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How can I upgrade PowerPC PowerBook G4 to intel?

My brother's old PowerBook G4 was recently passed down to me since he passed a couple weeks ago. I am in college now and thought it was a good idea to use it for school. I found alternate programs that don't need intel processors; however, some programs required for my classes need intel processors. I was wondering if I can upgrade my new PowerPC's hardware to upgrade to later software without losing important data and a way that doesn't cause problems. Is it even possible the change the hardware?

Specs:

1.33 GHz PowerPC G4 processor

1.25 GB RAM


Thanks in advanced.

PowerBook, Mac OS X (10.5.8)

Posted on May 6, 2013 2:16 PM

Reply
15 replies

May 6, 2013 2:18 PM in response to NecroFabulous

You can't upgrade the PowerPC-based computer to an Intel-based Mac because you have to replace the whole computer. Intel-based Macs are completely different than PowerPC-based computers: they use different processors (so you need another logic board), they use other firmware (EFI instead of Open Firmware), they have different chips (PRAM instead of NVRAM)... If you want an Intel Mac, you have to buy a Intel-based Mac

May 7, 2013 5:49 PM in response to NecroFabulous

When you add up the cost of what it would take (if it were possible) to convert a G4 to Intel, you would probably be over the cost of buying a used Intel MacBook Air or Pro anyway.


Apple is selling refurbished MacBook Airs for $849 right now. That means older Intel Mac laptops are selling for much, much less than that. And any of them would be way, way faster overall (CPU, graphics, ports, drive) than if you had converted a PowerPC to an Intel.

May 9, 2013 11:32 AM in response to NecroFabulous

I'm currently using Safari as my web browser. Decided not to use TenFourFox, or old versions of Firefox and Chrome.

I've been looking for a Frostwire download, but the latest one I was able to find was 4.18.1. It only stays at "starting connection" when my internet connection is perfectly fine. Any later update will ask for Java update 1.6, which apparently isn't compatible. Does Apple even allow those kind of programs?

And as for document creating programs, I use OpenOffice. It's not an exact mirror of MS Office, but it gets the job done. Especially for a college student with a low budget.

May 9, 2013 11:52 AM in response to NecroFabulous

NecroFabulous wrote:


...some programs required for my classes need intel processors...


MichaelLAX wrote:


...tell us what apps you need to run that require Intel. Maybe there are some other solutions for you.



NecroFabulous wrote:


I'm currently using Safari as my web browser. Decided not to use TenFourFox, or old versions of Firefox and Chrome.

I've been looking for a Frostwire download, but the latest one I was able to find was 4.18.1. It only stays at "starting connection" when my internet connection is perfectly fine. Any later update will ask for Java update 1.6, which apparently isn't compatible. Does Apple even allow those kind of programs?

And as for document creating programs, I use OpenOffice. It's not an exact mirror of MS Office, but it gets the job done. Especially for a college student with a low budget.



I am confused...


You need Intel to run an internet browser and OpenOffice?

May 9, 2013 9:54 PM in response to NecroFabulous

To the OP...


Its apparent you need to run apps which require an Intel.. No reason to keep harping on it.. Just get an Intel Mac and you will be able to run all the apps your little heart desires.. While PPC is great for everyday use and I own a few myself, the writing is now on the wall.. even everyday apps are going Intel.


I think this thread has been answered now..

May 9, 2013 10:03 PM in response to romko23

romko23 wrote:


...I think this thread has been answered now..

The kid is in college and got a 'hand me down" computer from his other brother!


Why don't you send him some Ukrainian Hryvnia User uploaded fileand he can purchase a brand new MacBook; or


ship him one from the Kiev Apple Store (I understand that the Lviv Apple Store has been temporarily shut down due to water damage from a broken pipe in the ceiling...)!


Now this thread is REALLY over!

How can I upgrade PowerPC PowerBook G4 to intel?

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