11-03-2010, 03:34 PM

Okay, so my iMac G4 is sluggish to say the least. I know most of this is due to the slow processor, but since that is non upgradeable, and I'm not in any position for a new computer, I suppose a Ram upgrade is the next best thing. I know that a 512 MB stick will fit in each ram slot, and I currently have 256 MB in each slot. I don't really want to crack the entire computer open, so I'm thinking about only upgrading the easy access slot on the bottom to 512 MB. Giving me a grand total of 768 MB of ram. So what kind of ram exactly am I going to need? And how much extra speed is more Ram actually going to offer?

11-03-2010, 04:28 PM

Originally Posted by MacDude121

Okay, so my iMac G4 is sluggish to say the least. I know most of this is due to the slow processor, but since that is non upgradeable, and I'm not in any position for a new computer, I suppose a Ram upgrade is the next best thing. I know that a 512 MB stick will fit in each ram slot, and I currently have 256 MB in each slot. I don't really want to crack the entire computer open, so I'm thinking about only upgrading the easy access slot on the bottom to 512 MB. Giving me a grand total of 768 MB of ram. So what kind of ram exactly am I going to need? And how much extra speed is more Ram actually going to offer?

Go to one of these guys:

OWC
Crucial

...and follow either of their step by step guides to identifying the ram you need.

You didn't mention the OS version you're running (10.2, 10.3, 10.4)...but the:

- newer the OS version the probably the better the performance increase you will see (newer the OS version, the more ram it needs).
- the performance increase would also depend on what programs you're running.
- more ram will allow you to run simultaneous applications more smoothly

But I wouldn't expect miracles...the performance increase may or may not be noticeable...and of course the non-upgradeable cpu & gpu play a big part.

11-03-2010, 05:20 PM

Thanks Nick, I'm running 10.4. I just checked Crucial and my jaw dropped, $74.99 for one 512 MB module? I could probably buy a faster computer for that much!

11-03-2010, 05:23 PM

Oh well OWC only charges $29.99. That makes me feel better.

11-03-2010, 05:29 PM

Originally Posted by MacDude121

Oh well OWC only charges $29.99. That makes me feel better.

Yes...$29.99 is a price I would have expected...sounds like Crucial is pretty pricey. Of course even $29.99 is sort of expensive for an older computer for 512meg of ram...but it is what it is.

- Nick

11-03-2010, 05:32 PM

Yeah, I'll check around and see if I can get a better price somewhere.

11-03-2010, 07:33 PM

Originally Posted by MacDude121

Yeah, I'll check around and see if I can get a better price somewhere.

OWC is pretty much the best (price, return policy, and customer service)...when it comes to new ram.

You could try e-Bay for cheaper used ram. But it can be risky...and I seem to remember you haven't figured out e-Bay yet.

- Nick