Restoring the information on your hard disk

Your computer’s hard disk comes with valuable information already stored on it, including system software and some application programs. If information on your hard disk becomes damaged or lost, you can restore it if you have a backup copy of the information. The Macintosh Performa CD: Performa Software contains copies of all the system software and application programs that came with your computer. (The Macintosh Performa CD: Guided Tour also contains backup copies of the Guided Tour programs you may have seen when you first turned on your computer.) See Chapter 7, “Installing or Reinstalling Your Software,” for instructions on using the Macintosh Performa CDs to reinstall software.

Using application programs designed for the PowerPC microprocessor

Your Macintosh is compatible with most application programs intended for use with Macintosh computers. But certain programs are designed especially for use with computers that have the PowerPC microprocessor. (These programs are sometimes called “native” applications.) You’ll find that these programs take best advantage of your computer’s speed.

Special memory requirements

Some native applications may be slightly larger than other programs and may take up more memory. If you find that you are running out of memory when you use one of these programs, you can use space on your computer’s hard disk as additional memory. For instructions on how to use hard disk space as memory, see the “Memory” topic of Macintosh Guide, available in the Guide (h) menu.

You can also add more memory to your computer, as described in

Appendix E, “Installing Additional Memory.”

Using older Macintosh programs

If you experience problems using an older Macintosh program, it may be incompatible with your Macintosh. You may be able to use your older program if you turn off Modern Memory Manager in your Memory control panel, in the Control Panels folder in the Apple (K) menu.

50Chapter 4

Page 50 Page 52
Page 51
Image 51
Apple 5400 Series Using older Macintosh programs, Restoring the information on your hard disk, Special memory requirements
Page 50 Page 52

5400 Series specifications

The Apple 5400 series, released in the mid-1990s, was a significant milestone in Apple's line of Macintosh computers. Characterized by its all-in-one design, this series was particularly popular for its blend of style, functionality, and performance. The 5400 series aimed to provide users with an accessible and seamless computing experience, making it appealing to both home users and education markets.

One of the standout features of the Apple 5400 series was its aesthetically pleasing design. The compact form factor housed all essential components, including the monitor, CPU, and storage, allowing for a cleaner workspace. Its unique design included a swivel base that enabled users to adjust the monitor's angle easily. The 5400 series boasted a 15-inch display with a resolution of 640x480 pixels, providing clear and vibrant visuals suitable for both productivity and entertainment.

Under the hood, the 5400 series was powered by the PowerPC 603e processor, which operated at speeds varying between 180 MHz and 240 MHz. This processing power was complemented by a bus architecture that supported speeds of 60 MHz, enhancing the overall responsiveness of the system. With options for 16 MB or 32 MB of RAM, expandable to 128 MB, the 5400 series offered enough memory for multitasking and running resource-intensive applications, a key requirement during that technological era.

The Apple 5400 series featured a range of innovative technologies that set it apart from competitors. It came equipped with an ADB port for connecting keyboards and mice, as well as several expansion slots for peripherals. Notably, the inclusion of an integrated CD-ROM drive made it one of the first in its class, allowing users to access software and multimedia content easily. Additionally, it supported Apple’s QuickTime technology, enabling users to experience multimedia applications with video and sound.

Another notable characteristic of the 5400 series was its commitment to connectivity. It shipped with a built-in modem and included Ethernet capabilities, making it easier to connect to networks, surf the emerging internet, and share files. This level of connectivity was essential as the online landscape began expanding in the mid-90s.

In summary, the Apple 5400 series represented a well-rounded approach to personal computing in its time. With its stylish design, robust features, and commitment to both performance and connectivity, it carved out a dedicated user base. Though ultimately phased out with the evolution of technology, the legacy of the 5400 series continues to influence modern computing design and functionality.
Top Page Image Contents