Mattel Aquarius Extended Microsoft Basic Language Cartridge - Model 4392
(Mattel Electronics - 1983)
The extended Microsoft Basic cartridge allows you build programs with functionality and features not possible with he limited built in implementation of basic that was part of the Aquarius system that dissapinted most developers.
Utilizing this cartridge along with a 16k or 32k memory cartridge in the mini expander, gave the ability to write basic programs with a more natural flow without the fear of hitting the 4k memory wall of the system.
Specifications for the Extended Microsoft Basic Cartridge
Basic specifications for the Mattel Extended Microsoft Basic cartridge are listed below.
Model:
4392
Release date:
1983
Original Price:
US $59.99
Dimensions:
2-1/4"W (57mm) x 3"D (76mm) x 1-5/8"H (41mm)
Power Supply:
Powered by Aquarius computer's cartridge port.
Box Contents:
(1) Extended Microsoft Basic Cartridge
(1) Extended Microsoft Basic Instruction Manual
User Comments
Below are the user comments about the Mattel - Aquarius - Extended Microsoft Basic Language topic. Feel free to join the conversation and share your comments or experiences with the Geek Vintage community.
(1) comments leave a comment
Extended Basic
AndyWard | Mar 21, 2011 9:40am
The Extended MS Basic cartridge was something I saved a long time for.
It built upon the original version of basic shipped with the Aquarius in such a way that the user was able to utilise their skills to develop the types of home brew software capable on the Sinclair Spectrum or Commodore 64, which in the UK, were it's main competition.
The ability to locate the cursor anywhere on the screen and build your own graphics rather than being limited to the ASCII chart characters was again a great advancement.
Using Extended Basic, the Aquarius was capable of simple 3D gaming written in basic. I still have fond memories of a 3D Flight simulator I once wrote. I guess more so because it was the first time my dad became interested in my Aquarius and hogged it for hours.
It's a great shame the Aquarius wasn't shipped with Extended Basic and more ram as standard, in my honest opinion, it's shelf life would have been much longer.
It built upon the original version of basic shipped with the Aquarius in such a way that the user was able to utilise their skills to develop the types of home brew software capable on the Sinclair Spectrum or Commodore 64, which in the UK, were it's main competition.
The ability to locate the cursor anywhere on the screen and build your own graphics rather than being limited to the ASCII chart characters was again a great advancement.
Using Extended Basic, the Aquarius was capable of simple 3D gaming written in basic. I still have fond memories of a 3D Flight simulator I once wrote. I guess more so because it was the first time my dad became interested in my Aquarius and hogged it for hours.
It's a great shame the Aquarius wasn't shipped with Extended Basic and more ram as standard, in my honest opinion, it's shelf life would have been much longer.
