"Real Computers" (was Re: Trivia Question)

From: Tony Duell <ard_at_p850ug1.demon.co.uk>
Date: Sun Feb 23 13:57:30 2003

> Fred Cisin (XenoSoft) wrote:
> > The "PC Technical Reference Manual" was cheap, and contained
> > complete schematics and source code for the BIOS. Third party
> > "disassemblies" being sold by third parties are NOT comparable!
> It's interesting you mentioned the IBM PC TRM - is that the same thing as
> the so-called "purple book" I've read so much about (mostly in long-since

Yes... In fact I have a mini-purple-wall :-). The Techrefs for :

PC
PC/XT and PortablePC
PC/AT (2 volumes)
Options and Adapters (2 volumes)
Scientific Options and Adapters (I've also put the EGA stuff in that binder)
PCjr
PS/2 Hardware (this one contains no schematics, but it does have pinouts,
and it was given to me so I am not moaning).

Initially the PC techref contained the info on the options (monitors,
printers, drives) and adapters (expansion cards). Later on, the 'system'
TechRefs covered the motherboard and keyboard only, there were separate
manuals for the options and adapters. A basic 2-volume set + supplements.

> deceased webpages Google have cached)? I'm trying to track down a copy of
> the original IBM PC Technical Reference and any updates to it (3.5" drive
> support in the BIOS, etc). Anyone got a copy they want to sell?

About 8 years ago, I was in the same position. I couldn't find anyone who
had a 'spare' copy (most likely those who have it still want it -- for
good reasons) so I did what I should have done in the first place. I
phoned IBM. It was out of print, but they still had it in stock. Of
course I bought all the manuals I wanted. Not cheap, but not rediculously
expensive (I think about \pounds 50 for each volume) either.

-tony
Received on Sun Feb 23 2003 - 13:57:30 GMT