MacBook vs. MacBook Pro, 500 GB Drive for MacBooks, Toshiba Intros Lightest Laptop, and More

All prices are in US dollars unless otherwise noted.

General Apple and Mac desktops is covered in The Mac News Review. iPod, iPhone, and Apple TV news is covered in The iNews Review.

News & Opinion

• The Agony of a Buying a Brand New MacBook Pro
• Replacing a MacBook with a 15" MacBook Pro
• Adjusting to My New MacBook Pro
• 500 GB in a MacBook
• MacBook Pro 'Best Desktop Replacement'
• 15" MacBook Pro Vertical Striping Issue
• Greenish-Yellow MacBook Pro Display
• Intel Tech Chief Reveals Secret Origins of MacBook Air's Super Small CPU
• Doubling Laptop Battery Life
• Dell Recaptures #2 Spot in Worldwide Notebook Market, Apple Rises to 7th

Reviews

• Modbook: More and Less than a MacBook
• US Robotics 56K USB Modem

Tech Trends

• Toshiba Launches World's Lightest Laptop: 2.4 Lb. R500-S5007V with 128 GB SSD

Products

• Solar Powered Apple Juicz Simultaneously Charges and Powers MacBook Air
• TransIntl miniXpress Portable FireWire Hard Drive
• Magnesium Case for MacBook
• Kensington Announces Ultimate in Mouse Mobility and Flexibility
• Targus Back-To-School Laptop Accessories
• New Lineup of Targus Laptop Bags for Back-to-School
• miniXpress34 XpressCard eSATA Adapter

Bargain 'Books

News & Opinion

The Agony of a Buying a Brand New MacBook Pro

Cult of Mac's Pete Mortensen says:

"By the time this message posts, I might have already put in an order for a brand-new MacBook Pro. And, like any good Machead, the prospect of new hardware makes me miserable. After all, my old PowerBook G4 is incredibly obsolete, and I'm used to its idiosyncrasies. But I can't deal with the idea of something spendy, flashy and new that's behind the curve. I'd rather be way behind the times than just a few minutes off the mark.

"...I'm terrified of Apple taking the wraps off a new set of MacBooks and MacBook Pros the second that I invest, and I've lost the ability to accurately predict when the company will jump. Everyone knows the anxiety of the Apple early adopter - what on earth can be done for the agony of the late adopter? Anyone else dealing with the same pain?"

Editor's note: I'm on the horns of a similar dilemma, although deciding between a MacBook Pro and a MacBook is also part of the equation for me. Reports of excessive heat and issues with the MBP's LED backlit display (see below) aren't (or actually are, in a cautionary way) helping. I see in a Barrons report this week that Lehman analyst Tim Luke "continues to expect the introduction of an updated line of Mac notebooks ahead of the back-to-school season, including redesigned MacBook Pros and more MacBook Airs." cm

Link: The Agony of a Brand-New MacBook Pro Purchase

Replacing a MacBook with a 15" MacBook Pro

David Alison says:

"On Saturday I pulled the trigger on my MacBook Pro purchase, going with the base model 15" MacBook Pro directly from my local Apple store. Here are the specs:

• 2.4 GHz
• 2 GB RAM
• 200 GB 5,400 RPM hard drive
• Glossy display

"My youngest daughter is quite pleased because this frees up my little MacBook for her. I've been steadily working through getting things transferred and installed on the MacBook Pro and every hour or so my daughter pops in and asks if she can take the MacBook yet."

Editor's note: This is an especially interesting report, and it makes a side-by-side direct comparison of the MacBook and MacBook Pro by a user who likes both. cm

Link: Replacing a MacBook with a MacBook Pro

Adjusting to My New MacBook Pro

David Alison says:

"Having the MacBook Pro for a couple of days now has led to me liking the machine quite a bit more than my initial negative impression, caused primarily by the heat it generated....

"With Fan Control installed I've settled in on putting the minimum threshold for the fans at 3,100 RPM and have noticed a considerable difference. My CPU core temp at idle is down in the 40°-43°C range most of the day and I don't get any noticeable warmth under my left palm....

"...I do have a slight concern wearing out the fans on my MBP however. I know that normally machines like the MBP, with tightly engineered components, are designed with certain tolerances in mind and I don't know if running the fan 33% faster than it normally does would dramatically impact the life of the machine."

Link: Second Impressions - Adjusting to a MacBook Pro

500 GB in a MacBook

Hard Mac's Lionel reports:

"For a long time, the laptop was regarded as a second machine reserved people on the move, but one was obliged to have another principal machine.

"The processors were the first to acquire enough power to break this myth. It is now the turn of the hard drives whose capacity has soared these last years.

"Thus, Samsung now proposes the Spinpoint M6, a 2,5" SATA disk that reaches 500 GB . . . that fits well the MacBook Pro 15" and MacBook...."

Link: 500 GB in a MacBook Pro 15''

MacBook Pro 'Best Desktop Replacement'

The San Francisco Chronicle, CNET.com reports:

If you want to ditch your desktop without sacrificing gaming and multimedia performance, these machines could be the answer.

• Apple MacBook Pro 2008 - Cnet rating: 8.2 out of 10 (excellent)
• Acer Aspire 8920-6671 - Cnet rating: 8 out of 10 (excellent)
• Gateway P-6860FX - Cnet rating: 8 out of 10 (excellent)
• HP Pavilion dv9700t - Cnet rating: 7.9 out of 10 (very good)

Link: MacBook Pro Wins Best Desktop-replacement Laptops Bakeoff

15" MacBook Pro Vertical Striping Issue

MacRumors' Jeff Longo reports:

"Growing threads on both MacRumors and Apple's discussion forums are reporting intermittent vertical striping with current generation 15" MacBook Pros.

"According to affected users, the striping appears to occur when the display is changing brightness, often when waking from sleep or powering up or taking pictures with Photo Booth. To temporarily resolve the issue, users have shut and re-opened the lid or used the ctrl-shift-eject keyboard combination to reset the LCD."

Link: 15" MacBook Pro Vertical Striping Issue

Greenish-Yellow MacBook Pro Display

MacInTouch correspondent Paul Huang says:

"I picked up a MBP 15.4" (2.5 GHz/512 VRAM) on 6/14/08. I knew the LED screen has been horrible due to its inherent limitations, but it's turned out to be much worse, especially when I put it next to my old PowerBook screen . . . with the new MacBook Pro screen, there is a greenish-yellow tint. This characteristics make it unusable for me. I have seen enough of these 15.4" to come to the conclusion that they are all the same low-quality display."

Link: MacBook Pro Display/Video Issues

Intel Tech Chief Reveals Secret Origins of MacBook Air's Super Small CPU

Gizmodo reports:

"Here's something you didn't know about the MacBook Air's infamously tiny CPU: The shrinkage tech behind it had been collecting dust on Intel's shelf for a couple years since no PC manufacturer was interested in it. When Apple put in the call for a dwarven chip, Intel originally thought what Apple wanted was years away on their roadmap before re-discovering the concept - a year later they had it refreshed and ready to go. Which is the usual breakneck speed Apple moves, Intel's CTO Justin Rattner told Fortune. He also dished that they're collaborating on more breakthrough stuff that's 'equally aggressive.'"

Link: Intel Tech Chief Reveals Secret Origins of the MacBook Air's Super Small Chip, Disses WiMax

Doubling Laptop Battery Life

Technology Review's Kate Greene reports:

"Intel's new integrated power management could dramatically reduce power consumption in your laptop by shutting down operations not being used.

"Intel Research engineers yesterday showed off prototype methods for system-wide laptop power savings. Using the current implementation, average power consumption of a laptop can be reduced from 6.23 to 4.02 watts. The researchers believe that the approach has the capacity to slash up to 50 percent of laptop power consumption."

Link: Doubling Laptop Battery Life

Dell Recaptures #2 Spot in Worldwide Notebook Market, Apple Rises to 7th

DigiTimes' Joseph Tsai reports:

"DisplaySearch has revealed its quarterly notebook PC shipment and forecast report which stated that 31 million units were shipped in the first quarter of 2008, noting that the notebook PC market shrank 6% on quarter, but increased 35% on year during the period. HP remained in the lead for seven consecutive quarters with a shipment around two million units over number two Dell in the first quarter of 2008....

"There were also some significant shifts among the smaller brands, including Apple, which surged to number seven from eight in the first quarter after four consecutive quarters...."

Link: Dell Recaptures Number Two Spot in 1Q08 Notebook Market (subscription required)

Reviews

Modbook: More and Less than a MacBook

MacLife's Zack Stern reports:

"It's one of a kind, but we wish it weren't - Mac tablet's innovative interface may not be enough to keep it afloat.

"The Modbook can do a lot of things a regular MacBook can't. We still don't recommend that you take it for a float in the pool!"

"Literally a retrofitted MacBook, this Apple-sanctioned tablet Mac shares the same features and performance. But the Modbook does more - and less - than Apple's portable."

Link: Axiotron Modbook

US Robotics 56K USB Modem

Macworld UK's Cliff Joseph reports:

"You may be thankful for this little modem when stuck in a B&B with no broadband

"Quite a few people were surprised when Apple revealed that the new MacBook Air had built-in wireless networking but no Ethernet connector. After all, a wireless-only laptop is fine if you're multi-millionaire Steve Jobs and you can afford to sit in first-class airport lounges or posh hotels with all the latest technology at your beck and call.

"But, for the rest of us, there are often occasions when we find ourselves in places that don't have wireless networks. In fact, there are times when even Ethernet and broadband internet access can be hard to find. There are, for instance, many hotels here in the UK and dotted around Europe that don't have any internet access at all - unless, that is, you resort to that relic of 20th century technology, the 'dial-up' modem."

Link: US Robotics 56K USB Modem Review

Tech Trends

Toshiba Launches World's Lightest Laptop: 2.4 Lb. R500-S5007V with 128 GB SSD

Going Apple's MacBook Air better on several counts, Toshiba's Digital Products Division has announced the addition of a 128 GB solid state drive (SSD) option in their Portégé laptop series. Toshiba's 2.4 pound Portégé R500-S5007V is the world's lightest laptop with a 128 GB SSD and DVD SuperMulti drive and one of the world's thinnest with a SSD and DVD SuperMulti drive.

Toshiba is claiming seven "world's first" technologies in the Portégé R500 series, including a transreflective LED backlit indoor/outdoor viewing display and the industry's highest rated EPEAT Gold laptop and Energy Star 4.0 compliance, according to Jeff Barney, general manager and vice president, Digital Products Division, Toshiba America Information Systems, Inc.

Unlike the MacBook Air, the Portégé R500 comes with a built-in 7mm DVD SuperMulti optical drive, eliminating the bulk, inconvenience, and hassle of carrying additional drives and cables - and having to tie up a USB port.

For enhanced outdoor viewing, the Portégé R500s' widescreen 12.1" transreflective LED backlit display can be used in direct sunlight. Outdoors, the transreflective screen lets the sun's light pass through and reflects it out to bring the images on the display to life so users can switch off the LED backlighting while outdoors and decrease overall battery consumption. This feature also makes the Toshiba Portégé R500 series an ideal choice for environmentally conscious users. This display technology also enables users to expand their mobile computing boundaries beyond the traditional four walls of their office, home, or local coffee shop to include locations with direct sunlight.

Measuring as thin as 0.77", the Portégé R500 series uses Toshiba's proprietary High Density Mounting Technology process to enable dual-sided motherboard component mounting. This technology produces a motherboard that is one-third the size of a mainstream 15.4" notebook's motherboard while still providing users the same functionality.

With a claimed more than eight hours of battery life, the Portégé R500-S5007V provides users a full work day of normal computing on a single charge. To achieve this extended computing life. Key Portégé R500-S5007V components use low power consumption technology including both the 128 GB SSD and an ultra low voltage processor.

The Portégé R500-S5007V "Recommended Configuration" carries a MSRP of $2,999, or a bit more than the MacBook Air with its optional 64 GB SSD.

• Genuine Windows Vista Business (32-bit version)
• Downgrade media for Genuine Windows XP Professional
• Intel Core 2 Duo Processor U7700
• 1.33 GHz, 2 MB L2, 533 MHz FSB with 64 bit
• 2 GB PC2-5300 DDR2 SDRAM
• 128 GB Serial ATA solid state drive
• 12.1-inch diagonal widescreen high brightness display
• 1280 x 800 (WXGA) - Transreflective backlit LED
• Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 950
• 7mm, 8x DVD-SuperMulti (+/-R Single Layer) drive supporting 9 formats
• Intel Wireless WiFi Link 4965AGN
• Intel PRO/1000 - 10/100/1000 Ethernet
• Bluetooth® 2.0 + EDR
• 3-Year Standard Limited Warranty

Complete product specifications for all models within the Portégé R500 Series are available online.

Link: Toshiba Portégé R500 Series

Products

Solar Powered Apple Juicz Simultaneously Charges and Powers MacBook Air

PR: QuickerTek announces the Apple Juicz - a new way to power the Apple MacBook Air using solar power. Three models are priced from $500 to $1,000 and fold to a convenient 10.5" size and come with a Element carry bag. These solar panels charge the MacBook Air while in use.

Apple Juicz MacBook Air Solar Charger is a major breakthrough in that it both powers and charges the MacBook Air simultaneously. The MacBook Air has a nonremoveable battery, so alternative power options are welcomed by users, especially 'green' renewable options.

There are three different solar panels:

1. 19 watt model - recharges the Air in 14 hours, unfolds to 30.5 x 30 inches;
2. 29 watt model - recharges the Air in 8 hours, unfolds to 41.5 x 30.5 inches;
3. 58 watt model - recharges the Air in 5 hours, unfolds to 60 x 42 inches

All models require an upgraded MagSafe power adapter. QuickerTek can either modify the customer's adapter for $25, or we can sell a previously modified MagSafe power adapter for $100. Either way, military-spec parts are used to fortify the design physically, as well as upgrade it for solar power use. Compatibility with a stock MacBook Air is maintained.

Pricing:

• 19 watt model, folds to 10.5 x 6.5 x 0.6 inches, $500
• 29 watt model, folds to 10.5 x 9.3 x 0.75, $600
• 58 watt model folds to 10.5 x 9.3 x 2.8, $1,000

Like most QuickerTek products, the Apple Juicz MacBook Air Solar Charger is backed with a one-year warranty on parts and labor.

QuickerTek has been a recognized leading innovator of antennas and RF products for Apple Power Macintosh, Mac Pro, iMac PPC and Intel, PowerBook, MacBook and MacBook Pro computers.

QuickerTek products can be purchased online and from authorized dealers.

Link: Apple Juicz MacBook Air Solar Charger

TransIntl miniXpress Portable FireWire Hard Drive

PR: miniXpress portable rugged yet stylish cases are made with Aluminum assuring durability, excellent heat dissipation and impact protection, keeping your high RPM SATA hard drive running cool and safe. The drive spin down function ensures efficient operation by automatically reducing power consumption. When the laptop or desktop system enter sleep mode, the miniXpress spins down to minimize power consumption. The hard disk spins up automatically when the host system wakes up.

miniXpress customized to give 2.5" SATA HDD users blazing SATA transfer speed and multiple interface connectivity options, the combo miniXpress offers a full spectrum of connectivity options with eSATA, USB 2.0, FireWire 800 and FireWire 400 ports with repeater functionality. The groundbreaking DuoLink eSATA/USB 2-in-1 IO connector (miniXpress825 S &425 S) combines an eSATA and a USB 2.0 port into a single connector. The discreet, "error-proof" connector eliminates potential damage to the enclosure, by limiting the direction in which the eSATA or USB cable can be inserted.

Utilizing the latest Oxford 934DS Hot pluggable and Bus powered technology feature allows the FireWire drives to be Plugged or Unplugged with out turning-off or restarting the computer. The drive mounts automatically when plugged in to the FireWire Port of the computer.

Link: miniXpress Portable FireWire Hard Drive

Magnesium Case for MacBook

PR: The Exceptional Magnesium Protection Case for MacBook has a form fitting design that allows the user to use the MacBook without removing it from the case while having full access to all of the MacBook's functions.

The case's original low profile base with integrated heat conduction plate helps to cool the MacBook when in use. Fully lined with neoprene, the aluminum case protects the MacBook when on the go.

Priced from $99 up.

Link: Exceptional Magnesium Protection Case for MacBook

Kensington Announces Ultimate in Mouse Mobility and Flexibility

PR: Kensington Computer Products Group has announced two innovative new wireless mice that help simplify school and business travel whether across the campus or across the globe. The versatile SlimBlade Bluetooth Presenter Mouse combines the power of two devices into one, while following the notebook's sleep and wake modes so a user never has to turn it on or off again. The ultraportable Ci95m Wireless Mouse with Nano Receiver offers instant connectivity, so it's always ready to spring into action.

The SlimBlade Bluetooth Presenter Mouse gives students and mobile professionals a compelling reason to jump on the growing Bluetooth bandwagon. People know the Bluetooth technology primarily from their cellular phone experience. But now that more notebooks are equipped with Bluetooth capabilities, Kensington and its smart made simple design philosophy is helping users benefit from that. The sleek SlimBlade Bluetooth Presenter Mouse gives users all the advantage of a full-function laser mouse for the ultimate in precision, responsiveness and tracking ability while saving a precious USB port for other devices. It also saves school and travel bag space by doubling as a meeting or classroom presenter. A simple double-click easily toggles between the two functions.

The ultraportable Ci95m Wireless Mouse with Nano Receiver offers "always on" instant connectivity that users can depend on for maximum working flexibility as they move around campus or around town. The 'plug and stay' nano receiver is so small that it can stay plugged in, so users never need to dig through their bags again, searching for their receiver. Its ultra-thin design, rubberized non-slip grip and 2.4 GHz frequency make it a rugged and reliable traveling companion.

"Many people prefer using a mouse than a notebook touchpad," said Bill Rathbone, Senior Global Product Manager, Kensington, "and our new mice make it easier than ever for them to enjoy the extra comfort whenever they are on the move. Our smart made simple designs provide control, comfort, and peace of mind. They're optimized for the rigors of travel and are always ready to use. The great-looking Ci95 mouse offers the "plug and stay" convenience of a nano receiver at an affordable price. And we're especially proud to offer a Bluetooth mouse and presenter in one. Bluetooth is increasingly popular in notebook computers but few input devices take advantage of it. We have entered this market with a highly flexible, dual purpose device and plan to add even more consumer choices as we go along."

Key features of the Kensington SlimBlade Bluetooth Presenter Mouse

• Bluetooth connection frees up your USB port for other use - no receiver required
• Switches easily from mouse to presenter at the touch of a button, so you can give your presentations in style
• The ultimate in precision, responsiveness and tracking ability with the full-featured laser mouse
• Ultra-thin design fits great in your hand and slips easily into a pocket or travel bag
• Automatic sleep mode when your notebook sleeps - no need to ever turn it on or off
• Key features of the Kensington Ci95m Wireless Mouse with Nano Receiver
• Plug-and-stay nano receiver is so small you plug it in once and leave it in
• Rugged, ultra-thin design withstands whatever the road dishes out, yet travels easily and fits great into your hand
• 2.4 GHz wireless for reliable performance in any environment
• Rubberized exterior for a non-slip grip

The Kensington SlimBlade Bluetooth Presenter Mouse (SKU K72330US) at a suggested retail price of $59.99 and the Kensington Ci95m Wireless Mouse with Nano Receiver (SKU K72328US) at a suggested retail price of $39.99 are available at Amazon.com, Kensington.com, and major retailers.

• Link: SlimBlade Bluetooth Presenter Mouse
• Link: Ci95m Wireless Mouse with Nano Receiver

Targus Back-To-School Laptop Accessories

PR: Targus Inc., maker of the world's top-selling laptop computer cases and accessories, has announced its back-to-school lineup of portable laptop accessories including a High-Speed File Transfer Cable that's both Mac and PC compatible and a new low-cost Optical Bluetooth Laptop Mouse. Targus is also offering students its new USB 2.0 4-Port Bend-A-Hub with a Mini USB Adapter; the Travel Power Outlets with Surge Protection; and HeatDefense laptop cooling system. Targus' convenient and affordable products simplify a busy student's life while on the go.

"Computers are increasingly becoming an integral part of education and the workplace with vast amounts of data and information being shared and transferred at home, work and school," said Al Giazzon, vice president of marketing at Targus. "Targus' convenient portable products simplify the demanding student lifestyle, allowing them to go from the library to the classroom, with all the accessories they need to make laptop use simple and more efficient."

Targus High-Speed File Transfer Cable for PC/Macs (Model # ACC96US)

Targus' High-Speed File Transfer Cable is the ideal solution for transferring large quantities of data including videos, music, images, or files whether you are using a PC, a Mac or both. With transfer rates of up to 480 Mbps and its embedded Easy Suite software, Targus' new Transfer Cable allows for a simple, high- speed file transfer without the need to install software or drivers. Save time by plugging in and transferring your favorite music video from a friend's Mac to your PC or a PowerPoint presentation from a classmate's PC to yours. The cable is also ideal when transferring all of your programs and files to a new computer. The File Transfer Cable is 4.92' in length, weighs 1.76 oz, and has an estimated street price of $39.99.

Targus Optical Bluetooth Laptop Mouse (Model# AMB04US)

Establishing a low price point for Bluetooth enabled mice for Targus, the new Targus Optical Bluetooth Laptop Mouse features premium Bluetooth wireless technology which allows for seamless functionality up to 33-feet away. The affordable mouse offers adjustable cursor speeds between 1600 and 800 DPI with a push of a button and is compatible with both Macs and PCs. To conserve battery life, the mouse automatically shifts into sleep mode when it's not being used and features a convenient on/off switch to extend usage. The Optical Bluetooth Laptop Mouse measures 4.1" x 2.1" x 1.4", weighs 2.4 oz, and has an estimated street price of $39.99.

Targus USB 2.0 4- Port Bend-A-Hub with Mini USB Adapter (Model # ACH103US)

With four USB ports, Targus' new USB 2.0 4-Port Bend-a-Hub with Mini USB Adapter offers more versatility and flexibility when connecting mice, keyboards, storage drives, or other devices to your Mac or PC. The new hub features two specialty connectors; one of those connectors can easily adjust to a 90-degree angle for simple accessibility. Additionally, the 4-Port Bend-a-Hub features a mini-USB adapter, which is ideal for charging portable accessories such as digital cameras, cell phones or PDA devices. No external power supply is needed, and users can conveniently roll it up for easy storage, which makes it the perfect gadget for busy students on-the-go. The USB 2.0 4-Port Bend-a-Hub with Mini USB Adapter is 9" in length, weighs 1.8 oz, and has an estimated street price of $19.99.

Travel Power Outlets with Surge Protection (Model # APS03US)

Whether you are at the library or in the classroom, there never seems to be enough outlets for all your needs. The portable Travel Power Outlets with Surge Protection instantly provides outlet expansion with four outlets while providing up to 300 joules of protection for your devices. The compact design makes it an easy fit for hard to reach places, yet is designed to accommodate oversized power adapters. You can now charge your cell phone, iPod and laptop all from one location. The Travel Power Outlets measures 5.5" x 1.25" x 1", weighs 5.6 oz, and has an estimated street price of $19.99.

Targus HeatDefense (Model # AWE45US)

The Targus HeatDefense cooling system keeps your laptop running cool to help preserve battery life and prevent overheating. A crystalline compound material within the HeatDefense panel melts when heat is released from your laptop, creating a thermal capacitor, which absorbs the heat. Compatible with laptops up to 17", the lightweight HeatDefense provides a comfortable user experience and easily folds for travel from one classroom to the next. The HeatDefense measures approximately 13.35" x 11.85" and is available at an estimated street price of $29.99.

All products are backed by a limited one year warranty. These and other Targus' accessories are available at Targus.com as well as through leading retailers, e-tailers and computer manufacturers' websites.

Link: Targus

New Lineup of Targus Laptop Bags for Back-to-School

PR: Targus Inc., maker of the world's top-selling laptop computer cases and accessories, has announced its fall lineup of Back-to-School laptop bags including the environmentally conscious Grove bags, stylish Velos Messenger bags and lightweight Incognito line. Each bag features a padded compartment that fits up to 15.4" widescreen laptops and includes pockets for other essentials students can't leave home without.

"Backpacks and laptop cases are more than just a convenient way to carry around your laptop and school accessories, they make a statement," stated Kevin Gallagher, vice president of design at Targus. "Whether you are looking to promote an eco-friendly lifestyle or just want to be fashionable, Targus has a bag to fit anyone's personal style."

Grove Laptop Cases

The Grove cases are composed of PVC-free material, recyclable plastics and nickel-free metal, making them less harmful to the ecosystem.

Available in four attractive styles: Convertible Backpack/Messenger (TSB110US), Sling (TSB109US), Topload (TST022US), and Messenger (TSM068US) - you are sure to find one that fits your needs. All four bags offer detailed workstations including storage compartments, a business card holder, key clip and pen loops.

The Convertible Backpack/Messenger features backpack straps, which tuck away, so the case can be used as a messenger with a single padded, adjustable shoulder strap. An MP3 pocket with headphone pass-through is available in the Sling, Topload and Messenger bags, allowing students to listen to their favorite music while on campus. The Grove Messenger and Topload include a hidden water bottle holder and back slip pocket with trolley pass-through while the Sling offers a side mesh bottle holder.

The Grove Convertible measures 12.6" x 5.51" x 16.14", weighs 2.86 pounds, and has an estimated street price of $79.99. The Grove Sling measures 13.58" x 6.1" x 16.54", weighs 2.29 pounds, and has an estimated street price of $59.99. The Grove Topload measures 14.96" x 5.51" x 12.6", weighs 2.29 pounds, and has an estimated street price of $59.99. The Grove Messenger measures 14.37" x 4.53" x 13.39", weighs 2.64 pounds, and has an estimated street price of $49.99.

Velos Messenger

The Velos Messenger is available in three stylish color combinations with interchangeable color straps, offering students one case with two exciting looks.

The color combinations include: chocolate case with chocolate and aqua straps (TSM063US); charcoal case with black and lime green straps (TSM06301US); and a wheat case with mushroom and orange straps (TSM06302US). To keep your laptop protected, the Velos messenger features a dual cushioned laptop compartment to help prevent drop damage during travel. For a number of storage options, the messenger includes three easily accessible front pockets and one rear slip pocket for notebooks or papers as well as a zippered accessories pocket. For added convenience, the shoulder strap is adjustable and the handle retracts into the case.

The Velos Messenger measures 14.57" x 3.54" x 12.01", weighs 3.17 pounds and has an estimated street price of $69.99.

Incognito Backpacks

Targus' new Incognito cases are an affordable, lightweight solution to carrying around every school related item you need. With a large, padded main pocket for your laptop, the Incognito Backpack has plenty of additional room for books, binders and notebooks. Additionally, the backpack is designed with a custom MP3 player pocket with line-out for headphones and an easily accessible front pocket workstation featuring card holders, a cell phone pocket and pen loops. Its padded shoulder straps, back panel and carrying handle offer additional comfort when running around campus. The Incognito is available in three trendy colors - pink (TSB11802US), olive (TSB11801US) and black (TSB118US) for an affordable, yet stylish alternative to the traditional backpack. The Incognito Backpack measures 12.99" x 5.39" x 16.45", weighs 1.97 pounds and has an estimated street price of $39.99.

Incognito Messenger

The same affordable, lightweight alternative is also available in a stylish messenger design with two color schemes - grey with pink accents and black with olive accents.

Carry your essentials at your side, protecting your laptop with a secure, padded compartment and water-resistant bottom panel, which offers you the peace of mind that your belongings are continuously secure. Stow away all your accessories in the conveniently placed front pocket workstation equipped with an ID holder, pen loops, and pockets for additional accessories and electronics. The Incognito also includes an adjustable, padded shoulder strap and carrying handle to ensure a comfortable experience.

Available in two attractive color schemes - black with olive green details (TSM070US) and light gray with pink details (TSM07001US) - the Incognito Messenger measures 14.57" x 5.51" x 12.8", weighs 1.58 pounds and has an estimated street price of $39.99.

Incognito Vertical Slipcase

The Incognito line also includes slim slipcases that are not only a great value but provide an extra back slip pocket for your personal belongings. Its vertical design and adjustable, padded shoulder strap and carrying handle make the Incognito Slipcase the ideal solution for students on-the-go.

The Incognito Vertical Slipcase is available in four stunning colors: black (TSS051US), light gray (TSS05101US), olive green (TSS05103US) and charcoal (TSS05102US). All Incognito Slipcases cases measure 14.76" x 2.36" x 12.6", weigh 1.5 pounds and have an estimated street price of $29.99.

Targus is offering many other back-to-school laptop cases that fit 15.4" or 17" laptops.

All products are backed by a limited lifetime warranty. Targus' back-to-school backpacks and laptop bags are available at Targus.com as well as through leading retailers, e-tailers and computer manufacturers' websites.

Link: Targus

miniXpress34 XpressCard eSATA Adapter

• Ports: Two(2) eSATA
• Transfer Rate: 3 Gb/s
• Support: 1-Lane 2.5 Gb/sec
• Compliant: SATA 1 & SATA II
• In the Box:
  • Express 34 SATA card
  • Drivers for Mac OS X,Windows NT/2k/XP/ Server 2000

Link: miniXpress34 XpressCard eSATA Adapter

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.

Not much change this week. A glut of 17" MacBook Pros (try dropping the price below $2,000, Apple), the low-end 15" MacBook Pros are sold out, and the 2.4 GHz White Penryn MacBook (perhaps the best deal of the whole bunch) is back. Each model comes with an Apple one-year warranty, and ground shipping is free.

• refurb 1.6 GHz MacBook Air, 2 GB/80, $1,549
• refurb 1.8 GHz MacBook Air, 2 GB/64 SSD, $2,699
• refurb 2.1 GHz Penryn MacBook, white, 1 GB/120/Combo, $949
• refurb 2.2 GHz Santa Rosa MacBook, white, 1 GB/120/SD, $999
• refurb 2.4 GHz Penryn MacBook, white, 2 GB/160/SD, $1,099
• refurb 2.4 GHz Penryn MacBook, black, 2 GB/250/SD, $1,299
• refurb 15" 2.4 GHz Penryn MacBook Pro, 2 GB/200/SD, $1,699
• refurb 15" 2.5 GHz Penryn MacBook Pro, 2 GB/250/SD, $2,149
• refurb 15" 2.6 GHz Santa Rosa MacBook Pro, 2 GB/200/SD, $2,399
• refurb 17" 2.4 GHz Santa Rosa MacBook Pro, 2 GB/160/SD, $2,099
• refurb 17" 2.4 GHz hi-res Santa Rosa MacBook Pro, 2 GB/160/SD, $2,299
• refurb 17" 2.5 GHz Penryn MacBook Pro, 2 GB/250/SD, $2,399
• refurb 17" hi-res 2.5 GHz Penryn MacBook Pro, 2 GB/250/SD, $2,499
• refurb 17" 2.6 GHz Penryn MacBook Pro, 2 GB/200/SD, $2,649
• refurb 17" hi-res 2.6 GHz Penryn MacBook Pro, 2 GB/200/SD, $2,749

117 Hour Apple Sale Till Noon Monday June 23 (all prices after discounts and mail-in rebates)

• 2.1 GHz Core 2 Duo MacBook, white, 1 GB/120/Combo, $1,004.98
• 2.2 GHz Core 2 Duo MacBook, white, 1 GB/120/SD, $1,144
• 2.4 GHz Core 2 Duo MacBook, white, 2 GB/160/SD, $1,204.98
• 2.4 GHz Core 2 Duo MacBook, black, 2 GB/250/SD, $1,379.98
• 1.6 GHz MacBook Air, 2 GB/80, $1,739.94
• 1.8 GHz MacBook Air, 2 GB/80, $1,999.99
• 1.8 GHz MacBook Air, 2 GB/64 SSD, $3,029.99
• 15.4" 2.2 GHz Core 2 MacBook Pro, 2 GB/120/SD, $1,524.98
• 15.4" 2.2 GHz Core 2 MacBook Pro, glossy screen, 2 GB/120/SD $1,598.99
• 15.4" 2.4 GHz Core 2 MacBook Pro, glossy screen,2 GB/160/SD $1,748.99
• 15.4" 2.4 GHz Core 2 MacBook Pro, 2 GB/200/SD, $1,789.98
• 15.4" 2.4 GHz Core 2 MacBook Pro, glossy screen, 2 GB/200/SD, $1,814.99

• 12" iBook G3/700, 256/20/Combo, $419.99
• 15" PowerBook G4/667 (VGA), 256/30/Combo, $629.99
• 1.6 GHz MacBook Air, 2 GB/80, $1,699.99

- Clamshell iBook - Pismo - 12" PowerBook - 15" Titanium PowerBook - 15" Aluminum PowerBook

• Clamshell iBook G3/300 MHz, blueberry or tangerine, 96/6/CD, $199.99
• 12" PowerBook G4/867 MHz, 256/40/Combo, $469.99
• 12" PowerBook G4/1 GHz, 256/40/Combo, $509.99
• Pismo PowerBook G3/400, 128/6/DVD, $299.99
• Pismo PowerBook G3/400, 256/40/DVD, $399.99
• Pismo PowerBook G3/400, 256/60/DVD, $419.99
• Pismo PowerBook G3/500, 128/6/DVD, $349.99
• Pismo PowerBook G3/500, 256/40/DVD, $439.99
• Pismo PowerBook G3/500, 256/60/DVD, $449.99
• 15" titanium PowerBook G4/867 MHz, 256/30/Combo, $549.99
• 15" titanium PowerBook G4/1 GHz, 256/60/Combo, $699.99
• 15" aluminum PowerBook G4/1 GHz, 256/60/Combo, $599.99
• 15" aluminum PowerBook G4/1.25 GHz, 256/60/Combo, $629.99
• 15" aluminum PowerBook G4/1.33 GHz, 256/60/Combo, $679.99
• 15" aluminum PowerBook G4/1.5 GHz, 512/80/Combo, $699.99
• 15" aluminum PowerBook G4/1.67 GHz, 1 GB/80/SD, $739.99
• 15" hi-res PowerBook G4/1.67 GHz, 512/80/SD, $799.99

• 12" iBook G4/800 MHz, 640/30/Combo, $329
• 12" iBook G4/800 MHz, 640/30/Combo, $370
• 12" iBook G4/1.07 GHz, 640/30/Combo, $395
• 14" iBook G4/1.2 GHz, 512/60/Combo, $445
• 14" iBook G4/1.33 GHz, 640/60/SD, APX, $559
• 14" iBook G4/1.42 GHz, 640/60/SD, APX, $639
• 15" PowerBook G4/1.5 GHz, 1 GB/80/Combo, APX, $689
• 15" PowerBook G4/1.67 GHz, 1 GB/80/Combo, APX, $799
• 15" 2.1 GHz Core Duo MacBook Pro, 512/80/SD, APX, $1,129

• open box 1.6 GHz MacBook Air, 2 GB/80, warranty started, $1,699
• open box 1.6 GHz MacBook Air, 2 GB/80, $1,749
• open box 2.1 GHz Core 2 MacBook, white, 1 GB/120/SD, $1,049
• open box 2.16 GHz Core 2 MacBook, white, 2 GB/120/SD, warranty started, $1,049
• open box 2.2 GHz Core 2 MacBook, black, 2 GB/160/SD, $1,249
• open box 2.4 GHz Core 2 MacBook, white, 2 GB/160/SD, $1,249
• open box 2.4 GHz Core 2 MacBook, black, 2 GB/250/SD, $1,449
• 15" 2.4 GHz Core 2 MacBook Pro, warranty started, 2/160/SD, $1,799
• 15" 2.4 GHz Core 2 MacBook Pro, warranty started, 2/200/SD, $1,949
• refurb 17" 2.4 GHz Core 2 MacBook Pro, 2 GB/160/SD, $1,988
• open box 17" 2.4 GHz Core 2 MacBook Pro, 2 GB/160/SD, $2,188
• open box 17" 2.4 GHz Core 2 MacBook Pro, 2 GB/160/SD, warranty started, $2,349
• open box 17" 2.4 GHz Core 2 MacBook Pro, 2 GB/160/SD, $2,449
• open box 17" 2.5 GHz Core 2 MacBook Pro, 2 GB/160/SD, $2,688
• 17" 2.6 GHz Core 2 MacBook Pro, 2 GB/160/SD, $2,688

• Blueberry clamshell iBook G3/300 MHz, 64/3/CD, $149.95
• Tangerine clamshell iBook G3/300 MHz, 64/3/CD, $159.95
• 12" iBook G3/500, 192/40/CD, $239.95
• 12" iBook G3/500, 192/10/DVD, $249.95
• 12" iBook G3/600, 128/20/CD, $229.95
• 13" 2 GHz Core Duo MacBook, 1 GB/120/SD, $949.95
• Pismo PowerBook G3/400, 192/6/Zip, $269.95
• 15" 2.16 GHz Core 2 MacBook Pro, 1 GB/120/SD, $1,499.95

For more deals on current or recently discontinued models, see our MacBook deals, MacBook Air deals, 15" MacBook Pro deals, 17" MacBook Pro deals, 12" PowerBook G4 deals, 15" PowerBook G4 deals, 17" PowerBook G4 deals, titanium PowerBook G4 deals, iBook G4 deals, PowerBook G3 deals, and iBook G3 deals.