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In the ever-evolving landscape of personal computing, there are milestones that stand as a testament to the rapid pace of technological advancement. January 27, 1996, marked one such milestone with the arrival of Apple’s Macintosh Performa 6310CD, a machine that not only redefined the mid-range market but also left an indelible mark on the trajectory of computing history. Join us as we journey back to a time when a 100 MHz processor and a 1.2 GB hard drive were cutting-edge marvels, and the Performa 6310CD was the star of the show.
Imagine a world where a personal computer wasn’t just a device, but a gateway to limitless possibilities. Priced at $2,800, the Macintosh Performa 6310CD emerged as a symbol of this digital promise. With a sleek design that hinted at the future while paying homage to the past, it instantly captured the imagination of tech enthusiasts and professionals alike.
Under the hood, the Performa 6310CD roared with a 100 MHz PowerPC 603e processor, 16 MB of RAM, a 1.2 GB hard drive, a 4x CD-ROM drive, and a 1.44 MB floppy drive. While these specifications may appear quaint by today’s standards, they were the epitome of high-performance computing back then. From tackling complex spreadsheets to indulging in immersive CD-ROM gaming experiences, the Performa 6310CD excelled on all fronts.
The Macintosh Performa 6310CD might have had a short-lived presence, but its impact endures. Just nine months after its debut, on October 1, 1996, the curtain fell on its production, leaving behind a legacy that continues to resonate with tech enthusiasts and historians alike. Today, as the Performa 6310CD turns 27, it serves as a nostalgic reminder of the era when floppy disks and pixelated graphics were the norm.
While the Performa 6310CD may be considered a relic by today’s standards, it was an integral part of Apple’s journey toward innovation. This machine was more than just hardware; it was a stepping stone toward the creation of future computing marvels. The Performa series paved the way for subsequent models, setting the stage for Apple’s continued dominance in the market and its commitment to delivering powerful, forward-thinking computers.
Distinguishing itself from its North American sibling, the Performa 6310CD shipped in Europe and Asia. It wasn’t just a computer; it was a bridge connecting different continents through the power of technology. Its 15″ Apple color monitor added a visual dimension to this transcontinental journey, enhancing the user experience and underscoring Apple’s commitment to detail and design.
In retrospect, the Macintosh Performa 6310CD was more than a personal computer; it was a symbol of an era defined by rapid technological progress. It showcased Apple’s dedication to pushing boundaries and shaping the future of personal computing. As we celebrate its 27-year anniverssary, let’s tip our hats to this pioneering machine that left an indelible mark on the annals of tech history.
Macintosh Performa 6310CD Details
| Introduced | January 27, 1996 |
| Discontinued | October 1, 1996 |
| Model Identifier | 42 |
| Model Number | M3076 |
| Order Number | M4425LL/A |
| Original Price | $2,800 |
| 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 6310CD 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 | 1.2 GB |
| Media | 1 – 1.44 MB Floppy 1 – 4x CD-ROM |
Memory
| Built-in Memory | 16 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 | None |
| 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 7.5.3 |
| 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 6310CD: Technical Specifications – Apple Support
- Macintosh Performa – Wikipedia
- Revisiting the Past: A Look Back at the x200 Series – Low End Mac
- Macintosh Performa 6310CD – IT History Society
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Last updated: August 31, 2023