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BBC Micro

A British microcomputer launched in December 1981 for the BBC's Computer Literacy Project that sold over 1.5 million units.

Acorn Computers built the BBC Micro for the BBC's Computer Literacy Project. It launched in December 1981 and appeared on BBC television programs such as The Computer Programme in 1982.

Production problems pushed many deliveries into 1982. It cost more than many rivals but sold over 1.5 million units. Most British schools bought at least one. It had BBC BASIC built in, and it supported Econet networking.

Why it matters

The BBC Micro taught a generation of British pupils the basics of computing.

Key facts

  • Launched December 1981.
  • Built by Acorn Computers for the BBC's Computer Literacy Project.
  • Over 1.5 million sold.
  • Most British schools bought at least one.
  • Included BBC BASIC and Econet networking.

Sources

  1. Wikipedia, "BBC Micro", en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BBC_Micro, accessed October 14, 2026.
  2. Wikipedia, "Acorn Computers", en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Acorn_Computers, background reading, accessed October 14, 2026.