Date   : Wed, 14 Dec 1983 15:32:00-PST
From   : JHESS@usc-eclb
Subject: Zenith Z-100 for DoD use

Two pieces of paper have crossed my desk this week concerning the
Zenith Z-100:

1.  Air Force Systems Command (ACDT) letter, dated 8 Nov 1983, 
subject: Information, Small Computer Contract states in part:

     "1.  This letter is intended for information only and should not be
      construed as a solicitation for requirements..  The Air Force standard
      small computer contract was awarded to Zenith Data Systems on 3 Oct 83.
      It becomes a mandatory source for microcomputers, although if sufficient
      justification exists, other sources are allowed.

      2.  Since this equipment is managed under the 300-Series regulations,
      the DAR process, via AFSC Form 380, is mandatory ..."

2.  An undated and unsigned paper entitled " Z-100 Contract Guidelines and
Items of Interest" states:

      "1.  Air Force policy is:  If the products on this contract can
       satisfy the user's requirement, we must use this contract."

      "4.  Zenith plans to offer the following packages with an amendment
       to the contract:
         a.  Multiplan (spreadsheet)
         b.  Lotus 1-2-3 (INTEGRATED SPREADSHEET, dbms, AND graphics)
         c.  Concurrent CP/M
         d.  Wordstar (word processing)
         e.  "C" compiler"

      "9.  AFSCOASO and AFLANSPO are jointly developing communications
       interface software."

      "10.  Government employees, including military, may acquire a Z-100
       microcomputer, peripherals, and related software by joining the
       Government Employees Association, GEA, for a modest fee of $10.  This
       lifetime membership allows an employee to buy products at the same
       price as the Government contract.  The employee is limited to one
       system per year and a maximum of $5000.00 total purchases on this 
       contract.  The buyer must pay shipping cost and the equipment must
       be shipped to the buyer's home address."

NOTE - The contract number is "F19630-83-D-0005" and the purchase prices
are fantastic --- approx 40-60% off list.  The Navy apparently has some 
joint arrangement with the Air Force, but I have not been able to get any
details.  I don't bthink the Army has a piece of the action.  I called
GEA yesterday and they confirmed the info in the notice quoted above.  They
are sending me additional info and I will post the net when I receive it.