Vintage IBM

On this page you will find tips and tricks while using the 5150

Always make back-up copies of any disks you have. The floppies can be very unreliable.

Unlike today’s computers, if the IBM 5150 PC  freezes up, you can just switch it off, and wait at least 30 sec’s, and turn it back on because it doesn't mind.

Ever wonder why the IBM 5150 keyboard has the lip on top? That’s for resting the open manuals on, try it next time place the bottom edge of the manual on that lip and the the top edge of the manual on the system unit.

Always unplug your IBM 5150 PC when not in use! It doesn’t like power surges or brownouts anymore than any other computer.

Always cover your IBM 5150 PC when not in use. UV light will destroy your IBM 5150 PC yellowing the plastic.

If your IBM 5150 PC does not get used at least once a month turn it on once a month and use it or let it run for a few hours.

Do not cycle your IBM 5150 to much! Don’t turn it on for 15 minutes then turn it off, then back on for an hour two hours later! If you turn it on let it run for at least a few hours to get to normal temp, if you are unsure if you will need to use it again later that day leave it on until the end of the day!

Intel Or AMD 8088 4.77MHz

Early models 16-64K Ram

Later models 64-256K Ram

One or two 160K Or 360K full height floppys

Cassette port

5 internal expansion slots

IBM PC-DOS 1.0

IBM 83 key clicky keyboard

IBM/Epson Dot matrix printer

Early models green monochrome and CGA display for the TV

Later models monochrome, CGA, EGA And VGA display

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