The Hardware Research 604e/250 was a high-performance PowerPC-based workstation released in January 1998. Designed for users seeking Macintosh compatibility in a 19-inch rackmount format, this model featured a 250 MHz PowerPC 604e processor, and could be upgraded to a dual-CPU configuration using a daughtercard.
With up to 128 MB of RAM at launch and expansion capability up to 1.04 GB, the 604e/250 was ideal for graphics-heavy workflows and studio environments. Storage included a 3.1 GB SCSI hard drive, and display output came via a 4 MB ATI XCLAIM 3D graphics card.
This system was built on Apple’s Tsunami architecture, offering enhanced speed with a 50 MHz system and lookaside bus, and robust I/O including 6 PCI slots and legacy Mac networking ports.
Hardware Research 604e/250 – Specifications
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Model Name | Hardware Research 604e/250 |
| Architecture | Tsunami |
| Form Factor | 19″ Rackmount |
| Processor Type | PowerPC 604e (Single) |
| Processor Speed | 250 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 | 64 MB or 128 MB |
| Maximum RAM | 1040 MB |
| RAM Slots | 8 (interleaving supported for faster access) |
| 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 free 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 | $4,550 or $5,000 USD (depending on configuration) |
| Mac OS Compatibility | 7.5.5, 7.6.1, 8.0 to 9.0 (officially up to 8.1) |
Key Features and Upgrade Potential
The Hardware Research 604e/250 served as a flexible platform for users who needed rackmountable Mac OS power without dual CPU overhead out of the box. It featured upgradeability to dual processors, wide memory expandability, and six PCI slots for additional cards—making it an efficient choice for multimedia studios and server use during its brief production run (discontinued in June 1998).
