Nicknamed the Beeb, the BBC Micro refers to six computer models (Model A, B, B+64, B+128, Master 128, and Master Compact) designed and built by the Acorn Computer Company as part of the BBC Computer Literacy Project, beginning in 1981. The BBC Micro became the primary computer system used in nearly 80% of schools across the United Kingdom. While expensive, the computer line did also enjoy success in the home computer market, though an attempt to expand that success to the United States ultimately failed.. Despite this, the BBC Micro saw a lifespan of over a decade with more than a million units sold, before being discontinued in 1994. It had a vast software library of educational as well as recreational games, and introduced and educated many British children in computers and programming.