The Apple Macintosh 512K was the ‘Fat Mac’, a 1984 Macintosh with four times the memory of the original 128K model for $3,195.
Why it matters
The 512K gave the first Macintosh the memory it needed to run real software. It kept the original’s 9-inch screen, 68000 processor and System software, and it cost $3,195; the Amiga 1000 launched a year later for $1,285. It was discontinued in April 1986 and replaced by the 512Ke and the Macintosh Plus.
What to check before you buy
- Check the display for fading and a clear picture; compact Mac analog boards are known to fail.
- Ask whether the floppy drive reads disks.
- Look at the case for cracks and yellowing, particularly around the handle.
- Check the mouse and keyboard are original and working.
- Make sure it has a System disk or boots from a working drive.
