VTech Laser 2001
The VTech Laser 2001 is not really part of the other VTech line of computers. The system architecture is different, as this computer is based on the 6502 CPU, not the Z80 as the other VTech machines. The Laser 2001 was produced together with the CreatiVision as a home video game console to compete with the Commodore 64 and the Atari systems. It was marketed as a multimedia console because it could play video games and could function as a home computer. Games and other software was available on cassette tapes, but the library was not as extensive as its competitors. One of the more popular games was an Asteroids clone called "Laser 2001".
One of the features of the machine was "compatibility with 2600 and Colecovision". This was achieved by a clone of a colecovision system that could be plugged into the computer. The colecovision then had a VCS2600 expansion box in turn.
CPU View - MOS 6502
The 6502 is an 8-bit MicroProcessor designed by MOS Technology. The team was led by Chuck Peddle and had also worked on the Motorola 6800. The 6502 is a simplified, but faster and cheaper design than the 6800.
The 6502 was introduced in 1975 and was the cheapest microprocessor on the market. Together with the Zilog Z80, the 6502 helped start the home computer revolution of the 1980s. The 6502 was used in a wide range of devices: the Atari 2600, the 8-bit Atari home computers, the Apple II, the Nintendo Entertainment System, the Commodore 64, the BBC Micro and many others. All used the 6502 or a variation of it.
The 6502 is a 1MHz design, while the 6502A is designed for 2MHz. The 6502A is 100% compatible with the original 6502.
Commodore soon bought MOS Technology, but conitnued to sell the microprocessor to competitors and licensed the design to other manufacturers.
Source: WikiPedia - MOS Technology 6502
RAM max: 2kB
VRAM: 16kB Sound Chip none Sound 3 channels Display Chip unknown Display 256x192 in 16 colors Best Text unknown Best Color 16 colors Graphics 256x192 Sprites unknown Storage Cassette, optional 128kB 5.25" disk drive