Compiled by Charles Moore
and edited by
Dan Knight
- 2002.03.22
Except as noted, prices are in US dollars.
WildEepz for TiBook Screen Closure
Cushions
Radiologic Technologies offers
WildEepz replacement screen closure cushions made from a
rubber polymer. The cushions are .04" thick, but will compress to
approximately .03" and are claimed to offer much better protection
and rigidity compared to the ineffective, fragile original cushions
Apple uses.
The Radiologic cushions attach via an adhesive backing and can
be removed at any time with no damage to the titanium surface. The
cushions eliminate the free play in the display when closed, help
protect the display from contacting the main chassis, add
significant rigidity to the PowerBook when closed, and help
eliminate the unintentional opening if the latch button is slightly
pressed, such as when carrying the unit.
"WildEepz" cushions sell for $10.
Sonnet Announces New 466 MHz Processor Upgrade
for PowerBook 1400
Sonnet Technologies has released the
Crescendo/PB G3 466-1M, Sonnet's fastest upgrade yet for
the PowerBook 1400, and the latest addition to its product line of
Crescendo processor upgrade cards. This upgrade offers a powerful
466 MHz PowerPC G3 processor with 1 MB Level 2 backside cache,
which produces an impressive 11x increase in performance over a
stock 117 MHz machine. The Crescendo/PB is compatible with the
PowerBook's existing hardware, software, RAM, and peripherals. It
transparently integrates with your system software, and performs
flawlessly with Mac OS 7.5.3, through OS 9.1.
Crescendo/PB G3 466-1M is shipping now and has an estimated
street price of $299.95. This new product replaces the Crescendo/PB
G3 400-1M at the same price.
PowerBook Cases from the Mothership
The Apple Store offers a wide selection of laptop
cases and backpacks by companies like Brenthaven and Incase. Go to the Apple
Store site and click on the Laptop Gear link.
Some examples include:
Mobility 1 iBook Messenger Bag
Featuring a custom fit iBook protective sleeve, iBook specific
accessory pockets, the Mobility 1 is amazingly light - only 1.6
lbs. - and is the innovative and functional complement to the new
12" iBook.
Manufactured exclusively for Apple by Brenthaven, the Mobility 1
is designed around the new 12" iBook and features the same care and exquisite craftsmanship that has earned
Brenthaven the reputation as the industry leader in carrying case
technology.
The main case compartment houses the iBook protection sleeve and
two hardware accessory pockets conveniently sized to fit the iBook
power cord, disk shaped AC adapter, as well as a spare iBook
battery. The case is topped off with Brenthaven's easy-grip handle
and adjustable shoulder strap that is designed to ride comfortably
on a shoulder.
Constructed of high performance Cordura nylon fabric, the
Mobility 1's front flap-over design is extremely rugged and
lightweight (only 1.6 lbs.). The case features a compact organizer
section for stationary items, a zippered organizer pocket, a PDA
pocket and side quick-access pockets to provide storage for cell
phones, sunglasses, etc. Also featured is a handy key holder and a
convenient bungee cord carry-strap for universal carrying
needs.
Specifications:
- Front flap, 1 compartment design
- iBook protection sleeve
- 2 computer hardware pockets, 1 PDA pocket, 2 quick access
pockets, 1 zippered mini-pocket, 1 magazine slip pocket
- Bungee cord carry-strap & quick access key holder
- Compact organizer panel
- EasyGrip handle, fully adjustable shoulder strap
- Lifetime guarantee
- Color: blue/black combination
- Case dimensions: 4" x 10-1/4" x 13-1/2"
- Case weight: 1.6 lbs..
Price: $79.95
Brenthaven Mobility 2 Top Loading Case
The sleek and sophisticated Mobility 2 by Brenthaven is
manufactured exclusively for Apple for the 12" iBook. This case
features a custom fit iBook protective sleeve, iBook accessory
pockets and all the little details to make this the perfect
compliment for your new laptop.
Manufactured exclusively for Apple by Brenthaven, the Mobility 2
is designed specifically for the 12" iBook and features the same
care and exquisite craftsmanship that has earned Brenthaven the
reputation as the industry leader in carrying case technology.
The Mobility 2 is a two compartment, top loading computer case
constructed of a combination of high performance Cordura and Antron
nylon. This stylish and streamline design is extremely rugged,
weighs only 2.2 lbs. and features the Brenthaven dual spring-rod
handle system as well as a padded contoured shaped shoulder strap
for the ultimate in ergonomic comfort.
The main compartment contains the custom-fit iBook protection
sleeve as well as storage space for files. The second compartment
provides the ultimate in organization, storage and accessibility.
This compartment features an organizer panel, a PDA pocket,
multiple media pockets for DVDs and Zip disks as well as custom
pockets to carry the iBook spare battery and disk shaped AC adapter
and cables. Also featured in the case are an external magazine slip
pocket, a handy key holder as well as a convenient side-mounted
cell phone pocket for quick and easy access.
Specifications:
- Top loading, 2 compartment design: one for the computer and
files; the other with an organizer panel and multiple storage
pockets
- iBook protection sleeve
- 2 hardware accessory pockets, 2 DVD pockets, 1 spare iBook
battery pocket, 2 media/additional hardware pockets, 2 cord/cable
pockets, 1 AC adapter pocket, 1 magazine slip pocket
- Side-mounted cell phone pocket
- Quick access key holder
- Wheelie strap for attaching to wheeled luggage
- Exclusive Brenthaven dual spring-rod, non-slip handle
system
- Fully padded, contour shaped 1.5" molded shoulder strap
- Lifetime guarantee
- Color: black
- Case dimensions: 6" x 11-1/2" x 12-3/4"
- Case weight: 2.2 lbs.
Price: $99
Incase Laptop Sleeve for G4
Image Incase's New Laptop Sleeve for the Apple PowerBook G4
offers a new level of performance and 
versatility. The Sleeve works by adding laptop protection
to your favorite larger bag or works as a stand alone just as
gracefully. It's designed to be sleek and slender to complement the
G4's sparkling clean looks and carries well with the shoulder strap
or new retractable handles that tuck away when not in use. Incase
also added a neoprene pocket so you can carry your power supply but
discreetly hide the bulge. Sized to fit the PowerBook G4 and
available only in Dark Graphite.
Price: $39.95
Amazon Offers $100 off on Laptops (including
iBooks and PowerBooks)
Amazon.com is discounting new laptop computers by
$100, in addition to their free Super Saver Shipping program, until
March 29, 2002
For Apple portable models offered,
click here.
ThinkFree Office Now Available on CD-ROM
If you've been following the thread of discussion on Low End Mac initiated by my article about living Microsoft-free,
you might be interested to learn that ThinkFree Corporation
announced that its MS Office alternative, ThinkFree Office, is now
available at retail stores as a shrink-wrapped CD-ROM offering,
which runs on both PCs and Macs.
ThinkFree Office is a suite of productivity applications,
including a word processor, spreadsheet, and presentation graphics
program, that seamlessly reads and writes Microsoft Office file
formats. The retail version of ThinkFree Office includes a
non-expiring software license, CD-ROM media that installs in
minutes, and a printed user's guide.
The retail version also includes a registration serial number,
which can be redeemed for a one-year subscription to ThinkFree's
Internet services.
These services provide customers with:
- A personal Cyberdrive, a secure Internet file storage system
hosted by ThinkFree servers
- The ability to download any software updates which are
available on the ThinkFree website
- The ability to download and install ThinkFree Office from
ThinkFree's Web site, as needed, to any supported computing
platform anywhere, anytime
- Email customer support
"The retail version of ThinkFree Office represents a marriage
between today's desktop-centric computing paradigm and our vision
for the future - one that enables anywhere, anytime, any platform
computing," said Robert Wise, CEO for ThinkFree. "ThinkFree Office
addresses the needs of an extremely diverse market spectrum, from
increasingly mobile corporate users who demand ubiquitous access to
both their data and applications to small office or home users who
are more concerned with price, compatibility, and ease of use.
ThinkFree Office offers a compelling benefit to technology early
adopters and the more conservative mass market users alike."
ThinkFree Office has previously only been available directly
from ThinkFree's website on a subscription basis as a hosted
service or Server-based version that is installed and deployed
within an organization's own network. ThinkFree Office
includes:
- Write, a Microsoft Word
compatible word processor/HTML
editor
- Calc, a Microsoft Excel compatible spreadsheet application
- Show, a Microsoft PowerPoint compatible presentation graphics
application
- Folders, a file manager for navigating and managing documents
seamlessly on your local drive and on your ThinkFree
Cyberdrive
Consumers will be able to purchase ThinkFree Office at retail
outlets nationwide for an estimated street price of $49.95 (that's
a lot cheaper than Office). Current retailers include CompUSA,
Micro Center, Fry's Electronics, and J&R
Music and Computer World.
Sony to Offer 16.1" Notebook Display
According to News.com, Sony is
releasing a new Vaio GRX notebook at $2,499 with a 16.1" display,
providing about the same viewing area as a 17" CRT monitor.
Apple's PowerBook G4 has a 15.2" wide screen format display, and
Gateway offers a 15.7" display on its Solo 9550 notebook.
Sony's top-of-the-line GRX590, priced at $2,999, features a 1.7
GHz Pentium 4-M with the 16.1" screen, and includes a 40 GB hard
drive.
Dell Debuts $949 Notebook Computer
Dell has announced a new notebook priced at $949.
The SmartStep 100N is targeted at first-time notebook buyers and
repeat customers who want a second computer system for their home.
That's one of the iBook's target markets, and the SmartStep is $250
less.
The SmartStep 100N features a 14.1" XGA display, Intel Celeron
1.06 GHz processor, 128 MB RAM, 20 GB hard drive, internal 24X
CD-ROM, and internal modem, Windows XP Home Edition operating
system with Works Suite 2002, Music Match software for listening to
digital music and Dell Picture Studio for processing and sharing
digital photos, six months of America Online or DellNet by MSN
membership (new members only).
SmartStep 100N is covered by a 90-day limited warranty, but
customers can upgrade to a one-year limited warranty for an extra
$50.
Location X 1.0.4 Full Featured Location
Manager
Location X brings Location Manager functionality from Mac
OS 9 to Mac OS X. Location X allows you to change
network, time zone, email settings and more all at once with a
single click.
Macintosh portable users who travel between different locations
often have to reconfigure their Macs for use at home, school, the
office, the hotel, the east coast office, China (you get the
picture). Configuring Location X to do this for you is easy using
its intuitive and elegant Aqua interface. Now using your laptop in
different places is a snap.
Location X was designed to allow third parties to develop
plug-ins that will allow you to change even more settings than
those provided in the Location X package. We will soon be
publishing this interface to allow developers to enhance and extend
Location X. In the mean time, you can use Location X's built in
plugins that let you change your network configuration, Apple Mail
settings, time zone, and QuickTime connection speed. Check back
frequently for new plug-ins!
New in this version:
- Fixes problems that may have prevented Mail or QuickTime
plug-ins from working
- Includes Default Printer and AppleScript plug-ins
System requirements: Mac OS X 10.1.3
Location X is $10.00 shareware.
MacVCD X Version 4.0 Released
Want to watch VCD movies on your PowerBook or iBook running
OS X?
Mireth Technology has released version 4.0 of MacVCD X for
Mac OS X. This is the first release of their VCD player that
supports the native Video CD format on Mac OS X. You can now
insert a VCD in the CD-ROM drive of your Macintosh running Mac
OS X and watch the movie.
MacVCD X is an easy-to-use, full screen, full featured Video CD
Player for the Macintosh. VCD movies are frequently stored in
multiple files (called tracks) and, because of CD storage size
limitations, are often stored on more than one disk. MacVCD X
recognizes the VCD format, finds, loads, and plays the movie for
you, automatically chaining the tracks together and ejecting the
disk when it's done. Sit back and enjoy the movie on full screen,
or even on your TV, with no interruptions except to insert the next
disk.
MacVCD X also comes with several control options. Use the menu
bar and the movie controller on the top and bottom of the screen,
or maximize screen size by hiding the menu bar and movie controller
and use the keyboard equivalents instead. You can also use the
Hands Free™ speech activated controls with a stereo headset
to control the movie. That's the easy way to play.
MacVCD X features:
- Full screen display, even on large monitors
- Automatic VCD format recognition and file chaining
- Auto Play and Auto Eject options
- Easy to use standard Macintosh Interface with both Movie
Controller and Keyboard control
- Track selection
- Support for both multi-language and karaoke soundtracks
- Hands Free™ speech activated control
- Playback on a second display (like a TV)
- Advanced movie controls including slow motion, fast motion and
backwards playback
MacVCD X for Mac OS X costs $19.95 and can be ordered from
Mireth's Web site. You can download a copy (free demo included)
from <
http://www.mireth.com/pub/download.html>.
System Requirements:
- Macintosh PowerPC G3
- Mac OS X 10.1
- QuickTime 5 or later
Bargain 'Books
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.
- PowerBook G4/667, 512/30
GB/Combo/Airport, new with free Ogio Jack Pack Messenger Bag in
graphite, $2,999
- iBook G3/500, 128/15 GB/CD-ROM,
refurbished, $1,089
- iBook G3/600, 128/15
GB/DVD/12.1", factory refurbished, $1,179.99
- iBook 500, 128/15
GB/CD-ROM/VGA-out/56K/12.1", new, $1,199
- PowerBook G4/550,
256/20G/DVD/56K, refurbished, $1,799
- PowerBook G4/550,
256/20G/Combo/56K, refurbished, $1,999
- PowerBook G4/667,
512/30G/DVD/AirPort/56K, refurbished, $2,499
- PowerBook G4/667,
512/30G/Combo/AirPort/56K, refurbished, $2,699
- iBook 500, 64 MB/10
GB/CD-ROM/56K, refurbished, $899
- iBook 500, 128 MB/15 GB/CD/56K,
refurbished, $1,099
- iBook 600, 128 MB/15
GB/DVD/56K, refurbished, $1,249
- iBook 600, 128 MB/20
GB/Combo/56K, refurbished, $1,349
- iBook 600, 256 MB/20
GB/Combo/14", refurbished, $1,599
And for our Canadian readers (all prices cited below
are in Canadian dollars):
- PowerBook WallStreet G3/300,
14.1" screen, 64/8 GB/CD, 30 day warranty, used, $1,299.99
- iBook 300, 160/3 GB/CD/56k, 30
day warranty, used, $1,099.99
- PowerBook WallStreet G3/266,
14.1" screen, 128/4 GB/CD, 30 day warranty, used, $1,199.99
- PowerBook Lombard G3/333,
128/4 GB/CD/14.1"/56k, $1,399.99
- PowerBook G3/400, 128/6 GB/DVD/56k/14", $1,899
- PowerBook G3/400, 96/6 GB/DVD/56k/14", $1,879
- PowerBook Lombard G3/333,
128/4 GB/CD/14", $1,699
- PowerBook WallStreet G3/292,
128/8 GB/CD/56k/14", $1,499
- PowerBook WallStreet G3/233, 96/2 GB/CD/13", $1,199
- PowerBook WallStreet G3/233, 64/2 GB/CD/13", $1,149
- PowerBook G3 250 (orig), 96/3
GB/CD/Floppy/13", $1,099
- PowerBook 3400/240, 64/4
GB/floppy/CD/33.6k, $949
Plus a selection of older PowerBooks.
