IBM PS/2

IBM PS/2

[Vin110]

The IBM PS/2, introduced in 1987, was a pivotal yet paradoxical system in computing history: technologically advanced but commercially constrained designed to reclaim IBM’s dominance by introducing proprietary Micro Channel Architecture (MCA) and establishing new hardware standards. Despite limited consumer adoption due to high costs and incompatibility with existing PC clones, the PS/2 left an enduring legacy through innovations like VGA graphics, 72-pin SIMMs, and the PS/2 keyboard/mouse ports, many of which became industry standards. It found strong traction in corporate and academic environments, where its reliability and IBM’s support made it a trusted platform.

• Manufacturer: International Business Machines (IBM)
• Type: Desktop Personal Computer (PC)
• Release Date: 1987
• Cost at release: USD $1,695 (CAD $5,300 adjusted for inflation)
• Cost with peripherals: USD $10,995 (CAD $34,500 adjusted for inflation)
• MIPS: 5-7

Hardware Specifications

• CPU: Intel 80286 (10 MHz) or Intel 80386 (16-20 MHz) in higher-end models
• Coprocessor: Optional Intel 80287 (for 80286 models) or 80387 math coprocessor socket for 80386 models
• Bus: Micro Channel Architecture (MCA) 16 or 32-bit depending on model
• RAM: Typically from 1 MB up to 2-8 MB on system board; expandable to 16 MB via SIMM modules (72-pin SIMM memory)
• ROM: 128 KB
• Graphics: VGA (Video Graphics Array) standard with 640×480 resolution in 16 colors or 320×200 in 256 colors
• Storage: 3.5-inch floppy disk drive (1.44 MB), hard drives from 20 MB up to 120 MB depending on model and options
• Expansion slots: 3-5 slots (more limited on MCA compared to ISA bus)
• Ports: PS/2 keyboard, PS/2 mouse, serial, parallel, VGA video out
• Power supply: Auto-sensing 110-240 VAC
• Weight: Approximate range 9.5 kg to 10.9 kg (21 to 24 lbs) for desktop models; portable models varied

Operating System & Programming Languages 

• Operating System: IBM PC DOS 3.3

• Supported Languages:
  • IBM Personal Computer BASIC (built-in interpreter on some models)
  • Assembly language (x86 machine code)
  • C and C++ (with IBM and other vendors’ compilers)
  • Pascal
  • Fortran
  • COBOL
  • Other languages supported under DOS, OS/2, or AIX such as RPG and PL/I

Notables

• Introduced standards: first mainstream use of VGA video, the 3.5″ 1.44 MB floppy as a standard, and 72‑pin SIMM memory modules.
• Micro Channel Architecture (MCA): IBM’s proprietary 32‑bit bus intended as a technical and licensing pivot to regain control of the PC market.
• “PS/2 It!” marketing: high‑profile ad campaign (TV spots including MAS*H cast and prime‑time commercials) that pushed the PS/2 brand heavily in 1987–88.
• Firsts and unusuals: early plug‑and‑play–like automatic device configuration via MCA, and shipping OS/2 (the PS/2’s intended OS partner) alongside the hardware effort.
• Nicknames and reputation: sometimes jokingly called “Proprietary System/2” or “Micro Channel mammoth” by enthusiasts and press due to MCA and heavy corporate
• Market impact: sold ~3 million units in the first 18 months but ultimately accelerated industry standardization around competing, cheaper standards (EISA, enhanced ISA and later PCI) rather than MCA.
• Technological leadership (many lasting standards) plus a cautionary tale about proprietary platforms and market dynamics

Media

Donated by: Andrew Miles