IBM PCjr 4860

The IBM PCjr adapted PC technology for homes with enhanced colour graphics, three-voice sound, cartridge slots and a wireless keyboard. Its limited compatibility and criticised original keyboard hurt sales.

Although commercially unsuccessful, its graphics and sound architecture strongly influenced the successful Tandy 1000 family.

Notable Features

• Two ROM-cartridge slots provided instant software loading.
• The infrared keyboard removed the cable but initially used unpopular chiclet keys.

Historical Significance

• Although commercially unsuccessful, its graphics and sound architecture strongly influenced the successful Tandy 1000 family.

Collector’s Notes

• Original IBM documentation, matching display and keyboard, and an unmodified configuration add historical context.
• Memory, storage, displays and expansion hardware should be documented because configurations often changed during a system’s working life.

Specifications

Technical Information
Name	IBM PCjr 4860
Manufacturer	IBM
Launched	Tuesday, November 1, 1983
Discontinued	1985
Launch Price	$669 entry configuration
Country	United States
CPU	Intel 8088 at 4.77 MHz
Units Sold
Form Factor	Compact home desktop computer
Power	External power supply
Networking	Optional built-in modem
Operating System	IBM PC DOS and cartridge software
Expansion / I/O	Sidecar expansion, joystick, serial, modem, composite, RF and RGB
Keyboard	Wireless infrared chiclet keyboard; later improved keyboard
Storage	5.25-inch floppy drive and two front cartridge slots
Sound	Texas Instruments SN76496 three-voice sound plus noise
Colours	16-colour palette
Graphics	Enhanced CGA-derived graphics up to 640 x 200
Display	External television or RGB/composite monitor
ROM	PCjr BIOS and Cartridge BASIC
RAM	64KB or 128KB initially; expandable
CPU Speed	4.77 MHz