>I would like to put a file server (an older Mac, PPC 603 or 604) on my home >Ethernet network. It would also function as a backup device. But the >filename restrictions of 32 characters is a show-stopper. Is there any way >to remove this limitation on the old Macs?
You can see if the Mac you want to use can use OS X via XPostFacto. Then use OS X as the NOS and you won't have to worry about the 32 character limit. >Also, Mac OS X Tiger's AppleTalk support (or lack thereof) makes it more >difficult to mount a older Mac's drive on the desktop. What can be done >about this? OS X supports AppleShare over IP (older versions support AppleShare over Ethertalk as well). As long as a machine is running at least OS 9, it can act as an AppleShare over IP host, just turn on that option in the File Sharing control panel. (This may go back to 8.6 or possibly even earlier, but I'm not sure). If you are looking to connect to a AppleTalk network (not to be confused with Ethertalk which is AppleTalk over Ethernet), ie: you are trying to connect to machines that lack ethernet support... then you will have to use a gateway device to bring the older AppleTalk to ethernet. You can buy dedicated devices for this, or you can turn an old mac that has ethernet into such a device. I believe the latest free version of Apple's LocalTalk bridge software supports more than just printer devices, so if you have an available machine, that might be the easiest/cheapest route (check Apple's software archives for the download). Be aware that AppleTalk over serial is limited to I believe 256k of bandwidth (possibly less), so don't plan on having any zippy file transfers. If you plan to use this for more than printing or the occasional light file transfering, I'd look heavily at upgrading the serial AppleTalk network to Ethernet. -chris <http://www.mythtech.net> -- MacNetwork is sponsored by <http://lowendmac.com/> and... XRouter Pro | Share your DSL or cable modem between multiple computers! Dr. Bott | Only $199 <http://www.drbott.com/prod/MIH130.html> Support Low End Mac <http://lowendmac.com/lists/support.html> MacNetwork list info: <http://lowendmac.com/lists/macnet.html> --> AOL users, remove "mailto:"; end list messages to: <mailto:macnetwork@mail.maclaunch.com> To unsubscribe, email: <mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]> For digest mode, email: <mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Subscription questions: <mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Archive: <http://www.mail-archive.com/macnetwork%40mail.maclaunch.com/> iPod Accessories for Less at 1-800-iPOD.COM Fast Delivery, Low Price, Good Deal www.1800ipod.com
