DOS Subnotebook: ABC Bicom 260i Details and specs
ABC Bicom 260i
About this machine:
The ABC Bicom 260i is a bit too large to be considered a palmtop, but even for todays "netbooks" is is comparably small. Besides the fact that it features a 286 processor and a HDD it is merely better than most of the palmtops out there. The large display screams "VGA" while in fact it is just doublescan CGA. Yes a 286 will let you run Windows 3.1, but only in standard mode, no "Enhanced mode" for you. Pictured is a Highscreen A5 which is the same 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: 60 MB HDD
Released: 1992
Originally retailed for:: 1250 USD
Clone of: Not a clone. Bigger HDD Version of the ABC Bicom 240i
Similar models: Highscreen A5-PC, ABC Bicom 240i
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)
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