Commodore VIC-20 User Manual page 4

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PREFACE c
You are about to meet a friendly computer! Friendly in price,
friendly in size, friendly to use and learn on and experience.
Most important — you don't have to be a computer r
programmer, or even a typist, to use it!
If you're a first time computerist, this manual will provide an
excellent introduction to computing. Unlike most instruction (
manuals, you don't have to read through this whole book to get
to the "good stuff." After reading Chapter 1 (GETTING
STARTED), you can go directly to a chapter that interests you
and start reading. If you're interested in animation turn to
Chapter 4. If you like music, try Chapter 5. Q
The first page of each chapter has a sample program to start (
you off. Just type the program exactly as shown ("Try Typing
This Program") and see what happens. The rest of the chapter C
explains what you did, and shows you how to do more. Chapter
7 summarizes some important programming concepts, and
explains the techniques used in the sample programs. (
If you're an experienced programmer, you can use the VIC like
any microcomputer. Familiarity with Commodore computers
will help, since the BASIC and graphics are nearly identical to
those used in the PET/CBM. Advanced reference material and
programming information are included in the Appendix. For
more sophisticated programming, see the VIC PROGRAMMERS r
REFERENCE GUIDE, available from your Commodore dealer.
If you're a noncomputerist and have no interest in
programming, per se, you should check out the VIC's growing £
library of plug-in cartridges and program tapes. VIC cartridges
plug directly into the back of the console and work
automatically. Programs are also provided on cassette tapes for r
use with the Commodore Cassette Tape Recorder.
Cartridges and tapes include exciting "arcade-type" games
such as "VIC INVADERS" as well as educational programs to |
help you develop special skills, and home utility programs to
help you solve problems and perform calculations.
Peripherals and accessories for the VIC include the VIC tape £
cassette recorder, single disk drive, telephone modem and
printer, to name a tew. (See Appendix A) C
Computers are becoming an increasingly important part of our
everyday lives — in our homes, at school and in business.
Those who become familiar with computers now will have an
important advantage in the coming months and years. The VIC r
not only introduces you to the world of computing, but also
gives you the features and flexibility you need to expand that
world.
Enjoy your new world!
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