In the fast-paced world of technology, where gadgets become obsolete within a few years, it’s easy to forget the devices that paved the way for today’s advanced machines. One such device that holds a special place in the hearts of Apple fans and technology enthusiasts is the Macintosh Performa 200. Released by the tech giant from 1992 to 1993 as part of the Macintosh Performa series, this personal computer may be considered a dinosaur by today’s standards, but it represents an important milestone in Apple’s history.
Introduced on September 14, 1992, the Macintosh Performa 200 captured the attention of consumers with its affordable price tag of $900. This made it an attractive choice for personal use and small businesses alike. Despite its compact size and unassuming design, this machine packed a punch in terms of performance. Equipped with a 16 MHz Motorola 68030 processor, 2 MB of RAM, and a 40 MB or 80 MB hard drive, the Performa 200 was capable of handling the demands of System 7 with ease.
One of the standout features of the Macintosh Performa 200 was its 9-inch monochrome display. While the screen resolution of 512 x 342 may seem laughable by today’s standards, it was a practical option in its time. However, it’s important to note that by the early 1990s, Apple had already moved on from the 9-inch black and white Mac line. The Classic II, which had been on the market for almost a year before the Performa 200’s release, marked the end of that era.
Despite its relative success and affordability, the Macintosh Performa 200’s time in the spotlight was short-lived. On October 18, 1993, Apple discontinued the machine, marking the end of an era. However, even after 31 years, this relic of technology history still evokes a sense of nostalgia and fascination among Apple enthusiasts. It serves as a reminder of the rapid advancements in technology and the ever-evolving nature of personal computers.
Although the Macintosh Performa 200 may no longer be in production, its significance should not be underestimated. As one of Apple’s more budget-friendly options during its time, it demonstrated the company’s commitment to making computing accessible to a wider audience. The Macintosh Performa 200 also exemplifies Apple’s innovative spirit, as it was a stepping stone towards the development of more advanced machines that we enjoy today.
While the Macintosh Performa 200 may not have been a groundbreaking device in terms of technology, it played an important role in Apple’s history. It provided an affordable entry point into the world of personal computing and allowed users to experience the power of a Macintosh at a time when such devices were still considered a luxury. The Performa 200 holds a special place in the hearts of Apple fans and serves as a reminder of the company’s journey toward technological excellence.
As we marvel at the latest advancements in personal computers and mobile devices, let’s not forget the humble beginnings of the Macintosh Performa 200. It may have been a relic of the past, but it continues to inspire future generations of tech enthusiasts, reminding us of the transformative power of innovation and the lasting impact of the devices that came before.
Macintosh Performa 200 Details
| Introduced | September 14, 1992 |
| Discontinued | October 18, 1993 |
| Model Identifier | 49 |
| Model Number | M4150 |
| Order Number | Unknown |
| Original Price | $900 |
| Colors | Platinum |
| Weight | 16 Ibs. 7.257 KG |
| Dimensions | 13.2” H x 9.7” W x 11.2” D 33.52 cm H x 24.63 cm W x 28.44 cm D |
Mac Performa 200 Tech Specs
Processor
| Processor | Motorola 68030 |
| Processor Speed | 16 MHz |
| Architecture | Unknown |
| Number of Cores | 1 |
| System Bus | 16 MHz |
| Cache | 0.5 KB L1 |
| Coprocessor | None |
Storage & Media
| Storage | 40 MB 80 MB |
| Media | 1.44 MB floppy |
Memory
| Built-in Memory | 2 MB |
| Maximum Memory | 10 MB |
| Memory Slots | 2 – 30 pin SIMM (Groups of 2) |
| Minimum Speed | 100 ns |
| ROM | Unknown |
| Interleaving Support | No |
Display
| Built-in Display | 9” monochrome display |
| Resolution | 512 x 342 |
| Pixel Density | 72 ppi |
Graphics
| Graphics Card | None |
| Graphics Memory | None |
| Display Connection | Unknown |
Expansion
| Expansion Slots | None |
| Hard Drive Interface | SCSI |
Connections
| Ethernet | None |
| Modem | None |
| ADB | 1 |
| Serial | 2 |
| SCSI | 1 – DB-25 |
| Floppy Port | 1 – DB-19 |
| Audio In | 1 – 3.5-mm mono input jack |
| Audio Out | 1 – 3.5-mm mono output jack 1 – Built-in speaker |
| Display | Unknown |
Software
| Original OS | System Software 7.0.1P |
| Maximum OS | Mac OS 7.6.1 |
| Firmware | Macintosh ROM |
Power
| Backup Battery | 3.6 V lithium |
| Maximum Continuous Power | 76 W |
| Line Voltage | Unknown |
Further Reading and References
- Macintosh Performa 200: Technical Specifications – Apple Support
- Apple’s Performa Line, 1992 to 1997 – Low End Mac
- Macintosh Performa – Wikipedia
- Mac aus alten Zeiten! – Macintosh Performa 200 – YouTube
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 18, 2023
