mikeyrko

Q: Just got a iMac need hard drive ram info

I Just got a iMac G4 1.25 20 inch it needs a hard drive. what type of hard drive do I need? also I want to add the max amount of ram I know it needs 2 different types of ram what type do I need?

Also the hard drive interface cable is missing will a normal ide cable work out of a normal computer?

Thanks

Posted on Feb 22, 2012 6:09 PM

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Q: Just got a iMac need hard drive ram info

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  • by a brody,Helpful

    a brody a brody Feb 22, 2012 6:50 PM in response to mikeyrko
    Level 9 (66,781 points)
    Classic Mac OS
    Feb 22, 2012 6:50 PM in response to mikeyrko

    Make sure it is Parallel ATA/IDE.  SATA will not work with the iMac G4. Make sure the drive jumper as is labelled on the old drive has a configuration matched on the new drive.  Jumper configurations differ by manufacturer.   It should state on the drive label what is slave, master, and cable select, and you should match that status on the new drive based on the new drive's label.   The drive has to be 3.5".   Be extremely careful to follow any directions involving thermal paste as well as heat/cooling pads. If those are not included in your directions, get them from another site.    If the amount of cooling gel is not obvious, have an authorized center do it.  This article should direct you to the right specs page:

     

    http://support.apple.com/kb/HT2643

    Lastly, you may find directions require adjusting the neck with a special hard to find tool.  Check with your local authorized service center if the neck adjustment is necessary after the installation.

  • by mikeyrko,

    mikeyrko mikeyrko Feb 22, 2012 7:38 PM in response to mikeyrko
    Level 1 (0 points)
    Feb 22, 2012 7:38 PM in response to mikeyrko

    Ok still need to know about the ram ide cable and I don't think the original drive is in there.

  • by a brody,

    a brody a brody Feb 22, 2012 7:40 PM in response to mikeyrko
    Level 9 (66,781 points)
    Classic Mac OS
    Feb 22, 2012 7:40 PM in response to mikeyrko

    It depends on the length of the cable.  Too long a cable might not fit in the cramped space inside.  The RAM is in the specifications entry on the above link.    Mind you, it is better to shop not by specs, but by model and vintage of Mac when it comes to RAM*:

     

    http://www.macmaps.com/badram.html

    Many have found they buy the "correct" spec, only to find their timing is off.

  • by rccharles,

    rccharles rccharles Feb 24, 2012 4:00 PM in response to a brody
    Level 6 (8,471 points)
    Classic Mac OS
    Feb 24, 2012 4:00 PM in response to a brody

    one place to buy memory:

    http://eshop.macsales.com/shop/memory/iMac-G3-G4

     

    Robert