Introduction of the Z-80 SoftCard

The Z-80 SoftCard was a pivotal development in the microcomputer industry, particularly for users of the Apple II. This add-on card allowed the Apple II to run the CP/M operating system, which was widely used in business environments at the time. The introduction of the SoftCard at the West Coast Computer Faire marked a significant moment for Apple II users, as it expanded the capabilities of the machine beyond its native operating system. The SoftCard's ability to run CP/M opened up a new range of software applications, making the Apple II more versatile and appealing to a broader audience. The immediate success of the SoftCard was evident, with 5,000 units sold shortly after its launch, a notable figure considering the size of the microcomputer market during that period. This success not only demonstrated the demand for such enhancements but also positioned the SoftCard as a key product for Microsoft, becoming its top revenue source in that timeframe. The impact of the Z-80 SoftCard extended beyond sales figures; it played a crucial role in establishing the Apple II as a serious contender in the business computing space, influencing the direction of software development and user adoption in the years that followed.