Windows OS on a G4 ibook

[SBSBITA]

Hi,

My girlfriend has a 3-4 year old G4 ibook. We were wondering if it is possible to install a Windows OS on it? We both have PC based MP3 players as well as some other stuff we’d like to do via PC. Her ibook is in great shape, so we’d really rather not get rid of it.

If we can’t and decide to go with a new MAC Laptop, how do we go about getting a Windows OS for it? Do we order one with the laptop?

On a final note, if we decide to scrap the old one where’s the best place to try to sell it? Ebay is an obvious choice but we were just curios if there’s another place.

Thanks.

[Queso]

The iBooks run a PowerPC processor, a G4 in this case. Windows will only run natively on the Macs containing Intel processors, so unless you want to go the emulation route, eBay the iBook and get a MacBook as replacement. If you have more than 100 posts, you could also start a thread on this site's MarketPlace forum and see what you get offered for it.

Apple doesn't sell Windows on Macs, so you will need to buy a boxed copy of Windows XP in addition to the MacBook.

Hope this helps

[SBSBITA]

Thanks dynamicv.

Do you know if Apple sells the boxed windows or do I have to buy it from a third party?

[Sun Baked]

On an iBook it is possible using Virtual PC (http://www.microsoft.com/mac/products/virtualpc/virtualpc.aspx?pid=virtualpc), but it isn't something you would want to use for anything other opening and closing files -- it is painful to use for much else.

Much better to buy http://www.dataviz.com/products/maclinkplus/ to attempt to open/translate those pesky Windows files and avoid Virtual PC.

Buy the MacBook, and buy a copy of Windows anywhere it is on sale -- they seem to be available most anywhere like a virus.

[Queso]

Do you know if Apple sells the boxed windows or do I have to buy it from a third party?
Apple only sell Windows XP as part of Microsoft's Virtual PC for Mac program, which is rather an expensive option. You're better off just buying a copy from your local store.

[SBSBITA]

Thanks Everyone