Original Research Machines (RM) Nimbus PC-386 desktop computer dating from 1990. This is a genuine vintage RM system fitted with a 16MHz Intel 386SX processor, 4MB RAM, original IBM 60MB hard drive and original 3.5” floppy drive.

I originally intended to restore this machine to full working order and have spent a considerable amount of time fault-finding it. Unfortunately, I’ve decided to move it on as I have too many other restoration projects. It would make an excellent project for an RM collector or vintage PC enthusiast.

Condition

The machine powers up correctly and completes the power-on self-test.

During my testing I have confirmed the following:

* Powers on correctly.
* Stable video output.
* 640KB conventional RAM passes POST.
* 4096KB extended RAM passes POST.
* Original IBM 60MB hard drive spins up.
* Original floppy drive operates and attempts to read disks.
* Internal ribbon cables have been checked and reseated.
* Floppy drive mechanism has been inspected internally.
* CMOS battery is dead and requires replacement.

Current Fault

On startup the BIOS reports:

* System battery is dead – Replace Battery
* Invalid Chipset Parameters
* Please run the setup program

After pressing F1, the machine attempts to boot from the floppy drive.

I downloaded the RM M-Series PSETUP setup/reference disk from the RM archive, extracted the floppy image correctly and wrote it sector-for-sector to a floppy disk using a USB floppy drive. The written disk was verified against the downloaded image to ensure it was an exact copy.

Despite this, the machine displays:

“Non-System disk or disk error”

At this point I decided not to continue the restoration.

The machine may simply require the correct setup/reference disk for this specific CHIPS/250 BIOS version, or there may be another underlying hardware fault. I cannot determine which, so the computer is being sold as a restoration project.

Ethernet Expansion Board

The machine originally contained an Ethernet expansion board.

During fault-finding, it appeared that the system would not progress correctly with this board installed. After removing the card, the machine successfully completed POST and proceeded to the floppy boot stage.

The Ethernet expansion board has been removed from the computer but IS INCLUDED in the sale, allowing the new owner to investigate, repair or reinstall it if desired.

Keyboards

The original RM Tulip keyboard is included but does not appear to function correctly.

A second compatible keyboard is also included with the sale. I have not carried out extensive testing on this keyboard.

Mouse

An original RM Nimbus two-button mouse is included.

However, it has an incorrect connector fitted, so I have been unable to connect or test it with this machine. It is included as found and may be useful to a collector or for parts.

Included in the Sale

* RM Nimbus PC-386 system unit
* Original IBM 60MB hard drive
* Original 3.5” floppy drive
* Original RM Tulip keyboard (non-working)
* Spare compatible keyboard
* Original RM Nimbus mouse (incorrect connector fitted, untested)
* Ethernet expansion board (removed during testing but included)
* Microsoft Windows 3.1 floppy disk set
* Various original and copied floppy disks shown in the photographs
* Everything shown in the photographs is included.

Cosmetic Condition

Overall good cosmetic condition for a machine of this age, with the expected marks, light yellowing and signs of normal use and storage. Please examine all photographs carefully as they form part of the description.

Important

This computer is being sold strictly as spares or repairs / restoration project.

It is not being sold as a fully working machine. Everything described above is based solely on my own testing, and no guarantees are given beyond what has been stated.

A rare opportunity to acquire an increasingly hard-to-find RM Nimbus PC-386 complete with many original components, expansion hardware, keyboards, mouse and a large collection of software and floppy disks for restoration or preservation.

IMPORTANT COLLECTION / POSTAGE INFORMATION

Collection is strongly recommended due to the size, weight and age of this vintage system. This helps minimise the risk of damage in transit.

If you choose postage, the quoted shipping cost reflects the computer being sent in two separate EVRi parcels:

* Parcel 1: Monitor (packed separately)
* Parcel 2: System unit, keyboards, mouse, expansion card, floppy disks and all remaining accessories

Both packages will be carefully packaged with plenty of protective materials. However, due to the age and fragility of vintage computer equipment, all courier deliveries are undertaken at the buyer’s risk. Collection is therefore the preferred option.