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PowerBook G4 (17-inch) Troubleshooting - 19
Hardware Symptom Charts
System shuts down intermittently
Important: This issue can be a result of not using the 65W power adapter with the
PowerBook G4 (17-inch) computers. Confirm with the customer which adapter they were
using when having this problem. The adapter can be identified by 65W in the name and
markings, and the metal securing-stud on the plug connector.
1. Disconnect all external peripherals and eject any PC card.
2. Make sure a known good fully charged battery is fully inserted. Check both battery
latches are fully engaged and are not broken or getting caught before fully catching.
Check battery connection to logic board.
3. Make a visual inspection of the battery connector in the battery bay. Make sure all
blades are visible and not bend. If damaged replace the battery connector.
4. Make sure system is not over heating, the air vents are clear and unit was not used on
a soft surface.
5. Check that the fan cables are connected and the fans are operational.
6. Make sure all feet are still on the system bottom.
7. Check that the thermal material between the heat exchanger and logic board is in
contact with both by unscrewing the logic board screws and gently pulling up on the
left side of the board to verify resistance caused by adhesion from the thermal
material. If not, new thermal materials for the processor, control ASIC, and video chip
must be reinstalled (see Logic Board Take Apart chapter).
8. Remove the battery and connect known-good 65W power adapter (661-1798) and
power cord or plug to a known-good power outlet; make sure the DC plug is firmly
inserted. The DC plug should light up, if not, replace DC-in board.
9. Verify DC-in board cable is securely connected and cable shows no signs of wear.
10. Try known-good DC-in board.
11. Replace the logic board.
System shuts down almost immediately after startup
1. Disconnect all external peripherals and eject any PC card.
2. Make sure a known good battery is fully inserted and is charged.
3. Check battery connection to logic board.
4. Replace the logic board.