Macintosh Performa 638CDV

The Macintosh Performa 638CDV is a multimedia-focused personal computer manufactured by Apple Computer and released in 1994.[1] The "V" designation indicates the inclusion of video input capabilities and a TV tuner card, making it Apple's consumer television/computer convergence product.

Macintosh Performa 638CDV
Macintosh Performa 638CDV
Specifications
ManufacturerApple Computer, Inc.
TypePersonal Computer
ReleasedJuly 18, 1994
DiscontinuedFebruary 1996
Intro priceUS$2,099
CPUMotorola 68LC040 @ 33 MHz
Memory8 MB RAM (expandable to 36 MB)
Storage350 MB IDE hard drive, 2× CD-ROM, 1.44 MB floppy drive
DisplaySupports up to 832×624 at 8-bit color
SoundStereo 16-bit sound input/output
Dimensions4.3" H × 12.6" W × 16.5" D
Weight19 lbs (8.6 kg)
OS / FirmwareSystem 7.1.2P – Mac OS 8.1
PredecessorPerforma 600CD
SuccessorPerforma 6200CD
CodenameCrusader
Model no.M3076

The Performa 638CDV was bundled with a 15" Apple Multiple Scan Display and TV tuner card, allowing users to watch television on their computer.

Key Features

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  • TV Tuner Card: Apple TV/Video System card for watching television
  • Video Input: Composite and S-Video input for recording video
  • Infrared Receiver: Front panel IR for use with included Sony remote control
  • Display: Bundled 15" Apple Multiple Scan Display

Architecture and Processor

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The Performa 638CDV uses a Motorola 68LC040 processor running at 33 MHz without an integrated FPU.

Memory and Storage

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The system ships with 8 MB of RAM. A single 72-pin SIMM socket allows expansion up to 36 MB total.

Storage includes:

  • 350 MB IDE hard drive
  • 2× Apple CD 300i plus CD-ROM drive
  • 1.44 MB SuperDrive floppy

Display and Graphics

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1 MB of dedicated DRAM for video. Supported resolutions:

  • 512×384, 640×480: 16-bit color
  • 800×600, 832×624: 8-bit color

The TV tuner card allows video overlay of television content in a window or full-screen.

TV/Video System

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The Apple TV/Video System card provides:[2]

  • TV tuner (NTSC)
  • Composite video input
  • S-Video input
  • Video capture capabilities

The system included a Sony RMC-A1 remote control for changing channels and controlling playback.

Bundle Contents

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  • 15" Apple Multiple Scan Display
  • TV Tuner/Video Input card
  • Sony RMC-A1 remote control
  • Keyboard and mouse
  • Consumer software bundle

General Maintenance

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For maintenance procedures, refer to the Macintosh LC 630 General Maintenance page.

Capacitor Replacement Guide

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See the Macintosh LC 630 Capacitor Replacement Guide page.

Troubleshooting

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See the Macintosh LC 630 Troubleshooting page.

See Also

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References

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  1. Macintosh Quadra 630, Wikipedia—link(accessed 2026-02-10)
  2. Performa 630 and LC 630, Low End Mac—link(accessed 2026-02-10)