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Debuting on January 7, 1975, the IBM System/32 was designed
specifically to meet the needs of small businesses. It is
the first system to incorporate hardware and comprehensive
application software. The System/32 was supported by Industry
Application Programs for the construction, wholesale paper
and office products, wholesale food, hospital, and membership
organizations and association industries. Following the System/32
announcement, more than 2,000 inquiries poured in from across
the United States for information on the new product.
The desk-sized system, together with an Industry Application
Program for membership organizations, rented for less than
$1,000 a month. The System/32 could be operated by a clerk
after minimum training, using Industry Application Programs
tailored by IBM.
The system consisted of a central processing unit (IBM 5320),
memory, disk storage, a diskette data read/write facility,
and an operator console with visual display screen, keyboard
and print capability -- all in a single desk-sized unit.
IBM's manufacturing and development site in Rochester, Minn.,
developed and manufactured the System/32. The facility shipped
20 systems the first month after it was announced. By May
1978, the System/32 had surpassed the IBM System/3 as the
most installed IBM computer.
The System/32 was withdrawn from marketing on October 17,
1984.
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