Macintosh Quadra 840AV Macintosh Quadra 840AV

Macintosh Quadra 840AV Explained

In the summer of 1993, Apple introduced a groundbreaking addition to their Macintosh Quadra series – the Quadra 840AV. Despite its relatively short lifespan of just over a year, this personal computer left a lasting impact on the world of personal computing. Join us as we take a trip down memory lane and explore the features and significance of the Macintosh Quadra 840AV.

At the heart of the Quadra 840AV was its powerful 40 MHz Motorola 68040 processor, which delivered impressive speed and efficiency for its time. Paired with 8 MB or 16 MB of RAM and a range of storage options, including a 230 MB, 500 MB, or 1 GB hard drive, this machine was a force to be reckoned with. With a CD-ROM drive, a 1.44 MB floppy drive, and an Audio-Visual card featuring RCA video and S-video I/O, the Quadra 840AV provided a complete multimedia experience.

With a starting price of $3,550, the Quadra 840AV was positioned as a high-end computer targeting professionals in the video and audio industries. Its powerful capabilities made it an ideal tool for tasks such as video editing, graphic design, and multimedia production. Back in the early ’90s, this machine was a symbol of cutting-edge technology and performance.

While the Quadra 840AV had a relatively short lifespan, it made a lasting impact on the Macintosh Quadra series. Sharing its case with the Quadra 800 and incorporating the AV circuitry from the Centris 660av, it represented a culmination of Apple’s technological advancements at the time. Running a 40 MHz CPU, it stood as Apple’s fastest 68040-based computer ever.

One standout feature of the Quadra 840AV was its use of the AT&T DSP chip, clocked at 66 MHz, making it even faster than its predecessor, the Centris 660AV. This, combined with the GeoPort high-speed serial port, made the Quadra 840AV and the 660AV the sole members of the Quadra family to boast these advanced capabilities.

One popular application for the AV Quadras, including the Quadra 840AV, was the ability to add text and graphics to videos. This opened up new creative possibilities for professionals in the video production industry, allowing them to enhance their projects with visually appealing elements.

Today, the Macintosh Quadra 840AV holds a special place in the hearts of tech enthusiasts and collectors. Though 30 years old, this vintage computer continues to captivate those who appreciate the evolution of personal computing. Its limited production run and unique features make it a cherished item among Apple enthusiasts and a testament to the company’s innovative spirit.

The Macintosh Quadra 840AV may have had a relatively short-lived existence, but its impact on the world of personal computers was significant. With its powerful processor, advanced multimedia capabilities, and targeted appeal to professionals, it represented the cutting-edge technology of its time. While it may no longer be a mainstream computing option, the Quadra 840AV remains a cherished piece of tech history and a reminder of Apple’s relentless pursuit of innovation.

Mac Quadra 840AV
Source: pinterest.com – Mac Quadra 840AV

Macintosh Quadra 840AV Details

IntroducedJuly 29, 1993
DiscontinuedJuly 18, 1994
Model Identifier78
Model NumberM9020
Order NumberM9025LL/A
M9028LL/A
M1836LL/A
M1837LL/A
M1838LL/A
Original Price$3,550
$4,100
$5,100
ColorsPlatinum
Weight25.3 Ibs.
11.475 KG
Dimensions14” H x 7.7” W x 15.75” D
35.56 cm H x 19.55 cm W x 40 cm D

Mac Quadra 840AV Tech Specs

Processor

ProcessorMotorola 68040
Processor Speed40 MHz
Architecture32-bit
Number of Cores1
System Bus40 MHz
Cache8 KB L1
Coprocessor66 MHz AT&T 3210 digital signal processor

Storage & Media

Storage230 MB
500 MB
1 GB
Media1 – CD-ROM
1 – 1.44 MB Floppy

Memory

Built-in Memory8 MB
16 MB
Maximum Memory128 MB
Memory Slots4 – 72 pin SIMMs
Minimum Speed60 ns
ROMUnknown
Interleaving SupportYes

Display

Built-in DisplayNone

Graphics

Graphics CardNone
Graphics Memory1 MB
4 MB
Display Connection1 – DB-15

Expansion

Expansion Slots3 – NuBus
1 – DAV
Hard Drive InterfaceSCSI

Connections

EthernetAAUI-15
ModemNone
ADB1
Serial2
SCSI1 – DB-25
Floppy PortNone
Audio In1 – 3.5-mm stereo input jack
Audio Out1 – 3.5-mm stereo output jack
Display1 – DB-15

Software

Original OSSystem Software 7.1
Maximum OSMac OS 8.1
FirmwareMacintosh ROM

Power

Backup Battery3.6 V lithium
Maximum Continuous Power200 W
Line VoltageUnknown

Further Reading and References

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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 7, 2023