- #OLD MAC PPC SOFTWARE HOW TO#
- #OLD MAC PPC SOFTWARE MAC OS#
- #OLD MAC PPC SOFTWARE UPGRADE#
- #OLD MAC PPC SOFTWARE WINDOWS#
If you don’t need the features in the most recent system software version compatible with your Mac, upgrade to an earlier version instead. The fabulous features of a newer OS may not benefit you if your Mac slows to a crawl.
#OLD MAC PPC SOFTWARE MAC OS#
(You can usually find this information in the application’s manual or in a Read Me file on the installer disk.) As a general rule, it’s better to choose a recent Mac OS version, but keep in mind that newer software releases usually make more demands on RAM, hard drives, and processors. Next, find out which system software versions work with the programs you’ll be running on your Mac.
) to get the hardware requirements for any system software release you’re considering. The database doesn’t always list the most-recent compatible version, so also check Apple’s technical-support site ( Although there’s no foolproof formula that can tell you whether investing in add-on hardware is worth the cost, some basic math will help you decide if it makes sense to put money into an old computer.Ĭonsult the Apple Spec database to see which Mac OS versions your Mac supports. Alas, deciding whether to upgrade your hardware isn’t usually as straightforward. Software upgrades for old Macs are usually painless and relatively inexpensive. Also be sure to check the first item in the Finder’s Apple menu (About This Computer or About This Macintosh, depending on your system software version) to see how much memory is installed in your Mac. ) provides similar information for many Mac clones. ), an online catalog that lists hardware details and release dates for every Macintosh system ever shipped by Apple. To find out what’s inside your Mac, consult the Apple Spec database ( But before you add anything to your Mac, make sure that you know its specifications-especially the processor’s speed and model and the types of ports and slots-which will determine what upgrades and peripherals the computer can support and what types of new jobs it can do. You can find an authorized facility in your local yellow pages or on Apple’s Web site (Īs you might expect, the most economical way to put an old Mac to work is to use it “as is.” If you can’t think of a use for your unmodified Mac, you may be able to extend its capabilities by adding software or hardware. For a fee, most service cen-ters will provide an estimate of what repairing your Mac will cost. If you can’t repair the problem yourself, you should probably seek the advice of a certified Apple technician. ) gives specifications and installation instructions for many older models and clones. Replacing the battery in most Mac models is relatively straightforward-the Macintosh Battery Web Page ( A computer that doesn’t boot at all may be suffering from something as simple as a dead battery or as serious as a burned-out component on the logic board. (Peachpit Press, 2000) is an excellent resource when you need to find out what’s ailing your Mac. If your Mac exhibits any unusual behavior, such as distorted video or frequent crashes, a bit of troubleshooting is in order.
You can get replacements for missing or damaged accessories from specialty vendors such as Sun Remarketing (800/821-3221,
Your retired Mac may need to be revived before it can be put to work, and there are several places to which you can turn for help.
#OLD MAC PPC SOFTWARE HOW TO#
In future “Old Mac, New Tricks” features, we’ll propose specific uses for older Macs and show you how to outfit them for their new roles. (In fact, our guide to using an older Mac to back up the computers on your network is available now at : see “Case Study: Making a Backup Server.”) In this, the first installment of our series, we’ll discuss what you need to do before you try to make your aging Mac perform new tricks, and we’ll tell you where to find the software and hardware you’re likely to need. In our “Old Mac, New Tricks” series, we’ll be showing you how to convert older Macs into useful members of your business or household as MP3 jukeboxes, Web servers, and more. If you find the right job for it, you can still get plenty of use out of your old Mac friend, often with only a small investment in hardware, software, or both.ĭuring the Mac’s 17-year history, Apple and its erstwhile partners Power Computing, Motorola, and Umax have sold hundreds of models and variations finding resources for aging computers can be like locating parts for a 1956 Chevy.
#OLD MAC PPC SOFTWARE WINDOWS#
Remember that old Power Mac 7500 you banished to the attic when you bought your speedy new G4 last year? Granted, it’s not the lightning-fast Windows killer it used to be, but that doesn’t mean it’s ready for the junk pile.
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