I.B.M. is counterpunching on assorted fronts; surprises include a tactical retreat on Micro Channel and an unusual drive

Article Abstract:

IBM moves to strengthen its microcomputer product line, introducing various products and enhancements. Introductions include: four PS/2 microcomputers based on the 20-MHz version of Intel's 80386SX microprocessor; an upgrade kit for PS/2 Models 90 and 95 that replaces their microprocessors with Intel's 50- MHz 80486; and a high-capacity disk drive, a touch-screen color monitor for multimedia applications, a low-cost black-and-white monitor, an IBM version of DOS 5.0, and an optical drive that will write as well as read data. Three of the PS/2 i386SX machines - the 35LS, 35SX and 40SX - use the AT bus, which represents a retreat by IBM from its newer Micro Channel Architecture. IBM waged a campaign on behalf of MCA since 1987, but customers never accepted it. IBM will include a high-capacity 2.88-Mbyte disk drive as standard equipment on its fourth PS/2, the 57SX, frustrating customers who use 3.5-inch drives and generating new customer dissatisfaction.

Equipment and supplies, product announcement, Computer Industry, IBM PS/2 95 (Intel-compatible system), IBM PS/2 90 (486-based system), IBM PS/2 40 (Microcomputer), IBM PS/2 57 SX (Microcomputer), IBM PS/2 35 LS (Microcomputer), IBM PS/2 35 SX (Microcomputer)

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I.B.M, fighting back, introduces a new line

Article Abstract:

IBM introduces a new IBM PS/ValuePoint line of low cost microcomputers in an attempt to recapture business from clone manufacturers at the bottom of the microcomputer market. The machines are priced from $1,300, and IBM's intention is to draw buyers with a combination of its recognizable name and prices only $100-$200 more than for machines from smaller manufacturers. Dell Computer Corp and Compaq are the targets of the ValuePoint line. The microcomputers contain no new technological innovations. In fact, many marketing points of the PS/2 line, such as Micro Channel internal data transmission, XGA graphics and 2.88-Mbyte disk drives, are not available on ValuePoint machines. Also, the PS/2's three-year service policy with a four-hour response time has been downgraded to a one-year contract with next-day response.

Product Announcement, Low Cost, IBM PS/ValuePoint (Intel-compatible system)

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