In the ever-evolving landscape of personal computing, certain devices stand out as pioneers that set new standards and redefine user expectations. One such groundbreaking computer was the iMac DV Special Edition with Slot Loading Drive, affectionately known as the iMac DV SE Late 1999. Designed and crafted by Apple, this iconic machine left an indelible mark on the industry when it was introduced on October 5th, 1999.
While the original iMac models focused on connecting users to the internet, the iMac DV SE Late 1999 marked a shift towards the burgeoning digital video (DV) market. Retaining the distinctive aesthetic of its predecessors, this model featured a slightly smaller enclosure, lighter colors, and clearer plastics. The conventional tray-loading CD-ROM drive gave way to an innovative slot-loading drive, and a rear door was added to facilitate easy RAM upgrades. Notably, a slot for an AirPort wireless networking card was introduced, showcasing Apple’s commitment to staying ahead in connectivity trends.
In a strategic collaboration, Apple partnered with Harman Kardon to design the internal speakers for the iMac DV SE, enhancing the audio experience for users. The absence of a fan was a notable departure from previous models, with components cooled through convection. Hot air was efficiently exhausted through vents around the computer’s top handle, contributing to a quieter operation.
The iMac DV Special Edition debuted in a striking new color named Graphite. Boasting more RAM and a 13 GB hard drive – the largest in the lineup at the time – it set a new benchmark for personal computers. The addition of a VGA video-out port allowed users to mirror the iMac’s display on another monitor, providing enhanced flexibility.
Under the hood, the iMac DV SE Late 1999 was a technological powerhouse that was ahead of its time. Equipped with a 400 MHz PowerPC 750 G3 processor, a 15” CRT Display, 128 MB of RAM, a 13 GB hard drive, a 4x DVD-ROM slot-loading drive, and 8 MB ATI Rage 128 VR graphics, it was tailor-made for home movie editing. The “DV” in its name aptly stands for digital video, reflecting its focus on catering to the demands of a rapidly growing market.
This iteration of the iMac series showcased a more powerful processor, a VGA output port, a DVD-ROM drive, a larger hard drive, and a FireWire port. These features collectively positioned the iMac DV SE as the go-to computer for users engaged in multimedia tasks, particularly digital video editing.
The iMac DV Special Edition was more than just an incremental upgrade from the original iMac DV. It represented a significant leap forward, doubling the RAM, increasing hard drive capacity, and introducing an exclusive Graphite color variant. Consumers quickly recognized its capabilities, and it became a top-selling computer for an entire year.
However, like all technological marvels, the iMac DV SE had its sunset moment. On July 19th, 2000, it was discontinued, making way for the next iteration – the iMac DV SE Mid 2000.
As we reflect on the iMac DV SE Late 1999 today, it stands as a testament to Apple’s commitment to innovation and its ability to shape the trajectory of personal computing. Despite being 24 years old, the legacy of this iconic computer lives on. It not only set the standard for what a personal computer should be but also paved the way for future generations of computers.
While Apple has continued to push the boundaries of technology, the iMac DV SE remains a cherished chapter in the company’s history. Its impact on the digital video editing landscape, coupled with its distinctive design and powerful features, ensures its enduring place in the hearts of technology enthusiasts and Apple aficionados alike.
The iMac DV SE Late 1999 was more than a computer; it was a game-changer that left an indelible mark on the industry. As we navigate the ever-evolving world of personal computing, let’s take a moment to appreciate the legacy of this iconic machine that sets the stage for the future. The iMac DV SE may be a vintage piece in the tech museum, but its influence reverberates through the corridors of innovation.
iMac DV Special Edition Late 1999
| Introduced | October 5, 1999 |
| Discontinued | July 19, 2000 |
| Model Identifier | PowerMac2,1 |
| Model Number | M5521 |
| EMC | 1821 |
| Order Number | M7668LL/A |
| Original Price | $1,499 |
| Colors | Graphite |
| Weight | 34.7 Ibs. 15.739 KG |
| Dimensions | 15” H x 15” W x 17.1” D 38.1 cm H x 38.1 cm W x 43.43 cm D |
iMac DV SE Tech Specs
Processor
| Processor | PowerPC 750 G3 |
| Processor Speed | 400 MHz |
| Architecture | 32-bit |
| Number of Cores | 1 |
| System Bus | 100 MHz |
| Cache | 64 KB L1 512 KB backside L2 |
| Coprocessor | Built-in FPU |
Storage & Media
| Storage | 13 GB |
| Media | 1 – Slot-loading 4x DVD-ROM |
Memory
| Built-in Memory | 128 MB |
| Maximum Memory | 512 MB (Apple) 1 GB (Actual) |
| Memory Slots | 2 – PC-100 3.3v 168-pin SDRAM |
| Minimum Speed | 10 ns |
| Interleaving Support | No |
Display
| Built-in Display | 15″ Shadow-mask CRT Display (13.8″ viewable) |
| Resolutions | 640 x 480 800 x 600 1024 x 768 |
Graphics
| Graphics Card | ATI Rage 128 VR |
| Graphics Memory | 8 MB |
| Display Connection | 1 – VGA |
| Display Modes | Video mirroring only |
| External Resolution | N/A |
| Camera | None |
Expansion
| Expansion Slots | None |
| Optical Drive Interface | Ultra ATA (Shared with hard disk drive) |
| Hard Drive Interface | Ultra ATA (Shared with optical drive) |
Connections
| Ethernet | 10/100BASE-T (RJ-45) |
| Modem | 56k |
| Wi-Fi | AirPort Card 802.11b (Optional) |
| Bluetooth | None |
| USB | 2 – 12 Mbps |
| FireWire | 2 – 400 Mbps |
| Audio In | 1 – 3.5-mm analog input jack 1 – Built-in microphone |
| Audio Out | 1 – 3.5-mm analog output jack 2 – Built-in speakers |
| Display | 1 – VGA |
Software
| Original OS | Mac OS 8.6 |
| Later OS | Mac OS 9.0 Mac OS 9.0.3 Mac OS 9.0.4 |
| Maximum OS | Mac OS X 10.4.11 |
| Firmware | Mac OS ROM 2.3.1 |
| Bundled Software | N/A |
Keyboard and Mouse
| Peripherals | Apple USB Keyboard Apple USB Mouse |
Power
| Backup Battery | 3.6 V 850 mAh Lithium (922-4028) |
| Maximum Continuous Power | 150 W |
| Line Voltage | 100-260 V AC |
Further Reading and References
- iMac (Slot Loading): Technical Specifications – Apple Support
- iMac G3 – Wikipedia
- iMac DV Special Edition – MacWorld
- October 1999: iMac, iMac DV, iMac DV Special Edition – 512 Pixels
- iMac DV SE – Relatively Ambitious
- Apple iMac DV (G3) – Retro Viator
- iMac/iMac DV 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: January 16, 2024
