Research Machines Nimbus AX-286

The Nimbus AX-286 moved Research Machines toward industry-standard business computing while retaining compatibility with key Nimbus software and peripherals. Its 12 MHz Intel 80286, 1MB of memory and PEGA graphics made it a powerful classroom server or professional workstation.

Unlike the original PC-186, the AX followed the IBM PC/AT expansion architecture. A typical system combined a 20MB hard disk, mouse and RM’s enhanced graphics adapter with MS-DOS.

Notable Features

• Combined IBM PC/AT compatibility with support for Nimbus software.
• PEGA graphics could emulate EGA, CGA and Hercules modes while adding a 640x480 Nimbus mode.
• Provided five 16-bit AT slots and one 8-bit slot.

Historical Significance

• Marked RM’s transition from proprietary 16-bit hardware toward mainstream PC standards.
• Shared its chassis and expansion design with the faster VX-386.

Collector’s Notes

• The large desktop case is often found as a network server rather than a standalone classroom workstation.
• Check for the original PEGA display adapter when assessing completeness.

Specifications

Technical Information
Name	Research Machines Nimbus AX-286
Manufacturer	Research Machines
Launched	Thursday, January 1, 1987
Discontinued	Late 1980s
Launch Price	£2,695 for a 20MB hard-disk system
Country	United Kingdom
CPU	Intel 80286 at 12 MHz
Units Sold
Operating System	MS-DOS 3.2; Nimbus-compatible software
I/O	Five 16-bit AT slots, one 8-bit slot, serial, parallel and networking options
Keyboard	Separate AT-style keyboard
Storage	5.25-inch floppy drive and 20MB hard disk in a typical configuration
Sound	PC-compatible programmable sound
Graphics	PEGA: EGA, CGA, Hercules and 640x480 Nimbus modes
Display	RGB monitor
ROM	PC-compatible BIOS with Nimbus support
RAM	1MB standard
CPU Speed	12 MHz