Compiled by Charles Moore
and edited by
Dan Knight
- 2004.07.02
This week's PowerBook, iBook, and iPod headlines
Except as noted, prices are in U.S. dollars, bold links are to
outside sites, and regular links lead to 'Book profiles on Low End
Mac.
eWeek: IBM: PowerPC G5 to Go Mobile
eWeek's Mark Hachman
writes:
"The 64-bit PowerPC G5 processor will undoubtedly be a fixture
of Apple CEO Steve Jobs' keynote next week's Worldwide Developers
Conference. After all, it's the basis of the company's workstation
and server lines. But Mac professionals, and even Linux
programmers, will be waiting for word of a mobile version.
"According to officials of IBM Corp., the technology for a
notebook version of the PowerPC G5, a.k.a. the PowerPC 970 series
of processors, may be at hand."
Will the Inducing Infringement Act Kill the
iPod?
Magic
City Morning Star's IPR says:
"With Senator Orrin Hatch (R-Utah) and his colleagues pushing
hard to bring the Inducing Infringement of Copyright Act ("Induce
Act") to the full Senate for a vote, the Electronic Frontier
Foundation (EFF) is already dreading the loss of all technologies
this legislation has the potential to destroy. Although Hatch wants
the public to believe that the legislation will only hurt "the bad
guys" in the P2P wars, EFF argues that the Act is so sweeping that
"the good guys" will get taken down too. The Induce Act, which
would make it illegal to "induce" people to infringe copyright,
could potentially outlaw everything from CD burners to the
iPod.
"Because the Induce Act defines "intent" as being "determined by
a reasonable person taking into account all relevant facts," it's
unlikely that a technology company like Apple would be able to
easily dismiss any lawsuit brought against it. It would face the
prospect of an expensive trial, with all the attendant legal fees
and negative publicity. One such company, SonicBlue, recently
fought against a group of copyright holders in court over its
ReplayTV and spent close to $1,000,000 per month in legal fees
alone. In essence, this means that copyright owners can use the
'inducement' theory to inflict an arbitrarily large penalty on any
tech company that builds a device they don't like. That's not a
pleasant possibility for an innovator to face as he or she tries to
launch a new product."
Apple Masses Asked to Mobilise Against
Anti-Copying Legislation
theinquirer.net's Nick Farrell
reports:
"The Electronic Frontier Foundation is mobilising the loyal will
power of countless Apple users in a bid to get an anti-copying law
stymied.
"The EFF has realised that nothing is more scary than an Apple
user who fears that his reassuringly expensive toy may be taken
away from him. So the EFF has issued a press release that accuses
the record industry of taking Jobs Mob to the cleaners.
"The complaint, which mimics the format of an actual complaint
that record companies might draft, points out that "Apple
advertises that its 40 GB iPod can hold 'up to 10,000
songs....'"
"Fair's fair, the Inducing Infringement of Copyright Act is
being pushed at the behest of the recording industry which has
monomaniacally dragged file-sharing grannies and children into
court to protect its interests, so why shouldn't the free speechers
find people in the IT industry who have similar fanatical
beliefs?"
PowerPizza Laptop
Case
From the Fictional Products Department at Human Beans:
"Desirable laptops are desirable to thieves, too. Disguise your
laptop with a PowerPizza
and reduce the risk of getting it nicked....
"PowerPizza is designed so you can use your laptop without
removing it from it's disguise. They'll think your having pizza for
lunch again whilst you'll be preparing that last minute
presentation for the board, on your shiny new laptop.
"Each PowerPizza laptop disguise is handmade in London using
genuine Italian-style pizza boxes for maximum authenticity."
STM Loop Laptop Backpack
Transporting a 17" notebook requires a larger than average bag,
solid protection and disguise against theft. The Loop Series'
provide all this and more. The stylish and functional Loop's
feature waterproof zippered notebook sections with removable false
floors, creating a space that is perfect for any notebook with
displays measuring up to 17"
The zipper on the notebook section is self-healing and
waterproof. All fabrics are also water-resistant, providing
superior protection from the elements. There's ample space for
books, folders, peripherals, etc. Padded pockets abound for
portable music players, PDA's, cameras and mobile phones.
Loop General Features
- Front section with numerous pockets
- Rear section for books and folders
- Innovative headphone/cable portal
- Padded pockets to protect delicates
- Waterproof zipper on notebook section
- Ergonomic and comfortable wearing
- Removable and rugged key fob clip
- Rugged, removable nylon waist strap
- Contoured, comfortable rubber handle
Large Loop Specifics
- Accommodates up to 17" displays
- Generous 35 cu. liter capacity
- Small Loop Specifics
- Accommodates up to 12" displays
- Up to 14" in padded rear section
- 20 liter capacity
Sports Features
- Accommodates up to 15.5" displays
- Two zippered stowage compartments
- Ergonomic and comfortable wearing
- Trieste™ notebook suspension cell
- Portable music player compartment
- Water resistant 600D polyester
- Innovative headphone / cable portal
- Waist strap with hidden pocket
- Generous 35 cu. liter capacity
Sphere Features
- Accommodates up to 12" displays
- Up to 14" in padded rear section
- Front section with numerous pockets
- Innovative headphone/cable portal
- Padded pockets to protect delicates
- Waterproof zipper on notebook section
- Ergonomic and comfortable wearing
- Removable and rugged key fob clip
- Rugged, removable nylon waist strap
- Contoured, comfortable rubber handle
- 20 cu. liter capacity
Prices: $74.95 to $94.95
SideTrack 0.9 Advanced Trackpad Driver for
PowerBook/iBook
SideTrack
is a replacement driver for the trackpad (touchpad) found on
PowerBooks and iBooks. It brings many of the advanced trackpad
features found on Windows laptops to OS X.
SideTrack supports these features:
- Vertical scrolling at left or right edge of pad.
- Horizontal scrolling at top or bottom edge of pad.
- Map hardware button to left or right click.
- Map trackpad taps to no action, left click, left click drag
(with or without drag lock), or right click.
- Map trackpad corner taps to mouse buttons 1-6 or simulated
keystrokes.
- Compatible with uControl, including uControl's scroll
emulation.
SideTrack is fully multiuser aware, different users on the same
PowerBook can have different settings depending on their needs.
NOTE: SideTrack is presently a public beta. As a beta release
SideTrack may contain bugs and could potentially cause a kernel
panic. Please exercise appropriate caution when testing SideTrack
and be sure to read the FAQ for information on how to disable
SideTrack if it causes problems.
New in this version:
- [BETA] Extended beta expiration to November 30, 2004.
- [FEATURE] Reintroduce optional off-axis scroll zone checks.
Finger motions which are perpendicular to the scroll zone are
interpreted as mouse motion when the "Allow mouse motion to begin
in scroll areas" switch is active.
- [BUG] Corrected conflict with "Ignore While Typing" for
applications that use continuously held auto-repeating keys (i.e.
non-modifier keys). For example, Photoshop requires the spacebar to
be held continuously during some operations. Previously the
auto-repeating key would block any attempt at mouse motion. Fix is
to allow sufficient trackpad motion to always override the "Ignore
While Typing" setting.
- [BUG] Fix installation problem on machines where incorrect
clock setting has put kernel extension cache modification date far
in the future.
- [BUG] Added default calibration for April 2004
PowerBooks/iBooks.
- [BUG] Fix handling of virtual button state when corner taps are
used while drag is in progress.
- [BUG] Fix pref load handling for users logging in to the GUI as
root.
- [BUG] "Ignore trackpad when mouse is present" no longer detects
the Griffin PowerMate as an external mouse.
System requirements: Mac OS x 10.2 or higher
SideTrack is free betaware.
Wildeepz Transparent Urethane Display Cushions
for PowerBook G4, Dual-USB iBook
Wildeepz Display
Cushion Upgrade provides a solid, stable, and insulated display to
chassis interface for your PowerBook G4 or iBook when latched.
Uniform, display-to-top case clearance is maintained by these
transparent, expanded urethane cushions. These nearly invisible and
non-reflective spring-like pads effectively prevent the display
bezel from contacting the case, and aid in maintaining a gap
between the screen and lower chassis. The cushions are easily
applied to the display bezel. Finish abrasion is completely
eliminated, as well as screen abrasion in all but the most severe
use.
For total protection, combine Wildeepz with
Notebook ScreensavRz, a sheet-style screen protection, cleaning and
refinishing cloth. Wildeepz are backed with an advanced aerospace
adhesive that stays put, yet allows them to be easily removed,
without finish damage. 'Books fitted with Wildeepz exhibit a very
rigid feel which can only be described as "Awesome". An
installation template is included for quick and perfect placement
of the cushions. Includes 10 per set, more than enough to totally
outfit one PowerBook or iBook.
- Series 1: Fits 15" Titanium and 15" Aluminum PowerBooks.
- Series 2: Fits 12" and 17" Aluminum PowerBooks and all Dual-USB
iBooks.
Features:
- Transparent urethane is virtually invisible.
- No more "PowerBook G4" decal transfer to top case.
- Eliminates stress on hinges and latch mechanism.
- Reduces or eliminates unintentional unlatching when handling,
since latch tension is optimized.
- Cleans up lines on PowerBook and iBook. Blueprint perfect!
- Advanced adhesive stays put. Removes easily without harming
finish.
- Eliminates the need for a sheet-style screen protector in all
but the most extreme circumstances.
- For extreme duty, use Notebook ScreensavRz in conjunction with
Wildeepz cushions.
Price: $12.95 and available from the
ThinkDifferent Store.
Toshiba Develops Tiny Fuel Cell
The
BBC reports:
"A tiny prototype fuel cell the size of a thumb has been
developed by Toshiba.
"The Japanese electronics giant said the methanol fuel cell
could power a gadgets such as a digital music player for 20
hours....
"Toshiba hopes that by 2005, the fuel cells could be used in
handheld electronic devices instead of lithium-ion batteries.
"Fuel cells have been touted as a green power source for the
future as they produce electricity by converting hydrogen and
oxygen into water.
"The prototype developed by Toshiba measures 22 millimetres by
45 millimetres (0.88 inches by 1.80 inches) and weighs 8.5 grams
(0.29 ounces)."
Netgear Pocket-Size 54 Mbps Travel Wireless
Secure Router
NETGEAR, Inc. has
announced the launch of the breakthrough WGR101 54 Mbps Wireless
Travel Router, a pocket-size 802.11g router to enable wireless
access during travel. In addition to delivering up to 54 Mbps
wireless Internet access when linked to an existing wired Ethernet
connection, such as found in a hotel room or conference room, the
WGR101 also provides the added security of a "double firewall"
along with routing functionality, and can be used in both single
and multi-user environments.
Capable of providing up to five times the data throughput speed
and twice the range of 802.11b wireless networking solutions, the
small, attractive WGR101 has an internal antenna that eliminates
the concern of breakage during packing or transport. A convenient
carrying case is also included, enabling users to easily pack and
carry the router and other essential accessories when they
travel.
"As mobile workforces have made wireless Internet access part of
their daily lives, there is a natural emergence of the desire to do
the same during their travels. Now, a user with a notebook PC need
not be tethered to a desk in a hotel room to gain Internet access,
but can sit where most convenient. This is the inflection point to
the next level of wireless Internet access experience," explained
Vivek Pathela, NETGEAR Senior Director of Product Marketing. "This
product is ideal for the mobile salesperson or executive who wants
to establish a wireless connection in a hotel room with a broadband
Internet connection, but additionally can be used to connect a
group of people to the Internet wirelessly on an ad hoc basis in a
conference room. This multi-user feature can also be used in a LAN
party-type environment. There truly are a myriad of applications
that such a compact, portable wireless router is suited for."
The WGR101 54 Mbps Wireless Travel Router is 802.11b/g compliant
and delivers up to five times the data throughput speed and twice
the range of 802.11b wireless products. Measuring a mere 0.7 x 2.3
x 3.4 inches, the pocket-size WGR101 incorporates an internal
antenna to eliminate concerns of breakage during packing and
travel.
Though the WGR101 is small and compact, it packs a robust
security feature set including both NAT routing and Stateful Packet
Inspection (SPI) forming a "double firewall", VPN (IP-Sec and PPTP)
pass-through, 64 or 128-bit WEP encryption, wireless SSID
suppression, and is WiFi Protected Access (WPA) upgradeable. A
three-mode switch enables users to select between single-user and
multi-user modes, simplifying configuration. The WGR101 54 Mbps
Wireless Travel Router is backed by a one-year warranty and 24/7
technical support, and is available now via leading retailers,
direct marketers, ecommerce sites, and value-added resellers at a
retail price of $99.99.
Plextor Introduces External 12x
DVD±R/RW Burner
Plextor Corp., a leading developer and manufacturer of
high-performance digital media equipment, has announced the new
PX-712UF DVD+-R/RW drive with support for high-speed 12x DVD+R and
8x DVD-R recording. A dual interface supports both Hi-Speed USB 2.0
and full-speed compliant IEEE-1394 FireWire, enabling Plextor
customers to easily share a single external high-performance DVD/CD
recorder among multiple Apple Macintosh and Microsoft Windows-based
personal computer systems.
The PX-712UF gives users the ability to create, edit, and share
customized DVDs and CDs in less time than ever before. With support
for both DVD+R and DVD-R recording, the new Plextor drive helps
remove the risk of purchasing a DVD/CD burner that does not comply
with future DVD recording standards.
The PX-712UF supports 12x DVD+R and 8x DVD-R Writing; 4x DVD+RW
and 4x DVD-RW Rewriting; and 16x max DVD-Reading. The DVD/CD burner
also boasts high-speed 48x CD-R Writing, 24x CD-RW Rewriting, and
48x max CD-Reading. The drive includes a bundle of premium
Microsoft Windows-compatible software from Roxio, including Roxio
Easy CD & DVD Creator 6 - DVD Edition, and Roxio PhotoSuite 5
SE. For Macintosh users, Toast Lite versions 5 & 6 are also
included.
"The PX-700 series RDVD drives are Plextor's best selling
products at electronics retailers such as Best Buy," said Howard
Wing, vice president of sales and marketing for Plextor. "Feedback
from retail customers tells us that the PX-700 series drives are
popular because they plug and play with Microsoft Windows and Apple
Macintosh computers and they are easily transportable from location
to another, usually office to home and back again. Customers like
the versatility of burning CDs and DVDs, the support for virtually
every recording format, and the ability to attach to almost any
computer."
The Plextor PX-712UF is a highly versatile DVD/CD burner
specifically designed to deliver high-quality recording
performance. All Plextor DVD/CD drives are designed for easy
installation with Microsoft Windows-based personal computer systems
and Apple Computer's Power Macintosh desktop line.
The PX-712UF has an 8 MB buffer and features Buffer Underrun
Proof Technology to prevent buffer underrun errors and allow
multitasking. Burst data transfer rates of 480 Mbps (Hi-Speed USB
2.0) or 400 Mbps (IEEE 1394 FireWire) allow users to burn a 4.7 GB
DVD+R disc in approximately six minutes.
Lossless Linking/Zero Link technology enables users to perform
basic editing tasks directly on the DVD disc, so there is no need
to reload DVD content back to a PC to make minor changes, and no
need to re-burn an entire DVD after making small edits.
Plextor's bundled software package offers ease-of-use and
extensive functionality for Windows platforms. The PlexWriter
PX-712UF ships with Easy CD & DVD Creator 6 DVD Edition,
Roxio's number-one selling DVD/CD-recording software, providing
users the ability to create movie DVDs, data DVDs, music CDs, photo
slide shows synchronized with music, data CDs, and backup copies of
personal discs.
The PlexWriter PX-712UF drive also includes, Roxio PhotoSuite 5
SE for capturing, organizing, editing, and sharing digital photos;
and a 30-day trial version of Dantz Retrospect data backup
software. For Macintosh users, Toast Lite versions 5 & 6 are
also included.
The Plextor PX-712UF DVD+-R/RW drive is scheduled for shipment
to distributors and resellers in North and South America in August
2004. The PX-712UF drive has a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail
Price (MSRP) of $299.00 USD. All retail packages include unlimited
toll-free technical support and one-year full warranty.
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)
and the titanium vs. aluminum 15" PowerBook G4 at 1 GHz.
- iBook 300 MHz blueberry or
tangerine, 96/6/CD-ROM, $339.99
- Order with AirPort card installed, add $49.99
- Upgrade to 320 MB RAM, add $44.50
- 12" iBook G3/700, 128/
20/Combo, $649.99
- 15" PowerBook G4/667, 256/30/Combo, $999.99
- new 12" PowerBook G4/1.33 GHz,
256/60/Combo, AirPort Extreme, installed PC2700 SO DIMM 512 MB DDR
333, $1,709
- refurb 12" PowerBook G4/1 GHz,
256/40/Combo, $1,159
- new 12" iBook G4/1 GHz,
768/30/Combo, AppleCare, $1,419
- 12" iBook G4/1 GHz,
256/30/Combo, $995
- refurb 12" iBook G4/800,
128/30/CD-ROM, $749
- refurb 12" iBook G4/800,
256/30/Combo, $779
- refurb 12" iBook G4/1 GHz,
256/30/Combo, $949
- refurb 14" iBook G4/1 GHz,
256/40/Combo, $1,099
- refurb 12" PowerBook G4/1.33
GHz, 256/60/Combo, AirPort Extreme, $1,349
- refurb 12" PowerBook G4/1.33
GHz, 256/60/SuperDrive, AirPort Extreme, $1,549
- refurb 15" PowerBook G4/1 GHz, 256/60/Combo, $1,499
- refurb 17" PowerBook G4/1 GHz,
512/60/SuperDrive, AirPort Extreme, $1,999
- refurb 17" PowerBook G4/1.33
GHz, 512/80/SuperDrive, AirPort Extreme, $2,199
- refurb 17" PowerBook G4/1.5 GHz,
512/80/SuperDrive, AirPort Extreme, $2,399
For more deals on current or recently discontinued models, see
our Best PowerBook G4 Deals,
Best iBook G4 Deals, and Best iBook G3 Deals.
