PowerBook 140

PowerBook 140
Name	PowerBook 140
Developer	Apple Computer
Type	Laptop
Release date	October 1991
Discontinued	August 1993
Os	System 6 – System 7
Cpu	Motorola 68030 @ 16 MHz
Memory	2 MB (expandable to 8 MB)
Storage	20 MB or 40 MB SCSI hard disk drive
Display	9.8-inch monochrome LCD
Predecessor	Macintosh Portable
Successor	PowerBook 145

PowerBook 140. The PowerBook 140 was a laptop computer introduced by Apple Computer in October 1991 as part of the first generation of PowerBook series. Positioned as the mid-range model, it offered a balance of performance and features between the entry-level PowerBook 100 and the high-end PowerBook 170. The system was praised for its innovative design, which helped establish the modern laptop form factor, and remained in production until its discontinuation in August 1993.

Overview

The launch of the PowerBook 140 was a pivotal moment for Apple Computer in the early 1990s, marking its successful re-entry into the portable computing market. It was developed under the leadership of executives like John Sculley and designed by the team led by Robert Brunner. The computer was unveiled at a COMDEX trade show alongside its siblings, creating significant buzz in the industry. Its commercial success, particularly among business professionals and students, provided a crucial revenue stream for Apple during a period of intense competition with companies like IBM and Compaq.

Specifications

At its core, the PowerBook 140 was powered by a 16 MHz Motorola 68030 microprocessor, supported by a Motorola 68882 floating-point unit sold as an optional upgrade. The system came standard with 2 MB of RAM, expandable to 8 MB via its single SIMM slot. For storage, it featured either a 20 MB or 40 MB internal SCSI hard disk drive. The built-in display was a 9.8-inch monochrome LCD with a resolution of 640x400 pixels, capable of supporting external monitors. Connectivity was provided through a SCSI port, a modem port, and a proprietary Apple Desktop Bus port for peripherals like the Apple Keyboard.

Models

The PowerBook 140 line consisted of the base model and a slightly enhanced variant, the PowerBook 140b, which was released later. The primary distinction of the 140b was its upgraded display, a sharper supertwist nematic panel that improved readability. Both models were part of Apple's strategy to segment the market, sitting above the PowerBook 100—which was actually manufactured by Sony—and below the more capable PowerBook 170. This family also included the PowerBook 145, which succeeded the 140 with a faster CPU. All models were compatible with the PowerBook Duo docking system.

Design and features

The design of the PowerBook 140, created by the Apple Industrial Design Group, was revolutionary, introducing the now-standard layout with a palm rest and a centrally located trackball. This ergonomic innovation, which placed the pointing device in front of the keyboard, was a stark departure from the Macintosh Portable. The case was made of a durable polycarbonate plastic, and the system notably included a built-in microphone and stereo speakers, features uncommon in portables of the era. Its battery life, utilizing a nickel-cadmium battery, was rated for several hours of use.

Software

The PowerBook 140 shipped with System 7, Apple's major operating system release that introduced features like virtual memory and TrueType fonts. It was also compatible with the earlier System 6. Bundled software often included HyperCard, a popular hypermedia authoring tool, and various utilities for power management. The machine could run a wide array of contemporary application software, including Microsoft Word, Adobe Photoshop, and ClarisWorks, making it a versatile tool for productivity and creative work in the Microsoft Windows-dominated landscape.

Reception and legacy

Upon release, the PowerBook 140 received positive reviews from publications like Macworld and InfoWorld, which commended its performance, design, and value. It was a commercial hit, contributing significantly to Apple's profitability and helping to define the PowerBook brand as a leader in mobile computing. Its design language directly influenced subsequent models, including the PowerBook 500 series and, ultimately, the MacBook Pro. The PowerBook 140 is remembered as a key product in Apple's history, cementing the company's reputation for innovation during the tenure of John Sculley and setting the stage for future successes under Steve Jobs.

Category:Apple Inc. hardware Category:Laptop computers Category:PowerBook Category:1991 introductions