Amstrad ALT-286

Released in 1990, the Amstrad ALT-286 was a substantial portable PC built around a 16 MHz Intel 80286 processor. Its backlit 640 × 480 VGA LCD, full keyboard, 1MB of RAM, floppy drive and internal hard disk offered desktop-class DOS computing in a transportable case.

The machine could accept an optional removable battery, but at around 7kg it was mainly suited to professionals moving between workplaces. A distinctive display hinge mounted at the right side gave the ALT range an immediately recognizable appearance.

Notable Features

• 16 MHz Intel 80286 processor
• Backlit 640 × 480 VGA LCD with brightness and contrast controls
• Internal hard disk and 3.5-inch floppy drive
• Full-size keyboard and desktop-style ports
• Optional removable rechargeable battery

Historical Significance

• One of Amstrad’s first conventional clamshell portable PCs
• Shared its distinctive chassis with the faster ALT-386SX
• Offered mobile DOS computing at a time when laptops remained expensive

Collectors Notes

• Original rechargeable batteries are usually exhausted and may leak
• LCD response and backlight condition should be checked
• Hard disks and proprietary power supplies require careful assessment
• At roughly 7kg it is costly to ship and vulnerable to hinge damage

Specifications

Technical Information
Name	Amstrad ALT-286
Manufacturer	Amstrad
Launched	Monday, January 1, 1990
Discontinued	Early 1990s
Launch Price	Approximately £1,600
Country	United Kingdom
CPU	Intel 80286
Units Sold
Power	Mains operation or optional removable rechargeable battery
Ports	Centronics parallel, two serial ports and mouse support
Expansion	Internal ISA expansion and external VGA connection
Storage	3.5-inch floppy drive and typically a 20MB hard disk
Sound	Internal PC speaker
Operating System	MS-DOS
RAM	1MB, expandable to approximately 4MB
Graphics	Cirrus Logic VGA with external-monitor output
Display	640 × 480 backlit monochrome VGA LCD
CPU Speed	16 MHz