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The 'Book Review

iBook Video Out, OS 9 for Jaguar, BetterTrackpad Driver, Lombard Rage Patch for 10.2, and More

Charles W Moore - 2002.08.30

Info on iBook video port, OS 9 for Classic Mode in Jaguar, BetterTrackpad driver, RageLTPro patch for Lombards running OS X 10.2, and more.

Except as noted, prices are in US dollars.

The iBook’s Video-Out Port

12" Dual USB iBook G3Apple has posted a Knowledge Base article containing compatibility information for the video-out port on the dual-USB iBook.

Products covered:

The iBook computer has a video (standard red/green/blue video) output port that allows you to connect an RGB video monitor to the computer. The computer detects when a monitor is plugged in and sets up the monitor accordingly.

You use the VGA Adapter included with your iBook computer to connect an external monitor to the computer’s video-out port.

OS 9 Fulfillment Program for Jaguar

OS 9 is not dead yet. On Apple’s OS X upgrade page, there’s a link to a “Mac OS 9.2 Fulfillment Program”.

“Still don’t have Mac OS 9 to run your Mac OS 9-compatible applications? With the purchase of Mac OS X v10.2 ‘Jaguar’ retail product, you qualify to purchase Mac OS 9.2.1 for $19.95. Download the order form for details.”

BetterTrackpad 2.0.5d1 Alternate Trackpad Driver for 10.2

Developer notes:

Apple’s default trackpad driver drove me nuts with its strange and slow acceleration curve. After wearing a groove in my trackpad, I decided to download the Darwin source code for the driver and fix it. Try this and give me some feedback on its speed and acceleration curve. Further versions are forthcoming. Free

System requirements: Mac OS X 10.2

BetterTrackpad [no longer available] is free.

RageLTPro Patch for Lombards Running Mac OS X 10.2

James Denton says;

“With Mac OS X 10.2 the Lombard PowerBook owners find themselves in the same predicament as in 10.1.5: RagePro drivers exist for the Beige G3 but not for the Lombard or WallStreet. A hack was found in 10.1.5 that would enable the Lombard to have accelerated video, but at a cost: you could not switch video resolutions or color depth without having to restart.”Not much has changed in 10.2 it seems. Not only can you not switch resolutions or color depth without problems, preliminary tests show that after a restart the machine still has problems in Aqua, usually showing a grey background with the spinning cursor. The only way to recover is to start up in single user mode and replace the patched file with the unpatched file.

“If you’d like to download the new patch (Mac OS X 10.1.5 and 10.2 compatible) you can find a link here: <http://66.90.142.213/main/index.php>”

insTand Heavy Duty Laptop Stands and Accessories

CR1 insTand

instand

Originally developed for the court reporting profession and now available to the general public, the highly portable, yet extremely durable, CR1 insTand gets your hot computer off your lap andlets you sit comfortably and move around at will – on the road, in the office, at home. insTand provides a stable platform free from wobbling or vibration. The nonskid 9-5/8″ x 12″ tray-top connects instantly and securely to the fully adjustable tripod base, which extends from 14″ to 31″ and weighs just 22 oz. Features patented ergonomic tilt feature to adjust keyboard angle for comfort. Black anodized aircraft-quality aluminum and composites.

insTand features:

  • Model CR1 adjusts from 14″ to 31″ high.
  • Folds really small – like a small umbrella. Fits in most cases.
  • Sturdy enough to support your laptop comfortably.
  • Anodized aircraft-quality aluminum tripod folds to 2″ x 12-1/2″ and weighs just 22 oz.
  • Includes tripod, standard 9-5/8″ x 12″ tray and carry bag.
  • Adjustable tilt for comfort – patented device lets you tilt the keyboard to one of 4 positions while bringing the computer toward your lap for extra comfort.

All insTands include a sturdy tripod, a high-tech 9-5/8″ x 12″ tray (fits all laptops) and a leatherettecarry bag. The lightweight tripod folds small – like a folding umbrella. Its ultra-thin tray fits into computer case with computer and gives it full, stable support.

Every insTand carries a full one year warranty against manufacturer’s defects, in addition to our 30-day money-back satisfaction guarantee.

The CR1 insTand sells for $99.95.

CR3 insTand

instand

The CR3 insTand is a taller version that can be used while standing or sitting. A little longer than the regular insTandwhen folded, but only weighing 3 oz. more, the CR3 adjusts from 19″ to 41″ high. Anodized aluminum and composite tripod folds to 2″ x 18-1/2″ and weighs just 25 oz. stand or sit at will. The nonskid 9-5/8″ x 12″ tray-top connects instantly and securely to the fully adjustable tripod which extends from 19″ to 41″ and weighs just 26 oz. Features patented ergonomic tilt feature to adjust keyboard angle for comfort. Black anodized aircraft-quality aluminum and composites.

Features:

  • Model CR3 adjusts from 19″ to 41″ high.
  • Folds really small – like a small umbrella.
  • Fits diagonally in a briefcase.
  • Sturdy enough to support your laptop comfortably.
  • Anodized aircraft-quality aluminum tripod folds to 2″ x 18-1/2″ and weighs just 25 oz.
  • Includes tripod, standard 9-5/8″ x 12″ tray and carry bag.

The CR3 insTand sells for $119.95.

CR5 insTand

instand

When you are more concerned about strength, durability, and serious stability, and less concerned about light weightand high portability, the CR5 insTand is just the ticket. The CR5 is highly polished chrome plated steel. Much heavier than the regular insTand, it weighs in at 8 lbs. Strong and stable – use it outdoors, indoors, industrial settings, or hospitals. Use it at trade shows or in crowded places. Attractive enough to use on stage or in the courtroom.

The nonskid 9-5/8″ x 12″ tray-top connects instantly and securely to the fully adjustable tripod which extends from 28″ to 56″ high. Weighs 8 lbs. Includes a handy leatherette carry bag and 9-5/8″ x 11″ CT1 standard tray-top.

Features:

  • Beautiful polished-chrome finish.
  • Sturdy steel construction.
  • Extends to 54″ high
  • Folds to 3-1/2″ x 24″
  • Tripod weighs 8 lbs.
  • Includes standard 9-5/8″ x 12″ tray and leatherette carry bag
  • 30-day money-back satisfaction guarantee.
  • Makes a great projector stand – strong enough to hold a laptop plus a projector and more!

The CR5 insTand sells for $199.95.

Need more workspace? the sideKick tray holder lets you attach a 2nd tray to your insTand tripod. Perfect for papers, mouse, light tools, etc.

sideKick sells for $39.95.

CT3 jumboTray

Need a large work surface? The CT3 jumboTray is a double-size version of the insTand standard tray. Note: The jumboTray is not suitable for mouse use. To use a mouse, see the mouserTray or the sideKick tray-holder. Fits all insTand tripods and the sideKick.

Measures 12″ x 18″, includes SureGrip surface.

CT3 jumboTray sells for $34.95.

miniMouse is idealfor mobile computing

minimouse

Small enough to be mistaken for a lipstick, yet it is easy and comfortable to use. Optical technology means there are no moving parts, and it works on nearly any surface, including the palm rest of your laptop. We think its half the size of other so-called mini mice. Simple plug-n-play technology. No installation or drivers required. USB mouse includes adapter plug for PS2.

USB mouse sells for $49.95

beanbagTable

beanbagtable

The beanbagTable is ideal for lounging on the sofa, in bed, in your recliner. Includes built-in wrist rest.

The beanbagTable offers comfortable conforming support for your laptop computer. Also enables you to recline in a chair with your desktop’s keyboard in your lap. Tapered pillow provides an excellent angle for working, and we’ve heard that the wrist rest is ergonomically better. Rigid nonskid molded top includes pencil trays and is backed with a durable canvas beanbag for years of service.

Dimensions: 18.75″ x 14.5″ x 3.75″

beanbagTable sells for $24.95.

Electrovaya PowerPad Laptop Power Solutions

Electrovaya‘s new LiIon battery pad a allows users to run their laptops up to 16 hours on a single charge. Just plug it in to your AC jack on your laptop.

PowerPad

The PowerPad 160 is an external battery for portable computers with capacity of approximately 160 watthours and, based on internal testing, has a run-time of about 12 to 16 hours for many portable computers. The PowerPad 160 matches the footprint of most portable computers and weighs approximately 2.5 pounds. The product consists of a SuperPolymer battery and proprietary control electronics that provide information to the user on remaining battery power and improve the efficiency of the battery. The PowerPad 160 has been commercially available in limited quantities since June 2000.

If your business takes you on the road, you take work to the cottage on weekends, take long flights or have offsite meetings with clients, the battery for you is the PowerPad 160. It is a perfect synergy of small size, low weight and long-lasting portable power.

PowerPad160 features

  • Up To 6 Times More Run Time
  • Compact and Lightweight
  • Fast Charge
  • Simple Connection
  • Up to 16 hrs from full charge
  • Ultra-Thin and Compact 3/8″x8 3/4 x 11 3/4″
  • Approx. 2.4 lbs. or 1.1 Kg
  • Titanium case
  • 5 LED Fuel Gauge
  • 80% charge in less than 4 hours
  • Can use portable computer’s AC adapter

Cell Energy Density

The new PowerPad 120 comes in a compact form factor at 8″ by 11″ by only 3/8″ thin, weighs less than 2 lbs. and delivers 8 to 12 hours run time keeping the average user in business and productive all day long without needing to recharge. The PowerPad 120 complements Electrovaya’s PowerPad 160. The PowerPad 120 is designed to address the broad mid-tier segment of users, while the PowerPad 160 is designed for more intensive computer users.

PowerPad 120 features

  • Up to 4 Times More Run Time
  • Compact and Lightweight
  • Fast Charge
  • Simple Connection
  • Up to 12 hours from full charge
  • Ultra-Thin and Compact 3/8″x8 3/4 x 11 3/4″
  • Approx. 1.9 lbs. or .9 Kg
  • Titanium case
  • 5 LED Fuel Gauge
  • 80% charge in less than 3 hours
  • Can use portable computer’s AC adapter

The PowerPad is perfect for those times when more than a full day of portable power is a must or when using applications with higher than normal power consumption.

The ultimate battery for the ultimate road-warrior!

Electrovaya ‘s patented technology has the highest energy density of any rechargeable battery commercially available. This means the PowerPad 160 provides more power by volume and weight than any other existing commercial battery technology, which translates into unparalleled run time, the most critical user requirement.

BookEndz Releases New PowerBook G4 Docking Station

BookEndz G4

Photo Control Corporation has announced that a BookEndz Docking Station for the new G4 PowerBook with DVI isnow available for shipping. BookEndz is a line of docking stations for Apple PowerBook and iBook computers that enables the user to convert from a portable system to a complete desktop system (or back) in seconds. The Manufacturer’s suggested list price for the new G4 with DVI docking station is $244.95.

The BookEndz docking stations allow for all of the peripheral devices normally connected to the PowerBook or iBook – printer, external monitor, Ethernet, FireWire, USB, etc. – to be plugged into the back of the dock, and remain plugged in, independent of the computer. Taking the computer from the office or the home, or moving it from one room to another, doesn’t require disconnecting and reconnecting several devices. With the BookEndz docking station the PowerBook or iBook is simply placed into, or removed from, the docking station, connecting and disconnecting all peripheral devices at once.

Currently, BookEndz Docking Stations are available for the Apple iBook, the 2001 and 2002 G4 Titanium and G4 Titanium with DVI PowerBooks, and the 1999 and 2000 G3 PowerBooks. The iBookEndz Docking Station for the iBook is ultra compact – only 1.35″ x 5.75″ x 3″, and takes up very little room on the side of the iBook Computer. The G3 and G4 models add only 3″ to the rear of the computer when docked and allow for increased airflow.

Prices:

  • BookEndz Dock for 1999 Lombard PowerBook G3, $229.95
  • BookEndz Dock for 2000 Pismo PowerBook G3, $229.95
  • BookEndz Dock for 2001 PowerBook G4 (black), $229.95
  • BookEndz Dock for 2001 PowerBook G4 (titanium), $244.95
  • BookEndz Dock for 2002 DVI PowerBook G4 (black), $229.95
  • BookEndz Dock for 2002 DVI PowerBook G4 (titanium), $244.95
  • BookEndz Dock for 2001 iBook (black), $144.95
  • BookEndz Dock for 2001 iBook (white), $159.95

WiebeTech Adds CD/DVD Capabilities to FireWire DriveDock

WiebeTech announces that FireWire DriveDock is now shipping with CD/DVD compatibility. FireWire DriveDock is a very small, fully enclosed module that allows hard drives, CDs, and DVDs to attach to a computer’s FireWire port.

“Our FireWire DriveDock has always provided the best hard disk transfer rate performance through our proprietary implementation of the Oxford OXFW911 FireWire bridge as demonstrated in third-party benchmarks,” said James Wiebe, CEO of WiebeTech. “To make this product even more attractive we have added compatibility with optical media devices. We are now shipping FireWire DriveDock with new firmware that has this support built in. Users can now take advantage of DriveDock’s high performance and ease of use with hard drives as well as CD/ DVD drives.”

FireWire DriveDock now has the following features and benefits:

  • Complete OXFW911 FireWire Bridge. The use of the Oxford OXFW911 FireWire bridge provides users with outstanding performance and highest compatibility with Macs and PCs.
  • Attaches to Any 3.5″ Hard Drive. FireWire DriveDock attaches to drives without requiring the user to open up a case. As a result, drives can be easily changed. Anyone desiring highest performance FireWire storage with total ease of attachment benefits.
  • Attaches to Any CD or DVD Device. As a result, users will be able to easily attach and run these devices, enhancing the general usability and value of FireWire DriveDock.
  • Provides Storage Without a Fan. DriveDock works great without a fan. This provides a quieter operating environment.
  • Universal AC Adapter. Included with DriveDock is a world compatible power supply that will work with 100 à 240 V AC power. As a result, DriveDock may be used everywhere.
  • Drive Base Plate Included. The product includes a baseplate that may be attached to any hard drive, providing protection for drive electronics. Additional baseplates are available for $11.95.
  • Plug and Play Without Drivers. DriveDock allows user’s storage devices to mount on any of the following operating systems without the use of software drivers: Windows 98SE, ME, 2K, XP, Macintosh 9.1, 9.2, and OS X. No drivers are included; none are needed. This makes installation easy.

FireWire DriveDock and many other small, high performance storage products will be shown from the International Pavilion at Apple Expo in Paris, opening on September 10. Dealer and distributor inquiries are welcome. Check the website for further details. Contact jameswiebe@wiebetech.com to make an appointment.

FireWire DriveDock, which includes this new built-in support, is priced at $129.95, including AC adapter. The product is shipping from factory stock.

In the U.S., FireWire DriveDock may be purchased from Dr Bott LLC, WiebeTech’s distributor, or from dealers. End users and dealers may also purchase directly from WiebeTech. Canadian resellers may purchase WiebeTech products from EMJ.

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. The same goes for the PowerBook G4/667 (Gigabit Ethernet/2001) and G4/667 (DVI).

Baucom Computers

Wegener Media

  • PowerBook WallStreet G3/233, 12.1″ LCD, 64/2 GB/56k modem, new CD-ROM, $395
  • PowerBook WallStreet G3/233,13.1″ TFT LCD, 64/2 GB/56k modem, new CD-ROM, $465
  • PowerBook WallStreet G3/250, 13.1″ TFT LCD, 64/4 GB, new CD-ROM, $475
  • Add a 30 GB hard drive, installed with purchase of laptop, $110
  • Add an internal Zip drive module, $49
  • Add a new floppy drive module,, $29

ExperCom

Small Dog Electronics

  • PowerBook G4/800, 512/40 GBCombo, AirPort installed, factory refurbished with a 1 year Apple warranty, includes Small Dog refurbished 2-port Airport Base Station, $3,099
  • PowerBook G4/667, 512/30 GB/DVD-ROM, AirPort, New, $2,099

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