The Pios Magna 220, introduced by Pios Computer AG, is a Germany-based Mac clone built around the PowerPC 750 (G3) processor, running at 220 MHz. Leveraging the Tsunami architecture and based on the SuperMac S900 logic board, the system was sold primarily in Europe as a cost-effective, expandable Macintosh-compatible desktop.
This tower supports dual processor configurations, includes a 4 MB MacPicasso 540 video card, and ships with 16 MB of RAM (expandable to 1040 MB). Built for power users and developers, the Pios Magna 220 is compatible with classic Mac OS 7.5.3 to 9.0, although versions above 8.1 lack official Apple support.
Pios Magna 220 – Full Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Model | Pios Magna 220 |
| Processor | PowerPC 750 (G3), 220 MHz |
| Backside Bus | 110 MHz |
| System Bus Speed | 44 MHz |
| Processor Upgrade | Daughtercard (supports dual processor cards) |
| Architecture | Tsunami |
| Level 1 Cache | 64 KB |
| Level 2 & 3 Cache | 512 KB (backside), 512 KB |
| Data Path | 64-bit |
| RAM Type | 70 ns 168-pin DIMM |
| Standard RAM | 16 MB |
| Maximum RAM | 1040 MB |
| RAM Slots | 8 |
| Motherboard RAM | 16 MB |
| Graphics Card | MacPicasso 540, 4 MB VRAM |
| Max Video RAM | 8 MB |
| Hard Drive | 2.1 GB SCSI-II |
| CD-ROM | 32X |
| Floppy Drive | 1.44 MB (manual) |
| Expansion Slots | 6 PCI |
| Expansion Bays | 2 (5.25″ external), 3 (3.5″) (2 internal, 1 external) |
| Ethernet | AAUI, 10Base-T (UltraSCSI optional with E100 card) |
| Modem | Not included |
| Battery | 3.6V Lithium |
| Case Type | Tower (ATX) |
| Form Factor | Pios Magna ATX enclosure |
| Supported Mac OS | 7.5.3–7.6.1, 8.0–9.0 (officially up to 8.1) |
| Dimensions (HxWxD) | 17.25 x 7.0 x 17.5 inches |
| Weight | 28 lbs |
| Release Date | May 1, 1998 |
| Discontinued | September 1, 1998 |
| Original Price | $2200 USD |
Designed for Performance and Flexibility
The Pios Magna 220 offered a robust Macintosh-compatible platform for professionals seeking G3 performance in a configurable, tower-based environment. While officially discontinued in late 1998, it remains a noteworthy part of the Mac clone era, standing out for its expandability and reliable performance.
Its SuperMac S900-based board, flexible upgrade paths, and SCSI-II storage made it a smart choice for users who needed power on a budget during the brief window of Apple’s Mac OS licensing program.
