Olivetti M240

The Olivetti M240, introduced in 1984, was a personal computer that represented a significant step forward in the company’s efforts to compete in the rapidly growing PC market during the 1980s. Below are its specifications and historical significance:

Specifications

• Processor: Intel 8086, clocked at 8 MHz. This was an improvement over the Intel 8088 used in many IBM PCs, offering a full 16-bit data bus for better performance2.

• Memory: The M240 came with 640 KB of RAM, which was considered ample for its time1.

• Storage: It supported high-density floppy drives and could be equipped with hard disk storage, although specific configurations varied1.

• Expansion: The M240 featured a larger case compared to its predecessor (M24), allowing for more ISA expansion slots, which provided flexibility for adding peripherals1.

• Display: It supported VGA graphics through compatible video cards, offering improved graphical capabilities over earlier systems1.

• Operating System: MS-DOS compatibility ensured it could run a wide range of software available for IBM-compatible PCs2.

Significance

1. Enhanced Performance: The use of the Intel 8086 processor at 8 MHz made the M240 faster than many contemporary systems, including IBM PCs using the slower Intel 8088 processor. This positioned Olivetti as a competitive player in the personal computer market23.

2. European Innovation: Olivetti was one of the largest European PC manufacturers in the 1980s and played a key role in advancing personal computing technology. The M240 reflected Olivetti’s commitment to producing high-quality, IBM-compatible machines that catered to business users3.

3. Design and Expandability: The larger case and increased expansion slots made the M240 highly versatile, allowing users to customize their systems with additional hardware like sound cards, modems, or upgraded video cards. This flexibility appealed to tech-savvy users who wanted more control over their machines1.

4. Legacy of Compatibility: By adhering to IBM’s open architecture standards, the M240 contributed to the widespread adoption of IBM-compatible PCs. This compatibility ensured users could access a broad ecosystem of software and peripherals23.

In summary, the Olivetti M240 combined technical improvements with design versatility, reinforcing Olivetti’s reputation as an innovative manufacturer during the golden age of personal computing. It remains a notable example of European contributions to PC history.