Apple G4 17-inch - Manual (Page 71)

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C H A P T E R
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Troubleshooting
Occasionally you may have problems while working with your PowerBook. Usually it’s
because your software isn’t properly configured or you’re using applications or software
extensions that are not compatible with the version of the Mac OS (system software)
installed on your computer. Other less likely sources include problems with the Mac OS
(usually fixed by reinstalling your computer’s system software or through a software update)
and problems with your computer’s hardware, such as the memory or hard disk.
When you experience a problem with your computer, it is important to remember that there
is usually a simple and quick solution. When you encounter a problem, be aware of the
conditions that led up to the problem. Making a note of things you did before the problem
occurred will help you narrow down the possible causes of the problem and then find the
answers you need. Things to note include:
m The applications you were using when the problem occurred. Problems that occur only
with a specific application may indicate that the application is not compatible with the
version of the Mac OS installed on your computer.
m Any software that you recently installed, especially software that added items to the
System folder. Certain applications install extensions that may not be compatible with the
Classic environment.
m Any new hardware (such as additional memory or a peripheral) that you installed.
Information in This Chapter
This chapter contains solutions to problems that prevent you from working with your
computer, such as a system freeze or a computer that will not start up. You can find more
troubleshooting information in Mac Help (see page 39), on the Apple Support website
at www.apple.com/support, and in the Apple Knowledge Base at kbase.info.apple.com.