What is iMac G3 Firmware Update 4.1.9?

The iMac Firmware Update 4.1.9 will only run on iMac G3 computers with slot-loading CD or DVD drives running Mac OS 9.1 or 9.2 from a local drive. If you are using Mac OS X you must boot from a local Mac OS 9.1 or 9.2 writeable partition (not a CD, or network disk) prior to following the update instructions.

Firmware Update 4.1.9 is mandatory if you want to run Mac OS X 10.4 Tiger on your iMac G3 and it also includes improvements to starting up Mac OS X from the local hard disk, Firewire target disk mode, network startup, and system stability. This update also adds support for additional security options which allow the Open Firmware to be password protected.

Note: After you install this update, the parameter RAM (PRAM) is reset. This may reset some of your control panels to default settings. See Mac Help, available in the Help menu, for more information on changing your control panel settings.

Note: If a message says your firmware is up-to-date with version 4.1.9 of the iMac Firmware Updater, or that this version of the iMac Firmware Updater will not run on this computer, then you do not need this update. If a message says you need to install Mac OS 9.1, the firmware updater will not run until you install Mac OS 9.1 or 9.2.

 

Please read all the instructions before you begin:

1. Double-click the iMac Firmware Updater icon.
2. Follow the onscreen instructions. When prompted, click Shut Down in the dialog box to shut down your iMac.
3. Locate the programmer's button on the side of the iMac, to the right of the reset button. Press and hold in the programmer's button. You may need to use a pen or a straightened paper clip.
4. While you hold in the programmer's button, press the Power button to start up your iMac.
5. Continue to hold in the programmer's button until you hear a long tone. Release the programmer's button when you hear the tone. The update starts automatically.

A status bar shows the progress of the update. When a message says your computer's firmware has been successfully updated to version 4.1.9, you are finished.

Note: If a message says the update was not completed successfully, review the instructions and begin the update process again.

 

Download iMac G3 Firmware Update 4.1.9 for Mac

Architecture

IBM PowerPC

System Requirements

From Mac OS 9.1 up to Mac OS 9.2

Compatibility notes

Architecture: PPC

Mac OS 9.1 - Mac OS 9.2.2

Important: This firmware update only works with an iMac G3 (1998 to 2002).