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In the fast-paced world of technology, it’s essential to take a moment and appreciate the game-changers that paved the way for today’s innovations. One such trailblazer was the Apple Macintosh PowerBook 1400cs, which emerged on the scene on November 20, 1996. A part of the iconic Macintosh PowerBook series, this remarkable notebook set out to redefine the way people use computers. With a starting price of $2,000, the PowerBook 1400cs was tailored to cater to professionals seeking a portable yet powerful computing solution.
Back in its heyday, the PowerBook 1400cs was a powerhouse. It came equipped with a 117 MHz / 133 MHz or 166 MHz PowerPC 603e processor, an 11.3-inch color DualScan LCD display, 12 MB or 16 MB of RAM, and 750 MB / 1 GB or 1.3 GB hard drive options. The inclusion of a 1.44 MB floppy drive and a 6x CD-ROM / 8x CD-ROM or 12x CD-ROM drive made it a formidable choice for professionals with demanding workloads.
This notebook was a visual delight too. The built-in display supported 16-bit color, and it could even handle up to 8-bit color on an external monitor with an optional video card. For those who required top-tier performance and visuals, the PowerBook 1400cs didn’t disappoint.
The PowerBook 1400cs shared similarities with the PowerBook 1400c, but the latter boasted a higher-quality active-matrix display. What set this series apart were its groundbreaking features. The PowerBook 1400 series was the first in the PowerBook line to introduce an internal CD-ROM drive, “stackable” memory modules, and “BookCovers” that allowed users to customize the look of their machines. These innovations set the stage for future advancements in portable computing.
Despite its remarkable features and innovations, the PowerBook 1400cs was discontinued on May 6, 1998, after a relatively short two-year run in the market. However, its impact remains etched in the memories of those who had the privilege of using it. The PowerBook 1400cs holds a special place in the annals of technology history, remembered fondly for its groundbreaking contributions.
Today marks 27 years since the Macintosh PowerBook 1400cs first graced the tech world. It’s a perfect opportunity to look back and marvel at the strides we’ve made in technology. Modern computers are faster, more potent, and more affordable than ever before, thanks to relentless innovation. However, the PowerBook 1400cs remains a symbol of Apple’s unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of technology.
In a world where technology evolves at breakneck speed, it’s essential to pay homage to the pioneers who set the stage for the future. The Apple Macintosh PowerBook 1400cs was a true game-changer in the realm of notebooks. Its power, innovation, and impact continue to resonate, reminding us of Apple’s enduring legacy in the world of technology. As we celebrate its 27-year anniversary, let’s remember the PowerBook 1400cs as a timeless classic that left an indelible mark on the tech industry.
Macintosh PowerBook 1400cs Details
| Introduced | November 20, 1996 (117 MHz) July 14, 1997 (133 MHz) December 17, 1997 (166 MHz) |
| Discontinued | July 14, 1997 (117 MHz) December 13, 1997 (133 MHz) May 6, 1998 (166 MHz) |
| Model Identifier | 310 |
| Model Number | M3571 |
| Order Number | M5287LL/A M5605LL/A M6274LL/A |
| Original Price | $2,000 $2,500 $2,900 |
| Colors | Dark Grey |
| Weight | 6.7 Ibs. 3.039 KG |
| Dimensions | 2” H x 11.5” W x 9” D 5.08 cm H x 29.21 cm W x 22.86 cm D |
PowerBook 1400cs Tech Specs
Processor
| Processor | PowerPC 603e |
| Processor Speed | 117 MHz 133 MHz 166 MHz |
| Architecture | 32-bit |
| Number of Cores | 1 |
| System Bus | 33.3 MHz |
| Cache | 32 KB L1 128 KB L2 (on later models) |
| Coprocessor | Built-in FPU |
Storage & Media
| Storage | 750 MB 1.0 GB 1.3 GB |
| Media | 1 – 1.44 MB floppy 1 – 6x CD-ROM or 8x CD-ROM or 12x CD-ROM |
Memory
| Built-in Memory | 12 MB 16 MB |
| Maximum Memory | 64 MB |
| Memory Slots | 1 – PowerBook 1400 |
| Minimum Speed | 70 ns |
| ROM | Unknown |
| Interleaving Support | No |
Display
| Built-in Display | 11.3″ DualScan color FTSN Display |
| Resolutions | 800 x 600 |
Graphics
| Graphics Card | None |
| Graphics Memory | 1 MB |
| Display Connection | 1 – Mini-15 (Optional) |
Expansion
| Expansion Slots | 2 – Type II or 1 – Type III PC Card |
| Hard Drive Interface | ATA |
| Bays | 1 – 5.25-inch bay |
Connections
| Wi-Fi | None |
| Ethernet | None |
| Modem | None |
| Bluetooth | None |
| Infrared | 1 – up to 230k |
| ADB | 1 |
| Serial | 1 |
| SCSI | 1 – HDI-30 |
| Floppy Port | None |
| Audio In | 1 – 3.5-mm analog input jack 1 – Built-in microphone |
| Audio Out | 1 – 3.5-mm analog output jack 1 – Built-in speaker |
| Display | 1 – Mini-15 |
Keyboard and trackpad
| Keyboard | Built-in Full-size 77-key (U.S.) or 78-key (ISO) incl. 12 function and 4 arrow keys |
| Trackpad | Built-in Solid-state trackpad (Double-tap and drag) |
Software
| Original OS | System Software 7.5.2 |
| Maximum OS | Mac OS 9.1 |
| Firmware | Macintosh ROM |
Power
| System Battery | NiMH |
| Backup Battery | 3V Lithium (922-2429) |
| Maximum Continuous Power | 40 W |
| Line Voltage | Unknown |
| Power Adapter | Unknown |
Further Reading and References
- Macintosh PowerBook 1400cs/117: Technical Specifications – Apple Support
- Macintosh PowerBook 1400cs/133: Technical Specifications – Apple Support
- Macintosh PowerBook 1400cs/166: Technical Specifications – Apple Support
- PowerBook 1400 – Wikipedia
- PowerBook 1400 – Low End Mac
- Apple Macintosh Powerbook 1400cs/166 – OldCrap
- Macintosh Powerbook 1400cs/117 Review – MyMac
- PowerBook 1400 Service Source (PDF) – Apple Repair Manuals
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Last updated: September 24, 2023