USB reads wireless modem, software doesn't!

If you have another MAC computer available, you can create a USB key to solve this problem:

http://www.techrepublic.com/blog/apple-in-the-enterprise/how-to-create-a-bootable-usb-to-install-os-x/

If not, I'm afraid you will have to turn to an authorized apple service center. They will do the repair for you.

I had the same problem I have a ZTE USB modem & when I connect it with mac it never show up...so I googled ZTE for Mac & I found a driver update & update for connection manager . After installing them the modem work as charm

If you external DVD drive connects via USB, try rebooting your iBook. (Sometimes a static shock will shut down your USB channel, and only a reboot will reset it.)
If this doesn't work, choose "About This Mac" under the Apple menu, then click on "More Info." Under Hardware, click on USB. See if the drive shows up as one of the attached USB devices. If it does not, the drive or cable may be bad.
If you have another computer available, connect your DVD drive to it. This will tell you whether the drive has failed.

Depending on the mobile device you are connecting with, as the Franklin Dual Mode 4G+ mobile usb devices are not compatible with any MAC device, you can go to http://www.clear.com/support/download and select the USB Modems tab. Under that tab there will be pictures of all the Clear modems. Select the device you need the software (Clear Connection Manager) for and select the MAC version. The latest version of the CCMs are included. Just make sure before installing that any components of the older versions of the CCM are uninstalled prior to installing the latest version, as the CCM is not a self-overriding program.

Check out the discussion and possible solutions at:
http://macosx.com/forums/mac-os-x-system-mac-software/296304-ibook-g4-sudden-shutdown-when-unplugged.html

Start from scratch. Go back to your main computer and create a USB key and try that way.

Wondering, is your MAc setup for wireless?

Another thought, i had the same issue connecting my Mac to my parents wireless. I used the installation disc and that solved that.

for resetting the admin password w/out cd.
It's amazing the things you'll find with a search engine.

Reinstall the operating system.

http://transfer.barrister-net.com/download/Apple/iBook/ibg4_14_late04.pdf

ibook g4 late 04 14" screen

Did you check the Hardware Compatibility List to make sure that it would work on those computers? Unfortunately, not all brands work together and you should always check to make sure whatever your buying will work with the PC & Operating System you're using.