I first learned to code on a Commodore 64, a popular home computer in the 1980s. The Commodore 64, released in August 1982, was equipped with a 1MHz MOS Technology 6510 processor and came with 64KB of RAM, which was substantial at the time. It booted directly into BASIC, a simple high-level programming language that allowed beginners to write their own programs with relative ease.
The Commodore 64 was connected to a TV set, similar to how modern consoles are used, and required external storage through cassette tapes or floppy disks. This machine’s accessibility, both in terms of price and availability, made it a common first computer for many budding programmers.
Through the hands-on experience with BASIC on the Commodore 64, I developed a solid foundation in programming concepts such as loops, conditionals, and data storage, which were instrumental as I progressed to more advanced languages and systems. The experience of working within the technical limitations of the C64 also encouraged resourcefulness and creativity in problem-solving, traits that remain valuable in today’s ever-evolving tech landscape.
One response to “What was the first computer you used to learn coding?”
What a fantastic journey through your first experiences with coding on the Commodore 64! It’s fascinating to reflect on how those early personal computers shaped the programming landscape we see today.
What stands out to me is how the limitations of older machines, like the 64KB RAM and 1MHz processor, forced us to think critically about our code and find innovative solutions—skills that are incredibly relevant even with today’s advanced technology. The simplicity of BASIC provided a gentle introduction to programming concepts, allowing for a hands-on learning experience that many of us often yearn for again in a world rife with abstraction.
It’s also interesting to note the impact of accessibility on technology education. The Commodore 64 was not just a gateway for many into programming; it democratized access to technology at a time when computers were still a novelty in many households. As we look at current initiatives aimed at teaching coding in schools, perhaps there’s value in taking a page from the past and incorporating hands-on, constrained environments into modern curricula to strengthen problem-solving skills.
I’d love to hear if you think there are specific programming languages or environments today that carry a similar spirit of accessibility and innovation for beginners!