Dual G4 Macintosh

Dual G4

This page is dedicated to providing an extensive repository of information related to the Dual 1.42 GHz PowerPC G4 Macintosh computer. Here, you'll discover a detailed compendium of insights, experiences, and accumulated knowledge that I've gathered over the years regarding this impressive piece of computing history.

Whether you're looking for technical specifications, user experiences, performance benchmarks, or historical context, this page serves as a comprehensive guide. It includes:

  • Technical Specifications: Detailed breakdowns of hardware capabilities, from the dual processors to memory configurations and expandability options.
  • User Experiences: Personal accounts of using the PowerPC G4, including tips and tricks for optimizing performance and troubleshooting common issues.
  • Software Compatibility: Information on which operating systems and applications run best on this model, along with any known workarounds or patches for software issues.
  • Upgrades and Modifications: Guides on how to upgrade hardware components or modify the system for better performance or compatibility with newer software.
  • Historical Context: Insights into the era when this computer was at the forefront of technology, its role in the evolution of the Macintosh line, and its impact on the computing world.

This resource is not just a 'brain dump'; it's a carefully curated collection designed to assist both new enthusiasts and seasoned professionals in understanding, maintaining, and appreciating the legacy of the Dual 1.42 GHz PowerPC G4 Macintosh. If you're passionate about vintage computing or merely curious about how computers like these shaped today's technology, you're in the right place.

Dual-1.42GHz Power Mac G4

Dual G4 Computer Layout

Computer Configuration:

  • Processor: Dual 1.42 Ghz PowerPC G4
    2 MB L3 cache per processor
  • System: Mac OS 10.5.8
  • Memory: 2 GB DDR SDRAM

From Mid-2003 to 2011, this was my primary home computer. I installed three additional hard drive so there are 4 Hard drives in the computer: 150GB (Samsung), 250GB (Seagate), and two 250GB (Western Digital).

I use the following names for my drives: Misc, audio, audio2, Haunted, Aspen, WDW, KBF. I named one of the drives Aspen after one of the network computers that I use to use at Acclaim Technology.

The reason why I needed a lot of hard drives was because I use to record radio stations in the Boston area, in particular Howie Carr and The Boston Red Sox on WEEI. I have since stop doing daily recordings, due to a lack of interest, and just the amount of maintaince that is required.

I don't use the computer that much any more. It is still sitting on the floor in my home office but not plug in or connected to any monitor. When I do want to use it, it would be a production show since I would have to hook up the monitor and find a USB Mouse and Keyboard. I use to connect the computer to the network to transfer any files, but I now find it much faster if I use a USB thumb drive to copy files.

The image on the right shows all the hard drives I have in the computer and the various partition names that I assigned them. You can click on the image for a larger version of the hard drive layout and the different drives that I used. It is amazing how little storage I was able to deal with on the computer for so long. Today, storage goes fast because of higher quality of photos and videos.