"IBM 5170 -The Birth of the AT Standard"
Introduced in August 1984 and discontinued in 1987, the IBM Personal Computer AT (Model 5170) established a new benchmark in the 1980s computing market. Shortly after its release, it became widely imitated by other PC manufacturers. Powered by the 16-bit Intel 80286 processor, the IBM AT introduced significant innovations, including EGA graphics, 16-bit expansion slots, and a 1.2MB 5.25" floppy disk drive. In April 1986, IBM refreshed the AT by upgrading the CPU from 6 to 8 MHz.
- Total Units Sold: Over 100,000
- Initial Price: $6,000 (approx. $16,700 in 2024 money)
Atari's Line of Personal Computers
Released in January 1987 and discontinued in 1990, the Atari PC series marked Atari’s entry into the IBM PC-compatible market. The first model, later renamed the Atari PC1, was followed by the PC2, which featured a larger case and five expansion slots. Atari ultimately released five desktop PC models: the PC1, PC2, PC3, PC4, and PC5.
- The Atari PC1 originally retailed for $699 (about $1,900 adjusted for inflation)
"Setting the Standards for the IT Industry"
In August 1981, IBM introduced its first microcomputer -the IBM Personal Computer (IBM PC). This launch marked a turning point in computing history, establishing the foundation for the modern PC architecture. Featuring an open hardware design and running Microsoft’s PC-DOS, the IBM PC quickly became the benchmark for compatibility.
By 1984, IBM followed up with the significantly upgraded IBM AT, powered by Intel’s 80286 processor and featuring a new 16-bit AT bus, cementing IBM’s influence in the emerging personal computer market.
FM Towns -The Japanese Multimedia PC
Fujitsu manufactured the FM Towns from 1989 to 1997. It was an innovative Japanese multimedia computer built around Intel x86 processors and featuring one of the world's first CD-ROM drives as standard. It stood out with advanced audio-visual capabilities reminiscent of arcade machines.
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Approximately 500,000 units were sold
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Original launch price: 338,000 yen (~$3,000 in 2023)