In the ever-evolving world of personal computing, certain devices leave an indelible mark on the industry. The Macintosh Performa 6117CD, launched in 1994, was undeniably one of those trailblazing products that redefined the tech landscape of its time.
When the Macintosh Performa 6117CD hit the market on November 1, 1994, it made an immediate impact with its impressive specifications and sleek design. Priced at a steep $2,400, it was considered a luxury item, attracting the attention of tech enthusiasts and professionals alike. The computer’s 60 MHz PowerPC 601 processor, 8 MB of RAM, 350 MB hard drive, 2x CD-ROM drive, and 1.44 MB floppy drive were top-of-the-line features at that time, empowering users to effortlessly handle everyday tasks with ease and efficiency.
Despite its cutting-edge technology, the Macintosh Performa 6117CD’s time in the limelight was relatively short-lived. Merely a year after its introduction, on July 1, 1995, Apple decided to discontinue the model. As the curtain closed on this remarkable machine, it took its place in the annals of tech history, becoming a nostalgic icon that continues to evoke fond memories among Apple fans.
Today 29 years after, the Macintosh Performa 6117CD stands as a symbol of Apple’s pursuit of innovation during the mid-’90s. With its sleek design and powerful hardware, it laid the foundation for future Macintosh models, leaving a lasting impact on the evolution of personal computing. Its legacy lives on in the hearts of tech enthusiasts who remember the thrill of using this iconic machine.
One of the standout features of the Macintosh Performa 6117CD was its comprehensive package. Alongside the computer, buyers were treated to a 15″ Apple color monitor, an external 14.4k modem, and a system-specific software bundle. This combination of hardware and software made it an all-in-one solution for users’ computing needs, further enhancing its appeal in the market.
For those with a keen interest in finance and business, the Macintosh Performa 6117CD had a special variant – the “financial” software bundle, developed in collaboration with Money Magazine. This tailored package catered to users’ financial management needs, making the 6117CD a preferred choice for professionals in the financial sector.
While the Macintosh Performa 6117CD held the spotlight, it was not the only contender in its family. The Performa 6115CD, nearly identical in functionality, lacked only the “financial” software bundle found in the 6117CD variant. Additionally, the business world had its eyes on the Power Macintosh 6100, and the server version, Workgroup Server 6150, showcased Apple’s commitment to diversifying its product lineup.
The Macintosh Performa 6117CD was more than just a computer; it was a glimpse into the future of personal computing. With its cutting-edge technology, sleek design, and specialized variants, it carved a niche in tech history that is celebrated even today. As we reflect on this remarkable piece of tech nostalgia, it serves as a testament to Apple’s relentless pursuit of innovation and its ever-enduring impact on the world of technology.
Macintosh Performa 6117CD Details
| Introduced | November 1, 1994 |
| Discontinued | July 1, 1995 |
| Model Identifier | 75 |
| Model Number | M1596 |
| Order Number | M3436LL/A |
| Original Price | $2,400 |
| Colors | Platinum |
| Weight | 14 Ibs. 6.350 KG |
| Dimensions | 3.4” H x 16.3” W x 15.6” D 8.63 cm H x 41.4 cm W x 39.62 cm D |
Mac Performa 6117CD Tech Specs
Processor
| Processor | PowerPC 601 |
| Processor Speed | 60 MHz |
| Architecture | 32-bit |
| Number of Cores | 1 |
| System Bus | 30 MHz |
| Cache | 32 KB L1 256 KB L2 (Optional) |
| Coprocessor | Built-in FPU |
Storage & Media
| Storage | 350 MB |
| Media | 1 – 1.44 MB Floppy 1 – 2x CD-ROM (Optional for AV models) |
Memory
| Built-in Memory | 8 MB |
| Maximum Memory | 132 MB (Actual) 72 MB (Apple) |
| Memory Slots | 2 – 72 pin SIMMs (Group of 2) |
| Minimum Speed | 80 ns |
| ROM | Unknown |
| Interleaving Support | No |
Display
| Built-in Display | None |
Graphics
| Graphics Card | None |
| Graphics Memory | 2 MB DRAM |
| Display Connection | 1 – HDI-45 |
Expansion
| Expansion Slots | 1 – 7″ PDS or NuBus |
| Hard Drive Interface | SCSI |
Connections
| Ethernet | AAUI-15 |
| Modem | 28.8k (external) |
| Bluetooth | None |
| ADB | 1 |
| 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 1 – Built-in speaker |
| Display | 1 – HDI-45 |
Software
| Original OS | System Software 7.5 |
| Maximum OS | Mac OS 9.1 |
| Firmware | Macintosh ROM |
Power
| Backup Battery | 3.6 V lithium |
| Maximum Continuous Power | 210 W |
| Line Voltage | 100-240 V |
Further Reading and References
- Macintosh Performa 6117CD: Technical Specifications – Apple Support
- Macintosh Performa – Wikipedia
- Macintosh Performa 6117CD – IT History Society
- Macintosh Performa 6100 Series Service Source – 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: August 4, 2023
