Old topic but I see that noone properly addressed the issue . . . Chris wrote: > <You HAVE to modify your firmware to use Linux on Old World Macs.>
Well, the thing is, you _can't_ modify your Old World Mac's firmware, it's located on a read-only ROM module. That's the fundamental difference between Old World and New World Macs. New World have a small(ish) boot ROM located in rewritable firmware, with the bulk of the Mac ROM (if used) located on your boot storage device. Old World have a large(ish) hardware ROM (64K to 4MB, depending on the Mac) containing the core of the Mac OS toolbox as well as machine-specific hardware support code. All Macs with built-in USB are New World, those without are Old World. FYI, the presence of USB is just an indicator; New World doesn't require USB, it just happens that breakpoint convenently describes the generational divide. And finally, don't confuse 'firmware' with 'OpenFirmware'. OF exists in all PCI-based Macs including (of course) the Gossamer (or Beige/Platinum) G3 PowerMacs.. hth, dan k ................................. http://macdan.n3.net/ carracho://dankephoto.dhs.org:9700 hotline://dankephoto.dhs.org:9500 ................................. -- G-List is sponsored by <http://lowendmac.com/> and... Small Dog Electronics http://www.smalldog.com | Refurbished Drives | -- We have Apple Refurbished Monitors in stock! | & CDRWs on Sale! | Support Low End Mac <http://lowendmac.com/lists/support.html> G-List list info: <http://lowendmac.com/lists/g-list.shtml> --> AOL users, remove "mailto:"; Send list messages to: <mailto:[email protected]> To unsubscribe, email: <mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]> For digest mode, email: <mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Subscription questions: <mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Archive: <http://www.mail-archive.com/g-list%40mail.maclaunch.com/> iPod Accessories for Less at 1-800-iPOD.COM Fast Delivery, Low Price, Good Deal www.1800ipod.com
