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Macintosh PowerBook 540c
Color version of the Macintosh PowerBook 540.
The Macintosh PowerBook 520 and PowerBook 540 computers are the first of a new generation of all-in-one notebook computers featuring the powerful Motorola MC68040 microprocessor, color displays, integrated communications architecture, and other advanced features. Inside the computer’s contoured case are spaces for two rechargeable batteries, a new high-speed modem, and a processor-direct slot for expansion cards.
The modular design of these new computers offers new opportunities for developers to expand beyond traditional add-on products by integrating new devices within the computer’s case. This modular design also makes it easier to upgrade the system with newer, faster, low-power microprocessors as they become available.
General Information
Introduced in May 1994 alongside the 520c, the PowerBook 540 was the most powerful PowerBook of its time. The 540 was priced at $3,160,and the 540c cost $4,840.
CPU
Motorola MC68LC040 running at 66/33 MHz.
The MC68LC040 uses two processor clocks: one for the system bus and another, at twice the speed, for the internal circuits. Thus, an MC68LC040 with a system bus clock of 33 MHz runs its internal processor at 66 MHz.
Memory
Random-access memory (RAM): built-in memory consists of 4 MB of low-power, self-refreshing dynamic RAM (DRAM).
RAM expansion: support for RAM expansion cards of up to 32 MB, for a total of 36 MB of RAM.
Read-only memory (ROM): 2 MB.
Upgrades
Power
Batteries: one or two PowerBook Intelligent Batteries. The batteries are 9.6-V, 1.9-ampere-hour NiMH rechargeable batteries with built-in processors that communicate with the computer’s Power Manager to measure battery charge and maximize battery life.
Power supply: an external wall-mounted recharger/power adapter, included with the computer. The power adapter accepts any worldwide standard voltage from 100–240 VAC at 50–60 Hz. The power adapter can charge two batteries in two hours while the computer is shut down or in sleep mode, or in four hours while it is operating.
Notes
- The PowerBook 500 series introduced the trackpad as opposed to the trackball for mouse control.
- The PowerBook 500 series supports hot swap expansion bays for PCMCIA slots, extra battery, etc.
- The lid hatch is fragile and can be broken somewhat easily.