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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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