Hosted by site sponsor WebMate.
eMac Q&A - Updated April 16, 2008
To be notified of new Q&As, sign up for EveryMac.com's bimonthly email list.
What version of the MacOS is pre-installed on the eMac? Which eMac models can boot MacOS 9? Which eMac models can only run MacOS 9 applications in the "Classic" Environment?
The original eMac models and the original "Combo Drive" configuration of the eMac G4/1.0 (ATI) (M8950LL/A) are capable of booting in MacOS 9. Subsequent models are only capable of booting a version of MacOS X and running MacOS 9 applications in the "Classic" Environment provided by MacOS X 10.4.11 "Tiger" and lower ("Classic" is not supported starting with MacOS X 10.5 "Leopard").
The version of the MacOS pre-installed, as well as the degree of MacOS 9 compatibility is provided on the specs page for each system.
However, this information also is provided in this handy chart for your convenience:
eMac | Pre-Installed | MacOS 9 Support |
9.2.2 & X 10.1.4 (5R106) | Boot/Classic Mode | |
9.2.2 & X 10.1.4 (5R106) | Boot/Classic Mode | |
9.2.2 & X 10.2.5 (6J73) | Boot/Classic Mode | |
9.2.2† & X 10.2.5 (6J73) | Boot/Classic Mode†* | |
X 10.3.3 (7G21) | Classic Mode Only* | |
X 10.4 (8A428) | Classic Mode Only* |
†Only the original "Combo" drive configuration (M8950LL/A) is capable of booting into MacOS 9.
*These models are capable of using MacOS 9 applications within the MacOS X "Classic" environment provided with MacOS X 10.4.11 "Tiger" and lower ("Classic" is not supported starting with MacOS X 10.5 "Leopard").
For more on MacOS 9, please refer to the MacOS 9/Classic Support Q&A.
The eMac series is capable of running Windows through emulation using a program like Microsoft Virtual PC 6.1 or Virtual PC 7, but it cannot boot Windows or run Windows via virtualization like the Intel-based Macs.
If you need a system capable of running Windows, you would be best served with an Intel-based Mac or a Windows PC.
For more on running Windows on Intel-based Macs, please also check out the Windows on Mac Q&A.
Yes. Adelie Linux is supported on the eMac.
Permalink | Report an Error/Typo | Sign Up for Site Update Notices
Established in 1996, EveryMac.com has been created by experts with decades of experience with Apple hardware. EveryMac.com includes, and always has included, original research incorporating detailed, hands-on inspection of packaging, computers, and devices as well as extensive real-world use. All information is provided in good faith, but no website or person is perfect. Accordingly, EveryMac.com is provided "as is" without warranty of any kind whatsoever. EveryMac.com, and the authors thereof, shall not be held responsible or liable, under any circumstances, for any damages resulting from the use or inability to use the information within. For complete disclaimer and copyright information please read and understand the Terms of Use and the Privacy Policy before using EveryMac.com. Copying, scraping, or use of any content without expressed permission is not allowed, although links to any page are welcomed and appreciated.