This Week's MacBook, PowerBook, and iBook News
All prices are in US dollars unless otherwise noted.
General Apple and Mac desktop news is covered in The Mac News Review. iPod, iPhone, and Apple
TV news is covered in The iNews
Review.
News & Opinion
Products
News & Opinion
Go for the Gold (MacBook Pro)
pocket-lint.co.uk's Amy-Mae Elliott says:
"We've seen seriously blinged up creations from the iPod range,
so why not go whole hog and get a Midas-touched MacBook Pro?
"These pics are preview images for the forthcoming gold and diamonds
MacBook Pro from the Computer Choppers team.
"The diamond encrusted Apple logo is designed to let the light shine
through. Prices on application."
Link:
Apple MacBook Pro Gets Midas Treatment
TechRestore Partners with FedEx: 2000+ Local Pickup
Locations
PR: TechRestore, Inc. Announces Partnership with FedEx to
offer 2000+ Local Pickup Locations for their Overnight Repair Service
for Laptops, iPod, iPhone, PSP and Data Recovery.
TechRestore, Inc. & FedEx announced a partnership today that
will provide TechRestore customers with over 2000 local drop-off
centers at FedEx Kinkos locations throughout the United States.
TechRestore customers simply schedule their repairs online at
techrestore.com
or via phone at 1-888-572-7372 and select the FedEx
Local Drop-off option. Both TechRestore and FedEx are alerted and the
customer can then take their repair to any FedEx Kinkos or regular
FedEx shipping location for drop off. Once service is scheduled,
TechRestore provides the customer with the locations of the three
drop-off centers closest to the customer. In addition to being
convenient, the new Local Drop-off service allows the customer to have
their product picked up the same day they schedule their repair, rather
than waiting an additional day to receive a pickup box.
"When it comes to fast and easy shipping, FedEx delivers exactly
what TechRestore customers need," said David Kevern, FedEx Vice
President of Worldwide Services. "From convenient drop-off at any FedEx
Authorized Return Center nationwide, to door-to-door pickup, the
combination of TechRestore repair and FedEx logistics offers the
fastest, most reliable service available."
With the new partnership, TechRestore customers can choose from
FedEx Overnight Door-to-Door Pickup, FedEx Local Drop-off or Self-Ship
options to get their device to TechRestore for service.
"We're thrilled to be partnering with FedEx to offer our customers
the most convenient and reliable overnight shipping options for their
repair services," said Shannon Jean, Founder and President of
TechRestore. "Look for more innovative services in the future as
TechRestore and FedEx work together to bring the most recommended
repair service together with the most trusted name in shipping."
Link: TechRestore
Products
Seagate's 250GB 5400 rpm Notebook Drive
I have a 100 GB Seagate drive in one of my Pismo PowerBooks, but the hard drive in my main
production computer is just 80 GB and is nowhere near full after 18
months of use; 250 GB sounds like an awesome amount of storage
capacity. The Seagate drive that I have is also admirably quiet and
even less full. cm
PR: Responding to expanding demand for desktop and notebook
PCs that deliver the highest levels of storage capacity with
state-of-the-art security, Seagate Technology has announced a 1
terabyte (TB) desktop hard drive that uses government-grade encryption
to prevent desktop PC information from falling into the wrong hands, as
well as a new 250GB 2.5" notebook hard drive.
Momentus 5400.4 - Delivering high capacity and throughput for
laptop computing
As explosive growth of laptop PCs continues, more users want all the
capabilities of a desktop PC, including high capacity, great
performance and strong shock resistance for the power of desktop
computing on-the-go. The Momentus 5400.4 hard drive, the industry's
only second-generation notebook drive to use capacity-boosting
perpendicular magnetic recording (PMR) technology, combines up to 250GB
of capacity with a super-speedy Serial ATA 3.0 Gbit/second
interface.
This 2.5", 5400-rpm little giant delivers 250GB of capacity on just
two platters and is tough to the core. Seagate's newest notebook drive
packs industry-leading operating and non-operating shock resistance of
325 Gs and 900 Gs, respectively, making it ideal for systems that are
subject to rough handling or high levels of vibration. The entire
series of Momentus hard drives is lean on power consumption, allowing
notebook users to work longer between battery charges, and are
virtually inaudible thanks to Seagate's innovative SoftSonic
fluid-dynamic bearing motors and QuietStep ramp load technology.
Momentus 5400.4 is designed for a wide range of systems including
mainstream notebook PCs, workstations, external storage enclosures and
small form factor desktop PCs.
Momentus 5400.4 is expected to ship to system builders and original
equipment manufacturers in the fourth quarter of calendar 2007, and
Barracuda FDE is on track to ship in 2008. The drives exemplify
Seagate's continuing leadership in delivering cutting-edge storage
technologies that are core to the explosive growth of digital
information worldwide.
Link: Seagate
Hawking 108G CardBus WIFI Card Supports OS X
10.1-10.4
PR: Hawking Technologies' HWC54DA Wireless-G Laptop Card
features the latest in wireless technology. Standard wireless cardbus
cards use low power antennas that deliver a circular signal pattern.
This type of pattern recieves interference from the metal components
within the laptop resulting in a drop in wireless performance and
distance. The HWC54DA solves this problem with its advanced directional
6 dBi Hi-Gain Antenna that delivers a strong concentrated signal in the
direction of the wireless access point to establish a strong wireless
link resulting in a significant increase in operating distance (Up to
200%). The Hi-Gain antenna position swivels and folds to make finding
an optimal signal easy and simple. When you are not using the card,
simply fold the antenna down for compact, safe, easy transport.
The
Wireless-G Cardbus Card is packed with features, including support for
true plug and play (hot swappable), high level security (WPA and WEP
Encryption), and low power consumption to preserve your laptop's
battery life. The HWC54DA uses the latest wireless standard for the
fastest connection speeds (Up to 108Mbps when paired with the Hawking
HWRGM1A Hi-Gain MIMO Router for Mac Users). It is also backwards
compatible with 802.11g and legacy wireless 802.11b products.
Transferring data, audio and even video files wirelessly will be easy
and fast. Configuration and installation is simplified to get your
wireless network up and running in a matter of minutes.
Features
- Go Wireless With your Laptop
- Hi-Gain Directional Antenna diverts Interference from Metal
Componenets within the Laptop
- Hi-Gain Antenna Rotates and Swivels to help find the best
Signal
- Up to 200% Increase in Wireless Distance and Performance when
compared to Standard Wireless Cards
- Up to 108Mbps data speeds
- 2 Year Warranty
- Free Technical Support
This wireless PCMCIA card works with laptops that run Windows 98SE,
ME, 2000, and XP, and is also compatible with Macintosh operating
systems 10.0 through 10.4.
This card lists for $99.95, but is available from online resellers
for as little as $75.99.
Link:
Hi-Gain Wireless-108G Laptop Card
Logitech Notebook Speakers Deliver Exceptional
Audio in a Breakthrough, Compact Design
PR: Logitech has announced the Logitech AudioHub Notebook
Speaker System with Integrated USB Hub - delivering exceptional audio
in a breakthrough design. The AudioHub combines a unique 2.1 one-piece
speaker system and three integrated Hi-Speed USB ports in a compact
design that fits neatly behind most notebooks.
"Today, a broad range of people - not just traditional
road warriors - are using their notebooks as their primary home
computer and digital music platform," said Tim Leehane, director of
product marketing for Logitech's audio business. "As this trend grows,
people are adding peripherals - for example, webcams and wireless mice
- to their notebook stations. The Logitech AudioHub provides an
elegant, one-stop notebook solution that allows people to manage their
peripherals and enhance their listening experience."
Offering notebook users exceptional digital audio, the AudioHub
speaker system features an adjustable one-piece, three-chamber speaker
system with an integrated subwoofer that creates balanced audio with
clear highs and solid lows. And a useful Mute button turns off the
sound without cutting power to the integrated USB hub.
To help people manage their peripherals, the AudioHub offers three
built-in Hi-Speed USB ports. And when people want to take their
notebooks with them, the AudioHub makes it easy to disconnect their
setup by simply unplugging the USB cord attached to the computer.
On the base of the AudioHub, a convenient cable management system
allows people to easily pass cables from their devices to a USB port.
Along the back of the AudioHub, a cable hook efficiently manages cable
clutter.
At just three and a half inches in height, the AudioHub presents a
sleek, low-profile design that fits almost anywhere in the home - even
in the living room. And the AudioHub speaker system's unique
adjustable-width speakers effectively position the satellites around
most notebooks.
The Logitech AudioHub notebook speaker system is expected to be
available in the US and Europe beginning in October, for a suggested
retail price in the US for $99.99.
Link: Logitech
KeyRemap4MacBook
KeyRemap4MacBook is a keyboard remapper for Mac OS X. You can change
a keyboard-layout like enter2command, return2option,
shift2escape...
Very small & concise source code written with C++. Use it as
codebase of your original keyremapper.
Don't use this with other key remapper ( DoubleCommand , Tesla ,
...)
Uninstall these softwares before install KeyRemap4MacBook.
New in version 1.4:
- Added "remap.drop_funcshift". This invalidates the keys
"Shift+F1"-"Shift+F12". And prevents an accidental discharge of "slow
Expose".
System requirements: Mac OS X 10.4 or later, MacBook
System Support: PPC/Intel
Free
Link: KeyRemap4MacBook
Give Your MacBook Pro a Mobile Home to Be Proud
of
PR:
Be.ez has announced the new 17" custom fit LEVertigo - a custom fit
notebook bag for the MacBook Pro. Be-ez adds to it's LEvertigo family
and expanding range of brilliant designed and well-made satchels with a
custom made over the shoulder transporter bag.
The 17" MacBook Pro custom fit LEvertigo is a notebook bag that
allows you to transport your laptop as well as documents and
accessories in comfort and style. The Vertical design allows you to
have the bag close to your body at all times, and with complete all
round protection with velcro-secured padded flap you are left with a
protective and secure computer transporter bag.
This Christmas give your notebook a new home with the Be-ez 17'"
custom fit LEvertigo.
Link: Be.ez
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.
A considerably diminished selection of refurbs. at the Apple Store
this week; just a couple of 15" MacBook Pros, a 17-incher, and the most
expensive MacBook model. cm
- refurb 2.16 GHz Core 2 MacBook, black, 1 GB/160/SD, $1,299
- refurb 15" 2.2 GHz Core 2 MacBook Pro, 2 GB/120/SD, $1,699
- refurb 15" 2.4 GHz Core 2 MacBook Pro, 2 GB/160/SD, $2,199
- refurb 17" 2.33 GHz Core 2 MacBook Pro, 2 GB/160/SD, $2,199
TechRestore is offering a $25 discount to 'Book
Review readers off any PowerBook or iBook in stock. Just enter the code
CWM during checkout when ordering online. The coupon code is valid from
now through 2007.12.31.
- 12" iBook G3/600, 256/20/CD, $349.99 less $25 = $324.99
- 12" iBook G3/700, 256/20/Combo, $419.99 less $25 = $394.99
- iBook G3/900 256MB Memory, 40GB Drive, CD-RW-DVD Optical Drive,
12-inch LCD Screen - $429.99
- 12" PowerBook G4/867, 256/40/SD, $549.99 less $25 = $524.99
- 12" PowerBook G4/1.5 GHz, 256/80/SD, $849.99 less $25 =
$824.99
- 14" iBook G4/933, 256/60/Combo, $679.99 less $25 = $654.99
- 15" PowerBook G4/800, 256/40/Combo, $649.99 less $25 = $624.99
- 12" iBook G3/700, 256/20/Combo, $299
- 12" iBook G3/600, 256/15/CD, $219
- 12" iBook G3/700, 256/20/Combo, $299
- 12" iBook G4/1.2 GHz, 512/30/Combo, AP, $515
- 15" PowerBook G4/867, 512/40/SD, scratches/wear, $520
- 15" PowerBook G4/867, 512/40/SD, $555
- Add AirPort for $70
- 12" PowerBook
G4/867 MHz, 256/40/Combo, $589.99
- 15" aluminum PowerBook G4/1 GHz, 256/60/Combo, $669.99
- 15" PowerBook G4/1.25 GHz, 256/60/Combo, $729.99
- 15" PowerBook G4/1.33 GHz, 256/60/Combo, $769.99
- 15" PowerBook G4/1.5 GHz, 256/80/Combo, $849.99
- 15" PowerBook G4/1.67 GHz, 512/80/Combo, $929.99
- 15" PowerBook G4/1.67 GHz hi-res, 512/80/Combo, $1,079.99
Free shipping and $50 rebate on Power Max MP3
Sunglasses with the purchase of any new, used, or refurbished Mac.
- open box 1.83 GHz Core 2 MacBook, white, 512/60/Combo, warranty
started, $949
- open box 2.0 GHz Core 2 MacBook, white, 1 GB/80/SD, $1,029
- 2.0 GHz Core 2 MacBook, white, 1 GB/80/SD, $1,149
- 2.0 GHz Core 2 MacBook, black, 1 GB/120/SD, $1,199
- open box 2.0 GHz Core 2 MacBook, black, 1 GB/120/SD, $1,249
- open box 2.16 GHz Core 2 MacBook, white, 1 GB/120/SD, $1,249
- open box 2.16 GHz Core 2 MacBook, black, 1 GB/160/SD, $1,449
- open box 15" 2.16 GHz Core 2 MacBook Pro, 1 GB/120/SD, $1,699
- 15" 2.33 GHz Core 2 MacBook Pro, 2 GB/120/SD, $2,199
- 17" 2.33 GHz Core 2 MacBook Pro, 2 GB/160/SD, warranty started,
$2,599
- 17" 2.33 GHz Core 2 MacBook Pro, 2 GB/160/SD, $2,688
- used 12" iBook G4/1GHz, 512/30/Combo, $479
- used 14" iBook G4/933MHz, 128/40/Combo, APX, $499
- used 15" PowerBook G4/1GHz, 512/40/SD, APX, 1 USB port, $499
- open box 15" 2.33GHz MacBook Pro, 2 GB/120/SD, $1,999
- open box 17" 2.4GHz MacBook Pro, 2 GB/160/SD, $2,599
- 12" clamshell iBook G3/300, blueberry, 64/3/CD, $129.95
- 12" clamshell iBook G3/300, tangerine, 64/3/CD, $149.95
- 12" clamshell iBook G3/366, Key lime, 128/10/CD, $279.95
- 12" iBook G3/500, 128/10/CD, $199.95
- 12" iBook G3/500, 256/20/CD-RW, $259.95
- 12" iBook G3/600, 128/20/CD, $239.95
- 12" iBook G3/600, 256/15/DVD, $279.95
- 12" iBook G3/700, 256/20/Combo, $349.95
- 12" iBook G3/800, 256/30/Combo, $369.95
- 12" iBook G4/1 GHz, 512/30/Combo, APX, $549.95
- 15" PowerBook G4/1.5 GHz, 512/80/SD, APX, BT, $999.95
For more deals on current or recently discontinued models, see our
MacBook deals, 15" MacBook Pro deals, 17" MacBook Pro deals, 12" PowerBook G4 deals, 15" and 17" PowerBook G4 deals, titanium PowerBook G4 deals, iBook G4 deals, PowerBook G3 deals, and iBook G3 deals.
