GoKawiilCommodore's VICmodem 1600, the first sub-$100 modem, launched in 1982
Commodore introduced the 1600 VICmodem at the January 1982 Winter Consumer Electronics Show, bringing it to market that March as a low-cost add-on for the VIC-20 computer. Designed by Anchor Automation and built around a Motorola MC14412 chip with just six other components, the modem required users to manually dial a phone and plug its cord into the device rather than using an acoustic coupler or autodial hardware.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
The VICmodem reflects Commodore's broader strategy of undercutting competitors on price to widen access to home computing and early online services. Former Commodore executive Michael Tomczyk has claimed it was the first modem to sell a million units, though the author disputes this, estimating actual sales closer to 140,000 based on observed serial numbers. The device's stripped-down design illustrates the cost-cutting trade-offs Commodore accepted to hit an aggressive price target.
- The Commodore 1600 VICmodem launched in March 1982 as the first modem priced under $100.
- It lacked autodial capability, requiring users to manually dial and connect the phone line to the modem.
- Sales figures are disputed: a former executive claims one million units sold, but the author estimates around 140,000.
Source: dfarq.homeip.net — Dave Farquhar, 2026-10-26
Published there as: “Commodore 1600 VICmodem”
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