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Power Macintosh G4 Q&A - Revised April 21, 2009
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Can the Power Mac G4 run Windows?
The Power Mac G4 series is capable of running Windows through emulation using a program like Microsoft Virtual PC 7, but it cannot boot Windows or run Windows via virtualization like the Intel-based Macs.
If you need a system capable of running Windows, you would be best served with an Intel-based Mac or a Windows PC.
For more on running Windows on Intel-based Macs, please also check out the Windows on Mac Q&A.
Can the Power Mac G4 run Linux?
Yes. Adelie Linux is supported on the Power Mac G4.
Does software that requires an ADB-based "dongle" work with the Power Mac G4?
For readers who may not be familar with the term "dongle" -- a dongle is a small cable that ships with some high-end, expensive page layout and CAD software packages. Upon starting the software, the computer searches for the dongle and makes sure that it is plugged into the applicable port on the back of the computer. If it is not found, then the software will not operate. Since hardware is considerably more difficult to copy and distribute than software, the dongle provides a fairly high-level of copy protection, discouraging casual software piracy.
According to documentation that was available at the time, ADB dongles will not work with the Power Mac G4, but a USB dongle should work, and to "contact the vendor for further information". USB dongles that are designed to work with the Power Mac G4 do indeed operate properly. Fortunately, this became less and less of an issue as companies that sold software requiring a dongle started providing USB-based dongles with the software.
Typically, ADB-to-USB based adapters do not work with dongles, so for legacy use, those who continue to need software with an ADB-based dongle would be wise to maintain an old Mac with ADB ports.
The "Blue & White" Power Macintosh G3 models might be of particular interest as these are the only Macs to offer both an ADB port and USB ports onboard.
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