New Acquisition: Amstrad PPC640
| Make | Model | Serial Number |
|---|---|---|
| Amstrad | PPC640 | 532-7Z34520 |
Overview
- Manufacturer: Amstrad.
- Production Years: The Amstrad PPC640 was released in 1988.
- Historical Significance: The PPC640 was one of the first portable IBM PC-compatible computers made by Amstrad. It was designed as a compact alternative to Amstrad’s desktop models, the PC-1512 and PC-1640, offering portability while maintaining compatibility with standard PC software.
- Architecture: The PPC640 was based on the NEC V30 processor and featured a monochrome LCD display, making it a practical choice for business users needing computing on the go.
Specification
- Processor: NEC V30 running at 8 MHz.
- Memory: 640KB RAM.
- Storage: One or two 720KB 3.5-inch floppy disk drives.
- Display: Monochrome non-backlit LCD with a resolution of 640 × 200.
- Graphics: CGA-compatible monochrome display.
- Audio: Basic PC speaker functionality.
- Connectivity:
- RS-232 serial port.
- Centronics parallel port.
- Built-in 2400 baud modem.
- Expansion: External ISA expansion cage available for additional peripherals.
- Operating System: MS-DOS 3.3, bundled with PPC Organiser and Mirror II communications software.
- Power Options:
- Ten C-size batteries.
- Mains adapter.
- Car cigarette lighter adapter.
- Amstrad monitor with built-in power supply.
- Common Faults:
- Failure of the LCD screen due to aging components.
- Degradation of floppy disk drive mechanisms, leading to read/write errors.
- Battery compartment corrosion from old or leaking batteries.
- Power supply instability when using non-original adapters.
How Did I Acquire It?
Where Did I Get It From?
I found this on facebook
How Was It Described to Me?
Amstrad PPC640 comes with floppy disc, instruction book, key words booklet also with amstrad carrying case. Went through family stuff and thought it might be useful for others. Can pick up or can deliver if local (M9)
Supplier Photos
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Now That I Have It in My Hands
Initial Observations
The machine is neat and tidy, comes with a travel bag but no box
Initial Inspection
This takes me back to my teens looking at this, however as is common for these machines, the LCD is extremely faded, It has never been run on batteries and the battery compartment still has the original spaces inside it.
Next Steps
Repair and Restoration Plan
- - Basic clean
- - Check and refurb the floppy disks drives
- - What can we do about the faded LCD display?
Goals & Challenges
- Replace one of the built in FDD's with a gotek based floppy disk adapter
- Upgrade the LCD screen to VGA or higher???
Wishlist
As usual, I'd love to get this fully complete set safe in original machine appropriate packaging
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