Compiled by Charles Moore
and edited by
Dan Knight
- 2003.07.11
Except as noted, prices are in US dollars.
New 60 GB 7200 RPM Mobile Hard Disk Drive
Delivers Desktop Storage Performance
Apple Developer Group member Trans
Intl. has released an Industry first: a 7200 RPM mobile
hard disk drive in 60 GB capacity and 2.5" form factor. The new
7200 RPM drive offers mobile users desktop equivalent performance
with battery consumption at about the same level as a 5,400 RPM
HDD.
The drive offers substantial improvement in mobile I/O by
keeping in line with the performance characteristics of the
industry's leading edge mobile drive specifications.
- Quiet acoustics by incorporating fluid dynamic bearing
technology
- Low power consumption
- Excellent shock performance [Increase Shock performance by 25
percent]
The new 2.5" drive spins 33 percent faster than its 5400 RPM
counterpart, which translates into 15 percent faster data access in
notebook computers coupled with 20 percent lower rotational latency
and improved average seek time by 20 percent which gives excellent
opportunity to mobile users looking to boost their existing system
performance by upgrading their internal hard disk drive.
This 7200 RPM mobile drive has unique performance features
superior to other drives currently available. Performance
parameters, like:
- Spindle Speed: 7200 RPM
- Cache buffer: 8 MB
- Average Seek Time: 10 ms
- The lowest drive latency of 4.2 in 2.5 inch drives
- Delivering media transfer rates up to 568 Mbits/sec
- The highest shock rating of: 1000G/1 ms
- Maximum Interface transfer rate: 100 MB/sec Ultra DMA
mode-5
- Interface: ATA-6
The new mobile 60 GB 7200 RPM drive is also available as an
external FireWire/USB portable case featuring the fastest sustained
data transfer rate of [27-40 MB/s] enabled by an Oxford 911 Fire
Wire bridge chip.
WiebeTech Announces 7200 RPM MicroGB+TM Pocket
Drive Offering Desktop Performance
WiebeTech has
announced a 7200 RPM version of the popular MicroGB+ pocket
drives.
"This is our first pocket drive offering that supports audio and
digital video editing at a desktop performance level," says James
Wiebe, CEO of WiebeTech. "Simply put, the performance envelope of
MicroGB+ has been expanded by approximately 30 percent."
Using Hitachi's latest notebook drive, this new configuration
produces performance benchmarks that are directly comparable to
desktop drives. First benchmarking is producing read and write
benchmarks of 34 MB and 30.5 MB/sec., respectively.
This new version of MicroGB+ has a capacity of 60 GB. It is
available in a FireWire only version (MicroGB+) or a version
supporting FireWire and USB2 (MicroGB+Combo). The new version will
ship starting the week of July 7.
Price
- FireWire only, $469.95
- Combo, $499.95
In the U.S. and Canada, dealers may purchase any configuration
of MicroGB+ from WiebeTech's distributor, Dr Bott, or from dealers. All
configurations are in stock and available directly from WiebeTech.
Canadian resellers may purchase products from EMJ.
BookEndz Docking Station for 12" PowerBook
The new BookEndz
Docking Station for 12" PowerBook replicates all of the
connectors and ports from the side of the 12" PowerBook 
and routes the connectors to the back
of the dock. The dock allows for all of the peripheral devices
normally connected to the side of the PowerBook - power, ethernet,
modem, FireWire, USB, audio in, audio out - to be plugged into the
back of the dock and remain plugged in, independent of the
computer. The dock also converts RGB to VGA.
Taking the computer from the office or the home, or moving it
from one room to another, doesn't require disconnecting and
reconnecting several devices.
The PowerBook 12" docking station sells for $179.
Shinza TiBook Case
The Shinza
TiBook case was specifically designed to carry the Apple
PowerBook G4 Titanium (15" screen). Both lightweight and durable,
the TiBook Case's sleek
appearance is an excellent match with the sophisticated design of
the PowerBook G4. Each case is handmade from 100% brushed aluminum,
making each case one-of-a-kind. The low-profile design means the
case is scarcely larger than the PowerBook G4 itself.
This case features a sturdy metal handle, and the interior is
lined with soft protective felt and features shock-absorbing
resistance pads along the edges. The TiBook case also comes with
two keys that are used to securely lock down your PowerBook during
transport.
The TiBook case is also available in a clear case model, which
features a top lid composed of transparent 100% fiberglass in order
to prominently display your PowerBook.
Features:
- Handmade from 100% brushed aluminum
- Protects your PowerBook G4 from scratches and shock damage
- Low profile design is almost as thin as the PowerBook
itself
- Can be locked with provided keys
- Features a sturdy metal handle
- Clear Case model's lid is composed of 100% fiberglass
- Lightweight and durable
Technical Specifications:
- Lid styles: Brushed aluminum and clear transparent
- Exterior dimensions (W x D x H): 14.6 x 1.3 x 10.7 inches (371
x 33 x 272 mm)
- Materials: Brushed aluminum, fiber glass
- Weight: 2.2 lbs (1.0 kg)
Price: $199
Phonex QX-311 NeverWire USB Gives You
Broadband Internet at Any Electrical Outlet
Need a speedy Internet connection in the kids' room? How about
the kitchen? Or maybe out on the deck? It's easy with the NeverWire USB
and your existing broadband
Internet connection. No tearing into walls to install cable! Just
reliable broadband Internet access from any room in your home or
small office, from the world leader in powerline technology.
Phonex Broadband has sold over 9 million powerline products.
Concerned about security? The NeverWire USB's 56-bit DES security
option makes it easy to protect your privacy. Load the easy-to-use
software and set a new password. You can also use the NeverWire USB
to network any host controller USB device - computers, game
consoles and more.
Features:
- 12 Mbps maximum rate
- 56-bit DES encryption/decryption security to ensure
privacy
- Universal power supply designed for worldwide operation
- USB 1.1 Series B jack
- HomePlug 1.0 Compliant
The NeverWire USB comes with a 30-day, no-questions-asked,
money-back guarantee from Phonex Broadband.
$79.99 MSRP per unit
SmartDisk Launches FlashHopper USB Flash
Memory Drive
SmartDisk
Corporation has introduced FlashHopper, a portable,
miniature USB flash memory drive.
"FlashHopper offers the fastest, smallest, and easiest way to
transport and share files from home or office computer," says
Charles Klinker, Director of Marketing for SmartDisk. "Simply plug
FlashHopper into a USB port, and the unit is automatically
recognized by your computer as a removable drive; then, drag and
drop files, transport and share."
FlashHopper is available in four versions from 64 MB to 512 MB
capacity. Suggested retail prices for FlashHopper are $39.99 (64
MB), $69.99 (128 MB), $99.99 (256 MB) and $199.99 (512 MB). All
models are available through distributors, retailers, Apple online
and retail stores, and the company's website.
D-Link Delivers First Wireless USB Adapter
for Both PC and Mac
D-Link, a
specialist in networking, broadband, and digital electronic
technologies, has announced the first compact wireless USB 1.1
adapter that works seamlessly across both Windows and
Macintosh-based operating systems, the D-Link Air DWL-122 Wireless
Network USB Adapter.
With the D-Link DWL-122, one very affordable adapter can
wirelessly connect to a local network from a desktop PC without
opening the computer case, and that same adapter can go on the road
with any USB 1.1-equipped laptop. The sleek, compact USB wireless
adapter gives mass consumers a flexible and affordable solution to
connect to home and office networks and Internet hotspots.
The affordable D-Link Air DWL-122 Wireless Network USB Adapter
provides an 802.11b wireless connection with data transfer speeds
up to 11 Mbps to any desktop or laptop computer by plugging
directly into a standard USB 1.1/2.0 port. Because it pulls power
from the Universal Serial Bus, the D-Link Air Wireless Network USB
Adapter doesn't require a separate power source, and it even comes
with an extension cable so the adapter can be placed in the best
location to connect with the strongest signal.
"We are making wireless connectivity easy by delivering an
outside the box network solution that's affordable for both the PC
and the Mac," said Steven Joe, President of D-Link. "The D-Link
DWL-122 is small enough to be taken on- the-go, and fast enough to
be used on a fixed network by simply plugging it in."
"Offering 802.11b standard technology at a very affordable price
is part of our wireless connectivity stratification strategy that
will allow more consumers the opportunity to gain access to
wireless connectivity," added Joe.
The D-Link Air DWL-122 Wireless Network USB Adapter is an
802.11b compliant device, ensuring compatibility with 802.11b/g
standards-based networking devices, and it supports both Apple Mac
OS X (10.x and later) and Windows XP/2000/ME/98SE operating
systems. Because it connects to any USB 1.1 or greater port, the
D-Link DWL-122 can move from a desktop computer to a laptop system,
without blocking the PC Card slot. The D-Link DWL-122 features
integrated 64/128-bit WEP encryption, keeping network trespassers
at bay. With the included extension cable, the D-Link DWL-122 can
be placed at a distance from the desktop or laptop to achieve the
best available wireless signal.
The D-Link Air DWL-122 Wireless Network USB Adapter is available
through authorized retail, reseller, and distribution partners at a
manufacturer's suggested price of $49.99. The D-Link Air Wireless
Network USB Adapter comes with a one year warranty and absolutely
free 24/7 Technical Support including firmware updates.
SendStation Announces PocketDock
FireWire-to-iPod Adapter
Sendstation
Systems has announced the PocketDock, an indispensable
companion for Apple's sensational and wildly successful new iPod
MP3 player. The PocketDock is smaller than a box of matches and
allows a standard 6-pin FireWire cable to connect to the iPod's
proprietary docking port, giving the user the freedom and
independence she has come to expect from her iPod.
"When you're on the road with your new iPod," says André
Klein, SendStation Systems founder, "and you want to connect to
another Mac or PC to exchange files or just to charge the battery,
you'll probably find that you didn't bring the special docking
cable - it's at home connected to your computer. The PocketDock,
small enough to carry anywhere, is a simple and elegant
solution."
As an additional benefit, the PocketDock lets you use
accessories with your new iPod that were designed for previous
models, such as car chargers.
The PocketDock's elegant design is a perfect match for the iPod,
and it fits in your wallet.
The PocketDock will be available starting in July for $16.95
(SRP) directly from SendStation Systems and from authorized dealers
worldwide. Customers are able to preorder their PocketDock
immediately on the web site.
SimpleDrive FireWire/USB Ambidextrous
Drive
The
SimpleDrive is an easy way to add storage to any
computer with a FireWire or USB port. Use SimpleDrive for digital
music, movies, photographs, and all other file types. SimpleTech
provides a free fully functioning copy of StorageSync automatic
backup software for Windows. With a simple click of your mouse,
StorageSync will backup files, folders, or your entire hard
drive.
With FireWire and USB (2.0 & 1.1) connections, set up is a
snap, and data transfer rates are incredibly fast and reliable.
FireWire
- FireWire, iLink, and 1394 Compatible
- OHCI and SBP-2 compliant
- Two external 6-pin 1394 (FireWire) receptacles
- Serial bus data transfer rates of 100, 200, and 400
Mb/second
USB 2.0
- USB 2.0 and 1.1 compliant
- One external "B" 4-pin USB (High Speed USB) receptacle
- Serial bus data transfer rates of up to 480 Mb/sec
- SimpleTech 7200 RPM HDD Technology
- USB 2.0 Provides up to 480 Mb/sec Data Transfer Rate
- FireWire Provides up to 400 Mb/sec Data Transfer Rate
- Connect Up to 62 FireWire devices
- Connect Up to 127 USB 2.0 Devices with USB Hubs
- Plug n' Play, One Step Installation
- Stores All File Types, Data, and Software
- Automatic Backups with StorageSync
- Hot Swappable
- No tool required
- Compact design: 5.51" (H) x 8.86" (L) x 1.35" (D)
- Stands vertically or sits horizontally
Includes Free StorageSync Backup Software Included (Windows
Only)
- Unlimited toll free technical support
- 1 year warranty
Macintosh
- Available OHCI compliant FireWire/1394/iLink and/or USB 1.1
port
- Mac OS 9.x or later; built for Mac OS X
Windows
- Available OHCI compliant FireWire/1394/iLink or USB 2.0 or 1.1
port
- Windows 98SE/Me/2000/XP
- FireWire & USB 2.0 3.5" IDE External Hard Drive
- 6-pin to 6-pin FireWire Cable
- USB 2.0 Cable
- AC Adapter with Power Cord (DC 12V/2A)
- StorageSync Software CD (Windows Only)
- Quick Installation Guide
Toshiba Launches Next Generation DVD/CD
Recordable Drive
The Toshiba DVD recordable kit enables users to upgrade their
current computers with DVD/CD playback and recording capabilities
to store and share home movies, music, and photos with greater
efficiency and performance. All of the tools needed for
"do-it-yourself" installation - including the drive, the software,
cables, and the media - are in one convenient, low-priced
package.
With 4x recording speeds, the Toshiba drive makes it virtually
effortless to transfer home videos and photos from the computer to
the living room DVD player. The drive is also backward compatible,
so consumers can still enjoy their existing CD/DVD music and movie
collections.
The SD-R5112 supports write speeds of 4x for DVD-R, 2x for
DVD-RW, 16x for CD-R, and 10x for CD-RW. In addition to the drive
itself, the upgrade kit also includes Cyberlink PowerDVD, Cyberlink
PowerDirector Pro and Pinnacle (VOB) instant CD/DVD software, along
with DVD-R, DVD-RW, CD-R, and CD-RW blank media.
Now shipping to OEM customers and distribution channels. The kit
is also available from http://www.shoptoshiba.com
Price: $249
For additional specifications and information, visit http://www.sdd.toshiba.com
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).
- refurbished 12" iBook 800,
128/30/CD-ROM, $1,049
- refurbished 12" iBook 800,
128/30/Combo, $1,229
- refurbished 14" iBook 800,
256/30/Combo, $1,239
- refurbished 12" iBook 900,
128/40/Combo, $1,149
For more deals on current or recently discontinued models, see
our Best PowerBook G4 Deals
and Best iBook Deals.
