IBM stirs up market with plans to unveil home computer that will be easy to use

Article Abstract:

IBM introduces its $1,000 to $2,000 PS/1 line of user-friendly microcomputers, designed primarily for home use. PS/1 microcomputers range from a basic system with no hard drive and a monochrome monitor to one with a 30Mbyte hard drive and a color monitor. Each system comes with a mouse, Microsoft Corp's Works integrated software package, IBM's Prodigy videotext software and a modem. IBM plans to use department stores as sales points for the first time, in addition to IBM's usual distributors. Analysts have doubts about the PS/1s, given the failure of the IBM's previous attempt to enter the home microcomputer market with the PCjr. They also believe it is too difficult to expand the machines' power because of a lack of expansion slots. IBM is expected to face continued competition from less expensive, more powerful clones. Another potential issue is an electronic customer service system that may be confusing for novices.

Microcomputers, Microcomputer, Human Factors, User-Friendliness, IBM PS/1 (Intel-compatible system)

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IBM to unveil disk-drive line next Tuesday

Article Abstract:

IBM will introduce a new line of disk drives for its mainframes on Nov 14, 1989. The shipment of the drives has been delayed, undercutting IBM's 3rd qtr earnings. The drives will not be available in volume until the 2nd qtr of 1990, and only about 25,000 units are expected to ship during that year. The drives will store 22.5Gbytes of data, three times the current capacity of IBM's existing line. IBM also announces that it will acquire the Cadam software subsidiary of Lockheed for about $80 million. Cadam sells computer-aided design software for IBM mainframes and the products will fit neatly into IBM's new computer-integrated manufacturing (CIM) strategy.

Computer storage devices, Mergers, acquisitions and divestments, Equipment and supplies, Profits, Disk drives, Mainframe computers, Mainframe Computer, Profit, Acquisition, Product Delay, Product introduction delays, CADAM Inc.

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