This article provides instructions for replacing the SCSI hard drive cable in a Power Mac G4 (Digital Audio/Gigabit Ethernet).

Be sure to follow the instructions in this sheet carefully. Failure to follow these instructions could result in damage to your equipment and may void your warranty.

Replacing the SCSI drive cable requires five basic steps:

1. Turn off the computer.

2. Open the computer.

3. Remove the installed SCSI cable.

4. Install the replacement SCSI cable.

5. Close the computer.
Note : HTML/QuickTime video versions of the instructions are available at http://www.info.apple.com/installparts .

The only tool required for this procedure is a flat-blade screwdriver.

Electrostatic Discharge (ESD)

Static electricity, a normal and natural phenomenon, builds up on your body as you walk around. You experience an electrostatic discharge (ESD) when you touch an object and feel a spark. ESD can cause damage to the internal components of your computer. Avoid walking around while performing this procedure, and follow the instructions carefully when you are asked to discharge static electricity.

Opening the Computer

Warning: Always turn off your computer before opening it to avoid damaging its internal components.

1. Place your computer on a clean, flat surface.

2. If you think your computer is in sleep, press the power button on the front of the computer to wake it.

3. Shut down your computer by opening the Special menu and choosing Shut Down. Then wait five minutes for the computer's internal components to cool down.

4. If you attached a security cable through the computer's lockable cover latch, remove the cable.

5. Unplug all other cables from the computer except the power cord.

6. Touch the metal PCI access covers on the back of the computer.

Important: To avoid electrostatic discharge, always ground yourself by touching the port access covers before you touch any parts or install any components inside the computer. To avoid static electricity building back up in your body, do not walk around the room until you have completed your installation and closed the computer.

7. Unplug the power cord.

8. Lift the latch on the right side access panel.

9. Gently lower the access panel until it lies flat. To avoid scratching the case, lower the panel onto a soft, clean cloth.

Warning: If you see any lights glowing on the main logic board, the computer has not been shut down. Close the side access panel and shut down the computer before proceeding.

Removing the Installed Cable

1. Disconnect the SCSI drive cable from the SCSI card.

2. Disconnect the power cord bundle from the logic board.

3. Using a flat-blade screwdriver, pry the SCSI cable terminator from the top of the SCSI drive. Important: The terminator is encased in a black plastic holder that is attached to the hard drive with double-stick foam tape. Pry the terminator up carefully making sure the tape remains on the terminator holder.


4. Disconnect the SCSI cable from the SCSI drive, and remove the cable from the computer. Note: Dispose of this cable; do not return it to Apple.

Installing the Replacement Cable

1. Connect the replacement SCSI cable's connector nearest the cable's terminator to the SCSI drive.

2. Remove the protective covering on the terminator and press the terminator firmly to the top of the SCSI drive.

3. Connect the other end of the cable to the SCSI card.

4. Reconnect the power cord bundle to the logic board.

Closing the Computer

1. Raise the side access panel, lift the latch, and press the panel against the case until it snaps securely into place.

2. Reconnect all cables and restart your computer.
Warning : Never turn on your computer unless all of its internal and external parts are in place and it is closed. Operating the computer when it is open or missing parts can damage your computer or cause injury.