On January 1st, 1993, Apple revolutionized the world of printing with the introduction of the LaserWriter Pro 600. This printer quickly found its way into countless offices and homes worldwide, earning a reputation for its power, versatility, and innovative features.
Though it enjoyed a relatively short lifespan, the LaserWriter Pro 600 continues to hold a special place in the hearts of tech enthusiasts and Apple fans as a cherished piece of nostalgia. Today, as we celebrate 31 years since its release, we reflect on the impact this iconic printer had on the industry and its lasting legacy.
The LaserWriter Pro 600 boasted impressive specifications that set it apart from its competitors. Equipped with a 25 MHz Motorola 68030 processor and 2 MB of ROM, this printer was a true workhorse. It delivered exceptional print quality with a maximum resolution of 600 dpi and a remarkable printing speed of up to 8 pages per minute. The LaserWriter Pro 600 also offered a range of connectivity options, including Serial, LocalTalk, and Centronics Parallel ports, ensuring seamless integration into any environment.
Apple’s meticulous attention to detail was evident in the LaserWriter Pro 600’s design. Despite its compact footprint, it packed a punch with its Canon LBP-EX print engine. This engine could churn out 8 pages per minute, boasting a lifespan of 450,000 pages.
The printer’s sleek enclosure consumed less power than its predecessors, reflecting Apple’s commitment to energy efficiency. Users could further enhance the Pro 600’s capabilities by upgrading its RAM, enabling higher resolutions and the groundbreaking PhotoGrade feature that enhanced the appearance of lower-resolution grayscale images.
While the LaserWriter Pro 600 may have had a relatively short production run, its impact on the world of printing is undeniable. Its success paved the way for subsequent printers in the Apple Printer series, showcasing the company’s commitment to innovation and user-friendly design. The Pro 600’s compatibility with HP LaserJet 4-toner cartridges and its integration of popular fonts like Helvetica, Times, and Courier made it a versatile and user-friendly choice for professionals.
Today, the LaserWriter Pro 600 continues to hold a special place in the hearts of those who experienced its heyday. Tech enthusiasts and Apple fans alike fondly remember the printer’s reliability, print quality, and the distinctive charm it brought to the world of printing. As we look back on the 31-years-old Pro 600’s, it serves as a reminder of Apple’s unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of technology and design.
The LaserWriter Pro 600 may have been discontinued over 31 years ago, but its impact remains imprinted in the annals of printing history. From its powerful specifications and sleek design to its enduring influence on subsequent printers, the Pro 600 was a testament to Apple’s visionary approach.
LaserWriter Pro 600 Details
| Introduced | January 1, 1993 |
| Discontinued | September 1, 1994 |
| Model Number | Unknown |
| Order Number | Unknown |
| Original Price | Unknown |
| Weight | 39 Ibs. 17.690 KG |
| Dimensions | 12.1” H x 16.8” W x 16.9” D 30.73 cm H x 42.67 cm W x 42.92 cm D |
Printer Specs
| Type | Electrophotography |
| Colors | 1 |
| Pages Per Minute | 8 |
| DPI | 600 |
| Language | PostScript Level 2 PCL 4+ |
| Cartridge | M2473G/A |
Hardware
| Processor | Motorola 68030 |
| Processor Speed | 25 MHz |
| ROM Size | 2 MB |
| Maximum Memory | 32 MB |
| Memory Slots | 2 – 72-pin SIMM |
| Minimum Speed | 80 ns |
Connections
| Connection | LocalTalk Serial Centronics Parallel |
Power
| Maximum Continuous Power | 560 W |
Further Reading and References
- LaserWriter Pro 600: Technical Specifications – Apple Support
- LaserWriter Pro 600 – Low End Mac
- LaserWriter Pro 600/630 Service Source (PDF) – Apple Repair Manuals
Disclaimer: The data presented in this article is under continuous development and has been manually collected from various sources based on their availability. The author of this article may revise this dataset as additional research is conducted and reviewed. Please note that the information is provided “as is” and “as available” without express or implied warranties. The author cannot be held responsible for any omissions, inaccuracies, or errors in the published information. Any warranties relating to this information are hereby disclaimed.
Last updated: June 26, 2023
