PowerBook G3 Series: DVD-Video Kit Installation

The installation of this software will create the Apple DVD Software 1.1 extension package, which includes the following extensions:

• Apple CD/DVD Driver (1.2) This extension enables the use of CD and DVD Discs. This driver replaces the Apple CD-ROM and Apple DVD-ROM driver, which are no longer necessary.
• ATI Driver Update (1.4.7) This extension updates the display driver for ATI hardware on the PowerBook.
• ATI MPP Manager (1.1.1) This extension enables the host CPU to communicate with the DVD-Video PC Card. It also manages the transfer of video stream data from the DVD-Video PC Card to the graphics chip on the PowerBook.
• Audio Tune Up (2.1) This extension updates the audio drivers on the PowerBook.
• DVD Decoder Library (1.1) This is the Decoder Library extension required to properly decode DVD discs.
• DVD PC Card Enabler (1.1) This is the PC Card Enabler extension for the DVD-Video PC Card.
• DVD Region Manager (1.0) This is the Region Manager extension for controlling region access with DVD discs.
• UDF Volume Access (1.2) This extension enables the PowerBook to read disks that are recorded in the Universal Disk Format?, which is the standard format for DVD discs. Please note that this extension supports volumes recorded at the Optical Storage Technology Association UDF m1.5 specification level.

All of these extensions must be installed and turned on for the DVD hardware and software to function normally. After the install is complete, restart the computer. Once at the desktop, insert the DVD-Video PC card. After the PC Card appears on the desktop, insert a DVD disc and run the Apple DVD Player application (an alias for this application is located in the root directory of the Apple Menu).

New enhancements to the player in version 1.1 include support to play movies designated for any one DVD-Video Region you choose, the ability to play DVD-Videos discs that use the PAL video standard, and the ability to pick up viewing right where you left off in a movie. This last feature will function even when you shut down your system, but you must not eject the disc.

For ideal DVD playback, disable Virtual Memory and set the Energy Saver control panel to maximum performance.

For best results when setting up the PowerBook to show DVD-Video on a television, set the resolution to 720x480 NTSC or 720x576 PAL from the Control Strip.

The latest version of the Apple DVD Player software is available for download from the Apple Software Updates Web site at http://www.apple.com/swupdates.

Note: Macintosh PowerBook G3 Series computers should not be confused with Macintosh PowerBook G3 computers. Though the names are similar, there are significant differences. For more information differentiating between the computers, read article 24604: "PowerBook G3, G3 Series: Identifying Different Versions"