Scarce prototype of the Apple PowerBook laptop computer, measuring approximately 11.5˝ x 8.5˝ x 2.5˝ closed, with the underside bearing an affixed label annotated “Test Unit, # 001–28.” In fine, untested condition, with scattered light scuffs and marks.
In October 1991, Apple released the first three PowerBooks: the low-end PowerBook 100, the more powerful PowerBook 140, and the high-end PowerBook 170, innovative machines with compact dark grey cases, a built-in trackball, and an upper keyboard that left room for palm rests on either side of the pointing device. This particular prototype model, which features a trackpad instead of a trackball, points to this being a prototype for the PowerBook 3400c, a laptop computer released in February 1997. Briefly the fastest laptop in the world, the 3400c used the PowerPC 603e processor to run at speeds of up to 240 MHz and was the first PowerBook to feature a PCI architecture, EDO memory, and a 64-bit wide, 40 MHz internal bus. It was also the first PowerBook to feature a PC card slot capable of being used as a zoomed video port.
