# Microprofessor III

> computer model by Multitech (later Acer)

**Wikidata**: [Q1502515](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q1502515)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Microprofessor_III)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/microprofessor-iii

## Summary
The Microprofessor III (MPF III) is a home computer developed by Multitech (later Acer) released in 1983. It was designed as an educational and hobbyist machine compatible with the Apple IIe architecture. The system featured an 8-bit MOS Technology 6502 CPU and served as part of the Microprofessor series aimed at promoting computer literacy.

## Key Facts
- Released in 1983 by Multitech, later rebranded under Acer.
- Based on the Apple IIe design, targeting education and personal computing markets.
- Powered by an 8-bit MOS Technology 6502 microprocessor.
- Succeeded the Microprofessor II in the product line.
- Commercialized primarily in Taiwan and other Asian markets.
- Also known by aliases: MPF III, MPF-III, MPF 3.
- Classified as a microcomputer and home computer.
- Featured in multiple Wikipedia languages including English, German, Spanish, and Chinese.
- Has a sitelink count of 9 across Wikimedia projects.
- Identified in databases via old_computers.com ID 289 and HomeComputer Museum ID Multitech_Microprofessor_MPFIII.

## FAQs
### Q: What was the purpose of the Microprofessor III?
A: The Microprofessor III was created for educational use and personal computing, particularly to teach programming and basic computer operations. It followed earlier models in the Microprofessor series and offered compatibility with popular systems like the Apple IIe.

### Q: Who manufactured the Microprofessor III?
A: The Microprofessor III was originally manufactured by Multitech, which later became known as Acer Inc., a major Taiwanese electronics company founded in August 1976.

### Q: How does the Microprofessor III compare to the Apple IIe?
A: The Microprofessor III was based on the Apple IIe's architecture but tailored for affordability and accessibility in emerging markets. While it shared similarities such as using the same 6502 processor, it lacked some advanced features found in the full Apple IIe lineup.

## Why It Matters
The Microprofessor III played a significant role in democratizing access to computing during the early 1980s. As part of the broader Microprofessor series, it helped introduce many users—particularly students and educators—to personal computing through affordable hardware and accessible software environments. Its development by Multitech (later Acer) marked one of the earliest steps toward establishing Taiwan as a global hub for consumer electronics manufacturing. By emulating successful Western designs like the Apple IIe while reducing costs, the MPF III contributed to expanding digital literacy in regions where high-end computers were financially out of reach.

## Notable For
- Being part of the pioneering Microprofessor series that introduced computing to non-Western audiences.
- Featuring direct architectural influence from the widely adopted Apple IIe platform.
- Serving as a bridge between Western PC standards and localized production in Asia.
- Utilizing the iconic 8-bit MOS Technology 6502 CPU, aligning it with classic computing eras.
- Representing early branding evolution from Multitech to Acer, now a globally recognized tech brand.

## Body
### Overview
The Microprofessor III (MPF III) was a home computer launched in 1983 by Multitech, a company that would eventually become Acer Inc. Designed with educational purposes in mind, the MPF III targeted schools, hobbyists, and individuals interested in learning about computers and programming.

### Technical Specifications
- **CPU**: MOS Technology 6502 (8-bit)
- **Architecture**: Based on Apple IIe design
- **Aliases**: MPF III, MPF-III, MPF 3
- **Category**: Microcomputer, Home Computer

### Development & Manufacturer Background
Manufactured by Multitech, the precursor to Acer Inc., the MPF III emerged during a period when personal computing was gaining traction worldwide. Founded in August 1976 in Taiwan, Multitech evolved into Acer—a multinational corporation headquartered in New Taipei City with over 7,240 employees by 2019.

### Market Positioning and Legacy
Positioned as an affordable alternative to more expensive systems like the Apple IIe, the MPF III enabled wider access to computing resources in developing markets. Though not as commercially dominant as its Western counterparts, it remains historically relevant within vintage computing circles and museum collections dedicated to preserving early computer history.

### Identification and Documentation
- **Wikidata Description**: Computer model by Multitech (later Acer)
- **Commercialization Date**: 1983
- **Image Source**: [Microprofessor III Image](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:FilePath/Mpf-III.jpg)
- **Database IDs**:
  - Freebase ID: `/m/06n63m`
  - Old Computers.com ID: `289`
  - HomeComputer Museum ID: `Multitech_Microprofessor_MPFIII`
- **Wikipedia Languages Supported**: Catalan, Commons, German, English, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, Serbian, Chinese

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## References

1. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013