Term of the Moment
de facto standard
Definition: Osborne 1
The first portable computer, developed by Adam Osborne and introduced in 1981. Floppy disk based with 64K of memory, the Osborne 1 used the CP/M operating system and a modified version of the WordStar word processor that would display only 40 characters at a time across its tiny 4.5" CRT. It cost $1,795, which was very inexpensive for a computer of that era. Weighing in at nearly 30 pounds and requiring AC power, the Osborne was really more "transportable" than a true portable. See CPM.
The Osborne 1
Get Ahead with an Osborne
We might chuckle at this today compared to our ultra-sleek laptops, but, for its time, the Osborne 1 was breakthrough technology. Adam Osborne started a revolution. (Equipment courtesy of Alfred J. Young.)
Aimed at the rising professional, this ad highlighted the advantage of having a personal computer at one's side. Hardly a politically correct ad in today's world; nevertheless, it definitely took a rather strong person to carry the machine around.