Convergent Technologies of Santa Clara, California introduced the Workslate at the same time as the Tandy Model 100. Although it was about the same size of the Model 100, the Workslate was primarily a spreadsheet machine. No other software could be loaded except some applications which were adaptations of the basic spreadsheet program.

The Workslate used a CMOS version of the old 6800 processor and 16KB of RAM. RAM size couldn't be extended and allowed a limited 720 cells spreadsheet to be filled. The keyboard with circular rubber-keys was hard to use for text entry. However, with its phone book, memo pad, and financial calculator, the Workslate was designed for those who only wanted a business tool and didn't want to learn about computers.

Also built-in were a tape drive able to record and play data's or voice annotations, a 300-baud modem, and a printer port.

The Workslate was first launched in the American Express Christmas catalog, and was sold as a high-tech novelty product. But no one was interested in buying a limited spreadsheet machine for $895. Convergent Technologies planned to sell 200,000 units within a year, but only 5,000 systems were sold in the USA, plus some hundreds in Europe. The product was discontinued in July 1984, and the company lost about $15 million.

CPU: Hitachi 6303 (CMOS version of Motorola 6800)
Memory: 16K RAM, 64K ROM
Display: 16x46 character monochrome LCD
Operating System: Proprietary operating system, spreadsheet, communications including terminal emulation. ROM templates for calendar, memo pad and phone list.
Input/Output: Built-in microcassette drive, serial port, 300 bps modem

We do like the "Do It" key!

Manufacturer: Convergent Technologies
Date: November 1983

This exhibit has a reference ID of CH3509. Please quote this reference ID in any communication with the Centre for Computing History.

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