Getting files off a pre-USB PowerBook G3

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Level 1

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Getting files off a pre-USB PowerBook G3

Hi,

I am trying to get files off of my old G3 which I haven't used in years and transfer them to my MBP. Unfortunately, the G3 is pre-USB and I haven't been successful with any other connection (I tried a cross-link patch cable which someone recommended, but neither computer recognizes the other). I don't have internet access for the G3, so that route is currently out of the question. I guess a USB PC card is the way to go, but I'm worried that the G3 will be missing the necessary driver.

Or is there a way to go via a different cable after all?

Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

Rob

PowerBook G3, Mac OS X (10.5.6)

Posted on Jan 14, 2009 11:19 AM

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Answer 1

a brody

Level 10

85,366 points

Jan 14, 2009 11:23 AM in response to Robvon

Welcome to Apple Discussions!

See my FAQ*:

http://www.macmaps.com/network9X.html

- * Links to my pages may give me compensation.

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Answer 2

jpl

Level 7

28,285 points

Jan 14, 2009 12:22 PM in response to Robvon

Robvon,

If networking your two computers is not successful, here are a few more suggestions.

1. Remove the HD (very easy to do since you apparently have the Powerbook G3 Series M4753 "Wallstreet"), then remove the HD from the HD caddy, and place the bare HD in a USB or FireWire 2.5" HD enclosure and connect it to your MBP. You can also use a USB adapter for the HD like this one:
http://eshop.macsales.com/item/Other%20World%20Computing/USB2PATA/

Disassembly guide:
http://www.ifixit.com/Guide/Mac/PowerBook-G3-Wallstreet/3

2. Buy an inexpensive USB PC card, then connect a USB HD or USB flash drive to the USB PC card. If you wish to go this route, please post back with what version OS you are running on the Wallstreet. There can be driver issues and USB PC card issues.

3. Buy a PC Card Adapter like this:
http://www.flash-memory-store.com/sanpccarad.html

Then use a suitably sized flash memory card for transferring files; no drivers needed on the Wallstreet. You will need a way to read the flash memory card to your MBP; USB flash memory card readers are the usual solution.

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