The IMSAI 8080 is a microcomputer made by IMS Associates and released in 1975, first as a computer kit and later as a fully assembled unit. It was based on the MITS Altair 8800, another microcomputer from the early 1970s. An IMSAI 8080 is pictured above, alongside a Lobo Systems 8" Dual Disk Floppy Drive.
This item was recently donated by David Stoutemyer.
View it in our catalogue: 2024.26.31
History
IMS Associates (Information Management Sciences Associates) was a computer consulting company started by William Millard in 1972. Two years later, the company was approached by a client who wanted a computer that could be a workstation system for General Motors car dealerships. In order for IMS to stay within budget for this project, they developed the computer around the Intel 8080 microprocessor. This microprocessor was released in April of 1974 and is credited as starting the microcomputer industry. The MITS Altair 8800 also used the Intel 8080 CPU and the S-100 bus, and is considered by some to be the first commercially successful microcomputer, inspiring the creation of the IMSAI 8080. However, the IMSAI 8080 became more successful.
By October 1975 IMS was advertising the computer, and officially released it in December that same year. Originally, it was offered as a computer kit that the buyer had to assemble, but later offered fully assembled units. Between 17,000 and 20,000 units were produced until it was discontinued in 1978.
System Specifications
| Processor | Intel 8080A Microcomputer chip |
|---|---|
| Bus | S-100 |
| Speed | 2 MHz |
| Directly Accessible Memory | 65,536 words |
| Word Size | 1 byte (8 bits) |
| Memory Type | Semiconductor |
| Power | 28 amp unregulated power supply with onboard regulators |
| Dimensions | 19 1/2" x 17" x 7" |
| Weight | 40 pounds |
Related Artifacts
The following related artifacts were included in this donation, alongside the IMSAI 8080 and Lobo Systems 8" Dual Disk Floppy Drive.
Navigate to "Related Links" to view these items in our catalogue.
IMSAI 8080 Microcomputer System User Manual
Intel 8080 Microcomputer Systems User's Manual
Intel MCS-86 Assembly Language Reference Guide
Intel 8080 Assembly Language Reference Card
CP/M Operating System Manual
CP/M Operating System Command Summary
IMSAI 8080 Replica Kits
If you would like to build your own version of this computer, The High Nibble created an IMSAI 8080 replica kit in 2019. More information can be found on their website, including price, recommended tools, and a step-by-step assembly guide.
Unfortunately, as of July 2024 these kits are out of production due to parts availability. The creator is working on sourcing replacement parts, and in the meantime you can send an expression of interest via email: info@thehighnibble.com.
The High Nibble IMSAI 8080 Replica
About the Author
Amy studies Computational Mathematics at the University of Waterloo and is the Computer Museum’s Summer 2024 co-op student. In her free time, she enjoys painting, collaging, and other forms of visual art making.