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Q
& A:
PB
G3 Q & A:
Storage & Peripherals
How can I transfer files from my
existing Mac to my PowerBook G3?
Unlike the iMac, all models in the PowerBook G3 series are nicely equipped with removable storage, so file transfer is generally straightforward. However, if your older Mac only has a 1.44 MB floppy and your PowerBook G3 only has a Zip drive, then you may wish to look into other means of file transfer.
If both Macs have modems, an easy way to transfer files is to stuff and binhex the files you wish to transfer using Aladdin Systems' StuffIt. Just go online with the older Mac, log onto a server, and upload the files. Then log off with the older Mac, log onto the server with the new Mac and download your files. Translate and decompress the files using StuffIt Expander, and you're ready to go. Obviously, this type of file transfer is intended to be somewhat secure as long as it is password protected, but you still shouldn't transmit any sensitive information.
If server space is not readily available, you can sign up with a website that provides free server space intended for file transfer such as iMacFloppy.com. iMacFloppy.com was designed explicitly for the iMac, but it works equally well for any other Mac, and is super easy-to-use. SSL encryption is available to substantially increases security for a modest monthly fee. Even if you don't intend to transfer your files online, be sure to check it out as it might be useful later.
Alternately, you can stuff and binhex files on your older Mac and e-mail them to yourself, and then check your e-mail on the new Mac to download them. This works best for files that are only a couple of megabytes in size, and keep in mind that e-mail transmissions are not secure.
You also can network your older Mac and PowerBook G3 together for easy file transfer. If your older Mac has Ethernet built in, like all Power Macs and some Quadras, you usually will just need a simple crossover cable to connect two Macs together. You can look up your Mac or MacOS-Compatible here on EveryMac.com to see if your Mac has Ethernet pre-installed. The excellent Mac networking site, Three Macs & A Printer, covers this basic type of networking in-depth in Setting up a Crossover Cable Ethernet Network.
Or, if you have an abundance of old floppy disks, you can purchase an internal SuperDisk drive for your PowerBook G3. The Imation USB SuperDisk reads and writes standard 1.44 MB disks in addition to 120 MB SuperDisks.
What removable storage options are available for the PowerBook G3 series?
The original PowerBook G3 and some "Wallstreet" and "PDQ" models shipped standard with a 1.44 MB floppy disk drive. An internal Zip drive was an option for many Wallstreet models, and shipped standard with some configurations of the "PDQ" series.
Both the "Bronze" PowerBook G3 and PowerBook G3 "FW" series could optionally be configured with either an VST internal Zip drive or SuperDisk drive.
A Zip drive or SuperDisk drive can easily be added to a model that did not have one or the other pre-installed with a kit from VST Technologies.
What ports are provided by the "Bronze" and PowerBook G3 "FW" series?
The "Bronze" PowerBook G3 series include two USB ports, a SCSI port, a 10/100Base-T Ethernet port, an optional modem port (RJ-11), a 24-bit video out port (VGA), an S-video out port, sound in/out, a security port, and a PC card slot. The PowerBook G3 "FW" series includes all of the above ports except for the SCSI port, which it exchanges for two FireWire ports.
Other connection types can be added with a PC card.
Can USB and FireWire be added to the PowerBook G3 series?
Yes, both USB and FireWire PC cards are available that are compatible with the PowerBook G3 series.
MacAlly sells a PC card that adds two USB ports to the original, "Wallstreet", or "PDQ" PowerBook G3, and Newer Technology sold a "FireWire2Go" PC card, which adds two FireWire ports to any PowerBook G3 model. As Newer Technology filed for bankruptcy on December 28, 2000, the "FireWire2Go" card is no longer available, and unfortunately, an alternate solution is not available at this time.
The PowerBook G3 "FW" (FireWire) series already includes dual USB and FireWire ports.
Can external SCSI be added to the "Bronze" or PowerBook G3 "FW" series?
Unlike the Blue and White Power Macintosh G3 series, which no longer includes onboard SCSI, the "Bronze" PowerBook G3 series includes a SCSI port, so it is not necessary to add external SCSI. However, the "Bronze" series of PowerBook G3s does not have FireWire ports.
The PowerBook G3 "FW" (FireWire) series, on the other hand, includes two FireWire ports, but lacks a SCSI port. SCSI support can be added with a PC card.
What adapters are available for "legacy" devices?
Various companies are busy manufacturing adapters that will allow ADB and serial-based devices to work with the USB-equipped models, which include the "Bronze" PowerBook G3 and the PowerBook G3 "FW" series.
An ADB-to-USB adapter is available from Griffin Technology, called the iMate, it will allow you to hook up ADB-based keyboards, mice, joysticks, trackballs, scanners, and such to USB-based PowerBook G3 models.
Many companies are producing Serial-to-USB adapters that will make some serial devices work with USB-based PowerBook G3 models, including Momentum's uConnect device.
Please share your experiences with "legacy" adapters with other members in the forums.
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