IBM Portable Personal Computer
 | |
| Developer | IBM |
|---|---|
| Type | portable computer |
| Release date | February 1984 |
| Discontinued | April 1986 [1] |
| Operating system | IBM PC DOS Version 2.10 (disk) |
| CPU | Intel 8088 @ 4.77MHz |
| Memory | 256 kilobytes (expandable to 512 kilobytes) |
| Storage | one or two half-height 5.25" 360K floppy disk drives |
| Display | CGA card connected to an internal 9 inch monochrome (amber) composite monitor |
| Graphics | 80 X 25 text |
| Weight | 30 pounds |
The IBM Portable Personal Computer 5155 model 68 was an early portable computer developed by IBM after the success of Compaq's suitcase-size portable machine (the Compaq Portable). It was released in February, 1984, and was eventually replaced by the IBM Convertible.
The Portable was basically a PC/XT motherboard, transplanted into a Compaq-style luggable case. The system featured 256 kilobytes of memory (expandable to 512 kB on the motherboard), an added CGA card connected to an internal monochrome (amber) composite monitor, and one or two half-height 5.25" 360K floppy disk drives. Unlike the Compaq Portable, which used a dual-mode monitor and special display card, IBM used a stock CGA board and a 5" amber monochrome composite monitor, which had lower resolution. It could however, display color if connected to an external monitor or television. If a bit less sophisticated than the Compaq Portable, IBM's machine had the advantage of a lower price tag. Hard disks were a very common third-party add-on as IBM did not offer them from the factory. [1]
The motherboard had eight expansion slots. A separate 83-key keyboard and cable was provided. The power supply was rated 114 watts and was suitable for operation on either 120 VAC or 230 VAC. Models were available with either one or two half-height 360 kB 5 1/4 inch floppy drives. [1]
References
- IBM (1984). Personal Computer Hardware Reference Library: Guide to Operations, Portable Personal Computer. IBM Part Numbers 6936571 and 1502332.