asked on

G4 powerbook won't hold date and time when powered off.

My G4 PoweBook won't keep the date and time settings when it is powered off. Do these have CMOS batteries like PCs? If so, where do I find it? I've been to my local Apple store and they couldn't help. A related issue is that the big battery which keeps it running when not connected to power may be dead, because when I unplug it from external power it dies immediately. Is this the same battery that holds date and time or, as already asked, is there a little CMOS in there somewhere?

Ron Hicks, Arlington VA

ASKER CERTIFIED SOLUTION

slyong

membership

This solution is only available to members.

To access this solution, you must be a member of Experts Exchange.

Start Free Trial

Ronald Hicks

ASKER

Thanks for the lead to the web site. I'll order one now. Now, would you know where in the Powerbook to locate it?

SOLUTION

strung

membership

This solution is only available to members.

To access this solution, you must be a member of Experts Exchange.

Start Free Trial

strung

Also: http://eshop.macsales.com/item/Newer%20Technology/PRAMPBG4TI/

strung

And http://www.ifixit.com/Guide/PDF/55/PowerBook_G4_Al_17_PRAM_Battery_and_USB_Board.pdf

strung

There are actually 17 different Powerbook G4 models. If you don't know which one you have, this might answer your question:

http://support.apple.com/specs/powerbook/

Ronald Hicks

ASKER

This is all really useful info. I'm raising the points and splitting them.

waltermis

I personally have a G4 Powerbook that I use at home. I recently had an issue with the battery not holding a charge. If your main battery is not holding a charge then you will lose the time/clock settings. When you start up again you will receive a message that says something like "Date has been set to .... This may cause your computer to behave erratically." My problem happened because I left my Powerbook plugged in all the time and it messed the battery up. Also, the battery is located on the bottom of your Powerbook with a round silver lock. When the lock is turned the battery should release.

Basically, if the main battery on your computer goes out then yes you will always lose that information unless you stay plugged in or purchase a new battery. Also, I would recommend staying with actual Apple products because I have tried to use "Off Brand" chargers and such and there is a chance that it can cause problems with your computer.