VMac
| Company type | Free software / Open-source software |
|---|---|
| Industry | Computer software / Emulation software |
| Defunct | 1999 |
| Successor | Mini vMac |
| Products | Macintosh Plus emulator |
| Website | www |
vMac is a free and open-source emulator designed for the Macintosh Plus, capable of running operating systems ranging from System 1.1 through 7.5.5. It is compatible with a variety of platforms including Windows, DOS, OS/2, Classic Mac OS, NeXTSTEP, and Linux. Although active development of vMac stopped in 1999, its improved successor, Mini vMac, continues to receive updates.
Both vMac and Mini vMac simulate CPUs from the Motorola 68000 series up to the 68040, offering functionalities such as video output, audio support, floppy disk emulation, and handling of HFV image files. Certain ports extend capabilities by incorporating CD-ROM access, basic serial port (SCC) support, compatibility with the Gemulator ROM board, and enhanced performance. Despite the original website still being accessible, no active development has occurred since 1999, and many developer contacts have become outdated.
Overview
Mini vMac, derived from vMac, is actively maintained by Paul C. Pratt. It currently supports emulation for Macintosh 128K, 512K, 512Ke, Plus, SE, and Classic. Development efforts are underway to add support for the Macintosh II, Macintosh Portable, and PowerBook 100. Due to high demand for the uncommon II, it also accepts ROM images from the Macintosh IIx and Macintosh SE/30 models.
Both vMac and Mini vMac require a Macintosh Plus ROM file along with system software, which are proprietary assets owned by Apple and thus cannot be legally redistributed. However, versions of vMac for Windows and Unix (excluding Mini vMac) can utilize the Gemulator ROM board produced by Emulators Inc., allowing users to install authentic MacPlus ROM chips via an ISA expansion slot. This hardware supports ROMs from various early Macintosh models, though official public versions of vMac only supported the Macintosh Plus. Official Macintosh system software can be obtained through Apple’s Support Downloads Website.
Mini vMac necessitates a distinct ROM image tailored to each emulated machine. The Mini vMac site provides a tool to extract a system’s ROM image alongside comprehensive guidance on acquiring ROMs and managing disk images.
See also
- Basilisk II, an emulator targeting later 68k Macintosh systems.
- Executor (software), a compatibility layer/emulator for early 68k Macintosh computers.
- SheepShaver, an emulator designed for early PowerPC-based Macs.
- PearPC, an emulator for PowerPC Macs capable of running Mac OS X as well as various open-source Unix-like operating systems.