Apple Event: May 7th at 7 am PT
I am trying to use a PowerMac G4 Digital Audio with an Apple HD Cinema Display (23-inch). I bought the Belkin connector so I could connect ADC to DVI. When I start up the Mac, I get the startup screen, gray with Apple logo and spinning startup ball, but then it goes dark. Any idea what the problem might be? Could it be a video card issue? Thanks!
I have little knowldedge on this but wasn't there a recent discussion on power issues in this configuration? Also try holding down teh shift key while starting up so it starts in Safe Mode. If that works it isn't a long-term solution but at least it would help narrow down the issue.
Japamac's really the authority on video cards for these old Macs - you can't do better.
If I were staying on the cheap, I think I'd go for the GeForce 4 - there's a 64 MB variety with ADC and DVI connexions and a 32 MB one with ADC and VGA (I think I'm right on that). The Radeon 9800 is definitely better, and the nVidia 6800 is better yet. It's the one I use (on Japamac's recommendation). Both have DVI connexions and VGA (which usually works - there are occasional anomalies - pay attention to the seller's comments).
I've had good luck with eBay video cards. I like the Apple ADC monitors,too, but they are better purchased locally - where you can see them work and inspect the stand: they don't ship worth a darn.
Regards from the house of Too Many Macs... Jon
P.S. You might try Japamac's Radeon 9000. I just found one lurking in a dark corner, and plugged it in. Works pretty well, too. There are several varieties of them, too, with different port configurations, 64 or 128 MB, and prices from $25-75 on eBay.
Thanks all. Will go for the 9000 and keep my eye open for a good deal on an old Apple display. Would look better anyway...
If you ever use OS 9, you will need a driver update for use with the Radeon 9000.
The update is unavailable, but I have a copy linked here:
I've ordered a 9000 Pro that will be here in a couple of days. Having a hard time finding an old Apple monitor that is not beat to crap and is inexpensive. Made a verbal deal for one on craigslist, good shape (supposedly) and cheap, but the guy backed out of two appointments... and I don't need that aggravation. I'm gonna keep looking, but is there any new monitor that work work well with the DA, 16:10, doesn't have to be big but it should be relatively inexpensive? Thanks!
Made a verbal deal for one on craigslist, good shape (supposedly) and cheap, but the guy backed out of two appointments... and I don't need that aggravation.
My experience with Craigslist is that there are more flakes than in a Snow Storm! 😉
I;d check Goodwill & Salvage joints, you can get them for a song! 🙂
Any of these 1440x900 19" monitors will work with the DVI of the Radeon 9000.
A monitor like this has the right conditions (for me).
BTW, the 9000 will support 1920x1200 displays like the 23" Apple Cinema Display (DVI Aluminum or ADC Acrylic).
It will also give you some 16:9 support in some displays smaller than 23".
Got the 9000 card, and it works great with the 23" HD Cinema Display, at least for now... will switch to another monitor as soon as I find the one I want.
Now looking to swap out the 30 GB HD. Would something like this work? Thanks!
http://eshop.macsales.com/item/Western%20Digital/WD1600AAJB/
That drive should be fine in any G4, but on the DA it'll be limited to 128/132 GB.
That limit is the case with any HD in the DA, isn't it? Thanks.
Yes, due to the 40 bit LBA, except if you have an IDE 133 card in it, it also doesn't apply to Firewire drives or SATA cards.
Or Intech's ATA Hi-Cap...
That 160GB Western Digital drive is a very good drive.
Quiet, cool running, reliable and no issues running in a 128GB capped system.
I have 3 of them............
Trying to use PowerMac G4 with HD Cinema Display
