Power Adapter for iBook G3--please help.

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Power Adapter for iBook G3--please help.

The original power adapter that came with my iBook G3 no longer works. My friend has a similar iBook with an old power adapter, and when I plug in my computer using this adapter, it turn on and works fine. I ordered a new Mac laptop adapter through a computer store--when I plugged in my iBook using the new one, it would begin to start up, the adapter would make a faint whirring sound and then a slight fizzle, after which the computer would turn off. Other identical brand-new adapters tried afterwards at the computer store wouldn't even begin to start the computer.

I now want to order a replacement adapter directly from Apple but am hesitant because the same thing might happen.

The original adapter was 45W, the new ones I tried were 65W. But other users of this forum have suggested that doesn't matter so long as the plug fits. My computer still turns on using my friend's adapter. Any advice would be appreciated.

Posted on Nov 19, 2009 2:52 AM

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Answer 1

Nov 19, 2009 8:49 AM in response to Jack Wolf

Hi, Jack. Welcome to Apple Discussions.

It doesn't matter if you use a 65-watt adapter. Apple carries just the 65-watt model because it works with either an iBook or PowerBook, so they only have to stock one model. (The PowerBook requires the 65-watt model.)

In the past, I've ordered what looked to be an Apple adapter from a third party online. They SAID it was an Apple adapter and that it was warranted through Apple. I suspect that it was a counterfeit adapter, but Apple replaced it for me when it didn't work after a couple of months.

So, if you want an Apple adapter, it may be a good idea to buy it from an Apple Store, or the online Apple Store.

http://store.apple.com/us/product/M8943LL/A

Good luck with it.

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Answer 2

Jack Wolf Author

Level 1

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Nov 21, 2009 11:50 PM in response to Ronda Wilson

Thanks, Ronda, for clearing that up. I'll just order one from the Apple store and hope it works. I'm guessing the adapters the computer store ordered for me were fake.

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Answer 3

Nov 22, 2009 12:12 AM in response to Jack Wolf

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Answer 4

Nov 28, 2009 12:56 PM in response to Ronda Wilson

So you are sure a 45W adaptor works just fine on a iBook 3G even though the profile says 65W. I've been using the 45W for weeks with no problems and the adaptor doesn't seem to be very hot to the touch. Just making sure. Thanks!

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Answer 5

Nov 28, 2009 1:03 PM in response to Randy Fansler

Yes. A 45-watt adapter is what came with them.

What "profile" says 65W? You mean the one at the online Apple Store?

As I said, they only carry the one model because it works with both iBooks and PowerBooks, but the 45-watt model is the one that came with iBooks.

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Answer 6

Jan Hedlund

Level 7

24,235 points

Nov 28, 2009 3:08 PM in response to Randy Fansler

You could confirm the information provided by Ronda by having a look at the text printed on the iBook. If it contains something like 24Vdc and 1.875A that would mean 45 W.

Jan

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