IBM Corp is expected to launch new PS/2 Models 56 and 57 today, PC Week reports: the new models will include local-bus graphics and IBM’s clock-tripling 25MHz/75MHz 486SLC3 processor: later this year, IBM is expected to relaunch the PS/2 brand with new Micro Channel systems made from fewer proprietary components and using some parts also used in ValuePoints such as frames, covers, video and power supplies – by using standard controllers and other off-the-shelf parts, the company should be able to increase the PS/2 supply and shorten elongated product cycles; the company is expected to launch a 100MHz Pentium-based PS/2 in the second half of this year, and an integrated network adaptor that supports both Token-Ring and Ethernet is expected; revamped Models 76 and 77 will use IBM-made 100MHz Blue Lightning 486 chips, but they won’t be ready until June or July; pricing for the new PS/2 Model 56 with three Micro Channel slots is expected to start at $2,000; the 57, with five slots, at $2,200.
