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Simon Personal Communicator

BellSouth IBM Simon · 1994–1995 · candybar

Specifications

Cpu: Vadem VG230 (16-bit, based on an Intel 386SL-class core), 16 MHz
Ram: max: 1 MB · base: 1 MB
Modem: Built-in 2400 baud data/fax modem; cellular via analog AMPS network
Ports: PCMCIA Type II slot · Proprietary handset/headset jack · RJ11 modem jack (via included cradle)
Camera: None
Battery: Removable NiCad battery pack, roughly 1 hour talk time
Display: 4.5" monochrome LCD touchscreen, 160x293, resistive stylus input
Storage: base: 1 MB flash memory for applications and data · options: PCMCIA Type II expansion slot for memory cards
Os Support: latest: Same ROM OS; no software updates were issued · shipped: Custom ROM-based OS with touchscreen app suite (calendar, address book, calculator, notepad, sketchpad, email, fax)
Release Price: $899 with a two-year BellSouth Cellular contract ($1,099 without)

Upgrade paths

storage

Add a PCMCIA memory or fax/data card in the expansion slot · The single PCMCIA Type II slot was the only expansion path; used mostly for extra flash storage or alternate modem cards.

~$100 for period PCMCIA cards

EASY

battery

Swap in a spare OEM NiCad pack · Battery life was under an hour of talk time even new, so road warriors carried spares; NOS packs are scarce today and often dead.

~$50 for a period spare pack

EASY

RAM

Locked at 1 MB, no expansion path · RAM is soldered and fixed; the PCMCIA slot adds storage, not working memory.

n/a

LOCKED