Apple Powerbook G4 Fw800 Users Manual

FW800 to the manual 52765b05-7272-4249-8eb8-791010878c93

: Apple Apple-Powerbook-G4-Fw800-Users-Manual-418104 apple-powerbook-g4-fw800-users-manual-418104 apple pdf

Open the PDF directly: View PDF .
Page Count: 152

Download
Open PDF In Browser	View PDF

 Service Source

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800)
16 September 2003

© 2003 Apple Computer, Inc. All rights reserved.

 Service Source

Take Apart
PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800)

© 2003 Apple Computer, Inc. All rights reserved.

General Information

Overview
Some key features that distinguish this computer from earlier PowerBook models include:
• New aluminum alloy enclosure
• Built-in Bluetooth
• Built-in FireWire 800 port
• Supports USB 2.0
• Uses double-data rate (DDR) memory
• Optional AirPort Extreme card
• Optional fiber optic backlit keyboard with ambient light sensors
• New battery pack

General Information

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart - 1

New Procedures
If you are familiar with taking apart notebook computers, there are a few critical
differences:
• Important: The top case removal has two critical removal steps:
– A hidden latch behind the optical drive felt must be disengaged with a tool before
lifting off the top case.
– There are two flex cables (keyboard and multifunction trackpad) from the top case
to the logic board. Carefully lift the top case to avoid pulling these connectors off
the main logic board.
• The keyboard is secured with screws accessible from under the top case.
• Memory cards are easily accessible from the bottom of the computer. Important: To
avoid applying too much pressure onto the memory slot locking tabs, spread the tabs
apart when installing memory cards.
• The AirPort Extreme card is easily installed or replaced through a door in the main
battery compartment.
• The quantity and types of screws differ from earlier models.

Important Note
• Memory from the previous 15-inch PowerBook is not compatible with this computer.

Tools
The following tools are recommended for the take apart procedures.
• ESD wrist strap and mat
• Soft cloth
• #0 Phillips screwdriver (magnetized)
• #1 Phillips screwdriver (magnetized)
• 4 mm socket wrench
• 5 mm socket wrench
• 1.5 mm Hex key (or Torx T6)
• Needlenose pliers
• Torx T8 screwdriver
• Thermal pad kit (076-1055)
• EMI gaskets kit (076-1057)
• Alcohol pads
• Dental pick (with up to ninety-degree bend)
• Black stick (nylon probe tool 922-5065) (or other nonconductive nylon or plastic flatblade tool)
• Multi-compartment screw tray (such as a plastic ice cube tray)
• Double-stick tape
• Kapton® tape (922-1731)
• Voltmeter (for troubleshooting)
• Small low-power magnet (for troubleshooting)
• Apple Pro keyboard and mouse (for troubleshooting)
2 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart

General Information

Serial Number Location
The serial number is located in the battery bay.

General Information

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart - 3

Foot

Tools
This procedure requires the following tools:
• Foot kit
• Tweezers or needlenose pliers
• Soft cloth

Preliminary Step
Before you begin, identify the foot that needs replacement. Check the bottom case of the
computer and compare it with the images in this table:

Plug Area on Bottom Case

Matching Foot

Action

Missing plug

Not available for
replacement

Replace the bottom
case, or send to Apple
Repair Center.

Case plug

Case foot

Continue with the
procedure, matching
the foot to the plug on
the bottom case.

4 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart

Foot

Procedure
Warning: The glue used in this procedure can bond instantly to skin. Do not touch the
glue. In the event of contact, review the safety instructions at the end of this document. For
additional information, refer to the glue manufacturer:
Elmer's Products, Inc.
Columbus, OH. 43215-3799
www.krazyglue.com
1. Place the computer upside down on a clean, lint-free cloth or other nonabrasive
surface.
2. Select a foot from the kit. (Refer to the images shown in the table.) Do not use a foot
that does not match.
3. Make sure the plug area on the bottom case is clean. If any portion of the soft rubber
foot remains, remove it so that only the hard plastic plug is visible (as shown below).
Important: Notice the inner ring of the plug. When positioning the foot, make sure
the textured plane of the rubber foot fits into the compatible ring in the plug. This
ensures a balanced and level fitting.

Foot

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart - 5

4. Warning: GLUE IS AN EYE AND SKIN IRRITANT. BONDS SKIN INSTANTLY. Do not
touch the glue at any time. Before opening the glue, review the safety instructions at
the end of this document.
Important: The glue tube included in the kit is sealed until first use. Do not break the
seal until you are ready to use the glue. To break the seal, hold the tube upright and
away from you. Place the hollow nozzle cap on the tube and tighten it all the way
down. The tube is then ready to dispense the glue through the nozzle cap.

5. Apply one drop of glue to the plug on the bottom case. Do not spread the glue.
6. Using tweezers or needlenose pliers, carefully position the new foot so its textured
surface fits into the inner ring of the plug.
7. Using the end of the tweezers or pliers—not your finger—lightly press and hold the
foot in place for 30 seconds.

8. Before turning over the computer, allow the glue to set for at least 15 minutes.
9. Discard the tube of glue.
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS: GLUE IS AN EYE AND SKIN IRRITANT. BONDS SKIN
INSTANTLY. Contains ethyl cyanoacrylate. Avoid contact with skin and eyes. If eye or
mouth contact occurs, hold eyelid or mouth open and rinse thoroughly but gently with
water only for 15 minutes and GET MEDICAL ATTENTION. Liquid glue will sting eye
temporarily. Solidified glue may irritate eye like a grain of sand and should be treated by an
eye doctor. If skin bonding occurs, soak in acetone-based nail polish remover or warm
soapy water and carefully peel or roll skin apart (do not pull). Contact through clothing may
cause skin burn. If spilled on clothing, flush with cold water. Avoid prolonged breathing of
vapors. Use with adequate ventilation. KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN.

6 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart

Foot

Battery

Tools
This procedure requires the following tools:
• Soft cloth
• Coin

Part Location

Preliminary Steps
Warning: Always shut down the computer before opening it to avoid damaging its
internal components or causing injury. After you shut down the computer, the
internal components can be very hot. Let the computer cool down before
continuing.

Battery

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart - 7

Procedure
Warning: If the computer has been recently operating, allow it to cool down before
performing this procedure.
1. Shut down the computer.
2. Disconnect the power cord and any other cables connected to the computer.
3. Place the computer face down on a soft cloth.
4. Insert a coin in the battery lock slot and turn it one quarter turn clockwise. The battery
should raise up slightly. Lift the battery out of the battery bay.

8 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart

Battery

Memory Door and
Memory Cards

Tools
This procedure requires the following tools:
• Soft cloth
• #0 Phillips screwdriver

Part Location

Preliminary Steps
Before you begin, remove the battery.

Memory Door and Memory Cards

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart - 9

Procedure
Warning: If the computer has been recently operating, allow it to cool down before
performing this procedure.
1. Place the computer face down on a soft cloth.
2. Remove the four screws from the memory door then remove the door.

Note: If only one memory card is installed, the factory installs it in the bottom memory slot.
Note: Memory must be removed from the top slot before removing from the bottom slot.

10 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart

Memory Door and Memory Cards

3. To remove memory cards, carefully spread the two locking tabs for the slot (top or
bottom) away from the card on both sides and allow the card to pop up slightly.

4. Pull the card straight back and out of the memory slot.

Memory Door and Memory Cards

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart - 11

Replacement Procedure
Notes:
• The top and bottom memory cards are inserted at different angles.
• If installing two cards, install into the bottom slot first.
• Align the notch in the memory card with the tooth in the slot before inserting.
1. To install a memory card into the bottom slot, insert the card at a low angle behind the
locking tabs of the top slot.

12 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart

Memory Door and Memory Cards

2. Slide the card forward to the lower slot. Firmly push the card straight into the slot until
it is fully and securely seated along its length.
Note: If the back of the card drops down before it is fully seated, raise it up enough to
push it fully into the slot.

3. Carefully spread the two locking tabs for the bottom slot away from the card on both
sides while pushing the card straight down until the tabs click onto both sides of the
card, locking it into place.

Memory Door and Memory Cards

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart - 13

4. If installing a memory card in the top slot, follow the same procedures as the bottom
slot except insert the card at a 30-degree angle, above the locking tabs.

5. Push the card in until it is firmly seated.
6. As with the bottom slot, spread the locking tabs for the top slot while pushing the card
straight down until it locks into place.

14 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart

Memory Door and Memory Cards

7. Cards should be flat and secure on both sides.

8. Install the memory door.
9. Replace the battery.
10. Use Apple System Profiler to verify that the memory is recognized. (Choose the menu
bar Apple logo () > About This Mac, click More Info..., select the System Profile tab,
open the Memory Overview.)

Memory Door and Memory Cards

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart - 15

AirPort Extreme Card

Tools
This procedure requires the following tools:
• Black stick (or other nonconductive nylon or plastic flat-blade tool)

Part Location

Preliminary Steps
Before you begin, remove the battery.

16 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart

AirPort Extreme Card

Procedure
1. Pull outward on the slot to open the AirPort Extreme Card door.

2. Use a black stick to pull out the card’s clear plastic pull tab, tucked underneath.

AirPort Extreme Card

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart - 17

3. Gently disconnect the AirPort Extreme antenna cable.

4. Use the pull tab to pull out the card.

18 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart

AirPort Extreme Card

5. Slide the replacement AirPort Extreme Card into the slot, as shown.

6. Push the card into the slot until fully seated.

AirPort Extreme Card

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart - 19

7. Connect the end of the antenna cable to the card.

8. Loop the clear plastic tab down around the antenna cable and tuck it into the slot
under the card so that it secures the cable.

20 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart

AirPort Extreme Card

9. Close the AirPort door, reassemble and test the computer.

AirPort Extreme Card

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart - 21

Top Case

Tools
This procedure requires the following tools:
• #0 Phillips screwdriver (magnetized)
• 1.5 mm Hex key (or Torx T6)
• Dental pick (with up to a ninety-degree bend)
• Black stick (or other nonconductive nylon or plastic flat-blade tool)
• Soft cloth
• Multi-compartment screw tray

Part Location

22 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart

Top Case

Preliminary Steps
Before you begin, remove the following:
• Battery
• Memory door

Procedure
Note: This procedure removes the top case and keyboard assembly. The keyboard is
removable only after removing the top case.
1. Place the computer face down on a soft cloth.
2. Remove the two screws inside the battery bay.
3. Remove the two screws from the memory bay.
4. Remove the four screws along the back edge.

Top Case

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart - 23

5. With the display open, rest the computer on one side. Remove the three screws.

6. Turn over the computer and remove the three screws on the other side.

24 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart

Top Case

7. Open the computer slightly and rest it with the back facing up. Remove the two top
screws along the back.
Note: Do not remove the bottom screws.

8. Lay the computer right side up and open the display slightly past 90-degrees.
9. Remove the two hex screws at the back corners of the top case (a Torx T6 can also
be used).

Top Case

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart - 25

10. Use a black stick along the seam of the top and bottom case to help release the top
case at the back sides (gently twisting the black stick may help).

26 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart

Top Case

11. Important: There is an hidden clip that secures the front of the top case. This clip
must be released before the top case can be removed. The clip can be seen behind
the optical drive felt, on the left side. Also, there are small slits in the top felt. The clip is
behind the first slit from the left.
Use a black stick along the seam of the top and bottom case to add slight upward
pressure so that the top case will pop up when the clip is released. Then insert a
dental pick behind the clip and pull out slightly to release the clip and the top case.

Top Case

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart - 27

12. With the top case released from the bottom case and lifted slightly so that it does not
touch the bottom case, lift the front of the top case, pivoting along the back, to rest the
top case against the display. Do not strain the cables connected to the logic board.
Important: Adjust the display so that there is no strain on the top case cables and so
the top case will not fall forward.

28 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart

Top Case

13. Disconnect the trackpad flex cable.
14. Carefully disconnect the keyboard flex cable. Use a non-marring flat-blade tool to slide
the locking bar back slightly on both sides.
Important: The keyboard flex cable is a Zero insertion force (ZIF) connector. The
locking bar on the connector is extremely fragile and is not intended to separate from
the connector. When releasing the bar, use extreme care and a restrained light
pressure to move the bar only slightly.
Warning: If the locking bar breaks, you will need to replace the logic board.

Replacement Notes:
Make sure the locking bar is released, then slide the end of the flex cable all the way
into the connector, above the locking bar. Hold the cable in place, then slide the
locking bar into the connector on both sides to secure.
Important: Verify that the cable is straight. Use the markings on the cable as guides.
Warning: If the flex cable is inserted crooked, some signals may not be
connected or signals may short together.
Note: If a cable is not securing properly, verify that it is inserted on the correct side of
the locking bar.
15. Lift off the top case.

Top Case

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart - 29

Replacement Procedure
Note: If replacing the top case, remove the keyboard and transfer it to the replacement top
case.
1. Visually check to verify that all cables are connected and routed correctly with nothing
raised up or incorrectly over a component.
2. Check perimeter wiring, where shown, to verify that it will not be caught or pinched by
the top case during replacement.

3. Verify that the LVDS cable is secured with Kapton tape and lays flat.

30 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart

Top Case

4. On the top case, check cable connections and routing.
Note: The top case below has the wires and connector for the fiber optics for the
optional backlit keyboard (right side). This will not be present on some configurations.

5. Check that the perimeter metal tabs are not bent.
Note: The metal quickly fatigues and can break off easily. Be extremely careful to
gently straighten tabs, if needed.

Top Case

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart - 31

6. Lay the top case against the open display, as shown.

7. Connect the flex cables from the top case to the logic board.
8. Lift the top case slightly and rotate it down over the bottom case (verify that the cables
are folding properly) and align the corners.
9. Start at the right corner and guide the top case onto the bottom case. Use a black
stick to carefully pull or push tabs slightly, if needed.
Note: Some side screws have a flexible screw boss. If they block a tab on the top
case from seating, use the pointed end of a black stick through the screw hole to
push on the boss slightly.
Important: The tabs are fragile. Do not apply too much pressure or bend them.
Important: The top case should lay flat along the sides and top, if not, make sure
that cables and components are not interfering.

32 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart

Top Case

Important: Screw order is vital for the proper attachment of the top case.
10. Reinstall the side screws in the order shown, below.
Replacement Note: Do NOT insert side screws into the DVI port screw holes. The
screws can jam in the holes, requiring removing the logic board to remove.

Top Case

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart - 33

11. Close the computer, flip it over, and install the four back screws.
12. Install the two screws in the memory bay.
13. Install the memory door and four screws.
14. Install the two screw in the battery bay.

15. Replace the battery.
16. Testing the computer should include powering on, checking the keyboard and
trackpad function.
If the computer has the optional keyboard backlight feature, operate the computer in
a darkened room to check for keyboard backlight function.

34 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart

Top Case

Keyboard

Tools
This procedure requires the following tools:
• #0 Phillips screwdriver
• Black stick (or other nonconductive nylon or plastic flat-blade tool)

Part Location

Preliminary Steps
Before you begin, remove the following:
• Battery
• Top case

Keyboard

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart - 35

Procedure
Note: There are two different keyboards and top cases used with this computer,
depending upon the configuration, either backlit or non-backlit.
Important: Verify that the correct replacement keyboard is ordered, and/or top case if
replacing. The keyboards are not interchangeable, and damage could result.
The top case for the backlit keyboard has the fiber optics and connector (right side). The
keyboard for the backlit top case has icons on the F8 to F10 keys for the backlighting
feature.

The top case for the non-backlit keyboard does not have the fiber optics and connector.
The keyboard for the non-backlit top case does not have icons on the F8 to F10 keys.

36 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart

Keyboard

1. Turn the top case over and carefully remove the black insulator film. If new film was
not provided with the replacement part, reserve the film for reinstallation.
Important: If the computer has the fiber optics for the optional backlit keyboard, do
not remove the black insulator around the optics and cables.

Important: If the computer has the fiber optics for the optional backlit keyboard, do
not remove the black insulator around the optics and cables.

Keyboard

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart - 37

2. Gently pull up on the keyboard flex cable to release the adhesive at its base.

3. Remove the thirteen screws.
Note: The non-backlit top case shown.

38 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart

Keyboard

4. Use the pointed end of a black stick and push through the screw hole at the top left
side until the keyboard begins to separate from the top case. Work your way along
through successive screw holes until a black stick can be inserted under the keyboard
from the top.
Important: To avoid damaging the screw boss threads, do not use a metal tool.

Keyboard

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart - 39

5. Carefully lift up the keyboard and guide out its flex cable (shown below).
Important: Be careful not to strain or tear the keyboard flex cable.

6. If adhesive residue is left by the keyboard in the keyboard bay, and on the fiber optics
(if present), carefully rub it off.

40 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart

Keyboard

Replacement Procedure
1. To install the keyboard or replacement keyboard, insert its flex cable through the slot in
the top case and rest the bottom of the keyboard evenly along the bottom edge of the
keyboard bay.
2. Remove any protective cover from adhesive strips on the keyboard. While keeping the
bottom of the keyboard flush against the bottom of the keyboard bay, rotate the
keyboard into place so that the screw bosses fit into the boss holes.

3. Use a black stick to guide the sides of the keyboard into the keyboard well.

Keyboard

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart - 41

4. Install the keyboard screws in the order shown.

5. Install new or reinstall the insulator film. Remove any protective cover from the
adhesive and fit the small round hole in the film over the raised screw boss (one on
each side) to start the alignment. Avoid wrinkles or bulges.
On the power button side, run your finger along the film where it folds over the edge
of the keyboard bay, to help secure the adhesive and prevent light leakage.
Important: The film must be installed and in the same location to protect against
contact and electrical shorting in certain areas and to allow contact with the EMI
spring on the logic board.

42 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart

Keyboard

6. To secure the keyboard flex cable, remove any protective cover on the adhesive at the
base of the cable. Pull the cable up straight and then forward to lay it flat across the
the keyboard bay. Run your finger along the base of the flex cable to secure the
adhesive.

7. Reassemble the computer.
8. Testing the computer should include powering on, checking the keyboard and
trackpad function.
If the computer has the optional keyboard backlight feature, operate the computer in
a darkened room to check for keyboard backlight function, and light leakage around
the perimeter of the keyboard, speaker grill openings and side ports.

Keyboard

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart - 43

Backup Battery

Tools
This procedure requires the following tools:
• Black stick (or other nonconductive nylon or plastic flat-blade tool)

Part Location

Preliminary Steps
Before you begin, remove the following:
• Battery
• Top case

44 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart

Backup Battery

Procedure
1. Use a black stick to release the adhesive holding the backup battery to the optical
drive then disconnect the backup battery cable.
Note: The backup battery is held down by double-backed tape adhesive on its cover.

Backup Battery

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart - 45

Replacement Procedure
1. Connect the backup battery cable to the backup battery and to the logic board.
2. Remove any protective adhesive cover on the replacement backup battery.
3. Notice the curve of the metal bracket along the right edge of the optical drive. Position
the backup battery precisely as shown.
Important: If the backup battery is not positioned correctly, sharp edges on the top
case over the backup battery may cause damage.

46 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart

Backup Battery

4. Press where shown to secure the backup battery to the optical drive.

5. Reassemble the computer.
6. Testing the computer should include plugging in the power adapter and letting the
backup battery charge for half an hour. Then power on the computer and disconnect
the power adapter, set the system clock, put the computer to sleep, remove the main
battery for five seconds and reinstall. The date and time should not reset.
Also, insert an optical disc to verify that the optical drive functions properly.

Backup Battery

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart - 47

Optical Drive

Tools
This procedure requires the following tools:
• #0 Phillips screwdriver (magnetized)
• Thin double-back tape (if the backup battery will not re-stick securely)
• Black stick (or other nonconductive nylon or plastic flat-blade tool)

Part Location

Preliminary Steps
Before you begin, remove the following:
• Battery
• Top case
• Backup battery

48 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart

Optical Drive

Procedure
1. Remove the two screws from the drive hold-down bracket.

2. Lift out the bracket.

Optical Drive

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart - 49

3. Use a black stick, or the connector pull tab if present, to carefully loosen and
disconnect the optical drive flex cable connector.

4. Lift up on the optical drive at its rear and remove.

50 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart

Optical Drive

5. Transfer the flex cable, side brackets and screws to the replacement optical drive.

6. To install the replacement optical drive, insert the front of the drive under any
overhang at the front of the computer above the optical drive slot, then lower the back
of the drive into place.
Important: Verify that the front of the drive does not catch above any bracket or
overhang at the front of the optical drive bay.

Optical Drive

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart - 51

7. Verify that both sides of the drive are fully seated.
8. Connect the optical drive flex cable connector to the logic board.
9. Reassemble the computer.
10. Testing the computer should include powering on, inserting an optical disc and
ejecting it to make sure the drive is aligned with the opening and functioning properly.
Test the backup battery by plugging in the power adapter and letting the backup
battery charge for half an hour. Then power on the computer and disconnect the
power adapter, set the system clock, put the computer to sleep, remove the main
battery for five seconds and reinstall. The date and time should not reset.

52 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart

Optical Drive

Hard Drive

Tools
This procedure requires the following tools:
• #0 Phillips screwdriver (magnetized)
• Black stick (or other nonconductive nylon or plastic flat-blade tool)

Part Location

Preliminary Steps
Before you begin, remove the following:
• Battery
• Top case

Hard Drive

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart - 53

Procedure
1. Remove the two screws from the drive hold-down bracket.

2. Lift out the bracket.

54 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart

Hard Drive

3. Use a black stick, or the connector pull tab if present, to carefully loosen and
disconnect the hard drive flex cable connector.
4. Lift up on the right side of the hard drive to remove.

Hard Drive

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart - 55

5. Transfer the shield, side screws, rubber shockpads and the flex cable to the
replacement hard drive.

Note: If replacing the hard drive flex cable, verify that the EMI pad is installed on the
cable, or install it if supplied, or transfer from the replaced cable.
6. Install the replacement hard drive and reassemble the computer.
7. Testing the computer should include powering on, checking that the hard drive is
recognized, checking for sound from the speakers and that the modem works.

56 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart

Hard Drive

Modem

Tools
This procedure requires the following tools:
• #0 Phillips screwdriver (magnetized)
• Black stick (or other nonconductive nylon or plastic flat-blade tool)

Part Location

Preliminary Steps
Before you begin, remove the following:
• Battery
• Top case
• Hard drive

Modem

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart - 57

Procedure
1. Remove the two screws.

2. Carefully lift the modem to disconnect the flex cable connected underneath.

58 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart

Modem

3. Lift the modem up slightly and disconnect the RJ-11 cable connector.

Replacement Procedure
1. Connect the RJ-11 cable to the modem.
2. Verify that the modem RJ-11 cable is routed as shown.

Modem

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart - 59

3. Position the modem over the pin and align the screw holes, then press down over the
flex connector location to connect the cable.
Note: If the modem will not seat on the flex connector, remove the optical drive to
gain access to the cable.
4. Check that the modem cable is still secured to the modem.

5. Reassemble and test the modem. Check the battery latch to make sure nothing is
interfering with its rotation.

60 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart

Modem

Bluetooth

Tools
This procedure requires the following tools:
• Black stick (or other nonconductive nylon or plastic flat-blade tool)

Part Location

Preliminary Steps
Before you begin, remove the following:
• Battery
• Top case
Note: Replacing the Bluetooth cable requires removing the Sound/DC-in board.

Bluetooth

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart - 61

Procedure
1. Guide the Bluetooth 4-pin connector and antenna cables from under the bottom case
hardware.
2. Lift up the Bluetooth board.

3. Disconnect the Bluetooth antenna cable.
4. Use a black stick to disconnect the 4-pin connector.

62 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart

Bluetooth

5. If replacing the Bluetooth cable, remove the cable through the space at the PC card
cage button guide.

6. Install the replacement Bluetooth board.
Note: Use Kapton tape if needed to secure the shield around the board.

Bluetooth

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart - 63

7. Route cables under the case hardware in the channel as shown, and verify that the
antenna cable is seated in the cable clips on the speaker assembly.
Note: The Bluetooth antenna cable secures with the modem cable in the channels
along the left speaker. If re-securing, insert the Bluetooth antenna wire into the
channel first, then the modem wire.

Important: Check that cables are not routed between screw bosses or over case
edge hardware.

8. Reassemble and test the computer. Testing should include using Bluetooth to connect
to another computer.

64 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart

Bluetooth

Left Blower

Tools
This procedure requires the following tools:
• #1 Phillips screwdriver (magnetized)
• Black stick (or other nonconductive nylon or plastic flat-blade tool)

Part Location

Preliminary Steps
Before you begin, remove the following:
• Battery
• Top case
Note: Replacing the right blower requires removing the logic board.

Left Blower

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart - 65

Procedure
1. Disconnect the cables shown below.

2. Remove four screws.

66 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart

Left Blower

3. Lift out the blower.
4. Install replacement blower. Reassemble and test computer.
Replacement Note: Make sure to reseal the tape strip along the edge of the blower.

Left Blower

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart - 67

Ambient Light Sensor Boards

Tools
This procedure requires the following tools:
• #0 Phillips screwdriver
• Torx T8 screwdriver
• Black stick (or other nonconductive nylon or plastic flat-blade tool)

Part Location
Computers with the backlit keyboard configuration, only, have a left and a right ambient
light sensor installed.

Preliminary Steps
Before you begin, remove the following:
• Battery
• Top case

68 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart

Ambient Light Sensor Boards

Procedure
1. To remove the left ambient light sensor board, remove the two screws, and disconnect
the connector from the logic board.

Ambient Light Sensor Boards

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart - 69

2. To remove the right ambient light sensor, remove the two screws, then lift up on the
ambient light sensor board to disconnect it from the logic board (the connector is on
the bottom of the board).
Note: The sensor assembly consists of two pieces: the sensor board and a lens
cover.

Replacement Note: Assemble the replacement sensor board and lens cover before
installation.

70 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart

Ambient Light Sensor Boards

3. Press, where shown here, to secure the right ambient light sensor board connector to
the logic board.

4. Reassemble and test the computer.

Ambient Light Sensor Boards

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart - 71

Logic Board

Tools
This procedure requires the following tools:
• #1 Phillips screwdriver (magnetized)
• Thermal Pad Kit (076-1055), if not ordering a replacement logic board or heatsink
• EMI Gasket Kit (076-1057)
• Alcohol pads
• Black stick (or other nonconductive nylon or plastic flat-blade tool)
Note: To organize the screws you remove from the computer, use a tray with divided
compartments (such as a plastic ice cube tray).

Part Location

72 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart

Logic Board

Preliminary Steps
Before you begin, run the computer until warm (if possible) to help soften the thermal
material on the logic board, then shut it down and remove the following:
• Battery
• Top case
• Right ambient light sensor board and lens cover, if present
Note: It may be helpful to remove the optical drive and hard drive to reduce the number of
cables to control when replacing the logic board, if desired.

Procedure
Warning: Flexing of the logic board can break solder joints to parts. To prevent
damage to the board, guard against flexing.
1. Disconnect the cables shown.

Logic Board

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart - 73

2. Remove the two screws and move the right speaker and wire down away from the
logic board.

3. Remove the screws shown.
Note: If a right ambient light sensor board was removed, that procedure already
removed the upper right logic board screw.

74 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart

Logic Board

4. Important: Thermal material on the bottom side of the board, between the board and
heatsink, may make it difficult for the board to release.
Verify that all screws have been removed, then use a black stick to apply light, slow,
upward pressure under the left side of the logic board until the it releases from the
heatsink. Do not pry. Do not flex the board.

5. After the board releases, lift the left side slightly and remove the two connectors.

Logic Board

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart - 75

6. Carefully lift the left side of the board and pivot along the ports side. Support the board
along its sides as it lifts to avoid flexing.
Warning: Do NOT flex the board. Give special attention at the narrow neck of
the blower cutout.
7. Carefully pull the port end of the board out of the port openings.
Note: If the DVI port catches underneath, maneuver the board until it releases.

76 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart

Logic Board

Warning: To avoid flexing the logic board, hold the board vertically along the wide
sides. Do not hold the board by the ends or by the narrow neck at the blower cutout,
or horizontally, as the board’s weight can cause excessive flex.

Logic Board

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart - 77

Replacement Procedure
1. Verify that the two rubber blocks, below, are installed on the replacement logic board.

2. Install new EMI gaskets (076-1057) onto the replacement logic board, where shown
below.

78 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart

Logic Board

3. Check the two thermal pads on the heatsink, shown below. If damaged, use a black
stick to remove the material then clean the surface vigorously with an alcohol pad to
completely remove all of the original thermal material.

Warning: Whenever the logic board is separated from the heatsink, you must
remove and install new thermal material to the heatsink at the CPU location. Failure
to do so can cause the computer to overheat and be damaged.
4. Use a black stick to remove the original thermal material, shown below, then clean the
surface vigorously with an alcohol pad to completely remove all of the material.

Logic Board

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart - 79

5. Install new thermal pads onto the heatsink where removed, as shown below.
Center each pad over the location that corresponds to the chip on the logic board and
press into place, avoiding air pockets. Remove protective backing, if present.
Note: The two larger pads are interchangeable.
Important: Avoid unnecessary contact with thermal pads as dirt and body oils
reduce the pad's conductivity.

80 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart

Logic Board

6. If the logic board was removed to facilitate another procedure and will be reinstalled,
remove all thermal material from the CPU chip on the bottom of the logic board with a
black stick, as shown below.
Important: Use extreme care not to damage the chip or logic board components.

7. To replace the logic board, guide the port side into the port openings on the bottom
case.
Note: Use care not to catch cables under the board as it is lowered into place.

Logic Board

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart - 81

8. Attach the screws in the order shown.
Note: If a right ambient light sensor will be installed, the upper right screw (10) will be
installed during that procedure.

9. Reassemble and test all ports, components and functions of the computer.
Note: After installing new thermal material, if you must briefly re-separate the logic board
from the heatsink, it is OK to retain the same, new thermal material, as long as they are
not handled excessively.

82 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart

Logic Board

Right Blower

Tools
This procedure requires the following tools:
• #1 Phillips screwdriver (magnetized)
• Black stick (or other nonconductive nylon or plastic flat-blade tool)

Part Location

Preliminary Steps
Before you begin, remove the following:
• Battery
• Top case
• Logic board

Right Blower

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart - 83

Procedure
1. Remove the three screws, then lift off the blower.

2. Install the replacement right blower and reseal tape strip (left blower shown).

3. Reassemble the computer and test all ports, components and functions.

84 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart

Right Blower

Right USB Board

Tools
This procedure requires the following tools:
• #1 Phillips screwdriver (magnetized)
• Black stick (or other nonconductive nylon or plastic flat-blade tool)

Part Location

Preliminary Steps
Before you begin, remove the following:
• Battery
• Top case
• Optical drive
• Logic board

Right USB Board

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart - 85

Procedure
1. Remove the two screws and guide the board out.

2. Disconnect the flex cable.

86 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart

Right USB Board

3. If the EMI gasket is not installed on the replacement board, transfer the gasket from
the old board, or install a new gasket, as shown.

4. Install the replacement right USB board and reassemble the computer.
5. Test all ports, components and functions of the computer.

Right USB Board

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart - 87

Speakers

Tools
This procedure requires the following tools:
• #0 Phillips screwdriver (magnetized)
• #1 Phillips screwdriver (magnetized)
• 4 mm socket wrench
• Black stick (or other nonconductive nylon or plastic flat-blade tool)

Part Location

Preliminary Steps
Before you begin, remove the following:
• Battery
• Logic board
• Left ambient light sensor board, if present

88 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart

Speakers

Procedure
Note: Lift up any Kapton tape as necessary and reserve for replacement.
1. Remove the two screws and remove the small board (if a left ambient light sensor
board was not removed in the preliminary steps).

2. Carefully lift wires out of routing channels on the left speaker.

Speakers

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart - 89

3. Remove the screw and nut, then carefully lift out the speaker assembly.
4. Disconnect the speaker cable from the Sound/DC-in board.

5. Install the replacement speakers, and reassemble the computer.
Replacement Note: Needlenose pliers may be helpful when reinstalling the nut.

6. Testing the computer should include using the Sound system-preference pane to test
the left and right speakers.
90 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart

Speakers

PC Card Cage

Tools
This procedure requires the following tools:
• #0 Phillips screwdriver (magnetized)
• Black stick (or other nonconductive nylon or plastic flat-blade tool)

Part Location

Preliminary Steps
Before you begin, remove the following:
• Battery
• Speakers

PC Card Cage

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart - 91

Procedure
1. Remove the four screws.
2. To remove the cage, lift it off of the eject button pin.
3. Remove the eject button for replacement.

92 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart

PC Card Cage

4. Verify the holes in the Sound/DC-in board, are aligned with the screw bosses under
them on the bottom case so that the PC card cage screws will install.
5. Install the replacement PC card cage and eject button.
Replacement Note: Ensure that the pin on the PC card cage eject button is secured
by the hole in the cage mechanism.

6. Lightly install all four screws before tightening (note: longer screws go in the back by
the flex cable), then tighten in the following order.

7. Reassemble the computer.
8. Testing the computer should include inserting a PC card to check that it can be locked
in and that the eject button works smoothly.

PC Card Cage

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart - 93

AirPort Extreme Slot
& Flex Cable

Tools
This procedure requires the following tools:
• #0 Phillips screwdriver (magnetized)
• #1 Phillips screwdriver (magnetized)
• Black stick (or other nonconductive nylon or plastic flat-blade tool)

Part Location

Preliminary Steps
Before you begin, remove the following:
• Battery
• AirPort Extreme card
• PC card cage
94 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart

AirPort Extreme Slot & Flex Cable

Procedure
1. Disconnect the AirPort Extreme antenna coupling. Grasp the coupling (not the wires)
at both ends and pull to separate at the middle.

2. If replacing the AirPort Extreme flex cable, remove the two screws.

AirPort Extreme Slot & Flex Cable

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart - 95

3. Remove four screws and lift out the AirPort Extreme card cage.

4. Notice the routing of the antenna cable jumper and remove. If not replacing, transfer to
the replacement cage.

96 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart

AirPort Extreme Slot & Flex Cable

5. Install the replacement AirPort Extreme card cage.
Replacement Note: Make sure the AirPort Extreme card cage door is closed before
installing.
6. Reassemble the computer.
7. Testing the computer should include inserting an AirPort Extreme card to check that it
can be fully inserted and the door closed. Use Apple System Profiler to check that the
AirPort Extreme card is recognized. Test that the AirPort Extreme card is working.

AirPort Extreme Slot & Flex Cable

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart - 97

Display Panel Assembly

Tools
This procedure requires the following tools:
• Torx T8 screwdriver (magnetized)
• #0 Phillips screwdriver (magnetized)
• Black stick (or other nonconductive nylon or plastic flat-blade tool)

Part Location

Preliminary Steps
Before you begin, remove the following:
• Battery
• Top case

98 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart

Display Panel Assembly

Procedure
1. Remove the two screws along the back, closest to the bottom of the computer.

2. Open the computer display.
3. Lift the Bluetooth antenna cable out of the channels on the left speaker, then
disconnect the antenna cable from the Bluetooth board.
Replacement Note: The Bluetooth antenna cable secures with the modem cable in
the channels along the left speaker. When re-securing, insert the Bluetooth antenna
wire into the channel first, then the modem wire.

Display Panel Assembly

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart - 99

4. Disconnect the AirPort Extreme antenna coupling. Remove Kapton tape if present,
then grasp the coupling (not the wires) at both ends and pull to separate at the middle.
Replacement Note: Use Kapton tape to secure the connector.

5. Disconnect the inverter cable.

100 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart

Display Panel Assembly

6. On the right side of the computer, disconnect the LVDS cable.

7. Move the display to a 90-degree angle and remove the four screws.
Important: Support the display from falling over before removing the last screw.

Display Panel Assembly

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart - 101

8. Lift the display straight up and off of the computer without catching wires.

9. Install the replacement display panel assembly.
Replacement Note: Make sure to capture the grounding loop with the back screw.

102 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart

Display Panel Assembly

10. Reassemble and test the computer.
11. Testing the computer should include the display panel. Use Bluetooth to connect to
another computer and verify proper AirPort Extreme function. Check the function of
the RJ-11 modem port.

Display Panel Assembly

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart - 103

Heatsink and Blowers Assembly

Tools
This procedure requires the following tools:
• Torx T8 screwdriver (magnetized)
• #1 Phillips screwdriver (magnetized)
• Thermal pad kit (076-1055), if not replacing the heatsink
• Alcohol pads

Part Location

Preliminary Steps
Before you begin, remove the following:
• Battery
• Display panel assembly
• Logic board

104 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart

Heatsink and Blowers Assembly

Procedure
Note: The heatsink and blowers are one assembly part.
1. Remove the screws and lift out the heatsink and blower assembly.

Important: Do not attempt to transfer blowers from one heatsink to another. This can
create acoustic issues.
2. If the heatsink was removed to facilitate another procedure and will be reinstalled,
follow the procedures in the Logic Board chapter about replacement of thermal pads.
3. If installing a replacement heatsink, and the thermal pads are not pre-installed, follow
the procedures in the Logic Board chapter to install the thermal pads.
Important: Do not install a heatsink with damaged or missing thermal pads.

Heatsink and Blowers Assembly

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart - 105

4. To install the replacement heatsink, install the screws in the order shown.

5. Reassemble and test all ports, components and functions of the computer.

106 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart

Heatsink and Blowers Assembly

Sound/DC-In Board

Tools
This procedure requires the following tools:
• Torx T8 screwdriver (magnetized)
• 5 mm socket wrench
• Black stick (or other nonconductive nylon or plastic flat-blade tool)

Part Location

Preliminary Steps
Before you begin, remove the following:
• Battery
• PC card cage
• Heatsink
Note: Replacing the RJ-11 port and wire requires removing the hard drive.

Sound/DC-In Board

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart - 107

Procedure
1. Remove the screws.

2. Disconnect the power and flex cables.

108 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart

Sound/DC-In Board

3. Guide out the sound/DC-in board.

Replacement Note: Install the “TO MLB” side of the flex cable to the logic board.

Sound/DC-In Board

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart - 109

4. Turn the board over and disconnect the Bluetooth cable.

5. Remove the RJ-11 port, with attached cable, to transfer to the replacement board.
The RJ-11 port slides off the sound/DC-in board but may be very tight. It may be
helpful to pull on the port, or push it with the flat blade of a black stick, until it begins
to move, then use a black stick to create leverage behind the port.

110 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart

Sound/DC-In Board

Replacement Note: If the replacement sound/DC-in board has an RJ-11 port
installed, remove it and install the existing RJ-11 port.
The RJ-11 board must go above the standoff.

6. Important: Connect the Bluetooth connector to the replacement sound/DC-in board.
7. Install the replacement sound/DC-in board.
Replacement Note: Verify that the port EMI metal rests above the port plastic.

Sound/DC-In Board

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart - 111

Replacement Note: Verify that the screw pass-through holes, at the Bluetooth
connector end of the board, line up with the screw bosses below them so that the PC
card cage screws can install properly.

8. Connect the speaker, power, and flex cables.
9. Reassemble and test the computer.
10. Testing should include using Bluetooth to connect to another computer. Check the
function of the modem port, DC-in port and the left USB port.

112 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart

Sound/DC-In Board

Bottom Case Assembly

Part Location

Preliminary Steps
Before you begin, remove the following:
• Battery
• Optical drive
• Modem
• AirPort Extreme card cage and flex cable
• DC-in board
• Bluetooth board

Bottom Case Assembly

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart - 113

Procedure
1. Verify that the following items are on the replacement bottom case:
• EMI shields
• Display latch assembly
• Battery latch assembly
• Sleep LED and wire connector assembly

2. Remove the battery connector and cable from the removed bottom case; transfer to
the replacement bottom case.

114 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart

Bottom Case Assembly

3. Remove two screws and remove the hard drive holder; transfer to the replacement
bottom case.

4. Reassemble and test all ports, components and functions of the computer, including
battery operation.

Bottom Case Assembly

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Take Apart - 115

 Service Source

Troubleshooting
PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800)

© 2003 Apple Computer, Inc. All rights reserved.

General Information

Wire and Flex Cables
With the very thin enclosure design and dispersed circuit board, a large number of flex
cables are used in this computer. In addition, there are a variety of wire cable harnesses
as well. Many of these cables carry multiple types of signals.
Here is a list of the cables and the signals that run across them. If you notice a group of
functions not working, it is likely that the cable is not properly inserted or the connector is
damaged.

Cable or Flex Cable Name

Signal(s) Running Through It

AirPort Extreme/Bluetooth antenna
assembly
(in display housing to diversity board)

AirPort/Bluetooth radio signals

AirPort Extreme antenna cable extension
(to AirPort card cage)

AirPort radio signal

AirPort Extreme Flex (to logic board)

AirPort data / power

Ambient Light Sensor (Left) cable

Light data from left side

Bluetooth cable (to Sound/DC-in board)

Bluetooth data/power

Blower, left cable (to logic board)

Power/control for left blower

Blower, right cable (to logic board)

Power/control for right blower

Hard drive flex (to logic board)

Hard drive control, data, and power

Inverter cable (from display panel)

High voltage for backlight

Inverter/antenna cable (to logic board and
wireless modules)

Display backlight control
AirPort radio signal
Bluetooth radio signal

Keyboard backlight cable (on top case)

Power to keyboard backlight LEDs

Keyboard flex (from keyboard)

Keyboard data and status lines

LVDS cable (from display housing)

Video data to display panel

General Information

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Troubleshooting - 1

Cable or Flex Cable Name

Signal(s) Running Through It

Main battery cable

Connects main battery to logic board

Modem flex (to logic board)

Modem control and data

Optical drive flex (to logic board)

Optical data, power, and control signals

PC Card cage flex (to logic board)

PC card data and power

Power Button cable

Power-on signal

RJ-11 cable (to modem)

Analog phone signal

Right USB flex

Right USB signal and power

Sleep LED cable (to logic board)

Power to sleep LED

Sound/DC-in board flex (to logic board)

Bluetooth data
Left USB connector
Left ambient light sensor
Digital audio in/out

Sound/DC-in board cable harness
(to logic board)

Power to system and main battery

Speaker assembly wire harness

Left speaker
Right speaker
Mid range speaker
Internal microphone

Trackpad flex

Trackpad data and power
Power on button
Keyboard backlight power

2 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Troubleshooting

General Information

Hardware Troubleshooting Tools and Tips
Apple Hardware Test 2.0.6 (AHT)
Starting with the PowerBook G4 (17-inch), the Apple Hardware Test software will be
incorporated into the Software Install and Restore DVD. There is no separate CD for this
diagnostic.
Note: Currently, these DVD images are not posted on Service Source online.
Previously, the C key was held down to boot into the diagnostics. With the combined DVD,
this action will boot into the software restore section of the disk. In order to access the
AHT on the DVD follow these steps:
1. Insert the DVD named “PowerBook G4 15-inch and 17-inch Software Install and
Restore” that came with your computer.
2. Hold down the Option key and restart the computer.
3. Click Apple Hardware Test volume in the startup manager.

4. Click the arrow that points to the right.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions.
Note: Apple Hardware Test 2.0.1 and later is not backwards compatible with PowerBook
computers prior to the PowerBook G4 (1Ghz/867Mhz).

Apple Service Diagnostic (ASD)
Since the PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) is a Mac OS X only system, MacTest Pro
software does not work on this computer. As a replacement, Apple System Diagnostic will
be delivered to service providers and can be downloaded from Knowledge Base article
112125: Service Diagnostics Matrix.
Important: ASD is not backward compatible with PowerBook computers prior to the
PowerBook G4 (1GHz/867MHz).

General Information

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Troubleshooting - 3

Apple Service Diagnostic Main screen

Apple Service Diagnostic Select test tab

4 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Troubleshooting

General Information

Apple Service Diagnostic Hardware info tab

Apple Service Diagnostic Test log tab

Resetting the Power Manager Unit (PMU)
The PMU reset button has been removed from the logic board. Use the following key
combination procedure or the PMU Reset pad (see PMU NMI and PMU Reset pads on
logic board, below).
1. If the computer is on, turn it off.
2. Reset the power manager by simultaneously pressing and then releasing ShiftControl-Option-power button. Do not press the fn (Function) key while using this
combination of keystrokes.
3. Wait 5 seconds.
4. Press the power button to restart the computer.

General Information

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Troubleshooting - 5

Power-on pads on logic board
With the top case removed, the power-on button is disconnected. Instead of having to
reconnect the top case to turn on the system, there are two pads on the logic board when
shorted together (with a tool like the head of a flat blade screwdriver) is the equivalent to
pushing the power-on button.
These pads are located near the edge of the logic board, just above center of the hard
drive. It is marked POWER BUTTON. The pads are separated with a vertical white line.

6 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Troubleshooting

General Information

PMU Reset pads on logic board
In addition to the power-on button pads on the logic board, there are pads for PMU reset.
These buttons work when their pads are shorted together (with a tool like the head of a flat
blade screwdriver). They are marked PMU RESET. The pads are separated with a white
horizontal line between the pads.
These pads are located near the edge of the logic board, just above center of the hard
drive.

Caps lock LED power check
There are situations when the system is giving indications that it is shut down (no hard
drive access, screen is dark, no blower, and so on). However, the logic board may still be
running. In this case, the logic board is drawing power and generating heat.
Warning: In this situation, if the computer is put in an enclosed environment like a
carrying bag, the computer can overheat.
Check this situation by pressing the caps lock key. If the LED glows, the PMU is running on
the logic board. After pressing the caps lock key and perhaps other methods of waking it
up fails, hold the power button down for six seconds to force a shut down of the computer.
Restart the system to check if it boots up normally.

General Information

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Troubleshooting - 7

Software Troubleshooting Tips and Tools
Mac OS X only
Starting with the PowerBook G4 (17-inch), the system will no longer boot into Mac OS 9.
Mac OS 9 applications can still be used, but only in the Mac OS X classic mode.
In locations such as the Startup Disk system preference pane, a Mac OS 9 folder will not
show up as an option.

Login window and account
Mac OS X requires at least one user account to be established. This is the Administrator’s
account. By default, the Accounts system preference pane has the “Log in automatically
[Admin’s name]” check. This automatic login setting allows the system to boot into the
Finder without having a log-in prompt.
However, if this box is not checked, you will need a password to get to the Finder. In
addition, you will need to create a user account after you re-install system software.

Customer forgot password
If the customer forgot the password for the computer:
1. Insert the Software Install and Restore DVD.
2. Restart the computer while holding down the C key on the keyboard.
3. When the installer appears, chose Reset Password from the Installer menu
4. Follow the on-screen instructions.

Safe Mode
The Mac OS X that shipped with the PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800), has a new startup
state called Safe Mode.
Safe Mode is the state Mac OS X is in after a Safe Boot. A Safe Boot is a special way to
start Mac OS X when troubleshooting. Starting up into Safe Mode does three things to
simplify the startup and operation of your computer:
1. It forces a directory check of the startup (boot) volume. It is identical to using Disk
Utility’s Repair Disk or the fsck –fy terminal command.
2. It loads only required kernel extensions (some of the items in /System/Library/
Extensions).
3. It runs only Apple-installed startup items (some of the items in /Library/Startup Items
and /System/Library/Startup items - and different than login items).
Taken together, these changes can work around issues caused by software or directory
damage on the startup volume.
8 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Troubleshooting

General Information

To start up into Safe Mode (to Safe Boot), do this:
1. Be sure the computer is shut down.
2. Press the power button.
3. Immediately after you hear the startup tone, press and hold the Shift key.
Note: The Shift key should be held as soon as possible after the startup tone but not
before.
4. Release the Shift key when you see the screen the gray Apple and progress indicator
(looks like a spinning gear).
During the startup, you will see "Safe Boot" on the Mac OS X startup screen (shown
below). To leave Safe Mode, restart the computer normally, without holding any keys
during startup.

Knowledge Base Articles
These troubleshooting articles can be searched from http://www.apple.com/support.
106692

Mac OS X: Troubleshooting Installation and Software Updates

106693

Mac OS X: Troubleshooting Installation From CD-ROM

General Information

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Troubleshooting - 9

Hardware Symptom Charts

How to Use the Symptom Charts
The Symptom Charts included in this chapter will help you diagnose specific symptoms
related to the product.
The steps to solve a symptom are listed sequentially. You might not need to perform every
step before the symptom is solved. Start with the first step, and then test for the symptom.
If the symptom persists, replace any modules you removed, go to the next step, and test
again. Continue down the list until the symptom is solved.

10 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Troubleshooting

Hardware Symptom Charts

Power Adapter Note
The system was designed to use the Apple 65-Watt Portable Power Adapter that came
with your computer. The previous 45-Watt Apple power adapter for PowerBooks is plug
compatible, but it may not provide sufficient power during some activities and power may
be drawn temporarily from the battery. You can identify the Apple 65W Power Adapter by
its markings (see photo).

Under low battery or no battery situations, the 45 watt power adapter may not be able to
provide enough power to properly support the system.
Although you may have used the 45 watt adapter with a PowerBook G4 (1Ghz/867Mhz)
without trouble, the peak power requirements of the PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) is
much higher and will have a higher chance of encountering compatibility issues.

Hardware Symptom Charts

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Troubleshooting - 11

Startup
The computer will not power on (no blower movement, hard drive spin up
and display is not lit)
1. Remove any connected peripherals and eject any PC card.
2. Check that the battery has enough charge to start the computer by pressing the button
next to the LEDs on the battery. At least one LED must light solid (not flashing).
3. Connect a known-good Apple 65W Portable Power Adapter (661-3048) and power
cord or plug to a known-good power outlet; make sure the DC plug is firmly inserted.
The DC plug should light up, if not, replace Sound/DC-in board.
Important: The Apple 65W Portable Power Adapter is highly recommended to be
used with the PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) computer. The adapters can be
identified by 65W in the name and markings, and the metal securing-stud on the plug
connector. Although previous 45W power adapters (see Knowledge Base article
88231 PowerBook and iBook: Apple Power Adapter) are plug compatible with the
PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800), it may not provide sufficient power during some
activities and power may be drawn temporarily from the battery.
4. Try powering up without the battery installed (only works with 65W power adapter). If it
boots, replace battery connector cable.
5. Perform the keyboard PMU reset procedure described in the Troubleshooting Aid
section.
Warning: Resetting the power manager will permanently remove a RAM disk, if
present, and all of its contents. You will also need to reset the date and time
(using the Date & Time system preference pane).
6. Press Caps Lock key to see if key light comes on. If it does, hold power button down
for six seconds to shut down the computer and restart.
7. If it still doesn’t start, verify power button cable is connected properly to top case flex
cable assembly and that the flex cable is connected correctly to the logic board, if
power button is not functioning correctly or damaged, replace the top case.
8. Disconnect keyboard completely. Inspect connectors. Restart with keyboard
disconnected.
9. Remove any additional RAM.
10. Remove AirPort Extreme Card.
11. Verify Sound/DC-in board cable is securely connected.
12. Try disconnecting the AirPort Extreme flex connector from the logic board and start
the computer. If it starts, shut it down and check the flex cable connector and the
connector on the logic board and replace the damaged parts.

12 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Troubleshooting

Hardware Symptom Charts

13. Repeat step 12 with the following flex cables one at a time, reconnecting each before
proceeding to the next cable:
• Sound/DC-in flex cable
• Hard drive flex cable
• Optical drive flex cable
• PC card cage flex cable
• Keyboard flex cable
• Trackpad flex cable
• Right USB flex cable
• Modem flex cable
If the computer starts up, inspect the flex cable connector and its connector on the
logic board for damage and replace the damaged parts.
14. Try known-good Sound/DC-in board.
15. Replace logic board.

Memory error message “The built-in memory test has detected an error”
appears on the screen
1. Run Apple Service Diagnostic Test. Note: If the failure is intermittent, run Apple
Service Diagnostic Test in loop mode (check looping options under Test Controls tab
and select only the RAM test under the Select Tests tab) for an extended time to test
the memory.
2. If the test can’t find the memory or finds bad memory, inspect the bad DIMM. Verify
proper memory is being used. The PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) uses PC2700
(also called DDR333) DDR SDRAM SO-DIMMs with a maximum height of 1.25-inch
(30 mm). If improper memory is being used replace it. Otherwise, try reseating the
DIMM and retest. If still reported as bad, replace it.
3. Check the memory connector for damage (retention arms broken, connectors bent or
missing, connector lifted from logic board). If damage is detected replace the logic
board.

Hardware Symptom Charts

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Troubleshooting - 13

Blue screen appears (a spinning disc cursor may also be visible),
Prohibitory Sign appears,
Restart dialog box appears (Mac OS X 10.2 kernel panic window), or
Gray screen during startup

Prohibitory Sign

Kernel Panic dialog box
1. Make sure all external devices are disconnected and any PC card ejected. If kernel
panic goes away, troubleshoot the external device by reconnecting each device until
the panic occurs.
2. If there are two RAM cards installed in the expansion slots, remove the top card and
restart.
• If symptom repeats, replace bottom card with known-good RAM card.
• If symptom does not repeat, replace top RAM card with known-good RAM card and
restart.
For assistance in software troubleshooting, go to Knowledge Base article 106464: Mac
OS X: Troubleshooting a Startup Issue.
14 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Troubleshooting

Hardware Symptom Charts

Flashing question mark appears on the screen
Note: This system will only boot the Mac OS X system that shipped with this computer or
later. It does not support booting into Mac OS 9.
1. Start up from the software install and restore DVD that came with the computer (hold
down the "C" key during restart).
2. When the Installer opens, from the Installer menu, select Open Disk Utility.
3. When the Disk Utility opens, on the left hand side, all disk and volumes are listed. If
you don’t see the internal hard drive, the system is not recognizing it. Skip to step 4.
Otherwise, select the First Aid tab and follow the instructions to verify the hard disk,
and repair if needed. Restart the computer.
4. If the hard drive is not recognized, check the hard drive flex cable for damaged
connectors (connector peeled off the flex cable, for example), and if bad replace the
hard drive flex cable.
5. Reseat the hard drive flex cable. If still not recognized, replace the hard drive.
Important: If the computer is under warranty and data recovery is required, refer to
Knowledge Base article 31077: DriveSavers: Hard Drive Data Recovery & Warranty
Implications, for important information.
6. Reinstall system software using the software install and restore disc.
Note: Don’t forget to install both the Mac OS X and Applications and Classic
software. This operation is completed with two separate installs. Restore disc images
are available at http://service.info.apple.com. Select “Disc Images.”

Computer begins to power up, the blowers and hard drive are spinning,
pressing caps lock key and LED turns on, but there is no startup chime or
video
1. Reset the power manager by using the keyboard sequence. Wait five seconds before
continuing. Press the power button to start the computer.
Warning: Resetting the power manager will permanently remove a RAM disk, if
present, and all of its contents. You will also need to reset the date and time
(using the Date & Time system preferences pane).
2. Replace the logic board.

Hardware Symptom Charts

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Troubleshooting - 15

System shuts down intermittently
Important: This issue can be a result of not using the 65W power adapter with the
PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) computers. Confirm with the customer which adapter
they were using when having this problem. The adapter can be identified by 65W in the
name and markings, and the metal securing-stud on the plug connector.
1. Disconnect all external peripherals and eject any PC card.
2. Make sure a known good fully charged battery is fully inserted. Check both battery
latches are fully engaged and are not broken or getting caught before fully catching.
Check battery connection to logic board.
3. Make a visual inspection of the battery connector in the battery bay. Make sure all
blades are visible and not bend. If damaged replace the battery connector.
4. Make sure system is not over heating, the air vents are clear and unit was not used on
a soft surface.
5. Check that the blower cables are connected and the blowers are operational.
6. Make sure all feet are still on the system bottom. If not, order foot replacement kit.
7. Check that the thermal material between the heat exchanger and logic board is in
contact with both by unscrewing the logic board screws and gently pulling up on the
left side of the board to verify resistance caused by adhesion from the thermal
material. If not, new thermal materials for the processor, control ASIC, and video chip
must be reinstalled (see Logic Board Take Apart chapter).
8. Remove the battery and connect known-good 65W power adapter (661-3048) and
power cord or plug to a known-good power outlet; make sure the DC plug is firmly
inserted. The DC plug should light up, if not, replace Sound/DC-in board.
9. Verify Sound/DC-in board cable is securely connected and cable shows no signs of
wear.
10. Try known-good Sound/DC-in board.
11. Replace the logic board.

System shuts down almost immediately after startup
1. Disconnect all external peripherals and eject any PC card.
2. Make sure a known good battery is fully inserted. Check battery charge and make
sure that at least two LED charge indicators light, otherwise connect the adapter. The
adapter should light amber when plugged in. If not, replace the adapter.
3. After charging for a while, if battery does not seem to charge, or if charged up but
quickly discharges, replace the battery. Verify known good battery.
4. Check battery connection to logic board, and check wire attachment to connectors.
5. If known good battery does not charge, replace Sound/DC-in board.
6. Replace the logic board.
16 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Troubleshooting

Hardware Symptom Charts

Application Quits, Kernel panic or other booting problems
1. If a specific application quits, replace the application. Verify the application is
compatible with OS X.
2. Clear parameter RAM. Hold down Command-Option-P-R during startup until you hear
a second startup chime.
3. Run Disk Utility from the Software Install and Restore DVD.
4. Perform a clean install of system software with the software install and restore disc
that came with the computer.
Note: Restore disc images are available at http://service.info.apple.com. Select “Disc
Images.”
5. Reboot system.
6. Run Apple Service Diagnostic in loop mode (Control-L) for an extended time to test
the memory. If the test finds bad memory, replace the DIMMs one at a time and test
until all bad DIMMs are replaced with known-good modules.
7. Replace the logic board.

Error Beeps
The computer automatically performs a power-on self test when it is turned on after being
fully shut down (not a restart). This section describes what to do if beeps are heard during
the startup.
Note: The PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) uses PC2700 (also called DDR333) DDR
SDRAM SO-DIMMs with a maximum height of 1.25-inch (30 mm). Refer to Memory Card
Take Apart chapter for removal and installation.

Computer beeps once at startup
1. One beep means that no RAM is detected.
Note: There is no RAM on the logic board itself, so the computer will beep if no
memory is installed in at least one of the RAM slots.
2. Put the original RAM that came with the computer back in, or put in known-good and
compatible RAM and restart.
• If symptom does not repeat, replace RAM card(s).
• If symptom repeats, replace logic board.

Hardware Symptom Charts

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Troubleshooting - 17

Computer beeps twice at startup
1. Two beeps means that EDO memory is installed in the RAM expansion slot. The
PowerBook does not accept EDO memory.
2. Replace RAM card(s) with known-good and compatible RAM and restart.
• If symptom repeats, replace logic board.

Computer beeps three times at startup
1. Three beeps means that no RAM banks passed memory testing.
2. If a RAM card is installed in the upper expansion slot (if not, skip to next step), remove
it and restart.
• If symptom does not repeat, replace RAM card.
• If symptom repeats, replace RAM in lower RAM slot with known-good and
compatible RAM card and restart. If symptom repeats, replace logic board.
3. If a RAM card is not installed in the upper expansion slot, replace RAM in lower RAM
slot with known-good and compatible RAM card and restart.
• If symptom repeats, replace logic board.

Computer beeps four times at startup
1. Four beeps indicates a bad checksum for the remainder of the boot ROM. The ROM
(which is located on the logic board) is bad.
2. Replace RAM card(s) with known-good and compatible RAM and restart.
• If symptom repeats, replace logic board.
Related Knowledge Base articles:
58442: Power On Self-Test Beep Definition - Part 2
95132: PowerBook G4: Installing or Replacing Memory

18 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Troubleshooting

Hardware Symptom Charts

AirPort Extreme Card
AirPort Extreme Card not recognized
1. In Mac OS X, use Software Update in system preferences or see the Apple Software
Updates web page to make sure the latest version of AirPort Extreme software is
installed.
2. Restart the computer.
3. Open AirPort in system preferences and make sure AirPort is on and Base Station is
selected.
4. Check the AirPort Extreme Card flex cable connection to the logic board.
5. Remove and reinstall the AirPort Extreme software.
6. Replace with known-good AirPort Extreme Card.
7. Replace logic board.

AirPort connection is slow
1. Move computer closer to AirPort Base Station or other AirPort device.
2. Too many users are accessing network at the same time causing heavy network
traffic. To improve network connection speed, add additional AirPort Base Stations.
3. Check for other changes in the environment that may cause interference with the
AirPort signal.
4. Use Software Update in system preferences or see the Apple Software Updates web
page to make sure the latest version of AirPort Extreme software is installed.
5. Restart the computer.
6. Check the AirPort Extreme Card flex cable connection to the logic board.
7. Check the connection on both ends of the AirPort Extreme Card antenna jumper
cable, if loose, reconnect and test again.
8. Check the AirPort Extreme Card antenna jumper cable for damaged insulation or a
crimped cable. If bad, replace antenna jumper cable.
9. Replace with known-good AirPort Extreme Card.
10. Check AirPort Extreme antenna wire coming from display panel for nicked insulator or
crimped wire. If bad, replace display panel assembly.
11. Replace logic board.

Hardware Symptom Charts

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Troubleshooting - 19

Battery
Battery will not eject
1. Flip over the unit and turn the battery latch clockwise.
2. If the battery does not pop up, use a small plastic flat-blade tool to pry up the battery
around the battery latch.
3. Verify proper latch operation, by exercising the latch. If it does not move smoothly or
evenly, replace the bottom case.
4. If the latch does exercise correctly, verify that the customer is not installing the battery
with excessive force or the body of the battery has not been deformed around its
perimeter.
Warning: If the battery plastic housing has been damaged, or the two halves of the
plastic housing have separated, the battery is unsafe for use.
5. Try a new battery.
6. Replace bottom case.

The battery won't charge
1. Remove any externally connected peripherals.
2. Try known-good power outlet.
3. Connect known-good 65W power adapter (661-3048) and power cord or plug; make
sure the DC plug is firmly inserted. The DC plug should light up, if not, replace Sound/
DC-in board.
If the power adapter light is green, turn over the computer and press the battery
button. The battery lights should glow green and stay on if the power adapter is
operating correctly.
Important: The Apple 65W Power Adapter is highly recommended be used with the
PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) computer. The adapters can be identified by 65W in
the name and markings, and the metal securing-stud on the plug connector. Although
previous 45W power adapters (see Knowledge Base article 88231 PowerBook and
iBook: Apple Power Adapter) are plug compatible with the PowerBook G4 (15-inch
FW800), it may not provide sufficient power to operate the system during some
activities and may draw power from the battery.
4. Try known-good battery. If it charges, replace the battery. If doesn’t charge, check the
battery connector and its connection to the logic board.
5. Replace the battery connector assembly (requires removing the logic board).

20 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Troubleshooting

Hardware Symptom Charts

6. Turn off the computer. Perform the keyboard PMU reset procedure described in the
Hardware Troubleshooting Tools and Tips section. Wait five seconds before
continuing. Press the power button to start the computer.
Warning: Resetting the power manager will permanently remove a RAM disk, if
present, and all of its contents. You will also need to reset the date and time
(using the Date & Time system preference pane).
7. Make sure the Sound/DC-in cable is firmly connected. Look for damaged insulation or
wires.
8. Replace Sound/DC-in power cable.
9. Replace Sound/DC-in board.
10. Replace logic board.

Bluetooth
Bluetooth system preferences does not show up under Hardware system
preferences
1. Check the wire connectors to Sound/DC-in board and the Bluetooth card. Make sure
the cable is not damaged and fully inserted.
2. Replace Bluetooth card.
3. Replace the logic board.

Bluetooth Card not recognized by other devices
1. Open Bluetooth in system preferences and make sure under the Settings tab that
Discoverable is checked.
2. Check the Bluetooth antenna is connected to Bluetooth card.
3. Replace with known-good Bluetooth card.
4. Replace display panel assembly.
5. Replace logic board.

Hardware Symptom Charts

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Troubleshooting - 21

Display
Display latch not working
Note: When the display is being closed, hooks in the top of the display housing should be
magnetically pulled down to the latch. When the latch button is pushed, the hook should
release and retract into the display housing.
1. Verify hook operation by using a small low-power magnet to exercise the latch
mechanism. Make sure hooks are not bent.
2. If the hook does not operate properly, replace the display panel assembly.
3. If the latch or latch button does not operate properly, replace the top case assembly.

When displaying a single color over the screen area, the LCD panel shows one
or more pixels that are not properly lit
To determine whether or not the display has an acceptable number of pixel anomalies,
follow the steps below:
1. Set the display image to one of the following colors: all-white display, all-red display,
all-green display, or all-blue display. Knowledge Base article 112125: Service
Diagnostics Matrix, has the LCD Tester Diagnostic Utility that will generate these
patterns on the screen.
2. Using a jeweler’s loupe, pocket microscope, or other magnifying device, identify and
count each pixel anomaly:
• Bright subpixel anomaly = subpixel that is always on
• Dark subpixel anomaly = subpixel that is always off
3. The number of acceptable pixel anomalies for this system is:
Acceptable Number of Subpixel Anomalies

Bright

Up to 3

Dark

Up to 5

Combination

Up to 7

4. If the number of subpixel anomalies exceeds the acceptable number listed in the
above chart, replace the display panel assembly.
Replace

Bright

4 or more

Dark

6 or more

Combination

8 or more

22 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Troubleshooting

Hardware Symptom Charts

5. If the number of subpixel anomalies is acceptable, explain to the customer that the
pixel anomalies are within specifications, and no repair is necessary.
Important: Do not release the specifications to customers. Instead, inform them that a
certain number of subpixel anomalies are considered acceptable, and these factors apply
to all manufacturers using LCD technology—not just Apple products.
When speaking with customers, please use the following explanation:
Active-matrix LCD technology uses rows and columns of addressable locations (pixels)
that render text and images on screen. Each pixel location has three separate subpixels
(red, green, and blue) that allow the image to be rendered in full color. Each subpixel has a
corresponding transistor responsible for turning the subpixel on or off.
There are typically millions of these subpixels on an LCD display. For example, the LCD
panel used in the Apple Cinema HD display is made up of 2.3 million pixels and 6.9 million
red, green, and blue subpixels. Occasionally, a transistor does not work perfectly, which
may result in the affected subpixel being turned on (bright) or turned off (dark). With the
millions of subpixels on a display, it is quite possible to have a low number of faulty
transistors on an LCD. Therefore, a certain number of subpixel anomalies are considered
acceptable. Rejecting all but perfect LCD panels would significantly increase the retail
price for products using LCD displays. These factors apply to all manufacturers using LCD
technology—not just Apple products.

Hard Drive
Internal hard drive will not initialize:
1. Start up from the software install and restore disc that came with the computer (hold
down the "C" key during restart).
2. When the Installer opens, from the Installer menu, select Open Disk Utility.
3. If the hard drive is recognized, format it under the Erase tab.
4. If the hard drive is not recognized, reseat the hard drive flex cable, or replace if
needed.
5. If still not recognized, replace the hard drive.
6. Reinstall system software using the software install and restore disc.
Important: If the computer is under warranty and data recovery is required, refer to
Knowledge Base article 31077: DriveSavers: Hard Drive Data Recovery & Warranty
Implications, for important information.

Hardware Symptom Charts

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Troubleshooting - 23

Keyboard
No response from any key on keyboard
1. Remove any connected peripherals and eject any PC card.
2. Attach an external USB keyboard, if it doesn’t work, go to step 7.
3. Turn off the computer. Check the keyboard flex cable connection to the logic board
(especially check the connector on the logic board for damage).
4. Start up from the software install and restore disc that came with the computer (hold
down the "C" key during restart, if possible) to verify that it is not a software problem.
5. Replace keyboard.
6. Replace logic board.

No keyboard illumination
1. Go to Keyboard system preference pane and make sure the “Illuminate keyboard in
low light conditions” check box is checked. Try using system in a dimly lit environment.
Note: The keyboard illumination is not bright enough to be seen in most well lit spaces. In
order to view the key being illuminated, the ambient light needs to be dim.

2. Check the keyboard backlight cable connection to the trackpad flex cable, if bad,
replace the top case.
3. Replace logic board.
24 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Troubleshooting

Hardware Symptom Charts

Half keyboard is illuminated.
1. Check the keyboard backlight cable connection to the trackpad flex cable and the
trackpad flex cable connection to the logic board. If the connections look good, change
the top case.

Microphone
The microphone is not working
1. Check the Sound system preference pane and verify the selection under the Input tab
is for the built-in microphone.
2. Check the signal level and level meter and adjust the gain.
3. Reset PRAM (Press the power button, then hold down the Option-Command-P-R
keys until you hear the startup chime at least one additional time after the initial
startup chime).
Warning: Resetting the PRAM will permanently remove a RAM disk, if present
and all of its contents. You will also need to reset the date and time (using the
Date & Time system preference pane).
4. If there is no sound output from the internal speaker as well as the microphone not
working, verify cable connections.
5. Replace the speaker assembly.
6. Replace sound/DC-in board flex cable.
7. Replace the sound/DC-in board.
8. Replace the logic board.

Hardware Symptom Charts

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Troubleshooting - 25

Modem
No modem dial tone
1. Check that the correct modem is selected in the Network Port Configuration section of
the Network system preferences.
2. Verify known-good analog (not digital) telephone line.
3. Verify known-good RJ-11 telephone cable.
4. Verify RJ-11 cable is not plugged into Ethernet port.
5. Inspect RJ-11 connector and modem port for pin damage.
6. Verify RJ-11 telephone cable is firmly installed in the modem port.
7. If using Apple Remote Access, select Ignore Dial Tone in the Modem control panel. If
the modem connects with this settings selected, try another phone line. If using a
terminal or communications program, enter atx1 to disable tone detection. To reset the
modem back to the factory settings, enter atz.
8. Check RJ-11 wires to Sound/DC-in board. Replace if bad.
9. Verify RJ-11 wire’s 2-pin connectors are plugged into correctly.
10. Check modem flex cable is properly installed. Replace cable if needed.
11. Replace modem.
12. Replace logic board.

Modem does not respond (can hear dial tone)
1. Check that the correct modem is selected in the Network Port Configuration section of
the Network system preferences.
2. Check modem application is properly configured.
3. Check modem flex cable is properly installed. Replace cable if needed.
4. Replace modem.
5. Replace logic board.

26 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Troubleshooting

Hardware Symptom Charts

Optical Drive
The optical drive does not accept CD or DVD disc (mechanical failure)
1. Verify disc is not warped and is a 12 cm circular disc.
2. Check that a small disc is not stuck inside, or other foreign objects. Remove drive from
system to extract disc.
3. Verify disc is pushed almost all the way into the slot.
4. Check the optical drive flex cable.
5. Replace optical drive.

The disc icon does not show up on desktop, or a dialog box appears to
initialize disc, when inserting a read-only disc
1. Verify the correct type of disc is being used.
2. Use Software Update system preference pane to check if there is updated firmware.
3. Try cleaning the disc. If it is dirty or scratched, it may not mount.
4. Try a different disc.
5. Replace optical drive cable.
6. Replace optical drive.

Difficulty writing to optical media
1. Verify the correct type of disc is being used.
2. Try a different brand or speed of CD-R disc.
Note: Some brands of 24x or 32x CD-R media may not work with the SuperDrive.
Note: There are two factors in the ability for the optical drive to write to media. First, there
are varying qualities of blank optical media. Some media are made to such low
specifications that the ability for the drive to write to it is marginal.
There are variations in optical media even under the same brand. Some brands source
their optical media from a variety of manufacturers, so there may be variations in the
quality.
Second, an optical drive that supports writing to a CD-R/RW or DVD-R/RW disc requires a
special writing algorithm for discs from different disc manufacturers. There are hundreds of
disc manufacturers, it is impossible to implement writing algorithms for each disc
manufacturer. Usually, drive manufacturers implement special writing algorithms for discs
from major disc manufacturers. For discs that are not supported by the drive with special
writing algorithms, the drive will use a generic writing algorithm to write the disc. In this
case, the writability and readability may not be optimal.
3. Replace optical drive flex cable.
4. Replace optical drive.
Hardware Symptom Charts

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Troubleshooting - 27

PC Card
PC Card will not insert into the PC Card slot
1. Make sure the PC Card eject button is in, before attempting to insert a PC Card.
2. Make sure the PC Card is right side up (cards are keyed and cannot be inserted
upside down).
3. Verify the PC Card is not warped or damaged in any way; if so replace the card.
4. Try a different PC Card.
5. Carefully raise the PC Card slot cover and check for a foreign object inside the slot.
6. If the slot cover is preventing the card from being inserted, replace the top case.
7. Replace PC Card Cage.

PC Card does not mount to the desktop
1. Make sure the PC Card has its drivers installed.
2. Check if a known good PC card works in this slot. The PC card may be bad.
3. Check the PC card cage flex cable connection to the logic board.
4. Replace the PC card cage.
5. Replace the logic board.

Ports
A USB port is not recognizing devices
1. Completely shut down, then press the power button to start the computer.
2. Use Software Update system preferences to verify that the latest software is installed.
3. For USB, test ports with an Apple keyboard or mouse. If the left port is not recognized
check the Sound/DC-in flex cable’s condition and connection. If the right port is not
recognized check the backup battery flex cable’s condition and connection.
4. If the USB flex cables are fine, replace the Sound/DC-in board for the left USB port or
the backup battery board for the right port.
5. Use Apple System Profiler to verify that the computer is recognizing the bus. If not
replace the logic board.

28 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Troubleshooting

Hardware Symptom Charts

A USB device not recognized by computer
Note: If you are trying to use a serial device with a USB/Serial adapter, check with the
manufacturer of the adapter for compatibility.
1. Completely shut down, then press the power button to start the computer.
2. Verify current driver for the device is installed.
3. If a camera, turn on camera after initiating download with camera application.
4. Try the other USB port.
5. Try different USB device on same port.
6. Eliminate chain by plugging in only one peripheral.
7. Try known-good Apple USB keyboard or mouse to verify the port is working properly. If
the left port is bad, check the Sound/DC-in board flex cable and connections. If the
right port is bad, check the backup battery flex cable and connections.
8. If the USB flex cables are fine, replace the Sound/DC-in board for the left USB port or
the backup battery board for the right port.
9. Replace logic board.

A FireWire port is not recognizing devices
1. Test the FireWire 400 and FireWire 800 ports by connecting to another computer
using FireWire Target Disk Mode.
Refer to Knowledge Base article 58583: How to Use FireWire Target Disk Mode.
Important: When in FireWire Target Disk Mode, use only one FireWire port at a time.
Otherwise you risk corrupting the internal hard drive volume.
2. Verify that drivers are installed properly for third party, if needed.
3. Make sure the cables are firmly attached.
4. Try a different cable.
5. If self powered make sure that the power supply is connected and device's LED
indicates that it is getting power.
6. Replace logic board.

Hardware Symptom Charts

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Troubleshooting - 29

Sound
No sound heard and the Speakers section of the Sound system preference
pane indicates that an external device is plugged in (to the headphone jack or
USB ports)
1. If there is nothing plugged into the headphone jack or USB ports, under the Output tab
of the Sound system preference pane should be set to the internal speakers.
2. If not, and if nothing is plugged in, try plugging in headphones or external speakers.
Restart the computer. Remove the device.
3. Reset PRAM (Press the power button, then hold down the Option-Command-P-R
keys until you hear the startup chime at least one additional time after the initial
startup chime).
Warning: Resetting the PRAM will permanently remove a RAM disk, if present,
and all of its contents. You will also need to reset the date and time (using the
Date & Time system preferences pane).
4. Check the sound board flex cable to see if the cable is properly seated, the connection
is good, and there is no cable damage.
5. Replace sound board.
6. Replace logic board.

No sound from speaker(s)
1. Use the Software Update system preference pane to verify that the latest audio
update has been installed.
2. Press the F3 key (with the fn key pressed and not pressed) to verify that mute mode is
not enabled.
3. Press the F4 or F5 key (with the fn key pressed and not pressed) to check the volume
setting.
4. Verify no external speakers or headphones are plugged in.
5. Check the speakers tab on the Sound control panel to confirm that the software is
correctly seeing that there are no external speakers or headphones connected.
6. Shutdown computer and restart.
7. Reset PRAM (Press the power button, then hold down the Option-Command-P-R
keys until you hear the startup chime at least one additional time after the initial
startup chime).
Warning: Resetting the PRAM will permanently remove a RAM disk, if present,
and all of its contents. You will also need to reset the date and time (using the
Date & Time system preference pane).
8. Verify that the speaker cable is connected properly to sound board.

30 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Troubleshooting

Hardware Symptom Charts

9. Check speaker cable. Verify left and right cable connections.
10. Check with headphones or external speaker, if audio is heard, replace speaker
assembly.
11. Replace sound board flex cable.
12. Replace sound board.
13. Replace the logic board.

Distorted sound from speakers
1. Verify sound is correct with external speakers/headphones. If sound is correct, check
speaker wire and connections.
2. In Sound system preference pane, check balance.
3. Compare same sound with two different units to make sure that sound is actually
distorted.
4. Check speaker wire. If damaged, replace speaker assembly.
5. Replace sound board.
6. Replace sound board flex cable.
7. Replace logic board.

Hardware Symptom Charts

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Troubleshooting - 31

Trackpad
The cursor does not move when you are using trackpad
1. Verify that no USB device is connected.
2. Boot from the Software Install and Restore DVD to verify that it is not a software
problem.
3. Reset the power manager by pressing the key combination Control-Option-Shift
Power.
Note: Make sure you do not hold down the “fn” key when resetting the power
manager.
4. Check trackpad flex cable connection to the logic board.
5. Replace top case.
6. Replace logic board.

The cursor intermittently does not move or moves erratically
Note: User must touch with the surface of only one finger at a time and point directly down
on the trackpad surface.
1. Clean trackpad surface (with computer off, using a non-static-inducing material).
2. Completely shut down, then press the power button to start the computer.
3. Reset the power manager by pressing the key combination Control-Option-Shiftpower.
Note: Make sure you do not hold down the “fn” key when resetting the power
manager.
4. Try unit on battery power. If problem goes away, replace power adapter.
5. Place the Software Install and Restore DVD in the optical disc drive, press the start
button and hold down the "C" key. Check the cursor movement, to see if the problem is
software.
6. Check trackpad flex cable connection to the logic board.
7. Replace top case.
8. Replace logic board.

32 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Troubleshooting

Hardware Symptom Charts

Video
No display, or dim display, but computer appears to operate correctly
1. Remove any connected peripherals.
2. Make sure F1 key is not stuck down.
3. Press the F2 key (with the fn key pressed and not pressed) to increase the screen
brightness settings.
4. Reboot the computer—hold down the Control and Command keys and press the
Power button to restart the computer. Or, press and hold the Power button for 5 to 10
seconds to shut down the computer, then press the Power button to restart.
5. Important: The Apple 65W Power Adapter is highly recommended be used with the
PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) computer. The adapters can be identified by 65W in
the name and markings, and the metal securing-stud on the plug connector. Although
previous 45W power adapters (see Knowledge Base article 88231 PowerBook and
iBook: Apple Power Adapter) are plug compatible with the PowerBook G4 (15-inch
FW800), it may not have sufficient power to operate the system during some activities
and may draw power from the battery.
6. Verify inverter cable and LVDS cable connections are seated properly and that the
cables are not damaged.
7. Replace display panel assembly.
8. Replace logic board.

Computer appears to work, but no video on external device connected to the
TV out port (S-video out port)
1. The device must be connected to the S-video port while the PowerBook is sleeping or
off for the device to be recognized.
2. Verify monitor that is used in testing is known-good and is supported by this computer.
3. Try different cable(s).
4. Replace logic board.

No video on an external VGA device connected to the external monitor (DVI)
port
1. Verify monitor that is used in testing is known-good and is supported by this computer.
2. Try another DVI-to-VGA adapter cable.
3. Restart the computer and test again.
4. Replace logic board.

Hardware Symptom Charts

PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Troubleshooting - 33

Misc. Symptoms
The Date and Time settings reset all the time
Note: Resetting the power manager or PRAM resets the date and time.
1. Do a backup battery test:
• Set the date and time.
• Perform a Shut Down from the Apple menu.
• Remove the main battery and disconnect the power adapter for 10 minutes.
• Connect the power adapter, insert the battery, and power on the computer.
• If the date and time were lost the backup battery may be dead or discharged.
• Remove the main battery from the unit and leave the PowerBook plugged in for at
least 5 hours.
Note: If a discharged main battery is installed in the computer, recharging the backup
battery may take up to 48 hours to completely charge. It is okay to use it while it is
charging.
• If the date and time still reset, replace the backup battery cable.
2. Replace backup battery board.
3. Replace the logic board.
Note: For main and backup battery part numbers, refer to Knowledge Base article 11751:
Macintosh Family: Batteries and Part Numbers.

Feet came off the bottom case
1. Replace the missing foot.

Sleep LED does not come on when lid is closed
1. Put the computer to sleep using the menu option. If the sleep LED goes on, there is a
problem with lid sensing. If not skip to step 3.
2. Put a small low-power magnet over the trackpad and move it around. If the unit sleeps,
replace the top case. If not replace the display panel assembly.
3. Check that the sleep LED is plugged into the logic board.
4. Connect a USB mouse. Short the power on pads on the logic board to boot the
system and use the mouse to sleep from the menu. Measure the voltage at the LED
connector. If power is present, replace bottom case.
5. Replace logic board.

34 - PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW800) Troubleshooting

Hardware Symptom Charts



---

Source Exif Data:

File Type                       : PDF
File Type Extension             : pdf
MIME Type                       : application/pdf
PDF Version                     : 1.5
Linearized                      : Yes
Page Count                      : 152
Page Mode                       : UseOutlines
XMP Toolkit                     : XMP toolkit 2.9.1-13, framework 1.6
About                           : uuid:030f61eb-e8d3-11d7-ae89-003065ef9770
Producer                        : Acrobat Distiller 4.05 for Macintosh
Modify Date                     : 2003:09:16 22:51:41-07:00
Create Date                     : 2003:09:16 16:38:41Z
Creator Tool                    : FrameMaker 6.0
Metadata Date                   : 2003:09:16 22:51:41-07:00
Document ID                     : uuid:1343af0e-e8d2-11d7-ae89-003065ef9770
Format                          : application/pdf
Creator                         : FrameMaker 6.0

EXIF Metadata provided by EXIF.tools