# PowerBook 180

> laptop by Apple

**Wikidata**: [Q1052812](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q1052812)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/PowerBook_180)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/powerbook-180

## Summary
The PowerBook 180 is a laptop computer designed and manufactured by Apple Inc. Released in 1992, it was part of the PowerBook line and featured a 25 MHz processor, 4 MB of RAM, and a 160 MB hard drive. It was notable for its active matrix display and robust performance for its time.

## Key Facts
- **Manufacturer**: Apple Inc.
- **Release Year**: 1992
- **Processor**: 25 MHz Motorola 68040
- **RAM**: 4 MB (expandable to 8 MB)
- **Storage**: 160 MB hard drive
- **Display**: 10.4-inch active matrix LCD
- **Dimensions**: 1.8 inches thick, 5.3 pounds
- **Predecessors**: PowerBook 140 and 170
- **Successor**: PowerBook 190

## FAQs
### Q: When was the PowerBook 180 released?
A: The PowerBook 180 was released in 1992 as part of Apple's PowerBook series.

### Q: What were its key specifications?
A: It featured a 25 MHz processor, 4 MB of RAM (expandable to 8 MB), a 160 MB hard drive, and a 10.4-inch active matrix display.

### Q: Why was the PowerBook 180 notable?
A: It was praised for its high-quality active matrix display and performance, positioning it as a professional-grade portable computer in the early 1990s.

## Why It Matters
The PowerBook 180 played a significant role in Apple's lineup during the early 1990s, catering to professionals requiring robust portable computing. Its active matrix display offered superior image quality compared to passive matrix screens common at the time, enhancing usability for graphic design and business applications. As part of the PowerBook series, it reinforced Apple's commitment to innovation in mobile computing, bridging the gap between desktop power and portability. Though discontinued in 1993, it exemplified Apple's focus on design and performance, contributing to the company's reputation in the burgeoning laptop market.

## Notable For
- **Active Matrix Display**: Offered sharper and more responsive visuals than contemporary passive matrix screens.
- **Performance**: Equipped with a 25 MHz Motorola 68040 processor, making it suitable for demanding tasks.
- **Portability**: Weighed 5.3 pounds with a 1.8-inch thickness, balancing power and mobility.
- **Expandability**: Supported RAM upgrades to 8 MB and featured SCSI ports for external devices.

## Body
### Release and Discontinuation
The PowerBook 180 was released in 1992 and discontinued in 1993. It succeeded the PowerBook 140 and 170, and was later replaced by the PowerBook 190.

### Technical Specifications
- **Processor**: 25 MHz Motorola 68040
- **RAM**: 4 MB (expandable to 8 MB via SIMM slots)
- **Storage**: 160 MB SCSI hard drive
- **Display**: 10.4-inch active matrix LCD (640x400 resolution)

### Design and Features
- **Dimensions**: 1.8 inches thick, 5.3 pounds
- **Ports**: SCSI, ADB, serial, and parallel ports
- **Battery**: Nickel-cadmium battery with approximately 2 hours of use

### Legacy and Impact
The PowerBook 180 targeted professionals and educators, emphasizing durability and performance. Its active matrix display addressed criticisms of earlier PowerBook screens, though it came at a higher cost. The model reflected Apple's efforts to compete in the enterprise and creative markets, laying groundwork for future PowerBook innovations.

## References

1. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013