New Acquisition: Apple iMac G3/333 - RU91511LG5P

New Acquisition: Apple iMac G3/333 (Blueberry)

Make	Model	Serial Number
Apple Computer	iMac G3/333 (Blueberry)	RU91511LG5P

Overview

• Manufacturer: Apple Computer.
• Production Years: April 1999 – October 1999.
• Historical Significance: The iMac G3/333 was part of the second wave of “Fruit Colors” iMacs, featuring a faster processor and a bold translucent design. The Blueberry edition was one of five colors and helped redefine the aesthetic of personal computing at the turn of the millennium.
• Architecture: Built around the PowerPC 750 (G3) processor, this all-in-one system combined performance, style, and simplicity, targeting home and education users.

Specification

• Processor: PowerPC 750 (G3) @ 333 MHz with 512KB backside L2 cache.
• Memory: 32MB RAM standard, expandable to 128MB officially (up to 512MB unofficially).
• Storage: 6GB EIDE hard drive; 24x CD-ROM drive.
• Display: 15-inch CRT with 1024×768 maximum resolution.
• Graphics: ATI Rage Pro Turbo with 6MB SGRAM.
• Audio: Stereo speakers with internal amplifier; built-in microphone.
• Connectivity:
  • 2× USB 1.1 ports.
  • 10/100Base-T Ethernet.
  • 56k modem.
  • Headphone and speaker jacks.
• Expansion: No PCI slots; memory and VRAM upgradeable via internal access.
• Operating System: Mac OS 8.5.1 to Mac OS X 10.3.9 (with limitations).
• Common Faults:
  • PRAM battery failure causing boot issues.
  • CRT convergence or brightness degradation.
  • Hard drive failure due to age.
  • Cracked or yellowed plastics from UV exposure.

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How Did I Acquire It?

Where Did I Get It From?

We picked this up from facebook marketplace, a chance lookup as we were driving back from a day out on the beech

How Was It Described to Me?

It was described as vintage apple computer with keyboard and mouse working.

Stock Photos

Stock Photos

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Now That I Have It in My Hands

Initial Observations

Gosh it heavy - but it does work

Initial Inspection

Ths OS has been upgraded to MacOS 9.0 at some point in time, however it does still have the previous users personal data so a disk refresh is due.

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Next Steps

Repair and Restoration Plan

1. Immediate disk wipe and OS refresh
2. Replace the built in battery - check if the old one has caused damage by leaking
3. Clean and refurbish the CD drive
4. Recap the boards if required

Goals

1. What could it have been upgraded to it in its day, what was the maximum spec & OS it can be tricked out to?
2. Can we upgrade the processor?
3. Can we replace the slot loading CD with a DVD

Challenges

Whilst it supports wired RJ45 networking, even the last supported OS is not going to have a browser that is still security signed for internet TLS/HTTPS access.   

Does anybody make an alternative live browser that still works on a 25 year old machine?