In the ever-evolving world of technology, it’s essential to look back and appreciate the milestones that paved the way for our modern devices. One such landmark moment occurred in 1999 when Apple unveiled the Apple Studio 21-inch CRT Display. A true testament to the company’s commitment to innovation, this display left an indelible mark on the desktop computing landscape.
The year is 1999, and Apple enthusiasts are buzzing with excitement as the tech giant introduces its latest offering – the Apple Studio 21-inch CRT Display. Part of the Apple Studio Display series, this display was exclusively designed, manufactured, and sold by Apple. It promised to revolutionize the desktop experience, setting high expectations among users.
The Apple Studio 21-inch CRT Display came packed with features that were groundbreaking for its time. Boasting a 21-inch CRT display with a resolution of 1600 x 1200, it provided a high-quality visual experience. The display’s ability to showcase 16.7 million colors was a game-changer, ensuring vibrant and accurate color representation.
Pixel density is a crucial factor in display quality, and the Apple Studio 21-inch CRT Display excelled in this aspect with an impressive 85 dpi. This contributed to sharp and clear images, making it a preferred choice for professionals and enthusiasts alike. Additionally, the inclusion of four USB ports and a VGA port enhanced its versatility, catering to a wide range of applications.
The Apple Studio 21-inch CRT Display wasn’t just a powerhouse in terms of performance; it also made a statement with its design. Initially released with a “Blueberry” and white exterior to complement the Blue & White Power Mac G3, Apple later switched to a “Graphite” and white styling to match the Power Mac G4 in August 1999. The sleek and modern design added a touch of sophistication to desktop setups.
One standout feature of the Apple Studio 21-inch CRT Display was its push-button “lifetime color calibration using ColorSync technology.” This innovation allowed users to maintain consistent and accurate colors over time, catering to the demands of graphic designers, photographers, and other professionals who required precise color representation in their work.
Regrettably, the Apple Studio 21-inch CRT Display was not destined for the long run. Just eight months after its initial release in January 1999, Apple decided to discontinue the product on July 19, 2000. Despite its short lifespan, this display remains etched in the annals of Apple’s history as a symbol of the company’s pursuit of excellence and innovation.
Fast forward to today, and the Apple Studio 21-inch CRT Display stands as a nostalgic relic, celebrating its 25-year anniversary. It serves as a reminder of an era when CRT displays dominated the desktop computer market, and Apple was at the forefront of technological advancements. While newer and more advanced display technologies have emerged, the Studio Display remains a significant milestone in Apple’s rich history.
The Apple Studio 21-inch CRT Display may have had a brief existence, but its impact is enduring. Its advanced features, sleek design, and innovative technologies made it a standout product in its time. As we reminisce about this piece of Apple’s history, it’s essential to recognize the role it played in shaping the future of display technology. The Studio Display may have been retired, but its legacy lives on in the memories of those who experienced the era when it graced desktops with its cutting-edge brilliance.
Apple Studio 21-inch CRT Display Details
| Introduced | January 5, 1999 (Blueberry) August 31, 1999 (Graphite) |
| Discontinued | August 31, 1999 (Blueberry) July 19, 2000 (Graphite) |
| Model Number | M6204 |
| Order Number | Unknown |
| Original Price | $1,499 |
| Colors | Blueberry Graphite |
| Weight | 77 Ibs. 34.926 KG |
| Dimensions | 22.3” H x 20.1” W x 21.7” D 56.64 cm H x 51.05 cm W x 55.11 cm D |
System Requirements
- Mac OS 8 or later
- Power Mac G3 or later
Display Specs
| Type | Trinitron CRT |
| Size | 21” |
| Viewable Area | 19.8” |
| Colors | 16.7 million |
| Brightness | N/A |
| Resolutions | 640 x 480 800 x 600 832 x 624 1024 x 768 1152 x 870 1280 x 1024 1600 x 1200 |
| Viewing Angle | N/A |
| Contrast Ratio | N/A |
| Response Time | N/A |
| Pixel Pitch | 0.25 / 0.27 mm |
| Pixel Density | 85 dpi |
Connections
| Connection | 1 – VGA |
| Audio | None |
| Camera | None |
| Ports | 4 – USB |
Power
| Maximum Continuous Power | 180 W |
Further Reading and References
- Apple Studio Display 21: Technical Specifications – Apple Support
- Apple Studio Display (1998–2004) – Wikipedia
- Studio Display 21″ CRT Service Source (PDF) – Apple Repair Manuals
- Apple Studio Display was easy on the eyes, hard on the back – MacWorld
- Apple Studio Display 21″ – bounav
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: January 13, 2024
