The 'Book Review

Extended Coverage for MacBook Air Hinge, Mac Portable Retrospective, iBook as Netbook, and More

This Week's MacBook, PowerBook, and iBook News

Compiled by Charles Moore and edited by Dan Knight - 2009.09.25

General Apple and Mac desktops is covered in The Mac News Review. iPod, iPhone, and Apple TV news is covered in The iNews Review. All prices are in US dollars unless otherwise noted.

News & Opinion

History

Products & Services

Software

Bargain 'Books

News & Opinion

Apple Extends Coverage on Defective MacBook Air Hinges

A new Apple Knowledge Base article has some suggestions for what to do if you experience one or more of these issues with the hinges on your MacBook Air:

  • Unable to close lid completely.
  • Broken or cracked plastic near one or both of the hinges.
  • More than one inch (2.54cm) of free play while opening or closing the lid.
  • Lid falls freely into closed position from a 30-degree open position. (From a closed position, open the lid approximately 30 degrees and let go.)

Suggested resolutions: You can either take your MacBook Air to an Apple-Authorized Service Provider or Apple Retail Store for evaluation and repair if necessary, even if your product is out of warranty, or if you previously paid for a repair for hinge-related issues that were not caused by accidental damage, you may be eligible for a refund.

Is a Used $400 12" iBook G4 a Better Netbook?

CNet's Rick Broida says that while in a literal sense Apple has yet to join the exploding Netbook market, the fruit company may actually have pioneered it.

Broida observes that the iBook G4, which debuted in late 2003 and has since been discontinued, has specs that remind him a lot of modern netbooks - pokey processor, smallish screen and hard drive, compact design, low price....

Building a Pismo from 3 Dead Ones

The Vintage Mac Museum Blog's Adam Rosen affirms that "one of his favorite Macs is the PowerBook G3 'Pismo', the final iteration of the black G3 lineage", calling the Pismo "a marvel of elegance, in terms of aesthetics, design and serviceability", as well as being very reliable and a favorite of Mac fans since it's introduction.

Recently, Adam picked up three Pismos for $100 for the lot on Craigslist, albeit they were all missing some key components - 2 out of 3 had processor cards, none had optical drives, none Airport cards, no RAM in any of them as well as missing hard drives and power supplies, and none would power up or show any signs of life.

Adam negotiated a partial refund with the seller, then set to work, and remarkably was able with a bit of effort and elbow-grease construct one fully working Pismo out of the lot for a total purchase cost after refund of $60.

Select the Best Mac Laptops for Enterprise Users

Tech Republic's Erik Eckel analyzes Mac laptops and recommends the best models for business uses and job roles, commenting that no longer should IT professionals debate the role of Macintosh computers in the enterprise. Eckel cites a recent Yankee Group survey of 750 global IT administrators and executives that found 80 percent of respondents using Macs.

Dead MacBook Pro Displays: Update 2

LogicalVue's Paul Lefebvre says:

"It appears a lot of people have been affected by the Nvidia chip bug. A poster on the Apple Discussion forums posted that he suspects more people are being affected by this now because of Snow Leopard, which uses the GPU more heavily. This seems plausible to me.

"Anyway, still no love for my MacBook Pro. It's been sitting at the Apple Repair Center since 9/15 with the status "On hold - Part on order". As of today that means the part has been on order for a week and still hasn't arrived. So more waiting for me.

"Considering that others have said the repair has taken as little as 3 days, I think that Apple might be overwhelmed with this issue right now and perhaps doesn't have enough parts."

Add More RAM to Your iMac, MacBook, Mac mini, or MacBook Pro for Less

PR: OWC blogger Chris S. says:

"There are few constants in life. Death and taxes are the cliché ones. I'll also add to the list the Chicago Cubs not making it to the World Series, movies based off of video games being terrible, and memory upgrades from Apple costing way too much.

"That last one is a big one in the Mac community; it can cost up to $1100 to upgrade the latest model iMac, MacBook or MacBook Pro to a full 8 GB if you get your memory from Apple.

"That's just plain silly.

"As we have mentioned time and time again, adding more memory is - dollar for dollar - the most cost-effective upgrade you can perform on your Mac, a constant that is even more true now that Snow Leopard is on the scene. That is, of course, as long as you don't fall into the trap of buying your memory from Apple.

"OWC now has 8 GB upgrade kits for $519.99...."

One in Five Buyers Interested in Apple's Unseen Tablet

AppleInsider's Neil Hughes reports that despite the fact that no one has seen it, a new survey of 3,100 people by ChangeWave in a new note to investors from RBC Capital Markets says 21% of buyers express interest in purchasing an Apple tablet device - well more than the 9% who said they were interested in the original iPhone in April 2007, and that demand, along with strong Mac and iPhone sales, is expected to propel the company's stock possibly as high as $250. The survey projected that the Apple tablet would be priced between $500 and $700.

Apple Cheaping Out on Bundled Peripherals?

The Houston Chronicle's Dwight Silverman says he's considering buying a new notebook computer. Dwight loves his black MacBook, but it's coming up on three years old, and he's got an upcoming project that requires a newer portable. He's been looking at the current 13.3" MacBook Pro, and has noticed something that bothers him - no bundled Remote Control (now an $18 accessory). Not a huge amount, but irritating, and as Silverman suggests - chintzy, stingy and miserly - particularly given how much Macs cost.

New MacBook Redesign Rumors Building Slowly but Steadily

DPMac's George Mann says:

"Usually there are some leaked photos, highly realistic renderings and detailed (even if imaginary) specifications, but not this time. The rumors are actually so sparse, that at times I wonder if I am reading and reporting on a modified version of a rumor that I started myself. The only thing that seems to be for sure is that the (plastic) MacBook looks out of place next to the aluminum uni-body MacBook Pros, and that the low-end MacBook is still one of Apple's best selling computers...."

History

20th Anniversary Tribute to the Misunderstood Mac Portable

Technologizer's Harry McCracken further notes that "ever since Apple announced its first true portable computer on September 20th 1989, folks have been tearing it down, complaining that It was too big and heavy, the screen was hard to read, and it offered too little for too much money."

However, McCracken reports that computer historian Benj Edwards recently literally tore down a Mac Portable on his workbench, documenting the process with photographs.

Editor's note: Also see The Misunderstood Macintosh Portable, which we posted this past January as we celebrated 25 years of Macs. dk

20 Years of Apple Laptops: From Mac Portable to MacBook Pro

Ars Technica's Eric Bangeman says:

"Sunday marked the 20th anniversary of the first portable Macintosh computer, the aptly-named Macintosh Portable. While it was indeed portable, it was anything but svelte....

"In recognition of the 20-year anniversary of the Macintosh Portable, let's look back at some of the superstars of Apple's laptop lineup - as well as a couple of duds that should never have made it out of Cupertino."

Bangeman's list:

Editor's note: Interestingly, I owned both of the 'duds' cited in this article - the PowerBook 5300 and a G3 dual-USB iBook. Both treated me pretty well, and the 5300 at age 13 still works, although the iBook died earlier this year after six years of almost flawless service. cm

20 Years of Notable Apple Laptops

Macworld's Benj Edwards says:

"Over the last 20 years, Apple has released more than 89 distinct laptop computers. From the first Macintosh Portable in 1989, to the PowerBooks, to the latest, greatest MacBook Pro, consumers witnessed a wide range of cutting-edge design variations over the years that often presaged industry-wide trends in portable computing. As an early adopter of color LCD displays, CD-ROM drives, WiFi, and trackpads in its laptops, Apple drove the adoption of new portable technologies and inspired competitors to follow in its footsteps. Here are ten models that most vividly illustrate the evolution of Apple's laptop philosophy over the past two decades."

The 5 Most Important Mac Laptops

Macworld's Benj Edwards says:

"The Macintosh already enjoyed its silver anniversary this year, but it's not the only Mac product to hit a milestone in 2009. Twenty years ago this week, Apple introduced its first laptop computer - the Macintosh Portable.

"Over the years, many important Mac laptops have defined Apple's course in the portable market. Here are five most significant laptops to come out of Cupertino in the last two decades, along with why they enjoyed such a lasting influence."

Edwards lists the MacBook Pro, Titanium PowerBook G4, Clamshell iBook, PowerBook 520, and PowerBook 100 as the five most important 'Books.

Editor's note: For my take on this topic, see The Five Most Important Apple Laptops - A Contrarian View. cm

Macintosh Portable vs. MacBook Air: What a Difference 20 Years Makes

Technologizer's Harry McCracken marks the twentieth anniversary last Sunday of the first truly mobile Mac, the Macintosh Portable, noting that when you hear the Portable mentioned at all these days, it's mostly to mock its size - rather hefty even by late 1980s standards and absurd today. McCracken does a quick comparison of the Portable with today's most portable Mac, the MacBook Air, which he says like its 1989 ancestor has been criticized for being compromised and pricey, although the parallels would seem to end there with the Portable and the Air being polar opposite extremes in terms of form factor - the Air the lightest mobile Mac Apple has ever made, and the Portable the heaviest. 12.8" x 8.94" x .16-.76" and 3.0 pounds vs. 15.25" x 14.8" x 4" and 16 pounds respectively.

Products & Services

First USB 3.0 ExpressCard Adapter

The Register's Tony Smith says he's not expecting to see SuperSpeed USB devices shown off in significant numbers until next year, but a few have turned up at Intel Developer Forum, and while none of us yet have USB 3.0-compatible computers - and it may be some time before we get one - but if you have a machine that supports ExpressCard 34 expansion, Fresco Logic also has an ExpressCard 34 add-in with a USB 3.0 port at the business end.

DisplayLink Certified Nanovision USB Mini Monitor Makes Multi-Display on the Go a Reality

MIMO Nanovision USB Mini MonitorPR: Multi-monitor computing is now as quick and easy as opening a backpack or briefcase with Nanovision's newest MIMO mini-monitor, a portable, instantly-connectable, cool consumer gadget powered by DisplayLink USB graphics technology.

Available starting now, the portable 7" MIMO 710-S and 720-S are designed to provide extra screen space without any connectivity or setup hassles, benefiting consumers and workers on the road and in the office alike. With just a simple DisplayLink USB connection between the MIMO and laptops, netbooks or desktops, people can use the mini-monitor to expand their visual space providing more room to keep an eye on social media apps like Twitter, Facebook or instant messaging; more space to set up business tools like stock charts, calendars and task lists; and more flexibility to showcase anything from digital photos to Apple iTunes selections.

"Multi-display computing no longer has to be confined to the desktop," said Michael Ahn, GM, Nanovision. "MIMO is a snap to connect and display for complete productivity on-the-go."

MIMO Nanovision USB Mini MonitorIn addition, the new MIMO 720-S offers a touch screen interface allowing people to press and process the applications they need.

"Just like its predecessor, the new MIMO 720-S is a versatile, vibrant accessory that couldn't be simpler to use," said Dennis Crespo, DisplayLink executive vice president of marketing and business development. "And DisplayLink's USB technology not only provides graphics connectivity but also serves as MIMO's power source. So travelers can get all of the productivity of an extra monitor without carrying anything other than the lightweight, envelope-sized MIMO and USB cable."

The MIMO 710-S and 720-S LCD mini-monitors support 800 x 480 resolution, offers a 400:1 contrast ratio, are compatible with Intel-based Macs, and come with Windows XP and Vista drivers. Designed to be ultra-portable for people on the go, each device folds down flat to slide into a netbook or notebook bag, and then unfolds from their integrated case into landscape or portrait orientations for maximum productivity. They also support mirrored, extended, and primary modes.

Earlier MIMO products also have relied on DisplayLink USB graphics technology, but the MIMO 710-S and 720-S displays are the first mini-monitors to receive the "DisplayLink Certified" designation. This ensures that they have passed a high level of functionality and interoperability testing.

MIMO Nanovision USB Mini MonitorThe Nanovision MIMO 710-S and 720-S are immediately available and are estimated at $149 and $229.99, respectively. It is available through various online channels including online at ThinkGeek.com. For more information visit the DisplayLink shop.

Atlona Technologies DVI to Mini DisplayPort Converter for Nearly Every Mac Available

PR: There's plenty of pent-up demand for this one. Atlona Technologies has released its new DVI to Mini DisplayPort converter that allows the use of new Mini-DisplayPort enabled monitors such as the Apple 24'' Cinema Display on DVI machines

Atlona DVI to Mini DisplayPort ConverterMany Mac users who purchased their computers before 2009 had been running into a brick wall when considering purchasing an Apple Cinema 24'' or any of the new Mini DisplayPort monitors being released this year and next. Mac forums all over the Internet have been buzzing with users trying to verify if DVI was compatible with Mini DisplayPort. The answer up to now has been that computers with DVI video ports are not compatible with monitors using Mini DisplayPort , making it impossible to use any of the new displays offered by not only Apple, but Dell or CinemaView, with DVI computers. Going from Mini DisplayPort to DVI is simple, and many products are already on the market allowing this conversion, including Atlona's AT13026 adapter, but there have been none on the market that allow the opposite conversion, until now.

Atlona DVI to Mini DisplayPort ConverterAtlona Technologies is first out of the blocks with the first and only conversion box so far that will convert DVI to Mini DisplayPort while maintaining the display's optimal resolution and HDCP compatibility. Atlona's new AT-DP200 converter, which starts shipping next week, inputs DVI and outputs Mini DisplayPort signal while passing along all EDID and HDCP information. This device converts while allowing your computer to scale to the optimal resolution offered by your display including 1920 by 1200 or 1280 by 800. Atlona say they made sure The AT-DP200 was put through extensive testing in Apple's compatibility lab, putting it up against every single Apple computer with a DVI port, and every monitor featuring Mini DisplayPort. The product also received through PC interoperability testing with all standard DVI video cards. This device will allow use of any Mini Display port product with and DVI graphics card, meaning the new 24" Cinema Displays from Apple can be used by users with legacy Macs.

"This new product will boost Apple sales for their 24 inch monitors..." says Atlona Product Manager Michael Khain, "where users who purchased before the format change were previously unable to upgrade to the Cinema Display, now with this new converter their market just got that much bigger."

Mac tested and Mac approved, the new AT-DP200 DVI to Mini DisplayPort falls right in line with the rest of the bleeding edge products designed to keep the AV world connected and will undoubtedly give Mac users exactly what they have been waiting for. The new AT-DP200 will start shipping next week (Sept. 29th) with an MSRP of $179.

Atlona DVI to Mini DisplayPort Converter. Model: AT-DP200 Technical Notes

The Atlona AT-DP200 is a DVI to Mini DisplayPort converter designed to convert every Mac or PC computer's DVI or mini-DVI signal to a digital signal over a Mini DisplayPort connector, which is currently used on the Apple 24'' Display. The AT-DP200 allows users to extend their desktop to an Apple 24'' (or similar DisplayPort display). Users can use the connected monitor as their main display or extend their desktop using it in addition to their laptop's screen. The Atlona DVI to Mini-Display Port Converter is compatible with all Apple and PC Computers which have a DVI or Mini-DVI connections.

Key Features:

  • Compatible with All Mac and PC computers with DVI output
  • Supports High Resolutions up to 1920x1200
  • Full EDID management allows storing EDID information on the converter to make sure there is always a connection in between the computer and display
  • Re-Clocking technology will insure that signal stays the same quality as it was before entering the converter
  • Video Pass-Though, no scaling

Technical Specifications:

  • Input: DVI female (digital signal only)
  • Output: Mini Display Port female
  • Resolutions: all resolutions up to 1920x1200 (It is Important to select one of the resolutions that display is capable of displaying, refer to your display's users manual)
  • Power Supply: 5V/2.6A DC (110/220v)
  • Dimensions: 4.7(W) x 3.7(D) x 1.3(H) - inch
  • Weight: 0.5 lb.
  • Gross Weight: 2 lb.

Warranty: 3 year manufacture warranty (parts&labor)

$179

8 New Kensington Accessories Bring You the Power to Travel Light

PR: Kensington Computer Products Group has introduced eight new products to help users boost the everyday performance of their mobile devices. Kensington has created affordable, easy to use, and pocketable accessories to accompany netbooks, smartphones, and other portable devices. The ideal technology enhancers to bring on the go include: an all-in-one travel battery pack, two car chargers, a 4-piece car kit, a videochat light, a 4-port USB mobile hub, and two mice for netbooks.

The smart made simple design gives any household the power to travel light and stay connected to its personal technology. Mobile and portable devices continue to evolve from individually used technology tools into an everyday mobile lifestyle. Gartner research claims mobile devices sales will grow at a rate of 32% in 2009. Additionally, a 2009 NPD survey shows that smartphone users purchase 27% greater accessories (52% vs. 41%) than basic phone users. This ever-growing popularity of mobile devices means users need a new generation of multifunction accessories that can accompany them anywhere they go.

Kensington Travel Battery Pack and Charger for iPhone and iPod touch (SKU K33456US; SRP $69.99)

  • Perfect for long flights and small travel bags, here´s a big boost of power with zero charging cables to pack. Everything you need to charge and power your device is built in to the Kensington Travel Battery Pack and Charger for iPhone and iPod touch. It even doubles as a kickstand for handsfree landscape viewing of movies and videos when you're on the road. All-in-one design; no cables needed.
  • Built-in dock connector to charge your iPhone and flip-out USB tip to recharge without the mess of extra cables
  • Extends play time up to 23 hours music, up to 7 hours of video and up to 5 hours of talk time. Extended play time listed based on iPhone 3G
  • LED battery gauge displays remaining battery pack power level
  • Rechargeable lithium-ion battery for iPhone and iPod touch

Kensington USB Car Charger (SKU K38054US; SRP $9.99)

Charge your Blackberry or any other USB-powered device without cluttering up your car. The Kensington USB Car Charger has all the power you need in an ultra low profile design that integrates into your vehicle's interior.

  • Charges any USB-powered device, including mobile phones/smartphones, iPhone, iPod, MP3 players and more. (USB Power Tips sold separately, for more information, visit www.kensington.com)
  • Compatible with most vehicle power ports
  • Includes a LED power indicator

Kensington USB Car Charger for iPhone and iPod (SKU K38058US; SRP $19.99)

Here's the car charger that's just as sleek as your iPhone or iPod. The Kensington USB Car Charger for iPhone and iPod has all the power you need in an ultra low profile design that integrates into your vehicle's interior.

  • Detachable USB cable, charges and synchs your iPhone or iPod from your car or computer
  • Compatible with most vehicle power ports
  • Compatible with iPhone 3GS, iPhone 3G, iPhone, iPod touch, iPod nano (1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th gen), iPod classic, iPod mini, iPod (1st, 2nd, 4th, 5th gen)
  • Includes a LED power indicator

Kensington Car and Wall Charger for Mini and Micro USB Devices (SKU K38057US; SRP $29.99)

Here's everything you need to charge your Blackberry devices and other mini or micro USB devices whether you're at home or on the road. The Kensington Car and Wall Charger for Mini and Micro USB Devices comes complete with a USB Car Charger, a USB wall adapter, and a mini USB charging cable with micro USB adapter.

  • 4-piece charging kit for USB powered devices at home or in the car
  • Charges any USB-powered device, including mobile phones/smartphones, iPhone, iPod, MP3 players and more
  • Lightweight and ultra low profile USB Car Charger with USB power port and LED power indicator
  • Wall adapter with USB power port, mini and micro USB charging cable included

Kensington Video Chat Light for Netbooks (SKU K33932US; SRP $14.99)

Brighten up your video chats with the Kensington Video Chat Light for Netbooks. It plugs into any USB port and easily adjusts to help you look your best whether you´re at the office or relaxing on the sofa.

  • Brightens up your video chats to help you look your best
  • Flexible gooseneck adjusts easily to direct light wherever it´s needed
  • On/off and dimmer switch to clearly see and be seen

Kensington Mobile Hub for Netbooks (SKU K33933US; SRP $14.99)

More ports means simpler synching for your netbook and mobile devices with the Kensington Mobile Hub for Netbooks. It expands one USB port into four to connect your favorite USB devices. The compact design goes wherever you and your netbook go.

  • Works with USB devices such as cameras, MP3 players, mobile phones/smartphones, and more
  • Compact design makes the hub easy to carry anywhere

Kensington Wireless Mouse for Netbooks (SKU K72349US; SRP $24.99)

The Kensington Wireless Mouse for Netbooks is the simple, comfortable wireless mouse you need for your netbook. The nano USB receiver is so small, you can plug it in and leave it in. Plus, the built-in scroll wheel makes scrolling through web pages fast and easy- no more messing with the tiny touchpad on your netbook.

  • 2 AAA batteries included
  • Stay plugged in with a nano USB receiver
  • A wireless receiver means no more messy cables

Kensington Wired Mouse for Netbooks (SKU K72348US; SRP $14.99)

Simplicity, comfort, and reliability come together in the Kensington Wired Mouse for Netbooks. The built-in scroll wheel makes scrolling through web pages fast and easy. Plus, the compact design makes travel a breeze.

  • Includes 2 ft. USB cable

Speck Expands Line of Notebook Bags

PR: Speck, a leading designer and manufacturer of cases and bags for popular consumer electronics, today unveiled its newest family of notebook bags, packs and sleeves. This fresh generation of notebook carrying solutions features all-new colors, patterns and a host of design upgrades and enhancements.

Speck Notebook Bags"We've focused on maintaining the spirit of the original designs while bringing new twists and colors to the consumer," said Bryan Hynecek, Lead Designer at Speck. "I've really pushed our design team to re-evaluate every aspect of the original bags since they entered the marketplace at the beginning of the year. We've kept what worked well, and improved in other areas, both in subtle and dramatic ways. The result is a more durable, fashionable and functional bag for today's on-the-go consumer."

Speck bags have received numerous accolades and earned critical and consumer acclaim for their thoughtful blend of style and function. Popular styles - including the PortPack shoulder bag, AftPack backpack and TuckPack sleeve - all return with new features and fabric combinations - while the all-new CorePack FLY messenger bag offers a security checkpoint-friendly design that speeds notebook users through airport security screening without having to remove the notebook from the bag. Additional enhancements include larger storage pockets to accommodate a wider variety of notebook sizes, increased comfort and flexibility, and more resilient, durable fabrics. New colors and patterns include the techy-flavored Restart GreyScale Pixel with electric key lime green interior the vibrant Velocity Plum Stripe with robin's egg blue interior (featured on PortPack and Tuckpack only) and the dress-it-up or dress-it-down refined Speakeasy Grey Pinstripe with slate grey interior.

The signature features and attention to details found in a Speck bag have been the key to their success. All bags and packs include extra-plush micro-fleece padded notebook storage compartment, media player storage pocket with headphone cord pass-through, comfortable and durable adjustable seat-belt style nylon-webbed shoulder straps with high-performance buckles and ample deep-well storage and organization pockets and pouches.

Additional details about Speck's new bags and packs:

NEW - CorePack FLY Airport Checkpoint Friendly Notebook Messenger Bag - Holds up to 15" Notebooks

CorePack FLY Notebook Messenger Bag The initial CorePack launched with widespread acclaim for its messenger bag styling and design acumen and the newly reengineered CorePack FLY edition expands upon that tradition by making it one of the most TSA/airport checkpoint friendly notebook bags on the market. Adhering to the strict standards set by the TSA, the hinged design enables the bag to butterfly open to allow the storage and notebook compartments to separate and lay flat during screening. Think of the time savings of not having to remove your notebook during airport screening and the additional security of not exposing your laptop to potential damage or theft. Or, take advantage of the new zippered side access opening, especially useful for quick retrieval of your notebook without removing the bag from the overhead compartment on an airplane. Available in Speakeasy Grey Pinstripe and Restart GrayScale Pixel for $89.95 MSRP.

AftPack Notebook Backpack AftPack Notebook Backpack - Holds Up to 17" notebooks

The AftPack notebook backpack was designed to offer complete on-the-go storage and notebook protection that lets you bring it all along in style and comfort. Contoured, padded shoulder straps with tuck-away chest straps, extra-comfortable vented body padding, and the quick-access notebook compartment opening all help make AftPack your trusted got-your-back companion as you charge through your daily routine. Available in Speakeasy Grey and Restart GreyScale Pixel for $89.95 MSRP.

PortPack Notebook Shoulder Bag - Holds Up to 15" Notebooks

PortPack's clean, upright appearance gives you a tidy look and feeling no matter how jumbled up your day can be. Sling PortPack over your shoulder and stash your media player while using the headphone cord pass-through to keep up your neatness. Slyly remove the shoulder strap and untuck the carry handle for a crisp, clean carry-along look. Even sneak in a water bottle when no one's looking. Available in Speakeasy Grey Pinstripe, Restart GreyScale Pixel and Velocity Plum Stripe for $69.95 MSRP.

TuckPack Notebook Carrying SleeveTuckPack Notebook Carrying Sleeve - Holds up to 13" Notebooks and Netbooks

Lightweight and simple, the TuckPack features a plush, micro-fleece padded notebook compartment and is the perfect way to carry and protect your notebook when size matters, yet small enough to be slipped into a larger backpack, bag or briefcase. Wear your notebook conveniently at your side or remove the included shoulder strap and tuck under your arm or carry in hand. Available in Speakeasy Grey Pinstripe, Restart GreyScale Pixel and Velocity Plum Stripe for $39.95 MSRP. TuckPack product information and images:

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.

Apple Store

Factory refurbished units with Apple's full one-year warranty.

  • 1.6 GHz MacBook Air, 2 GB/120 HD, $1,099
  • 1.8 GHz MacBook Air, 2 GB/80 HD, $1,099
  • 1.8 GHz MacBook Air, 2 GB/64 GB SSD, $1,199
  • 1.86 GHz MacBook Air, 2 GB/128 GB SSD, $1,249
  • 1.86 GHz MacBook Air, 2 GB/120 GB HD, $1,349
  • 2.13 GHz MacBook Air, 2 GB/120 GB HD, $1,549
  • 2.13 GHz MacBook White, 2 GB/160/SD, $849
  • 2.4 GHz Core 2 MacBook, white, 2 GB/160 GB HD/SD, $899
  • 2.0 GHz Unibody MacBook, 2 GB/160/SD, $899
  • 2.4 GHz Unibody MacBook, 2 GB/250/SD, $999
  • 2.4 GHz Unibody MacBook, 2 GB/128 GB SSD/SD, $1,299
  • 13" 2.26 GHz Unibody MacBook Pro, 2 GB/160/SD, $999
  • 13" 2.53 GHz Unibody MacBook Pro, 4 GB/250/SD, $1,299
  • 15" 2.53 GHz Unibody MacBook Pro, 4 GB/320/SD, $1,449
  • 15" 2.53 GHz Unibody MacBook Pro, 4 GB/128 SSD/SD, $1,599
  • 15" 2.66 GHz Unibody MacBook Pro, 4 GB/320/SD, $1,599
  • 15" 2.93 GHz Unibody MacBook Pro, 4 GB/320/SD, $1,949
  • 17" 2.66 GHz Unibody MacBook Pro, 4 GB/320/SD, $1,949
  • 17" 2.66 GHz Unibody MacBook Pro, 4 GB/320/SD, antiglare, $1,999

MacMall

  • 1.86 GHz MacBook Air, 2 GB/120, $1,394
  • 2.13 GHz MacBook Air, 2 GB/128 SSD, $1,694 after rebate
  • 2.13 GHz Core 2 MacBook White, 2 GB/16/SD, $929 after rebate
  • 13" 2.26 GHz MacBook Pro, 2 GB/160/SD, $1,114.00 after rebate
  • 15" 2.53 GHz June 09 MacBook Pro, 4 GB/250/SD, $1,594 after rebate
  • 17" 2.8 GHz MacBook Pro, 4 GB/500/SD, $2,294 after rebate

Mac Connection

  • 2.0 GHz Unibody MacBook, 2 GB/160/SD, $899.99 after rebate

TechRestore

  • 2.0 GHz Core 2 MacBook, white, 1 GB/80/SD, $619.99
  • 2.16 GHz Core 2 MacBook, white, 1 GB/120/SD, $719.99
  • 2.16 GHz Core 2 MacBook, white, 1 GB/80/SD, $729.99
  • 15" 1.83 GHz Core Duo MacBook Pro, 1 GB/80/SD, $779.99
  • 15" 2.0 GHz Core Duo MacBook Pro, 1 GB/80/SD, $799.99
  • 15" 2.16 GHz Core 2 MacBook Pro, 1 GB/200/SD, $899.99
  • 15" 2.33 GHz Core 2 MacBook Pro, 1 GB/120/SD, $949.99
  • 17" 2.33 GHz Core 2 MacBook Pro, 1 GB/120/SD, APX, $1,269
  • 17" 2.4 GHz Core 2 MacBook Pro, 1 GB/160/SD, $1,399

ExperCom

  • 2.16 GHz MacBook White, 1 GB/100/SD, $749
  • 15" 1.83 GHz MacBook Pro, 2 GB/80/SD, $849

BetaMacs - G3 PowerBooks - G4 iBooks

  • Lombard PowerBook G3/400, 256/6/DVD, OS 9, $179
  • Pismo PowerBook G3/400, 512/10/no optical drive?, AP, $299
  • 12" iBook G4/1.33 GHz, 768/40/Combo, AP, OS X 10.6, $299

Wegener Media - Clamshell iBooks - MacBook - 15" MacBook Pro - 17" MacBook Pro

  • Clamshell iBook G3/300, 96/6/CD, blueberry or tangerine, $179.99
  • 1.83 GHz Core Duo MacBook, white, 512/60/Combo, $499.99
  • 2.0 GHz Core Duo MacBook, white, 512/60/Combo, $549.99
  • 2.0 GHz Core 2 MacBook, white Core2 Duo, 1 GB/80/SD, $599.99
  • 15" 1.83 GHz Core Duo MacBook Pro, 512/80/SD, $599.99
  • 15" 2.0 GHz Core Duo MacBook Pro, 512/100/SD, $639.99
  • 15" 2.0 GHz Core Duo MacBook Pro, 512/80/SD, $629.99
  • 15" 2.0 GHz Core Duo MacBook Pro, 1 GB/80/SD, $634.99
  • 15" 2.16 GHz Core Duo MacBook Pro, 1 GB/100/SD, $669.99
  • 15" 2.16 GHz Core Duo MacBook Pro, 1 GB/120/SD, $694.99
  • 15" 2.2 GHz Core 2 MacBook Pro, 1 GB/120/SD, $849.99
  • 15" 2.2 GHz Core 2 MacBook Pro, 4 GB/120/SD, $939.99
  • 17" 2.4 GHz Core 2 MacBook Pro, 4 GB/160/SD, $1,169

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.

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