AMSTRAD PCW 9256
Technical Specifications
| Processor | Zilog Z80 at 3.5-4MHz. |
|---|---|
| RAM Memory | 256 KB expandable to 512 KB. |
| ROM memory | Does not have a boot ROM. |
| Graphics | 720×256 pixel resolution in graphic mode. 90 columns by 32 lines. |
| Sound | No sound capabilities. |
| Connections | Lacked a standard parallel port from the factory (limitation for other printers). |
| Expansion | Expansion bus for accessories; soldered memory with sockets for expansion. |
| Internal Storage | 3.5″ DD (720 KB) floppy disk drive, PC standard of the era (replaced the older 3″ drives). |
| Monitor | Monochrome CRT (“paper white”), 720×256 resolution (90×32 text). |
| Keyboard | Professional QWERTY-type with 82 keys, including an 8048 microcontroller, PCW 8256/8512 style. |
| Printer | Came with a dot-matrix printer (9-pin) similar to the PCW8256. |
| Price | Spain: 129,900 ptas + VAT. - England: £339 + VAT. |
Information
It was the best-selling word processor in the United Kingdom, improved and redesigned. Featuring 256k of memory and the LocoScript word processing software, it included a 3.5-inch disk drive and a monochrome “paper white” screen. The Amstrad PcW9256 offered the ideal solution for both business and home users.
Open the box, connect a single plug to the mains, attach the keyboard and printer to the display unit, insert the master disk, and you are ready to start word processing.
Thanks to the PcW9256's “easy-to-use” software, word processing doesn't have to be any more complicated than using an electric typewriter; however, as you master more of the basics and skills, you will be able to progress to take advantage of some of the most powerful word processing programs available.
LocoScript will guide you through a series of plain-language menus that will help you create your document exactly as you want it.
Your work can be saved and stored using the built-in disk drive. Each 3.5“ disk stores approximately 720,000 characters; since an average A4 page contains between 1,000 and 1,500 characters, it is a rather tidy alternative to 200 or more folders.
Manuals
The manual cover. Here are some images to verify it.
