Apple Now Shipping Macintosh Quadra Computer with MS-DOS- and Windows-Compatibility

Cupertino, Calif. -- Feb. 28, 1994 -- PRNewswire -- Apple Computer, Inc. (NASDAQ: APPL) today announced it has begun shipping the Macintosh Quadra 610 DOS Compatible, a full featured personal computer with MS-DOS- and Windows-compatibility.

Ideally suited for home office and small business users, where being able to work in multiple computing environments is needed, the Macintosh Quadra 610 DOS Compatible computer enables users to easily switch from the Macintosh computer environment to DOS and back again with just the touch of two keys.

Packed with the powerful Motorola 68LC040 and Intel 486SX microprocessor, the Macintosh Quadra 610 DOS COMPATIBLE is designed to provide users with more options than ever before, while allowing them to protect their software investment. The system comes preinstalled with MS-DOS 6.2. Announced at Fall Comdex 1993, the Macintosh Quadra 610 DOS Compatible system was awarded first place by Byte Magazine in the "Best System" category.

"By developing the most compatible personal computer, Apple intends to provide users with all of the advantages of the Macintosh platform while protecting their investment in both DOS and Windows-based software," said Ian Diery, executive vice president and general manager of Apple's personal computer division.

Users to Work in Two Environments at the Same Time

The Macintosh Quadra 610 DOS Compatible version features dual processors, enabling users to work in both Macintosh and DOS environments simultaneously. The system features a 25 MHz 68LC040, powering the Macintosh computer environment, and a 25 MHz Intel 486SX, which runs both DOS and Windows-based software. Because the dual processors will work independently, users will be able to run Macintosh and DOS or Windows' applications in tandem, and even cut and paste information between the two environments.

"By having a genuine Intel 486SX microprocessor inside the system, Apple customers have uncompromised access to the largest software library in the industry, including DOS, Windows, and 50,000 applications titles," said Earl Whetstone, Intel's vice president and director of the Americas sales and marketing.

The system has passed Microsoft's DOS and Windows hardware compatibility tests, and it will appear on Microsoft's Windows 3.1 Hardware Compatibility List. "It is exciting being able to provide the MS-DOS standard to Apple customers," said Brad Chase, general manager of MS-DOS at Microsoft. "MS-DOS 6.2 will provide Macintosh Quadra 610 DOS Compatible users with access to the tens of thousands of MS-DOS and Windows-based applications."

Enhanced Product Features

Dual monitor support is designed to provide customers with the option of viewing the Macintosh and DOS environments at the same time, allowing the user to add the second display monitor without purchasing an additional video card. The Macintosh Quadra 610 DOS Compatible version supports most VGA, SVGA and Multisync monitors as well as the Apple 14" or 16" Macintosh Color Displays.

The same hard drive runs Macintosh, MS-DOS or Windows applications. Apple also offers an optional internal CD-ROM drive designed to run Macintosh, DOS and Windows CD-ROM discs, providing users with access to the hundreds of exciting CD-ROM titles currently available. In addition, DOS and Windows applications print to any Apple- or Macintosh-compatible printer through a built-in serial port or optional Ethernet port.

The Macintosh Quadra 610 DOS Compatible also ships with Apple's PC Exchange software. PC Exchange lets users manage their DOS and Windows files in the Macintosh environment just like Macintosh files, allowing users to open, copy, rename, delete and save documents and folders. Users can also custom configure their Macintosh to open a DOS or Windows file with a Macintosh application by simply double-clicking on the file's icon.

Availability and Pricing

The Macintosh Quadra 610 DOS Compatible personal computer is available today in the U.S. and selected international markets. The U.S. Apple price is $1,579 for the 8MB/160 with on-board Ethernet configuration.

Upgrade Information

Apple also announced that the DOS Compatibility Card for Macintosh is now available for both Macintosh Quadra 610 and Macintosh Centris(TM) 610 owners to upgrade their systems. The card is priced at the U.S. Apple price of $399.

Headquartered in Cupertino, Apple Computer, Inc. develops, manufactures and markets personal computer, server, and personal interactive electronic systems for use in business, education, the home, science, engineering and government. A recognized pioneer and innovator in the information industry, Apple does business in more than 120 countries.

NOTE: Apple, the Apple logo, Macintosh and Macintosh Quadra are registered trademarks, and Macintosh Centris is a trademark of Apple Computer, Inc. Intel 486 is a trademark of Intel Corp. MS-DOS and Windows are trademarks of Microsoft, Corp.

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CONTACT: Maureen O'Connell of Regis McKenna, Inc., 415-354-4492/ 08:38 EST