PowerBook G3 (Pismo)
The PowerBook G3 "Pismo" was the fifth and final revision of the PowerBook G3. It was released in February 2000. It shared the same design as the previous Lombard model, but was faster, and included FireWire ports. Apple's official name for the Pismo is "PowerBook (FireWire)"
Specifications
| Spec | Details |
|---|---|
| Release Date | February 2000 |
| Discontinuation Date | January 2001 |
| Processor | CPU Type: Soldered BGA (on daughtercard) PowerPC G3 @400 or 500MHz |
| RAM | PC100 SDRAM, 2 slots Standard: 64 or 128MB Maximum: 1GB |
| Hard Disk | 2.5" IDE Uses proprietary adapter: Yes Standard: 6, 10, 12, or 20GB |
| Display | 14.1" Active Matrix LCD @1024x768 |
| GPU | ATI Rage Mobility 128 VRAM: 8MB |
| Main Battery | Lithium Ion (50Wh), supports dual batteries via modular bay. |
| PRAM Battery | Proprietary Lithium |
| Power Supply | 24V RCA-style jack - same as the Duo/1400/3400/iBook Clamshell chargers. Any with that plug will work. - Shipping charger is Apple P/N M7332 |
| Disk Drives | Lombard/Pismo Modular Bay with the following available modules: - 24X CD-ROM Drive - DVD-ROM Drive - Secondary Battery - Others? |
| PC Cards | 1x PCMCIA/CardBus Slot (Type II) |
| Networking | - 56k Modem - 10/100 Ethernet - Optional AirPort 802.11b WiFi |
| Other I/O | - 2x USB 1.1 - 2x FireWire 400 - 1x VGA Out - 1x S-Video Out - 1x Line In - 1x Line Out - Infrared |
| Pointing Device | Trackpad |
| Minimum Mac OS | Mac OS 9.0.2 |
| Maximum Mac OS | Mac OS X 10.4.11 |
Resources
 Service Manual |
|---|
Upgrades
SSD Upgrade
See our page on IDE SSDs for more info.
From the options on that page, I'd recommend the IDE to mSATA adapter.
CPU Upgrades
Third-parties manufactured G4 upgrade cards for the Pismo.
Common Faults & Maintenance
Weak Hinge Design
The Pismo's hinges are a weak design, and wear out easily. If you have a Pismo with a floppy hinge, you will need to source replacement hinges, as this is not an issue you can simply repair.