[net.micro] IBM PCjr

rlp@cbscd5.UUCP (11/03/83)

USA Today (11/2/83) had an article on the new IBM
PC Jr (aka Peanut).  Basically, it comes in a cartridge
model with 64K of memory for $669, and a disk model
with 128K for $1269.  

	Features:
		16-bit micro (8088)
		62 key keyboard communicates with
		main unit vis IR - range 20 ft.
		Plug-in ports for 'game controller',
		light pen, and 'color graphics'.
		Self test mode

	Options:
		50 cps thermal printer	$175
		Joy stick		$ 40(!)
		Modem			$199
		PC DOS 2.1		$ 65
		HomeWord (WP)		$ 75
		HomeBudget jr.		$ 45
		Game Cartridges (4)	$ 35 (each)

R. L. Platt
cbscd5!rlp

wsl@eosp1.UUCP (Warren Lobel) (09/25/84)

I am thinking seriously about purchasing a PCjr and would like some
opinions of those who have already purchased it or have hands-on
experience with the machine.

First let me say that I believe the deal I am getting is pretty good
for a midrange priced computer. I am getting the enhanced Jr, DOS 2.1,
the IBM BASIC Cartridge, the TECMAR jrCaptain 128K add-on board, and
MULTIPLAN for less than $1300 (that includes tax).

My main reasons for considering the JR are:

(1) I don't want to spend an arm and a leg in the case that I don't
    make the most of the computer
(2) I want to try my hand at personal computing
(3) I want some reasonable amount of IBM PC compatibility
(4) I may want to do some productive work (not just games) or
    even try going into business and doing software work for small
    companies on the side
(5) I may try writing some software and selling it

I would like to solicit opinions on whether the JR is the only
machine that fits my criteria and whether there are any better
alternatives to the JR. Also whether the changes IBM introduced to
the JR this summer really overcome the complaints that people had
when the machine was first introduced in NOV '83.

I would appreciate it if any responses could be mailed to me instead
of posted on the net as I am not a regular reader of net.micro.

Thanks a lot in advance to all those nice enough to respond.

				Warren Lobel
				Exxon Office Systems
				Princeton NJ
				(609) 734-9200 ext. 288

stan@hou2f.UUCP (S.GLAZER) (09/26/84)

	Wait awhile.  According to Monday's (9/24/84) Wall Street
Journal, K-Mart and IBM are discussing a marketing arrangement
where K-Mart will sell thru their high volume outlets, the IBM PCjr.
Up to now, only Commador utilized this arrangement.  IBM did not
deny or confirm the story.  K-Mart is quite pleased at the possibility.
They claimed that they can have the units in their stores before the
Christmas shopping spree begins.

				Stan Glazer
				hou2f!stan

seaburg@uiucdcs.UUCP (10/01/84)

With all the new enhancements available (memory expansion, disk
drives, new keyboard) the PCjr does look attractive for what you want.
I've used both PC's and jr's, and I was seriously considering the jr
also.