According to Apple TIL Article #118877 (“iBook (FireWire) Battery Update Version”) an update is needed to correct a battery charging problem in some FireWire-equipped iBooks.
The iBook (FireWire) Battery Update corrects a problem with battery charging in some FireWire-equipped iBook computers (the battery doesn’t recharge after a long period of inactivity).
If you are using Mac OS X on your iBook, you must restart in Mac OS 9.0.4 to install the iBook (FireWire) Battery Update. To restart in Mac OS 9.0.4, use the Startup Disk pane of System Preferences.
Before you install the iBook (FireWire) Battery Update, read the instructions below. You may want to print them for reference.
1. Make sure your iBook’s power cord is connected and plugged into a working power source.
2. Double-click the iBook (FireWire) Battery Update icon.
Note: If a message says that this version of the iBook (FireWire) Battery Update will not run on this computer, then you do not need this update.
3. Follow the onscreen instructions. A status bar shows the progress of the update.
4. When a message says that iBook (FireWire) Battery Update has been successfully installed, click OK. Your iBook will restart.
Your system is updated and your battery should recharge normally when your power adapter is plugged in.
Note: If a message says the update was not completed successfully, begin the update process again.
