The series was successful enough for two series to follow it, namely Making the Most of the Micro in 1983 and Micro Live from 1984 until 1987.

Presenters

[edit]

The two studio presenters were Ian McNaught-Davis (known as 'Mac') and Chris Serle,[1] the former showing the latter some of the rudimentary basics of computer operation and BASIC programming. The 'on location' reporter was Gill Nevill. The studio made heavy use of the new BBC Micro, which had recently been launched.

Production

[edit]

Filming of the series took place in October 1981, before Acorn had fully completed the development and productionization of the BBC Micro. The machines used on the demonstration segments were in fact early pre-production models which barely worked, and Acorn engineer Steve Furber was working behind the set to keep the machines running (this was depicted on the 2009 BBC dramatisation Micro Men which documented the Sinclair-Acorn rivalry). One of the issues found with the early units was their ULA chips overheating under the studio lights. The linear power supply units (PSU) on the early BBC Micros were also prone to overheating and in some cases, catching fire - something that dogged the early production machines. Fellow Acorn engineer Sophie Wilson also recounted that some of the BBC Micros used in the studio were in fact dummy units connected to a modified Acorn Eurocard system development rack hidden out of sight which was actually running the software.

Format

[edit]

Each programme would normally start with either Serle or McNaught-Davis introducing a real-life situation where computers are being (or could be) applied – examples included the office, a car factory and the British Library. This would form the theme which would underpin the demonstrations shown on the programme.

Distribution

[edit]

The programme was broadcast in the United States in 1983 by PBS.[2]

In addition, stock footage from The Computer Programme was incorporated into the 2009 BBC one-off drama Micro Men, which focused on the early fortunes of British computer manufacturers Sinclair Research and Acorn Computers (manufacturers of the ZX Spectrum and BBC Micro, respectively), which both featured heavily on the show during its original run.

The show was aired as Connecta el micro, pica l'start (Connect the micro, push start) on the Catalan channel TV3. This adapted version included the original 30 minutes taken from the BBC's show plus 15 minutes with original footage. In this original footage the BBC Micro computers were replaced by Dragon 200 computers, which were made in Spain.[3]

Programmes

[edit]

The series was split into 10 programmes, each about 25 minutes long and dealing with a particular subject area. They were as follows (original airdates in brackets):

  1. It's Happening Now – (11 January 1982)
  2. Just One Thing After Another – (18 January 1982)
  3. Talking to a Machine – (25 January 1982)
  4. It's on the Computer – (1 February 1982)
  5. The New Media – (8 February 1982)
  6. Moving Pictures – (15 February 1982)
  7. Let's Pretend – (22 February 1982)
  8. The Thinking Machine – (1 March 1982)
  9. In Control – (8 March 1982)
  10. Things to Come – (15 March 1982)

Theme music and opening titles

[edit]

The theme music to the programme was Kraftwerk's Computer World, taken from their 1981 album of the same name. The opening titles was an animation of an owl – the mascot (and logo) of the BBC Microcomputer system – flying into a domestic living room. The "owl" theme would be used on the two successor shows. The ending was Computer World 2, taken from the same album.

Book

[edit]

An accompanying book, The Computer Book, was commissioned by the BBC to tie in with the series,[4] giving an introduction to microcomputers and general computing.

Key Information

Its content covers the basics of the history of computing, programming languages, debugging, logic programming, semiconductor memory, printing, ADCs/DACs, flowcharts, as well as some technologies only found in Britain (such as Prestel, Ceefax, ORACLE).[5][6] The possibilities of networks, robotics, electronic offices and publishing were also considered, with particular reference to the BBC Micro.[6]

Reception

[edit]

The book sold 80,000 copies in the UK, reaching the top of the UK non-fiction chart.[7]

Reviewing the United States edition (The Beginner's Guide to Computers, Penguin/Addison Wesley, 1982),[8] The New York Times described the book's square shape as "clumsy", although this did not stop it from being a "quite decent introduction" which was "easy to read". Those interested in actually using personal computers to "do something" were advised to look elsewhere.[5] The World Yearbook of Education 1982/83: Computers and Education described it as "lucidly written and well laid out with profuse illustrations", noting the use of "appealing cartoons".[6]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

The Computer Programme

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
The Computer Programme is a British educational television series produced by the , originally broadcast on from 11 January to 15 March 1982, consisting of ten 25-minute episodes that introduced viewers to the fundamentals of and its emerging role in society. As part of the 's broader Computer Literacy Project, the series aimed to demystify for a general audience by exploring key principles, hardware, software, and practical applications through hands-on demonstrations and relatable analogies. The programme featured a distinctive format with journalist Chris Serle as the inquisitive, novice presenter who posed everyday questions about computers, paired with computing expert providing technical explanations, and occasional contributions from Gill Nevill on social and ethical implications. Produced by Paul Kriwaczek with directors Frank Ash and Matt Boney, it covered topics ranging from basic operations in the debut episode "It's Happening Now" to future visions in the finale "," including early showcases of the BBC Microcomputer despite production timelines that initially excluded it. This approach made complex concepts accessible, contributing to the UK's push for computer education in the early 1980s amid the personal computing boom. The series played a pivotal role in the BBC Computer Literacy Project by fostering public understanding of the "computer revolution," influencing educational initiatives and popularizing home computing through its engaging, narrative-driven style that blended studio segments with real-world examples. Episodes addressed diverse subjects such as , , and word processing, reflecting the era's technological optimism while highlighting societal impacts. Its legacy endures in , where select episodes remain available for viewing, underscoring its historical significance in media-driven technology education.

Background and Development

Concept and Purpose

The Computer Programme was the inaugural television series of the Computer Literacy Project, a educational initiative launched in to introduce the British public to during the early stages of widespread adoption. Conceived as part of a broader effort to demystify , the series served as a gateway for non-experts, emphasizing hands-on understanding and practical applications to foster public confidence in an era of rapid . The project's origins traced back to , following discussions prompted by the 1978 BBC documentary Now the Chips are Down, which highlighted the societal impacts of and spurred planning for what was initially titled Hands on Micros. By , detailed production planning had begun, aligning with the 's national push for in homes and schools amid concerns over technological unpreparedness and job displacement fears. This context was influenced by government policies, including the 1979 Education Programme (MEP), which aimed to integrate computing into curricula and was supported by the Department of Education and Science and the Department of Industry. The series' core purpose was to demonstrate the accessible uses of home computers, particularly through the BBC Micro, a machine developed in partnership with Acorn Computers to serve as a reliable demonstration tool with user-friendly features like BBC BASIC programming language. Filming occurred in the summer of 1981, with studio recordings from November 1981 to February 1982, culminating in the first broadcast on 11 January 1982 on BBC Two, reaching an estimated 7 million viewers across its initial run and repeats. By focusing on relatable, real-world examples rather than technical jargon, the programme sought to counter public anxieties about computers as mysterious or threatening, promoting them instead as empowering tools for everyday problem-solving.

Production Team and Process

The production of The Computer Programme was overseen by producer Paul Kriwaczek, who managed the development of the series in collaboration with Acorn Computers to integrate the BBC Microcomputer as the central hardware for demonstrations. Kriwaczek, drawing from a year of personal research including programming on a Nascom 2, coordinated a team that included series producer David Allen and technical advisors such as Richard Russell for BASIC programming expertise and Acorn engineers like Steve Furber and Sophie Wilson. Scriptwriters and advisors ensured content accuracy for beginners, focusing on educational clarity without assuming prior knowledge. Principal photography occurred in late 1981 using prototype Microcomputers, prior to the machine's full commercialization in December 1981. These early prototypes presented technical challenges, including overheating of the video processor under intense studio lighting, which was addressed by on-set cooling measures such as spraying with a during extended shoots. Filming utilized for live demonstrations to maintain authenticity, with on-location segments captured separately to illustrate real-world applications. The production blended controlled studio environments with practical examples, incorporating set elements like potted plants for visual appeal. As part of the broader Computer Literacy Project, funding came from the alongside support from the Manpower Services Commission and Department of Trade and Industry, enabling resource allocation for script development, technical consultations, and hardware integration without specified per-episode costs. This government-backed initiative emphasized accessible , involving engineering teams from and to resolve logistical hurdles like hardware synchronization with broadcast equipment.

Content and Presentation

Presenters

The main studio presenters of The Computer Programme were , affectionately known as "Mac," who served as the expert technician delivering technical explanations, and Chris Serle, who portrayed the naive everyman posing questions on behalf of the audience to demystify concepts. This pairing created an engaging dynamic where McNaught-Davis's authoritative insights were tempered by Serle's relatable curiosity, making complex topics accessible to novice viewers. Ian brought extensive experience as a professional, having begun his career working with early valve-based machines and later becoming managing director of Comshare, a company specializing in computer services for industry. His background as a senior executive in software positioned him as a pioneer in the field, with prior exposure that aided his clear, unpretentious delivery of technical details. Chris Serle, a seasoned broadcaster, had established himself through radio production and presenting roles, including work on 1's Late Night Extra and 4's Petticoat Line since joining the in 1969, before gaining prominence on with That's Life!. His veteran status in radio contributed to his affable style, ideal for representing the viewer's learning curve. Supporting the duo was Gill Nevill, who handled on-location reporting to showcase real-world applications of computing, drawing on her background as an experienced science skilled in communicating technical subjects through filmed segments. The emphasized contrast for educational impact: McNaught-Davis's expertise complemented Serle's everyday perspective to mirror the audience's journey from ignorance to understanding, while Nevill's journalistic prowess added practical, on-site context to the studio discussions. This deliberate selection enhanced the series' goal of broad accessibility, as evidenced by the success of a pilot featuring Serle.

Format and Episode Structure

The Computer Programme consisted of ten episodes, each lasting approximately 25 minutes, structured to blend studio-based demonstrations with on-location reports for a balanced pacing that kept content accessible and engaging for beginners. This format allowed for a steady flow of information, avoiding dense lectures by interspersing practical examples with brief explanations. The narrative style was dialogue-driven, featuring Chris Serle as the inquisitive novice posing everyday questions to , the technical expert, who responded with live demonstrations of hands-on coding and software applications using the computer. This conversational approach mirrored a teacher-student dynamic, making complex ideas relatable through real-time interaction and problem-solving on screen. The presenters' , with Serle representing the viewer's perspective, facilitated a natural progression of inquiry and revelation. Visual elements emphasized clarity and simplicity, incorporating graphics and animations produced via the to depict abstract concepts like commands, alongside tangible props such as cassette tapes and peripherals to ground demonstrations in physical reality. These aids were carefully scaled to avoid overwhelming newcomers, using colorful on-screen visuals and smooth transitions to highlight key steps without technical overload. Montages of real-world footage from on-location segments further illustrated applications, enhancing comprehension through relatable imagery. The series followed an educational progression that built cumulatively from foundational topics, such as an introduction to and basic operations in early episodes, to more advanced explorations of emerging applications and future implications in later ones. Recaps at the start of subsequent episodes reinforced prior concepts, promoting retention and allowing viewers to follow the arc without prerequisite knowledge. This structured buildup ensured a logical learning path aligned with the Computer Literacy Project's goals.

Episodes

List of Episodes

The Computer Programme consisted of ten episodes broadcast weekly on from 11 January to 15 March 1982, each approximately 25 minutes in length and focusing on introductory aspects of through demonstrations and real-world applications. Episode 1: It's Happening Now (11 January 1982)
This introductory episode explores the capabilities of computers, their everyday users across various professions, and the broader implications of for society, featuring examples like stock management in shops and early online services such as . Episode 2: Just One Thing After Another (18 January 1982)
The programme demonstrates how computers execute complex tasks by breaking them down into simple, sequential steps, illustrating basic programming concepts through practical setups on home computers like the BBC Micro. Episode 3: Talking to a Machine (25 January 1982)
Focusing on human-computer interaction, this episode examines challenges in communicating with machines and showcases early interfaces that mimic natural language, including programming examples on various home systems. Episode 4: It's on the Computer (1 1982)
The episode covers and retrieval techniques, highlighting how computers manage and access efficiently, with demonstrations of filing systems and database basics. Episode 5: The New Media (8 1982)
This instalment discusses emerging communication technologies enabled by computers, such as teletext services like and , and their potential to revolutionize dissemination. Episode 6: Moving Pictures (15 February 1982)
Exploring aspects, the programme delves into computer-generated sound and visuals, including animations and early video games, with hands-on examples using the BBC Micro's graphics capabilities. Episode 7: Let's Pretend (22 February 1982)
The focus is on and modelling, showing how computers replicate real-world systems like economic models or patterns to predict outcomes and test scenarios. Episode 8: The Thinking Machine (1 March 1982)
This episode investigates concepts, discussing the boundaries of machine intelligence and future possibilities through examples of expert systems and . Episode 9: In Control (8 March 1982)
Highlighting embedded systems, the programme examines microprocessors in household appliances, emphasizing their role in enhancing reliability, automation, and user control in everyday devices. Episode 10: Things to Come (15 March 1982)
Concluding the series, this episode speculates on the societal and economic transformations driven by , including impacts on work, , and .

Key Demonstrations and Themes

The series prominently featured the BBC Microcomputer, a purpose-built machine designed to demonstrate practical in homes and schools. At its core was a 6502A processor running at 2 MHz, providing sufficient speed for real-time applications and educational tasks. The Model B variant, which was the focus of most demonstrations, included 32 KB of RAM for program execution and data storage, alongside 32 KB of ROM containing the operating system and a built-in interpreter. This interpreter allowed immediate access to programming without additional setup, enabling viewers to experiment directly upon powering on the machine. Peripherals showcased included a cassette interface for low-cost data storage at 300/1200 baud, a parallel printer port compatible with standards for outputting text and , and an optional floppy disk controller supporting 5.25-inch drives for faster file handling. RGB video output supported high-resolution such as 640×256 pixels in two colors (Mode 1) or 320×256 pixels in four colors (Mode 2), suitable for illustrating and user interfaces. Software demonstrations emphasized hands-on programming with , highlighting its structured syntax and user-friendly commands to build simple yet functional applications. Viewers were shown entering commands like PRINT for output, INPUT for user interaction, and IF-THEN statements for basic logic, often in live coding sessions that created utilities such as calculators or text manipulators. Programs for games, like rudimentary adventures or drawing tools, illustrated loops and variables, underscoring how small code segments could combine into complex behaviors. These examples stressed accessibility, with error-handling features like ON ERROR to encourage experimentation without frustration. Word processing was demonstrated through software like VIEW, where text editing, formatting, and saving to disk were shown as transformative for document handling, reducing manual labor in offices and homes. Broader themes explored computing's potential beyond basics, including , networking, and societal integration. In demonstrations of AI, the series illustrated and through programs simulating expert systems, such as diagnostic tools that mimicked human reasoning while revealing machines' limitations in true understanding. Networking was highlighted via the Econet system, an optional peripheral enabling multiple s to share files and printers over , with live examples of between machines to foreshadow collaborative computing. Societal impacts were conveyed through scenarios like automated home controls and business , emphasizing efficiency gains but also ethical considerations like job displacement. These segments used the Micro to model real-world applications, promoting awareness of technology's role in daily life. Educational tools received dedicated focus, particularly the language, which was integrated to teach problem-solving and graphics via turtle-based commands. Demonstrations involved directing an on-screen "turtle" with instructions like FORWARD and TURN to draw shapes, fostering logical thinking aligned with school curricula. This approach, inspired by Seymour Papert's methods, encouraged iterative experimentation, such as creating polygons or animations, to build computational concepts without overwhelming syntax. LOGO's emphasis on and procedures mirrored broader programming principles while tying directly to classroom use of the .

Accompanying Materials

Theme Music and Opening Titles

The theme music for The Computer Programme was "" by the group Kraftwerk, from their eighth studio Computer World released in May 1981. This track's pulsating rhythms and lyrics centered on computers, , and digital life were selected for their alignment with the early surge in electronic music and to convey excitement about personal computing's potential. The licensed the song to underscore the series' focus on technological innovation as part of its Computer Literacy Project. The opening titles sequence lasted approximately 30 seconds and utilized traditional cel techniques, including paint and trace on acetate sheets, created by Ian Eames Animation and filmed via stop-frame on a with panned backgrounds for dynamic movement. It opened with the series' symbolic wise soaring over twilight rooftops and urban scenes, entering a domestic setting through a window, and perching atop the programme title logo embedded within a television screen. The animation incorporated on-screen credits for presenters and Chris Serle, producer Paul Kriwaczek, and the production team, all set against the theme music to establish a tone of accessible .

The Computer Book

The Computer Book: An Introduction to Computers and Computing was published by in 1982 as the official tie-in to the series The Computer Programme, with authorship credited to Robin Bradbeer, Peter de Bono, and Peter Laurie. The edition spanned 208 pages and featured numerous illustrations to support its educational aims, including diagrams of and programming examples. The book's structure paralleled the series' episodes, providing expanded explanations of key concepts introduced on screen, such as the fundamentals of microcomputers, , and applications in everyday life. Dedicated sections offered practical guidance on setting up the computer, including connections to peripherals like televisions and printers, alongside step-by-step tutorials on programming syntax and commands. Further chapters presented hands-on project ideas, such as creating simple text-based games or utility programs, to encourage readers to experiment independently. In the , the book achieved significant commercial success, with over 80,000 copies sold by mid-1983, reflecting the broader public interest sparked by the Project. A edition, retitled The Beginner's Guide to Computers and published by in 1982 at $9.95, adapted the content for American audiences by standardizing spellings but retained British-specific references to services like and . This version drew criticism for its awkward square format, which hindered readability despite the otherwise accessible prose. As a supplementary resource, The Computer Book extended the series' educational reach by providing expanded explanations of concepts introduced in the episodes, complete code listings for on-screen demonstrations, and a comprehensive glossary of computing terms to facilitate self-paced learning at home after broadcasts. These elements allowed viewers without access to repeated airings to replicate programs and deepen their understanding of principles.

Broadcast and Distribution

Original Broadcast

The Computer Programme premiered on on 11 January 1982, with episodes airing weekly on Monday afternoons at 3:05 PM, concluding with the tenth and final episode on 15 March 1982. To expand its reach beyond school audiences, the series was simulcast or repeated on starting a few weeks later in Sunday morning slots at around 10:10 AM and late-night Monday transmissions beginning shortly after the initial run. These multiple strands allowed the programme to target both educational institutions during daytime hours and the general public in more accessible evening and weekend time slots. The series was repeated several times in the following years, including in 1983, with additional airings on and to support ongoing computer initiatives in schools and for viewers. Overall, the broadcasts achieved a total audience reach of approximately seven million viewers across the initial transmissions and repeats, representing about 16% of the population. Late-night episodes on drew peak viewership of up to 1.3 million per showing, while Sunday mornings and Monday afternoons averaged 200,000 to 250,000 viewers each; this success was significantly boosted by the series' integration with the launch and sales campaign, which encouraged home computing adoption. Promotion for the series formed part of the broader Computer Literacy Project launch in January 1982, featuring extensive press coverage, public demonstrations at exhibitions, and announcements emphasizing the of computing technology for everyday users. The programmes were transmitted in the standard PAL television format used across the at the time.

International Adaptations

The series was distributed internationally through , reaching various markets as part of educational initiatives to promote . In the United States, it aired on stations in 1983, integrated into public television's educational programming lineup. A notable adaptation occurred in , , where TV3 broadcast Connecta el micro, pica l'start ("Connect the micro, push start") starting on May 27, 1985, as a co-production that repurposed the first 30 minutes of each original episode. This version was dubbed into Catalan and tailored for local audiences, airing twice that year to introduce microcomputing concepts. Unlike the original, demonstrations featured the 32/64 computer instead of the , reflecting regional hardware availability through Eurohard, the Spanish distributor for Dragon systems. The programme saw limited exports to other regions, including and , where it aired on national networks to support similar educational efforts. In , ABC Television broadcast the series in 1983, promoting the as a core element of the computer and featuring localized introductions by presenter Iain Finlay. New Zealand's national television began screening episodes in March 1983, generating interest in home computing and contributing to the adoption of around 600 units in the country by that time. These airings, distributed via , helped foster early computing in schools and homes, adapting the original format to align with local broadcasting schedules. International versions faced challenges related to hardware availability and cultural localization. In regions without widespread access to the BBC Micro, such as , producers substituted compatible systems like the Dragon 32/64 for demonstrations, ensuring relevance while maintaining the educational focus on and basic principles. These adaptations preserved the series' structure but required adjustments to reflect available technology, influencing how was introduced in non-UK markets.

Reception and Legacy

Critical Reception

Upon its 1982 broadcast, The Computer Programme received positive contemporary press coverage for its accessible approach to demystifying . The Times described the series as an "excellent introduction to ," highlighting its machine-agnostic focus on broad concepts suitable for general audiences. A review in The Times Educational Supplement commended the presenters' dynamic interplay, with providing expert clarity on topics like binary storage and algorithms, while Serle's role as the novice added relatable questioning and apt analogies to enhance understanding. However, the same review noted drawbacks in the format, including a lack of reinforcement for key ideas and an excessive emphasis on microcomputers and , which could limit its depth for more advanced viewers. Personal Computer World echoed this positivity, praising the series as "thoughtful and high-quality" with "coherent know-how" that made it enjoyable, though it critiqued the fuzzy balance between educational and general-interest aims, as well as the tendency to gloss over practical challenges without sufficient toward technology's benefits. The accompanying book, The Computer Book, garnered mixed but largely favorable feedback for its accessibility. Personal Computer World lauded its layout, noting the visual appeal of numerous pictures and diagrams that supported explanations effectively, alongside strong chapters on practical applications. Overall, the publication was seen as promoting computing through straightforward content, though reviewers pointed to shortcomings such as its disjointed structure as a "mish-mash" of independent writings, inaccuracies in historical sections (e.g., claims about early machines like the ), and an overly theoretical approach to problem-solving that did not fully extend the series' demonstrations. Retrospective critiques have similarly highlighted the series' role in making technology approachable.

Cultural Impact

The Computer Programme, as the flagship series of the BBC's Computer Literacy Project (CLP), played a pivotal role in elevating across the , significantly contributing to the widespread adoption of the computer. The series, which aired in 1982, directly boosted sales of the , with over 1.5 million units sold worldwide by the end of production, far exceeding ' initial projection of 12,000 units. This surge was driven by the programme's demonstrations of practical applications, which encouraged both home and purchases, and aligned with government initiatives to equip with computers. By 1984, the CLP's influence had become integral to the integration of into the UK's curricula, with over 85% of primary schools and 65% of secondary schools adopting through the Computers for Schools scheme. The series paved the way for subsequent educational broadcasts within the CLP's expanded phases, broadening its reach and depth. In 1983, Making the Most of the Micro followed, focusing on advanced programming and applications to build on the foundational skills introduced earlier. This led into Micro Live (1984–1987), a live magazine-format show that covered emerging technologies and won the Times Technology Programme of the Year award in 1985 and 1986, further embedding computing literacy into public discourse. These follow-ups extended the original series' mission, transforming the CLP into a decade-long effort that included over 100 television and radio programmes. On a societal level, The Computer Programme helped normalize home in Britain during the early microelectronics revolution, fostering a cultural shift toward ownership and use. By delivering accessible tutorials via television, it demystified computers for non-experts, inspiring a generation of programmers and contributing to the growth of the digital sector, including and gaming industries. Retrospective analyses highlight this enduring influence, crediting the series with building early public confidence in . In contemporary contexts, the programme maintains relevance through its availability on the BBC Rewind platform, where full episodes have been accessible since at least , allowing new audiences to explore its content. It is frequently cited in historical accounts of technology education for its proactive approach to , which anticipated and helped mitigate early aspects of the by promoting equitable access to computing skills via broadcast media.

References

  1. https://clp.bbcrewind.co.uk/de37d97905d37f58038f2d7c8341ff4b
  2. https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p03062mq
  3. https://clp.bbcrewind.co.uk/history
  4. http://www.naec.org.uk/organisations/bbc-computer-literacy-project/towards-computer-literacy-the-bbc-computer-literacy-project-1979-1983
  5. https://ia600205.us.archive.org/29/items/YourComputer8401/YourComputer/YourComputer8203.pdf
  6. https://dokumen.pub/electronic-dreams-how-1980s-britain-learned-to-love-the-computer-9781472936653-9781472918338.html
  7. https://archivetvmusings.blog/2014/08/08/a-brave-new-world-the-computer-programme-bbc-1982/
  8. https://clp.bbcrewind.co.uk/cd0b390000ec7f484b89a3ff545b99d4
  9. https://www.bbc.com/news/technology-26278902
  10. https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2024/sep/30/chris-serle-obituary
  11. https://wearecult.rocks/we-are-cult-bristol-meet-chris-serle
  12. https://twobithistory.org/2019/03/31/bbc-micro.html
  13. https://genome.ch.bbc.co.uk/eb37c8554e804e82834707362d732c5a
  14. https://www.worldradiohistory.com/UK/Personal-Computer-World/80s/PCW-1982-04-S-OCR.pdf
  15. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YbR7X5NPicY
  16. https://genome.ch.bbc.co.uk/68f5996d29ec4d788303a5f4be1d3ee5
  17. https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p03064m1
  18. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DFHpRCZh0pY
  19. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GKKkOrroc3w
  20. http://chrisacorns.computinghistory.org.uk/docs/BBC/HardwareSpecification.txt
  21. https://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/technology/2008/03/remembering_the_bbc_micro_1.html
  22. https://www.ravensbourne.ac.uk/bbc-motion-graphics-archive/computer-programme-1982
  23. https://www.thatericalper.com/2025/08/07/5-surprising-facts-about-kraftwerks-computer-world/
  24. https://archive.org/details/computerbookintr0000brad
  25. https://www.abebooks.com/9780563164845/Computer-Book-Introduction-Computers-Computing-0563164840/plp
  26. https://www.nytimes.com/1982/11/16/science/personal-computers-primers-in-old-fashioned-printers.html
  27. https://archive.org/details/thecomputerbook
  28. http://www.curiousbritishtelly.co.uk/2014/12/the-computer-programme.html
  29. https://www.bbc.co.uk/historyofthebbc/100-voices/inventingthefuture/bbc-and-digital-revolution/
  30. https://elpais.com/tecnologia/2019/12/02/actualidad/1575302981_189309.html
  31. https://riunet.upv.es/server/api/core/bitstreams/3aa1367e-db82-44ae-a65c-ed28ef3b4749/content
  32. https://archive.org/download/apc_1983_06/apc_1983_06.pdf
  33. http://retro8bitcomputers.co.uk/Content/downloads/magazines/acornuser/acornuser8304.pdf
  34. https://archive.org/stream/NewsUK1982UKEnglish/Feb%2015%201982%2C%20The%20Times%2C%20%2361158%2C%20UK%20%28en%29_djvu.txt
  35. https://archive.org/stream/TESGlobal1982UKEnglish/Jan%2029%201982%2C%20The%20Times%20Educational%20Supplement%2C%20%233422%2C%20UK%20%28en%29_djvu.txt
  36. https://www.bbc.com/news/technology-15969065
  37. https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2012/mar/25/bbc-micro-30-years-acorn-sinclair
  38. https://www.nesta.org.uk/report/the-legacy-of-bbc-micro/
Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.