Power Supply

The power supply in your computer is a high-voltage component and should not be opened for any reason, even when the computer is off. If the power supply needs service, contact your Apple-authorized dealer or service provider.

Warning To protect the power supply from damage, make sure the voltage switch on the back of the computer is set correctly before you plug the computer into a power outlet. See Chapter 1 for instructions on setting the voltage switch.

Cleaning Your Equipment

Follow these general rules when cleaning the outside of your computer and its components:

mUse a damp, soft, lint-free cloth to clean the computer’s exterior. Avoid getting moisture in any openings.

mDon’t use aerosol sprays, solvents, or abrasives.

Cleaning the Computer Case

To clean the case, do the following:

1Turn off the computer completely and then disconnect the power plug. (Pull the plug, not the cord.)

2Wipe the surfaces lightly with a clean, soft cloth dampened with water.

Cleaning the Monitor

To clean the screen, put household glass cleaner on a soft cloth and wipe the screen.

Cleaning the Mouse

The mouse contains a small ball that must roll smoothly for the mouse to work properly. You can keep this ball free of dirt and grease by using the mouse on a clean, lint-free surface and cleaning it occasionally.

You need a few cotton swabs and a clean, soft, lint-free cloth.

1Turn off your computer.

2Turn the mouse upside-down and turn the plastic ring on the bottom counterclockwise to disengage it.

See the following illustration.

If the mouse is locked, see the next section, “Locking and Unlocking the Mouse,” for instructions on how to unlock it.

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Apple G3 Minitower manual Cleaning Your Equipment, Power Supply, Cleaning the Computer Case, Cleaning the Monitor

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.