The motivation behind this work has been the view that for 20 years computer hardware has become increasingly complex, languages more devious, and operating systems less efficient. Now, microcomputers afford some of us the opportunity to return to simpler systems. Inexpensive, LSI microcomputers could open up vast new markets. Unfortunately, development of these markets may be delayed by undue emphasis on performance levels which prohibit minimum cost. We are already promised more complex next-generation microcomputers before the initial ones have been widely applied. This paper discusses these points and describes a simplified microcomputer architecture that offers maximum flexibility at minimum cost. Design philosophy, programming considerations, and typical systems are also discussed. Experience with breadboard versions of this architecture has verified its usefulness over a surprisingly wide range of potential applications.