In the early 90s, Apple introduced the Macintosh Performa 410, a computer that left an indelible mark on the company’s history. With its cutting-edge specifications, sleek design, and affordable price, the Performa 410 quickly became a sought-after device for home users and small businesses alike. Today, as this iconic machine celebrates its 30-year anniversary, let’s take a closer look at the legacy of the Macintosh Performa 410.
Released on October 18, 1993, the Macintosh Performa 410 stunned the computing world with its impressive features. Packed with a 16 MHz Motorola 68030 processor, 4 MB of RAM, an 80 MB hard drive, and a 1.44 MB floppy drive, the Performa 410 offered users a powerful computing experience. These specifications, considered cutting-edge at the time, made the Performa 410 a coveted choice for users craving both performance and style.
Despite its remarkable capabilities, the Macintosh Performa 410’s time in the spotlight was brief. Less than a month after its release, Apple made the surprising decision to discontinue the product on November 1, 1993. This abrupt discontinuation puzzled many enthusiasts, leaving them longing for more time with this innovative machine. Nevertheless, the Performa 410 had already etched its place in Apple’s rich history.
One cannot discuss the Macintosh Performa 410 without mentioning its iconic design. Encased in a compact “pizza box” case, the Performa 410 boasted a sleek and stylish look that became synonymous with Apple’s aesthetic. This design choice would go on to influence future Macintosh models, solidifying the Performa 410’s significance as a pioneer in Apple’s design language.
Today, the Macintosh Performa 410 holds a special place in the hearts of vintage Apple enthusiasts and collectors. As this beloved machine reaches its 30 year of existence, it continues to captivate with its timeless appeal. Owning a Macintosh Performa 410 is like owning a piece of history, showcasing Apple’s dedication to innovation and design. For those seeking a connection to the early days of personal computing, the Performa 410 remains an alluring collectible.
The Macintosh Performa 410 had an educational counterpart known as the LC II. This modified version of the earlier LC model featured a 68030 32-bit CPU, a 16-bit data bus, and a maximum of 10 MB RAM with virtual memory support. Despite its slower performance compared to the Mac IIx, the LC II became a popular choice for educational institutions and students seeking a reliable computing solution.
The Macintosh Performa 410 may have had a short-lived presence in the market, but its impact on Apple’s computer history is undeniable. With its powerful specifications, sleek design, and lasting influence, the Performa 410 remains a cherished piece of technology.
As we celebrate 30 year since its release, we remember the Performa 410 as a testament to Apple’s unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation and design. For those lucky enough to own this vintage gem, the Macintosh Performa 410 serves as a constant reminder of the remarkable journey of personal computing.
Macintosh Performa 410 Details
| Introduced | October 18, 1993 |
| Discontinued | November 1, 1993 |
| Model Identifier | 37 |
| Model Number | M1700 |
| Order Number | M1985LL/A |
| Original Price | $1,050 |
| Colors | Platinum |
| Weight | 8.8 Ibs. 3.991 KG |
| Dimensions | 2.9” H x 12.2” W x 15.3” D 7.36 cm H x 30.98 cm W x 38.86 cm D |
Mac Performa 410 Tech Specs
Processor
| Processor | Motorola 68030 |
| Processor Speed | 16 MHz |
| Architecture | 32-bit |
| Number of Cores | 1 |
| System Bus | 16 MHz |
| Cache | 0.25 KB L1 |
| Coprocessor | None |
Storage & Media
| Storage | 80 MB |
| Media | 1 – 1.44 MB Floppy |
Memory
| Built-in Memory | 4 MB |
| Maximum Memory | 10 MB |
| Memory Slots | 2 – 30 pin SIMMs (Group of 2) |
| Minimum Speed | 100 ns |
| ROM | Unknown |
| Interleaving Support | No |
Display
| Built-in Display | None |
Graphics
| Graphics Card | None |
| Graphics Memory | 256 KB (Upgradeable to 512 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 | 1 |
| Serial | 2 |
| SCSI | 1 – DB-25 |
| Floppy Port | None |
| Audio In | 1 – 3.5-mm mono input jack |
| Audio Out | 1 – 3.5-mm mono output jack |
| Display | 1 – DB-15 |
Software
| Original OS | System Software 7.1 |
| Maximum OS | System 7.5.5 |
| Firmware | Macintosh ROM |
Power
| Backup Battery | 3.6 V lithium |
| Maximum Continuous Power | 50 W |
| Line Voltage | Unknown |
Further Reading and References
- Macintosh Performa 410: Technical Specifications – Apple Support
- Macintosh Performa – Wikipedia
- Resurrecting a Performa 410 – Low End Mac
- Performa 410 Restoration – The Datashed
- Macintosh Performa 400 Series 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: July 9, 2023
