I grew up with what I believe was a 30/286, at least it looked EXACTLY the same. I remember it running Windows 3.1, and being able to play games like Wolf 3D, Xargon, Zone 66 etc. Might have played Doom shareware if I can remember correctly.. If I am wrong, then what IBM model looks exactly like this http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dl... but supports win 3.1 and games like Wolf 3D and Commander Keen etc. I need to know, is it possible to run Windows 3.1 on an IBM PS/2 Model 30/286 Type 8530-E01? Also, is it possible to upgrade the memory or processor?

It has a maximum on-board ram of 4 meg. An optional expansion card could add up to 16 meg. According to this: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/83210 you'd need a 'snapin 386' (a 386 upgrade chip) to run 3.1. I can't say for sure but I imagine that's the only cpu upgrade available for that model. I have a couple of those model 30-286's in my stack of really old PC's. They have dual floppies so I don't think they contain hard drives. If you're looking to run old programs on 3.1 you're much better off with something a little newer--486 or even a P-I.

Might look at dosbox and or running virtual machines with win95. Might even try those games with xp in compatibility mode. Might have to adjust some files for sp2. "Best Practices", Event viewer, host file, perfmon, antivirus, anti-spyware, Live CD's, backups, are in my top 10

Im not a dos box person. Dos box is a great thing, but im the kind of person that HAS to use the original machine to get that true nostalgic feeling. Instead of having a PC loaded with emulators, I have about 20 different vintage machines and gaming systems. Thanks for the info though! Ill probably have to upgrade the board to a 386.. where can I get one of those?? Cant find it on eBay :-(

All you need to run windows 3.11 is a 286 or higher CPU and 2 megs of ram. I still run it on my Grid Laptop. PowerMac 9600(1 ghz G4) 512mb RAM 50gb SCSI ATi 9200 PCI