BASIC Converter Chart ´84

This project aims to revive and enhance the legendary "Personal Computer World" (PCW) magazine's wallchart, known as the "BASIC Converter Chart," originally released in September 1984.

PCW description of the chart: Those rotten manufacturers still insist on making machines that won't talk to each other in the same language. Some enlightened people are having a go with MSX, but in the meantime and in response to overwhelming demand, here's the 1984 Converter Chart. It isn't possible, of course, to cover every micro nor every command supported by each of the machines included. What this chart aims to do is to provide an at-a-glance syntax comparison using Microsoft Basic as a reference point. The chart won't convert programs for you but it will save you the trouble of getting hold of piles of manuals - and even when you've got them it's often the beginning, not the end of your worries.

Objective: My goal is to provide an updated and improved version of the classic PCW BASIC Converter Chart, offering a nostalgic glimpse into the computing landscape of the past while catering to modern audiences. I have painstakingly revised all the content, correcting typos, standardizing the content, and correcting errors.

Accessibility: The project ensures easy accessibility for enthusiasts, educators, and curious minds keen on exploring the foundations of personal computing.

Educational Value: The updated BASIC Converter Chart serves as an educational resource, offering insights into the programming landscape of the 1980s and acting as a bridge between past and present coding practices.

Supported Machines BASIC dialects:

• AMSTRAD CPC 464
• APPLESOFT
• ATARI
• BBC BASIC
• COLOR GENIE
• COMMODORE 64 & VIC 20
• ENTERPRISE IS-BASIC
• IBM PC-BASIC A
• MEMOTECH MTX 512
• MSX BASIC
• DRAGON 32
• MZ-80K (Tape Basic SP-5025)
• ORIC-1/ATMOS
• SINCLAIR QL
• TRS-80 II/GENIE
• ZX81
• ZX SPECTRUM

File details:

1. BASIC Converter Chart 84.png
   1. A high-resolution png file (12,000 x 16,060 @ 300 dpi).
   2. If you want to print this wall chart, I recommend using a minimum of 4 letter size sheets of paper (2x2) or larger to ensure readability.
2. PCW-1984-09-S-OCR-Chart.pdf
   1. The original “Personal Computer World” magazine, September 1984 edition.
   2. The wall chart can be viewed on the two last pages of the document.
3. BASIC Converter Chart 84.xlsx
   1. This is a Microsoft Excel file containing the data used to create this project's updated wall chart.