Technical information

CHAPTER 1
Introduction
16
Features
The PowerBook G3 Series 1999 computer carries forward the architecture of the
previous PowerBook G3 Series with a slimmer case and more powerful
features. This chapter summarizes the features of the new PowerBook G3 Series
computer and addresses issues affecting compatibility with older machines and
software.
Features 1
Here is a list of the features of the PowerBook G3 Series 1999 computer. Each
feature is described in a later chapter, as indicated in the list.
■
Processor: The computer has a PowerPC G3 microprocessor running at a
clock speed of 333 or 400 MHz. For more information, see “G3
Microprocessor” (page 22).
■
Cache: The computer has a backside L2 cache consisting of 512 KB or 1 MB
of fast static RAM. The ratio of the microprocessor and backside cache clock
speeds is 5:2. See “Backside Cache” (page 24).
■
Memory: The computer has two standard SO-DIMM expansion slots for
SDRAM modules. The computer comes with 64 MB of SDRAM installed.
RAM is expandable up to 384 MB total, using presently available memory
devices. See “RAM Expansion Slots” (page 69).
■
Hard disk storage: The computer has a built-in hard disk drive with a
capacity of 4, 6, or 10 GB. For more information and developer guidelines for
alternative hard drives, see “Hard Disk Drive” (page 34).
■
Display: The computer has a 14.1-inch TFT display with XGA resolution
(1024 x 768 pixels). See “Flat Panel Display” (page 48).
■
External monitor: All configurations support dual displays, with a standard
VGA video connector for an external video monitor with resolution up to
1280 by 1024 pixels and an S-video connector for PAL and NTSC video
monitors. See “External Monitors” (page 49).
■
Video RAM: The computer comes with 8 MB of video SDRAM, which
supports millions of colors on the internal display or an external monitor. See
“Video Display Subsystem” (page 26).