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ByAvatar photoNoah Morris
July 29, 2023

Power Macintosh 8100 Datasheet

In the early 1990s, Apple was at the forefront of pushing the boundaries of computer technology with its groundbreaking Power Macintosh series. Among the most notable models from this era was the Power Macintosh 8100, a computer that revolutionized personal computing and set new standards for performance and features. Join us as we take a nostalgic journey back to the year 1994 when Apple unveiled this cutting-edge machine that left a lasting mark on the tech industry.

On March 14, 1994, Apple introduced the Power Macintosh 8100, a powerhouse that boasted an array of advanced features. At its core, the 8100 was powered by the robust PowerPC 601 processor, available in three configurations: 80 MHz, 100 MHz, or an impressive 110 MHz. Coupled with 8 MB, 16 MB, or 24 MB of RAM (a significant upgrade for its time), the 8100 demonstrated exceptional speed and multitasking capabilities.

Storage capacities were equally impressive, offering users options ranging from 250 MB to a substantial 2 GB hard drive. Whether for personal use or professional tasks, the Power Macintosh 8100 proved to be a versatile workhorse, equipped with a 2x CD-ROM drive and a 1.44 MB floppy drive.

The Power Macintosh 8100’s sleek design, housed in the familiar Quadra 800 enclosure, exuded a sense of modernity and sophistication. However, the case received some criticism for being challenging to work with, as any modifications to the motherboard required extensive disassembly. Nonetheless, the computer’s expandable tower design allowed for easy upgrades and customization.

One of the most remarkable features of the 8100 was its optional video-in and video-out capabilities, distinguishing the AV models from the rest of the lineup. This innovative addition provided support for multiple monitors and offered 2 MB of VRAM for enhanced graphics performance.

Despite its initial success, the Power Macintosh 8100’s journey was relatively short-lived. In August 1995, Apple discontinued the 8100, paving the way for its successor, the Power Macintosh 8500, to carry on the torch of technological progress.

Today, as we celebrate the 30-year anniversary of the Power Macintosh 8100, it is awe-inspiring to witness the tremendous strides technology has taken since then. Although no longer in production, this classic computer remains a cherished artifact of Apple’s history, representing its commitment to innovation and excellence.

In popular culture, the Power Macintosh 8100 left a notable mark as well. In the 1995 movie “The Net,” Sandra Bullock’s character, Angela Bennett, utilized the 8100 as her primary workstation, showcasing its prominence in the tech landscape of that time.

The Power Macintosh 8100, with its groundbreaking features and high-performance capabilities, redefined the standards of computer technology in the early 1990s. Its PowerPC 601 processor, impressive RAM options, and expansive storage capacities made it a favorite among tech enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Though its time on the market was brief, the impact it left on the tech industry and the hearts of Apple fans endure to this day. As we reflect on the legacy of this iconic computer, we marvel at how far technology has come, while also fondly remembering the Power Macintosh 8100 as an exceptional testament to Apple’s pursuit of innovation and excellence in the world of computing.

Power Macintosh 8100/80AV
Source: wikipedia.org – Power Macintosh 8100/80AV

Power Macintosh 8100 Details

IntroducedMarch 14, 1994 (80 MHz)
November 3, 1994 (110 MHz)
January 3, 1995 (100 MHz)
DiscontinuedJanuary 3, 1995 (80 MHz)
October 14, 1995 (100 MHz)
August 5, 1995 (110 MHz)
Model Identifier40 (110 MHz)
55 (100 MHz)
65 (80 MHz)
Model NumberM3635
M3636
M3637
M3638
M3639
M3640
M3680
Order NumberM1884LL/A
M1880LL/A
M2199LL/A
M3079LL/A
M2284LL/A
M2297LL/A
M2293LL/A
Original Price$4,250
$4,400
$4,600
$4,800
$5,250
$5,660
$6,500
$6,700
ColorsPlatinum
Weight25 Ibs.
11.339 KG
Dimensions14” H x 7.7” W x 15.75” D
35.56 cm H x 19.55 cm W x 40 cm D

Power Mac 8100 Tech Specs

Processor

ProcessorPowerPC 601
Processor Speed80 MHz
100 MHz
110 MHz
Architecture32-bit
Number of Cores1
System Bus40 MHz
33.3 MHz
36.7 MHz
Cache32 KB L1
256 KB L2
CoprocessorBuilt-in FPU

Storage & Media

Storage250 MB
500 MB
700 MB
1 GB
2 GB
Media1 – 1.44 MB Floppy
1 – 2x CD-ROM (Optional)

Memory

Built-in Memory8 MB
16 MB
24 MB
Maximum Memory264 MB
Memory Slots8 – 72 pin SIMMs (Group of 2)
Minimum Speed80 ns
ROMUnknown
Interleaving SupportNo

Display

Built-in DisplayNone

Graphics

Graphics CardNone
Graphics Memory2 MB
4 MB
Display Connection1 – DB-15
1 – HDI-45

Expansion

Expansion Slots3 – 7″ NuBus
1 – PDS (Filled by Video or AV Card)
Hard Drive InterfaceSCSI

Connections

EthernetAAUI-15
ModemNone
Wi-FiNone
BluetoothNone
ADB1
Serial2
SCSI1 – DB-25
Floppy PortNone
Audio In1 – 3.5-mm analog input jack
Audio Out1 – 3.5-mm analog output jack
1 – Built-in speaker
Display1 – DB-15
1 – HDI-45

Software

Original OSSystem Software 7.1.2 (80 MHz)
System Software 7.5 (100 MHz and 110 MHz)
Maximum OSMac OS 9.1
FirmwareMacintosh ROM

Power

Backup Battery3.6 V lithium
Maximum Continuous Power150 W
Line Voltage100-240 V

Further Reading and References

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 29, 2023

ByAvatar photoNoah Morris
Updated on

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