The 6.5-pound AST Premium Exec 383SX/20 uses a 20 megahertz (MHz) processor, 2 megabytes (Mb) of high-performance random access memory (RAM), and a choice of 20Mb, 40Mb, or 60Mb hard drives.

This notebook featured AST's modular architecture, which allowed the central processing unit (CPU) to be upgraded. For instance, you could buy a 286-based notebook and upgrade it to the 386SX/20 CPU without losing your investment in the rest of the machine. Plus, the two internal single in-line memory module (SIMM) sockets, which can accommodate 1 or 4Mb SIMMS, can be upgraded by end users to a total 8Mb of RAM.

AST incorporates the latest flat-panel display technology, using CCFT (cold cathode fluorescent tube) back lighting, which offers as much as three times the life of EL (electro-luminescent) technology. The paper-white VGA screen is very bright, and it supports 32 shades of gray for graphics.

The 82-key keyboard has a solid typing feel and standard key spacing, along with dedicated keys for Home, PgUp, PgDn, and End.

Built-in power-management features help to provide as much as three hours of operation from the NiCad battery. Other notable power-management features include a backup battery that saves system data while the main NiCad is being changed, and a fast recharge that brings the system up to full power in under three hours.

Software in the package includes AST memory-management utilities, Laplink III, and Battery Watch (a program that monitors battery usage). AST also includes its own version of MS DOS 5.0, which will free up more RAM for application
software. A carrying case, angled typing stand, serial interface cable, and documentation are all include a regular 2,400-baud modem and a fax modem.

Our unit has a 40MB hard dtrive and 2MB RAM running MSDOS 3.3
Serial No? USN1032591

Manufacturer: AST Research Inc
Date: 1991

This exhibit has a reference ID of CH2230. Please quote this reference ID in any communication with the Centre for Computing History.

Click on the Image(s) For Detail

	Articles