Q: My computer is running  10.6.8 with 1 GB of Memory. Please advise how to upgrade this. I need at least 10.7 to get my Garmin Maps Update

10.7 and 10.8 can only be purchased from the Apple Store and then redeemed using the App Store.

If supported by your machine (you'll need more RAM) 10.9 Maverick is a free download:

http://support.apple.com/kb/HT5842?viewlocale=en_US&locale=en_US

Read this before upgrading:

https://discussions.apple.com/docs/DOC-6271

You need to find out what model of iMac you have (what year). This may be visible is "About This Mac" under the Apple menu, or the System Information app that you can click from there.

From this, you can find out whether your Mac can upgrade to Mavericks 10.9, or Lion 10.7 (if it's older).

Next, you need to buy more RAM. Many web shop selling RAM, like Crucial.com let you select your Mac model, and then they teill you what RAM you need.

Installing the RAM is pretty easy: unscrew a plate on the bottom edge of the iMac, remove the old RAM and add the new. There are videos on the web showing you how to do this.

Yep, 10.7 or later require at least 2 GB of RAM, preferably 4 GB if your machine supports it.

Check that your computer is compatible with Mountain Lion/Mavericks.

To check the model number hold down the option/alt key, go to the Apple menu and select System Information.

• iMac (Mid 2007 or newer) model number 7,1 or higher

I have purchased RAM several times from Other World Computing and have always been very satisfied with the product and service. They also have on-line instructions on how to replace the RAM. OWC has also tested RAM above what Apple states is the minimum. I now have 6GB installed on a machine supposedly limited to 4 GB.

Other World Computing