G3 iBook Cooling Fan

Question

G3 iBook Cooling Fan

I have a 800 MHz G3 iBook (vintage 2002) running Mac OS 10.3.9 with all the latest updates (Security update 2007-004 V. 1.1, and QuickTime 7.1.6). In warm weather the fan comes on when I have been running for a while but it will not shut off when the computer cools down. The fan shuts off when the computer goes to sleep, but comes back on when it wakes up, even though the computer has been asleep overnight and is cool. The only way I can shut the fan off is to restart the computer. This older computer does not have accessable temperature monitors so I can only go by the feel of the case.

Is there a setting I can access (from Terminal, for example) that will shut the fan off manually or allow it to shut off when the computer cools down?

iBook G3 Mac OS X (10.3.9)

Posted on May 15, 2007 5:32 PM

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Answer 1

May 15, 2007 5:51 PM in response to Jerry Kerrisk

If you're running into heat problems, you may want to consider using a lapdesk or cooling pad.

Are all four rubber feet in place on the bottom of the iBook, and are you using it on a solid surface (not on your lap or a soft chair or sofa)?

How much RAM is installed? If the RAM isn't maximized, installing a 512 MB RAM module may help keep the processor's heat down, as will keeping enough space available (about 5 to 6 GB) on the hard drive.

Sometimes shutting down for 5 to 10 minutes will allow you to start up again and you will be able to work without the fan coming on for awhile.

If the fan comes on and stays on, you could try resetting the PMU and see if that helps.

I don't know of any Terminal command that will shut off the fan. It is supposed to shut off automatically when the processor cools. If it's not doing that, the PMU reset may be your best bet.

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Answer 2

Jul 3, 2007 11:34 AM in response to Jerry Kerrisk

I am having the reverse problem. My iBook wont turn on the cooling fan unless I do a Manual Restart or reset the PMU. but once its on it stays on forever unless I shut down. Could this be a logic board issue on my case?

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