The TI99/4a is a classic home computer from the 80s, made by Texas Instruments. It was a cool and unique computer at the time because it was designed to be user-friendly. It had a built-in speech synthesizer, just one totally awesome aspect, as you’ll see in this TI99/4a collector guide.
Despite its unwieldy name, the TI99/4a was on everyone’s lips in the early computing world. The TI99/4a could use cartridges, tiny computer programs that you plug into the computer, as well as cassette tapes and floppy disks. There were a ton of cool games available for the TI99/4a, as well as educational software (was a big selling point).
Sega Master System console: Retro gaming goes 3D
TI99/4a collector guide: The rivals
At the time, the TI99/4a had some stiff competition, including the Commodore 64 and the Atari 8-bit family, but it still managed to hold its own and gain a loyal following. It kept you busy; there were a ton of cool accessories available for the TI99/4a. You’d get joysticks, printers, and even a speech synthesizer expansion card.
TI99/4a collector guide: The scene today
Nowadays, it can be a bit challenging to find certain pieces of hardware and software for the Texas Instruments TI99/4a. But it’s totally worth it, because it’s a blast! TI99/4a collectors suggest that you should check out online auction sites, and even flea markets, to track down the gear you’re after.
More: Mattel Intellivision: 1980s Console That Nearly Beat Atari
Collecting vintage computers like the TI99/4a is a ton of fun, and it’s a great way to connect with the technology of the past and appreciate how far we’ve come. You may just meet other collectors and retro tech enthusiasts who are just as passionate as you are. It’s an amazing community to be a part of!
So what are you waiting for? Use this Texas Instruments TI99/4a collector guide to start your own collecting retro computing journey with a real classic!
