What’s Next?

For more information about working with your computer’s hardware, refer to the following chapters in this manual.

mTo learn more about the basics of your computer’s hardware, such as how to use your built-in CD-ROM and floppy disk drives, how to connect external devices such as a printer, and how to attach a security device to protect against theft, go to Chapter 2.

mTo learn how to connect your computer to a computer network, see Chapter 2.

mTo learn how to install expansion cards or add memory to your computer, see Chapter 3. If you want to turn off your computer for now, go to the next section, “Turning the Computer Off.”

Turning the Computer Off

To turn your computer off, follow these instructions:

1Press the Power key (π) on your keyboard.

The following dialog box appears on the screen:

2Press the Return key on the keyboard (or click the Shut Down button in the dialog box).

If any applications are still open, a message asks if you want to save your work before the computer shuts down.

To turn the computer on again, just press the Power key on the keyboard.

Note: You can also turn off the computer by choosing Shut Down from the Special menu.

Important Do not use the power button on the front of the computer to turn the computer off unless there is a problem that prevents it from being turned off with the Power key or the Shut Down command. ( You could lose unsaved work.) To make sure your work is saved, use the Power key.

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Apple G3 Minitower manual What’s Next?, Turning the Computer Off
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G3 Minitower specifications

The Apple G3 Minitower, released in 1997, marked a significant evolution in Apple’s desktop computer lineup. As part of the G3 series, it was geared towards both professional users and creative enthusiasts, showcasing powerful performance in a compact form factor. This machine was notable for its distinctive design, featuring a sleek, gray plastic enclosure that was both stylish and practical.

At the heart of the G3 Minitower was the innovative G3 processor, which featured a 250 MHz initial speed, and eventually models offered up to 500 MHz. The G3 architecture utilized a combination of RISC (Reduced Instruction Set Computing) technology and sophisticated software optimizations, allowing for increased performance, especially when handling multimedia applications. The system's performance was complemented by the inclusion of the latest technologies at the time, such as PCI expansion slots, enabling users to add graphics cards and other peripherals to enhance functionality.

The standard configuration came with 32 MB of RAM, which was expandable to a maximum of 1 GB. This capacity made it suitable for demanding tasks such as graphic design and video editing, common uses for the target market. Storage options were generous as well, with the G3 Minitower typically coming with a 4 GB hard drive, upgradeable to larger capacities. This component played a vital role in the machine's ability to efficiently store and manage large files associated with multimedia projects.

In terms of connectivity, the G3 Minitower included USB ports, which were becoming increasingly popular in the late 1990s, as well as a built-in modem and Ethernet port for internet connectivity. The Minitower also supported Apple's innovative FireWire technology, allowing for faster data transfer rates, which was especially advantageous for connecting external devices like digital cameras and external hard drives.

The G3 Minitower ran on the Mac OS 8 operating system, giving users access to a user-friendly, robust interface that was ideal for both new and experienced users. With support for a wide range of software applications, it appealed to educators, designers, and developers alike.

Overall, the Apple G3 Minitower represented a significant leap in desktop computing for Apple and firmly established the G3 architecture as a cornerstone of their product offerings for years to come. Its powerful performance, expandability, and design made it a beloved choice among Mac enthusiasts of the era, embodying the spirit of innovation that Apple was known for.
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