IBM PC Convertible

IBM PC Convertible
IBM PC Convertible
Release dateApril 2, 1986; 38 years ago (1986-04-02)
Introductory priceUS$2,000 (equivalent to $5,560 in 2023)
DiscontinuedAugust 7, 1989; 35 years ago (1989-08-07)[1]
Operating systemIBM PC DOS with custom icon-oriented shell interface
CPUIntel 8088 CPU @ 4.77 MHz
Memory256 KB of RAM (expandable to 640 KB)
StorageDual 720 KB 3.5-inch floppy drives
DisplayMonochrome CGA-compatible LCD
Graphics80x25 (text), 640x200, and 320x200
PowerBattery: 9.6v/2400mAh (NiCd)
Power supply: 15 VDC, 2.7A.
Mass13 pounds (5.8 kg)
PredecessorIBM Portable Personal Computer
SuccessorIBM PS/2 L40 SX
(IBM PS/2 note)

The IBM PC Convertible (model 5140) is a laptop computer made by IBM, first sold in April 1986.[2] The Convertible was IBM's first laptop-style computer, following the luggable IBM Portable, and introduced the 3½-inch floppy disk format to the IBM product line.[3] Like modern laptops, it featured power management and the ability to run from batteries.[4]

It was replaced in 1991 by the IBM PS/2 L40 SX, and in Japan by the IBM Personal System/55note, the predecessor to the ThinkPad.[citation needed]

  1. ^ "IBM 5140 PC Convertible Products and Selected Features Withdrawal From IBM Marketing: Announcement Letter Number 189-107" (Press release). International Business Machines Corporation. July 6, 1989. Retrieved May 27, 2020.
  2. ^ "CUSTOMER ANNOUNCEMENT SUMMARY - APRIL 2, 1986". www-01.ibm.com. 1986-04-02. Retrieved 2020-10-07.
  3. ^ Hawkins, William J. (February 1987). "Compute anywhere with PCs TO GO". Popular Science. p. 89.
  4. ^ Casella, Phil (August 18, 1986). "IBM PC Convertible: Sturdy, No Surprises". InfoWorld. p. 48.