In the fast-paced world of technology, it’s easy to get caught up in the latest gadgets and innovations, often forgetting the devices that laid the foundation for modern computing. Among these pioneers is the iconic Apple iMac 17-inch Mid 2006.
In 2006, Apple introduced a new configuration of the 17-inch iMac tailored for education, priced at $899. This version featured a 1.83 GHz Intel Core Duo processor, a built-in iSight camera, and iLife ’06 software suite, revolutionizing digital learning in classrooms. With its sleek design and efficient use of space, the iMac became a staple in both classrooms and dorm rooms, replacing the bulky CRT-based computers of the past.
The iMac 17-inch Mid 2006 boasted a slim two-inch thin display housing the entire computer, showcasing Apple’s commitment to design simplicity and efficiency. Its 17-inch widescreen LCD display, Combo drive for CDs and DVDs, and expandable memory of up to 2 GB made it a versatile tool for both work and entertainment. With built-in connectivity options like Gigabit Ethernet and AirPort Extreme WiFi, it offered seamless integration into modern networks.
At the core of the iMac 17-inch Mid 2006 experience was iLife ’06, Apple’s suite of digital lifestyle applications. From photo editing with iPhoto to video creation with iMovie HD, users could unleash their creativity effortlessly. The addition of iWeb simplified website creation and sharing, empowering users to publish their content online with ease. Combined with Mac OS X 10.4.6 Tiger, the iMac delivered a seamless and intuitive computing experience.
Equipped with a 1.83 GHz Intel Core Duo processor and 512 MB of RAM, the iMac 17-inch Mid 2006 offered reliable performance for everyday tasks. Its vibrant 17-inch display provided an immersive viewing experience, while the slot-loading SuperDrive ensured fast and reliable disc playback. With modern features like Bluetooth 2.0 and USB 2.0 ports, it catered to the connectivity needs of its time.
Despite its popularity, the iMac 17-inch Mid 2006 was discontinued just months after its release in September 2006. However, its impact on personal computing and education technology remains significant. Today, 18 years later as we reflect on its legacy, the iMac 17-inch Mid 2006 stands as a testament to Apple’s innovation and design prowess.
iMac 17-inch Mid 2006 Details
| Introduced | July 5, 2006 – 18 years ago |
| Discontinued | September 6, 2006 – 17 years ago |
| Time on the Market | 63 days (2 months) |
| Model Identifier | iMac4,2 |
| Model Number | A1195 |
| EMC | 2110 |
| Order Number | MA406LL/A |
| Original Price | $899 |
| Colors | White |
| Weight | 15.5 Ibs. 7.030 KG |
| Dimensions | 16.9” H x 16.8” W x 6.8” D 42.92 cm H x 42.67 cm W x 17.27 cm D |
iMac 17-inch Tech Specs
Processor
| Processor | Intel Core Duo T2400 “Yonah” |
| Processor Speed | 1.83 GHz |
| Architecture | 32-bit |
| Number of Cores | 2 |
| System Bus | 667 MHz |
| Cache | 2 MB shared L2 at full processor speed |
Storage & Media
| Storage | 80 GB |
| Media | 1 – 8x DVD-R/CD-RW dual-layer “SuperDrive” slot-loading drive |
Memory
| Built-in Memory | 512 MB |
| Maximum Memory | 2 GB |
| Memory Slots | 2 – PC2-5300 200-pin DDR2 SO-DIMM 667 MHz |
| Interleaving Support | Yes |
Display
| Built-in Display | 17″ TFT LCD Display |
| Brightness | 250 cd/m² |
| Resolutions | 640 x 480 800 x 500 800 x 600 1024 x 640 1024 x 768 1152 x 720 1440 x 900 (Native) |
Graphics
| Graphics Card | Intel Graphics Media Accelerator GMA 950 |
| Graphics Memory | 64 MB DDR2* |
| Display Connection | 1 – Mini-DVI (DVI, VGA, Composite, and S-video with adapter) |
| Display Modes | Dual display extended and video mirroring |
| External Resolution | N/A |
| Camera | iSight |
Expansion
| Expansion Slots | None |
| Optical Drive Interface | Ultra ATA/100 |
| Hard Drive Interface | 1.5 Gbps Serial ATA (SATA) |
Connections
| Ethernet | 10/100/1000BASE-T (RJ-45 – support for jumbo frames) |
| Modem | Apple USB Modem MA034Z/A (Optional) |
| Wi-Fi | AirPort Extreme Card 802.11b/g |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 2.0 + EDR |
| USB | 3 – 480 Mbps (USB 2.0) |
| FireWire | 2 – 400 Mbps |
| Infrared | 1 – For Apple Remote only |
| Audio In | 1 – 3.5-mm analog/optical input jack 1 – Built-in microphone |
| Audio Out | 1 – 3.5-mm analog/optical combo jack 2 – Built-in speakers |
| Display | 1 – Mini-DVI (DVI, VGA, Composite, and S-video with adapter) |
Keyboard and Mouse
| Peripherals | Apple Keyboard Apple Mighty Mouse |
Software
| Original OS | Mac OS X 10.4.6 |
| Maximum OS | Mac OS X 10.6.8 |
| Firmware | Intel Extensible Firmware Interface |
| Bundled Software | Mac OS X 10.4 iLife ’06 (includes iTunes, iPhoto, iMovie HD, iDVD, iWeb, GarageBand) Microsoft Office 2004 for Mac Test Drive iWork ’06 (30-day trial) QuickBooks for Mac New User Edition Comic Life FileMaker Pro trial Omni Outliner Photo Booth Front Row Apple Hardware Test |
Power
| Backup Battery | 3 V CR2032 Lithium (922 – 6476) |
| Maximum Continuous Power | 180 W |
| Line Voltage | 100-240 V AC |
Further Reading and References
- Apple Introduces $899 Education Configuration for 17-inch iMac – Apple Newsroom
- iMac (Intel-based) – Wikipedia
- 17″ iMac (Mid 2006) – Low End Mac
- iMac (Mid 2006) – Apple History
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.
