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Apple has always been synonymous with innovation and sleek design, and its rich history is filled with iconic products that have shaped the technology landscape. One such product that holds a special place in the hearts of tech enthusiasts is the Macintosh Quadra 605. Launched in October 1993, this personal computer pushed boundaries and set new standards in its era. Let’s take a nostalgic journey back in time and explore the legacy of this groundbreaking machine.
Priced at $900, the Macintosh Quadra 605 was an impressive computing powerhouse that catered to the demanding tasks of its time. Equipped with a 25 MHz Motorola 68LC040 processor, 4 MB or 8 MB of RAM, and a choice of 80 MB, 160 MB, or 250 MB hard drive, this machine was considered top-of-the-line in 1993. Additionally, it featured a 1.44 MB Floppy drive, which was a standard storage medium back then.
While these specifications may not dazzle us today, it’s important to recognize the impact they had in revolutionizing the computing experience of the early 90s. The Macintosh Quadra 605 proved to be a reliable workhorse for professionals and tech enthusiasts alike, who marveled at its capabilities.
Despite its significance in the industry, the Macintosh Quadra 605 had a relatively short lifespan and was discontinued in October 1994. Nevertheless, its impact left a lasting impression on the world of computing. Today, it stands as a collectible item cherished by those who appreciate the pioneering spirit of Apple.
As we celebrate the 29 years since the release of the Macintosh Quadra 605, we can’t help but marvel at the advancements technology has made since its introduction. While this iconic machine may not keep up with the demands of modern-day computing, it symbolizes Apple’s commitment to pushing boundaries and delivering cutting-edge technology to consumers.
The Macintosh Quadra 605 was part of a broader lineup that included the Macintosh LC 475 and the Macintosh Performa 475. Apple’s naming convention for these models reflected their target markets – Quadra for business, LC for education, and Performa for home use. The Performa 475 and 476 were sold in department and electronics stores, while the Quadra was available through authorized Apple resellers.
The Macintosh Quadra 605 holds a special place in Apple’s rich history, showcasing the company’s relentless pursuit of innovation. While it may have been short-lived, its impact cannot be underestimated. As we reflect on how far technology has come since 1993, we owe a debt of gratitude to the Macintosh Quadra 605 for paving the way for the remarkable devices we enjoy today.
Macintosh Quadra 605 Details
| Introduced | October 21, 1993 |
| Discontinued | October 17, 1994 |
| Model Identifier | 94 |
| Model Number | M1476 |
| Order Number | M1821LL/A M1821LL/A |
| Original Price | $900 $1,300 |
| 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 Quadra 605 Tech Specs
Processor
| Processor | Motorola 68LC040 |
| Processor Speed | 25 MHz |
| Architecture | 32-bit |
| Number of Cores | 1 |
| System Bus | 25 MHz |
| Cache | 8 KB L1 |
| Coprocessor | None |
Storage & Media
| Storage | 80 MB 160 MB 250 MB |
| Media | 1 – 1.44 MB Floppy |
Memory
| Built-in Memory | 4 MB 8 MB |
| Maximum Memory | 132 MB (Actual) 36 MB (Apple) |
| Memory Slots | 1 – 72 pin SIMM |
| Minimum Speed | 80 ns |
| ROM | Unknown |
| Interleaving Support | No |
Display
| Built-in Display | None |
Graphics
| Graphics Card | None |
| Graphics Memory | 512 KB (Upgradeable to 1 MB via two sockets) |
| Display Connection | 1 – DB-15 |
Expansion
| Expansion Slots | 1 – LC III 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 stereo output jack |
| Display | 1 – DB-15 |
Software
| Original OS | System Software 7.1 |
| Maximum OS | Mac OS 8.1 |
| Firmware | Macintosh ROM |
Power
| Backup Battery | 3.6 V lithium |
| Maximum Continuous Power | 30 W |
| Line Voltage | Unknown |
Further Reading and References
- Macintosh Quadra 605: Technical Specifications – Apple Support
- Macintosh Quadra 605 – Wikipedia
- Quadra 605 – Low End Mac
- Macintosh LC Series/ Quadra 605 Service Source (PDF) – Apple Repair Manuals
- Apple Macintosh Quadra 605 Brochure (PDF) – 1000Bit
- MACINTOSH QUADRA 605 – MAL
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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: July 15, 2023
