A collection of potentially - Macintosh IIcx unveiled
Author: from AppleLink
Date: April, 1989
Keywords: cx introduced new computer hardware release announcement announce
Text: Macintosh IIcx unveiled From AppleLink SAN FRANCISCO -- Apple Computer Inc. March 7 introduced the newest member of its Macintosh(R) personal computer family -- the Macintosh IIcx. The versatile IIcx features 68030 performance, three NuBus expansion slots and a small, modular design. The Macintosh IIcx is the third new Macintosh announced in the past six months that features full 32-bit 68030 and 68882 microprocessors and Apple's SuperDrive, which allows users to easily access non-Macintosh disks. The IIcx system's performance and expandability, plus its small footprint -- about the size of a typewriter -- make it an adaptable system that will appeal to many of the different markets that Apple serves. The feature that distinguishes the Macintosh IIcx from the Macintosh II and IIx is its flexible product design. Its small footprint takes up less space on the desk, and its mounting flexibility base -- side or from a mounting bracket -- helps it fit into any work environment. In addition, the new IIcx is easy to service and configure. Users can disassemble the entire system after removing a single screw, making it simple to reach critical components such as RAM, ROM and disk drives. As with all members of the Macintosh product family, the IIcx was designed to use the same software architecture. This allows customers to use the same applications and data files on any Macintosh model. In addition, like other members of the modular Macintosh product family, the IIcx shares features such as color QuickDraw, NuBus architecture, stereo sound capabilities and an optional internal 3.5-inch half-height hard disk. And, like the Macintosh IIx and compact Macintosh SE/30, the IIcx features a 68030 microprocessor, a 68882 math coprocessor and a 1.4MB SuperDrive (FDHD -- Floppy Drive High Density) -- a 3.5-inch floppy disk drive that can read and write to non-Macintosh formats, and the ability to use ROM SIMMs. A new capability introduced with Macintosh IIcx is auto-restart, which allows the system to restart itself in the event of a power outage. ''The Macintosh IIcx is important for Apple because it combines the flexibility of our open architecture systems with a small size,'' said Jean-Louis Gassee, president of Apple Products. ''With this combination of features, we expect the Macintosh IIcx to have very broad appeal. ''Together with the Macintosh II and IIx, the IIcx strengthens the product line and extends the range of options for users who are interested in considering modular Macintosh systems,'' he added. Technical Specifications The Macintosh IIcx system's 68030 runs at 16MHz, as does its 80-bit 68882 math coprocessor.The 68030 has separate 256-byte caches for data and instructions, plus a built-in Page Memory Management Unit (PMMU) used by advanced multitasking operating systems such as A/UX, Apple's UNIX system. Three high-performance NuBus slots allow easy expansion. Virtually all 32-bit expansion cards designed for the Macintosh II and IIx are compatible. NuBus expansion cards are currently available for external monitors, networking, host connectivity, memory and a variety of specialized coprocessing applications. The IIcx is compatible with Macintosh II and IIx software, and the high-capacity SuperDrive works with Apple File Exchange to make the system compatible in a multivendor environment; able to read and write MS-DOS files. The logic board features 256K ROMs. In addition, there is a slot for future ROM SIMMs (Single In-line Memory Modules) making future expansion or service easy. The Macintosh IIcx can be configured with 1MB to 8MB of RAM on the logic board (using 1MB SIMMs). In addition to the usual complement of Macintosh ports (two RS232/422, two ADB [Apple Desktop Bus], SCSI and a stereo audio port), the IIcx features an external floppy disk drive port. Besides the built-in SuperDrive, the system can accommodate either 40MB or 80MB 3.5-inch half-height hard disks. Each Macintosh IIcx includes a mouse, System Software 6.0.3 (includes Apple File Exchange), HyperCard software, all documentation and SuperDrive. Keyboard and other peripherals are sold separately. Suggested retail prices for typical configurations: 1MB RAM/SuperDrive (FDHD) $4,669 1MB RAM/40MB Hard Disk $5,369 4MB RAM/80MB Hard Disk. $7,069 4MB RAM/80MB Hard Disk(A/UX installed) $7,552 Apple Press Release (3-7-89)
Copyright © april, 1989 by from AppleLink