DOS Subnotebook: ABC Bicom 240i Details and specs
ABC Bicom 240i
About this machine:
The ABC Bicom 240i is exactly the same as the Bicom 260i, just with a smaller HDD (40 MB instead of 60MB). The picture is from the Highscreen which is the same model just with a different branding.
Specs:
CPU: AMD 80286LX @ 16MHz
Graphics: Monochrome CGA (Doublescan), 80 x 25 character text mode, CGA 2 color monochrome graphics mode
Display: 640 x 400 monochrome Supertwist LCD , 4 grey scales, 7.2 inch
Memory (RAM): 2 MB
ROM (Software): 1.5 MB
I/O ports: Full size RS232 Serial and parallel ports, PCMCIA 2.0 Type II Slot
Sound: PC Speaker - Piezo
Operating System: DR-DOS 6.0
Software: Custom PIM (Memo, calculator, scheduler, phone book, etc)
Size: Length 22.3 cm, Width 16.4 cm, Height 3.1 cm (8.8 inches x 6.4 inches x 1.2 inch)
Powered by: 5 AA batteries - rechargable or non-rechargable or AC adaptor (optional accessory), CR2032 Lithium button cell as memory backup
Weight: 997 gram (35 ounces)
Special features: 40 MB HDD
Released: 1992
Originally retailed for:: 1250 USD
Clone of: Not a clone. Smaller HDD Version of the ABC Bicom 260i
Similar models: Highscreen A5-PC, ABC Bicom 260i
Pros:
- Fully CGA compliant, so most CGA based DOS appz and games work
- Excellent keyboard
- Full size Serial and parallel ports
- PCMCIA 2.0 Type II, so loads of Cards work
- 286 processor, so more Software works than on the 8086 palmtops
- Customizable boot sequence, so possible to load other operating systems
- "Dumb" charging never stops to charge the batteries, so for longer sessions with AC power remove them or risk an Explosion
Cons:
- Too big for a palmtop, think of it as one of the first subnotebooks
- 286 not suitable for Windows 3.1 in enhanced mode
- Power management is among the worst ever
- One of the worst PIMs ever
- No "Instant on"/Resume Feature
- If AC Power is plugged in the batteries are not used, even if AC power suddenly fails (Blackout)
- Just CGA seems inappropriate for this size of Screen and Laptop
Collector Value:
9 of 10
Usage Value:
5 of 10
Verdict:
Pretty rare and not really the best model ever. Big, heavy and besides the HDD and 286 processor not really special. More flaws than features.
Extras (Drivers and utilities)
Back to the Palmtop PC index