The 'Book Review

MacBook Improved, Apple's 9.9% Notebook Market Share, 3 GB MacBook Upgrade, and More

This Week's Mac Notebook News

Compiled by Charles Moore and edited by Dan Knight - 2007.05.18

This Week's MacBook, PowerBook, and iBook News

All prices are in US dollars unless otherwise noted.

General Apple and Mac desktop news is covered in The Mac News Review.

News & Opinion

Products and Services

Software

Bargain 'Books

News & Opinion

Apple Updates the MacBook

Apple on Tuesday released a much-anticipated MacBook notebook refresh. Upgraded specifications include faster Intel Core 2 Duo processors (but not the new Intel Santa Rosa CPUs), 1 GB of memory, and larger hard drives in every model.

The "Revision C" MacBook form factor remains unchanged, and features include built-in 802.11n wireless networking for up to five times the performance and twice the range of 802.11g.

The updated MacBook comes in three models: white 2.0 GHz and 2.16 GHz MacBook models, and a black 2.16 GHz MacBook model.

The 2.0 GHz white MacBook, for a suggested retail price of $1,099, includes:

  • 13.3" glossy widescreen 1280 x 800 display
  • 2.0 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo processor
  • 667 MHz frontside bus
  • 1 GB of 667 MHz DDR2 SDRAM, expandable to 2 GB
  • 80 GB Serial ATA hard drive running at 5400 rpm, with Sudden Motion Sensor
  • a slot-load Combo (DVD-ROM/CD-RW) optical drive
  • Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 950
  • Mini-DVI out (adapters for DVI, VGA, and Composite/S-Video sold separately)
  • built-in iSight video camera
  • Gigabit Ethernet port
  • built-in AirPort Extreme 802.11n wireless networking and Bluetooth 2.0+EDR
  • two USB 2.0 ports and one FireWire 400 port
  • one audio line in and one audio line out port, each supporting both optical digital and analog
  • Scrolling TrackPad
  • the infrared Apple Remote
  • 60 Watt MagSafe Power Adapter

The 2.16 GHz white MacBook, for a suggested retail price of $1,299, differences:

  • 2.16 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo processor
  • 120 GB Serial ATA hard drive running at 5400 rpm, with Sudden Motion Sensor
  • a slot-load 8x SuperDrive with double-layer support (DVD+R DL/DVD±RW/CD-RW) optical drive

MacBookThe 2.16 GHz black MacBook, for a suggested retail price of $1,499, differences:

  • 160 GB Serial ATA hard drive running at 5400 rpm, with Sudden Motion Sensor

Additional build-to-order options for the MacBook include the ability to upgrade to 120 GB or 160 GB (5400 rpm) or a 200 GB (4200 rpm) hard drive, up to 2 GB DDR2 SDRAM, Apple USB Modem, Apple Mini-DVI to DVI adapter, Apple Mini-DVI to VGA adapter, Apple MagSafe Airline Adapter and the AppleCare Protection Plan. Additional build-to-order options also include preinstalled copies of iWork '06, Logic Express 7, Final Cut Express HD 3.5 and Aperture 1.5.

*AirPort Extreme is based on an IEEE 802.11n draft specification. Actual performance will vary based on range, connection rate, site conditions, size of network and other factors.
**iChat AV and videoconferencing require broadband internet connection; fees may apply.

Apple Grabs 9.9% of Retail Notebook Sales

BetaNews's Nate Mook reports:

"For the month of March, Apple was the fourth largest seller of notebook computers, grabbing nearly 10 percent of the market behind Gateway, Toshiba and HP. The retail numbers, consolidated by NPD Group, do not include Dell, which only sells directly.

"Apple's 9.9 percent share in March puts the company back in the top five notebook retailers after it dropped out in February. Apple previously held a 10.1 percent market share in January. Toshiba led the market in March with a share of 26.2 percent, closely followed by HP at 23.9 percent. Gateway placed third with 13 percent of the market.

"Perhaps more importantly for the company, Apple also for the first time placed in the top five retailers of desktop computers thanks to strong sales of its iMac."

Editor's note: This only counts retail sales, so Dell isn't included, nor are sales from Apple's online store. dk

Apple Acknowledges the 'Cracked' MacBook Issue

Hardmac's Lionel reports:

"We only received this information yesterday, but since April 26th, Apple has officially acknowledged the 'cracked' MacBook issue, and has sent instructions to the certified Apple Centers for performing the exchange of the keyboard and trackpad when necessary...."

Flash MacBook Plans 'Confirmed'

Macworld UK's Jonny Evans reports:

"Apple will release a laptop featuring solid state flash memory 'soon', according to Sequoia Capital's Jason Calacanis.

"Speaking on his regular podcast, Calacanis claimed to have information from a 'well-placed source' that confirms the plans.

"Reports claiming the release of such an Apple notebook have been circulating for months now, while Intel's recent release to manufacturers of its new 'Santa Rosa' laptop processor has added more fuel to these flames."

How to Upgrade Your MacBook's Hard Drive

MacInstruct says:

"Upgrading your MacBook's internal hard drive is a simple way to store more documents, music, movies, applications and other files on your new Apple portable.

"Hard drives (or hard disk drives) are large capacity storage devices which store all of your data - everything from Mac OS X to your latest iTunes music album. Adding a larger capacity internal hard drive will allow you to store more data without having to plug in external devices. This can also help alleviate slow-downs, errors and other weirdness that can occur when your hard drive starts to get full. It's generally recommended that you keep 5% or 5 GB of space free (whichever is larger) to alleviate such issues. If you're running out of space, it's time to consider an upgrade!

"We know this tutorial is a little long, but don't worry - we've divided it into three easy sections. Part one discusses preparation and backup; part two focuses on installing your new hard drive; and part three talks about data restoration. Be sure to read through our instructions first! Before you do anything, you should understand why you're doing it. We also recommend that you print this page and keep it for reference."

12" PowerBook Teardown

PowerBook teardownWired reports:

"I got a call from a friend with a dead 12" PowerBook yesterday. There was a horrible noise coming from the drive, and I had to fix it. I booted the Mac into FireWire Target mode (hold down the T key on boot and the Mac turns into a FireWire drive). We managed to pull off some data, but the copy would stick after around 5 GB of transfer.

"The next part was the fun part. New drive! A full rundown with photos awaits you after the jump."

Intel Mac Temperature Database

This site will help collect and show the temperatures of Apple Macintosh computers using the new processors by Intel. All new computers that haven't faced the trail of time will have problems and issues that can make users mad and furious. As with the new MacBook Pro machines where were, and still are, problems with heat dispensing. After scouting forums and help sites for information about what temperatures I can expect on a new MacBook, but that turned out to be harder and more scattered than I first imagined. That's the main motive behind this site and it didn't take too long to setup as I had the base code handy from another site.

  • Total entries: 428
  • Most popular machine: MacBook 13-inch 2.0 GHz White
  • Popular CPU freq: 2.00 GHz
  • Popular memory size: 1.0 GB
  • Popular HDD size: 80 GB
  • Mac OS X version: 10.4.6
  • Avg. ambient temp: 23.9
  • Avg. HDD temp: 42.1
  • Whine audiable [sic]: 117
  • Whine not audiable [sic]: 219
  • Moo audiable [sic]: 73
  • Moo not audiable [sic]: 227

Editor's note: You'll find some reports that include "0 °C" temperatures. A shame they don't weed these out of the database or clearly differentiate between Core Duo and Core 2 Duo models. dk

PowerBook Lower Memory Slot Failure Petition

A Petition for Apple Computer, Inc. Regarding Out Of Warranty 1.5 GHz and 1.67 GHz PowerBooks

This is a petition to get recognition for the fact that many PowerBooks have a fault with the lower memory slot. Up until today, Apple does not fix this problem out of warranty or acknowledge that there might be a production fault in all recent 15" aluminium PowerBooks.

Some very unfortunate Apple customers have had this lower memory slot break and repaired - either within warranty or outside of it - and have had it break a second time, after an alleged fix. This leads us to believe that Apple does not know how to permanently fix this problem, or does not want to allocate the funds to do that.

To clarify, the fault has apparently manifested itself in the following PowerBook models, according to user accounts taken from the Apple Discussion Forum, located at http://discussions.info.apple.com:

  • PowerBook G4, 15", 1.67 GHz
  • PowerBook G4, 15". 1.5 GHz
  • PowerBook G4, 15", 1.33 GHz
  • PowerBook G4, 15", 1.25 GHz
  • PowerBook G4, 15", 1 GHz

As customers, we demand recognition of this fault and the assurance that our PowerBooks will be repaired at no additional cost outside of warranty.

Sincerely,
The Undersigned (2813 signatures when I last checked)

ComputerShopper's Complete Santa Rosa Coverage

PR: ComputerShopper.com has launched a series of reviews, technology overviews, and news covering the new Intel Santa Rosa platform for laptops at computershopper.com/santarosa/. The hands-on content is designed to help consumers and business users alike understand the benefits of Intel's latest Centrino platform, which is designed to deliver better performance, longer battery life, and faster WiFi.

ComputerShopper.com is committed to bringing the latest technology coverage to its readers, offering hands-on reviews that empower readers with the information they need to make decisions. The editors tested new laptops from Fujitsu, Gateway, Hewlett-Packard, and Lenovo.

In addition to expert reviews, the coverage includes an overview of Intel's new platform that explains how the technology works and how it can benefit users. Chief among the benefits are the inclusion of second-generation Intel mobile processors. These new Intel Core 2 Duo CPUs (code-named Merom) feature increased front side bus speed and dynamic front side bus switching, both of which enable faster performance and better battery life.

New laptops can also take advantage of Santa Rosa's NAND flash-memory caching (called Intel Turbo Memory), which reduces power-up time and improves program and data access. Graphics performance is enhanced by the Intel Mobile 965 Express chipset with Intel's GMA X3100 graphics technology, which meets GUI requirements for Windows Vista Aero. In addition, corporate customers will appreciate the business-oriented Intel Santa Rosa platform, called Centrino Pro, which incorporates Intel's advanced vPro security technologies (consumer-oriented Santa Rosa notebooks will be dubbed Centrino Duo).

Products and Services

OWC Offers Up to 3 GB of Memory for Latest MacBooks

PR: Other World Computing (OWC) announced that their 1 GB, 2 GB, and 3 GB modules/upgrade kits are immediately available for Apple's new MacBook 2.0 GHz and 2.16 GHz laptop models introduced May 15th, 2007. Compared to the factory option cost of $175 to upgrade from 1 GB to 2 GB, the OWC 2 GB Memory upgrade kit (2 x 1 GB Modules) offers considerable savings priced at just $99.97.

In addition, OWC also offers a $20 rebate on the trade-in of 2 Apple 512 MB memory modules, making the net savings almost $100. OWC's 3 GB Upgrade Kit is priced at $177.99 (less with trade-in), only $3 more than the $175 that Apple charges to go to only 2 GB from 1 GB. That's 50% more memory at almost the same price.

MacBook users will love the opportunity for improved performance for audio/video, photo, 3D modeling applications, and more, where the extra memory really makes a difference in their computer's performance. OWC memory is easily user installable with a free online video installation guide and a lifetime Advance Replacement Warranty (vs. other manufacturer's limited 1 year warranty).

OWC has sold over half a million memory modules since 1988 and upgrades thousands of new Macs each month. OWC Memory is built to the highest standards and is fully backed by a Lifetime Advance Replacement Warranty and 30 Day Money Back Guarantee. OWC Memory options are a significant value when compared to factory installed options, saving customers up to 65% vs. factory options, while providing a lifetime warranty.

Balmuda X-Base Cooling System for Notebooks

X-BasePR: X-Base is designed for top-of-the-range notebook computers and their users. The design is simple: a large heat sink is installed in an 8 mm-thick aluminum plate and the whole rests on four feet. This structure intensifies natural cooling and allows powerful action without the need for an electric motor. The obvious design is expressed in the line and choice of materials. X-Base is composed of parts machined from blocks of aluminum and stainless steel (except for the heat sink) bolted together. The parts employ advanced technology and are worked and assembled with high mechanical precision. The whole stand in perfect balance on your desk.

In addition to a quiet and ultra powerful cooling system, X-Base offers complete stability, stemming from the excellent quality of the materials used, and a cooling effect of -7°C on average in absolute silence. A function to adjust the slope from 2 to 8 degrees. A function to change the direction of the computer by sliding with one hand. A cable organizer. X-Base offers new practical, original, powerful functions.

Test results show that X-Base cools the base of the computer by 4°C to 10°C. (* 1)

X-BaseThe secret of this performance, which offers average cooling of -7°C, can be ascribed to the structure of the cooling plate, which separates the notebook from the desk at an angle. Heat moves away from hot areas towards cold areas. X-Base works on this principle. It absorbs heat from the computer and releases it using a conversion current. The more heat the cooling plate receives, the stronger this current and the more effective the cooling process. The heat sink is installed in the same direction as this current, which enhances cooling. Because the plate is raised on feet, heat is not stored, and the cooling effect works until the computer's temperature falls to room temperature. During long renderings, or during a mix-down involving a lot of plug-ins, X-Base protects your computer with its effective cooling.

*1 This study comparing the temperature on the bottom of two notebook computers, one placed on an X-Base and the other on a wooden desk, under identical air-conditioning conditions. Cooling also depends on the temperature and processor and drive performance.

These results are non-binding and are not guaranteed for all notebook computers.

*X-Base is designed to release the heat from the computer into the air, as effectively as possible. The room temperature.

Size-change Option

X-BaseOne of the disadvantages that puts people off buying a cooling base is its fixed size. Until now, changing computer meant changing base, because the old base would not fit the new computer. With X-Base, you can change the plate to adjust your stand to your new notebook computer.

Balmuda designs objects to last and take you through life. So they have included a size-change option card with your X-Base. It allows customers to adjust their X-Base when they upgrade to a new model of computer. X-Base ins designed so you have complete freedom of choice when buying your next computer.

Size Change Option

X-Base consists of a cooling plate and four feet. This structure allows for components to be changed according to your needs. When you replace your notebook computer, you can adjust your X-Base to fit the new model. You no longer have to worry about stand size when new notebook models come out.

  • X-Base customers can change the stand size at their convenience, as long as Balmuda has manufactured the components.
  • This option is for X-Base customers only.
  • The choice of plate size is limited to our range.
  • Installation of the new plate is the customer's responsibility. If you would like Balmuda to install it, ask for an estimate.
  • This option is designed for long-term use; colors and finishes may change slightly over time.
  • The number of changes is unlimited; only a six-month period between each plate change is required.

Why choose a notebook computer? Because it is portable, compact and silent. When your notebook computer is on its X-Base, the only noise you will hear will be your hard disk, and only if you listen very carefully.

With cables to disconnect and reconnect at the back and side, moving a notebook computer can be a real headache!

X-BaseAnd who has never had the unpleasant experience of a disconnected cable falling behind the desk. With its built-in cable organizer, you don't need to move them anymore. The side cables tuck neatly away under the X-Base's plate. The organizer can also accommodate other cables, which will help organize your office better and give you peace of mind.

It is important for the slope to be adjustable to suit the user. The X-Base's feet enable you to change the slope easily, from 2° to 8°, to find the most comfortable angle for you. Proper adjustment provides excellent stability. The adjustment bolts will prevent your computer from moving, even if the X-Base is placed on a surface that is not perfectly flat.

We change position often in front of a computer: with our elbows on the table to create a Web page, a straight back and facing the screen to type long texts, etc. Did you ever want your computer to follow your every movement, to turn slightly to the right, to move closer?

The X-Base feet tips are designed to let you do just that: out of (sliding) polyurethane on top and in (non-sliding) polyacetate on the back. The X-Base's feet enable you to move your computer according to your mood, and the center of the plate is shaped to let you handle your notebook computer in one hand.

*The sliding may damage the surface underneath. This function should therefore not be used on natural or fragile materials.

At Balmuda, they think computers are more than just a working tool. They are a receptacle for a part of our lives, our knowledge and somewhere we keep our family snapshots and favorite songs. Computers are emotional objects that we use to turn dreams into reality. They are personal objects that we invest a little of ourselves in.

X-BaseX-Base components are carved from pure metal. Sculpture is the noblest and most expensive way to work metal and is the antithesis of mass production. It is normally used to make models (for testing) or objects that require precision tooling. We have chosen to make each X-Base this way, for the precision sculpted pure lines and the superior cooling properties offered by a base made of one piece. There are many products with steel or plastic plates on the market. We offer a highly aesthetic solution of unrivalled quality.

The shape of X-Base was established after many tests. For the most effective cooling possible, for a top-of-the-range notebook computer, we raised the plate and the heat sink. The slope is adjusted with bolts, which may seem primitive, but it is the result of many tests. Simpler solutions would allow faster adjustment, but this technique optimizes the structure's strength and stability. The cable organizer has five holes. The biggest one is for the DVI connector, the smallest ones, at either end, are for USB and FireWire connectors. With XBase's unique design, you can move your computer with a simple push of the hand and upgrade the size to go with a new notebook. The shape that seems so simple makes all kinds of things possible....

Right from the very first time you use your X-Base, you will notice how easily the computer fits onto its stand. The cutaway sides let you position your hands so you can carry your computer easily.

Materials

  • Plate, feet, cable organizer Anodized aluminum alloy machined)
  • Heat sink Anodized aluminum alloy (extruding shape material)
  • Joint shafts Stainless steel
  • Bolts Stainless steel
  • Feet tips Polyurethane, polyacetate

Online shop prices

  • X-Base 13 Silver for Apple MacBook 13" - Plate size ; 300 x 230mm - $320
  • X-Base 13 Black - $320
  • X-Base 15M for Apple MacBook 15" - Plate size ; 360 x 250mm - Silver - $340
  • X-Base 17M for Apple MacBook Pro 17" - Plate size ; 392 x 250mm - Silver - $350

Pininfarina Designed External Portable Hard Drives

SimpleDrive USB 2.0 High-Speed Hard DriveLast month I reviewed the SimpleDrive USB 2.0 High-Speed Hard Drive for Applelinks. The drive enclosure is designed by exotic car maker Ferrari's longtime design house, Pininfarina. To say that I liked the 500 GB SimpleDrive I tested would be an understatement. As I noted in the review:

"I can honestly say, with no hyperbole intended, that I have rarely been as smitten by a computer peripheral or accessory as I am with this SimpleDrive high-speed USB 2.0 hard drive unit.

"First there's the look. The SimpleDrive has lots of function and engineering goodness to talk about, and I'll get to that in a moment, but this thing is just drop-dead gorgeous.... Indeed, photos simply don't do this product justice. For one thing, it is a lot larger than it looks in pictures, measuring 5" x 8.25" x 1.5", and while that might be regarded as a drawback in some contexts...."

However, you can also get that same gorgeous styling in a smaller package, since SimpleTech also offers a line of Pininfarina-designed portable USB 2.0 hard drives based on notebook-type 2.5" 5400 RPM drive modules rather than the full-size 3.5" 7200 RPM units used in the High-Speed SimpleTech models. Not that 5400 RPM is any slouch.

SimpleDrive USB 2.0 High-Speed Hard DriveThere are five SimpleTech Portable USB 2.0 Hard Drive models available, all with these features:

  • Slim, compact & stylish (designed by Pininfarina)
  • Ruggedized for travel
  • Hi-Speed USB 2.0
  • Form Factor: 2.5 inches
  • Rotational Speed: 5400 RPM
  • Buffer Size: 8192 KB
  • Height: .63 inches
  • Width: 3 inches
  • Depth: 5 inches
  • Weight: .26 lb.
  • One-Click backup software (Windows only)
  • No external power required
  • Plug n' Play and hot-swappable
  • Free and unlimited technical support
  • 3-Year warranty

SimpleDrive USB 2.0 High-Speed Hard DriveAs SimpleTech notes, these little drives' sleek lines and ultra-low profile styling makes you want to put them on a shelf and stare, but they're small enough to easily slide into your pocket for ultimate portability.

The five models and MSRPs are:

  • SimpleTech 160 GB SimpleDrive Portable Hard Drive - 160 GB - $159.99
  • SimpleTech 120 GB SimpleDrive Portable Hard Drive 120 GB - $113.16
  • SimpleTech 80 GB SimpleDrive Portable Hard Drive 80 GB - $104.99
  • SimpleTech 60 GB SimpleDrive Portable Hard Drive 60 GB - $99.99

Street/mail-order prices may be lower.

MCE MobileStor Performance Hard Drive

MobileStor Performance Hard DrivePR: Your MacBook Pro and MacBook are high performance machines that deserve only the very highest performance hard drives available today. For that reason, the MCE MobileStor Performance Hard Drive Upgrade Solution was designed around only ultrahigh performance 2.5" SATA hard drives and not only delivers the drive, but also a high performance portable 2.5" SATA enclosure with both eSATA and USB 2.0 ports for your original drive.

Also included is SuperDuper! cloning/backup software, all the tools necessary to perform the upgrade, as well as an illustrated installation manual. Not a single piece of additional gear is required to perform the upgrade and transfer your data from the original drive to the new one. Plus you get a portable enclosure for your original SATA drive to use for backing up or for general storage to boot! (And yes, it does boot any Intel Mac.)

eSATA and USB 2.0Enclosure . . . Enclosed

The MCE MobileStor Performance Hard Drive Upgrade Solution includes a lightweight, portable 2.5" SATA enclosure which has both eSATA and USB 2.0 ports. The enclosure requires no screws to install your drive, is bus-powered and will boot your MacBook Pro or MacBook when connected via USB. A heat-dissipator built into the top of the enclosure ensures the drive inside runs cool as a combination blue and red LED indicate power and activity, respectively. The enclosure comes in especially handy when installing your new high-performance drive into your MacBook Pro or MacBook since you can now simply insert the original SATA drive you just removed from your MacBook Pro or MacBook into the enclosure, boot from it, then run the included SuperDuper! cloning/backup software to easily clone the original drive to the new one. Your new, high-performance internal hard drive will be identical to your original drive with the exception of all that newfound free storage space. The enclosure will then serve as the new home for your original drive and to which you can perform backups or just use as portable, all-purpose storage.

Power S.M.A.R.T.

The MCE MobileStor Performance Hard Drive responds to S.M.A.R.T. status commands from the Mac OS. S.M.A.R.T. status commands query a drive's internal reliability algorithms and can, therefore, warn of possible impending disk failure long before it happens giving you enough time to archive your data before it's lost.

The MCE MobileStor Performance Hard Drive Upgrade solution was designed to be easily installed by yourself and we include all tools needed as well as an illustrated installation manual or, if you prefer, you may have the MCE MobileStor Performance Hard Drive Upgrade professionally installed into your MacBook Pro or MacBook by MCE Technologies or one of their worldwide Authorized Upgrade Centers.

MobileStor Performance Hard Drives At a Glance

  • Up to 250 GB internal hard disk storage
  • Can be used as an individual volume or as part of a RAID array
  • Compatible with Boot Camp and Parallels
  • Bootable
  • Easy setup using Apple's Disk Utility program
  • NCQ (Native Command Queuing)
  • S.M.A.R.T. drive status compliant
  • Includes portable enclosure for removed original drive
  • 3 Year Warranty

Features:

  • Capacities of 100 GB, 120 GB, 160 GB, and 250 GB
  • High Performance Spindle Speeds of 5400 RPM and 7200 RPM
  • NCQ (Native Command Queuing) Support
  • S.M.A.R.T. Status Compliant
  • Sets up easily using Apple's Disk Utility program
  • Can be set up as a single volume, partitioned, or made part of RAID array
  • External, Portable 2.5" SATA Enclosure with eSATA and USB 2.0 ports for your original SATA Hard Drive

Includes:

  • MCE MobileStor Performance 2.5" SATA Hard Drive
  • Portable, Bus-Powered, External 2.5" SATA Enclosure with eSATA and USB 2.0 ports
  • SuperDuper! Cloning / Backup Software
  • Illustrated Installation Instructions
  • Installation Toolkit

 

MobileStor Performance™ Specs

Capacity:

100 GB

120 GB

160 GB

160 GB

250 GB

Rotational Speed:

7200 rpm

7200 rpm

5400 rpm

7200 rpm

5400 rpm

Access Time:

10ms

10ms

11ms

10ms

11ms

Buffer Size:

8 MB

8 MB

8 MB

16 MB

8 MB

Fluid Dynamic Bearing:

yes

yes

yes

yes

yes

Sust. Transfer (Max):

84.5 MB/s

87 MB/s

66.3 MB/s

61.88 MB/s

66.3 MB/s

Burst Transfer (Max):

150 MB/s

150 MB/s

150 MB/s

150 MB/s

150 MB/s

Power (Max):

5W

4.5W

5.5W

4.5W

5W

Weight:

5.1 oz

5.0 oz

5.6 oz

5.0 oz

5.1 oz

Warranty:

3 Year warranty

Compatible with all MacBook Pro and MacBook Systems

The MCE MobileStor Performance Hard Drive Upgrade solution is compatible with the 17" and 15" MacBook Pro and the 13.3" MacBook.

System Requirements: MacBook Pro (15" or 17") or MacBook (13.3").

30 Day Money Back Guarantee

Guaranteed to Perform

If your MCE MobileStor Performance Hard Drive does not live up to your EVERY expectation just let us know within the first 30 days. We will cheerfully refund your purchase price!

Prices from US$129 to US$279.

WiebeTech Reduces Prices on Many DriveDocks, Introduces new Notebook DriveDock with FireWire 800

Notebook DriveDockPR: WiebeTech announces price reductions on many Fourth Generation DriveDocks including the SATADock, FireWire DriveDock and FireWire 400 Notebook DriveDock. The SATADock is now reduced to $169.95, and the FireWire and Notebook DriveDock are only $99.95.

WiebeTech is also introducing a new FireWire 800 Notebook DriveDock (NBDD8v4) with FireWire 800 connectivity. Like our standard Notebook DriveDock v4, this new addition to the v4 Dock family allows quick access to any PATA/ATAPI 2.5" notebook drive. Multiple power options are available including Bus-Powered through FireWire 800, an optional +12V adapter or via a standard disk drive 4-pin molex power source. the Dock is priced at $169.95 retail and will ship early June.

"WiebeTech is excited to introduce yet another interface to our popular DriveDock series," said James Wiebe, President and CEO. "WiebeTech strives for quality, value and selection, and the new Notebook DriveDock meets all three standards."

Using the Notebook DriveDock is easy. Connect the drive to the Dock, plug in power and attach a FireWire or USB cable to a host computer. For more protection to the drive, a mounting plate is included on the dock to protect the drive's circuitry.

Features of the Notebook DriveDock 800

  • Dual daisy-chainable FireWire 800 ports: OXUF922
  • USB 2.0 Port: Allows attachment of USB hosts. Optional power adapter required.
  • Disk Drive Power In: Allows power using standard 4-pin molex connector found in most computers.
  • +12V Power Input LED: Identifies valid power input source on +12V input jack.
  • Disk Drive Power In LED: Identifies valid power input source on 4-pin drive power input socket.
  • +5V, +12V LEDs: Verifies that power output is operational. (+12V not necessary for Notebook DriveDock v4 when connected to a powered FireWire host.)
  • Bus-Powered Notebook DriveDock v4: Bus-powered through FireWire 800, needing no AC adapter to power the drive, allowing single cable operation.
  • On / Off Switch: Allows Power Up / Down.
  • FireWire Host Detection LED: Identifies valid FireWire host attachment.
  • USB Host Detection LED: Identifies USB attachment.
  • Aluminum case: Briefcase tough; excellent heat dissipation.
  • Small size: Fits in a pocket.
  • Data Speeds: FireWire 800: up to 800 Mbps; USB 2.0 port: up to 480 Mbps.

Operating System: Windows XP, Macintosh OS X, Linux distributions that support FireWire.

Single Port PCIe Gigabit Ethernet Copper ExpressCard

Single Port PCIe Gigabit Ethernet Copper ExpressCardPR: The Small Tree PEG34m brings full additional PCI Express Gigabit performance to your MacBook Pro at an affordable price!

The PEG34m is a 10/100/1000M Ethernet ExpressCard, which is specifically designed to plug into a MacBook Pro (or other Windows desktop or laptop) equipped with an ExpressCard 34mm slot. The PEG34m provides throughput and connectivity at gigabit speeds up to 1000 Mbps (1 Gbps) raw bandwidth, that is 100 times faster than the original Ethernet, yet is compatible with existing Ethernets. It works in conjunction with the built-in Gigabit Ethernet port and supports 802.3ad link aggregation and Jumbo frames up to 9000MTU.

Some practical reasons to buy the PEG34m ExpressCard are:

  1. you need to have a second fully functional Gigabit network for your laptop for file transfer/sharing mechanisms (e.g., iSCSI or ATA over Ethernet) that supports Jumbo frames
  2. you need to have a backup in case your built-in port goes dead
  3. there are situations where you need a separate laptop-to-laptop connection for demos and don't have switch ports available
  4. you need to have your physical Ethernet cable connection plugged into the left hand side of your MacBook Pro
  5. you want to use link aggregation on your MacBook Pro
  6. it is an inexpensive investment for the above benefits!

With the innovative design of the foldable connector, the PEG34m comes with an ultra slim RJ-45 port that is only half the height of regular RJ-45 connectors, making it the thinnest ExpressCard on the market to date. It's easy and convenient to carry in your pocket, or simply to store away when not in use.

The PEG34m enables you to connect your MacBook Pro via an available ExpressCard slot and your Ethernet and Gigabit

network in seconds, you are networked in no time. The PEG34m also features low power-consuming device which draws power from the ExpressCard slot directly, thus no external power supply is required.

Features

  • Compliant with ExpressCard standard
  • Easy to read LED indicators
  • Express interface with 2.5 GHz signaling
  • Automatic MDI/MDIX crossover at all speed
  • Active state power management (L0s) support
  • Compact and robust design perfect solution for all network users, both desktop and mobile
  • 10/100/1000M data rate auto-negotiation
  • Microsoft Plug-and-Play compatible
  • 10/100/1000M IEEE 802.3 compliant
  • Wake On LAN (WOL) power management support
  • Feature full duplex mode that doubles the network connection speed
  • Easy Installation
  • Foldable connector for convenient carrying and storage
  • Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI) for remote boot (PXE 2.1) with Windows
  • High-power Bus-power - no outside power is required

Specifications

  • Network Specification IEEE 802.3, 802.3u and 802.3x
  • IEEE 802.3ab and 802.3z
  • Cat3/Cat5 UTP/STP cable up to 328'/100M
  • Host Interface High-power ExpressCard Socket powered from MacBook Pro (or PC system), no external power needed
  • Suspend power saving mode supported
  • LED Indicators Link Active Status:
  • 1 Gbps: Blue
  • 100 Mbps: Green
  • 10 Mbps: Yellow
  • Dimensions 34mm(W) * 108mm(D) * 5 mm (H)
  • EMC Certification FCC Part 15B in US, CE EN55022/EN55024

Supported Operating Systems

  • Mac OS 10.4.7 or later
  • Windows 98/2000/ME/XP

System requirements:

  • MacBook Pro
  • Mac OS 10.4.7 or later.

Also comes with drivers for Windows 98/2000/ME/XP systems!

Price: $79.00

MacCase Introduces New Collection of Bags and Cases

PR: MacCase has unveiled its newest line of portable protection solutions with the launch of the Premium Leather Collection. Promoted as the Pinnacle in Apple Portable Protection, the collection is the first of its kind to deliver leather sleeves and shoulder bags specifically for Apple MacBook, MacBooks Pros and PowerBooks. The line also consists of matching cases for iPods and other accessories.

"I wanted a product to juxtapose the cool, clinical feel of the computers with something warm, sensual and handcrafted. As a material, leather was the answer," states Michael Santoro, Chief Creative Officer and President of MacCase. "The result is a state of the art collection that brings the MacCase design vocabulary to the next level."

Each piece is handcrafted to accentuate the quality of the leather and the precision in which the products are manufactured. The new collection features several new design elements including contrasting white stitching on each curved panel - a feature inspired by the interiors of the world's most prestigious cars including Ferrari, Lamborghini and Aston Marin.

The leather set consists of a shoulder bag, sleeve, a case for the 30g/60g iPod, and a pouch for laptop accessories. The sleeves are available in three sizes: 13", 15" and 17". Each product is available in black, chocolate brown, camel, red and pink and are sold individually or as matching sets.

MacCase created the Apple specific case market in 1999 with the introduction of a briefcase for the original clamshell iBook. The line has since grown to seven models including sleeves, binders, messenger bags, backpacks, slings and briefcases. In 2007, the Premium Leather Collection was introduced moving the brand up-market. Sold in over 26 countries, MacCase products can be seen online as well as through a number of resellers including CompUSA, MacMall, Small Dog Electronics, MacConnection, and Amazon.com. For further information, please visit our website at www.mac-case.com or contact Customer Service at 866-526-2247.

Software

CoolBook 2.2 Monitors Core Duo CPU

PR: CoolBook is a program for the MacBook and MacBook Pro computers. It lets you monitor the frequency, voltage and temperature of the notebook.

Registered users can also change the frequency and voltage of the processor.

New in version 2.2:

  • Added optional temperature limitation.
  • Added the option to display values in the menu bar.
  • Updated documentation.

System requirements:

  • Core Duo MacBook Pro and MacBook.
  • Some support for iMac and Mac mini.

System support: Intel

$10 Shareware

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, iBook, and MacBook profiles linked in our Portable Mac Index.

Amazon.com

According to a MacNN report, Amazon has lowered pricing on the older Core 2 MacBook models and is offering Apple's new MacBooks at discounted rates.

  • White 1.83 GHz Core 2 MacBook, 512/60/Combo, $920 after a $75 rebate.
  • White 2 GHz Core 2 MacBook, 1 GB/80/SD, $1,000 after a $100 rebate
  • Black 2 GHz Core 2 MacBook, 1 GB/120/SD, $1,250
  • White 2.16 GHz Core 2 MacBook, 1 GB/120/SD, $1,200 after a $100 rebate
  • Black 2.16 GHz Core 2 MacBook, 1 GB/160/SD, $1,400 after a $100 rebate

Amazon is also offering 1 GB ($50) and 2 GB ($100) memory upgrades for Apple's 2 GHz MacBook model.

Apple Store

New this week; Just one MacBook Pro in stock, but all three Core 2 Duo MacBook models and the 12" PowerBook.

  • refurb 12" PowerBook G4/1.5 GHz, 512/80/SD, APX, BT, $1,199
  • refurb 17" 2.16 GHz Intel Core Duo MacBook Pro, 1 GB/120/SD, $1,999
  • refurb 17" 2.33 GHz Intel Core 2 MacBook Pro, 2 GB/160/SD, $2,299

Wegener Media

  • 12" PowerBook G4/867, 256/40/Combo, $599.99

ExperCom

  • 12" iBook G4/1 GHz, 256/40/Combo, Screen Spots, $399
  • 15" PowerBook G4/550, 512/20/Combo, Scratch/Dent, $399
  • 15" PowerBook G4/800, 256/30/Combo, No Ethernet, $449

Power Max

  • Apple refurb 15" PowerBook G4/1.33 GHz, 256/60/Combo, APX, $999

We Love Macs

  • 12" iBook G3/500, 192/10/CD, $284.95
  • 12" iBook G3/700, 256/20/CD, $379.95
  • 12" PowerBook G4/867, 256/40/Combo, $899.95

Baucom Computers

  • 12" iBook G3/600, 256/20/CD, $249
  • 15" PowerBook G4/867 MHz, 512/60/SD, $685
  • Add AirPort for $75
  • 17" PowerBook G4/1.0 GHz, 512/60/SD, $925
  • Add Airport Extreme for $50

TechRestore

TechRestore is offering a $25 discount to '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 2007.12.31.

  • 12" iBook G3/500, 256/10/Combo, $299.99 less $25 = $274.99
  • 12" iBook G3/600, 256/20/Combo, $349.99 less $25 = $334.99
  • 14" iBook G4/1 GHz, 256/40/Combo, $629.99 less $25 = $604.99
  • 15" PowerBook G4/1.25 GHz, 512/80/SD, BT, $899.99 less $25 = $874.99
  • 15" PowerBook G4/1.5 GHz, 512/80/SD, BT, $999.99 less $25 = $974.99
  • 17" PowerBook G4/1.5 GHz 512/80/SD, APX, $1,199.99 less $25 = $1,174.99

The PowerBook Guy

  • 12" clamshell iBook G3/300, blueberry, 64/3/CD, $169.95
  • 12" clamshell iBook G3/366, Key lime, 128/10/CD, $329.95
  • 12" iBook G3/500, 128/10/CD, $199.95
  • 12" iBook G3/500, 128/40/CD-RW, $299.95
  • 12" iBook G4/1 GHz, 512/30/CD, APX, $479.95
  • 14" Lombard PowerBook G3/400, 128/20/DVD, $259.95
  • 14" Pismo PowerBook G3/400, 256/20/DVD, $379.95
  • 15" PowerBook G4/500, 256/20/DVD, $449.95

For deals on current and discontinued 'Books, see our 13" MacBook and MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, 13" MacBook Pro, 15" MacBook Pro, 17" MacBook Pro, 12" PowerBook G4, 15" PowerBook G4, 17" PowerBook G4, titanium PowerBook G4, iBook G4, PowerBook G3, and iBook G3 deals.

We also track iPad, iPhone, iPod touch, iPod classic, iPod nano, and iPod shuffle deals.

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