The VK100 was deaigned with local storage but ultimately emerged as a terminal designed to get its storage from a time sharing system, mostly RSTS/E at that iime. But it was fun to use one with storage. It was well ahead,of the apple pc at that time. read my other responses, especially the one...
Just came across this email thread. I was the advanced development manager for GIGI and can answer a couple of questions. We did indeed understand the microcomputer market, and the emergence of PCs. We predated both. But some factors unique to DEC lead to the VK100/GIGI emerging as a terminal...
I should mention that I have just started a restloration effort on the second GIGI. It is in good shape, powers up, but shows error codes. I would like to discuss with others who have restored a GIGI.