Compiled by Charles Moore
and edited
by Dan Knight
- 2006.03.10
This Week's MacBook, PowerBook, and iBook News
New this week, TechRestore is offering our readers a $25
discount on any PowerBook or iBook in stock. See Bargain 'Books for details.
Everyone seems to be writing about the MacBook Pro this week,
and Bare Feats has benchmarked the 2.0 GHz MacBook Pro against a
2.0 GHz upgraded PowerBook G4. For the most part, reviewers are
impressed with Apple's latest notebook computer - one even says the
new MagSafe connector "withstands Simpson-scale idiocy."
Demonstrating how the Mac is making inroads, we have three PC
Cards with Mac drivers in this week's news roundup, along with
perhaps the smallest USB flash drive to date. All this and more in
The 'Book Review.
All prices are in US dollars unless otherwise noted.
General Apple and Mac desktop news is covered in The Mac News Review. iPod news is covered
in The iNews Review. News about
Apple's transition to Intel CPUs and other Intel developments is
covered in The Macintel Report.
MacBook Pro News
Products
MacBook Pro News
2 GHz Shootout: MacBook Pro vs. Upgraded
PowerBook G4
Bare Feats' rob-ART morgan says:
"We finally got our hands on a MacBook Pro. But what's really cool
is that we got our hands on a PowerBook G4 that has been upgraded to
2 GHz courtesy of DayStar! So we compared the performance of
the two 2 GHz laptops. Since the MacBook Pro has two cores, we
also tested it with one disabled (using CHUD tools) to see how a
2 GHz Intel Core Solo would do against an equally clocked
G4.
"In addition, we wanted to know how the new MacBook Pro compared
to an iMac Core Duo running at the same 2 GHz as well as the
Dual Core G5 Power Mac running at 2 GHz. So this is really a
'Two Gigahertz Bonanza.'"
Some findings:
- Disabling the MacBook's second core made a big difference on
some tests, none on others.
- Using matching pairs of memory makes the MacBook Pro 2.5-3.5%
faster.
- Link: Shootout:
MacBook Pro 2.0 GHz versus PowerBook 2.0 GHz (!)
MacBook Pro Launches OS X and Apps Faster than
PowerBook G4
ZD Net's Jason D. O'Grady reports:
"The MacBook Pro is
unquestionably faster than the PowerBook G4 it replaces, but exactly
how much depends on how you use it. Apple sells the MacBook Pro as
'up to four times the horsepower of the PowerBook G4' but that's
purely based on the SPECint and SPECfp benchmarks from Standard
Performance Evaluation Corporation (SPEC). Apple's benchmarks were
compiled using the IBM compiler and a beta version of the Intel
compiler for Mac OS.
"But SPEC benchmarks don't tell the whole story. I tested one
aspect of the MacBook Pro's speed that affects me daily and is a
better barometer of real world performance: application launch
times. I benchmarked the MacBook Pro (2.0 GHz) against a PowerBook G4 (1.5 GHz) while launching
14 (native and Rosetta) applications and here are the
results…."
- Link: MacBook Pro
Benchmarks: Launch Times
MacBook Pro 'Has Looks and Brains'
The New York Times' David Pogue says:
"Remember the famous five stages of grief: denial, anger,
bargaining, depression and acceptance? if you're a fan of the
Macintosh computer, meet the five stages of switching to Apple's
new laptop: lust, anticipation, delight, dismay and waiting.
"Ordinarily, it's not really news when a computer company
introduces a new laptop model. You don't see newspaper headlines
blaring, 'Gateway's New P32-XC5 Adds Faster Processor, Third USB
Port.'
"But the new Apple MacBook
Pro ($2,000 and up) is a different story. Although it looks
nearly identical to the company's existing 15-inch PowerBook,
something radical is going on under the hood....
"Apple calls the MacBook 'the finest laptop in the world.' In
truth, a more accurate description would be 'the finest laptop in
the world, with a small serving of disappointment on the
side.'"
- Link:
Apple Laptop Has Looks and Brains
- Link: MacBook Pro:
Spectacular with a Dash of Disappointment
Ars Technica Reviews MacBook Pro
Ars Technica's Jacqui Cheng has posted a long (seven pages)
review of the MacBook Pro:
"The first generation of MacBook Pros are obviously meant to
be the next step after the last model of G4 PowerBook, the 1.67 GHz G4 aluminum PowerBook that
was announced in October of 2005, a mere three months prior to the
official unveiling of the MacBook Pro. Alas, the low-end MacBook
Pro was originally meant to also be 1.67 GHz (albeit faster because
of the dual core chip), but even with the last-minute speed bump,
the MacBook Pro is near identical in dimensions to its G4
predecessor in many ways. There are a few very subtle
differences.
"The MacBook Pro is 0.1 inches deeper, 0.4 inches wider, 0.1
inches thinner, and exactly the same weight as the 15" Aluminum
PowerBook G4. An 0.4 inch width difference is a seemingly
insignificant yet important detail to make note of, as it makes
squeezing the MacBook Pro into previously-owned sleeves, bags, and
accessories made for other 15" Apple notebooks something like
desperately trying to zip up that pair of tight high school jeans
while laying on your back and holding your breath - it may
technically 'fit' but, it doesn't quite, if you know what I
mean.
"As a proud longtime owner of a 15-inch G4 PowerBook up until
about six months ago, I had collected a number of these accessories
(not the least of which being my oh-so-trendy Timbuk2 Commuter bag,
specifically made for the 15" Apple notebook and bought at an Apple
Retail Store) and had kept them around in anticipation of new
PowerBooks, er, MacBook Pros, around the corner. Attempting to slip
my MacBook Pro into the built-in sleeve in my Timbuk2 bag as I was
running off to work this morning was, to put it politely, rather
snug. I'm still not sure how I feel about this.
"'Honey, that sleeve does NOT make your butt look fat!'"
- Link: MacBook
Pro
MacBook Pro a Promising Start to Intel-Powered
Apple Era
The Wall Street Journal's Walter S. Mossberg says:
"I am writing these words on a sleek, fast laptop computer
powered by an Intel processor. But unlike the vast majority of
Intel-powered laptops, this machine isn't running Microsoft
Windows. It's the latest Macintosh laptop from Apple Computer, and
the first Apple portable to run on Intel processors. Like all Apple
computers, it uses the company's excellent Mac OS X operating
system instead of Windows.
"The new laptop, called a MacBook Pro, is the successor to
Apple's PowerBook models, and at first glance, it looks just like a
PowerBook. But the MacBook Pro is quite different, and not merely
because it uses a modern, dual-core Intel chip instead of the aging
G4 processor its predecessor used.
"I've been testing the MacBook Pro and comparing it to both a
late-model PowerBook and a roughly similar Windows laptop, the new
H-P Pavilion dv5000t. All three machines have 15-inch-wide screen
displays.
"My verdict: The MacBook Pro is better than the PowerBook and
better than the H-P, though it has some drawbacks. It is faster
than previous Apple laptops, but the speedup isn't as great as
Apple's claims suggest. At a starting price of $1,999, the same as
the PowerBook it replaces, the MacBook Pro costs more than the H-P.
But in my opinion, the price premium is more than justified by its
superior design and features."
- Link: MacBook Pro
Offers Promising Start to Era of Intel-Powered Apple
MagSafe 'Withstands Simpson-scale Idiocy'
Personal Tech Pipeline's Glenn Fleishman
"Call me Homer Simpson. I stand before the apotheosis of Apple's
new computer architecture direction, a MacBook Pro containing an
Intel Core Duo, and all I can say is, 'Cord goes in, cord goes out,
cord goes in, cord goes out.'
"One of the MacBook Pro's many new features is MagSafe, a
magnetically coupled power cord connection that can withstand
powerful yanking without taking the computer with it. Mechanical
connections wear out; this withstands Simpson-scale idiocy.
"Fortunately, Lisa Simpson kicks in at some point, and I start
reveling in the speed, design, light weight, and thin form factor
of this completely overhauled computer which started shipping to
consumers in February."
- Link: Review:
Apple MacBook Pro
MacBook Availability Already Priced into
Shares
Forbes' Maya Roney reports:
"Piper Jaffray research analyst Gene Munster maintained an
'outperform' rating and $103 price target on Apple Computer, but
said there may be downside to his fiscal second-quarter Mac sales
estimates due to limited MacBook Pro availability.
"'We are recommending purchase of Apple shares, given that
controversy surrounding limited availability of the new MacBook Pro
appears to be priced in,' wrote the analyst in a research report
Tuesday. 'Apple will ramp MacBook Pro production in the near
term.'"
- Link:
Apple's MacBook Dilemma Already Priced Into Shares
Products
Hubbel Book Mount Laptop Mount
PR: The Apple notebook line is one of the best in the
industry. One of the purposes of our PowerBook 17" is to serve as a
desktop replacement when it's at "home". However, we frequently
take it out on jobs. Seems that when we come back, though, the desk
is always cluttered where the PowerBook used to be and we have to
clear away space again. So, to combat the problem, we designed the
Book mount. A simple, yet totally effective and sturdy wall mount
kit. Not only that, it's attractive and unobtrusive.
Since notebook computers are
designed to be portable, a mounting kit that didn't allow you to
easily mount, unmount would be kind of pointless. The Book mount
lets you simply unplug your cables and slide your Apple notebook
out easily. Takes less than 10 seconds to remove the computer and
take it with you
Cables can be a bit unsightly streaming from the sides of the
computer down along the wall. The Book mounts cable management
system routes the cables behind the mount into a single channel.
Moreover, when your notebook isn't docked, the cables stay put
making it easy to reconnect and get up and running quickly when you
put the notebook back in. If you're using a fat DVI cable, we even
have a channel on the MacBook and PowerBook 17" Book mounts that
let you route that cable easily along the base of the mount.
The Book mount allows you to get at each and every video, USB,
FireWire, audio, power, Ethernet, and modem port on every model. No
matter which Apple notebook you own , the optical drive remains
accessible when the computer is mounted. You can safely eject your
discs as well since the optical drive is never facing downward.
Mounts vertically or horizontally - with only two screws
The Book mount is designed so that you could mount your notebook
either horizontally or vertically. Simply use the two provided wood
screws and tap into a wall stud. You're done. The 1/4" (6.35mm)
thick cast acrylic that the Book mount uses is a solid mounting
surface that will provide years of service. The tabs and stops are
positioned in such a way to provide maximum airflow around the
computer. We've taken care to not block any airflow ports on any of
the models.
Optional Backlight kit
Apple notebooks look cool mounted on the wall, but the
backlighting simply brings everything to a new level. Simply put,
it's like having a backlit piece of art on your wall.
There is a Book mount for every current Apple notebook model.
Each unit was designed for the specific model of notebook, then
tested to ensure correct fit and alignment. Each Book mount is
designed precisely for the model of Apple notebook you mount. We
then use clear acrylic for the PowerBook 12" and 17" and MacBook
Pro 15". White acrylic for the iBook 12" and 14".
A PowerBook 17" mounted in the Book mount. Notice how little of
the mount you actually see when the computer is docked in the
mount.
- Link: Hubbel Book
Mount Laptop Mount
PowerBook Connect a No-Surgery, Wireless
Signal Booster for AirPort-Equipped PowerBooks
PR: The PowerBook Connect is the easiest way to get
increased wireless performance without disassembling your
PowerBook. It sets up simply using a web browser. Once setup, no
extra steps or hardware are required. PowerBook Connect is only
$199.95, and while supplies last customers will get their choice of
a PowerBook Handle for their 12, 15 or 17 inch AL PowerBook.
PowerBook Connect allows AirPort and AirPort Extreme-enabled
PowerBooks and desktops increased wireless range without opening up
the computer or attaching to the internal AirPort cards. PowerBook
Connect preserves your AppleCare contract. It requires power but
can get that power either from USB, AC adapter or using an internal
battery model ($229.95 ). It does not have to attach to the
PowerBook either. It can simply sit on the desk, next to the
computer. No cables or other cumbersome connections.
PowerBook Connect is between the internal AirPort card and the
access point (commonly an AirPort Base Station). It ampllifies the
wireless signals going in and out of the computer. You connect to
different networks just like you always do - no extravagant
procedures to memorize.
What are the differences between and Apple AirPort Express and
the PowerBook Connect? Although they do some of the same things,
they work differently. AirPort Express cannot perform this well due
in part to the smaller buffer inside the AirPort Express which
slows performance. It can only be powered from AC power - limiting
mobility and changing networks requires a lot of extra work.
PowerBook Connect eliminates all of these limitations. Also, with
the PowerBook Connect you can attach external antennas, unlike the
AirPort Express where you don't have to have access to the RF port
connector. The PowerBook Connect generates 4-5 times more RF output
and has a more sensitive receiver than the AirPort Express. The
PowerBook Connect works on all 802.11b/g systems, Mac or
Windows.
So how can you get five times the normal range with that tiny
little antenna? That little antenna has 200 milliwatts of RF power
- the rating that wireless products are measured by. Your PowerBook
has about 30 milliwatts of RF power packed into that sleek
PowerBook case. Not very impressive. Going from 30 to 200
milliwatts is what gives you that extra range and speed. Impress
those nerds in the airport the next time you fly when you whip out
your little PowerBook Connect and start really hammering the
wireless network in the terminal building. You'll give those
Windows guys wireless networking envy.
Want more options? How about using the PowerBook Connect with
your Apple PowerBook Pismo, Wallstreet, titanium, aluminum 12, 15
and 17-inch models and even the brand new MacBook Pro Intel
laptops. You can even use it with the new dual-core iMacs too. Not
only can you connect to most PowerBooks, but you can also choose
any access point for your wireless connection.
You also can use any popular wireless network hardware include
access points from LinkSys, Belkin, dLink and of course, Apple
AirPort and AirPort Extreme Base Stations. That means just about
any 802.11b or 802.11g networks and your Mac OS X or later
operating system. You can even move your PowerBook Connect from
your PowerBook to any other WiFi ready computer - Mac or
Windows.
QuickerTek's new PowerBook Connect combines a more powerful 2dBi
antenna than came in your stock PowerBook, with a new design that
does not require installation inside the PowerBook. You don't have
to open the computer and work with the innards. And let's say that
down the road you want even more power, you can add one of
QuickerTek's antennas for even greater wireless performance!
QuickerTek has been a recognized leading innovator of antennas
and RF products for Apple Power Macintosh, iMac, PowerBook and soon
for MacBook Pro computers. QuickerTek products can be purchased
online and from authorized dealers.
- Link: PowerBook
Connect
Petito, the Ultra Fast and Small USB 2.0
Flash Drive
PR: Designed primarily for mobile
professionals, Petito is a reliable, exceptionally high-speed and a
high-capacity flash drive, featuring up to 30 MB/s (200x) data
transfer rate and containing up to 1 GB data storage.
Measuring at just 1.65" x 0.8", not only is Petito ideal for
transporting data, digital images, and presentations, it is also
perfect for you to carry on your keychain, mobile phone, or for you
to wear as your necklace. ATP will exhibit the Petito as well as
its latest products at the upcoming CeBIT tradeshow in Hannover,
Germany (Booth location: Hall 26 Stand C67 Booth 9) from March 9 to
15.
"With a wide-ranging choice of flash drives out in the market
today, Petito distinguishes itself with its stylish and compact
design," said Danny Lin, ATP VP of Sales and Marketing. "Do not be
mislead by its size, though, because at up to 30MB/s transfer rate
and 1GB, Petito will exceed your expectations with its performances
in terms of speed and capacity."
Built with ATP's distinctive System-In-Package (SIP) technology,
Petito comes with superior quality and durability, an attribute
shared by all ATP memory products. Complete encapsulation provides
Petito with ample protection from water, shock, dust, and ESD.
Another unique feature of Petito is its increased security,
allowing users to create a password for a better data
protection.
Key Features
- Dimensions: 9.4mm x 17.6mm x 36.3mm (D x W x L)
- Weight: less than 8g
- Up to 30 MB/s data transfer rate, fully compatible with USB
specification version 2.0 and 1.1
- Powered by USB bus - no external power is required
- Durable solid-state storage - 10 years data retention
- Hot Plug & Play - enable you to install and uninstall
Petito anytime
- Security application - allow you to create a unique
password
Petito is available in a variety of colors and capacities
ranging from 256 MB to 1 GB. Gold and silver Petito are
available immediately, while dark blue and titanium Petito will be
available later in April. For more detailed product information,
visit:
- Link: Petito
USB 2.0 Flash Drive
PowerAid 'Universal Battery' a Must Have
Device
PR: US Modular, a designer and manufacturer of personal
memory, power, and storage products, announced today that the
company is bringing to market a universal portable battery that has
the power to run any notebook computer or DC-powered device - all
from one unit. The PowerAid by US Modular runs on lithium-ion
technology to keep the unit lightweight but still provides the
highest level of electrochemical potential and energy content.
"The PowerAid was designed after a long business trip where I
found myself constantly untangling power cords for presentations
and when my cell phone went dead, which carries all my files; I
knew that US Modular could produce a better way to power-up," said
US Modular CEO Nick Payzant. "The PowerAid will be the first of
many advancements in battery technology that we hope to produce
this year."
The PowerAid adapter kit includes 10 connectors to fit most
laptops, as well as an automotive accessories style adapter to
power cell phones, PDAs, laptops and other devices while on the
road. With the PowerAid, worry and disappointment are alleviated.
Small and sleek in design, the PowerAid weighs in at 8 ounces and
is the size of a wallet. The product, first aimed at executives, is
the perfect option for anyone who needs power while on the go.
Features:
- Lithium-Ion powered
- Includes AC charger, USB cable and adapter kit
- Adapter kit features 10 UL-approved connectors
- Special adapter to power cell phones and other devices with
automotive accessory style (cigarette lighter) chargers
- Incorrect: Output power: 45Wh (Watt Hours)
- Output voltage: 16V,19V selectable
- Incorrect: capacity: 3000mAh
- LED power level indicator
- Charging voltage: 16.8V
- Charging time: 5 to 6 hours with AC charger
- 100% OEM Compatible
Priced at $99 MSRP, the PowerAid will begin shipping the first
week of April.
- Link: US Modular
Sewell USB 2.0 PC Card Adapter has Mac
Support
PR: The Sewell USB 2.0
PCMCIA Card is a quick, easy way to add USB 2.0 ports to your
PowerBook. Just plug the card in and you are ready to go.
This is a solution for using any USB devices with your laptop.
It will work with all USB devices, and up to 480 Mbps with USB 2.0
devices.
Simply plug the card into your laptop, install the necessary
software (included) and you are ready to go
Specifications:
- USB Versions: Compliant with USB 2.0 and USB 1.1
- PCMCIA: Standard Type II, 32-bit CardBus
- Ports: 2 external
System Requirements:
- Windows 98 SE, ME, 2000, or XP or Mac OS 10.1 and higher
Pentium 233 MHz or faster
- 32 MB RAM or more
- Available PCMCIA Slot
Price: $29.95
- Link: Sewell USB 2.0 PCMCIA
Card
Black Box USB 2.0 PCMCIA Card Compatible with
OS X
The Black Box USB 2.0 PCMCIA card
lets you add 2 USB 2.0 ports to your existing laptop. The card
installs instantly and is fully plug and play compatible. It also
offers something that most PCMCIA adapter cards don't: the Black
Box seal of quality.
Price: $79.95
Specifications
- 480 Mbps top transfer speed
- USB 1.1 backwards compatible
- 2 USB 2.0 Ports
- Plug and Play capability
- Compatible with Windows 98/SE/Me/2000/XP and Mac OS X
- Link: Black Box
USB 2.0 PCMCIA Card
Combo USB 2.0/FireWire PCMCIA Card with
Mac Driver
New from
Unixtar:
- Compliant with USB 2.0 Spec.
Supports high-speed (480 Mbps), full-speed (12 Mbps) and low-speed
(1.5 Mbps) data
- Compliant IEEE 1394-1995 Standard and 1394a Supplement V
2.0
Data transfer rate 100/200/400 Mbps
- One USB A Type downstream and One IEEE1394 downstream port
- Standard PCMCIA type II compliance
- Plug-n-Play compatible
- Link: USB
2.0 & 1394 (FireWire) Combo PCMCIA Carbus
- Link: OS X
driver download
Bargain 'Books
Bargain 'Books are used unless otherwise indicated. New and
refurbished units have a one-year Apple warranty and are eligible
for AppleCare.
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 (VGA) and
G4/667 (DVI), the titanium vs.
aluminum 15" PowerBook G4 at 1 GHz, and 1.25 GHz to 1.5 GHz 15"
PowerBooks.
PowerBook and iBook profiles linked in our Portable Mac Index.
I'm pleased to announce that TechRestore is offering a $25
discount to The 'Book Review
readers off any PowerBook or iBook in stock. Just enter the code
CWM during checkout when ordering online. The coupon code is valid
from now through 2007.112.31.
- used 15" PowerBook G4/1.25 GHz, 512/80/Combo, BT,
$1,349.99
- used 17" PowerBook G4/1 GHz, 512/60/SuperDrive, APX,
$1,279.99
- PowerBook 1400cs, 16/775
MB/floppy, new battery, AC, $99.99
- PowerBook 5300cs/100 MHz,
8/775 MB/floppy, $49.99
- Apple Newton eMate 300
Get the original while you can! Wegeners just acquired a qty of
these little babies at auction. Includes ONLY the machine, stylus,
the battery, and a power pack. The software is installed, and is
available elsewhere for download. These have the standard, PC Card
slot, etc. - a very cool web/email/communications tool, at a
dirt-cheap price. Units are guaranteed working for 30 days.
Batteries are included, but Wegeners can't guarantee the longevity.
- eMate complete with power pack - $59.99
- eMate complete NO power pack - $39.99
- NEW eMate battery (Just in-new OEM batt's) - $21.99
- Extra eMate charger/power pack - $19.99
- refurb 12" iBook G4/1.2 GHz, 256/30/Combo, APX, $719
- refurb 14" iBook G4/1.33 GHz, 256/60/Combo, APX, $899
- refurb 12" PowerBook G4/1.5 GHz, 512/80/SuperDrive, APX, BT
2.0, $1,199
- refurb 17" PowerBook G4/1.5 GHz, 512/80/SuperDrive, APX,
$1,699
- used 12" iBook G3/600, 256/20/CD, $390
- used 15" PowerBook G4/667, 256/20/Combo, $625
- extra 512 MB, add $89
For more deals on current or recently discontinued models, see
our best 15" MacBook Pro deals,
our best 17" MacBook Pro deals,
12" PowerBook G4 deals, 15" aluminum PowerBook G4 deals, 17" PowerBook G4 deals, titanium PowerBook G4 deals, iBook G4 deals, PowerBook G3 deals, and iBook G3 deals.
