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Apple's statement from the Apple Technical
Library
TITLE
PowerBook G3 Series: Operating Temperature
TOPIC
The bottom of my PowerBook G3 Series becomes very warm after extended periods of
use. Is there a problem with my PowerBook?
Note: Macintosh PowerBook G3 Series computers should not be confused with Macintosh
PowerBook G3 computers. Though the names are similar, there are significant differences.
To visually identify which type of computer you have, close the display and inspect
the display case. A Macintosh PowerBook G3 has a small, six-color Apple logo on the
display case. A Macintosh PowerBook G3 Series computer has a large Apple logo on
the display case that is not six-colored.
DISCUSSION
There is no problem with the PowerBook. After extended periods of use the bottom
surface can become very warm. You should avoid prolonged physical contact with the
bottom of the computer when it does get warm. Here are a few suggestions for working
with your G3 Series PowerBook to address any concerns you may have with the operating
temperature of your PowerBook.
When using your PowerBook place it on a hard material, such as a desktop or a tray.
This hard surface allows air to flow under the unit to dissipate heat. Using the
unit on a soft material such as a towel or pillow is not recommended as it will not
allow air to flow under the unit.
Turning processor cycling on in the Energy Saver Control Panel greatly reduces the
temperature of the unit. To further reduce the operating temperature of the unit,
select Reduce Processor Speed and select a shorter time setting for Hard Disk Spin
down, also in the Energy Saver Control Panel.
Battery charging also generates some heat. Removing a battery that is charging will
slightly reduce the temperature of the unit. The internal fan in the PowerBook G3
Series will come on within a temperature range that is selected to insure proper
operation of the unit.
The design and operation of the PowerBook G3 Series is within Apple specification.
The PowerBook G3 Series complies with the safety standard for Information Technology
Equipment, IEC 950. This safety standard is sometimes referred to as UL 1950 in USA,
CSA 950 in Canada, EN 60 950 in Europe, and ASNZ3260 in Australian/New Zealand.
Some customers may refer to third party utilities that measure the temperature of
the PowerBook. It's important for the customer to understand that these utilities
are not measuring the external case temperature. The actual case temperature will
be much lower.
With processor and bus speeds achieved in portable computers today often matching
if not exceeding those of desktop systems, increased operating temperatures in portable
computing products will be noticed through out the industry.
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