Symptom
The battery does not charge when you're using the computer. It charges normally when the computer is in sleep mode or shut down.
Note: This issue only affects PowerBook G3 Series computers with a black keyboard. See article 24604 "
PowerBook G3 Computers: How to Identify Different Models" for help identifying models.
Solution
There are several reasons why a battery may not charge when the computer is being used: the charging circuit hardware isn't working, the battery is no longer usable, or there is an issue with the AC adapter or wall outlet.
To help narrow down the possible cause, follow these steps:
1. Shut down the PowerBook
2. Connect it to AC power overnight and see if the battery is charged. If so, your PowerBook should be serviced. If it does not charge, try the next step.
3. Be sure the AC outlet is functional by plugging another electrical device into the wall outlet and turning it on.
4. If the outlet is working, try using a different AC adapter, if available, to charge the battery.
5. Download and install the PowerBook Battery Reset 2.0 from the Apple Software Updates Web site (http://www.apple.com/swupdates/).