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Can data tapes be recorded/played on a standard cassette recorder? was closed as off-topic.
I can see why someone would think that this is about a tape recorder ("electronic devices") but in the FAQ it says "...except insofar as they interface with your computer", and my question was about a computer (TRS-80) interfacing with it.

Is the TRS-80 not considered a "computer" on SuperUser or is there another reason why this was closed?

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Relevant Meta topic that supports your case. I don't think that capabilities and use cases of these devices was considered in that topic though, something that is, IMO, the major blocker against considering Android/iOS devices computers. – Daniel Beck Nov 14 '11 at 18:49
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2 Answers

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I voted for the same reason as Daniel. We traditionally classify PCs and Macs as computers, and we generally have no problem with home networking equipment.

I wasn't aware of the community decision here, which did not receive any downvotes:

However, at that time, nobody mentioned Android and iPads. A more recent question would argue against this (if we say that an Android Tablet is not a computer, why should the TRS-80 be?):

I am still torn over this, but stand by my decision to close it, as this is merely an electronic device (although considered a "computer" back then) and very very localized.

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I suppose the TRS PC-1 does bear more resemblance to a tablet (such as iOS/Android devices) than to, for example, similar 'desktop' machines of the time (such as the TRS I or Commodores) – Nate Koppenhaver Nov 14 '11 at 19:54
Yes, you're right. This can be argued (like with the ability to connect an actual keyboard and the possibilities to do other stuff you'd normally do on a computer). I'm not entirely happy with the definition of what "a computer" is for Super User either, but if we have to draw a line, I think here's one. – slhck Nov 14 '11 at 21:12
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up vote 2 down vote

I'm doubt this is a computer according to the (admittedly fuzzy) definition used on this site. This is why I raised attention to this question in chat. @slhck and I voted to close then.

It may have been a premature call to action, as I haven't used this device myself, but it really appeared to be little more than a simple calculator.

AFAICT, we classify quite a few products as electronic devices that are in both computational capabilities and modes of use much more similar to today's "computers" than this device.

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