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
Products
News & Opinion
The iPhone Is Not a Netbook
OS News's Thom
Holwerda notes that last week, Apple once again repeated its claim that
the iPhone and iPod touch are capable of filling the netbook niche.
They also claimed that netbooks can barely be called personal
computers.
Thom doesn't mince words in declaring that "both of these statements
are complete and utter nonsense" (I unreservedly agree) and proceeds to
demonstrate why by simply writing down all the things he do with his
netbook that the iPhone/iPod touch can't do.
Link:
The iPhone Is Not a Netbook: 'I Can'
Mac OS X/Dell Netbook Experiment
macsparky.com
has been test-driving a Dell Mini 9 OS X enabled netbook, noting that
there are plenty of online tutorials explaining how to do hacked Mac OS
installs and some enterprising folks are selling them online.
The verdict: The keyboard is small, which slows typing performance,
the 9-inch 1024 x 600 display is "inadequate," and the build quality
was also unsatisfactory, leading to an assessment that Steve Jobs'
comment that sub-$500 netbooks are "junk" wasn't far off, and
concluding that a low end MacBook or used MacBook represents a lot
better value for dollar spent.
In the positive column, the reviewer liked the netbook's SSD
drive.
Link: Mac OS
Netbook Experiment
Mac Format Magazine Riffs on an Apple Netbook
UK based Mac Format Magazine weighs in with another speculative
riff on what form an Apple netbook-fighter might take, noting that "the
world and his dog, it would seem, want Apple to make a netbook. Even
that part of the world that has no idea what a netbook is wants Apple
to make one."
Mac Format thinks such a machine will use the iPhone OS, some sort
of docking device with both USB and FireWire (dare we hope?) ports and
a Mini DisplayPort, but no optical drive, although there would be
provision to use an external one, plus provision to connect an external
keyboard and pointing device, integrated 3G broadband, Bluetooth
headphone support
The latest edition of Mac Format showcases Apple's previous attempts
at making a netbook, a la the "quite brilliant" PowerBook Duo and tells
you how you can make your own OS X netbook today.
Link: The
Apple Netbook
Does Apple's Netbook Repudiation Signal a
Shift?
Cnet's Brooke
Crothers suggests that Apple COO Tim Cook's recent negative comments
about Netbooks "may reflect an incipient movement to look beyond this
category of laptops" and echo lingering disaffection with the netbook
business model, citing a New York Times blog's observation that
"contempt may be too kindly a term" to describe Apple's attitude toward
Netbooks.
Crothers predicts that the staying power of Netbooks will be tested
over the next 12 months, but that it's far from time to be writing
their digital obituary, their popularity may become entrenched as
consumers acclimate themselves to this mode of computing, as Atom gets
updated, and as 3G becomes a part of the feature set.
Link: Does Apple's
Netbook Repudiation Signal a Shift?
Apple Doesn't Get Netbooks? Too Bad
IDG News
Service's Dan Nystedt weighs in saying it's "No wonder everyone is
pining for Steve Jobs to return to Apple. Other executives at the
company don't seem to grasp future product trends."
Of course, neither does Steve Jobs as far as netbooks go, at least
based on his comments last October.
As Dan Nystedt observes, "if that's what Apple thinks of netbooks,
it's an odd way to view one of the hottest new product categories
around."
I agree.
Link:
Apple Doesn't Get Netbooks? Too Bad
Jump in Planned Laptop Spending - What Does It Mean
for Apple?
PR:
ChangeWave Research's Director of Research Paul Carton says:
"Back in February, ChangeWave surveys showed a leveling off in the
rate of IT spending decline. But what's going on with consumers and
their personal computers? Are PCs on track for recovery or does the
market remain stuck in low gear?
"According to ChangeWave's April survey of 3,231 consumers, we've
picked up a jump in planned laptop spending going forward - and it's
being led by escalating Netbook demand.
"But what does this mean for PC manufacturers, and Apple in
particular?
PC Outlook: Next 90 Days
"A total of 8% of respondents plan to buy a
laptop in the next 90 days - 2-pts higher than in our February survey
and the first recorded uptick in 17 months. Note that planned spending
on desktops (4%) remains flat.
"These findings concur with ChangeWave's latest survey results on
the overall consumer electronics market, which also shows signs of
stabilizing - albeit at historically low levels.
"But more importantly, the uptick in laptops is at least partially
due to the fact that an already strong demand for Netbooks is
continuing to escalate. Since we first reported higher consumer
interest in the more affordable mini-laptops, overall Netbook demand
has skyrocketed.
"Do
you think the computer you plan on buying over the next 90 days will be
a netbook?
"Currently, nearly a quarter of respondents (23%) who plan to buy a
laptop in the next three months say it'll be a Netbook. That's 5-pts
higher than in our February survey. That's also good news for the
leading Netbook manufacturers including Hewlett-Packard, Acer, and
ASUS.
"But what do these trends mean for Apple?
"Although Apple doesn't yet offer a Netbook, rumors continue to
swirl and analysts remain divided on whether an 'Apple-Book' is going
to be announced in the coming months. Regardless, there are two
conclusions that can be drawn from our current PC survey data on
Apple:
- 2009 has not been a stellar year for Apple Mac sales to date. In
ChangeWave's latest survey, Apple's market share dropped yet again
among consumers who reported they'd bought a computer in the past 90
days.
- Nonetheless, with the jump we're seeing in the number of consumers
who plan to buy laptops over the next 90 days (the first uptick in 17
months), Apple would appear well positioned to benefit going
forward.
"Still, there's the lingering issue of Apple's lack of a
Netbook.
A Closer Look at Apple Mac Sales
"The Street has not expected Apple to outperform in terms of Mac
sales thus far in 2009, and our survey results support this thesis - as
does Apple's latest earning announcement of only 2.2 million Mac units
sold for the quarter, the first year-over-year decline in 5 years.
"First the big picture - based upon our survey results, overall
consumer PC sales languished during the 1st Quarter; hardly surprising
considering the tough economic environment.
"In terms of overall sales, just one-in-ten respondents (10%) say
they bought a laptop over the past 90 days, and 5% a desktop - both
down 1-pt since our previous survey in February.
"Secondly, Apple's market share has also dropped in our survey among
respondents who bought a computer over the past 90 days. Only 18% of
actual purchasers say they bought an Apple laptop and 12% an Apple
desktop in the 1st quarter - down 2-pts and 3-pts, respectively.
"But when we zero in on the overall situation going forward we find
a different story. The uptick in planned laptop buying represents a
healthy sign for Apple. That is, if consumer buying of laptops comes
bouncing back this spring - as this survey shows to be of considerable
likelihood - Apple should be well positioned to benefit.
"Remember, the entire uptick in planned PC
purchases is occurring among laptops - Apple's sweet spot within its
Mac franchise - even as planned spending on desktops remains
essentially unchanged.
"So what does this mean in practical terms?
"While Apple planned laptop purchases (29%) are steady if
unremarkable going forward - down 1-pt since the previous survey - if
the overall consumer laptop market does take off during the next 90
days, it should mean a significant number of new Mac laptop purchases
for Apple.
"The ChangeWave survey results show Apple Mac sales did slow during
the early months of 2009, but that underperformance may simply be due
to the fact the US economy was mired in recession.
"Importantly, the current survey also shows the overall PC
purchasing terrain shifting back into positive territory, with laptop
manufacturers poised to be the biggest beneficiaries.
"Of course, the increase in Netbook sales are an important
contributor to the overall uptick in laptop purchasing intentions, and
this does raise some important questions for Apple.
"First and foremost, if the laptop rebound occurs primarily 'down
market,' i.e., at price points below Apple's, could the company's lack
of a Netbook line prove to be a strategic error for the Cupertino,
California manufacturer?
"It's too early to say for sure, but based upon the escalating
Netbook demand we've been tracking, it's little wonder that the Apple
Netbook rumors continue to circulate and are a source of major
speculation among analysts.
"However, with the wind finally at its back, it appears Apple is
still well positioned to outperform in terms of Mac laptops going
forward.
"We'll continue to monitor this one closely in our ChangeWave
surveys.
Link: ChangeWave
The Battle of the 'Books - PC vs. Mac
The Jambar's
Gary S. Angelo has posted a comparison bake-off between PC
netbook/notebooks an. Apple notebooks, noting that because of software
emphasis and availability, Apple computers mainly cater to
right-brained activities such as video editing with iMovie but have
fewer games to choose among.
Link:
The Battle of the 'Books - PC Netbook/Notebook vs. The Apple
Notebook
'Emergency Use Only' Hard Drive for a MacBook
Pro
Mac OS X
Hints contributor zath says:
"I needed to get my MacBook Pro running again after the hard drive
failed, but the only drive I had available was a desktop 3.5 inch SATA
unit.
"So I opened up the MacBook Pro to see what could be done...."
Link: 'Emergency
Use Only' Hard Drive for a MacBook Pro
Study Puts Value of Lost or Stolen Business
Notebook at $49,000
PR: An independent study
on notebook security, commissioned by Intel Corporation, analyzes the
potential business costs of stolen or lost notebook computers,
suggesting that in an era where "the office" can be almost anywhere,
good security precautions are essential.
The study, which was conducted by the Ponemon Institute, calculated
that notebooks lost or stolen in airports, taxis and hotels around the
world cost their corporate owners an average of $49,246, reflecting the
value of the enclosed data above the cost of the PC.
"For a rapidly growing number of workers, desktop computers have
given way to notebooks, rewarding users with the increased productivity
and freedom that mobility affords," said Mooly Eden, vice president and
general manager, Mobile Platforms Group. "As this trend continues, the
study suggests that companies need to be increasingly vigilant that
their security systems are up for the job. At Intel, providing adequate
security not only requires development of effective technologies, such
as Intel™ Antitheft Technology, but also collaboration with the
leading providers of encryption, data-deletion and other security
services to ensure comprehensive solutions."
Intel undertook the study to better understand the problems and
solutions associated with lost notebooks. The study reveals that
sensitive data, not the notebook itself, is the primary factor driving
costs upward. The study also suggests that use of products and
technologies for encrypting data reduces the financial
consequences.
Analyzing 138 instances of lost and stolen notebooks, the study
based the $49,246 price tag on costs associated with replacement,
detection, forensics, data breach, lost intellectual property, lost
productivity, and legal, consulting and regulatory expenses. Data
breach alone represents 80 percent of the cost.
"This is the first study to benchmark the full cost of a lost or
stolen notebook," said Dr. Larry Ponemon, chairman and founder of the
Ponemon Institute. "Some of the results are startling to say the least,
pointing to the sizable consequences associated with the loss of
notebooks and, more importantly, the data inside them that companies
must consider."
The study also shows that how quickly a company learns of the
missing notebook plays heavily in the eventual cost. The average cost
if the notebook is discovered missing the same day is $8,950, according
to the study. After more than one week, this figure can reach as high
as $115,849.
Who owns a missing notebook also plays an important role in the
cost. Surprisingly, it is not the CEO's computer that is the most
valued, but a director or manager. A senior executive's notebook is
valued at $28,449, while a director or manager's notebook is worth
$60,781 and $61,040, respectively.
Solutions
The study found that data encryption makes the most significant
difference in the average cost: A lost notebook with an encrypted
hard-disk drive is valued at $37,443, compared with $56,165 for a
nonencrypted version.
Intel Antitheft Technology is a "poison pill" solution programmed
into the PC that can be triggered by internal detection mechanisms or
by a remote server to lock a lost or stolen notebook, rendering it
completely useless. The technology can respond, for example, to
repeated login failures or expiration of a timer that requires a
notebook to periodically connect to a central server. Intel Antitheft
Technology, which is available from a growing number of PC
manufacturers, is frequently offered through companies that provide
data-encryption or -deletion services.
Link: Cost of a Lost
Notebook
MacBook Models Compared by Kiwi PC World
New
Zealand PC World's Scott Bartley reports on the most affordable Apple
notebook on the market - the plastic-encased MacBook White, noting that the
biggest spec difference between the low-end machine and the pricier and
slicker base Unibody
MacBook are slightly slower RAM and a smaller hard drive, and
commenting that "whether the better build quality, slightly better
specs and striking good looks of the aluminium-clad MacBook are enough
to warrant the added financial burden is something only you can
answer."
Link:
Apple MacBook
USB Ports Too Close Together on MacBook Pro
Terry White's Tech Blog
observes that the two USB ports on his Unibody MacBook Pro are
"insanely close together", noting that his SanDisk SDHC USB card reader
is just wide enough to block the second port a bit.
Link: USB Ports Too Close Together
on MacBook Pro
Products
USB 2.0 Display Adapter - Add Additional Displays
to Macs & PCs
PR: Other World Computing (OWC) has announced the new OWC USB
2.0 Display Adapter, the easiest way to add an additional display to
Macs and PCs via any standard USB 2.0 port. Functioning like a bus
powered "external video card," the OWC USB 2.0 Display Adapter adds an
additional monitor to desktop and laptop computers that offer only one
built-in display/video-out port. In addition, the adapter also
eliminates the cost and hassle of installing a video card into a
computer.
Single monitors often do not provide enough viewing area to
display desired content; and since the OWC Display Adapter is
lightweight and bus powered with no AC adapter needed, it's easy to
bring on the road. The OWC USB 2.0 Display Adapter makes adding an
additional monitor to any computer an easy three-step process:
- Plug the OWC USB 2.0 Display Adapter into any of the computer's
available USB 2.0 ports.
- Plug the second monitor into the Display Adapter.
- Load the included driver software.
Clone Your Screen, Extend It, or View a Different Display - Supports
up to 6 Simultaneous Displays
The OWC USB 2.0 Display Adapter connects to HDMI, DVI, and VGA
equipped displays (including the latest HD flat panel LCDs, standard
CRT monitors, and projectors) in full 32-bit color at resolutions of up
to 1600 x 1200. Up to 6 adapters can be configured to either clone a
user's primary screen or extend the desktop, allowing visibility of
more applications at the same time on up to 6 individual displays.
Multiple Monitors Increase Productivity 10%-50%
Previously used primarily by financial traders, graphic designers,
and video gamers, multiple displays are now a common requirement for
modern, everyday computer users that require viewing a volume of
personal content and websites simultaneously. Studies have shown
productivity gains of 10% to 50% with multiple monitor use, because
users are able to perform more work in less time and with fewer
errors.
OWC
USB 2.0 Display Adapter Multiple Display Uses:
- Spreadsheets: view large spreadsheets across 2 screens with display
continuity.
- Multitasking: multitask more effectively without overlapping
windows.
- E-mails: open attachments on one screen while reading the e-mail on
the other.
- Reference: type documents on one screen while viewing reference
material on the other.
- Photoshop: design on one screen and use 2nd display for Photoshop
pallets/tools.
- Presentations: use a laptop to run multiple screens during a large
audience presentation.
- Charts/Data: view investment charts and live market data at the
same time.
- TV/movies: view Internet TV or DVD movies on one screen and your
desktop on the other screen.
The OWC USB 2.0 Display Adapter is ready to use straight from the
box, so there's no need to purchase anything extra. It comes complete
with:
- USB to DVI adapter
- DVI to VGA adapter
- DVI to HDMI swivel adapter
- Four foot USB 2.0 cable
- CD-ROM with user guide and software
- One year warranty
Available immediately, the OWC USB 2.0 Display Adapter is priced at
$99 MSRP from Other World Computing at www.macsales.com. Up to 4
adapters can be used with Intel based Macintosh computers running OS X
10.4 and later as well as up to 6 adapters on PCs running MS Windows XP
SP2, Windows 2000 SP4, or Windows Vista with Aero support.
Link: USB
2.0 Display Adapter
Keep Your Laptop Cool with the New Belkin
CushDesk
PR:
Belkin's new CushDesk is designed to keep your legs cool and protected
from a hot laptop.
With CushDesk, you can use your laptop comfortably anywhere in your
home - on your couch, your bed, or the floor. Its solid molded top
provides a smooth and sturdy surface, or "work space." CushDesk is
designed with a slight angle so you can easily view your laptop screen
at a more comfortable angle. Additionally, its slim design lets you
easily store it in your living room or bedroom.
Currently
available in the US.
CushDesk (F8N143) - $29.99
Easy to clean.
Available in the following colors: pitch black/soft gray,
espresso/fuchsia, pitch black/pitch black, pitch black/dark sky
Compatible with PC and Mac laptops with up to a 17-inch display.
Link: Belkin
CushDesk
Ergotron Neo-Flex Notebook Lift Stand
PR: Named 2008 CES Innovations Honoree by Computer
Electronics Association ADEX Platinum winner for design and engineering
excellence by Design Journal, May 2008
Benefits
- Just add an external keyboard and get the comfort of a full desktop
computer system with notebook portability
- Smooth one-step lift and tilt functionality promotes true ergonomic
viewing
- Create a productive dual-display configuration by placing your
notebook's screen alongside an LCD
- Vented platform allows for cooling air flow
- Integrated base rollers enable 360°r; rotation of the stand so
you can share your views with others
- Make group-viewing of family photos or the Internet more enjoyable
and easy
- Superior technical design enables use with or without a port
replicator
- Easy to use - simple installation and effortless operation
- Can be used as a projector platform, too
ergotron2.jpg
Tech Specs
- Capacity: 3.5 - 14 lb./ 1.6 - 6.3 kg
- Lift: 6"°r;/15 cm
- Tilt: +25°r;/-15°r;
- Pan: 360°r;
- Rotation
Neo-Flex Notebook Lift Stand (black) Includes stand, cable ties,
hook and loop, adhesive non-slip pads
Designed for use with a separate, external keyboard for proper
ergonomics
Can be used with projectors; simply turn so rear of stand points
toward the screen to create a projector platform
Height Adjustment:
- A combination of lift and tilt can move the height of a notebook's
screen through a 6" (15 cm) range
- Independent tilt range up to 25°r;
- Patented CF motion technology produces smooth adjustment
- Offers true ergonomic height/tilt adjustment - six-inch (15 cm)
motion range places top of screen at proper eye level for maximum
viewing comfort
- Up to 360°r; of side-to-side swivel
Weight adjustable design - 3.5 - 14 lb. (1.6 - 6.3 kg) - is
compatible with most laptops, with or without port replicator
Shipping Dimensions: 16.2" x 15.6" x 4.8" (412 x 396 x 122 mm)
Warranty: Three (3) years
Link:
Ergotron Neo-Flex Notebook Lift Stand
Antec MX-25 Small, Versatile 2.5" Hard Drive
Enclosure
PR: Antec, Inc. has announced the MX-25 hard drive enclosure,
the latest addition to Antec's VERIS family of media components. The
MX-25 2.5" external hard drive enclosure is designed to offer users
versatility, ease of use, and robust data transfer capability.
The MX-25 supports 2.5" SATA hard drives up to 500 GB, and features
a dual USB 2.0 plus eSATA interface for data transfer speeds of up to
480 Mbps and 3 Gbps, respectively. No external power adapter is
required; users are able to simply install their drive, connect to
their computer, and start transferring their data. The MX-25 also
includes a three-head USB cable and compatibility with the latest
operating systems, including Windows 2000, XP, Vista and Macintosh OS
X.
The smallest of Antec's hard drive enclosures, the MX-25 provides
lightweight portability. The MX-25 weighs 0.4 pounds, and the
streamlined design with black finish makes it suitable for use at home,
in the office, or on the road. The durable casing and sturdy hard drive
cage also ensures that your critical data is not only portable, but
protected.
The MX-25 is designed to give users the features of larger hard
drive enclosures, while delivering convenience and mobility. The MX-25
will join the MX-1 and MX-100 in Antec's VERIS family of media
components, presenting users with three different choices for portable
data storage.
"External hard drive enclosures are a great way for users to add
more capacity to their existing systems," said Scott Richards, senior
vice president of Antec. "The MX-25 is a fantastic enclosure for users
who require robust functionality alongside lightweight
portability."
The MX-25 is available now for an estimated price of $39.95 through
major retailers, e-tailers and distributors. The MX-25 is backed by
Antec's Quality 3-Year Limited Warranty.
Link: Antec
Kingston Adds Mac Compatibility to Secure USB
Flash Drive
PR: Kingston Technology Co., Inc. has announced that its
DataTraveler Vault Privacy Edition (DTVP) USB Flash drive is now
compatible with Apple Mac operating systems (OS X 10.4x
10.5x).
"Our DataTraveler Vault Privacy Edition has been popular
with enterprise and government customers who use Windows-based systems
and are looking for a safe and secure way to transport portable data,"
said Mark Akoubian, Flash memory business manager, Kingston. "We are
happy to add Mac support to this 100-percent secured drive so the Apple
community can be assured they have an on-the-go storage solution that
is the best on the market at safeguarding data."
Data onboard the DTVP is secured by hardware-based, on-the-fly,
256-bit Advanced Encryption Standard (AES). The drive has fast data
transfer rates and is protected from brute-force attacks by locking
down after 10 unsuccessful login attempts. After lockdown, a reformat
is necessary to make the Flash drive operable again. For additional
protection, the DTVP is made of aluminum and is waterproof up to a
depth of four feet.
Kingston DataTraveler Vault Privacy Edition
Part Number, MSRP
(US only. Prices subject to change.)
- DTVP/2 GB, $110.00
- DTVP/4 GB, $177.00
- DTVP/8 GB, $308.00
- DTVP/16 GB, $502.00
- DTVP/32 GB, $910.00
Kingston DataTraveler Vault Privacy Edition
Features/Specifications
- Fully Supports Macintosh OS
- Full Encryption: 100 percent of stored data is protected by
hardware-based, 256-bit Advanced Encryption Standard (AES)
- Fast: data transfer rates of up to 24 MB/sec. read and up to 10
MB/sec write*
- Secure: drive locks down and reformats after 10 intrusion
attempts
- Enforced Password Protection: complex password is user set with
minimum characteristics to prevent unauthorized access
- Easy to Use: no admin rights or application installation
required
- Guaranteed: five-year warranty with 24/7 customer support
- Durable: aluminum casing
- Waterproof: protects against water damage**
- Dimensions: 3.06 3 x 0.9 3 x 0.47 3 (77.9 mm x 22.2 mm x 12.05
mm)
- Capacities***: 2 GB, 4 GB, 8 GB, 16 GB, 32 GB
- Compatibility: designed to USB 2.0 specifications
- Operating Temperatures: 32 F to 140 F (0 C to 60 C)
- Storage Temperatures: -4 F to 185 F (-20 C to 85 C)
* Speed may vary due to host hardware, software and usage
** Up to 4 ft.; conforms to IEC 60529 IPX8. Product must be clean
and dry before use.
*** Note: Some of the listed capacity is used for formatting and
other functions and thus is not available for data storage.
Link: DataTraveler Vault -
Privacy Edition
Ingram Micro Expands Line of V7 Laptop Cases
PR: V7, the exclusive house brand for Ingram Micro Inc. and
provider of premier computer accessories worldwide, today announced the
expansion of its popular "V7 by Targus" line of laptop bags.
The new additions to the line of V7 carrying cases manufactured by
Targus include a premium TSA "checkpoint-friendly" top-loading case,
two backpacks, a messenger bag and sleeves for both 17-inch and
15.6-inch laptops. As with the previously announced products, the
expanded line of high-value V7 by Targus laptop computer carrying cases
feature quality materials and a distinctive design to meet the needs of
the economical, fashion-conscious, business-casual user.
"We're pleased with the response from our VAR and SMB customers to
our first V7 by Targus laptop computer cases announced earlier this
year," said Kevin Prewett, vice president of vendor management for
North America, Ingram Micro Inc. "These latest products offer more
choices for customers wanting the same quality, reliability and
performance from first-tier brands without paying premium prices."
The V7 by Targus notebook
case category currently features the Deluxe Toploader Case. The new
additions in this category include:
Premium Toploader Case - Designed with the consistent business
traveler in mind, the Premium Toploader Case includes the
patent-pending Airport Checkpoint Friendly feature that allows a
traveler to keep the laptop inside the case while going through airport
security.
Able to accommodate up to a 15.6-inch widescreen notebook, the
Premium Toploader Case includes a dedicated padded notebook
compartment, a separate zippered file section with two internal padded
accessory pockets and two front pockets for easy access to pens,
business cards, keys and other accessories. An adjustable, padded
shoulder strap provides optimum comfort and weight distribution.
Available in black with gray accents, the manufacturer's suggested
retail price (MSRP) for the Premium Toploader Case is $69.95.
Standard Frontloader Case - Available in both 15.6- and 17-inch
sizes, the Standard Frontloader Cases feature a lightweight design with
a dedicated, padded notebook computer compartment with a webbed
security strap for added protection. A front-zippered pocket provides
quick access to business cards, pens, keys or other accessories. An
adjustable, padded shoulder strap offers optimum comfort and weight
distribution. Available in black with gray accents, the MSRPs for the
15.6- and 17-inch Standard Frontloader Cases are $29.95 and $39.95
respectively.
Value Toploader Case - Designed to fit up to a 15.6-inch widescreen
laptop, the Value Toploader Case features a dedicated padded notebook
section and a separate zippered file section with two internal padded
accessory pockets. The zippered front pocket is perfect for holding
pens and business cards. The adjustable, padded shoulder strap offers
optimum comfort and weight distribution. Available in black with gray
accents, the MSRP for the Value Toploader Case is $44.95.
The V7 by Targus
backpack line currently features the Urban and Urban Slim Backpacks.
The new addition in this category is the Deluxe Backpack. Designed to
accommodate up to a 15.6-inch widescreen laptop, the Deluxe Backpack
features a dedicated padded notebook compartment, a workstation that
includes a key clip, three pen loops, two accessory pockets and a
sleeve for files or other paper work. Two additional side zipper
pockets provide additional storage of accessories. Available in black
with gray accents, the MSRP for the Deluxe Backpack is $49.95.
In the messenger case
category, the latest V7 by Targus entry is the Standard Messenger Case.
Designed to accommodate up to a 15.6-inch widescreen laptop, the
Standard Messenger Case features a dedicated padded notebook
compartment with enough space left over to store books and paperwork.
The bag also features a front pocket, two side mesh pockets for water
bottles, a key clip, two pen loops and a cell phone pocket. The
adjustable, padded shoulder strap provides optimum comfort and weight
distribution. Available in black with gray accents, the MSRP for the
Standard Messenger Case is $24.95.
Finally, in addition to the Smart Slip Case, the 15.6-inch and
17-inch Standard Sleeves round out the V7 by Targus slip case category.
Designed to be a soft, lightweight solution to protect laptops from
scratches and dust, these cases can be used alone or within an existing
laptop case. Available in black with gray accents, the MSRPs for the
15.6- and 17-inch Standard Sleeves are $14.95 and $19.95
respectively.
All V7 products are available through Ingram Micro's VAR customers
including government and education resellers and online e-tailers. VARs
and retailers can contact their Ingram Micro sales team at
1-800-456-8000 for more information or to order V7 by Targus carrying
cases.
V7 is Ingram Micro's exclusive global house brand for high-quality
IT accessories, peripherals, and supplies, including notebook computer
cases, replacement batteries, LCD monitors, cables, keyboards, mice,
and toner. Leveraging worldwide operational excellence, real-time
market intelligence and global sourcing power, V7 delivers state of the
art products at an unmatched value, maximizing return on investment for
resellers and higher customer satisfaction.
Link: V7
Bargain 'Books
Bargain 'Books are used unless otherwise indicated. New and
refurbished units have a one-year Apple warranty and are eligible for
AppleCare.
PowerBook, iBook, and MacBook profiles linked in our Portable Mac Index.
A good selection of old-school MacBooks this week as low as $849,
plus a full slate of refurb Unibodies, save for the 17-incher.
- refurb 1.6 GHz MacBook Air, 2 GB/80, $999
- refurb 1.6 GHz MacBook Air, Nvidia, 2 GB/120, $1,549
- refurb 1.8 GHz MacBook Air, 2 GB/80, $1,099
- refurb 1.8 GHz MacBook Air, 2 GB/64 SSD, $1,299
- refurb 2.0 GHz MacBook White, 1 GB/120/SD, $849
- refurb 2.1 GHz MacBook White, 1 GB/120/Combo, $849
- refurb 2.0 GHz Unibody MacBook, 2 GB/160/SD, $1,099
- refurb 2.0 GHz Unibody MacBook, 2 GB/128 SSD/SD, $1,699
- refurb 2.4 GHz Unibody MacBook, 2 GB/128 SSD/SD, $1,899
- refurb 15" 2.4 GHz Core 2 MacBook Pro, 2 GB/250/SD, $1,699
- refurb 15" 2.53 GHz Unibody MacBook Pro, 4 GB/320/SD, $1,999
- refurb 17" hi-res 2.5 GHz Core 2 MacBook Pro, 2 GB/200/SD,
$1,899
- refurb 17" 2.6 GHz Core 2 MacBook Pro, 2 GB/200 GB @ 7200 rpm/SD,
$1,899
GainSaver Macintosh Stimulus Sale on Certified Preowned Macs
GainSaver has announced that it is extending the duration of its
Macintosh Stimulus Sale, as well as lowering promotional prices even
further.
Hundreds more used Macs are arriving daily, and GainSaver is facing
a logistical problem of where to put them all. The company has too many
units in stock right now of every Macintosh model: iMac, iBook,
MacBook, MacBook Pro, and Mac Pro systems.
"Top priority is selling units on hand at whatever price we have to,
"said Steve Harper, director of sales at GainSaver. "I think we now
have the most used Macs for sale anywhere under one roof. We need to
clear some out just to make some room. It is a buyer's market."
GainSaver announced the company's lowest prices ever on every used
Mac in stock.
- $494 - MacBook 13.3" 1.83 GHz Intel Core Duo White (MA254LL/A)
- $557 - MacBook 13.3" 2.0 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo Black
(MA701LL/A)
- $548 - MacBook 13.3" 2.0 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo White
(MA700LL/A)
- $530 - MacBook 13.3" 2.0 GHz Intel Core Duo White (MA255LL/A)
- $575 - MacBook 13.3" 2.16 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo Black
(MB063LL/A)
- $593 - MacBook 13.3" 2.16 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo White
(MB062LL/A)
- $683 - MacBook Pro 15.4" 1.83 GHz Intel Core Duo (MA463LL/A)
- $710 - MacBook Pro 15.4" 2.0 GHz Intel Core Duo (MA600LL/A)
- $773 - MacBook Pro 15.4" 2.16 GHz Intel Core Duo (MA601LL/A)
- $836 - MacBook Pro 15.4" 2.16 GHz Core 2 Duo (MA609LL/A)
- $809 - MacBook Pro 15.4" 2.2 GHz Core 2 Duo (MA895LL/A)
- $863 - MacBook Pro 15.4" 2.33 GHz Core 2 Duo (MA610LL/A)
- $584 - 17" PowerBook G4/1.0 GHz (M8793LL/A)
- $629 - 17" PowerBook G4/1.33 GHz (M9110LL/A)
- $719 - 17" PowerBook G4/1.67 GHz (M9970LL/A)
- $107 - 17" Studio Display (M7649ZM/A)
- $1,169 - MacBook Pro 17' 2.33 GHz Core 2 Duo (MA611LL/A)
GainSaver customers can build their own customized Macintosh system
at the GainSaver website using the System Configurator. They can choose
the components they need from a range of hard drives, optical drives
and memory configurations. All components are installed and tested
before shipping.
The Certified Preowned Macintosh computers sold by GainSaver have
been fully tested and certified by the company's trained Apple
technicians. Every major component is verified to be in 100% working
order before shipment. Certified Preowned Macs from GainSaver come
ready to boot up and use with Apple OS X and Apple iLife installed.
Stimulus Sale pricing will continue until inventory is reduced to
manageable levels.
- 1.6 GHz MacBook Air, 2 GB/80, $1,099.99
- 2.0 GHz Core 2 MacBook, 2 GB/160/SD, $1,209.99
- 2.4 GHz Core 2 MacBook, 2 GB/250/SD, $1,489.99
- 15" 2.4 GHz Core 2 MacBook Pro, 2 GB/250/SD, $1,799.99
- 15" 2.53 GHz Unibody MacBook Pro, 4 GB/320/SD, $2,199.99
- 17" 2.5 GHz Core 2 MacBook Pro, 2 GB/250/SD, $1,949.99
- 17" 2.66 GHz Unibody MacBook Pro, 4 GB/320/SD, $2,579.99
- 12" iBook G3/500, 128/10/CD, $169.99
- 12" iBook G3/600, 128/15/CD, $249.99
- 12" iBook G3/700, 128/20/Combo, $329.99
- 12" iBook G3/800, 256/30/Combo, $399.99
- 12" iBook G3/900, 256/40/Combo, $489.99
- 12" PowerBook G4/867, 256/40/Combo, $489.99
- 1.83 GHz Core Duo MacBook, white, 512/60/Combo, $594.99
- 2.0 GHz Core Duo MacBook, white, 512/60/Combo, $659.99
- 2.0 GHz Core Duo MacBook, black, 512/80/SD, $719.99
- 2.0 GHz Core 2 MacBook, white, 1 GB/80/SD, $769.99
- 2.0 GHz Core 2 MacBook, black, 1 GB/120/SD, $799.99
- 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 G4/1.25 GHz, 256/60/Combo, $599.99
- 15" Aluminum PowerBook G4/1.33 GHz, 256/60/Combo, $639.99
- 15" Aluminum PowerBook G4/1.5 GHz, 1 GB/80/Combo, $679.99
- 15" Aluminum PowerBook G4/1.67 GHz, 1 GB/80/SD, APX, $729.99
- 15" hi-res Aluminum PowerBook G4/1.67 GHz, 512/80/SD, APX,
$799.99
- 17" 2.16 GHz MacBook Pro, 1 GB/120/SD, $1,329.99
- 12" PowerBook G4/1 GHz, 1.25 GB/40/Combo, $499
- 1.83 GHz MacBook, white, 1 GB/60 GB/Combo, $579
- 2.0 GHz MacBook, white, 1 GB/60/Combo, $589
- 2.0 GHz MacBook, white, 1 GB/60/SD, $629
- 2.0 GHz MacBook, black, 1 GB/160/SD, $679
- 14" iBook G4/933 MHz, 640/40/Combo, APX, $379
- 14" iBook G4/1.33 GHz, 1 GB/40/SD, APX, $449
- 15" 1.83 GHz MacBook Pro, 2 GB/80/SD, $849
- 15" 2.0 GHz MacBook Pro, 2 GB/80/SD, $899
- 17" PowerBook G4/1.33 GHz, 1 GB/80/SD, scratched, $649
- 17" PowerBook G4/1.5 GHz, 1 GB/80/SD $799
- 17" PowerBook G4/1.67 GHz, 1 GB/120/SD $899
- 15" hi-res PowerBook G4/1.67 GHz, 1 GB/80/SD, $609
For more deals on current and discontinued 'Books, see our MacBook, MacBook Air, 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 iPod
touch, iPod
classic, iPod nano,
and iPod shuffle
deals.
