Mac IIvx

aka Performa 600

Overview

The Mac IIvx was a respectable computer in its own right, but a big "Huh?" for Mac IIci users. Where the LC and LC II had been compromised by using a 32-bit processor on a 16-bid data bus, the IIvx ran a 32MHz CPU on a 16MHz bus. This gave it a lower performance rating than the IIci, which was still available.

The IIvx was the first Mac available with a built-in CD-ROM drive.

Details

• introduced September 1992 at $2,950; discontinued October 1993
• requires System 7.1 (with Enabler 001) or later
• 32MH 68030 CPU and 68882 FPU
• 8MB RAM, expandable to 68MB using 4-SIMM banks of 80ns 30-pin memory
• 512KB VRAM standard, expandable to 1MB
• 32KB level 2 cache (not on Performa 600)
• PDS slot supports L2 cache in IIvx, accelerator card in both models
• ADB ports for keyboard and mouse
• DIN-8 serial ports on back of computer
• DB-25 SCSI connector on back of computer
• three Nubus slots
• upgrade path: Quadra 700, Quadra 650, Power Mac 7100

Accelerators & Upgrades

• Apple Quadra 650 motherboard (33MHz 68040)
• MicroMac Diimo/030 (50MHz 68030), 64KB cache, optional 50MHz 68882 FPU
• Sonnet Technologies Presto 040 (40MHz 68040 or 68LC040), optional 128KB cache

Cautions

• Serial port limited to 57.6kbps; use of a 56k modem is not recommended.