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Using Your Optical Drive

You can install or use software from CDs or DVDs using your optical drive. You can play multimedia on CD discs and music from audio CDs, and write music, documents, and other digital files to CD-R and CD-RW discs. You can also play DVD movies and use most DVD discs. If your computer came with a SuperDrive, you can record information to blank DVD-R (recordable DVD) discs.

Note: If you have older software that comes on floppy disks, contact the software manufacturer to see if the software is available on a CD, or purchase an external USB floppy disk drive for your Power Mac G5 from your Apple Authorized Reseller, an Apple retail store, or online from the Apple Store at www.apple.com/store.

Inserting a Disc

To install or use programs from a CD or DVD:

1With the computer turned on, press the Media Eject () key on your Apple Keyboard to open the drive.

2Place a disc in the tray, with the label facing up, and make sure the disc is lying flat.

3Press the Media Eject () key again or gently push the tray in to close it. When the icon for the disc appears on the screen, the disc is ready to use.

Ejecting a Disc

You can eject a disc by dragging the disc icon to the Trash, or by pressing the Media Eject () key on your Apple Keyboard. You can also eject a disc by holding down the mouse button while restarting your computer.

Recording Information on a CD

Your optical drive can record your favorite music, programs, and files on CD-R and CD-RW discs. Create your own music CDs and play them on any standard audio player. You can also record data files, such as applications, documents, or other digital files, on a recordable CD.

With a CD-R (CD-recordable) disc, you can record information on the disc once. Although you can’t change the recorded information, you may be able to add more information until the disc is full, depending on the application you use. See the documentation that came with your application for specific information about recording on your CD-R disc. It is best to use CD-R discs for recording audio CDs, because your audio CD player may not read CD-RW (CD-rewritable) discs.

With a CD-RW disc, you can save and change information on your CD multiple times. However, some software for recording media files on CDs can record data on the disc only once.

Chapter 2 Using Your Computer

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Apple G5 manual Using Your Optical Drive, Inserting a Disc, Ejecting a Disc, Recording Information on a CD

G5 specifications

The Apple G5, introduced in June 2003, marked a significant advancement in personal computing with its innovative architecture and powerful performance. It was the first desktop computer to feature a 64-bit architecture, which allowed it to process larger amounts of data more efficiently than its 32-bit predecessors. The G5 was equipped with the IBM PowerPC 970 processor, which operated at speeds ranging from 1.6 GHz to 2.7 GHz, making it a formidable contender in the market for both personal and professional use.

One of the standout features of the G5 was its aluminum chassis, which not only gave it a sleek and modern look but also aided in heat dissipation. The innovative design allowed the G5 to maintain lower operating temperatures regardless of the loads it handled. The G5 was famous for its quiet operation, thanks to a temperature-controlled, variable-speed fan system that minimized noise during regular use while still providing adequate cooling during intensive tasks.

In terms of memory, the G5 could support up to 8 GB of RAM, utilizing DDR SDRAM technology that provided enhanced performance in multitasking and complex applications. For graphics, the G5 offered powerful options, including dedicated GPU support from NVIDIA and ATI, enabling users to perform demanding tasks such as video editing and 3D graphics rendering with ease.

The connectivity options on the G5 were well thought out, including built-in USB 2.0 and FireWire 800 ports, which supported high-speed data transfer for external devices. In addition, the G5 featured an Ethernet port for networking capabilities, making it suitable for both home and office environments.

The G5 also ran on Mac OS X, which was optimized to take full advantage of its hardware capabilities. With its Unix-based foundation, Mac OS X provided users with a stable and secure operating environment, complete with a plethora of software applications tailored for creative professionals, including those in graphic design, video editing, and audio production.

Overall, the Apple G5 was a groundbreaking machine that successfully combined advanced technology, stylish design, and robust performance, earning a dedicated following among professionals and enthusiasts alike. Its legacy continues to influence Apple's approach to desktop computing, marking a pivotal moment in the evolution of personal computers.