The Macintosh Powerbook 100

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PowerBook 100

The first of Apple's truly portable Mac's, the PowerBook 100 had basically the same processor as the old Mac Portable. The 100 was well received despite its slow processor, passive-matrix screen, and lack of internal floppy drive. It originally sold for $2,500

The PowerBook 100 was released alongside the 140 and the 170. While these two models were based on the same motherboard, the 100 had a more simple motherboard design, and was desiged and manufactured by Sony for Apple.

Got a 100? Join PowerBook 100 List - discussion forum for 040 Macs
Looking For Used Macs? Join the LEM Swap List

PowerBook 100 Specs

Codename: Asahi, Derringer, Rosebud
CPU: MC68HC000
CPU speed: 16 Mhz
FPU: None
motherboard RAM: 2 MB
maximum RAM: 8MB
number of sockets: 1 -- unique
minimum speed: 100 ns
ROM: 256 k
L1 cache: n/a
L2 cache: n/a
data path: 16 bit
bus speed: 16 Mhz
slots: modem
SCSI: HDI-30
Serial Ports: 1
ADB: 1
Floppy: HDI-20 port
HD: 20-40 MB
CD-ROM: none
Screen: Passive Matrix 1 bit (Black & White) 640x400
Sound Output: mono 8 bit
Sound Input: none
Ethernet: none
Gestalt ID: 24
Power: 17 Watts
Weight: 5.1 lbs.
Dimensions: 1.8" H x 11" W x 8.5" D
Min System Software: 6.0.8L (shipped with 7.0.1)
Max System Software: 7.5.5
introduced: October 1991
terminated: August 1992
Current value: $20

Upgrades

Check out my Mac store for parts!
The PowerBook 100 FAQ page
Apple Specs
PB 100 memory pricing

Internet

Serial port normally restricted to 57.6 kbps; use of a 56k modem may be limited.
Start here for internet info on a 100
Get Your Compact Mac On the Web - everything you need.
Worldshare has free internet for 68k Macs - Mac Plus or up. No banners, no proprietary software to download. (Requires minimum $10 donation to the charity of your choice, also requires filling out 1 survey a month. Not available in all cities).
Tips For Browsing On Older Macs
Info About Browsers On Older Macs
Surf the web through another Mac - Mac Plus or up
ZTerm HOW-TO. Connect to Unix hosts or Macs and PC's with this terminal emulation program.
Tips on using Eudora on older Macs
Sue Korlan's Internet FAQ - tips and tricks on getting online and staying online
Disc image of system 6.0.8 with Eudora 1.3.1 - use email while booted off a floppy
Remember to keep the battery charged or it will die forever.
The 100 has no termination power - you'll need a terminator on your scsi chain or a terminated device.

Software

The 100 runs faster with system 6.08
Apps that run under system 6.x

Uses

Word Processing
Web server
Email
HyperCard programming for kids
Learn How To Type
Play old games
Learn Unix
Play network games
Paint programs for kids
Animation creation with HyperCard, Director, VideoWorks (last two are out of print)
Clock
Datase, mailing list, recipes with Filemaker 1-3, HyperCard

Some content used ith permission from Apple_history.com.Some content used ith permission from Apple_history.com.