How to factory reset dead Apple iBook G3/366 (Firewire/Clamshell) to sell?

I have owned this Apple iBook G3/366 (Firewire/Clamshell) Special Edition Graphite M6411 since 1999-2000. Unfortunately, the computer has no power --- battery dead and YoYo power adapter doesn't work. I wanted to clean the hard drive before I sell it but I don't know if that's possible. Not that I can remember what's on it but I'd prefer to sell it clean.


Can anyone suggest or offer advice on what I should do? I tried all the troubleshooting ideas and none brought it back to life. Or is there a compatible third party inexpensive adapter that I could purchase that might power it back on? Thank you!

Earlier Mac models

Posted on Mar 2, 2025 3:24 PM

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Posted on Mar 3, 2025 5:41 AM

Without power to the iBook, the only way to erase/wipe the internal hard disk would be to open the computer and remove the drive. This is not quite easy. You may find details if you search for the computer model and something like disassembly or replace hard drive. The removed hard drive can then be connected to a universal USB bare-drive adapter, which in turn would be connected to the USB port of another Mac (or PC, with the appropriate software) for wiping.


It would be easier with a working power adapter. If you take a look at the text on the M7332 (a magnifying glass may help), you will find that it has a DC output of 24 V at 1.875 A (max) = 45 W. It has a 9 mm outside diameter DC plug. This is a special plug (with an internal pin that looks like a 3.5 mm stereo plug), not to be confused with a standard barrel-style plug. You may be able to find a used power adapter via an online auction site, but the condition would be unknown.


A normal/universal power adapter with a 24 V DC output (at approx. 2 A) with a standard barrel DC plug cannot be used directly. A special adapter piece converting a standard barrel plug output has been known to exist (a web search for something like 9 mm iBook DC power plug adapter?).

18 replies

Apr 12, 2025 4:25 PM in response to vcppp

Since this topic is old and resolved, I think you should start a new topic, so it will get more attention and others can also provide their insight and suggestions. It will help if you provide the model iMac to which you want to transfer the files and the OS that it's running. Do the Korg (DOS-formatted) SCSI hard drives have a 50-pin interface like this?


There are a number of hardware variables to consider for file transfer and you don't want to spend too much on ad hoc peripherals. Networking the iMac with an older, SCSI-based Mac might be the most effective method.

Apr 13, 2025 11:13 AM in response to Jeff

Wow, that was fast! Thanks, Jeff! Very gracious of you. Great idea to create a new post. I'll do that.

Just FYI until I get it posted: All parts of the system are quite old because they all play nice with each other and a bunch of legacy software/hardware I have.

I've attached screenshots of the cables, OS, and Logic version. The synth is a Korg Trinty V3 with all options.


EXTERNAL SCSI ports

OS

LOGIC VERSION

CABLE INTO TRINITY


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How to factory reset dead Apple iBook G3/366 (Firewire/Clamshell) to sell?

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