Apple Event: May 7th at 7 am PT
I will be purchasing an iMac G3 this week. I already know that it is currently running on OS 8.6. I found the old OS X Jaguar (10.2), I was wondering can I just install the discs, or do I need any more requirements?? Please help me.
iMac, Mac OS 8.6 or Earlier, Please help.
Ensure that it's firmware is up to date before inserting the Mac OS X install disks. If it's a slot-loading iMac, this requires buying a Mac OS 9 CD.
(76097)
Ensure that it's firmware is up to date before inserting the Mac OS X install disks. If it's a slot-loading iMac, this requires buying a Mac OS 9 CD.
(76097)
The market value of those old iMacs is very low now, so I hope that you aren't paying any more than $30 for one. What model are you purchasing - the original with a tray-loading optical drive or the newer style with a slot-loading drive? If the latter, which model (processor speed) is it? You shouldn't buy one manufactured before built-in FireWire became standard, because you'll want a faster bus for external peripherals. The built-in USB ports are limited to USB 1.1 speed, which is quite slow for an external CD/DVD burner or hard drive. Before installing OS X, a tray-loading iMac should have firmware version 1.2 and a slot-loading iMac should have version 4.1.9. Additionally, the iMac should have adequate available storage capacity on the hard drive, as well as adequate installed memory. The OS 10.2.x (Jaguar) installer disk should be a retail (universal installer) disk, and not another Mac's Restore disk. One other point to mention concerns the hours of useage that the iMac has had. High-mileage iMacs often have problems with the P-A-V (Power/Analog/Video) board failing, which renders the computer useless. Replacement is a job for an experienced tech, because of the high-voltage shock hazard involved. Additionally, new P-A-V boards aren't available and used ones have questionable remaining service life. Just keep this in mind.
Jeff: Can I update the Firmware through the computer, or do I need to find another disc? I am actually paying $90 for it today. Its coming with more than just the computer though. I actually have no idea what else it will come with besides the computer itself and the keyboard and mouse.
It depends; the firmware update for tray-loading iMacs can be run on Mac OS 8.6 and is available here. The firmware update for slot-loading iMacs is also available on the web, but requires Mac OS 9, which must be installed from a disk first.
Both of the firmware update links in Jeff's post are out of date and broken.
(76126)
One thing that has helped preserve my G3, going on 12 years, from a PAV failure is that I run a 6" clip-on fan over the top where the exhaust vent is. Since it's an AC fan it needs to be located far away enough from the computer in order to avoid electromagentic interference to the CRT screen. You want to maximize air flow over the top. In additon, I never run it, or at least not for very long, in hot weather.
I am purchasing an iMac G3. I know that it is running on OS 8.6. I have found the old Mac OS X Jaguar (10.2), if I purchase the software, will I need any more requirements?
