The following letter appeared in the Michigan Apple-Gram as well as the International Apple Core produced Apple Orchard volume 1 number 1. While the idea behind it was unbelievable at the time, history had a way of making it work. We hope that you enjoy this little bit of history as much as we did.
The Apple Rumor Mill
Courtesy of Paul Knevels
From The Michigan Apple-GramIt has been rumored that Apple Computer, Inc. is working on an Apple III computer to be released shortly. At present, the only iadvance information available is that a new microprocessor will be incorporated into the unit – the 6503.
Our research staff has been able to uncover a list of new op-codes that distinguish the 6503 as a breakthrough in computer technology
The List is presented here for your information (and enjoyment).
AGB Add garbage
Michigan Apple-Gram, IAC Apple Orchard V1N1
BBL Branch on burned out light BAH Branch and hang
BLI Branch and loop infinite BPB Branch on program bug BPO Branch if power off
CPB Create program bug
CRN Convert to Roman numerals DAO Divide and overflow
ERS Erase read-only storage HCF Halt and catch fire
IAD Illogical and
IOR Illogical or
MDB Move and drop bits
MWK Multiply work
PAS Print and smear
RBT Read and break tape
RPM Read programmer’s mind RRT Record and rip tape
RSD Read and scramble data RWD Rewind disk
SRZ Subtract and set to zero SSD Seek and scratch disk
TPR Tear paper
WED Write and erase data
WID Write invalid data
XIO Execute invalid op-code XOR Execute operator
XPR Execute programmer
P.S. There is no word from Apple as to when we might expect these improvements. Perhaps in the next CONTACT.
P.K.
Historical Footnote: What little did Paul realize that he was right about the Apple III but only slightly wrong about the op-codes? In reality, there were times where the Apple III computer actually felt like we were using the above listed op-codes. With all of the problems the initial batch of machines faced, it is a wonder that any of them even sold. But today, an Apple III draws more in auctions due to this mere lack of numbers
