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Commodore International

American company
Also known as: Commodore Business Machines

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Commodore International was an American company that played a significant role in the early personal computer market. In 1976, Commodore Business Machines, already an established electronics firm, acquired MOS Technology. This move allowed Commodore to enter the microcomputer industry with its own products, leveraging its existing distribution channels.1

In 1977, Commodore introduced the Personal Electronic Transactor (PET), one of the first preassembled, mass-produced personal computers. This machine, along with the Apple II and the Tandy TRS-80, marked the beginning of the personal computer revolution. The PET, using an eight-bit microprocessor, was more affordable than mainframe computers, making personal computing accessible to individuals and small businesses.2

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