Epson Equity LT

The Epson Equity LT, released in 1989, was a portable IBM-compatible computer designed for business and professional users. It featured a NEC V30 processor, running at 4.77 or 10 MHz, with 640KB of RAM and 16KB of ROM. The system included a super-twisted nemantic (STN) backlit LCD, a parallel and serial port, and an optional 300/1200 baud modem card. Storage options included a 3.5-inch floppy drive and a 20MB hard disk, making it a versatile machine for mobile computing. The Equity LT could operate on AC power or a 9.6V NiCad rechargeable battery, providing flexibility for users on the go. It came bundled with MS-DOS 3.2, GW-BASIC, and utility software, ensuring compatibility with standard PC applications.

A super-twisted nematic (STN) LCD is a type of liquid crystal display that improves upon traditional twisted nematic (TN) LCDs by twisting the liquid crystal molecules at a much greater angle—typically between 180 and 270 degrees. This increased twist allows for sharper images, better contrast, and more efficient passive-matrix addressing, making it possible to control more pixels without complex circuitry. STN displays were widely used in portable computers, handheld devices, and early mobile phones, but they were eventually replaced by thin-film transistor (TFT) LCDs, which offer superior image quality and faster response times.

I bought this computer in a local North Texas estate auction in early 2025.