The 'Book Review

New 60 GB 7200 RPM Notebook Drive, BookEndz for 12" PowerBook, NeverWire USB, and More

This Week's PowerBook and iBook News

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 BookEndz Docking Stationand 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, Shinza TiBook Casethe 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 NeverWire USBand 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).

Small Dog Electronics

Baucom Computers

MacResQ

ExperCom

For more deals on current or recently discontinued models, see our Best PowerBook G4 Deals and Best iBook Deals.

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