Macintosh® computers contain an internal backup battery to maintain system settings, such as the date and time, when the computer is turned off . The battery may last up to five years though actual life is determined by shelf life of the battery and usage patterns of the computer. The batteries used in the Macintosh computers listed below are alkaline, and are 4.5V.

When the computer does not retain PRAM settings (such as the date and time) after it has been turned off, this generally indicates a dead battery. Some Macintosh models, such as the Power Macintosh® 7100 and the Quadra 605, display a black screen when the battery has failed and the computer is turned on.