The PowerBook G3, 3400, 5300 and 190 all use the same shape battery. Are the batteries interchangeable between the PowerBooks?

PowerBook G3

The PowerBook G3 battery, model number M4895, it is a Lithium Ion (LiIon) 47 watt-hour battery. The G3 will recognize and charge all three models of batteries, M4895, M5139 and M3254. However, the battery life with the other batteries will be much less than when using the intended battery.

PowerBook 3400

The PowerBook 3400 battery, model number M5139, is a Lithium Ion (LiIon) 32 watt-hour battery. The 3400 will recognize and charge all three models of batteries, M4895, M5139 and M3254. The battery life when using the M3254 battery will be much less than when using the intended battery.

In order for the PowerBook 3400 to be able to charge the PowerBook G3 battery, M4895, you will need to upgrade to Mac OS 8.1. The Mac OS 8.1 update includes the necessary software that will allow the PowerBook 3400 to recognize and charge PowerBook G3 batteries. If you are using Mac OS 8.0 (or older), you will not be able to charge the battery.

PowerBook 5300 and 190

The PowerBook 5300 and 190 battery, model number M3254, is a Nickel Metal Hydride (NiHM) 29 watt-hour (approximate) battery. The PowerBook 5300 and 190 will only recognize their own battery. They do not have the circuitry to be able to recognize and charge a Lithium Ion (LiIon) battery.