While Apple retired the Power Macintosh G5 with the inclusion of the Intel Core Duo processors, they are still nothing to scoff at. As one of the first computers to incorporate 64 bit processing ability, it was one of the biggest advancements in computing technology at the time.

Even though Apple retired the Power Mac G5 computer from its manufacturing lineup, it's still a popular machine and is still a part of businesses around the world. While the new Mac Pro certainly has more horsepower than the Power Mac G5, remember that there were great things accomplished with the G5 in 2004 and 2005. Getting your hands on a Power Mac G5 maybe a good idea for you if:

1. You can't spend the money on the Mac Pro, but would like the ability to upgrade your Power Mac G5 easily

2. You don't mind large rendering projects taking a few minutes longer than they would on the Mac Pro

3. You like having a Mac that allows you to open up and add or swap internal components easily

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find Power Mac G5 computers used and refurbished

Since Apple no longer produces the Power Mac G5, it's become a little more difficult to find Power Apple G5 systems. You can no longer purchase one from Apple's website, so you now have to go beyond them and seek out these systems online.

I recommend: Check out MegaMacs and see their selection of used Power Mac G5 computers. They offer a 30 day warranty and give an honest account of each machine they sell, including physical abnormalities that don't affect the functionality of the device. The next place to look for a great deal on a preowned Power Mac G5 is DV Warehouse.

Use Power Apple G5 information and reviews to decide if it's the right computer for you

Even with the system now two years retired, there is a large Power Macintosh G5 directory of information and reviews online. Finding out everything you can about the system can help you decide if adding a G5 to your business is the right decision.

I recommend: A great place to find Power Macintosh G5 information and reviews is over at CNET, which offers editorial and user reviews. You may also be interested in Ars Technica.

Upgrade your Power Mac G5

Whether you're just buying a Power Mac G5 or you want to upgrade the one on your desk, doing it the right way is important. You can find a number of tutorials online about how to upgrade your Power Mac G5.

I recommend: Start with Apple's Support Website, which gives you detailed instructions on how to upgrade various aspects of the system. For memory upgrades, check out Edge for a whole collection of G5 compatible memory.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Consider holding onto your Power Mac G5 even if you're upgrading to a Mac Pro. Even two years later, the Power Mac G5 can hold its own and would make an excellent secondary system.