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In the fast-paced world of technology, Apple has consistently stood out for its innovation and cutting-edge designs. One such milestone in Apple’s journey is the Workgroup Server 9650, unveiled on April 21, 1997. This powerhouse was a pivotal addition to Apple’s server lineup, strategically crafted to cater to the burgeoning needs of small and medium-sized businesses.
The Workgroup Server 9650, a robust member of the Workgroup Server family, harnessed the power of the PowerPC processor. This server seamlessly delivered file, print, Internet/intranet, and applications server capabilities, specifically tailored for expanding work groups in education, business, and publishing. Its compatibility with both Mac OS and Windows made it an ideal choice for workgroups looking to establish a user-friendly and easily maintainable intranet.
Powered by a 233 MHz or 350 MHz PowerPC 604e processor, the Macintosh Workgroup Server 9650 boasted 64 MB of RAM, a 4 GB hard drive (expandable to two if desired), a 12x or 24x CD-ROM drive, a 1.44 MB floppy drive, and a 4 MB ixMicro TwinTurbo graphics card. This server, encased in the innovative “flip open” tower case design based on the Tsunami architecture, set a new standard for upgradability.
The design of the Apple Macintosh WGS 9650 showcased the evolution of tower cases, offering a user-friendly upgrade experience unparalleled by its predecessors. Its pre-installed server software added convenience for users, making it an out-of-the-box solution for businesses seeking efficiency.
Upon its release, the Workgroup Server 9650 was hailed as a powerful and reliable computing solution, with prices starting at $5,800. Small and medium-sized businesses found value in its capabilities, and Apple continued to sell the Workgroup Server 9650 until its discontinuation on March 2, 1998.
Today, the Workgroup Server 9650 stands as a 26-year-old testament to Apple’s impactful history in the server computing realm. Although discontinued, its influence on the server market is still palpable, and its legacy remains an integral part of Apple’s storied journey. Enthusiasts and tech historians alike continue to appreciate the Mac Workgroup Server 9650 for its powerful performance, innovative design, and the mark it left on Apple’s enduring legacy in the world of server computers.
Workgroup Server 9650 Details
| Introduced | April 21, 1997 (233 MHz) August 5, 1997 (350 MHz) |
| Discontinued | December 1, 1997 (233 MHz) March 2, 1998 (350 MHz) |
| Model Identifier | 67 |
| Model Number | M5433 |
| Order Number | M5646LL/A M5644LL/A M5647LL/A M5645LL/A M6167LL/A M6165LL/A M6166LL/A |
| Original Price | $5,800 $6,200 $6,800 $6,900 $7,300 $7,500 |
| Colors | Platinum |
| Weight | 35 Ibs. 15.875 KG |
| Dimensions | 17.3” H x 9.7” W x 17.3” D 43.94 cm H x 24.63 cm W x 43.94 cm D |
Workgroup Server 9650 Tech Specs
Processor
| Processor | PowerPC 604e PowerPC 604e Mach V |
| Processor Speed | 233 MHz 350 MHz |
| Architecture | 32-bit |
| Number of Cores | 1 |
| System Bus | 50 MHz |
| Cache | 64 KB L1 512 KB or 1 MB L2 |
| Coprocessor | Built-in FPU |
Storage & Media
| Storage | 1 or 2 – 4.0 GB 7200 RPM |
| Media | 1 – 1.44 MB Floppy 1 – 12x CD-ROM or 24x CD-ROM |
Memory
| Built-in Memory | 64 MB |
| Maximum Memory | 768 MB (Apple) 1.5 GB (Actual) |
| Memory Slots | 12 – 168 pin EDO or FPM DIMM |
| Minimum Speed | 70 ns |
| ROM | Unknown |
| Interleaving Support | Yes |
Display
| Built-in Display | None |
Graphics
| Graphics Card | ixMicro TwinTurbo |
| Graphics Memory | 4 MB |
| Display Connection | 1 – DB-15 |
Expansion
| Expansion Slots | 6 – PCI |
| Hard Drive Interface | SCSI |
Connections
| Ethernet | 10BASE-T and AAUI |
| Modem | None |
| Wi-Fi | None |
| Bluetooth | None |
| ADB | 1 |
| Serial | 2 |
| SCSI | 1 – DB-25 1 – SCSI-2 1 – Ultra/Wide SCSI-3 PCI card |
| Floppy Port | None |
| Infrared | 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 | Mac OS 7.6.1 |
| Maximum OS | Mac OS 9.1 |
| Firmware | Macintosh ROM |
Power
| Backup Battery | 3.6 V Lithium |
| Maximum Continuous Power | 390 W |
| Line Voltage | 100-125 V / 200-240 V AC |
Further Reading and References
- Workgroup Server 9650/233: Technical Specifications – Apple Support
- Workgroup Server 9650/350: Technical Specifications – Apple Support
- Apple Workgroup Server – Wikipedia
- Workgroup Server 9650/233 – IT History Society
- Power Macintosh 8600/ 9600 & WS 9650 Service Source (PDF) – Apple Repair Manuals
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Last updated: November 25, 2023