CV990

The CV990 is a compact, high-performance desktop computer designed by Apple Inc. and released in 1999 as part of the company’s transition from PowerPC-based systems to Intel processors. It was the first Apple desktop to feature an Intel Pentium III processor, marking a significant shift in Apple’s hardware architecture.

The CV990 was part of the iMac G3 series, which introduced the iconic all-in-one design with a translucent plastic case and a built-in monitor. The model was distinguished by its inclusion of an Intel Pentium III processor, running at speeds of 500 MHz or 550 MHz, paired with 64 MB or 128 MB of SDRAM. It also featured a 10.2-inch CRT display with a resolution of 800 by 600 pixels, a 10 GB hard drive, and a CD-ROM drive. The system ran macOS 8.6 or later, with compatibility for early versions of macOS X (now macOS).

The CV990 was notable for its compatibility with both PowerPC and Intel software, allowing users to run applications from both ecosystems. However, it was discontinued shortly after its release due to Apple’s rapid transition to fully Intel-based systems, which began with the release of the iMac G4 in 2002. The CV990 remains a curiosity among Apple enthusiasts for its unique role in bridging the gap between Apple’s PowerPC and Intel eras.

Today, the CV990 is considered a collector’s item, valued for its historical significance and rarity. Its design and specifications reflect the technological challenges and innovations of the late 1990s, particularly in the transition from RISC to CISC processors.