The Power Mac 5200-series and its LC (educational channels) and Performa variants have two (2) 72-pin slots and a 32-bit data bus. This computer requires standard 70ns non-parity SIMMs or faster, in either 2k or 4k refresh, and typically ships with either an 8MB or 16MB SIMM in one of the SIMM slots.As there is no DRAM soldered to the logic board, the 5200-series requires that at least one SIMM be installed for the computer to boot. SIMMs may be installed in any slot, in any order, and in any size, with supported memory configurations including 8MB, 12MB, 16MB, 20MB, 24MB, 32MB, 36MB, 40MB, 48MB and 64MB. Since this logic board does not have a 64-bit data path, there is no need to install SIMMs in pairs, as in earlier generations of Power Macintosh. The maximum amount of usable memory in the 5200-series & variants is 64MB, in the form of two (2) 32MB SIMMs.
This motherboard does not support memory interleaving.
L2 cache comes preinstalled in most variants, soldered onto the motherboard in the case of the Power Mac 5200, and in the form of a proprietary SIMM that also hosts ROM ICs on its reverse side in the case of the 5215.
The 100mHz 5260 alone ships with no L2 cache preinstalled, accepting an optional (yet highly recommended) 160-pin L2 cache SIMM (part number M4849LL/A, High Performance Module for Power Macintosh 5260), which is available through Apple Authorized Service Providers. Additional information on the 5260 is available in Macintosh 5260, 5400, 6400 & 6360: L2 Cache Differences (TECHINFO-0019590).
Article Power Mac 5200 Level 2 Processor Cache (TECHINFO-0017970) from Apple's Technical Information Library (TIL) confirms the unavailability of third-party L2 cache SIMMs for this motherboard in general, and the unavailability of appropriate Apple-manufactured L2 cache SIMMs in capacities larger than 256k. Replacement pieces, in the event of defect, must be ordered through Apple Authorized Service Providers.
It should be noted that this series qualifies for a highly publicized seven year Repair Extension Program which addresses manufacturing defects in motherboard, L2 cache, and video cables. Details may be found in the following TIL articles:
- 5200 6200 Microprocessor Issue (TECHINFO-0018616);
- 5xxx 6xxx Tester LB - Cache (TECHINFO-0020059);
- 5200 5300 6200 6300 Q-A (TECHINFO-0019973); and particularly in
- 5200 5300 6200 6300 Repair Extension Program (TECHINFO-0019756).
The utility applications mentioned in these technical documents may be downloaded from the system update directories on Apple's Information Support Website.
Specifications Logic Board RAM None Supported SIMMs 8MB, 16MB, 32MB. Number SIMM Slots Two (2). Supported VRAM 1MB non-upgradeable, DRAM frame buffer. Number VRAM Slots None. L2 Cache Supported 256k on proprietary Apple SIMM module. SIMM Type 72-pin, FPM 32-bit, 2k or 4k refresh, 70ns or faster.
While some of the products mentioned on this page may no longer be available, the information about these products remains available to those who may need it.
As noted, the 5200-series have no VRAM slots on the logic board, and therefore no expansion beyond the 1MB DRAM frame buffer is feasible. It is possible, however, to install a dwindling variety of video cards into the LC-style PDS slot of these computers, affording access to higher video resolutions, and permitting use of larger monitors in addition to the built-in video displays.