VT100

VT100

Manufacturer	DEC
Type	Computer terminal
Release date	1978 (1978)
CPU	Intel 8080
Memory	3 KB RAM 8 KB ROM 175 byte NVRAM
Display	12 in (30 cm) CRT 80x24 or 132x14 characters
Sound	Speaker (in keyboard)
Input	83-key detachable keyboard
Connectivity	RS-232 serial (optional) 20 mA current loop
Weight	Monitor: 30 lb (14 kg) Keyboard: 4.5 lb (2.0 kg)
Predecessor	VT50
Successor	VT220

The VT100 is a video terminal, introduced in August 1978 by Digital Equipment Corporation (DEC). It was one of the first terminals to support ANSI escape codes for cursor control and other tasks, and added a number of extended codes for special features like controlling the status lights on the keyboard. This led to rapid uptake of the ANSI standard, which became the de facto standard for hardware video terminals and later terminal emulators.

The VT100 series, especially the VT102, was extremely successful in the market, and made DEC the leading terminal vendor at the time. The VT100 series was replaced by the VT200 series starting in 1983, which proved equally successful. Ultimately, over six million terminals in the VT series were sold, based largely on the success of the VT100.^[1]