The Hardware Research 604e/233 DP is a dual-processor Mac clone released in 1998 for professionals needing solid performance in a rackmount form. Built on Apple’s Tsunami logic board architecture, it offers dual 233 MHz PowerPC 604e processors, a 4.0 GB SCSI hard drive, and either 64 MB or 80 MB of RAM, upgradeable to 1040 MB.
With its 4 MB ATI XCLAIM 3D video card, 6 PCI expansion slots, and standard 10Base-T Ethernet, the system was ideal for multimedia studios, server farms, and tech labs. Its design follows the 19-inch rackmount standard, weighing 52 pounds, and supports Mac OS versions 7.5.5 to 9.0 (officially up to 8.1).
Originally priced at $5,400 USD, the 604e/233 DP was a rare example of a dual-processor third-party Mac clone, combining expandability with enterprise-level reliability.
Hardware Research 604e/233 DP – Full Specifications
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Introduction Date | January 1, 1998 |
| Discontinued Date | December 31, 1998 |
| Processor Type | Dual PowerPC 604e |
| Processor Speed | 233 MHz |
| Processor Upgrade | Daughtercard |
| FPU (Integrated) | PowerPC 604e |
| System Bus Speed | 46.6 MHz |
| Lookaside Bus Speed | 46.6 MHz |
| 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 | 64 MB or 80 MB |
| Maximum RAM | 1040 MB |
| RAM Slots | 8 (interleaving supported) |
| Standard VRAM | 4 MB (ATI XCLAIM 3D) |
| Maximum VRAM | 8 MB |
| Hard Drive | 4.0 GB SCSI |
| CD-ROM Drive | 12X or 24X |
| Floppy Drive | 1.44 MB (manual eject) |
| Modem | None |
| Ethernet | AAUI, 10Base-T |
| Case Type | Rack-Mountable |
| Form Factor | 19″ Rackmount |
| Expansion Slots | 6 PCI |
| Expansion Bays (Free) | 1 (5.25″, external) |
| Battery Type | 3.6V Lithium |
| Built-in Display | None |
| Supported MacOS | 7.5.5, 7.6.1, 8.0 to 9.0 (official support up to 8.1) |
| Dimensions (H x W x D) | 10 x 17.25 x 17.75 inches |
| Weight | 52 lbs (23.6 kg) |
| Original Price | $5,400 USD |
| Est. Current Value | N/A – Collector hardware |
| Architecture | Tsunami (Power Mac 9500 class) |
Why the Hardware Research 604e/233 DP Still Matters
The Hardware Research 604e/233 DP brought enterprise-grade performance to Mac OS environments in the late ’90s. With its dual CPU design, wide RAM ceiling, and PCI expandability, it catered to power users and institutions that demanded flexibility and raw processing muscle.
Whether in audio post, print production, or tech research, this machine stood out as a reliable workhorse with room to grow—fitting snugly into a 19″ rack while packing a punch.
