In 1990 Apple introduced a computer that would move educational institutions from the Apple II to the Macintosh. The LC family, which meant low cost, were Apple’s entry level colour capable computers until 1995.

The LC included capabilities to run Apple II software via an optional IIe card. The IIe card was basically a IIe on an expansion card, which Apple hoped would help the transition to Macintosh computers. The computer featured a new case that was to eventually be known to Apple enthusiasts as a pizza box. To ensure this entry level Mac did not steal sales from other lines, an older Motorola 68020 processor clocked at 16MHz powered the machine. Apple limited performance by using a 16-bit data path that effectively crippled the 32-bit processor. The maximum amount of RAM that the LC could access was only 10MB and included an internal 40MB hard disk drive. The computer turned out to be one of Apple’s most successful products. In 1992 Apple released a speed bump, which included a more modern 68030 processor but had the same artificial limits put on it as the LC. The LC II ran the new System 7 operating system and also included the LC PDS expansion slot that was released with the LC.

During 1993 two varients of the next model, the LC III were released. The LC III included a 25MHz processor, a 32-bit data path, which allowed the computer to take full advantage of the processor and a new version of the LC PDS slot. The maximum RAM that could be installed was lifted to 36MB and the hard disk was increased to 80MB. The LC III+ was released a little after the LC III but included a 33MHz processor, and a refreshed LC style case.

Apple’s higher end Quadra family met with the low cost LC on the release of the LC 475, which was identical to the Quadra 605. The LC 475 used a processor that lacked an FPU called the 68LC040. The processor was clocked at 25MHz and used the same case as the LC III+. The computer was discontinued in 1994 a year after it was released.

Also released in the same year as the LC III and 475, the LC 520 was Apple’s attempt of an all in one design for the 90’s. The computer was essentially an LC III with a built-in 14″ display. The 520 sold well because of the all in one multimedia features including speakers, a monitor and 2x CD drive.

Part two details the remainder of the LC family.

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