On February 2, 1994, Apple unveiled a remarkable personal computer that would soon become an iconic member of the Macintosh LC series. The Macintosh LC 550, known for its affordability and advanced features, captured the hearts of consumers during its short but impactful lifespan from 1994 to 1995. Today, as this beloved classic turns 30 years old, we take a nostalgic journey back to explore the enduring legacy of the Macintosh LC 550.
The Macintosh LC 550 boasted impressive specifications that made it a powerful machine during its era. Equipped with a 33 MHz Motorola 68030 processor and a Motorola 68882 FPU coprocessor, it offered exceptional processing capabilities. Additionally, its 14″ CRT color display showcased vibrant visuals, further enhancing the overall computing experience. With 5 MB of RAM, a choice between 80 MB or 160 MB hard drives, a CD-ROM drive, and a 1.44 MB floppy drive, the Macintosh LC 550 delivered both versatility and storage capacity.
Apple recognized the importance of affordability without compromising on quality. With a price tag of $1,200 at launch, the Macintosh LC 550 appealed to a wide range of consumers who sought a high-quality computer within a reasonable budget. Its accessibility played a significant role in its popularity and helped establish the Macintosh LC 550 as a staple in the computing world.
Despite its acclaim, the Macintosh LC 550 faced an unfortunate fate. Apple made the decision to discontinue the model on March 23, 1995, leaving behind a legacy that continues to resonate with enthusiasts and technology aficionados. However, even with its relatively short lifespan, the Macintosh LC 550 left an indelible mark in computing history.
The Macintosh LC 550’s sleek design and advanced features have secured its place as a timeless piece of technology. Apple’s commitment to innovation shines through in this remarkable creation. Whether it’s the powerful processing capabilities, ample storage options, or the all-in-one compact case, the Macintosh LC 550 stands as a testament to Apple’s prowess in crafting remarkable computing solutions.
The consumer version of the Macintosh LC 550, known as the Performa 550 series, brought the same exceptional features to a broader audience. This iteration further extended the impact and popularity of the LC 550, offering consumers an opportunity to experience its capabilities firsthand.
Interestingly, the Macintosh LC 550 shares the same motherboard as the rare Color Classic II, providing a unique upgrade opportunity for original Color Classic owners. By simply swapping in a 550 motherboard, users could enjoy a quick and hassle-free performance boost.
As we celebrate the 30-year anniversary of the Macintosh LC 550, it’s clear that this remarkable computer has etched itself into the annals of computing history. Its affordability, advanced features, and enduring design have solidified its status as one of Apple’s greatest creations. The Macintosh LC 550 continues to inspire nostalgia among technology enthusiasts, serving as a reminder of Apple’s dedication to delivering groundbreaking computing experiences.
Macintosh LC 550 Details
| Introduced | February 2, 1994 |
| Discontinued | March 23, 1995 |
| Model Identifier | 80 |
| Model Number | M1640 |
| Order Number | Unknown |
| Original Price | $1,200 |
| Colors | Platinum |
| Weight | 40.5 Ibs. 18.370 KG |
| Dimensions | 17.9” H x 13.5” W x 16.5” D 45.46 cm H x 34.29 cm W x 41.91 cm D |
Mac LC 550 Tech Specs
Processor
| Processor | Motorola 68030 |
| Processor Speed | 33 MHz |
| Architecture | 32-bit |
| Number of Cores | 1 |
| System Bus | 33 MHz |
| Cache | 0.5 KB L1 |
| Coprocessor | Motorola 68882 FPU (Optional) |
Storage & Media
| Storage | 80 MB 160 MB |
| Media | 1 – CD-ROM 1 – 1.44 MB Floppy |
Memory
| Built-in Memory | 5 MB |
| Maximum Memory | 36 MB |
| Memory Slots | 1 – 72 pin SIMM |
| Minimum Speed | 80 ns |
| ROM | Unknown |
| Interleaving Support | No |
Display
| Built-in Display | 14″ RGB CRT Display |
| Resolution | 640 x 480 |
Graphics
| Graphics Card | None |
| Graphics Memory | 512 KB (Upgradeable to 768 KB via one socket) |
| Display Connection | 1 – DB-15 |
Expansion
| Expansion Slots | 1 – LC PDS (Cache Bus) |
| Hard Drive Interface | SCSI |
Connections
| Ethernet | None |
| Modem | None |
| ADB | 2 |
| Serial | 2 |
| SCSI | 1 – DB-25 |
| Floppy Port | None |
| Audio In | 1 – 3.5-mm analog input jack 1 – Built-in microphone |
| Audio Out | 2 – 3.5-mm analog output jack 2 – Built-in speaker |
| Display | 1 – DB-15 |
Software
| Original OS | System Software 7.1 |
| Maximum OS | Mac OS 7.6.1 |
| Firmware | Macintosh ROM |
Power
| Backup Battery | 3.6 V lithium |
| Maximum Continuous Power | 40 W |
| Line Voltage | Unknown |
Further Reading and References
- Macintosh LC 550: Technical Specifications – Apple Support
- Macintosh LC 500 series – Wikipedia
- Mac LC 550 (Performa 550) – Low End Mac
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: July 17, 2023
