The Marathon RackMac TS 750/250 was a professional-grade Macintosh clone built for rackmount server applications. Released in February 1998, this model combined Apple’s Tsunami architecture with a 250 MHz PowerPC 750 (G3) processor in a secure, lockable 4U rackmount chassis.
Developed by Marathon Computer, the RackMac offered up to 144 MB of standard RAM, SCSI-II drives, and a reliable IX-Micro Twin Turbo 4 MB video card. The unit was ideal for digital media, education networks, or industrial setups requiring Apple OS compatibility in a rack-based format. It also supported dual-processor upgrades via daughtercard, offering users serious expansion potential.
Marathon RackMac TS 750/250 – Full Technical Specifications
| Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model | Marathon RackMac TS 750/250 |
| Architecture | Tsunami |
| Form Factor | 4U Rackmount (Marathon Rack) |
| Processor Type | PowerPC 750 (G3) |
| Processor Speed | 250 MHz |
| Backside Bus Speed | 125 MHz |
| System Bus Speed | 50 MHz |
| FPU | Integrated (PowerPC 750) |
| Processor Upgrade | Daughtercard, dual CPU capable |
| Level 1 Cache | 64 KB |
| Level 2 Cache | 512 KB (backside) |
| Data Path | 64-bit |
| ROM Size | 4 MB |
| RAM Type | 70 ns 168-pin DIMM |
| Standard RAM | 32, 64, 80, or 144 MB * |
| Maximum RAM | 1040 MB |
| RAM Slots | 8 (with 16 MB onboard) |
| Video Card | IX-Micro Twin Turbo |
| Standard VRAM | 4 MB * |
| Maximum VRAM | 8 MB |
| Hard Drive | 2.1 GB * (SCSI-II) |
| CD-ROM | 8X * |
| Floppy Drive | 1.44 MB (manual) |
| Modem | None |
| Ethernet | AAUI, 10Base-T |
| Expansion Slots | 6 PCI |
| Expansion Bays | 1 (5.25″ external), 2 (3.5″) |
| Battery Type | 3.6V Lithium |
| Built-in Display | None |
| Supported Mac OS | 7.5.3–7.6.1, 8.0–9.0 (Apple officially supported to 8.1) |
| Dimensions (HxWxD) | 7.0 x 17.25 x 17.75 inches (4U Rack) |
| Weight | 42 lbs |
| Original Price | $4100–$4200 USD |
Professional Design & Expandability
The Marathon RackMac TS 750/250 stood out in the clone market for its secure form factor and Apple server compatibility. With a lockable front panel, AAUI networking, and PCI expansion, it was favored in broadcasting environments, research labs, and server closets needing stable and rack-compliant G3 performance.
It provided just enough configurability to scale — up to 1040 MB RAM, optional CD-ROM upgrades, and dual-CPU potential — making it a reliable long-term investment in any infrastructure.
