Apple IIc
 | |
| Apple IIc – Apple's Compact Portable II | |
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Apple Computer, Inc. |
| Type | Home Computer |
| Released | April 24, 1984 |
| Discontinued | August 1988 |
| Intro price | US$1,295 (1984) |
| CPU | MOS Technology 65C02 @ 1.023 MHz |
| Memory | 128 KB RAM, 32 KB ROM |
| Storage | Built-in 5.25" floppy disk drive (140 KB per disk), external cassette |
| Display | 40×24 or 80×24 text, 280×192 graphics, 16 colors (composite video) |
| Sound | 1-bit speaker (toggle), no dedicated sound chip |
| Dimensions | 30.5 cm × 29.2 cm × 7.6 cm |
| Weight | 3.4 kg (7.5 lbs) |
| OS / Firmware | Apple DOS 3.3, ProDOS, CP/M (with Z80 card) |
| Predecessor | Apple IIe |
| Successor | Apple IIc Plus |
| Codename | Lollie |
| Model no. | A2S4000, A2S4100, A2S4500 |
The Apple IIc is a compact, portable member of the Apple II family, introduced by Apple Computer, Inc. in April 1984. Designed as a lightweight, all-in-one system, the IIc brought the power and compatibility of the Apple IIe to a smaller, transportable form factor.
Architecture and Processor
[edit | edit source]At its core, the Apple IIc utilised the MOS Technology 65C02 microprocessor, an enhanced version of the original 6502, running at 1.023 MHz. The 65C02 added new instructions and addressing modes, improving code efficiency and compatibility with future Apple II software. The IIc's architecture was based on the Apple IIe, with built-in support for features that previously required expansion cards.
Memory and Storage
[edit | edit source]The IIc shipped with:
- 128 KB RAM (expandable via third-party solutions)
- 32 KB ROM containing Applesoft BASIC, monitor, and firmware utilities
For storage, the IIc included a built-in 5.25" floppy disk drive (140 KB per disk side), using the Disk II interface logic integrated onto the motherboard. External storage options included:
- Cassette interface (via rear port)
- Optional external 5.25" floppy drives
- ProDOS-compatible SmartPort for external devices (e.g., UniDisk 3.5")
Display and Graphics
[edit | edit source]The Apple IIc supported standard Apple II video modes:
- Text: 40×24 or 80×24 (with built-in 80-column support)
- Graphics: 280×192 (high-resolution), 140×192 (double hi-res), 16 colors (composite artifacting)
- Output: NTSC composite video (for TV/monitor), RGB (via third-party adapters), and monochrome
The IIc was the first Apple II with built-in 80-column text and mouse interface, making it compatible with advanced productivity and educational software.
Sound Capabilities
[edit | edit source]Sound on the IIc was generated by a simple 1-bit speaker, toggled directly by the CPU. No dedicated sound chip was present, but software could produce basic beeps and effects by rapidly switching the speaker line. Music and complex sound effects were possible through clever programming, though limited compared to later systems.
Input/Output and Expansion
[edit | edit source]The Apple IIc featured a range of built-in I/O ports:
- Serial ports (2 × DIN-5) – for printer and modem (using the new "Apple Desktop Bus" protocol)
- Joystick/mouse port – DE-9 connector, compatible with Apple II joysticks and the Apple Mouse IIc
- Composite video output
- Cassette input/output
- SmartPort – for external ProDOS storage devices
- External disk drive port
- Audio out (mono)
- Power input (15V DC)
Unlike earlier Apple IIs, the IIc did not have internal expansion slots; instead, key peripherals were integrated, and external devices connected via dedicated ports.
PCB Schematics & Service Manual
[edit | edit source]The Apple IIc's compact logic board integrated the core Apple IIe chipset, disk controller, 80-column circuitry, and serial interfaces. The analog board managed power regulation and drive control.
| Logic Board | Logic Board Schematic |
|---|---|
 |
File:Apple IIc Schematic.pdf |
The official Apple IIc Service Manual and schematics are available at Apple Service Source
Gallery
[edit | edit source]-
Apple IIc with Monitor -
Apple IIc front view -
Apple IIc logic boar
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