If you think about it, both the iBook and the PowerBook G3 are
large laptops. How about a smaller model?
Considering what I am used to (the PowerBook 1X0 series
and the PowerBook 5300), the iBook and PowerBook G3 are huge computers with huge
screens. I am writing this coming back from vacation. I had
constant problems with my iBook not having room to open up all the
way (the seat in front of me is down). I could open my 140 and 5300
all the way in that circumstance. This means that I am extremely
frustrated with my computer - and with the person in front of me.
(Sorry, I just had to mention my frustration)
So, Apple, how about making a PowerBook 5300-sized G3? I don't
mind losing the screen space, as long as I get something small -
not some huge, dictionary-sized computer.
Who would buy this smaller PowerBook? Users who want a small,
easily transportable Mac, users who travel often and are sick and
tired of their computer screen being smashed by those evil people
in the seat in front of them. I would buy it for that reason, and
because I need something small and fast for school, something I can
carry easily without lugging a huge bag around.
Of course, new computer buyers demand a G3 processor, 300 MHz or
faster, with either 512K or 1 MB backside cache. While you're at
that, make sure we have at least two (yes, two) USB ports. Remember
to include a nice, fast, video card. And how about installing the
video card in a special PowerBook-only slot so it can be upgraded
later? Include two PC Card slots, an internal expansion bay for
either a CD-ROM (OK, so maybe the computer would be more PowerBook 1400 sized, but that is still
fairly small) or third party device such as a floppy drive
A PowerBook 5300 sized keyboard and track pad must be included
(this one must be able to do tap/click, drag, and drag-lock.) We
can complete the picture with a 9.5" TFT (yes, 9.5-inch - it
has to be small to fit in a small case) LCD display capable
of showing millions of colours at either 640 x 480 or 800 x 600. The
computer can be configured with 64, 128, or 192 MB of RAM, a 4.2 or
6 GB hard disk, and a selection of software for business, possibly
including FaxSTF, AppleWorks, and Quicken. The computer would come
complete with Mac OS 9.0.4.
Remember, Apple, you created the name PowerBook to mean small,
powerful, book-sized Macintosh laptop computers. With these latest
machines, all the G3 PowerBooks and the iBook, they are so large,
you should rename them. Try thinking along the lines of
"PowerDictionary".
If I could have upgraded my 5300cs to modern-day G3 standards, I
would have done so without hesitation. The fact that the 5300 is
non-upgradable creates a good market for a 5300-sized G3.
Apple's slogan is "Think Different". Does it take the consumer
to actually do that thinking?
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