The Hardware Research 604e/200 was a robust rack-mounted Mac-compatible workstation released in early 1998. It featured a 200 MHz PowerPC 604e processor, 128 MB of RAM, and a reliable SCSI-based 3.1 GB hard drive, all enclosed in a sturdy 19″ rackmount case. Like others in the series, this model was based on Apple’s Tsunami architecture and could be upgraded to dual processors for enhanced performance.
Though discontinued mid-year, the Hardware Research 604e/200 offered solid performance for its time, especially for publishing, rendering, or server-based tasks. It maintained compatibility with Classic Mac OS up to version 9.0 (unofficially), providing a reliable alternative to Apple hardware for pro users.
Hardware Research 604e/200 – Technical Specifications
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Model Name | Hardware Research 604e/200 |
| Architecture | Tsunami |
| Form Factor | 19″ Rackmount |
| Processor Type | PowerPC 604e |
| Processor Speed | 200 MHz |
| System Bus Speed | 50 MHz |
| Lookaside Bus Speed | 50 MHz |
| Level 1 Cache | 64 KB |
| Level 2 Cache | 512 KB |
| FPU | Integrated (PowerPC 604e) |
| ROM Size | 4 MB |
| Data Path | 64-bit |
| RAM Type | 70 ns 168-pin DIMM |
| Standard RAM | 128 MB |
| Maximum RAM | 1040 MB |
| RAM Slots | 8 (interleaving supported) |
| Hard Drive | 3.1 GB SCSI |
| CD-ROM | 24X |
| Floppy Drive | 1.44 MB (manual eject) |
| Video Card | ATI XCLAIM 3D with 4 MB VRAM |
| Maximum VRAM | 8 MB |
| Expansion Slots | 6 PCI |
| Expansion Bays | 1 external 5.25″ bay |
| Ethernet | AAUI, 10Base-T |
| Modem | Not included |
| Battery | 3.6V Lithium |
| Built-in Display | None |
| Dimensions (HxWxD) | 10 x 17.25 x 17.75 inches |
| Average Weight | 52 lbs |
| Original Price | $4,200 USD |
| Mac OS Compatibility | 7.5.5, 7.6.1, 8.0 to 9.0 (officially up to 8.1) |
Rack-Ready Macintosh Alternative
The Hardware Research 604e/200 stood out for its strong blend of Mac compatibility and server-grade design. Professionals in need of high-performance PowerPC computing without relying on Apple’s towers found this clone particularly attractive. Its scalability, from RAM to processor upgrades, ensured it remained relevant across evolving workflows.
