ABOUT QUANTA - Information on the Association

The Independent QL Users Group

QUANTA is the independent user group for Sinclair QL users. It was formed in February 1984 with the aim of providing an independent source of support for, and sharing information about, the Sinclair QL. In time, it has expanded its brief to include compatible systems such as the ICL OPD (One Per Desk), CST Thor, Aurora and Q40/Q60, as well as emulators of the Sinclair QL running on other platforms.

QUANTA is a non-profit organisation run by an elected committee of honorary officials. Membership is by SUBSCRIPTION (currently 14 GBP); the membership fee has not changed for many years. There is now the option of an email version of the magazine (in pdf format) available to all, but primarily intended to eliminate the postage surcharges levied on overseas members. Full details are available on the Membership Form or from the Membership Secretary. The subscription includes a bi-monthly magazine, access to QUANTA's large free QL software library, advice and help with QL-related matters, workshops (QL shows held in various areas) and support for local sub-groups.

Workshops

From time to time, QUANTA organises small QL shows, called workshops, in various areas. Admission is free to all. QL traders and software authors may be in attendance at these workshops, giving you the chance to meet them and to discuss any problems or to see their products before you buy. It is also a good place to meet QL "experts" to sort out any QL-related problems you may have. Members can bring their QL systems along with them to set up and spend an enjoyable day's QLing with like minded QLers.

Click here to see pictures from QL Is 25, on 18/19 April 2009

More show pictures can often be found on Tony Firshman's website.

There is usually a programme of talks and discussions on a wide variety of QL related subjects, such as new products, teach-in sessions, policy discussions, questions and answers and so on.

The dates and venues are advertised in QUANTA and 'QL Today' magazines, and can often be found on various QL users' Web sites as well including the Forthcoming Events page on this site.

Details of the software library are available from the QUANTA librarian.

Full details are available in the QUANTA member's guide, which is provided to each member when they join.

See also the group's Welcome Guide and  Constitution

Copies of annual accounts are available from the Secretary.

QUANTA Library

In addition to the Magazine, QUANTA has a large library of software, currently standing at over 900 programs written mostly by members. This is not public domain, as it is only available to members. Details of programs in the library are kept in a database - the database may be viewed by non-members to see what software we ahve available to members. Copies of the database and Library Guide (disk LG01) are available from the Librarian, or from this website.

QUANTA Subgroups

QUANTA has various subgroups across the UK, and there is an active membership in most parts of the country.
QUANTA also has close ties with QL enthusiasts in other countries.