In the vibrant era of the 90s, Apple’s Macintosh Performa series captivated tech enthusiasts with its groundbreaking technology and sleek design. Among these iconic machines, the Macintosh Performa 275 emerged as a standout model that left a lasting impression on users. Let’s take a nostalgic journey back to this remarkable computer, which showcased impressive performance and cutting-edge features during its brief yet memorable existence from 1993 to 1995.
At its core, the Macintosh Performa 275 boasted a remarkable 33 MHz Motorola 68030 processor, a true powerhouse of its time. This computing marvel was further enhanced by a Motorola 68882 FPU coprocessor, ensuring optimal performance for demanding tasks. Users reveled in the seamless multitasking capabilities and the ability to handle resource-intensive applications effortlessly.
The Macintosh Performa 275 revolutionized the way users experienced displays. Featuring a brilliant 10-inch color CRT display, it transported users from the monochromatic past to a vivid, immersive visual world. This transformative leap made working, gaming, and exploring the digital realm an enchanting experience. The vibrant colors and crisp imagery became synonymous with the Performa 275’s charm.
Equipped with 4 MB of RAM, the Performa 275 provided users with ample memory to tackle everyday computing needs. Paired with either an 80 MB or 160 MB hard drive, this Macintosh offered generous storage space, catering to users’ requirements for the time. Furthermore, the inclusion of a 1.44 MB floppy drive added a layer of convenience, allowing users to effortlessly share and store data.
The Macintosh Performa 275’s glory days, unfortunately, came to an end on November 1, 1995, when Apple discontinued the model. However, its impact on the tech landscape was undeniable. As newer, more advanced models emerged, the Performa 275’s legacy endured, etching itself into the hearts of many tech enthusiasts.
Today, as we celebrate the 30-year anniversary of the Macintosh Performa 275, it still resonates with those who appreciated its power and elegance. While time may have moved on, the nostalgia surrounding this all-in-one beauty remains strong. The Performa 275’s role in shaping the trajectory of computing history and its enduring allure make it a cherished relic among collectors and fans alike.
It is worth noting that the Macintosh Performa 275 was exclusively sold in Asia, making it a rare gem for international collectors. The standard version known as the Color Classic II, also restricted to non-U.S. markets, shared many similarities with the Performa 275, captivating users across the globe with its compact form factor and impressive performance.
The Macintosh Performa 275 stands as a testament to Apple’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of technology and design. Its powerful processor, stunning color display, and ample storage capabilities were a game-changer for users in the 90s.
Today, as we reflect on its impact, the Performa 275 continues to hold a special place in the hearts of tech enthusiasts, reminding us of an era when innovation knew no bounds. Though it may no longer grace our desks, its legacy lives on, inspiring future generations to reimagine what’s possible in the world of computing.
Macintosh Performa 275 Details
| Introduced | October 1, 1993 |
| Discontinued | November 1, 1995 |
| Model Identifier | 83 |
| Model Number | M1600 |
| Order Number | M2498J/A |
| Original Price | Unknown |
| Colors | Platinum |
| Weight | 22.5 Ibs. 10.205 KG |
| Dimensions | 14.5” H x 9.9” W x 12.6” D 36.83 cm H x 25.14 cm W x 32 cm D |
Mac Performa 275 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 | 1.44 MB floppy |
Memory
| Built-in Memory | 4 MB |
| Maximum Memory | 36 MB |
| Memory Slots | 1 – 72 pin SIMM |
| Minimum Speed | 100 ns |
| ROM | Unknown |
| Interleaving Support | No |
Display
| Built-in Display | 10” RGB 8-bit CRT display (256 colors) |
| Resolution | 512 x 342 |
| Pixel Density | Unknown |
Graphics
| Graphics Card | None |
| Graphics Memory | 256 KB 512 KB |
| Display Connection | N/A |
Expansion
| Expansion Slots | 1 – LC PDS |
| 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 |
| Audio Out | 1 – 3.5-mm analog output jack |
| Display | N/A |
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 | 100 W |
| Line Voltage | N/A |
Further Reading and References
- Macintosh Performa 275: Technical Specifications – Apple Support
- Macintosh Performa – Wikipedia
- Mac Colour Classic II (Performa 275) – 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 8, 2023
