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IBM PC AT (Model 5170)

Our IBM PC AT configurations include:

The IBM PC AT came in a variety of its own “sub-models” over a three-year period. Documentation is available below.

5170 Models 68 and 99

Models 68 and 99 were introduced in August 1984:

5170 Model 239

Model 239 was introduced in October 1985:

5170 Models 319 and 339

Models 319 and 339 were introduced in April 1986:

IBM PC AT 5170 Configuration Options

The IBM PC AT 5170 doesn’t have DIP switches like previous models, but it still has a few switches and jumpers.

First and foremost, there is a Display Switch near the battery connector that must be pushed “toward the front of your system unit” if you have a CGA that is your only (or primary) display adapter, or “toward the back of your system unit” if you’re using an MDA as your only (or primary) display.

In PCjs, the 5170 Display Switch is configured with the ChipSet monitor property, which you can set to either “mono” (aka “mda”) or “color” (aka “cga”). Unlike the Model 5150/5160 DIP switches, there is no UI for this switch, so once the machine has been created, it cannot be changed by the user.

Also, there is the Keyboard Inhibit Switch; it defaults to UNLOCKED and stays UNLOCKED, since no UI or configuration property is currently provided.

Finally, there is a Manufacturing Jumper that can be installed, enabling additional diagnostic functions in the ROM; it defaults to UNINSTALLED and stays UNINSTALLED, since no UI or configuration property is currently provided.

The rest of a 5170 machine’s configuration is normally handled through CMOS settings, such as the number and type of floppy diskette drives, which can be configured with the ChipSet floppies property; e.g.:

<chipset id="chipset" model="5170" floppies="[1200,1200]" monitor="color"/>

The number of elements in the array determines the number of drives, and the value of each element determines the type of drive; the value corresponds to the maximum supported diskette size, in Kb:

However, for the 3.5-inch diskette capacities (720 and 1440) to work properly, the machine should also use a “Rev 3” IBM PC AT ROM BIOS and boot with DOS 3.20 or later.

Like the Display Switch, there is no UI for this or any other CMOS setting, so once the machine has been created, it cannot be changed by the user.

IBM PC AT 5170 (Models 68 and 99) Announcement

The following details come from a copy of IBM’s PC AT Announcement Letter, dated August 14, 1984.

The IBM Personal Computer AT is designed for professional applications, office environments, and increased personal productivity. It includes many advanced technology features previously not available in IBM Personal Computers: increased performance, advanced microprocessor, high capacity diskette drives, high capacity fixed disk drives, large memory capacity, and advanced co-processor. The 5170 provides compatibility with existing hardware and software products for the IBM Personal Computer family.

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Performs more than two times faster than current members of the IBM Personal Computer family
  • Based on high-performance Intel 80286 microprocessor, compatible with the IBM Personal Computer family
  • Includes 1.2Mb high-capacity diskette drives
  • Allows 20Mb fixed disk drives
  • Contains a standard combination fixed disk and diskette adapter
  • Provides 512Kb memory capacity on the system board
  • Offers a combination Serial (Asynchronous)/Parallel (Printer) Adapter
  • Allows workstation growth with eight I/O expansion slots
  • Includes an improved keyboard
  • Includes a clock/calendar with battery backup
  • Provides improved security capability with a standard keylock

DESCRIPTION

The 5170 system unit/keyboard includes the following standard features:

  • Advanced high-performance Intel 80286 microprocessor
  • ROM based automatic power on self test of system components
  • ROM based BASIC language interpreter
  • 8086 compatible real address mode
  • Protected virtual address mode
  • 256Kb of memory (Model 68)
  • 512Kb of memory (Model 99)
  • 1.2Mb high capacity diskette drive
  • Diskette interface
  • 20Mb fixed disk drive (Model 99)
  • Fixed disk interface
  • Fixed disk-in-use indicator light (red)
  • Serial/parallel interface (Model 99)
  • System clock/calendar/system configuration storage with battery back-up
  • Sound system
  • Keylock
  • Bi-directional keyboard interface
  • Enhanced keyboard
  • Switchable worldwide power supply
  • Power-on indicator light (green)
  • Eight I/O expansion slots
  • Socket for 80287 math co-processor
  • 24-bit addressing
  • 16-bit data path
  • Seven-channel direct memory access (DMA)
  • 16-level interrupt
  • Three programmable timers

Based on a high performance 16/24-bit Intel 80286 microprocessor, both models of the 5170 are equipped with a high capacity (1.2Mb) diskette drive, enhanced keyboard, ROM based BASIC language, clock/calendar with battery backup, and keylock. Standard memory on Model 68 is 256Kb and on Model 99 is 512Kb. In addition, Model 99 is equipped with a 20Mb fixed disk drive and a serial (asynchronous)/parallel (printer) adapter. Each system can be further expanded through customer setup options. Model 68 memory may be expanded to 512Kb by addition of pluggable memory modules on the system board. Both models may be further expanded to 640Kb with the 128Kb memory option or up to 3Mb with 512Kb memory options.

Additional direct access storage is available with a 20Mb Fixed Disk Drive, a second 1.2Mb High Capacity Diskette Drive, and a Dual-sided (320/360Kb) Diskette Drive. A maximum of two diskette drives and one fixed disk drive, or one diskette drive and two fixed disk drives can be attached to the system unit. These combinations result in direct access storage capacity of up to 41.2Mb.

DOS 3.0 supports the 20Mb Fixed Disk Drive and 1.2Mb High Capacity Diskette Drive in the 5170 system. With DOS 3.0, the 1.2Mb diskette drive will also read single- and dual-sided diskettes formatted at 160/180Kb and 320/360Kb capacity, respectively. The Dual-sided Diskette Drive (320/360Kb) option is available for downward diskette portability with other IBM Personal Computer family members.

The IBM Personal Computer AT is also supported by two other operating systems. Personal Computer Interactive Executive (PC/IX) Version 1.1 will support the IBM Personal Computer AT in compatibility, real address mode. PC/IX will be available in the fourth quarter of 1984. The IBM Personal Computer XENIX* will support the IBM Personal Computer AT in the 80286 protected address mode. IBM Personal Computer XENIX will be available in the first quarter of 1985.

The 5170 contains eight option (feature) slots that support feature cards for additional devices, features, or memory. Six of the slots support either the advanced 16-bit or 8-bit option cards. Two support 8-bit option cards only. However, both models use one 16-bit slot for the standard combination fixed disk and diskette drive adapter. The Model 99 uses one 8-bit slot for the Serial/Parallel Adapter. The result is seven available expansion slots on Model 68 and six on Model 99.

Both models include a world-wide power supply and a temperature-controlled variable speed cooling fan that significantly reduces acoustical noise in most user environments. Both models also include a security keylock, which, when locked by the user, prevents removal of the 5170 cover, initialization of the system, and entry of command/data from the keyboard.

The keyboard is attached to the 5170 via a ten-foot coiled cable, permitting a variety of workspace configurations. The enhanced 84-key keyboard, with an adjustable typing angle, offers commonly used data and word processing functions along with separate typewriter and numeric keypads. Key-location enhancements and mode indicators (Cap Lock, Numeric Lock, Scroll Lock) improve keyboard usability. Special symbols may be accessed with a combination of keys. Depending on the application program, from 10 to 40 special function keys may be supported.

Exploring the IBM Personal Computer AT, a program on a diskette, is supplied with the 5170. It will familiarize a new computer user with the 5170. The program takes 1-1/2 to 2-1/2 hours to complete. There are two versions of the program, monochrome and color. The program is self-loading from the diskette. It contains tutorial information on the keyboard, printer, and disk storage, as well as DOS and text editing. It requires a 5170 with a minimum of one diskette drive, 256Kb of storage, and one display adapter (either monochrome or color).

OPTIONAL FEATURES

256Kb Memory Module Kit (#0202)

This option increases the 5170 Model 68 memory from 256Kb to 512Kb. The kit consists of 18 modules that are plugged into existing sockets on the system board. A maximum of one kit may be installed on Model 68 only. It is required on the Model 68 for installation of #0209 and #0203.

512Kb Memory Expansion Option (#0203)

This option adds memory above 1Mb, in 512Kb increments. Up to five options may be plugged into the I/O expansion slots of the system unit to provide a total of three megabytes of primary storage. Performance characteristics are the same as other 5170 user memory.

The system unit must have at least 512 Kb installed. This option requires one 16-bit expansion slot. Note: This option may not be used for address storage from 512Kb to 640Kb. The memory range from 640Kb to 1Mb is reserved for system functions.

128Kb Memory Expansion Option (#0209)

This option expands the memory from 512Kb to 640Kb. Performance characteristics are the same as other 5170 user memory. Only one 128Kb Memory Expansion Option may be installed on a 512Kb system unit and it requires a 16-bit expansion slot.

20Mb Fixed Disk Drive (#0205)

Two optional fixed disk drives may be installed on Model 68 or one, as a second fixed disk drive, on Model 99, providing a total of 40Mb of fixed disk storage capacity. Space and power are provided in the system unit for this drive(s). All fixed disk or diskette drives use the standard combination fixed disk and diskette drive adapter in the system unit. A dedicated landing zone for the read/write heads is available to protect the file and its contents during shipping, movement, or storage. Increased performance of 40 ms average access time is possible from the quasi-closed loop servo positioning system utilized in the drive. The number of fixed disk drives and diskette drives must not exceed three. No more than two fixed disk drives can be installed in a system unit.

CHARACTERISTICS:

  • 20Mb of storage
  • 512 bytes per sector
  • 17 sectors per track
  • 615 tracks per surface (cylinders)
  • 40 ms average access time
  • four surfaces
  • 3573 RPM
  • 5M bit per second transfer rate
  • Dimensions:
    • Height 82.55 mm (3.25 inches)
    • Width 154.3 mm (6.1 inches)
    • Depth 203.2 mm (8.0 inches)
    • Weight 2.9 Kg (6.4 lbs.)

High Capacity Diskette Drive (#0206)

This is a half-high, 5-1/4-inch, dual-sided drive with 1.2Mb storage capacity. Space and power have been provided in the system unit for up to two drives. The drive is fully self-contained and consists of a spindle drive system, a read positioning system and a read/write/erase system.

One of these drives is standard in both models. An optional second drive (#0206) may be installed in the system unit directly under the first if the space is not occupied by another disk or diskette drive. Both drives use the standard fixed disk and diskette drive adapter in the system unit.

The drive uses the new 96-TPI, high density media. In addition, it will read or write 48-TPI, single- or dual-sided media written for the IBM PCjr, IBM Personal Computer, IBM Personal Computer XT, and IBM Portable Personal Computer, giving a high level of compatibility with existing applications. However, once the 48-TPI media has been written in this drive, it may only be readable on a high capacity diskette drive.

CHARACTERISTICS:

  • 1.2Mb storage
  • 512 bytes per sector
  • 15 sectors per track
  • 96 tracks per inch
  • Two sides
  • 80 tracks per side
  • 360 RPM
  • Supports 300 and 500 bits/sec data transfer rate
  • 94 ms average access time in 96-TPI mode
  • Dimensions:
    • Height 42.9 mm (1.7 inches)
    • Width 154.3 mm (6.1 inches)
    • Depth 203.2 mm (8.0 inches)
    • Weight: 1.6 Kg (3.5 lbs.)

Dual-sided Diskette Drive (#0207)

This diskette drive permits the exchange of 320/360Kb diskette media between the Personal Computer AT, to the IBM Personal Computer, the IBM Personal Computer XT, the IBM Portable Personal Computer, and the IBM PCjr. It is a half-high, 5-1/4-inch, dual-sided drive with a 320/360Kb storage capacity. Space and power for one drive have been provided in the system unit. The drive is fully self-contained and consists of a spindle drive system, a read positioning system, and a read/write/erase system.

This drive is available for both 5170 models. It is installed in the system unit directly under the standard high capacity diskette drive if the space is not occupied by another fixed disk or diskette drive. This drive uses the standard fixed disk and diskette drive adapter in the system unit.

CHARACTERISTICS:

  • 320/360Kb of storage
  • 512 bytes per sector
  • 8/9 sectors per track
  • Two sides
  • 91 ms average access time
  • 40 tracks per surface
  • 48 tracks per inch
  • 300 RPM
  • Transfer rate of 250K bits/second
  • Dimensions:
    • Height 42.9 mm (1.7 inches)
    • Width 154.3 mm (6.1 inches)
    • Depth 203.2 mm (8.0 inches)
    • Weight: 1.6 Kg (3.5 lbs.)

Math Co-Processor (#0211)

This option is a high performance numeric 80287 processor extension with floating point, extended integer, and BCD data types, compatible with the Intel 8087 Math Co-Processor. When installed, the system fully conforms to the proposed IEEE Floating Point Standard and is an excellent facility for high-performance numeric processing. Only one 80287 can be installed in a system unit.

Serial/Parallel Adapter (#0215)

This option provides a serial port and a parallel port. It occupies only one expansion slot of either type. The serial portion is fully programmable and supports asynchronous communications from 50 to 9600 baud. The back of the adapter has a nine-pin D-shell connector that is classified as an RS232-C port. When the optional 10-foot Serial Adapter Cable (#0217) or 10-inch Serial Adapter Connector (#0242) is connected to the adapter, the 25-pin end of the cable or connector has all the signals of a standard EIA RS232-C interface. The parallel portion of the adapter provides the ability to attach various devices that accept eight bits of parallel data. The parallel port is provided by a 25-pin, D-shell connector. One or two Serial/Parallel Adapters may be installed in either model. Note: This adapter does not support current loop operation. The 5218 Printer is not supported.

Prototype Adapter (#0220)

This adapter is 4.8 inches high by 13.12 inches long and plugs into any system unit expansion slot except 1 or 7. Two card edge tabs, one 2 by 31 positions and one 2 by 18 positions, provide all system control signals and voltages. No components are shipped with this card.

The adapter contains a voltage bus (+5 Vdc) and a ground bus (0 Vdc). Each bus borders the adapter with the ground bus on the component side and the voltage bus on on the pin side. A system interface (wiring only) is also provided with a space for a jumper to specify whether the device has an 8- or a 16-bit data bus. This adapter also accommodates a D-shell connector from 9 to 37 positions. A recommended system interface logic diagram is available along with a list of recommended components to be used to interface custom logic to the 5170. Up to five Prototype Adapters can be installed in a system unit. Each requires a 16-bit expansion slot.

Binary Synchronous Communications Adapter (#1204)

The BSC Adapter provides an EIA RS232-C interface. It is compatible with the IBM Personal Computer, the Portable Personal Computer, and the Personal Computer XT. A maximum of two BSC Adapters may be installed. Only one BSC Adapter may be installed if an SDLC Adapter is installed.

SDLC Communications Adapter (#1205)

The SDLC Communications Adapter provides an EIA RS232-C interface. It is compatible with the IBM Personal Computer, the Portable Personal Computer, and the Personal Computer XT. Only one SDLC Adapter may be installed.

Floor Standing Enclosure (#0218)

This optional enclosure is available to customers who desire to remove their system unit from the work surface. With the system unit mounted vertically in the floor standing enclosure, only the essential parts of the system such as the display and keyboard need to be on the work surface. The unit may be positioned left or right of the workspace or under the workspace.

Display Stand (#0216)

The display stand is available for the IBM 5151 Monochrome Display Model 1 and IBM 5153 Color Display Model 1. It can be placed under the display to allow the customer to tilt and/or swivel the display for comfortable viewing.

PUBLICATIONS

Each system will be shipped with three manuals:

  • IBM Personal Computer AT Installation and Setup Manual (#2491)
  • IBM Personal Computer AT Guide to Operations (#2241)
  • IBM Personal Computer Basic Reference Manual Version 3.0 (#1132)

The following are available for purchase:

  • IBM Personal Computer AT Technical Reference Manual (#2243)
  • IBM Personal Computer AT Hardware Maintenance and Service Manual (#2242)

Documents

[GitHub Source]