Apple releases battery firmware for PowerBook G4 (15-inch Double-Layer SD) and some earlier PowerBooks

Apple has released a PowerBook G4 Battery Updater that improves the performance of batteries that may develop short run times.

This battery firmware update is required for PowerBook G4 (15-inch Double-Layer SD) computers. If your PowerBook can use this update, it will be available through Software Update (called "Aluminum PowerBook (15-inch) Battery Update").

To determine whether your PowerBook needs this update or not, go to the Apple menu, choose About this Mac, then click "More Info." In the Hardware Overview section, locate the line that starts with "Machine Model," then consult the following:

• PowerBook5,2: Install updater only if you bought a replacement battery after September 2005.
• PowerBook5,4: Install updater only if you bought a replacement battery after September 2005.
• PowerBook5,6: Install updater only if you bought a replacement battery after September 2005.
• PowerBook5,8: Yes, install updater

The update process will take about 15 minutes and must not be interrupted

Apple says that after applying this update, you'll want to calibrate your battery, even if you had done so before applying the update.

For further instruction, see Knowledge Base article #303035.

Again, the release is available through Software Update or as a 400 KB standaone download.

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