Skip to main content

1.6, 1.8, or 2 GHz G5 processor

131 Questions View all
Question Closed

Is it worth it to upgrade to 10.4 or 10.5?

I got a hand-me-down G5 for free. I want to have it on hand for the kids to use for homework, etc., but don't really care if it has the latest gaming capabilities or any of that stuff. I would like to load iWork '08 onto it (I already have the iWork disks.)

Right now the G5 has 512 MB DDR SDRAM. I understand that I could upgrade to 2 gigs on this machine. I also understand that we'll need to buy the upgrade disks to go from OS 10.3 to either 10.4 or 10.5.

My question is: Is it worth it to pay to do these upgrades? Since the computer didn't cost me anything, I'd only be sinking in whatever it takes to update it. What do you think?

Answered! View the answer I have this problem too

Is this a good question?

Score 0
Add a comment

1 Answer

Chosen Solution

Hi, 512 MB should run 10.3 without problem. The newer the operating system the more memory is required. For the purpose you describe (homework/research on the net) 10.3 should be adequate but you will not be able to run the newer versions of many browsers. If I were to upgrade anything right now it would be memory--up to 1GB. Enjoy your new unit. Ralph

iMac G5 17" Model A1058 RAM Replacement

Was this answer helpful?

Score 1

4 Comments:

Rereading your post I've done some further research and find the requirements for iWork 08 include OS 10.4--512 MB ram but 1 GB recommended. I have included the spec sheet from Apple for you. Ralph

http://support.apple.com/kb/HT3879

by

For what you have in it, I would take it to 10.5. It's really going to be a handicap to the kids if they're using the web. I do agree aout upgrading the RAM.

by

I would agree -- go to 10.5. Surprisingly it will be less expensive than going to 10.4. Ralph

by

You would need a RETAIL full install disk to go to 10.5 skipping 10.4. I would be very careful about buying on ebay as there are many copies for sale that the sellers either don't know what they have. Ralph

by

Add a comment
View Statistics:

Past 24 Hours: 0

Past 7 Days: 0

Past 30 Days: 0

All Time: 1,101