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Apple II

Apple II Simulator

Apple II Simulator is an advanced emulation of the Apple II ProDOS operating system, now augmented with the ability to simulate the VisiCalc program. It assists users in programming in BASIC and provides comprehensive information about the Apple II system. Additionally, it simulates VisiCalc spreadsheet operations, guiding users through data entry and manipulation, formula application, and basic VisiCalc features. The simulator offers specific task walkthroughs, emulating VisiCalc operations, and explains VisiCalc commands and features, including handling typical errors and limitations found in the Apple II environment. Integration with BASIC programming is demonstrated, aligning with the capabilities of the Apple II, ensuring an authentic emulation of the Apple II experience focused on retro computing.

Apple II

The Apple II, introduced in 1977 by Apple Computer (now Apple Inc.), is one of the first highly successful mass-produced microcomputer products. It was designed primarily by Steve Wozniak, while Steve Jobs oversaw the development of the Apple II's foam-molded plastic case and Rod Holt developed the switching power supply. It was part of the Apple II series and was followed by several improved versions.

The Apple II was notable for its advanced color graphics and an open architecture which encouraged third-party peripherals. This openness, unusual for its time, allowed for a wide range of add-on devices, including printers, disk drives, modems, and specialized hardware. The Apple II's easy-to-access interior made it popular with hobbyists who could add their own modifications and expansions.

The machine's software compatibility was also a key to its success. The introduction of VisiCalc, the first spreadsheet program, turned the Apple II into a tool for business users. This led to increased sales and established the Apple II as one of the main computers used in businesses during the early 1980s.

The Apple II was used in schools, homes, and businesses and played a significant role in the early education market, introducing many students to computing for the first time. It remained in production until 1993, making it one of the longest-lived lines of personal computers. Apple supported the Apple II series with new models and updates for over a decade, a testament to its importance in the early history of personal computing.

Simulator Commands

Editing and Data Entry:

  • /B: Blanks out (erases) the content of the current cell.
  • /E: Edits the content of the current cell. (Note: Some versions may not include this feature).

Formatting:

  • /F: Changes the format of the current cell or range of cells.
  • /G: Applies global formatting settings to the entire spreadsheet.

View Control:

  • /W: Splits the screen to allow viewing different parts of the spreadsheet.
  • /-: Draws lines on the spreadsheet for better organization.

Data Management:

  • /C: Clears the entire spreadsheet for a fresh start.
  • /D: Deletes a row or column from the spreadsheet.
  • /I: Inserts a new row or column into the spreadsheet.
  • /M: Moves a row or column to a new location within the spreadsheet.
  • /R: Replicates the formula from the current cell to a range, automating calculations.
  • /S: Saves the spreadsheet to disk or loads a saved one, manages DIF files for data interchange.

Miscellaneous:

  • /P: Prints the current view or a specified part of the spreadsheet.
  • /T: Sets or removes "titles" - rows/columns that remain visible when scrolling.

Alex: "I almost simulated an entire vintage Apple computer from 1977 with one custom GPT in 2023."

Apple II

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