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.