Compiled by Charles Moore
and edited
by Dan Knight
- 2006.05.26
This Week's MacBook, PowerBook, and iBook News
There's so much 'Book news this week that we've split it down
the middle. Our normal 'Book Review (this one) looks at everything
except for the new MacBook, and the nearly as large MacBook special edition looks at Apple's newest
notebook computer.
The PowerBook Era has come to an end, but not without a 2.0 GHz
G4 upgrade for recent PowerBooks. Wegener Media has a fix for the
PowerBook lower RAM slot problem.
MIT's $100 laptop has finally gone to the prototype stage and
will begin production once 5 million orders have been placed, and
Samsung is showing a pair of notebooks with flash memory instead of
a hard drive.
Five sites take a look at the 17" MacBook Pro and find it quite
impressive, if not quite perfect.
This week's coolest new product has to be the
Concerto table (above), which has two speakers for your iPod,
acts as a workspace for your notebook computer, can be used for
informal dining, and looks like a piano. Very cool. dk
All prices are in US dollars unless otherwise noted.
General Apple and Mac desktop news is covered in The Mac News Review. News about Apple's
transition to Intel CPUs and other Intel developments is covered in
The Macintel Report.
News & Opinion
Tech Trends
Reviews
Products and Services
Software
News & Opinion
To Upgrade or Not, That Is the Question
PowerPage's Pierce reports:
"Recently I had the opportunity to upgrade my PowerBook G4 1.5 GHz to a
2.0 GHz Freescale 7447A CPU. Daystar Technology based in
Georgia offers a MAChSpeed upgrade to PowerBook owners like me who
are wanting that extra power to run Logic Pro and other CPU
intensive applications like Final Cut Pro. I took the plunge in the
name of technology and sent my PowerBook in a custom box provided
free by Daystar to its customers.
"One thing should be noted, Gary Dailey CEO of Daystar
technology takes care of each upgrade like it was his own. The
customer is given a tracking number so you know where your
PowerBook is at every point on this journey. There is a
questionnaire inside the box for every customer to fill out in how
well your PowerBook is working and other details. But the process
is quite easy and made extra safe by Daystar.
- Editor's note: I'll second that assessment based on my
experience with a Daystar upgrade of my Pismo PowerBook to 550 MHz G4.
cm
"The question that we all wanted to know was it going to be
worth it upgrading my PowerBook or should I have just gotten a new
MacBook Pro? It is worth it in terms of stability. The PowerBook
arrived unscratched and in better condition then I sent it. There
had been modifications done to the PowerBook in the process and
everything ran really well."
- Link:
To Upgrade or Not, That Is the Question
End of an Era: No More Apple PowerBooks
PC World's Harry McCracken says:
"I've read scads of coverage of Apple's new MacBook, but so far I haven't seen
anyone dwell on one side effect of its debut: With the
discontinuation of the 12-inch
PowerBook, Apple has put an end to one of the longest-running
hardware lines in its history. (And in computer history in general,
come to think of it - in 1991, when the first PowerBook appeared, even the
venerable IBM ThinkPad didn't yet exist.) It was an obvious fait
accompli that the PowerBook name would go away when Apple
announced the MacBook Pro in
January; now it's reality."
- Link: End of an
Era: No More Apple PowerBooks
Good-bye, PowerBook (1991-2006)
Insanely Great Mac' Remy Davison says:
"A tear-jerking blog at PC World delivers tides of nostalgia for
those to whom the PowerBook is more than a fond memory - it's a way
of life.
"A visit to Apple's PowerBook page now redirects you to the
MacBook Pro page. The last hold-out - the 12.1" Mini-Me PowerBook -
is now RIP, replaced, effectively, by the 13.3" MacBook.
"The first PowerBook, the 100,
appeared in 1991, following the satirical Mac Portable, a monstrous 16 lb.
'portable', proudly delivered under CTO Jean-Louis Gassée's
tutelage. It was a relative success due to its Apple logo. It also
cost a monstrous $6,000-plus, depending on RAM and other
options."
- Link: Vale, PowerBook
(1991-2006)
New Community Web Site: ExpressCard-Info
PR: ExpressCard is the new PC-Card replacement standard
supported by MacBook Pro. ExpressCard-Info is a website dedicated
to this new technology offering resources, news, articles and
forums.
ExpressCard is an exciting new PC Card standard from PCMCIA,
backed by most big computer and software companies. ExpressCards
are smaller, cheaper and faster than the old PC-Card.
Metalgrass website network are proud to present
ExpressCard-Info.com, a new web site dedicated to ExpressCard. With
daily news, forums, articles and resources, you can find all your
ExpressCard related information here.
The ExpressCard-Info.com site is aimed at ExpressCard consumers,
hardware professionals and software developers, who seek news,
information and forums. The site also caters for people who want to
learn more about ExpressCard.
Founded in 1989, PCMCIA is a nonprofit trade association that
establishes technical standards for PC Card technology and to
promote interchangeability among computer systems. Already a
feature in almost every notebook and palmtop computer, PC Card
technology empowers users to configure systems and create unique,
integrated solutions to meet their computing needs. Based in San
Jose, California, the association has a growing membership of 125
companies worldwide. The PCMCIA also has a specification
development and copublishing relationship with the Japan
Electronics and Information Technology Industries Association
(JEITA) covering PC Card and Smart Media technologies.
- Link: ExpressCard-Info
Tech Trends
First Pictures of the $100 Laptop
The Register's John Oates says:
"Available in fetching orange and yellow, or shades of blue and
green, here's the $100 laptop, which was unveiled at the Seven
Countries Task Force Meeting yesterday. Almost immediately,
pictures of the machine hit the net.
"Nicholas Negroponte heads up the One Laptop Per Child
organisation which hopes to get massive orders from third world
governments in order to put the devices into production. The idea
is to provide every child in some developing countries with one of
the machines.
"Unfortunately, the organisation's website seems unable to cope
with interest this morning, but it's at laptop.org when it
returns."
- Link: First
Pictures of the $100 Laptop
Samsung Notebook Replaces Hard Drive with Flash
Memory
ExtremeTech's Mark Hachman reports:
"Is the hard drive history?
"Samsung Electronics said Tuesday that it will launch two mobile
computers in early June that will do away with hard drives
altogether, replacing them with 32 gigabytes of NAND flash memory.
The notebooks will be the first to use flash memory as the main
storage device.
"The Samsung Q1, described as an 'ultra-computing device,' will
be complemented by the Q30, a 12.1-inch notebook PC. The retail
price for the Q1-SSD will be 2.3 million Korean won, (about
$2,430), while the Q30-SSD will sell for 3.5 million won (about
$3,700). Unfortunately for U.S. consumers, both will be sold in
Korea only."
- Link: New
Samsung Notebook Replaces Hard Drive with Flash
Reviews
17" MacBook Pro an Excellent Desktop
Replacement
Macsimum News' Dennis Sellers says:
"Okay, let's just put the cards on the table. The new 17-inch MacBook Pro from Apple is a
lousy whip-it-out-and-work-anywhere laptop. It's just too big - and
forget about using it if you're flying coach. But it's a darn
tootin' excellent desktop replacement. If you want/need just one
Mac "for all seasons" and don't need ultimate portability, this is
your baby....
"The 17-inch MacBook Pro includes a 2.16 GHz Intel Core Duo
processor, has a 667 MHz front-side bus and 667 MHz of DDR2 SDRAM
memory that's expandable to 2 GB. Despite its extra horsepower, the
super-sized MacBook Pro didn't seem to generate as much heat as its
little brother. It still gets warm, but not unbearably so.
"I'm still not happy that Apple has dumped the modem [Editor's
note: Me neither. cm] (you can get an external one for $49)
from all new Macs, but I've resigned myself to this fact of life.
There's no PC Card slot; instead, there's a ExpressCard/34 slot,
which seems like a fair trade-off to me....
"The 17-inch MacBook Pro is a marvelous, powerful beast. If you
need a hybrid desktop/laptop this is your baby. Think of it as a
desktop."
Macsimum rating: 10 out of 10
- Link:
17-inch MacBook Pro an Excellent Desktop Replacement
15" 2.0 GHz MacBook Pro vs. 17" 2.16 GHz
MacBook Pro
Bare Feats' rob-ART morgan reports:
"The week of NAB 2006, Apple introduced a 17" MacBook Pro
running at 2.16 GHz. Now as of this week, they bumped the 15"
MacBook Pro up to 2.16 GHz. Since we have a 15" MacBook Pro 2.0 GHz
in our lab, we decided to compare its performance to the new 17"
MacBook Pro 2.16 GHz to see if the 8% higher clock speed provides
an 8% gain in performance.
"We included results for the Intel iMac Core 2 Duo.0 with the
256 MB video memory option....
"Though the CPU clock speed advantage of the 2.16 GHz MacBook
Pro is only 8%, it outperformed the 2.0 GHz MacBook Pro by as much
as 43%, depending on the application."
- Link: Shootout:
MacBook Pro 2.0 GHz versus MacBook Pro 2.16 GHz
17" MacBook Pro Shows Some Poor Design
Decisions
Macworld's Henry Norr reports:
"At first glance, you could easily mistake the new 17-inch MacBook Pro (Best Current
Price: $2675.00) for its predecessor, the legendary 17-inch PowerBook G4 . The new model has
roughly the same dimensions - at 15.4-by-10.4-by-1.0 inches and 6.8
pounds, it's a shade wider, but a tenth of a pound lighter - and it
retains the familiar aluminum enclosure and sleek design.
"Inside, however, the new top-of-the-line Apple laptop
incorporates not only a completely different processor, but a slew
of other changes you should consider before deciding whether - or
when - this is a machine for you....
"A couple of Apple's design decisions did bother me, though.
First, as in the other MacBook models, there's no built-in dialup
modem. Most people won't miss it, but those of us who travel to
less-developed parts of the world or stay in bed-and-breakfasts,
for example, do occasionally need dialup connectivity. Apple does
offer a $49 USB modem, but petite as it is, it's another item to
keep track of - and possibly lose. I wish Apple would offer an
internal modem at least as a build-to-order option.
"I'm also sorry that an ExpressCard/34 slot is the only
expansion option for the new model; leaving a PCMCIA/CardBus slot
and/or adding a larger ExpressCard/54 slot would have given
customers access to some interesting options, including new
wide-area wireless technologies that aren't yet available in the
tiny ExpressCard/34. Besides, many digital photographers,
especially professionals, still rely on CompactFlash memory cards,
and there's no way to fit a CF reader into a 34mm slot (something
you could do with a larger slot and an adapter).
"Last but not least, the system's battery life is
disappointing."
Link: 17-inch
MacBook Pro
17" MacBook Pro Impressive
PC Magazine's Cisco Cheng reports:
"For creative professionals who rely on Apple to get the job
done, look no farther than the MacBook Pro (17-inch). Everyone else
can shop around.
"The MacBook Pro 17-inch, the second Apple branded notebook to
receive Intel's powerful Dual Core architecture, offers virtually
everything a user needs....
"The MacBook Pro 17-inch keeps its weight down to an astounding
6.8 pounds - truly impressive for a desktop replacement....
"There's more surface area on the MacBook 17-inch to dissipate
heat, so it doesn't get as hot as the 15-inch model. Nonetheless,
the base below the keyboard is still too hot by my
standards...."
- Link: Apple
MacBook Pro 17-inch Review
17" MacBook Pro 'a Superb Notebook
Computer and Desktop Replacement'
Gene Steinberg, the Mac Night Owl, writes:
"After spending roughly 10 days with Apple's latest professional
desktop, my opinion stands: This is a superb notebook computer and
desktop replacement. But let's look at the details."
- Link:
The Night Owl Review: 17-inch MacBook Pro
Products and Services
The Concerto Table: When You Play Host
Better Than You Play Piano
PR: The Concerto Table is designed by Nicholas
Lovegrove & Demian Repucci. As well as design our conversations
often flow around our shared passion for food and dining. We
thought about creating the perfect furniture to compliment the
perfect evening.
The inspiration came from enjoying the dramatic presence that a
piano offers an interior. The organic, iconic form is a compliment
to any interior.
We have also looked into the role that furniture can play in
adding to the experience itself, rather than simply a horizontal
flat landscape onto which a dinner party is grafted.
We have used this iconography and paired it with music through
an iPod to create a modern dining experience to be shared with
friends...
The Concerto Table is designed
to be an integral part of the evening's experience. In addition to
its iconic status the table also fills the room with music from
within the conversation.
Simply open the sound lid in the center of the table to reveal
two surface mounted speakers that ensure that every course will be
accompanied by the perfect choice of music without ever having to
leave the conversation.
Control the music for each course using the iPod, flush mounted
in the table top or use the remote control.
In order to give you the tools to have the most perfect dining
experience we have complied a playlist of music that you can
download at iTunes for your iPod.
The Concerto Table recognizes that furniture has to be
multifunctional. The Concerto Table comfortably doubles as the home
office easily as well as still leaving room to eat and listen to
music as you work.
Finished for the day? Simply place your laptop and papers in the
center tray and close the lid.
The Concerto Table is compatible with all Apple iPods. Simply
tell us which model you have, and we will do the rest.
- Dimensions: 70" x 58" x 29"
- Electronics: Apple AV Connection Kit with remote control
- Speakers: 2x50 watt 2 Way speakers, 6.5"x1"
- Amplification: 130 watt
- Materials: Plywood surfaces, poplar, stainless steel, carbon
steel
- Finishes:
- Bright white/high gloss
- Natural
- Link: Concerto
Table
Wegener Media Offers Fix for PowerBook
Lower RAM Slot Failure
PR: Wegener Media's Dave Wegener writes:
Charles,
Greetings from SC. Hope life on the frozen tundra has gone well
for you this spring! Summer has definitely hit here in SC - we're
in the low 90's (F) all week. agggg. At least I can ride the bike
to the office every day and save some gas.
I was perusing some of your older writings recently, and I
realized that we have something which may be of service to a bunch
of your readers.
You've written several times about the G4 PowerBook (Aluminum
series) RAM slot failure.
This has continued to be a serious issue. While my own G4 (1.67
SD) hasn't died, mine is the ONLY one in our shop which HASN'T!
It's happening pretty rapidly. One of our shipping guys had his die
FOR THE SECOND TIME this week. Fortunately his is under AppleCare,
so they're covering it for him.
Anyway, this wasn't an email to complain - but to let you know
that we're able to offer a repair solution for the PowerBook
Aluminums which are afflicted by this issue, and we can repair them
if they're NOT covered by Apple's extended warranty.
There is a page on our site outlining the details. Cost is
$249.99, and it it covered by a 6 month warranty (which is a bit
better than Apple's 90 day warranty when they do the repair at
$650)..
The details (if you want to check it out are at http://www.wegenermedia.com/alumramslot.html
Anyone wishing to have the repair done will need to call our
office to arrange a service tag - or email at service@wegenermedia.com to
get a service tag setup.
We're presently turning these in 12-24 hrs, so it's a pretty
fast solution...
Anyway, I thought you might like to know this. All the best!
- Thanks,
- David
- Wegener Media
- 2115 Commerce Dr
- Cayce, SC 29033
- 803.926.1555 - office
- (212) 857.4931 - fax
Targus Notebook Carrying Cases Ideal
Graduation Gifts
PR: Targus Inc., manufacturer of notebook cases and
accessories, is offering a selection of hip, stylish alternatives
to the traditional black notebook carrying case for college
graduates moving from campus to the corporate world.
"Targus offers a variety of notebook carrying cases designed to
appeal to college graduates who are entering the professional
world, and want to trade in their backpack for a more sophisticated
yet trendy carrying case for their notebook computer, digital
accessories and mobile gear," said Michael Greco, director, U.S.
product marketing for Targus. "All Targus cases offer extra
protection for the notebook, as well as plenty of pockets for
carrying mobile essentials and personal accessories."
Targus is recommending the following notebook cases, now
available at major retailers, or on the Targus website.
radius Leather Messenger (Model #TSM015US)
Designed specifically for the Apple iBook or PowerBook
notebooks, the radius Leather Messenger features multiple pockets
for all essential mobile accessories and digital devices and will
accommodate Apple notebooks with up to 15-inch screens, or 14-inch
PC notebooks. Delivering the ultimate in style, convenience and
protection, the black leather exterior and faux orange suede
interior create a bold fashion statement and its front zip down
workstation's multiple pockets make organization easy.
Featuring a custom retractable airline ticket/travel document
holder, a padded removable notebook slipcase and interior
compartment for superior protection, the radius Leather Messenger
also offers a back slip pocket for files, as well as compartments
for a cell phone, keys, pens/pencils, and business cards or ID.
Business travelers will find the large slip pocket a handy place to
carry newspapers and magazines. The padded adjustable shoulder
strap is designed to provide a comfortable fit for travel.
Measuring 15.4" x 3" x 12.5" the radius Leather Messenger weighs
3.54 lb. The removable slipcase measures 14" x 1.5" x 10.5" and
MSRP is $119.99.
Prism Messenger (Model #TLM007US)
Fashionable and functional, the black nylon Prism Messenger
carrying case is ideal for the traveling businesswoman. Detailed
with contrast stitching, colorful pink lining and plaid accents on
the exterior and removable slipcase, the design incorporates a
subtle touch of color into a modern, executive case. The zip down
workstation includes compartments for a cell phone, PDA and
business cards, as well as pen holders and a key clip. Additional
files and personal accessories can be carried in the back slip
pocket.
The shoulder strap can be adjusted to ensure a comfortable fit,
or can be removed to carry the bag by hand. Measuring 15.75" x 4" x
13.25" the Prism Messenger weighs 3.06 lb. MSRP is $69.99.
Urban Messenger (Model #TSM005US)
The
Urban Messenger's edgier appeal offers a unique and stylish
alternative to traditional notebook cases. Designed to accommodate
notebooks with screen sizes up to 15.4 inches, the Urban Messenger
features a removable padded slipcase, file section, pen/pencil
holders, ID holder and key clip. For media enthusiasts, this case
also includes a six-slot CD/DVD sleeve, an iPod/MP3 pocket with a
headphone port and a removable accessory pouch. The ergonomically
designed handles and padded, slip-resistant shoulder strap allow
for maximum comfort and versatility.
Constructed from quality nylon and featuring rugged,
weather-resistant bottoms, the Urban Messenger measures 16.5" x
4.25" x 12.25" and weighs 3.31 lb. MSRP is $59.99.
Getta Tote (Model #TLT029US)
The
elegantly designed, easy-access Getta Tote offers a protective
padded notebook compartment that fits notebooks with up to
15.4-inch screens. The Getta Tote maintains the integrity and
durability synonymous with the Targus brand, yet also incorporates
the style and functionality that women appreciate. The light beige
lining makes it easy to find travel accessories and personal items.
Interior storage includes pockets for a PDA, cell phone,
pens/pencils, ID or business cards, as well as zippered pockets for
personal items, travel accessories and a removable mini bag.
Available in black nylon, the Getta Tote measures 15.87" x 4.25"
x 13" and weighs 1.98 lb. MSRP is $59.99.
Solitaire Messenger (Model #TLM006US)
The
Solitaire Messenger provides the ideal combination of a
conservative two-tone nylon exterior with a fun and fashionable
lining, ideal for young female executives. Designed to protect
notebook computers with screen sizes up to 15 inches, the Solitaire
Messenger's front pocket workstation features a notebook
compartment with petal pink faux suede lining and compartments for
files, a cell phone and PDA. Also included are pen/pencil loops, a
key clip, and back slip pocket for additional file folders.
The Solitaire's padded/removable shoulder strap provides extra
comfort and the integrated carry handle provides an additional
carrying option. The Solitaire Messenger measures 15" x 3" x 13.25"
and weighs 1.9 lb. MSRP is $49.99.
Jak Messenger (Model #TSM019US)
The Jak
Messenger blends fashion and function and offers a unique
combination of amenities critical to mobile professionals,
including a pocket lined with scratch-resistant fabric to store
sunglasses, a hidden water bottle pocket and a removable accessory
pouch. Designed to fit notebooks with up to 15.4-inch screen sizes,
the front pocket workstation features a business card/ID holder and
pen loops. The back slip pocket provides additional storage space
for files and documents. Constructed of 420D nylon and 600D
polyester, the black and gray Jak Messenger includes a
water-resistant bottom.
The Jak's padded shoulder strap is removable for additional
carrying options, and the handle is wrapped in neoprene for extra
comfort. Measuring 16.5" x 4" x 13" the Jak Messenger weighs 2.62
lb. MSRP is $49.99.
All Targus notebook carrying cases come with a limited lifetime
warranty.
- Link: Targus
FirmTek Serial ATA PC Card for
Laptops
PR: FirmTek, LLC, a pioneer and leader in Serial ATA
(SATA) storage solutions for the Macintosh platform, is now
shipping their anticipated SeriTek/1SM2 PC Card adapter and
SeriTek/2EN2 dual bay enclosure targeting Apple PowerBook and
Windows notebook users. Together these solutions, announced at
Macworld Expo in January, deliver the speed, storage capacity and
flexibility needed to power mobile video production applications to
new levels of effectiveness and productivity.
A compact, hot-swappable enclosure to deliver storage without
limits
The SeriTek/2EN2 is a dual bay external enclosure that utilizes
the very latest technology to reach a blistering top transfer rate
of up to 3.0 Gbs. With performance surpassing that required for
most video work, the enclosure's hot-swap capability erases the
limits of storage, as capacity is only limited by the number of
drives a user has available. In a matter of minutes or less, a
drive is easily slid out of the SeriTek/2EN2 and another slipped
into place, all without restarting or rebooting the system.
To assist customers in maximizing their productivity and
obtaining maximum benefit from their FirmTek solutions, FirmTek
offers drive trays for $22.99 each, without any additional
purchases required. This enables customers to keep an unlimited
number of drives on hand and ready for action.
Enabling Truly Mobile Serial ATA Storage
The SeriTek/1SM2 is a full-featured CardBus 32 Serial ATA
adapter with hot-swap capabilities. This card installs in seconds
into any CardBus 32 equipped Macintosh G4 notebook, as well as
Windows notebooks with comparable hardware. This important solution
gives notebooks a storage subsystem just as powerful as those found
on most desktop systems, a key criteria for taking video production
and other storage-hungry applications out of the office. The
SeriTek/1SM2 works with the SeriTek/2EN2 and other FirmTek
hot-swappable enclosures, bringing the PowerBook into the family of
systems easily benefiting from the flexibility, performance and
security of FirmTek SATA solutions.
The SeriTek/2EN2 and SeriTek/1SM2 are available starting this
week as a bundle for a special price of $279.95. The SeriTek/2EN2
enclosure is also available separately for immediate delivery at
$199.95, and can also be ordered bundled with other leading FirmTek
host adapters. The SeriTek/1SM2 will be available separately in
early June for $89.95. To order, or for more information, please
visit FirmTek's website.
- Link: FirmTek
ComputerRentals.com Now Carries MacBook
and MacBook Pro
PR: Enabling customers to "try before they buy," CRE -
Computer & AV Solutions now has available the all new Apple
MacBook and MacBook Pro which are based on the Intel Core Duo
chipset. These powerful laptop computers are designed to run the
latest in software for the demanding creative professional or road
warrior. The superlative processing power, portability and
durability of these machines make it an ideal addition to
ComputerRentals.com's laptop rental fleet.
CRE- Computer & AV Solutions stocks it's laptop rental
inventory with the all new Apple MacBook and MacBook Pro. These
powerful laptops, based on Intel's Core Duo technology, meet the
demands of rental customers nationwide. Whether used for on-the-fly
video editing or attached to an LCD Projector for a corporate
presentation, the MacBook line of computers can meet just about any
mobile professional need.
Designed for connectivity, whether to a wireless network or the
latest in high end peripherals, the MacBooks can satisfy any laptop
rental customer. Built-in AirPort Express networking enables the
computer to connect to any 802.11 G compatible network. The MacBook
makes it easy to check your email at the corner coffee shop hot
spot or the office WiFi network. The FireWire and USB 2.0 ports
enable just about any digital electronics connection. It couldn't
be easier to attach digital cameras or card readers, DV cameras and
MP3 players. Video Professionals will find the MacBook a perfect
rental solution for their fast-paced workplace.
The MiniDVI port is a perfect solution for the professional
Presenter. Connecting to just about any monitor or projector is as
simple as plugging the appropriate MiniDVI adaptor. The MacBooks
support DVI, VGA and S-Video making it a snap to connect to a video
device. If the preference is to watch video on the ultra sharp Wide
Screen display, simply pop a favorite DVD into the slot loading
optical drive.
These computers also offer the new MagSafe Power Adaptor
technology which will prevent the rental Mac from flying off the
desk when a coworker accidentally trips across the cable. The cable
will break away cleanly leaving both the computer and the adaptor
safe from damage. Additionally Mac OS X has superior power
management ability ensuring long battery life.
As with any new technology in the marketplace, consumers may
exhibit concern about compatibility, functionality or capability.
Renting a newly introduced product enables customers to examine the
technology before making a purchase commitment. Chicago-based
Network Administrator Scott Zeitlin explained the advantage of
renting equipment. "Our network is comprised Mac OS, Windows and
Linux computers. Whenever we introduce a new operating system, or
computer, we need to perform compatibility testing to make sure the
new technology doesn't crash the network. Renting a computer lets
me test the machine without a serious impact to my budget."
The MacBook joins CRE-Computer & AV Solutions (
www.computerrentals.com ) extensive inventory of Apple technology.
Other recent additions include the Intel-based iMac, 30" Apple
Cinema Display and the incredibly powerful PowerMac G5 Quad and
Dual Processor models. The Power Mac G5 Dual and Power Mac G5 Quad
feature dual-core PowerPC processors, a PCI Express expansion bus,
and workstation level graphic capability.
ABOUT CRE: Founded in 1980 in Los Angeles, California, CRE -
Computer & AV Solutions is a nationwide leader of computer and
laptop rentals, audiovisual rentals, plasma rentals and more for
corporate and special events with services throughout the U.S. and
Canada.
- Link: ComputerRentals.com
Software
Launch2net Uses Mobile Phone for
Internet Connection
PR: Use your mobile phone for mobile Internet connections
on your MacBook.
Nova Media has unveiled launch2net version 1.1.9, with support
of new mobile phones from Nokia, Samsung, and Siemens-BenQ and the
new MacBook from Apple.
launch2net is a "wizard" that helps users set up cellular
connections via HSDPA, 3G UMTS, EDGE or GPRS through their Mac and
a compatible mobile phone or PC Data card. The software supports
many mobile phones and most PC Data cards and already includes more
than 300 connection settings for HSDPA, UMTS, EDGE and GPRS
networks around the globe. This eliminates the need for complicated
manual setup procedures of mobile Internet connections.
Version 1.1.9 adds support for BenQ-Siemens EF81, Nokia N91,
N71, E60 as well as Samsung SGH-D730, D600E, D800 mobile phones and
includes compatibility with the new MacBook form Apple.
"Configuration details are different for each mobile device and
network operator," states Jan Fuellemann, PR spokesperson at nova
media. "Most network operators are not Mac-friendly and Mac
customers are often rejected from the operators support centers.
For these customers, this means a long and tedious search for
settings and configurations. This is why we developed launch2net
with automatic device and network detection and connection settings
already included."
Other features allow the use of custom connection settings,
display of connection time and -speed, a connect button for instant
connections and more.
launch2net requires Mac OS X 10.3.9 or 10.4.x and is compatible
to PowerPC and Intel-Macintosh Computers. The software is available
today for Euro 75,- plus VAT. The update is free for existing
launch2net users.
- Link: Nova Media
SideTrack 1.4 PowerBook and iBook
Trackpad Driver
PR: SideTrack is a replacement driver for Apple PowerBook
and iBook trackpads. With SideTrack installed your standard
trackpad becomes a powerful multibutton scrolling mouse.
Leave your external mouse at home and take full control over
your trackpad:
- Vertical scrolling at left or right edge of pad.
- Horizontal scrolling at top or bottom edge of pad.
- Map hardware button to left or right click.
- Map trackpad taps to no action, left click, left click drag
(with or without drag lock), or right click.
- Map trackpad corner taps to mouse buttons 1-6 or simulated
keystrokes.
- Extensive control over accidental input filtering.
SideTrack is multiuser aware and fully compatible with MacOS X
fast user switching (FUS). Every user on your laptop can have
different settings depending on their needs.
SideTrack supports most G3 and all G4 model PowerBooks and
iBooks. SideTrack 1.3.1 does not yet support the MacBook Pro
introduced in February 2006. A MacBook compatible update is planned
and will be released as soon as possible.
Extended control over the trackpad button and tap gestures. Use
trackpad taps for left click, drag gestures, or right click.
Complete scrollwheel mouse emulation with customizable scrolling
speed. Place your scroll zones on either side of the pad, or both
sides simultaneously.
Turn the corners of your trackpad into independent tap actions.
Use the corner zones to emulate up to a 6 button mouse or generate
custom keystrokes. Customize SideTrack's sensitivity and accuracy.
Calibrate to your own trackpad style and adjust filtering to reduce
accidental taps while typing. Choose from several mouse
acceleration options.
System Requirements
- Apple PowerBook or iBook (for specific supported PowerBook
models see the FAQ)
- MacOS X 10.2 (Jaguar), MacOS X 10.3 (Panther), or MacOS X 10.4
(Tiger)
Leave your external mouse at home and take full control over
your trackpad:
- Vertical scrolling at left or right edge of pad.
- Horizontal scrolling at top or bottom edge of pad.
- Map hardware button to left or right click.
- Map trackpad taps to no action, left click, left click drag
(with or without drag lock), or right click.
- Map trackpad corner taps to mouse buttons 1-6 or simulated
keystrokes.
- Extensive control over accidental input filtering.
New in version 1.4:
- [FEATURE] Support MacBook and MacBook Pro models (Universal
Binary).
- [BUG] Fix USB threading on multiprocessor/multicore
kernel.
- [BUG] Better auto adjust of "keep moving" edge size and corner
size on wide pad models (17" PowerBook, 13" MacBook, 15" MacBook
Pro).
System requirements: Mac OS X 10.2 or later.
System support: PPC
$15 Shareware
- Link: SideTrack
CoreDuoTemp 0.8
PR: Monitor the temperature of your Intel Macintosh with
CoreDuoTemp.
Required configuration: iMac 2006, Mac mini 2006, MacBook Pro,
MacBook.
CoreDuoTemp uses SpeedIt.
- New in version 0.8: New features - window position saved, menu
extra indicator, new panel prefs, correction of the English
translation, German language added (thanks to Christian Maus).
- New in version 0.7: Auto login option at launch with KeyChain
Access method to avoid the password every boot. New Icons Set,
thanks to Kevin O'Shea!
- New in version 0.6.1: Correction of an error message bug
- New in version 0.51: Corrected a major memory bug.
System requirements: Mac OS X 10.4.6, iMac 2006, Mac mini 2006,
MacBook Pro, MacBook.
System support: Intel
Free
- Link: CoreDuoTemp
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 and iBook profiles linked in our Portable Mac Index.
- PowerBook Titanium G4/1 GHz, 256/60/Combo, $699.99
- Upgrade to a 2x SuperDrive, $79.99 installed
- Upgrade to a 8x SuperDrive, $139.99 installed
- Upgrade to 1 GB RAM, $189.99
- Upgrade to 512 MB RAM, $59.50
- Upgrade to 80 GB hard drive, $109.50
- Upgrade to 100 GB hard drive, $169.50
- Add an AirPort wireless card, $129.99
- PCMCIA 108mb extreme wireless card, $44.99
- Targus carrying case, with lifetime warranty, $.99
- 12" iBook G3/500, 256/15/CD, $305
- 12" iBook G3/700, 256/20/CD, $349
- 15" PowerBook G4/667 VGA, 256/20/Combo, $625
- 12" iBook G3/900, 256/40/Combo, 6 month warranty, $519.99
- 15" PowerBook G4/1.67 GHz, 512/100/SuperDrive, 6 month
warranty, $1,499.99
- Kanga PowerBook G3/250 MHz, 96/2/floppy, $229.95
- Lombard PowerBook G3/333 MHz, 128/3/CD, $329.95
- 15" PowerBook G4/500, 256/40/DVD, $599.95
- 15" PowerBook G4/1.67 GHz, 512/80/SuperDrive, $1,399.95
- refurb 15" PowerBook G4/1.33 GHz, 256/60/Combo, APX,
$1,299
- refurb 15" PowerBook G4/1.5 GHz, 512/80/Combo, APX, BT 2.0,
$1,399
- refurb 15" PowerBook G4/1.5 GHz, 512/80/SuperDrive, APX,
$1,499
- refurb 15" MacBook Pro 1.83 GHz, 512/80/SuperDrive, $1,599
- refurb 15" MacBook Pro 2.0 GHz, 1024/100/SuperDrive,
$1,999
- refurb 15" MacBook Pro 2.16 GHz, 1024/100/SuperDrive,
$2,199
- refurb 17" PowerBook G4/1.67 GHz, 512/100/SuperDrive, APX, BT
2.0, $1,849
For more deals on current or recently discontinued models, see
our best 15" MacBook Pro deals,
our best 17" MacBook Pro deals,
12" PowerBook G4 deals, 15" aluminum PowerBook G4 deals, 17" PowerBook G4 deals, titanium PowerBook G4 deals, iBook G4 deals, PowerBook G3 deals, and iBook G3 deals.
