Kai Kaltenbach wrote:
  Does anyone know what the difference is between
 an H88 and H89?  Externally, they look identical except for the badging.
 Are they software compatible? 
The H88 was a cassette-based Z-80 system.  I got one by upgrading an
H-19 terminal. (I believe you could also buy it as a system.)  When you
upgraded, you replaced the H-19 "badge" with an H-88 "badge".
You could also upgrade the H-88 to an H-89 by adding a hard disk
controller and floppy disk.  When you upgraded, you replaced the H-88
"badge" with an H-89 "badge".
So, it's quite possible that not only do they look identical externally,
they look identical internally.  If what you saw DOESN'T have a floppy
disk, then maybe it is the cassette-based system.  Look inside.  I have
the cassette software, if you are masochistic enough to want a copy of
it.
You might be able to find a hard disk controller and make it into an
H-89, if you like.  It shouldn't be too hard to find a floppy drive that
works, just plug in a DEC RX50 dual floppy!  My H-89 has in fact the
original prototype (DAM Drive) of the dual floppy, made by T and E
Engineering.  DEC later bought them out for the Rainbow/uPDP/uVAX, etc.
If you need an RX50 drive, I can get you one.
Dave