The Performa 5215 is among the first of the PowerPC-based Performas. These systems use the low power consumption 603 processor also used in PowerBooks. Performance is pretty good for its time, coming in at about the same speed as a PowerMacintosh 6100/66. The logic board on the 5215 is a 32bit system and is easily removed from its housing. The entire housing was designed with schools in mind. The all-in-one case sits on a tiltable base and is easily fastened down to a solid surface to prevent theft.
The first 5215's had occasional problems with the display losing one of its colors. This problem has been repaired. The 5215 represents an excellent school or business machine of decent power, average expandability, and typical Macintosh benefits. A 5215 has siblings of slightly different numbers, representing selling channels and software bundles.
Advantages
Performance
For the price, then and now, a 5215 is a great way to enter the realm of PowerPC processors and their accompanying strengths.
Design
The all-in-one design of the 5215 makes it a good system for multiple users. Several controls are mounted on the front of the machine for easy access.
Drawbacks
Speed
This unit is among the slowest of the PowerPC driven units. For most uses this is not much of an issue.
Design
Should one part of the machine need service, the entire unit must be sacrificed until repairs are completed. A tough decision must be faced in the future if either the display or logic board need replacing.
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