Compiled by Charles Moore
and edited by
Dan Knight
- 2003.03.07
Except as noted, prices are in US dollars.
Allegro 500 MHz G3 Upgrade for WallStreet
We've all loved the WallStreet, but sometimes it's a bit slow.
With the Allegro 500 processor upgrade, you can speed it up.
Allegro 500 G3 processor features:
- 500 MHz G3 processor
- 1 MB L2 (backside) cache @ 250 MHz
- 50% Cooler than other upgrade kits
- 100% OS 9 and OS X Compatible
- No ROM Upgrade necessary
- No software installation
- Supports from 32 to 512 MB
- Works with Mac OS 8.1-OS 9.2.1 and 10-10.3xx
- 1 year warranty
Allegro's developers say:
"We've read all the horror stories about other upgrades from the
usual suspects. The ROM dies, and then you spend 4 months waiting
on a replacement. Or the installation process gets stuck, and you
spend an hour on the phone with tech support, trying to get help,
then you get to return it! No fun!
"So we decided we would build a better upgrade. How do we get
around it?? We use upgraded processors which DO NOT require
installation of ROM, drivers, or upgrade software!
"We guarantee your installation is 100% compatible with all
WallStreet software and hardware. Just pull the old processor,
slide ours in, and you'll be running again in just 3-5 minutes!
There is NO software required, no other installation necessary
beyond plugging in your new card.
"Why not G4? Good question. But think about it. The only real
advantage of G4 is the AltiVec processor, which is rarely utilized,
except for video processing. And the WallStreet is really not set
up for video processing anyway, so if you were going to do
video, you'd save that extra $150, and get a Pismo. So our opinion
is, get the Allegro, save your pennies, and get on with life!
"The bottom line is, will this thing function? The answer is
yes! We have been able to reduce processor heat by nearly 50%
cooler than even the G3 PowerBook Pismo! Our processor operates at
a balmy 55C (that's 131F for you Americans!). And cool is good -
this means great reliability for your processor, and excellent
performance for you."
The Allegro will accept more RAM - up to 512 MB.
Purchase requires return of your original WallStreet card. A $60
core charge will be refunded upon receipt of your old card. There
are two models available from Wegener
Media:
- Version A. Works with all 233-300 MHz WallStreets with backside
cache, $239.99
- Version B. Works with 233 MHz (no cache) and 250 MHz versions,
$269.99
PowerBook Medic Launches Online Store
The PowerBook
Medic online store is now open, accepting major credit
cards, checks, and PayPal. All transactions are secure with SSL
encryption. PowerBook Medic offers replacement parts, take-apart
manuals, and PowerBook upgrades.
PowerBook Medic also offers services including installations,
repairs, manuals, and parts. The fee for installations and repairs
is a flat $65.
These services are available for the following models:
- Titanium G4
- iBook White
- iBook Clamshell
- WallStreet G3
- Pismo G3
- Lombard G3
Some products available include:
iBook White Ice Take Apart Manual
This is a detailed take apart guide for the Apple iBook White
Ice. This manual includes detailed pictures and explanations of
take apart procedures. After buying this item, you will
automatically be able to download the manual.
Price: $9.95
Take Apart Manuals are available for:
- Titanium G4 Gigabit
- Titanium G4 400
- iBook White "Ice"
- iBook Clamshell
- G3 Pismo FireWire
- G3 Lombard USB
- G3 WallStreet 1998
- G3 Original Kanga
- 3400c
- 2400c
- 1400c/1400cs
- Duo 230, 280, 2300c
- 550c
- 500
- 190 and 5300
- 150
- 100
- Macintosh Portable
Pismo/Lombard Bottom Feet Replacement Set
This is a replacement set of four new feet for the PowerBook
Pismo / Lombard. The feet need to be applied with super glue.
Price: $ 9.95
Pismo Complete Screw Set
This is a complete set of screws for the G3 Pismo.
Price: $14.95
Torx T8 Screwdriver
This is a Torx T8 screwdriver to remove the screws from your
PowerBook or iBook.
Price: $8.95
Laptops for Underprivileged Teens
Andrei Raevsky has set up Laptops for Teens, a
program to provide laptops to poorer kids.
Here how Andrei's idea works:
You donate him your old laptop. At a minimum it must have
Pentium or AMD (or compatible) processor, 64 MB of RAM memory, a
500 MB hard drive, and a CD-ROM. The laptop does not need to be in
top condition; its screen or case could have a bump or two and its
keyboard could be in poor shape.
Andrei will gratefully accept any laptop which does not appear
to function well. If the laptop crashes, has viruses, does not
print, or if you cannot retrieve files from it, he will still
happily take it, since he is planning to install Linux. Andrei says
two of the happy qualities of Linux are its ability to run on older
computers and its ability to run well on seemingly defective
hardware. Also Linux is distributed free of charge and can be
freely copied, which helps facilitate a program like this
Once Linux is installed on the laptop, Andrei will donate it to
an underprivileged teenager (selected by local high schools or the
police department). He will also teach the teen how to use it at no
charge.
The plan is to offer each teenager:
- 5 weekly courses on the use of Linux software
- 10 weeks of email/phone support
- the ability of autonomously continue developing computer
skills
- a Linux preinstalled laptop with over 2000 free
applications
All this will be free of any charge. The combination of a laptop
and the skills needed to run Linux on it will give this teenager
the ability not only to use a word-processor or a spreadsheet, but
also surf the Internet, send and receive emails, and much more. In
fact, he/she will have all the tools to become a computer
programmer or system administrator.
Andrei is a Swiss citizen and a certified Windows programmer and
Linux system administrator living in Florida.
This is a very commendable project, and if you have or know of
any surplus PC laptops, get in touch with Andrei.
Maybe we could even convince him to include Mac laptops (which
can run Linux as well) in the program.
PortaBrace Director Case
The soft PortaBrace
case has a large inside pocket and roomy outside flap compartment,
lots of room for file folders, scripts, proposals, note pad, and
all the rest of the paper you can't avoid carrying. Several large
outside slip pockets, one with zipper for extra security, keep
clipboard or notebook ready at hand and smaller slip pockets for
whatever you need a place for at the moment.
Three models are available.
Magma 2 Slot CardBus-to-PCI Expansion
Would your life be easier if you could take your desktop
computer to the job site instead of the job site coming to you?
Magma's 2 Slot
CardBus-to-PCI Expansion System is just what you need to make this
idea a reality.
This expansion system adds two full-length 32-bit or 64-bit PCI
slots to PowerBooks and PC Laptops. Now you 
can get rid of that unmovable desktop
computer and use a portable computer instead. All this potential is
available in a box with a similar footprint to the variety of
portable computers on the market today. No more bulky "lunchbox"
computers are required. Now you can use your favorite laptop
computer in the same capacity as a full-size desktop machine.
The two slot expansion system is available in several different
configurations. One of the most popular solutions is Model CB2,
which accommodates 2 full-length 32-bit PCI cards and has a drive
bay esspecially designed so you can add an internal SCSI, FireWire,
or IDE/ATA drive. That's right - the same drive that you use with a
desktop computer. Now there's no reason to run out of disk
space!
The newest addition of the 2 slot expansion line is Model CB264,
which accommodates 2 full-length 64-bit PCI cards. Although
communication to the computer will be in 32-bit mode, communication
inside the expansion system can be in 64-bit mode.
As an added bonus, users who require true "go anywhere"
portability, Magma offers the 2 Slot CardBus-to-PCI Expansion
System in a DC-ready format. Magma's DC Models are made to be
powered on any user supplied 12-volt DC power source (such as a
battery or car lighter adapter.) DC Models have an XLR-4 power
connector and are shipped with a 100-Watt AC power brick, for those
occasions when AC power is available.
The most unique feature of the 2 slot expansion system is the
ability to add a SCSI, FireWire, or IDE/ATA drive without using one
of the two available PCI slots. There is a special third PCI slot
available to install one of Magma's SCSI, FireWire, or IDE/ATA
Storage Kits. By purchasing a Storage Kit you increase the
flexibility and functionality of the 2 slot expansion system. Two
fully usable PCI slots are still available for your other PCI
cards. Six different Storage Kits are available.
Additional Features:
- Easy installation: install Magma PCI CardBus interface into the
PC Card (PCMCIA) slot of your portable computer, connect the cable,
add your PCI cards, and power up
- Metal enclosure will protect your expensive PCI cards when
you're on the go
- Can be used with a desktop computer when PCI host interface
(PCIHIF68) is purchased separately
- Includes space to mount internal disk drives: SCSI, FireWire,
or IDE/ATA
- available in a 32-bit or 64-bit form factor
- for OEMs, non-enclosed board sets are also available
Supported Mac Operating Systems:
- Mac OS 9.x
- Mac OS X 10.2.2 or newer
2 Slot Prices
- 32-bit 2 Slot CardBus-to-PCI Expansion System (90W internal
power supply). Includes Magma CardBus host interface card and
1-meter 68-pin PCI Expansion cable. CB2 $895
- 32-bit 2 Slot CardBus-to-PCI Expansion System (100W external
power brick) with XLR-4 DC power connector. Includes Magma CardBus
host interface card and 1-meter 68-pin PCI Expansion cable. CB2DC
$1,150
- 64-bit 2 Slot CardBus-to-PCI Expansion System (90W internal
power supply). Includes Magma CardBus host interface card and
1-meter 68-pin PCI Expansion cable. CB264 $1,095
- 64-bit 2 Slot CardBus-to-PCI Expansion System (100W external
power brick) with XLR-4 DC power connector. Includes Magma CardBus
host interface card and 1-meter 68-pin PCI Expansion cable. CB264DC
$1,450
Higher Ground Laptop Cases
Higher Ground is a line of highly functional laptop cases from
Shaun Jackson Design
that offer full time protection 
for your
notebook computer and open to create a comfortable work environment
for use on your lap or desktop surface. Models range from compact
sleeves to backpacks.
Laptrap
Laptrap is a unique, padded sleeve for your computer that
unfolds in seconds for use on your lap or desk. The Laptrap is a
solution for users who want the protection of a compact, dedicated
laptop case with the added functionality of a portable office, but
do not want to give up their current briefcase, bag, or
backpack.
Laptrap sells for $59.95
Back Office
The clever design of this unique computer carrying case, allows
you to convert it in seconds from a comfortable, padded backpack to
a single shoulder strap vertical briefcase. The pack opens to
create a functional, well organized portable office, for use on
your lap or on any desk top.
Back Office sells for $149.95
Datakeeper
Two great products in one! A well padded laptop case combined
with a 3-ring binder and organizer. This versatile product allows
you to use your laptop without removing it from the case. It's
small footprint and non slip surfaces keep your computer safe and
secure on your lap or a small desktop.
Datakeeper sells for $59.95
Lexar Media Keeps Data Safe with Extra Rugged
JumpDrive Secure
Lexar Media,
Inc. announces JumpDrive Secure, a rugged portable USB
storage device with security software. JumpDrive Secure is made
from impact resistant ABS plastic and co-molded rubber for extreme
durability. The device also includes encrypted password protected
security software for PC and Mac to protect data from unauthorized
access. With these features, JumpDrive Secure ensures that data
will be available wherever and whenever it is needed and is kept
safe from unauthorized users.
The JumpDrive Secure security software allows users to designate
a secure area on the drive to store files, and incorporates
password-protected access for the user. This allows the primary
user to share some, but not all, of the information on the
JumpDrive. Formatting of the secure area is only permitted with
password access to protect against unauthorized deletion. The
software offers cross platform support for Windows and Macintosh
computers and true data portability between platforms. Most
important for people using multiple computers, the security
software is resident on the JumpDrive, which allows authorized
users to access the secure area of the drive from any computer with
the software available on the JumpDrive. This offers an advantage
over other solutions that require users to download their security
software from the Web or a CD to install it on each computer
used.
"All our JumpDrive products offer the benefit of keeping your
important data with you at all times. Now, the extra rugged
JumpDrive Secure is more protected from everyday wear and tear. The
security software also ensures data will be available when it is
needed and is protected against unauthorized users," said David
Klenske, director of product marketing, Lexar Media.
JumpDrive Secure features a unique software interface that is
intuitive and easy to use. It is also the only USB flash storage
device on the market to include security software especially for
Mac users, complete with an Aqua interface. The security software
will work with Windows 2000, XP, and Mac OS X.
"Removable USB flash storage has established itself as a major
player in the flash memory card market over the past two years,"
said Alan Niebel, CEO, Web-Feet Research. "In 2002, 4.4 million
units were sold and for 2003 we expect to see over 11.3 million
units sold, generating at least $360 million in revenue."
JumpDrive Secure is the fourth JumpDrive introduced by Lexar
Media. With the addition of JumpDrive Secure, the JumpDrive product
line addresses the needs of a range of customers, including value
pricing, high-speed data transfer, interchangeable and expandable
memory, and now security. Lexar Media has the broadest offering of
any USB flash drive manufacturer.
JumpDrive Secure will be available in retail outlets in March
and will be available in 64 MB, 128 MB, and 256 MB capacities.
Suggested retail pricing for the product is $59.99, $89.99, and
$149.99, respectively. The drive requires no drivers for modern
operating systems including Windows 2000, ME, XP, and Mac
OS X.
Acme Made Introduces Two New PowerBook
Products
Acme Made Inc. has
introduced two new designs for the Apple G4 PowerBooks, the
PowerBook "iCover" and a sleek new carrying case called "The
Slim."
The PowerBook iCover is a thin sleeve designed
to easily slip over the PowerBook's display and protect it from
indentations the keyboard leaves when the unit is closed. The
iCover is constructed from a synthetic micro-suede that is very
durable, washable, and looks great. It retails on the Acme Made
site for $19.99 and comes in 12", 15", and 17" sizes.
The "Slim" is Acme Made's new hybrid sleeve/carrying case
designed specifically for Apple's new PowerBooks, but also fits
Apple's 12" iBook and the small models of the Sony Vaio. The thinly
designed Slim easily fits within a larger bag
or, using its detachable strap, carried on its own as a lightweight
travel case. Geared towards a more discerning audience, the $85
Slim combines hi-tech materials - such as rubberized, splash-proof
zippers, high density foam, and ballistic nylon - with traditional
leather handles and a stylish quilted satin lining.
"We wanted to do something a little different that looks and
functions a little better than your typical computer bag," says
Acme Made's Mark Loncar.
Additionally, the "Designer" Slims are limited editions
featuring textiles by such notable architect/designers as Charles
and Ray Eames and Verner Panton.
WiebeTech Adds Two New, Faster Configurations
for Desktop and Pocket Drives, Announces R/C Car Promotion
WiebeTech announces a higher performance version of the popular
MicroGB+ FireWire pocket drive featuring a 40 GB notebook drive
with a 5400 RPM spindle and a 16 MB cache. Also, a higher
performance version of the DesktopGB+ is introduced.
In addition, WiebeTech offers a free miniature radio-controlled
car for all end user orders placed directly through WiebeTech's
online store at www.wiebetech.com with an order
value of $300 or more. The car has a value of $29.95. Supplies are
limited.
The new version of the MicroGB+ features a 40 GB notebook drive
with a 5400 RPM spindle and a 16 MB cache. The resulting real world
performance of MicroGB+ in this new configuration has been measured
at approximately 25 MB/sec on a 1 GB file transfer test. This
gives users increased performance for demanding applications such
as Apple' Final Cut Pro or DigiDesign's ProTools audio editing
application.
The new version of the DesktopGB+ incorporates an extremely
quiet Hitachi fluid bearing 120 GB drive with an increased
8 MB cache. The increased cache size offers a higher level of
performance for users.
Prices
- MicroGB+, 40 GB, 5400 RPM, 16 MB Cache, MPL-40EX, $319.95
- DesktopGB+, 120 GB, 7200 RPM, 8 MB Cache, DPL-120EX,
$299.95
RC Car, silver or yellow, runs for two minutes on one charge
- RC-SILVER, $29.95
- RC-YELLOW, $29.95
The RC Car is free with any $300 order placed online only.
In the U.S. and Canada, dealers may purchase any configuration
of MicroGB+ or DesktoGB+ from WiebeTech's distributor, Dr Bott LLC, or from dealers.
All configurations are in stock and available directly from
WiebeTech. Canadian resellers may purchase products from EMJ.
Bargain 'Books
There are two different versions of WallStreet running at 233
MHz, the cacheless MainStreet
version and the later Series II
with a level 2 cache. It's not always possible to determine from
the vendor's listing which is being offered, so we've included
links within this paragraph to the two models. The same goes for
the PowerBook G4/667 (Gigabit
Ethernet/2001) and G4/667
(DVI).
- new PowerBook G4/667,
256/30/Combo, 32 MB VRAM, $1,899
- New 12" PowerBook G4/867,
256/40/Combo, AirPort Extreme ready, 2 compartment backpack
(removable PowerBook G4 protection sleeve, 4 media pockets, 2
hardware accessory pockets, 2 internal quick access pockets, 3
external zippered pockets, 1 slip-into storage bin pocket, 2
external cell phone/camera pockets, key holder, padded,
ergonomically shaped pack straps, easy-grip handle), $1,978 (Must
be Top Dog Club Member to purchase)
- 15" PowerBook G4/867, 1
GB/40/SuperDrive, AppleCare, AirPort card, AirPort Extreme base
station, $3,101
Mac Outpost (Prices in Canadian Dollars)
- used iBook, 300 MHz,
96/3/CD-ROM, 30 day warranty, CAN$949.99
- used iBook SE, 366MHz,
96/6/CD-ROM, 30 day warranty, CAN$1049.99
For more deals on current or recently discontinued models, see
our Best PowerBook G4 Deals
and Best iBook Deals.
