PowerBook G3 14-inch Wallstreet PowerBook G3 14-inch Wallstreet

PowerBook G3 14.1-inch Late 1998 Explained

In the late 1990s, Apple revolutionized the world of laptop computing with its PowerBook G3 series. Among the standout models was the PowerBook G3 14.1-inch, unveiled on September 1, 1998. Priced at a premium $2,799, this powerful and stylish notebook was tailored for creative professionals and power users, boasting advanced features that set it apart from the competition.

The PowerBook G3 14.1-inch was equipped with a robust 233 MHz / 266 MHz or 300 MHz PowerPC 750 G3 processor, offering a performance that was “Pretty Damn Quick” for its time. The 14.1-inch color LCD display, 32 MB or 64 MB of RAM, and a 2 GB / 4 GB or 8 GB hard drive further contributed to its cutting-edge specifications. The base model included a 1.44 MB floppy drive, a 20x CD-ROM or DVD-ROM drive, and 2 MB ATI Rage Pro LT graphics, enhancing its versatility.

Often referred to as the “PDQ” (Pretty Damn Quick – Wallstreet II), the PowerBook G3 series followed the “Wallstreet” models and shared a similar case design. Noteworthy features included 2D/3D graphics acceleration, “zoomed video” support, and dual “hot-swappable” bays capable of holding batteries or expansion modules. The PowerBook G3 14.1-inch also boasted dual Card Bus compatible PC card slots and the “fn” key, creating a numerical keyboard for faster data entry.

However, what set the “PDQ” series apart was its simplification. Apple addressed inventory and supply issues by standardizing the motherboard design to use a 66 MHz bus and streamlining the display sizes to a single 14.1-inch option. This move, executed in a “Pretty Damn Quick” manner, showcased Apple’s commitment to resolving challenges swiftly.

Despite its hefty price tag, the PowerBook G3 14.1-inch gained widespread acclaim and became a preferred choice for creative professionals and power users. Its success, however, was short-lived, with Apple discontinuing the model on May 10, 1999, just nine months after its launch. Today, 25 years later, the PowerBook G3 14.1-inch Late 1998 serves as a nostalgic artifact from the early days of laptop computing.

While the PowerBook G3 14.1-inch may appear primitive by contemporary standards, it was undeniably a cutting-edge machine in its time. Its legacy is a testament to Apple’s dedication to innovation and design. As we reflect on this iconic piece of technology, it’s essential to acknowledge its role in shaping the landscape of portable computing.

The PowerBook G3 14.1-inch Late 1998 remains a symbol of Apple’s bold strides in the late 1990s. Its blend of power, style, and innovation left an indelible mark on the laptop industry. Today, as we navigate the advanced landscape of modern laptops, taking a nostalgic journey back to the “PDQ” era reminds us of the foundations that paved the way for the sleek and powerful devices we use today.

PowerBook G3 Mid 1998
Source: wikipedia.org – PowerBook G3 Mid 1998

PowerBook G3 14.1-inch Late 1998 Details

IntroducedSeptember 1, 1998
DiscontinuedMay 10, 1999
Model Identifier406
Model NumberM4753
Order NumberM7109LL/A
M7110LL/A
M7111LL/A
M7310LL/A
Original Price$2,799
$3,499
$4,499
$4,999
ColorsDark Grey
Weight7.8 Ibs.
3.538 KG
Dimensions2” H x 12.7” W x 10.4” D
5.08 cm H x 32.25 cm W x 26.41 cm D

PowerBook G3 14.1-inch PDQ Tech Specs

Processor

ProcessorPowerPC 750 G3
Processor Speed233 MHz
266 MHz
300 MHz
Architecture32-bit
Number of Cores1
System Bus66 MHz
Cache64 KB L1
512 KB L2 (233 MHz)
1 MB backside L2 (266 MHz & 300 MHz)
CoprocessorBuilt-in FPU

Storage & Media

Storage2 GB
4 GB
8 GB
Media1 – 1.44 MB floppy
1 – 20x CD-ROM or DVD-ROM (Tray-loading)

Memory

Built-in Memory32 MB
64 MB
Maximum Memory192 MB (Apple)
512 MB (Actual)
Memory Slots2 – PC-100 144-pin SO-DIMM
Minimum Speed10 ns
ROMN/A
Interleaving SupportNo

Display

Built-in Display14.1″ Color TFT Active Matrix Display
Resolutions640 x 480
800 x 600
1024 x 768

Graphics

Graphics CardATI Rage Pro LT
Graphics Memory2 MB
4 MB
Display Connection1 – VGA
1 – S-Video
Display ModesVideo mirroring only
External ResolutionNone

Expansion

Expansion Slots2 – Type II or 1 – Type III PC Card
Hard Drive InterfaceATA-2
Bays2 – PowerBook Media Bays (1998)

Connections

Wi-FiNone
Ethernet10BASE-T
Modem56k
BluetoothNone
Infrared1 – 4 Mbps
ADB1 – External
1 – Internal for Trackpad
Serial1
SCSI1 – HDI-30
Floppy PortNone
Audio In1 – 3.5-mm analog input jack
1 – Built-in microphone
Audio Out1 – 3.5-mm analog output jack
2 – Built-in speakers
Display1 – VGA
1 – S-Video
Security Slot1 – Kensington cable lock

Keyboard and trackpad

KeyboardBuilt-in Full-size 77-key (U.S.) or 78-key (ISO) incl. 12 function and 4 arrow keys
TrackpadBuilt-in Solid-state trackpad (Tap, double-tap, and drag)

Software

Original OSMac OS 8.1
Maximum OSMac OS X 10.2.8
FirmwareMacintosh ROM
Bundled SoftwareNone

Power

System Battery49 Wh Lithium-Ion (M6385 & M4685)
Backup BatteryPowerBook G3 Backup Battery (922-3380)
Battery Life3.5 hours on one battery
7 hours on two batteries
Maximum Continuous Power45 W
Line Voltage100-240 V AC
Power Adapter45 W AC (M4402)

Further Reading and References

Disclaimer: The data presented in this article is under continuous development and has been manually collected from various sources based on their availability. The author of this article may revise this dataset as additional research is conducted and reviewed. Please note that the information is provided “as is” and “as available” without express or implied warranties. The author cannot be held responsible for any omissions, inaccuracies, or errors in the published information. Any warranties relating to this information are hereby disclaimed.

Last updated: January 12, 2024