768k VRAM in original Macintosh LC

[zackl]

The Mac LC maxes out at 512k VRAM

Is this a hardware limitation or noted as there weren't larger single VRAM simms available for the original LC?

EG - there's a 768k VRAM simm (labeled for the radius pivot board) dirt cheap on EBAY ->

http://www.ebay.com/itm/SIMM-MEMORY-Module-MAC-LC-PIVOT-RADIUS-768K-VRAM-334-0026-A-MICRON-749-/370450005504?pt=US_Memory_RAM_&hash=item56408a7e00

 

[Byrd]

Pretty sure it's a hardware limitation - and running thousands/millions of colours on an LC would be like watching an etch-a-sketch

 

[Scott Baret]

I've done thousands of colors on an original LC. It actually does quite well with it. In fact, the only real problem I can think of is that so much software from that time period prefers 256 or 16.

Keep in mind you'll have to use a 12" RGB to get that depth on an LC. If you use 640 x 480, 8-bit is the best you can do.

You'll need 512K VRAM for 16-bit at 512 x 384 (the resolution of the 12" RGB). A stock LC only has 256K, which outputs 4-bit color on a 640 x 480 screen and 8-bit color on the 12-incher (commonly called an "LC Monitor" or "LC Topper" by veteran Mac users).

The LC II and Color Classic work exactly the same in this regard. (The Color Classic's built-in screen has the same resolution as the 12" RGB unless said Color Classic has been modded). The reason for this odd resolution on the "matching" monitor was for Apple II compatibility.