FM Towns:Model List

FM Towns Computer came in multiple models over its lifetime. The most iconic is the tower models.

It should be noted all parts can be interchanged from other models in the series of computers it belongs in. For example, the motherboard from a 2F can be used in a 1H model. Some models were educational models that were placed in schools and are identical to their retail counterpart in the series.

Towers
To tell the difference between the tower models is quite easy. Pay attention to the buttons on the front panel of the computer. They're different for the 4 different tower-types.

All towers come stock with a 386DX CPU clocked at 16mhz.

Generation 1 Tower Models
There is no SCSI connector on this computer and it requires a special SCSI add-on card to use a hard drive/hard drive emulator. The model number for the SCSI card is FMT-121.

Generation 2 Tower Models
Generation 2 and onward have integrated SCSI controller and connector. They also have the optional ability to have an internal HDD which is not recommended.

Generation 3 Tower Models
Generation 3 towers appear to be the most widespread models specifically the 20F model. The CPU for Generation 3 and onward are soldered and require expert-level desoldering to perform an upgrade.

Generation 4 Tower Models
Generation 4 Towers are the best models introducing FAST mode for software that supported it.

All-In-Ones
The U* models had the CRT built into them similar to the very old Mac Classic Computers. You can even use it as a CRT for other FMT and PC98 computers. '''It is extremely difficult to disassemble an all-in-one model for maintenance or troubleshooting purposes. It is strongly recommended to recap the PSU cards for the Computer and the CRT sections as fast as possible''' Drive can also be repaired a lot easier than many desktops and towers albeit extremely painful to access. It should also be noted that SCSI ID 0 can't be accessed by U* series due to BIOS limitations and the HDD must be Device 1-8 instead. U* series also cannot shutdown via TownsOS and must be shut off by the actual power button. There is a message similar to Windows 95 where it says "It's now safe to turn off the Computer".

UX series
Very first All-in-one computer. Has the same CPU as Marty except for a 32bit BUS instead of the 16bit one in Marty.

UG Series
CPU Clocked at 20mhz but still 386SX. Has FAST mode.

UR Series
CPU is 486SX at 20mhz and also has FAST mode.

Desktops
All Desktops have 3 Mode FDD and usually come with 2 FDD unless noted. All Desktops have 4 expansion slots with 1 for Video and 3 for generic cards unless noted. All Desktops have FAST mode built in as an option.

HG Series
Very first desktops. CPU is 386DX at 20mhz.

HR Series
Not the same as HG-type desktops but looks similar. CPU is 486SX at 20mhz

ME Series
CPU is 486SX at 25mhz. RAM timing requirement is 80ns or less. Unlike most desktops, this model has only 3 expansion slots and therefore the CPU upgrade cards must be shorter.

MA/MX Series
CPU is 486SX at 33mhz for MA/SA series and 66mhz for MX series. RAM timing requirement is 80ns or less.

MF Series
CPU is 486SX at 33mhz for MF series. RAM timing requirement is 80ns or less. Only 3 expansion slots and takes shorter CPU upgrade cards.

Examine the drive letters on the front.

EA Series
RAM timing requirement is 80ns or less. Only 3 expansion slots and takes shorter CPU upgrade cards. Very easy upgrade path for floppy emulators as it's plug and play. Internally converts all video and outputs 31khz with a standard VGA connector. Some models require CPU upgrade card to be present as the CPU footprint on the motherboard is empty.

HA Series
The last Desktops. Has two internal "Towns SCSI" ports inside as well as the outer SCSI port. CD Drive is an extremely unreliable variant. RAM memory timing must be 60ns. Floppy emulator upgrade also easy to perform. EXT FDD Port is removed in these models as well. Has a standard VGA port and performs internal video conversion. Outputs 31khz. You can remove the front cover and the plastic molding is "ready" to add a Magneto Optical Drive.

The Laptop
There was one Laptop made by Fujitsu distributed to schools making it quite rare and difficult to find since it is only an educational model. It has 4MB RAM integrated capable of accepting 1 32MB module. Maximum RAM is 36MB. cPU is 486DX2 at 66mhz comes standard in a flat chip package and cannot be upgraded with any CPU cards. It is possible to upgrade to a 5x86 CPU with extremely precise soldering/desoldering skills. Comes stock with a 530MB HDD and 1 FDD. Commonly has screen problems if you can even find it for sale. It is generally accepted to be better as a collector's piece and not for general gaming use.

References and other information

 * Very good page by Hota-san
 * Very good page by Ahirudanna-san
 * Very good page by Labo-san
 * Deunan's FMT Model summary