So, after some confusion around disk image transfer shenanigans related to the way Microsoft changed UAC in Windows 7, it seems the Apple III is in good, running condition once again. As I was digging through the cases, I noticed something I’d missed the first time around: holes. Specifically, a series of holes Apple drilled through the cast iron case of the two later models I have:
Cooling holes present in later 5V Apple III and Apple III Plus models are also seen here in this 12V machine.
These are not present in the earlier Apple III I have:
An early 12V model, serial number 018052
What’s interesting to me about this is that these holes exist in the case of one of the two 12V models, indicating that Apple knew about and was trying to address design flaws even before they officially started the replacement and upgrade program. Remember that before Apple re-introduced the machine as the Apple III Plus, they first rolled out an improved Apple III which featured some significant changes to the machine’s design, including the aforementioned holes, as well as a new more efficient 5V power system. But the presence of the cooling holes in this 12V case (serial number 050756) shows that Apple were aware early on of the troubles plaguing the machine.
Two 12V Apple IIIs, one with the cooling holes drilled in the cast iron case.
At any rate, after a handful of successful disk image transfers, I loaded up the Apple /// Dealer Diagnostic disk. I’m not sure if the obvious issues with the color video modes are the fault of the Apple III or the monitor it’s plugged in to. I’ll need to dig further into that:
Color video mode test pattern
But, it was very nice to see this at the end of the rather extensive diagnostic:
The Apple /// Dealer Diagnostic: complete and successful.
