Amstrad PC5286

The Amstrad PC5286 was the 16 MHz 80286 model in Amstrad’s compact Series 5 range. It combined 1MB of expandable RAM, VGA graphics and a 40MB hard disk with the small desktop case first used for the PC4386SX.

Some PC5286 packages were promoted for family entertainment and included an Amstrad sound card compatible with AdLib and Sound Blaster software, together with games and productivity applications.

Notable Features

• 16 MHz 80286 processor, 1MB RAM and VGA graphics.
• Family packages included an Amstrad sound card compatible with AdLib and Sound Blaster software.
• Bundled configurations could include games and the PC-Works productivity suite.

Historical Significance

• One of the earlier PCs deliberately marketed as a family games and productivity machine.
• Its multimedia ambitions anticipated the later Amstrad Mega PC.

Collectors Notes

• Sound-equipped family packages are especially interesting to collectors.
• Preserve original software, manuals and the matching monitor where possible.

Specifications

Technical Information
Name	Amstrad PC5286
Manufacturer	Amstrad
Launched	Tuesday, January 1, 1991
Discontinued	Early 1990s
Launch Price	Approximately £799
Country	United Kingdom
CPU	Intel 80286 at 16 MHz
Units Sold
Display	VGA monitor support
Software	Selected packages included PC-Works and games
Operating System	MS-DOS 3.3
Keyboard	102-key AT-style keyboard
Sound	Optional Amstrad AdLib and Sound Blaster-compatible sound card
Expansion	Two 16-bit ISA slots
Storage	1.44MB 3.5-inch floppy drive and typically a 40MB hard disk
Graphics	Built-in Chips & Technologies VGA
RAM	1MB, expandable to 16MB
CPU Speed	16 MHz