The VisionPower PowerMax Pro 225 was a robust PowerPC-based Macintosh clone built on the Tsunami architecture, featuring a 225 MHz PowerPC 604e processor, 48 MB of RAM, and a 4.0 GB SCSI hard drive. This model also came with a built-in Zip drive and an 8 MB IMS Twin Turbo video card, housed in a standard ATX-style tower case. Sold primarily across Asia, the PowerMax Pro 225 mirrored the design of the SuperMac S900/225, offering support for dual-processor upgrades via a P-series card.
Its professional-grade specifications, Mac OS compatibility up to version 9.0, and strong hardware expandability made it a popular desktop workstation for multimedia and publishing professionals in regional markets.
VisionPower PowerMax Pro 225 – Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Model | VisionPower PowerMax Pro 225 |
| Processor | PowerPC 604e, 225 MHz |
| System Bus Speed | 45 MHz |
| Lookaside Bus Speed | 45 MHz |
| Processor Upgrade | Daughtercard (604e or G3 with ASPD support) |
| ROM Size | 4 MB |
| Data Path | 64-bit |
| Level 1 Cache | 64 KB |
| Level 2 Cache | 512 KB |
| RAM Type | 70 ns 168-pin DIMM |
| Standard RAM | 48 MB |
| Maximum RAM | 1040 MB |
| Motherboard RAM | 16 MB |
| RAM Slots | 8 |
| Standard VRAM | 8 MB |
| Maximum VRAM | 8 MB |
| VRAM Type | Twin Turbo Video Card |
| Hard Drive | 4.0 GB (SCSI-II) |
| Zip Drive | Built-in |
| CD-ROM | 12X |
| Floppy Drive | 1.44 MB (manual eject) |
| Expansion Slots | 6 PCI |
| Expansion Bays | 1 (5.25″), 3 (3.5″) — 2 external |
| Modem | 33.6k (external) |
| Ethernet | 10Base-T (optional 10/100 with E100 card) |
| Ports | AAUI, Serial, ADB, SCSI, Geo Port |
| Case Type | Tower |
| Form Factor | PC (Tower LX) |
| Battery Type | 3.6V Lithium |
| Supported Mac OS | 7.5.3–7.6.1, 8.0–9.0 (not officially supported beyond 8.1) |
| Dimensions (HxWxD) | 15.2 x 7.2 x 15.0 inches |
| Weight | 24 lbs |
| Introduction Date | January 1, 1998 |
| Discontinued Date | August 1, 1998 |
| Original Price | $4150 SGD |
| Estimated Current Price | N/A |
Dual Processor Power and Expansion
The PowerMax Pro 225 was notable for its modular CPU upgrade path. Users could swap the 604e daughtercard with a G3 processor upgrade or install a second processor using a P-series card. With six PCI slots, up to 1 GB of RAM, and full SCSI expandability, this clone was capable of handling high-end desktop publishing and graphic-intensive tasks during its time.
Though sold primarily in Asia, the system shares full compatibility with Macintosh OS, offering a rare blend of performance and affordability in the Mac clone era.
