In the fast-paced world of technology, certain innovations stand out as milestones, marking significant leaps in performance, design, and functionality. The year 2004 witnessed one such breakthrough with the introduction of the Apple PowerBook G4 17-inch Mid 2004 (Aluminum), a notebook computer that not only redefined the standards of its time but also left an indelible mark on the landscape of computing.
The PowerBook G4 17-inch Mid 2004 was a flagship offering from Apple, representing the pinnacle of performance and portability in the realm of notebook computing. Launched on April 19, 2004, with a starting price of $2,799, it boasted cutting-edge features that set it apart from its contemporaries.
At the heart of the PowerBook G4 17-inch was a 1.5 GHz PowerPC 7447a G4 processor, delivering robust computing power to handle demanding tasks with ease. Coupled with 512 MB of RAM and an 80 GB hard drive, this powerhouse offered seamless multitasking and ample storage capacity for users’ needs.
The notebook featured a stunning 17-inch TFT display, providing users with an immersive viewing experience for both work and entertainment. Backed by 64 MB ATI Mobility Radeon 9700 graphics, it delivered vibrant visuals and smooth performance, making it ideal for graphic design, multimedia editing, and gaming.
In terms of connectivity, the PowerBook G4 17-inch Mid 2004 was ahead of its time. Equipped with Bluetooth 1.1 and an AirPort Extreme Card, it offered seamless wireless connectivity for a range of peripherals and networking needs. Additionally, the inclusion of a FireWire “800” port and a slot-loading 2x DVD-R/CD-RW “SuperDrive” ensured versatile connectivity and convenient data access.
Apple’s commitment to enhancing user experience extended to the software bundled with the PowerBook G4. It came pre-installed with iLife ’04, a suite of digital lifestyle applications that empowered users to unleash their creativity. From managing digital music with iTunes to creating Hollywood-style DVDs with iDVD, the software suite offered a comprehensive toolkit for digital enthusiasts.
Despite its short lifespan, the PowerBook G4 17-inch Mid 2004 left a lasting impression on users and enthusiasts alike. Its sleek design, powerful performance, and innovative features cemented its status as a cult classic in the annals of computing history.
As we reflect on 20 years since its introduction, the PowerBook G4 17-inch remains a nostalgic reminder of the technological prowess and visionary thinking that defined an era. Though subsequent iterations have surpassed it in terms of performance and capabilities, its legacy endures as a testament to Apple’s relentless pursuit of innovation.
PowerBook G4 17-inch Mid 2004 Details
| Introduced | April 19, 2004 – 20 years ago |
| Discontinued | January 31, 2005 – 19 years ago |
| Time on the Market | 287 days (9 months) |
| Model Identifier | PowerBook5,5 |
| Model Number | A1085 |
| EMC | 1983A |
| Order Number | M9462LL/A |
| Original Price | $2,799 |
| Colors | Aluminum |
| Weight | 6.9 Ibs. 3.129 KG |
| Dimensions | 1” H x 15.4” W x 10.2” D 2.54 cm H x 39.11 cm W x 25.9 cm D |
PowerBook G4 Tech Specs
Processor
| Processor | PowerPC 7447a G4 |
| Processor Speed | 1.5 GHz |
| Architecture | 32-bit |
| Number of Cores | 1 |
| System Bus | 167 MHz |
| Cache | 64 KB L1 512 KB on-chip L2 |
Storage & Media
| Storage | 80 GB – 4200 rpm or 5400 rpm |
| Media | 1 – 2x DVD-R/CD-RW “SuperDrive” slot-loading drive |
Memory
| Built-in Memory | 512 MB |
| Maximum Memory | 2 GB |
| Memory Slots | 1 – PC-2700 DDR333 200-pin SO-DIMM |
| Interleaving Support | No |
Display
| Built-in Display | 17″ Color TFT Display |
| Resolutions | 640 x 480 800 x 600 1024 x 768 1152 x 720 1440 x 900 (native) |
Graphics
| Graphics Card | ATI Mobility Radeon 9700 |
| Graphics Memory | 64 MB 128 MB |
| Display Connection | 1 – DVI 1 – S-Video |
| Display Modes | Dual display extended and video mirroring |
| External Resolution | Up to 2048 by 1536 pixels |
Expansion
| Expansion Slots | 1 – Single Type I or II |
| Hard Drive Interface | Ultra ATA/100 (ATA-6) |
| Bays | None |
Connections
| Wi-Fi | AirPort Extreme Card 802.11b/g |
| Ethernet | 10/100/1000BASE-T (RJ-45) |
| Modem | 56k |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 1.1 |
| Infrared | None |
| ADB | 1 – Internal for Trackpad |
| FireWire | 1 – 400 Mbps 1 – 800 Mbps |
| SCSI | None |
| USB | 2 – 480 Mbps |
| Audio In | 1 – 3.5-mm analog input jack 1 – Built-in microphone |
| Audio Out | 1 – 3.5-mm analog output jack 2 – Built-in speakers |
| Display | 1 – DVI 1 – S-Video |
| Security Slot | 1 – Kensington cable lock |
Keyboard and trackpad
| Keyboard | Built-in Full-size 78-key (U.S.) or 79-key (ISO) incl. 12 function and 4 arrow keys |
| Trackpad | Built-in Solid-state trackpad (Tap, double-tap, and drag) |
Software
| Original OS | Mac OS X 10.3.3 |
| Later OS | Mac OS X 10.3.4 Mac OS X 10.4 |
| Maximum OS | Mac OS X 10.5.8 |
| Firmware | Macintosh ROM |
| Bundled Software | Mac OS X 10.3 Panther iChat Safari Sherlock Address Book QuickTime iLife (includes iTunes, iPhoto, iMovie, Garageband, and iDVD) iSync iCal DVD Player Classic environment Acrobat Reader Art Directors Toolkit EarthLink TotalAccess (includes 30 days of free dial-up service with Earthlink activation) FileMaker Pro Trial GraphicConverter OmniGraffle OmniOutliner QuickBooks for Mac New User Edition Zinio Reader Developer Tools Apple Hardware Test |
Power
| System Battery | 58 Wh Lithium Ion Prismatic |
| Backup Battery | PowerBook G4 (17-inch) Backup Battery (922 – 6395) |
| Battery Life | Up to 4.5 hours |
| Maximum Continuous Power | Unknown |
| Line Voltage | 100-240 V AC |
| Power Adapter | 65 W Apple Portable Power Adapter |
Further Reading and References
- PowerBook G4 (17-inch): Technical Specifications – Apple Support
- Apple Introduces New PowerBook G4 Line – Apple Newsroom
- PowerBook G4 – Wikipedia
- 17″ PowerBook G4 (Mid 2004) – Low End Mac
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.
