Olivetti M290

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The Olivetti M290 was a personal computer based around the Intel 80286 processor. Unlike standard IBM machines, it was designed around a largely passive backplane. The majority of what the modern user would consider 'the computer' was based on an add-on expansion card. This 'processor card' held the CPU, main memory, optional maths co-processor, and keyboard interface. Other expansion cards handled external connectivity such as video, serial, and parallel I/O. The standard M290 shipped with a video card and monitor compatible with the IBM EGA standard. Various storage options were available, ranging from one 5.25" floppy drive, to dual floppy drives plus a 40MB hard disk unit.

This machine was owned and used by Chris Turner who was Chief Engineer at Acorn Computers Ltd.

Manufacturer: Olivetti
Date: 1984

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