IBM PC Convertible 5140

IBM USA’s first clamshell “laptop” computer, it was overpriced, didn’t have features other competing machines had, and would get quickly surpassed.
It had an option to have a printer connected directly to the backside of the machine.

eBay Prices

eBay Link – All PC Convertibles
TPG V9 (2024) Spreadsheet
Previous Guides
TPG V7 (2023)
TPG V8 Spreadsheet (2023)

Released      Withdrawn   MTM
1986 04?	1989 08   001
1986 08?	1989 08   002 (022?)
1987 04?	1989 08   033     

System specs

• Machine Type Model – 5140 -xxx (depends on LCD)
• CPU – 4.77MHz 8088
  • Socket – ???
• GPU – ??
  • CGA Graphics
• Soundcard – ??
• Screen
  • 80 x 25 Characters, 640 x 200 in graphic mode
    • Model 1 was Mono & not backlit
    • Model 2 (5140-002) – super twisted neumatic display (green navy blue color)
    • Model 3 was backlit version of Model 2
• Memory –
  • Module type – ??
  • Sizes – 256K to 640K
  • MHz speed – 150Ns, 6.667MHz
    • Upgrade notes –
• Storage Type – None
• Ultrabay Version – N/A
  • Type of drive – 2x Floppy
• Card expansion –
• Weight – 12 pounds
• Power Cord – Proprietary
  • 120V barrel
  • FRU 2682950

Ports & Misc

• Docking or ThunderBolt
• Replicator / MiniDock
• Internal Expansion
• I/O
  • Proprietary Port, with plenty of specialty cables.
  • Printer port

Links

PSREF Official
PSREF Mirror
Wiki(s)
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/IBM_PC_Convertible
HMM
Parts List

Resources

https://www.ardent-tool.com/5140/ A lot of 90’s info here 🙂
https://www.homecomputermuseum.nl/en/collectie/ibm/ibm-5140/
https://vintage-laptops.com/en/ibm-convertible-pc-5140/
https://www.seasip.info/VintagePC/5140.html
http://ohlandl.ipv7.net/5140/5140.html technical info & ish

Keyboard Info
https://deskthority.net/wiki/IBM_PC_Convertible
“The keyboard has 20 Alps SKCL Compact switches and 58 Alps SKCM Brown switches.” – Deskthority

Saucey’s Thoughts

Not my thing, would get a GRiD Compass before this thing (well a lot more others b4 this.)