Microsoft Windows 3.0 for Leading Edge Computers

As a broader trend in the industry, computer manufactures bundled operating systems with their hardware to provide a more integrated and user‐friendly experience. Released in 1990, Windows 3.0 was a significant breakthrough success for Microsoft. The manual describes Windows 3.0 as, "the software that transforms the way you use your personal computer". Microsoft indicated to users that Windows 3.0 had the ability to run more than one application at a time and "transfer information between applications" while also being a more intuitive operating environment for the user. The Leading Edge branded version of Windows 3.0 was a special edition bundled with some Leading Edge computers and was customized to work seamlessly with Leading Edge hardware with pre‐installed utilities.

The Windows 3.0 for Leading Edge Computes software pack was contained in a striking grey and blue PC big‐box packaging with Leading Edge branding on it. Within the box was contained a cardboard insert that securely held the five installation disks, all contained in individual protective sleeves. On the front of the floppy disk holder, one could find a page titled "READ THIS BEFORE OPENING". This page contained the typical legal notifications regarding warranty and its limitations, defective items, and copyright information. Also included in the box was a significant 640‐page manual that covered installation, detailed instructions for user reference, and even a glossary to define technical terms to newer users that may not have been familiar with certain computer‐related terms.

The software was loaded onto five 5.25" 1.20MB floppy disks. On disk one through four resides the necessary installation files to complete the installation of Windows 3.0 onto a computer while disk five contained the data needed to install drivers for printers. If the user installing the operating system opted not to install a printer, then the use of disk five was not necessary.

After Windows 3.0 for Leading Edge Computers was installed on a Leading Edge Computer, there were no discernable differences between the pack‐in Leading Edge Branded operating system and a retail version of Windows 3.0. Even the loading screen did not contain any Leading Edge branding or change to the operating system whatsoever. There were not any special backgrounds or screensavers referencing Leading Edge available to the user.

See below for downloadable images in the original 5.25" 1.20 MB format.