![](https://coimages.sciencemuseumgroup.org.uk/132/140/large_thumbnail_cd0642_036_110125_rmg_1999_22_laboratory_coat.jpg)
Osborne 1 Portable Computer
- Made:
- 1981-1983 in United States
- maker:
- Osborne Computer Corporation
![Osborne 1 portable computer
Weighing 10](https://coimages.sciencemuseumgroup.org.uk/181/389/small_thumbnail_100901_4.jpg)
![Osborne 1 portable computer
Osborne 1 portable computer](https://coimages.sciencemuseumgroup.org.uk/168/574/small_thumbnail_2008_5018.jpg)
Osborne 1 portable computer. Produced in 1981 by the Osborne Computer Corporation, the Osborne 1 is considered by many to be the first true portable computer, CPU is a Zilog Z80 @ 4.0 MHz, 64K RAM, built-in 5" monitor with 53 X 24 text, one parallel port / IEEE-488, one modem / serial port, dual 5-1/4 inch, 91K drives, CP/M operating system. Serial number A15584. With continental 3 pin plug.
Weighing 10.7kg the Osborne 1 was the first system designed to be transported between the office and the home and was a precursor to the modern laptop. The computer cost $1795 when it was released in April 1981 and was advertised as the only computer that would fit under the seat on an aeroplane. The computer came with a full-sized keyboard, 64K memory, two disk drives, and software for word-processing and accounting.
Details
- Category:
- Computing & Data Processing
- Object Number:
- 2008-5018
- Materials:
- plastic (unidentified), leather and electronic components
- Measurements:
-
overall: 230 mm x 500 mm x 380 mm, 1200g
- type:
- personal computer
- credit:
- The National Media Museum, Bradford