The VisionPower PowerMax Pro 225 is a robust Macintosh-compatible system based on the Tsunami architecture, mirroring the SuperMac S900/225. Featuring a 225 MHz PowerPC 604e processor, 48 MB of RAM, a 4.0 GB SCSI hard drive, and a built-in Zip drive, this tower offered significant expandability and upgrade potential, including dual-processor support via a secondary daughtercard slot.
Released primarily in Asian markets in early 1998, this model provided high performance in a standard PC-style tower case. Its configuration made it attractive to professional users needing a powerful, customizable system capable of running Mac OS 7.5.3 to 9.0.
VisionPower PowerMax Pro 225 – Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Model | VisionPower PowerMax Pro 225 |
| Processor | PowerPC 604e, 225 MHz |
| System Bus Speed | 45 MHz |
| Lookaside Bus Speed | 45 MHz |
| Processor Upgrade | Daughtercard (ASPD, dual CPU capable) |
| ROM Size | 4 MB |
| Data Path | 64-bit |
| Level 1 Cache | 64 KB |
| Level 2 Cache | 512 KB |
| RAM Type | 70 ns 168-pin DIMM |
| Standard RAM | 48 MB |
| Maximum RAM | 1040 MB |
| Motherboard RAM | 16 MB |
| RAM Slots | 8 (interleaving supported) |
| Video Memory | 8 MB IMS Twin Turbo |
| VRAM Type | Video card |
| Hard Drive | 4.0 GB (SCSI-II) |
| CD-ROM | 12X |
| Floppy Drive | 1.44 MB (manual) |
| Zip Drive | Built-in |
| Expansion Slots | 6 PCI |
| Expansion Bays | 1 (5.25″), 3 (3.5″) – 2 internal, 1 external |
| Ports | ADB, Serial, AAUI, 10Base-T Ethernet |
| Modem | 33.6k (external) |
| Battery | 3.6V Lithium |
| Case Type | Tower |
| Form Factor | PC Tower LX |
| Supported Mac OS | 7.5.3–7.6.1, 8.0–9.0 (not officially past 8.1) |
| Dimensions (HxWxD) | 15.2 x 7.2 x 15.0 inches |
| Weight | 24 lbs |
| Introduction Date | January 1, 1998 |
| Discontinued | August 1, 1998 |
| Original Price | $4150 (Singapore) |
| Est. Current Price | N/A |
Performance & Compatibility
The PowerMax Pro 225 offered a rare combination of Mac OS compatibility and customizability in a PC-style housing. With support for Zip drives, UltraSCSI, and 10/100Base-T Ethernet via optional upgrades, it catered to users needing advanced connectivity and storage options.
Thanks to its dual-CPU architecture and large RAM ceiling, the system was a favorite among professionals looking for performance beyond what Apple officially offered during the Mac clone era.
