Intel dominates show

The highlights of Spring Comdex 1989 were new Intel 80386-based systems, newer and faster graphics, new releases of software packages, and more fax machines, modems and laser printers. Intel dominated the show. Intel, IBM and Microsoft are urging adoption of 80386 systems and want their customers to move toward an integrated office environment containing i386-based systems with i486 file servers, which be available in late 1989. Intel also introduced a low-current 80386 chip for laptops and a faster 80386SX chip. The product of the show was the Sal Perez Keestick, an inexpensive add-on device that turns any keypad with cursor keys into a joystick. Atari announced for future delivery the $400 Portfolio, a hand-held DOS-compatible computer with a 4.92MHz Intel 80C88 CPU. American Megatrends Inc showed its 33-MHz 80386 motherboard while announcing plans for a 80486-based board.