Core Insights - The article discusses the revolutionary impact of the 6502 microprocessor, developed by MOS Technology, on the personal computer and gaming industries, highlighting its affordability and performance compared to competitors [5][6][42]. Group 1: Historical Context - The 6502 microprocessor was first delivered to customers in September 1975 and became a cornerstone for several iconic computers and gaming systems, including the Apple II and Commodore 64 [6][9]. - Chuck Peddle and Bill Mensch, key figures in the development of the 6502, left Motorola due to dissatisfaction with the pricing and production of the 6800 processor, leading to the creation of the 6502 at MOS Technology [7][37]. Group 2: Technical Innovations - The 6502 was notable for its simplified instruction set and a manufacturing process that achieved a yield ten times higher than competitors, significantly lowering costs [5][23]. - The chip contained 3,510 transistors and was produced using a 5-volt NMOS process, which allowed for a smaller chip size and higher performance [16][23]. Group 3: Market Impact - The introduction of the 6502 led to a drastic reduction in microprocessor prices, with the 6502 priced at $25 compared to competitors like Intel's 8080 and Motorola's 6800, which were priced around $200 [3][5]. - The success of the 6502 prompted Motorola to lower the prices of its 6800 microprocessor and led to legal disputes over patent rights, highlighting the competitive tension in the semiconductor industry [38][39]. Group 4: Legacy - The 6502's architecture and affordability made it the preferred choice for early home computers and gaming consoles, establishing a legacy that continues to influence the industry [41][42]. - The article concludes by emphasizing the significance of the 6502 as a landmark achievement in the history of microprocessors, marking its 50th anniversary [5][42].

公众号记得加星标⭐️，第一时间看推送不会错过。 当一个胖乎乎的极客将一个特定的芯片塞进一个特定的计算机电路板并启动它时，宇宙突然停 顿了一下。这个极客就是Steve Wozniak，这台电脑就是 Apple I，芯片就是MOS Technology 开发的 8 位微处理器 6502。 该芯片及其变体后来成为 Apple II、 Commodore PET、Commodore 64和BBC Micro等开创性计算 机的主脑，更不用说任天堂娱乐系统和雅达利 2600（也称为雅达利VCS）等游戏系统了。 芯片的创造者之一Chuck Peddle回忆起 1975 年在贸易展上推出 6502 时的情景。"我们有两个装满 芯片的玻璃罐，"他说，"我让我的妻子坐在那里卖它们。" （2016 年，佩德尔承认，当时他只有足 够多的处理器装在罐子的上层——里面大部分都装着无法工作的芯片。）大批人蜂拥而至。原因是： 6502 不仅比竞争对手速度快，而且价格便宜得多，售价 25 美元，而英特尔 8080 和摩托罗拉 6800 的售价都接近 200 美元。 与佩德尔共同研发出 6502 的Bill Mensch表示，实现成本降低的关键 ...