Rush #01: Parallel Worlds: Evolution of Macintosh Models

I think many will be interested to learn more about the closest relative of AMIGA - the MAC.

Below we provide brief information about various MAC models and their prices, taken from professional design magazines - Design Graphics, from late 1997 to early 1998. Due to the fact that the sources are somewhat outdated, the information does not fully cover the current state of the Macintosh platform...

In general, MACs, despite what is said in PC circles, remain the most popular machines in the field of computer graphics and design. This is evidenced by the constant publications in the Western press.

So, here is an overview of Macintosh models produced by Apple:

PowerMAC 7220/200:  
200 MHz 603e CPU, up to 160 Mb RAM,  
2 PCI slots.  
32Mb/1.2Gb/CD/15' - $3079  
32Mb/1.2Gb/CD/17' - $3715

PowerMAC 7300/180&200:  
180 or 200 MHz 604e CPU, up to 512 Mb  
RAM, 3 PCI slots.  
180MHz 32Mb/1.2Gb/CD/17' - $4130  
200MHz 32Mb/1.2Gb/CD/17' - $4770

PowerMAC 8600/200:  
200 MHz 604e CPU, up to 512 Mb RAM,  
3 PCI slots, Iomega Zip drive.  
64Mb/2Gb/CD/Zip/17' - $6240  
64Mb/2Gb/CD/Zip/20' - $7750

PowerMAC 9500/180, 9600/200:  
Two 180 MHz or 200 MHz 604e CPUs,  
up to 768 Mb RAM, 6 PCI slots, 2 Mb  
ATI video (4 Mb IMS in 9600).  
9500: 96Mb/2Gb/CD/17' - $8085  
9600: 96Mb/4Gb/CD/17' - $8880

PowerMAC 9600/350:  
350Mhz 604e CPU, 1 Mb L2 cache.  
This is the fastest MAC with a 604e processor.

Macintoshes are produced not only by Apple. For example, Motorola produces a very powerful model - Star Max Pro 6000s CHRP, which is 30% faster than the 9600 from Apple, while the clock speed of the latter's processor is 350 MHz. So, the Star Max Pro is based on the new generation of PowerPC processors - 750, which are often called G3 (the code name during development) or Arthur. The versions I know of operate at frequencies of 233, 266, or 300 MHz. The bus speed is 66 MHz, with an ULTRA wide SCSI controller transferring at 40 Mb/sec. In the past year, Apple has released new PowerMac models, particularly - iMac. The bus frequency is 100 MHz, and the G3 (750) processor operates at speeds of 300, 350, and 400 MHz. The second-level cache can be 1 Mb or 512 Kb and operates at frequencies of 150, 175, and 200 MHz, respectively. There are 4 slots for PC 100 SDRAM, allowing up to 1 Gb of RAM to be installed. In terms of performance, a Mac with a G3 processor at 400 MHz is almost equivalent to a PC with a Pentium III at 500 MHz.

In any case, the MAC survived the recent crisis. Computers of this family are once again popular, and the platform is developing. This cannot but please the Amiga fans - firstly, they can use MAC software under emulators, and secondly, companies engaged in the production of PowerPC family processors have yet another incentive to improve their processors. Moreover, the strengthening of opposition to PCs is also encouraging...

Contents of the publication: Rush #01

• AMIGA NEWS
  Amiga Inc works on Amiga OS 3.5 with enhancements like CD drive and PowerPC support. Split development for M68K and PPC processors. Delayed release to late 1999 or early 2000.
• AMIGA NEWS
  Description of the 'Fast JPEG 1.10' viewer for Amiga, focusing on its features, installation, and usage. It highlights advantages like fast processing without quality loss and provides user tips. Readers are encouraged to share their software experiences.
• AMIGA NEWS
  Basic programming for classic Amiga, discussing challenges and sharing knowledge in Amiga coding. Overview of Amiga graphics capabilities and processor features. Introduction to Amiga assembly language specifics.
• AMIGA NEWS
  Overview of events related to the Amiga platform from early to mid-1998. Highlights include new hardware, software releases, and notable company collaborations. Future updates and developments are scheduled for the next issue.
• AMIGA NEWS
  Collection of cheats and secrets for classic Amiga games compiled by Postcard Man. Readers encouraged to share their findings on complex games. Selection of tips and level codes provided for various games.
• AMIGA NEWS
  Discussion of Phase-5's graphics cards and Permedia 2 processor capabilities. Details on Permedia 2's 2D/3D acceleration and compatibility. Mention of GLINT Delta processors and comparison of prices and availability.
• AMIGA NEWS
  Analysis of Amiga's survival in the 90s, highlighting community efforts and technological advancements. Discussion on hardware improvements and software development. Encouragement for further exploration and learning about the Amiga platform.
• Spectrum Programming
  Explanation of a fast method for real-time 3D graphics on the ZX Spectrum. Introduces efficient rotation and deformation techniques for 3D objects. Emphasizes improvements over traditional methods with practical examples.
• Spectrum Programming - Ticklish Jim
  Discussion of combining sound effects with music for Spectrum's AY chip. Examples from development of 'CSC: Deja Vu' and technical challenges faced. Contains practical guide and code examples.
• Spectrum Programming
  Discussion on byte mirroring and background restoration in ZX Spectrum programming, with examples.
• Spectrum Programming
  Comprehensive guide for system programmers with practical tips for creating efficient and user-friendly software, including coding techniques, device compatibility, and program testing strategies.
• Spectrum Programming
  Advanced coding techniques and modern graphics methods for ZX Spectrum. Tips for optimizing graphical procedures and coding on assembly. Useful advice for programmers to improve performance and efficiency.
• The End
  Reflections on the creation of the first issue of the magazine 'Rush', its goals, audience, and future development.
• ZX-SOFT - Вячеслав Медноногов
  Development updates on Vyacheslav Mednoy's new game 'Black Raven II', including gameplay changes, new spell introductions, and performance improvements.
• ZX-SOFT
  Overview of new features in the updated commander from REAL software for ZX Spectrum, including file management, autodetection, and media viewing. Improvements in text, font, and music handling. Questions addressed regarding future updates.
• ZX-SOFT
  Debate on which demo deserved the top spot at Funtop'98: Forever by DR or Refresh by XTM. Discussions in the demoscene community highlight the clash between technical prowess and conceptual depth. Different opinions reflect on the evolution of demoscene preferences.
• Authors
  Acknowledgment of contributors and partners in creating Rush magazine. Detailed roles of each author and collaboration insights. Recognition of technical support and media partnerships.
• Virtual Specky
  Discussion on converting graphics from PC to Spectrum, featuring insights from various experts. Techniques for improving conversion quality and tools like Photoshop are detailed. Emphasis on post-conversion refinement in Spectrum graphics editors.
• Virtual Speccy
  Discussion on the CBSpeccy emulator for ZX-Spectrum on Amiga, highlighting its features, community opinions, and technical performance. Criticisms and praises for its emulation capabilities, particularly compared to PC emulators. Examination of potential improvements and community debates around version updates.
• Virtual Speccy
  FAQ on ZX-Spectrum emulation on PC, covering popular emulators and file formats. Instructions for using different emulators and managing file types like Hobeta and TR-DOS. Discussion on Russian ZX-oriented servers and resources for enthusiasts.
• Introduction
  Introduction to the Rush magazine, emphasizing creativity, progressive scene, and the goal to create a superior information source. The magazine seeks to gather promising groups and offer a unique perspective. Focuses on content and atmosphere, welcoming creators to contribute.
• Introduction - Grunge
  Introduction to Rush, a new scenemag for Speccy/Amiga enthusiasts, aims to provide quality content and news while encouraging reader feedback.
• Interview - Konex
  Interview with ANTARES group after FUNTOP-98. Discussion on their demos, challenges, and future plans. Insight into the group's formation and dynamics.
• Interview - Kvazar, DUX
  Interview with Alexander Seleznev (KVAZAR), discussing his history with computers, the state of the ZX Spectrum scene, and future plans.
• Interview - Kvazar
  Interview with Vitebsk group POWER on demo 'Crazy Love', development experiences, and future projects.
• Informatorium
  Exploration of a CD with emulators for various platforms, highlighting Spectrum. Details the content organization and diversity. Concludes with insights from the CD-ROM Project's Spectrum software collection.
• Informacrium
  Compilation of interesting and useful Internet addresses related to Amiga resources, including magazines, hardware manufacturers, and software companies.
• Informacrium - Viator
  Overview of existing and upcoming publications on the Amiga platform. Discussion of the availability and distribution challenges for Amiga literature. Appeal for collaboration with new publications.
• About the Magazine
  Discussion on creating a multi-platform magazine focusing on Spectrum, Amiga, and PC. Emphasis on broader understanding of computer scene. Encourage professionalism and adaptation to changing technology.
• Parallel Worlds
  Overview of the evolution of Windows OS and PC processors from 1981 to 2000. Development milestones of MS-DOS, Windows, Intel processors, and competition with AMD and Cyrix. Challenges in maintaining compatibility with new processor technologies.
• Parallel Worlds
  Overview of Macintosh models and their relevance in design and graphics fields, covering prices and specifications from 1997-1998. Discussion includes the evolution of Apple's hardware, notably the PowerMac series, and compares new G3 processors with PC counterparts. It highlights the resurgence of Macintosh post-crisis and its ongoing influence in the market.
• Development of the Spectrum - Slider
  The article discusses a new graphical extension for the ZX Spectrum that enhances color palettes without increasing resource demands. By using a modified flash signal, new colors are created without interfering with existing software compatibility. The article provides implementation details and addresses practical usage concerns.
• Development of Spectrum
  Connecting a CDOS modem to the 'Compact-128' computer by addressing keyboard port conflicts. Description of hardware modifications to solve the issue. Solution includes automatic blocking using a transistor inverter.
• Development of Spectrum - Ars
  Discussion on AZX-Monstrum 512K development, its hardware compatibility, processor options, and potential enhancements in graphics and OS.
• Development of SPECTRUM
  Discussion of Clive Sinclair's new computer platform, the ZX2000, designed to outperform PCs with enhanced speed, affordability, and battery efficiency.
• Development of Spectrum - Андрей Савичев
  Examination of the evolution and ongoing relevance of the Z80 processor, and its role in embedded systems. Comparison of Z80 with its successors, highlighting advantages like energy efficiency and command enhancements. Overview of integrated Z80-based CPUs and their peripherals.
• Advertisement
  This article is an advertisement for Scorpion products including hardware for ZX Spectrum and Amiga software, along with pricing and ordering details.
• Advertising
  Collection of advertisements for Amiga and ZX Spectrum hardware and software, with contact information for sellers and details about the new Amiga magazine subscription.
• Advertisement
  Advertisement for X-TRADE's General Sound music board. Includes pricing, technical details, and purchase instructions. Features a FAQ section and compatibility info.
• Meaning Without Meaning - Viator
  Philosophical reflections on existentialism, immortality, and human destiny. The narrative weaves through stories of ambition, the quest for eternal life, and a utopian downfall. A blend of introspection and speculative fiction.
• Scene vs Professionals
  Exploration of the demoscene's creativity versus commercial game development. Discussion of potential for professional-quality programs by scene members. Call for collaboration with leading scene groups.
• Scene Chronicle - Андрей Савичев
  Reflections on ZX Spectrum's enduring appeal, its community's resilience, and its potential resurgence in Russia.
• Scene Chronology
  Overview of the Rush group's activities, including past projects, current endeavors, and future plans, with emphasis on software development and gaming.
• Scene Chronicles
  The article discusses various ZX Spectrum scene news, including game releases, demoparties, and updates from developers and teams.
• Chronicles of the Scene
  The article discusses the FUNTOP'98 international computer art festival held in Moscow, highlighting key events, notable attendees, and the various competitions held during the event.
• Scene Chronia
  Discussion on Amiga scene development through collaboration, addressing user isolation and promoting network expansion.
• Shell Management
  Статья описывает управление оболочкой для ZX Spectrum и Amiga, включая клавиши и функции для навигации. Упоминаются особенности работы на Amiga с PAL монитором и предоставляется контакт для поддержки. Также отмечено, что текстовые файлы имеют стандартную MS-DOS кодировку.