Interesting Caveat For PB 500 Series PCMCIA Expansion Module

#1 Sun, 14 Sep 2014 - 19:36

I came across this and thought it was interesting:

http://support.apple.com/kb/TA35383?viewlocale=en_US

"Apple does not recommend that any PCMCIA module be used with PowerBook 550c computer. The PowerBook 550c is available only in Japan."

Anyone know the reason behind this?

#2 Sun, 14 Sep 2014 - 20:08

According to EveryMac.com, it sounds like the 550c uses a different module than the 520 or 540.

http://www.everymac.com/systems/apple/powerbook/specs/mac_powerbook550c.html

Expansion Slots: 2 Type II PC Card* Expansion Bays: 1** Details: *2 Type II PC Card (1 Type III) expansion slots provided by PCMCIA adapter in a "swappable" bay (M2995LL/A).

**This model has a custom "swappable" bay that can be used to hold a second battery or a PCMCIA adapter along with other options.

Question is, does this model number for the PCMCIA ( M2995LL/A ) matches the ones for the 520/540 or is it different?

#3 Sun, 14 Sep 2014 - 20:20

It matches the one for the US 500 series, and people have successfully run Rev C cages meant for the 540c in the 550c. I wonder why Apple warns against it.

#4 Sun, 14 Sep 2014 - 22:38

I'm just speculating on this one by saying that Apple had/has a PCMCIA cage for the 550c in Japan which costs more money to get from them. But since that notice is almost 20 years old now, I would not worry it. If it matches one of the cages, then that's the cage to use.