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From: mamason@mbunix.mitre.org (Mason)
Newsgroups: comp.sys.laptops
Subject: Re: Amstrad PPC640 Laptop
Message-ID: <114775@linus.mitre.org>
Date: 26 Jul 90 05:20:36 GMT
References: <90206.143139JJL101@psuvm.psu.edu>
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In article <90206.143139JJL101@psuvm.psu.edu> JJL101@psuvm.psu.edu (J.J. Lehett) writes:
>
>      Has anyone had any experience with this laptop?  If so, I would
>appreciate hearing both the pros and the cons concerning this model
>as I have seen it advertised for some good prices as of late.
>

The ppc640 is heavy for a laptop at 11.5# and is at any rate too wide
to be considerd a "laptop" at all.  The screen is not backlit and I
would strongly recommend buying a CGA monitor for serious at home work
with the Amstrad.  If you buy a monitor you'll find that the platform
that Radio Shack sells for the Color Computer and their entry level PC
fits over the Amstrad, just.

You should be aware that the PPC640 uses flashlight batteries and if
your going use it away from AC you'll have to add in the cost of 6
rechargeable C cells and a recharger or it will eat your wallet.

On the positive side of things the width that makes the PPC too big for
a laptop allows for an AT style 101 key keyboard which is nicer than
most true laptops.  The internal modem is a nice feature which would
add a lot to the cost of other portable machines and the included
Mirror II software lets you use the PPC for telecommunications right
out of the box. I bought my PPC for $800 six months ago and considered
that a good deal.  I see Home Shopping is clearing it out at $700,
which makes it a great deal for a home computer with portability.
--
Marc A. Mason