Amstrad PPC

Amstrad PPC512/PPC640
Amstrad PPC512
ManufacturerAmstrad
TypePortable computer
Release date1987; 37 years ago (1987)
Introductory priceUS$1,099 (equivalent to $2,947 in 2023)
Operating systemMS-DOS 3.3
CPUNEC V30 @ 8 MHz
Memory512KB (PPC512); 640KB (PPC640)
Storage3.5" floppy disk drives
DisplayMonochrome non-backlit LCD; 640x200 resolution
GraphicsMonochrome Display Adapter, CGA
SoundPC Speaker
Input102-key keyboard with numpad and function keys
ConnectivityRS-232, Centronics, 2400 baud modem (PPC640)
Dimensions4 x 17,5 x 9 inches
Mass12 lb (5.4 kg)
Backward
compatibility
IBM PC compatible
PredecessorPC-1512

The Amstrad PPC512[1][2] and Amstrad PPC640[3][2] were the first portable IBM PC compatible computers made by Amstrad. Released in 1987,[4][5] they were a development of the desktop PC-1512 and PC-1640 models.

As portable computers, they contained all the elements necessary to perform computing on the move. They had a keyboard and a monochrome LCD display built in and also had space for disposable batteries to power the PC where a suitable alternative power source (i.e. mains or 12 volt vehicle power) was not available. The PCs came with either one or two double density double side floppy disc drives and the PPC640 model also featured a modem.

Both models were supplied with PPC Organiser software and the PPC640 was additionally supplied with the Mirror II communications software.

  1. ^ "Amstrad PPC512 - MCbx". oldcomputer.info. Retrieved 2022-11-22.
  2. ^ a b "Amstrad PPC Technical Reference Manual". www.seasip.info. Retrieved 2022-11-22.
  3. ^ "AMSTRAD PORTABLE PPC 640". vintage-laptops.com. 2017-04-06. Retrieved 2022-11-22.
  4. ^ "Amstrad PPC512 - MCbx". oldcomputer.info. Retrieved 2022-11-23.
  5. ^ "AMSTRAD PORTABLE PPC 640". vintage-laptops.com. 2017-04-06. Retrieved 2022-11-23.