memory to be initialized with AA (hex) in all bytes, starting with address 532. This, of course, destroys any previous BASIC programs, data in the AIM 65 Editor Text Buffer, or machine level routines that may have been stored in this portion of memory.

Be sure to save any desired data or programs that may exist in this area before entering BASIC with the 5 key.

Note that text in the Text Buffer or machine level routine may co-exist in memory with BASIC by locating such text or routines in upper memory and entering the highest BASIC address with a value lower than the starting address of such text or routines.

EXITING BASIC

To escape from BASIC and return to the AIM 65 Monitor, type ESC any time the BASIC command

cursor is displayed. You can also escape BASIC while a program is running, by pressing the F1 key (see Subject 301).

Pressing RESET will also cause the AIM 65 Monitor to be entered as well as performing a hardware reset of AIM 65.

REENTERING BASIC

BASIC may be reentered by typing 6 whenever the AIM 65 Monitor prompt is displayed. In this case, however, any existing BASIC program is retained in memory. AIM 65 will respond to a Key 6 entry with:

<6>

^6>

BASIC CURSOR

The BASIC cursor (^), displayed in column 1 whenever BASIC is in the command entry mode,

indicates that a BASIC command can be entered. The last displayed data resulting from the previous command is retained except for column 1 to provide information continuity with the previous command or displayed output data. This is especially helpful when the printer control is turned off to preserve printer paper.

When the first character of the next command is typed, the display will blank except for the newly typed character. The cursor then advances across the display in accordance with typed characters to indicate the character input position.

The displayed cursor does not appear on the printer output, thus any data printed in column 1 will be retained.

CAUTION

The minus sign associated with any negative values that are displayed starting in column 1 will be replaced with the cursor in the BASIC command entry mode. In the case of direct commands, the minus sign will only flash before the cursor is displayed if the printer control is on or may not appear at all if the printer control is off. In order to retain the minus sign, a leading blank should

be displayed before the value is displayed (see Subject 204).

PRINTER CONTROL

While in the BASIC command entry mode, the printer may be turned on or off by typing PRINT while CNTL is pressed (CNTL PRINT). The on/off state of the printer is displayed after typing

PRINT.

If the printer is turned off, statements in the BASIC command entry mode and data output from

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Apple II manual Exiting Basic, Reentering Basic, Basic Cursor, Printer Control
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II specifications

The Apple II, launched in April 1977, was one of the first highly successful mass-produced microcomputer products. It marked a significant leap in personal computing, setting standards for future developments in the industry. Created by Steve Wozniak and Steve Jobs, the Apple II differentiated itself with its user-friendly design, appealing aesthetics, and robust capabilities.

One of the standout features of the Apple II was its open architecture, which allowed users to expand and enhance the computer's functionality. This design enabled hundreds of third-party hardware and software developers to contribute to its ecosystem, resulting in an array of peripherals, including printers, modems, and storage devices. The Apple II utilized a MOS Technology 6502 microprocessor running at a clock speed of 1 MHz. Initially equipped with 4 KB of RAM, the machine could be expanded to 48 KB, accommodating more complex applications and programs.

The Apple II was also notable for its colorful graphics. It was one of the first computers to support color display, offering a 6-color palette with a resolution of 280x192 pixels in 16 colors when using its Color Graphics Card. This feature significantly enhanced the visual appeal of games and educational software developed for the platform, making computing more accessible and entertaining for various audiences.

Apple's commitment to user experience was evident in the design of the machine. It featured an integrated keyboard and a plastic case, which was both durable and visually appealing. The self-contained design included drive bays for floppy disk drives, allowing for quicker data access than traditional tape drives. It also supported audio output, enabling sound effects and music, a novelty at the time.

The introduction of the Apple DOS operating system further underscored the machine's capabilities. DOS streamlined file management and made it easier for users to navigate and manage their data. The combination of hardware and software positioned the Apple II as an educational tool and a gaming platform, fostering a vibrant software ecosystem.

The Apple II family continued to evolve, with variations like the Apple II+, IIe, and IIgs being introduced over the years. These iterations brought enhancements in memory, processing power, and graphics capabilities. The legacy of the Apple II endures, not only as a foundational product in personal computing but also as a symbol of innovation that paved the way for future advancements in technology. Its impact is still felt today, as it inspired countless developers and shaped the trajectory of the computer industry.
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