The if NOTE 40 series was remarkable because it created the smallest letter-size (279 × 216 × 48 mm) 32-bit computers while fitting in a 20 MHz 80386SL processor — a 386 CPU for notebook computers — a 3.5-inch floppy drive, and a 40 MB hard drive. There were three models — the if 386 AX 41L, the if 386 AX 43L, and the if 386 AX 45L. At the time, there were demands on enterprise systems not only for more open and scaled-down systems but also for convergence of core information systems with office automation systems. The if NOTE 40 series was furnished with the client system features needed to achieve this system convergence. The 45L model was standard equipped with built-in Ethernet connectivity — the de facto LAN standard — and all models had the capability for built-in Ethernet. And in consideration of Windows’ memory requirements, the 43L and the 45L were standard equipped with 4 MB and were expandable up to 8 MB. OS/2 was also supported.
| if386AX41L | if386AX43L | if386AX45L | ||
| CPU | 386SL（20MHz） | |||
| Memory | ROM | 128KB | ||
| RAM | 1MB | 4MB | 4MB | |
| Video RAM | 256KB | |||
| Japanese ROM | 7,300 characters: JIS Level 1, JIS Level 2, and 82 additional characters | |||
| Extended characters RAM | 752 user-defined characters | |||
| Storage devices | Floppy drive | One 3.5-inch drive with three modes (0.72 MB / 1.2 MB / 1.44 MB) | ||
| Hard drive | One 2.5-inch 40 MB | |||
| Monitor | Display method | LCD monitor with a CFL backlight | ||
| Japanese modes | 40 Japanese characters x 25 lines 80 alphanumeric/kana characters x 25 lines Resolution: 640 x 480 pixels |
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| External monitor | AX specification | |||
| Keyboard | Layout | AX small keyboard (90 keys) integrated with the computer | ||
| External keypad | One 17-key external keypad could be connected as an option | |||
| Mouse | Connects to an RS-232C interface | |||
| LAN functionality | 10Base2 and 10Base-T (optional), reduces battery life | Standard equipped with 10Base2 | ||
| Communication functionality | Internal V.26 bis modem (optional), reduces battery life | |||
| Audio functionality | Built-in speaker | |||
| Power supply and power consumption | Battery operation or 100 V 50/60 Hz About 25 W | 100 V 50/60 Hz About 25 W | ||
| Battery operation | 1.8 hours | — | ||
| External dimensions [mm]/ weight | 279 × 216 x 48 (w x d x h) / 2.7 kg | |||
| Supplied software | MS-DOSV3.21 | |||
