Description
IBM PC Convertible 5140 8088 4.7MHz 512K RAM Dual 720K FDD Laptop For Parts
The IBM PC Convertible (Model 5140) is IBM's first laptop computer, introduced in 1986 as the company's entry into portable personal computing. It is a clamshell design with an integrated full-travel keyboard, an LCD display, and dual built-in 3.5-inch floppy drives — notable for being among the first mainstream computers to adopt the 3.5-inch floppy format. This unit powers on but shuts off after approximately 5 seconds and is being sold AS-IS for parts or repair.
Specifications & What's Included
- Model: IBM PC Convertible, Model No. 5140
- CPU: Intel 8088, 4.7 MHz
- RAM: 512K
- Storage: Dual 3.5-inch 720K floppy disk drives
- Display: Integrated LCD panel (built-in)
- Bus: 8-bit IBM PC bus
- Certifications: CSA certified (visible on bottom label)
- Copyright/manufacture date: 1981, 1986 IBM Corp. (per bottom label)
- Rear I/O: Parallel port visible; additional ports behind panel
- Form factor: Clamshell laptop/portable
- Condition: Powers on, shuts off after approximately 5 seconds — sold AS-IS, for parts or repair only
Applications
The IBM PC Convertible 5140 was IBM's answer to the growing portable computer market of the mid-1980s. Designed for business travelers and field workers who needed PC compatibility away from a desk, it ran IBM PC-compatible software under DOS and was compatible with the broader IBM PC software ecosystem of the era. The 5140 was historically significant as one of the first IBM machines to ship with 3.5-inch floppy drives, helping establish that format as the industry standard over the older 5.25-inch diskette. Today the IBM PC Convertible is a sought-after vintage computing collectible — it represents a pivotal moment in IBM's product history and in the transition from luggable transportable computers to true laptop form factors. Working examples are increasingly scarce, and non-working units are valued by collectors and restorers for parts, display, and repair projects.
This IBM PC Convertible 5140 laptop powers on but shuts off after approximately 5 seconds and is being sold AS-IS for parts or repair. The cause of the shutdown has not been diagnosed. The unit has not been further tested and is not guaranteed functional. The case appears to be in good cosmetic shape with normal yellowing and surface wear typical for a machine of this era. Both 3.5-inch floppy drives are present and visible. Please review all photos carefully for a full picture of cosmetic condition. Please view our photo set and contact us if you have any questions.
Warranty Information
Additional Information
Brand: |
IBM |
Model: |
5140 |
MPN: |
5140 |
Type: |
Vintage Laptop / Portable Computer |
SKU: |
25188 |
Product Name: |
IBM PC Convertible |
Processor: |
Intel 8088, 4.7 MHz |
RAM: |
512K |
Storage: |
Dual 720K 3.5-inch Floppy Disk Drives |
Display: |
Integrated LCD |
Form Factor: |
Clamshell Laptop / Portable |
Seller Notes: |
Unit only — no AC adapter, software, or accessories confirmed included. |
Country/Region of Manufacture: |
United States |
Compatible With: |
IBM PC Convertible 5140 accessories and expansion modules |
Year Introduced: |
1986 |
Bus Type: |
IBM PC Bus (8-bit) |
Condition Notes: |
This IBM PC Convertible 5140 laptop powers on but shuts off after ~5 seconds. Sold AS-IS for parts or repair only — not guaranteed functional. Good cosmetic condition with normal age-related yellowing. |
California Prop 65 Warning: |
WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including lead and lead compounds, and DEHP (a phthalate), which are known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. Go to P65Warnings.ca.gov |