PowerBook G4 PRAM Battery Replacement

Written By: Scott Head (and 2 other contributors)

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Difficulty

Easy

Steps

Time Required

5 minutes

Introduction

PRAM batteries on the G4 PowerBooks are an aging part causing errors with the date and time among other things. You can replace the battery with just a few simple steps.

Tools

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Soldering Iron

$19.99 – $49.99

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Parts

PowerBook G4 PRAM Battery

Available for sale on Ebay

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Step 1 PRAM Battery

You will need to remove the PRAM battery assembly from your computer. Refer to our G4 PowerBook guides for how to do that specifically for your computer.

You will need to remove the PRAM battery assembly from your computer. Refer to our G4 PowerBook guides for how to do that specifically for your computer.
Make note of where the positive (+) side connects so to eliminate confusion when you try to install the new battery.
There are only two locations where you will need to solder.

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Step 2

With a soldering iron, place the tip on the first joint and hold it there until the solder liquefies allowing you to pull the battery's terminal away.

The soldering iron is extremely hot so be sure to keep your fingers away from the metal. You also want to make sure you do not touch anything other than the solder on the assembly board.

With a soldering iron, place the tip on the first joint and hold it there until the solder liquefies allowing you to pull the battery's terminal away.
The soldering iron is extremely hot so be sure to keep your fingers away from the metal. You also want to make sure you do not touch anything other than the solder on the assembly board.
Do the same for the second, soldered joint.

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Step 3

With the old battery free from the assembly, you can now install your new one.

Again, make note of where the positive (+) side is installed.

With the old battery free from the assembly, you can now install your new one.
Again, make note of where the positive (+) side is installed.

Edit

Step 4

Place the battery terminal directly on the remaining solder joint.

Using the soldering iron, apply pressure until the solder liquefies and joins with the battery terminal

Place the battery terminal directly on the remaining solder joint.
Using the soldering iron, apply pressure until the solder liquefies and joins with the battery terminal
It shouldn't take more than 5-7 seconds
Do the same thing for the other soldering joint and you are done.