The iMac G3/500 released early in 2001 stands apart from the previous G3 iterations. Not only the processor speed was increased, but also the cache memory and the VRAM. The hard drive and RAM capacity weren’t increased significantly, but the CD drive was now a writing one. So, the iMac G3/500 features a 500 MHz PowerPC 750cx (G3) processor with a 256k on-chip level 2 cache, 64 MB of RAM, a 20.0 GB Ultra ATA hard drive, a slot loading 8X/4X/24X CD-RW drive, ATI Rage 128 Ultra (AGP 2X) graphics with 16 MB of VRAM and Firewire “400” ports not to mention the in-built speakers, a 15-inch CRT display and AirPort support. The iMac G3/500 is available in three colors: Indigo, Flower Power, Blue Dalmatian.
Contents
iMac G3/500 (Early 2001 – Indigo/Flower Power/Blue Dalmatian)
Introduced on: February 22, 2001.
Specifications
- Code name: “Kiva”.
- Processor Speed: 500 MHz.
- Processor Architecture: 32-bit.
- Processor type: PowerPC 750cx Sidewinder “G3”.
- Cores: 1.
- On-Board Ram: 64 MB or 128 MB (Expandable to 1 GB (512 MB supported by Apple).
- Video: 15-inch (13.8-inch viewable) shadow-mask CRT screen with 1024 x 768 pixel resolution.
- Graphics: ATI Rage 128 Ultra (AGP 2X) video with 16 MB of VRAM.
- Storage: 10 GB, 5400-rpm ATA-3 up to 128 GB Hard Drive Supported.
- Input\Output: 2x USB 1.1, 2x FireWire 400 2x Headphone mini-jacks, Analog audio input mini-jack, Built-in stereo speakers.
- Optical drive: 4X/8X/24X CD-RW.
- Internet \ Wireless connection: Optional 11 Mbit/s AirPort 802.11b (adapter required), 10/100 BASE-T Ethernet, 56k modem 4 Mbit/s, IrDA.
- OS: Preinstalled OS: 9.1. OS max. upgrade: 10.4.11.
- Dimensions: 15.0 x 15.0 x 17.1 inch.
- Weight: 34.7 lb.
- Colors: Indigo, Flower Power, Blue Dalmatian.
Apple Orders, Discontinuation, Price
Model No: M5521 (EMC 1857).
Apple Order number: M7669LL/A – Indigo, M8348LL/A – Flower Power, M8347LL/A – Blue Dalmatian.
Discontinued: July 18, 2001.
Price: $1199.
Miscellanea
- The Indigo model turned out to be the most popular one, the other two weren’t considered too “hot” after all. The new processor helped to significantly boost the iMac performance.
- Small in size but not in quality PowerPC 750cx (code name Sidewinder) has low power requirements and is a great departure from the previous 6xx family. And it was used exclusively in iMacs and iBooks revisions.
Follow These Instructions for Using iMac Safely and Wisely.
Safety
Keep these instructions handy for reference by you and others who may use your computer follow all instructions and warnings regarding your system. When setting up and using your computer, remember the following:
- Place the computer in a location with adequate ventilation. Never block the vents on the computer.
- This iMac model has a three-wire grounding plug that will only fit a grounded AC outlet. If you are unable to insert the plug into the outlet, contact a licensed electrician to replace the outlet with a properly grounded outlet.
- Make sure you only connect the modem to an analog phone line, the type commonly used in residences. Do not connect a digital telephone line to the modem, because it could damage the modem.
- Never turn on your computer unless all of its internal and external parts are in place. Operating the computer when it is open or missing parts can be dangerous and damage your computer.
Important note: The only way to disconnect power completely is to unplug the power cord. Make sure at least one end of the power cord is within easy reach so that you can unplug the computer when you need to.
Warning: Electrical equipment may be hazardous if misused. Operation of this product must always be supervised by an adult. Do not allow children access to the interior of this product and do not permit them to handle any cables.
For your own safety and that of your equipment, always disconnect the power plug (by pulling the plug, not the cord) if any of the following conditions exists:
- You want to remove any parts (leave the cord disconnected as long as the computer is open).
- The power cord or plug becomes frayed or otherwise damaged.
- You spill something into the case.
- Your computer is exposed to rain or any other excess moisture.
- Your computer has been dropped or the case has been otherwise damaged.
- You suspect that your computer needs service or repair.
- You want to clean the case (use only the recommended procedure discussed in Mac Help).
Be sure that you always do the following:
- Keep your computer away from sources of liquids, such as drinks, washbasins, bathtubs, shower stalls, and so on.
- Protect your computer from dampness or wet weather, such as rain, snow, and so on.
Cleaning your computer equipment: To clean your computer equipment, use only the recommended procedures discussed in Mac Help.
Power supply: The power supply in your computer is a high-voltage component and not user-serviceable. If you suspect the power supply needs service, contact your Apple-authorized dealer or service provider.
Power-saving and environmental features: Your display is equipped with energy-saving features that allow the display to conserve energy when the computer is not in use. For instructions on adjusting the system and display sleep settings and additional energy-conservation information, see Mac Help.
ENERGY STAR: As an ENERGY STAR partner, Apple has determined that this product meets the ENERGY STAR guidelines for energy efficiency. The ENERGY STAR program is a partnership with office product equipment manufacturers to promote energy efficiency. Reducing energy consumption of office products saves money and reduces pollution by eliminating wasted energy.
Warning: Do not attempt to access the high-voltage area or power supply. If you suspect the power supply needs service, contact your Apple-authorized dealer or service provider. Do not clean the screen with a cleaner that contains alcohol or acetone. Never spray cleaner directly onto the screen. Liquid could drip inside the screen and cause an electrical shock.
Links
- Trade in your old and used iMac at iGotOffer: We pay the best price online for your used Device – Sell used iMac online now.
Overview: Apple iMac G3 vs iMac (Late 2012). Video published by Carlo Chim on November 2, 2013. Apple iMac G3 15-inch (Summer 2001 / OS X Tiger).