PowerBook G4 (titanium), few questions before I buy

[vorob]

This may sound weird, but I decided to buy a Titanium PowerBook. It's for my collection of old and unique computers. But before I do this, I've got few questions.

Since CPU is clocked at 550mhz, looks like it's "Onyx", Gigabit TiBook. As I understood it's the second gen of titanium books. What about its hinges? I know Titanium was infamous for their weak hinges, but maybe second gen was better? The unit I'm going to buy have good hinges.

Second question about GPU, what was it in gen two? Also ATI Rage 128? I would like to try some games, so wonder what to expect here.

The battery. I know apple laptops work at half-speed when battery is absent or dead. Is it a thing on Titanium books? And if yes, is it possible to re-cell the battery?

And last question is lays more in philosophy perspective. What do you think about this idea? A legendary machine? 170USD is a good price for unit with normal hinges and no structural damage, only paint is missing and some scratches.

Thanks!

 

[Amethyst1]

And last question is lays more in philosophy perspective. What do you think about this idea? A legendary machine?

If you want to, go for it. TiBooks are nice and compact widescreen (3:2) machines.

170USD is a good price for unit with normal hinges and no structural damage, only paint is missing and some scratches.

I wouldn’t pay that much for a non-immaculate 550 MHz. Not even close. More like $50. But that’s me.

The battery. I know apple laptops work at half-speed when battery is absent or dead. Is it a thing on Titanium books?

Only on 800 MHz and faster models AFAIK. These downclock to 667 MHz and disable the level 3 cache if the battery is dead or missing.

Second question about GPU, what was it in gen two? Also ATI Rage 128?

16 MB ATI Mobility Radeon.

 

[eyoungren]

This may sound weird, but I decided to buy a Titanium PowerBook. It's for my collection of old and unique computers. But before I do this, I've got few questions.

Since CPU is clocked at 550mhz, looks like it's "Onyx", Gigabit TiBook. As I understood it's the second gen of titanium books. What about its hinges? I know Titanium was infamous for their weak hinges, but maybe second gen was better? The unit I'm going to buy have good hinges.

Second question about GPU, what was it in gen two? Also ATI Rage 128? I would like to try some games, so wonder what to expect here.

The battery. I know apple laptops work at half-speed when battery is absent or dead. Is it a thing on Titanium books? And if yes, is it possible to re-cell the battery?

And last question is lays more in philosophy perspective. What do you think about this idea? A legendary machine? 170USD is a good price for unit with normal hinges and no structural damage, only paint is missing and some scratches.

Thanks!

Are you in the US?

I ask because I really don't think $170 is a good deal for this. I wouldn't pay more than $50 and that would be for a good condition PowerBook with original materials included.

Someone on reddit scored a $45 Tibook 500mhz at a flea market today if that puts things in perspective for you. Very good condition.

 

[vorob]

Thank, your opinion about the price is really important, it's sobering. Alas, I live in Russia and now there are some known problems with delivery around the world, so I limited with stuff people are selling here.

I thought it was a good price. Still a rare thing, breaks down, few survive. Okay, I'll bargain and think.

 

[Dronecatcher]

The problem with the TiBook, is even if it's in good condition, every time you open that lid you hold your breath and brace yourself for those hinges to shatter.....

Having said that, every PowerPC enthusiast has to own one at some time or other - you won't be able to not get one now

But wait for something better at a lower price if you can.

It's terrible about the international situation - let's hope it's not forever.