Computer History Museum

Osborne 1 portable computer

This object is a prototype of the Osborne 01 portable computer. A silver label on the back panel says "DEMO ONLY". The computer has a metal case with a metal handle on one end. This end also has a recessed black panel with an attach AC power cord, a power switch and circuit breaker. The opposite end has a detachable cover which becomes the keyboard when removed. The ASCII keyboard has an 11 key numeric keypad at the right. Removing the keyboard reveals the computer's front panel which includes a 5 in. CRT display and two 5.25 in. floppy disk drives. The display has controls labeled "BRT." and "CONTR." . There is a "RESET" button. Near the bottom is a row of connectors labled as follows: MODEM SERIAL RS232 IEEE-488 KEYBOARD EXT. VIDEO BATT. A flat cable from the keyboard plugs into the KEYBOARD connector.

Osborne 1 portable computer - Image 1
Osborne 1 portable computer - Image 2
Osborne 1 portable computer - Image 3
Osborne 1 portable computer - Image 4
Osborne 1 portable computer - Image 5

Item Details

Type
Physical Object
Catalogue number
102765926
Other identifying number
01 (model number)
#14 (Other number)
Organization
Osborne Computer Corporation (Manufacturer)
Category
Luggable
Credit line
Gift of Alexandra Geddes
Weight
28 (lb)
Dimension
21 1/2w x 9h x 15l (in)
54.61w x 22.86h x 38.1l (cm)
Acquisition number
X7926.2017