It’s time to set the record straight. Can PowerBook 100-series laptops work with MIDI synthesizers and software or not?
For years, rumor had it that PowerBooks had some kind of problem with MIDI. It was partly true. You couldn’t transfer samples or banks of data to the PowerBook using the large data transfer functions known as SysEx data dumps.
Apple fixed the problem in Duos, the PowerBook 500 series, and later models. It persists in the PowerBook 160 and 180, however. Apple points out that MIDI communications are more troublesome than sending modem data, because (a) MIDI data flows at a much faster rate (38,400 bps), and (b) streams of MIDI information have no error-correction protocols, as modems do.
Anyway, you’ll never notice the problem using everyday recording programs (sequencers) and notation programs; recording, playback, instrument changes, volume changes, pitch bends, and panning all work great on all PowerBooks. Even heavy data transmissions, such as polyphonic aftertouch and pitch bend, cause no problems.
If you’re stuck with a PowerBook 160 or 180, and you’re dying to send SysEx data to your PowerBook, Apple suggests that you send the info in smaller chunks.
