Apple has released a firmware update for PowerMac G4 models named Firmware Update 4.2.8. The new update includes improved support for Mac OS X, FireWire target disk mode, network startup, gigabit Ethernet support, and more. From Appleis ReadMe:
The Power Mac G4 Firmware Update 4.2.8 will run only on Power Mac G4 and Macintosh Server G4 models with AGP graphics running Mac OS 9.1 or later from a local hard disk. If you are using Mac OS X on your Power Mac G4 or Macintosh Server G4, you must start up from a local Mac OS 9.1 or later writeable partition (not a CD or network disk) before following the update instructions.
Firmware Update 4.1.9 is available for Power Mac G4 Cube models and iMac computers with slot-loading CD or DVD drives.
Firmware Update 4.2.8 includes improvements to starting up Mac OS X from the local hard disk, FireWire target disk mode, network startup, gigabit networking (on systems with gigabit hardware), and system stability. This update also adds support for additional security options that allow the Open Firmware to be password-protected.
Apple has also released version 4.1.9 of the firmware update for the PowerMac Cube. This update is largely the same as the PowerMac G4 update. From the ReadMe:
The G4 Cube Firmware Update 4.1.9 will run only on G4 Cube models running Mac OS 9.1 or later from a local hard disk. If you are using Mac OS X on your Cube, you must start up from a local Mac OS 9.1 or later writeable partition (not a CD or network disk) before following the update instructions.
Firmware Updates are also available for Power Mac G4 models and iMac computers with slot-loading CD or DVD drives.
Firmware Update 4.1.9 includes improvements to starting up Mac OS X from the local hard disk, FireWire target disk mode, network startup, and system stability. This update also adds support for additional security options that allow the Open Firmware to be password-protected.
Thanks to Observer Larry Thomas for giving us the heads up on these releases.
Direct links (note that an AppleCare account is required to access the updates):
If you have any problems accessing those links, search for "Firmware Updates" at the Software Download page at Appleis Web site.