[X-Newbies] Transferring files: G3-iMac G 5?

[Randy B.Singer]

Richard Bienvenu said:

>I _think_ that the best (quickest) way is to use Ethernet cable and 
>create a 2 mac network for file transfer. However, I've got 
>conflicting information on what sort of cable to use. The iMac 
>"User's Guide" says that "you don't need a crossover cable to connect 
>to other Ethernet devices." However, the piece of cable that hooks my 
>office machine to our LAN (a Cat 5 patch) doesn't seem to do the job 
>when I hook the iMac and the G3 together--no files show up on the 
>iMac.
>
>Could it be that the G3 does require a crossover cable?


No, the G5 sees to it that you don't need a crossover cable.

http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=42717  

By far the easiest way to migrate data from your old Mac to your new Mac 
is via  FireWire target disk mode.  This allows you to connect the two 
computers together with a FireWire cable and transfer the files as if you 
were transfering from one drive to another (simple drag and drop):

http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=58583

One minor problem is finding someplace to purchase a FireWire cable that 
won't charge you $36, like CompUSA would want to. Here is a 10ft. one (6 
pin to 6 pin, which is what you need) for only $10:
http://shop1.outpost.com/product/3839977

Info on FireWire Target Disk Mode:
http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=58583
http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=75420
http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=75414

Make sure that your G3 has all the relevant updates, especially the 
FireWire update:
http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=31002



Randy B. Singer
Co-Author of: The Macintosh Bible (4th, 5th and 6th editions)

Routine OS X Maintenance and Generic Troubleshooting
http://www.macattorney.com/ts.html