Sharp X68030 Compact

The Sharp X68030 Compact combined the 25 MHz 68030-based architecture with the smaller single-tower case introduced by the Compact XVI. Released in May 1993, it used dual high-density 3.5-inch floppy drives and included 4MB of RAM.

Available with or without an 80MB SCSI hard disk, it was the last production model in Sharp’s original X68000 computer family.

Notable Features

• 25 MHz MC68EC030 processor and 4MB RAM.
• Compact single-tower case with two 3.5-inch floppy drives.
• Compact-HD configuration included an 80MB SCSI hard disk.

Historical Significance

• The final commercially released model in Sharp’s original X68000 family.
• Combined the fastest standard processor with the smallest production enclosure.

Collector's Notes

• It is exceptionally scarce and commands a substantial collector premium.
• Older 5.25-inch software requires transfer or alternative storage arrangements.

Specifications

Technical Information
Name	Sharp X68030 Compact
Manufacturer	Sharp
Launched	Tuesday, January 5, 1993
Country	Japan
CPU	Motorola MC68EC030 at 25 MHz
Units Sold
Form Factor	Plastic-covered single-board construction kit
Power	External 10.5V AC adaptor
Expansion	Sensor and musical keyboard accessories
Programs	Clock, timer, organ, melodies, telephone-cost calculator and simple games
Sound	Built-in speaker with three-octave melody functions
Keyboard	22-key mechanical hexadecimal and function keypad
Display	LED numeric display
ROM	Approximately 1KB inside the processor
Memory	512 words × 4-bit external RAM plus internal processor RAM
CPU	Fujitsu MB8843 four-bit microcontroller