computer system: Commodore Vic-20 Computer

Released in 1981, the Commodore VIC-20 was the second personal computer released by Commodore Business Machines. Though possessing only 5KB of RAM, the computer could play games of up to 16KB by storing the data on ROM cartridges. Designed as a "computer for the masses, not the classes," the VIC-20 initially sold at the low price of $299.95 and was known for being user-friendly. Instead of being sold only through dealers, the VIC-20 appeared in retail stores to compete directly with gaming consoles, and was the first computer to be sold in K-Mart. Commodore also focused on producing popular advertisements and hired Star Trek actor William Shatner to promote the system. In 1982, the VIC-20 became the first system to sell over one million units. Production ceased in 1985, with the Commodore 64 overtaking its predecessor.