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eMac Q&A - Updated April 17, 2008
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How do you upgrade the RAM in the eMac models? How much RAM of what type do these systems support?
The original and ATI eMac models can be upgraded to a maximum of 1 GB or RAM by removing the pre-installed module and installing two 512 MB PC133* SDRAM DIMMs. The Apple Support Site provides instructions for installing RAM as well as replacing the AirPort card and battery in these systems.
The USB 2.0 and 2005 eMac models officially can be upgraded to a maximum of 1 GB of RAM by removing the pre-installed module and installing two 512 MB 333 MHz PC2700 DDR SDRAM DIMMs. However, third-parties, such as site sponsor Other World Computing, have discovered that these systems can support 2 GB of RAM with two 1 GB DIMMs. For these models, the Apple Support site provides instructions as well.
Specifics are provided on the specs page for each model, but for your convenience, details regarding compatible memory, number of memory slots, and maximum supported RAM also are provided below:
eMac |
RAM Type |
Slots |
Max |
PC133* SDRAM |
2 |
1.0 GB |
|
PC133* SDRAM |
2 |
1.0 GB |
|
PC133 SDRAM |
2 |
1.0 GB |
|
PC133 SDRAM |
2 |
1.0 GB |
|
333 MHz PC2700 DDR |
2 |
2.0 GB |
|
333 MHz PC2700 DDR |
2 |
2.0 GB |
*Although Apple's original specifications stated that these models shipped with PC100 RAM, Apple later noted that RAM must be "PC-133 compliant".
Please note that just because RAM meets the minimum listed criteria does not mean that it will necessarily function as intended in a particular Mac. When buying memory, be sure to buy from a quality vendor that has tested their RAM with your Mac to ensure compatibility.
Site sponsor Other World Computing sells memory compatible with the original and ATI eMac models as well as the USB 2.0 and 2005 systems.
Is the CPU on the eMac upgradable? How is it mounted?
According to the respective Apple Developers Notes for the original, ATI, USB 2.0 and 2005 eMac models (subsequently deleted), the processor in each is mounted directly to the motherboard. Consequently, it is not feasible to upgrade the processor in any eMac model.
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