I am in the process of purchasing an Apple III (not a III+) for about $50. I was supposed to pickup the computer last Saturday, however the seller was unavailable, and I had to go to work in the morning.
From the picture that was sent to me from the seller, and a brief description of the problems with it, I am at a crossroads as to whether I should even bother continuing to pursue such a venture. I realize that the III was produced in limited quantities (due to its well-known failures), but I must take into account possible repair costs, and hunting down parts.
Here is an excerpt from a recent message the seller sent me:
Hi Paul,
I tested the Apple III today but I have no disks for it. It seemed to run ram diagnostics and then reset and run them over and over so I have no idea if it is working properly or not. Also there are a few keys missing.
Assuming if the seller's diagnostic is correct, can this III be salvaged? I still have to see the computer upfront, and do the usual inspection.
Thoughts?
From the picture that was sent to me from the seller, and a brief description of the problems with it, I am at a crossroads as to whether I should even bother continuing to pursue such a venture. I realize that the III was produced in limited quantities (due to its well-known failures), but I must take into account possible repair costs, and hunting down parts.
Here is an excerpt from a recent message the seller sent me:
Hi Paul,
I tested the Apple III today but I have no disks for it. It seemed to run ram diagnostics and then reset and run them over and over so I have no idea if it is working properly or not. Also there are a few keys missing.
Assuming if the seller's diagnostic is correct, can this III be salvaged? I still have to see the computer upfront, and do the usual inspection.
Thoughts?