CHAPTER 1

Overview of PowerBook G4 17-inch

Peripheral Devices

Included with the computer are a 65 W Apple Portable Power Adapter, an S-video-to-composite cable, and a DVI-to-VGA cable. In addition to these devices, the following peripheral devices are available separately:

The PowerBook G4 Rechargeable Battery is available as an additional or replacement battery.

The 65 W Apple Portable Power Adapter, which comes with the computer, is also available separately. The adapter can fully recharge a completely depleted battery in three hours or less while the computer is shut down or in sleep mode.

The Apple DVI to ADC Adapter, which enables the PowerBook G4 17-inch computer to support Apple’s ADC displays.

The Apple Pro Keyboard, a full-featured USB keyboard.

The Apple Pro Mouse, an optical USB mouse.

The AirPort Extreme Base Station.

A power cable for use on airliners is also available. The airline power cable should have a sense resistor of 24.3 K ohms +/-5% connected between the power plug's shell and ground. For more information, see “Power Controller” (page 23).

System Software

The PowerBook G4 17-inch computer comes with Mac OS X version 10.2. For the latest information, see the references listed in “Mac OS X” (page 60).

Here are a few items of interest about the system software on the PowerBook G4 17-inch computer.

Open Firmware

System software on all current Macintosh models uses a design based on Open Firmware. With this approach, the ROM on the main logic board contains only the Open Firmware code needed to initialize the hardware and load an operating system. The rest of the system code is loaded into RAM from disk or from the network. For more information, see the references listed in “Open Firmware” (page 60).

Computer Identification

Rather than reading the box flag or the model string and then making assumptions about the computer’s features, applications that need to find out the features of the computer should use IORegistry calls to test for the features they require. IORegistry calls are part of the I/O Kit API. For more information, see the references listed at “I/O Kit” (page 60).

14Peripheral Devices

Legacy Document 2003-03-01 © 2003 Apple Computer, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

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Apple 17-INCH manual Peripheral Devices, System Software, Open Firmware, Computer Identification

17-INCH specifications

The Apple 17-inch model has garnered attention for its impressive balance of performance and portability, making it a popular choice among professionals and creative users alike. Boasting a sleek design, it combines cutting-edge technologies with user-friendly features that enhance productivity and entertainment experiences.

At the heart of the 17-inch display is Apple's Retina technology, which provides stunning visual clarity and vibrant colors. With a resolution that surpasses traditional screens, users can expect crisp text and detailed images, making it an ideal choice for graphic designers, video editors, and anyone who values high-quality visuals. The large screen size creates an immersive experience, especially useful for multitasking, viewing spreadsheets side by side, or editing documents side by side.

Powered by Appleā€™s latest custom silicon, the 17-inch model delivers remarkable performance. The optimizations in the chip architecture enhance not only processing speeds but also energy efficiency, allowing users to accomplish more without compromising battery life. These advancements in chip technology together with integrated graphics offer smooth performance during intensive tasks such as rendering high-definition graphics or playing demanding games.

The laptop also comes equipped with a robust battery system designed to keep users productive for extended periods. Users can expect several hours of usage on a single charge, ensuring that they can work or enjoy media without the constant need to recharge. Furthermore, fast-charging capabilities minimize downtime, making it convenient for on-the-go professionals.

In terms of connectivity, the 17-inch model offers multiple Thunderbolt and USB-C ports, allowing for quick data transfer and connecting a variety of external devices. This versatility is essential for professionals who may need to hook up to external monitors or utilize peripherals for enhanced functionality.

The built-in audio system features high-fidelity speakers, delivering an outstanding audio experience for music, movies, and video conferencing. The integration of advanced microphones further enhances clarity during calls, making communication seamless.

Overall, the Apple 17-inch laptop stands out as a powerful tool designed for those who demand performance, quality, and flexibility in their devices. With its blend of stunning visuals, powerful processing capabilities, and user-centric features, it remains a strong contender in the market for those seeking a reliable and stylish computing solution.