Know Your System Requirements
Not all older Macs can run Mac OS X. If you have a Mac that has been running some version of OS X just fine, then there should be no problem installing Tiger on it.But if you are planning to put OS X on a Mac for the first time, make sure the computer fulfills these requirements:
- PowerPC G3, G4, or G5 processor .
If you're not sure, go to the Apple menu and choose "About This Mac." This will display the window shown below, which tells you which processor your Mac is using. - Apple DVD drive .
It's possible you can install it from a third-party external dvd drive, but Apple does not support it (meaning they won't give you any tech support for it.) - Built-in FireWire port .
Look for a port with this symbol: - At least 256 megabytes of RAM (memory) .
More is always better. Lots more. The window shown above also tells you how much memory your Mac has. - At least 3 gigabytes of empty disk space on your main hard disk. You'll need 4 gigabytes if you plan to install the developer tools. If you need just a little more room than what you have, see page 10 for one option during the installation process.
- Built-in monitor or an Apple monitor .
If you bought a different monitor, it must be connected to an Apple video card supported by your Mac.
Do you need to update the firmware?
If you're planning to install Tiger on an older one-piece iMac (not the bubble-bottom kind or the new all-in-the-monitor kind, but the ones that are all one piece and colored blue or orange or red, etc.) or any other older Macintosh, you may need to update the firmware. Sometimes the installer software will warn you if you need to do this, but sometimes it doesn't. If you have an old machine, it's best to go check Apple's web site and see if there is a firmware update for your particular Mac. Go to