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Apple has a storied history of pushing the boundaries of computer innovation, and one remarkable chapter in this journey is the Macintosh Performa 6260CD. Released in 1996 as part of the Performa series, this personal computer was nothing short of groundbreaking for its time, showcasing Apple’s commitment to excellence.
When the Macintosh Performa 6260CD hit the market on June 19, 1996, it instantly turned heads with its impressive specifications. At its core was a blazing-fast 100 MHz PowerPC 603e processor, a true marvel of engineering at the time. Paired with 8 MB of RAM and an 800 MB hard drive, it was a computing powerhouse that promised to redefine the way users interacted with technology.
The inclusion of a 4x CD-ROM drive was a forward-looking move, as CD technology was still emerging as the new standard for software distribution and multimedia content. And let’s not forget the trusty 1.44 MB floppy drive – an essential component in an era when floppy disks were the primary means of data transfer.
Regrettably, the Macintosh Performa 6260CD’s journey was short-lived, as Apple decided to discontinue it on December 1, 1996. However, even in its brief existence, it left an indelible mark on the world of personal computing. The Performa 6260CD epitomized Apple’s dedication to innovation and quality, showcasing their relentless pursuit of excellence in every product they crafted.
Fast forward 27 years, and the Macintosh Performa 6260CD is a nostalgic treasure trove, offering a mesmerizing glimpse into the past of personal computing. It’s astonishing how far technology has advanced since its release, yet this vintage gem continues to captivate the hearts of Apple aficionados and vintage computer enthusiasts alike.
The Performa 6260CD might not have been available in North America, but its impact resonated globally. It was distributed in Asia and Europe, where it found a devoted following among users who craved the Apple experience.
The Macintosh Performa 6260CD may have had a short-lived existence, but its legacy lives on. It represents an era when computing was undergoing rapid transformation, and Apple was at the forefront of that revolution. Today, as we marvel at our sleek and powerful modern Macs, we can’t help but look back at the Performa 6260CD with a sense of reverence and nostalgia. It’s a testament to Apple’s enduring commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation and shaping the future of technology.
Macintosh Performa 6260CD Details
| Introduced | June 19, 1996 |
| Discontinued | December 1, 1996 |
| Model Identifier | 42 |
| Model Number | M3076 |
| Order Number | M5144J/A |
| Original Price | Unknown |
| Colors | Platinum |
| Weight | 19 Ibs. 8.618 KG |
| Dimensions | 4.3” H x 12.6” W x 16.5” D 10.92 cm H x 32 cm W x 41.91 cm D |
Mac Performa 6260 Tech Specs
Processor
| Processor | PowerPC 603e |
| Processor Speed | 100 MHz |
| Architecture | 32-bit |
| Number of Cores | 1 |
| System Bus | 40 MHz |
| Cache | 32 KB L1 256 KB L2 |
| Coprocessor | Built-in FPU |
Storage & Media
| Storage | 800 MB |
| Media | 1 – 1.44 MB Floppy 1 – 4x CD-ROM |
Memory
| Built-in Memory | 8 MB |
| Maximum Memory | 64 MB |
| Memory Slots | 2 – 72 pin SIMM |
| Minimum Speed | 80 ns |
| ROM | Unknown |
| Interleaving Support | No |
Display
| Built-in Display | None |
Graphics
| Graphics Card | None |
| Graphics Memory | 1 MB |
| Display Connection | 1 – DB-15 |
Expansion
| Expansion Slots | 1 – LC PDS 1 – Comm 1 – Video I/O 1 – TV |
| Hard Drive Interface | IDE |
Connections
| Ethernet | None |
| Modem | 14.4k (external) |
| Wi-Fi | None |
| 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 – DB-15 |
Software
| Original OS | System Software 7.5.1 |
| Maximum OS | Mac OS 9.1 |
| Firmware | Macintosh ROM |
Power
| Backup Battery | 4.5 V Alkaline |
| Maximum Continuous Power | 55 W |
| Line Voltage | Unknown |
Further Reading and References
- Macintosh Performa 6260CD: Technical Specifications – Apple Support
- Macintosh Performa – Wikipedia
- Macintosh Performa 6260CD – IT History Society
- Revisiting the Past: A Look Back at the x200 Series – Low End Mac
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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: September 17, 2023
