12" Powerbook G4 & Second Battery

[jaw04005]

Does the 12" Powerbook support exchanging its battery without shutting down? I know the 15" will allow you to put your computer in sleep mode, and then you can swap batteries, but I couldn't find that information on Apple's website.

 

[ZaniCWB]

Does the 12" Powerbook support exchanging its battery without shutting down? I know the 15" will allow you to put your computer in sleep mode, and then you can swap batteries, but I couldn't find that information on Apple's website.

Based on my experience and from what I've read, it's not possible. It's a feature present in the 15" and 17" lines only. These models have what is supposed to be an small extra battery, "watch" battery, and can hold the system on (sleeping, of course) for around 15-20 sec.

 

[Zaty]

Based on my experience and from what I've read, it's not possible. It's a feature present in the 15" and 17" lines only. These models have what is supposed to be an small extra battery, "watch" battery, and can hold the system on (sleeping, of course) for around 15-20 sec.

It's called a PRAM battery (I think). Like you said, the 12" PB doesn't have it, (neither do iBooks) so you have to shut it down in order change batteries.

 

[cluthz]

Here's info about the "missing" backup battary in 12-inch pb and ibook
http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=58445

Changing a Battery in a Portable Without a Backup Battery

Because there is no backup battery in the portable computers listed in the section above, additional care should be taken ensure the AC adapter is plugged in.

Removing the Main System Battery without AC Power

When removing the main battery without the AC Adapter, the computer should be shut down since the contents of RAM are lost when no power is available. There is a small capacitor that maintains the system clock long enough to swap the main battery.

 

[Chip NoVaMac]

It's called a PRAM battery (I think). Like you said, the 12" PB doesn't have it, (neither do iBooks) so you have to shut it down in order change batteries.

Add that as an advantage for the 15 and 17's.