Disable the CFM-68K Runtime Enabler

Disable the CFM-68K Runtime Enabler — If you use a Macintosh with a 68K processor, Apple is recommending that you disable the CFM-68K Runtime Enabler either by using an extensions manager or by removing it from your System Folder. Some applications that use the CFM-68K Runtime Enabler can crash your Macintosh, possibly causing data loss and other problems. This problem does not affect Power Macs.

<http://www.macos.apple.com/macos/cfm-68k.html>

The Code Fragment Manager (CFM) was originally developed for Power Macs and lets Power Mac applications use shared code libraries (trust me, they’re neat). Later, Apple ported the CFM backwards to 68K machines to make it easier for developers build 68K versions of Power Mac applications. Those 68K applications are just now starting to appear, although plenty more are in development.

However, Apple now admits to a problem with the 68K version of CFM, and it can’t be used reliably in all cases. Though this bug doesn’t impact every program that uses CFM-68K, there’s no simple way to know which applications are affected. Programs using CFM-68K include OpenDoc, Cyberdog, Apple Media Tool, LaserWriter 8.4 and 8.4.1, Microsoft Internet Explorer 3.0b1, and the preview of AOL 3.0. If you use any of these programs, Apple recommends you revert to earlier versions or stop using them. If you disable the CFM-68K enabler and try to use one of these applications, you’ll see an error, but no damage will be done. Apple is working on a fix, but there’s no public timetable for when a solution might be available. [GD]