Microsoft Unveils Bill Gates’s Original BASIC Code Behind Commodore Computers
Nearly half a century after the inception of Microsoft, the tech giant has made a significant historical contribution by releasing 6,955 lines of BASIC assembly code from 1976. This code, which was pivotal in the early days of personal computing, was made available on GitHub in early September. The release, framed as a milestone in software history, is licensed under the MIT License, allowing for free study, reuse, and even commercial use.
Historical Significance of the BASIC Release
The release of the 6502 BASIC interpreter marks a notable moment in the history of Microsoft and personal computing. Developed by Bill Gates and Ric Weiland, the code was adapted from earlier BASIC versions for the MOS 6502 processor. This adaptation was licensed by Commodore in 1977 for $25,000, leading to its inclusion in popular machines like the PET, VIC-20, and Commodore 64. These systems played a crucial role in introducing personal computing to schools and homes, making Microsoft BASIC a familiar name in educational settings.
The released code is version 1.1, which includes updates made in collaboration with Commodore engineer John Feagans in 1978. This version, known as BASIC V2 on the Commodore PET, is fondly remembered by many early users. The release not only serves as a nostalgic reminder of Microsoft’s origins but also highlights the ingenuity required to develop software for the limited resources of 8-bit machines.
Technical Insights from the Released Code
The assembly code released by Microsoft provides valuable insights into the early development of programming languages. It showcases techniques that were essential for optimizing performance on constrained hardware. Key features of the interpreter include full BASIC language implementation, floating-point arithmetic, string handling, and array support. These elements contributed to BASIC’s reputation as a flexible and beginner-friendly programming language.
Additionally, the code demonstrates efficient memory utilization, string garbage collection, and dynamic variable storage, which were crucial for making the interpreter functional on 8-bit systems. The release also indicates support for conditional compilation across various pioneering computer systems, including the Apple II and Ohio Scientific. For historians and hobbyists, these technical details offer a glimpse into the challenges and innovations of early software development.
Microsoft’s Legacy and the Impact of BASIC
The release of the BASIC assembly code underscores Microsoft’s early influence in the personal computer software market. It positioned the company as a dominant player long before the advent of MS-DOS or Windows. While the release highlights the company’s foundational role in software development, it also serves as a reminder of the complexities and controversies that have marked Microsoft’s history, including its later aggressive business practices.
Despite these complexities, the release of the BASIC code is a significant step towards transparency in Microsoft’s early programming efforts. It allows modern developers and enthusiasts to explore the roots of a language that shaped the landscape of personal computing. The historical context provided by this release enriches our understanding of how BASIC contributed to the evolution of programming and the software industry as a whole.
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