All prices are in US dollars unless otherwise noted.
General Apple and Mac desktops is covered in The Mac News Review. iPod, iPhone, and Apple
TV news is covered in The iNews
Review.
News & Opinion
Tech Trends
Products
News & Opinion
Samsung Announcement Fuels MacBook mini Rumors
The Inquirer's
Nick Farrell reports:
"Flash memory maker Samsung is doing nothing to change our minds
that Apple will be releasing a sub-notebook based around its drives
next week.
"Now Samsung has announced that it will be releasing the world's
first 128 GB Flash memory card in 1.8-inch and 2.5-inch versions."
Link:
Apple's Flash Sub-notebook Rumours Fuelled - Samsung Sings
Apple Patents Integrated Monitor/Docking Station
for Portable Computers
Remember the PowerBook Duo?
The Abstract for United States Patent Application 20080002350
reads:
"A docking station is disclosed. The docking station
includes a display and a housing configured to hold the display in a
manner that exposes a viewing surface of the display to view. The
housing defines a docking area configured to receive a portable
computer; The docking area is at least partly obscured by the display
when viewed from the viewing surface side of the display at an angle
substantially orthogonal to the viewing surface."
Link:
United States Patent Application 20080002350
Apple Gets Fans Juices Flowing with iMac-like
Laptop Dock
Register Hardware's
Tony Smith reports:
"The latest Apple patent filing to excite the Mac masses shows the
manufacturer's iMac recast as a docking station for a MacBook
laptop.
"Apple's been here before, of course, with its Duo range of
PowerBooks, launched in 1992. Unlike standard PowerBooks, the Duos were
designed to dock into a Mac-like desktop unit that improved the unit's
monitor support and audio output, and added a floppy drive."
Link:
Apple Gets Fans Juices Flowing with iMac-like Laptop Dock
iMac at Home, MacBook on the Road - in One
Package
PCJoint.com
says:
"I always hate the need to switch/synchronize between my home/work
and portable computer set-ups. But there's nothing I can do about
it....
"Unless Apple goes on and makes a real product from the idea of
merging the iMac and MacBook into a single package:"
Link: iMac
at Home, MacBook on the Road . . . in One Package
MacBooks Consistently Good, but Where's the
'Wow'?
MacLife's
Jennifer Berger says:
"We hope you won't get too excited about these new MacBooks, because
their changes are minimal since the last line. New, slightly faster
CPUs, a change to the keyboard, and (of course) Mac OS X Leopard
preinstalled don't seem like much. In general, this line is solid, but
not as lust-inspiring as other Mac laptop lines in the last few years.
(Ah, for the 12-inch PowerBook G4 days...)"
Link: Apple MacBooks -
Consistently Good, but Where's the 'Wow'?
Are Lenovo's Laptops Beating Acer and Apple to the
Punch?
BetaNews's
Jacqueline Emigh says:
"By unveiling a new line of stylish laptops ahead of both CES and
Macworld, Lenovo stands alone in the limelight today. But is there
still room for another large player in the laptop space?
"In unveiling a trio of design-conscious 'IdeaPad' laptops for the
consumer market, Lenovo today beat newfound competitors such as Dell
and Acer to the punch by at least three days, and Apple by a couple of
weeks."
Link:
Are Lenovo's Laptops Beating Acer and Apple to the Punch?
Tech Trends
Intel Out of One Laptop Per Child
Reuters reports on eWeek:
"The chip giant resigns from the OLPC program after the board
demands it ends efforts in other non-OLPC platforms."
Link:
Intel Out of One Laptop Per Child
A Marriage of Convenience Broken: OLPC and
Intel
Desktop
Linux' Steven J. Vaughan-Nichols reports:
"Opinion - Can I be honest? Intel was never really interested in
partnering with the One Laptop Per Child project. The marriage of Intel
and OLPC was destined for divorce before the two ever walked down the
aisle."
Link:
A Marriage of Convenience Broken: OLPC and Intel
Bad Start to 2008 for the OLPC
eWeek's Jim Rapoza
reports:
"Opinion: The calendar has switched over to 2008 and so far it has
been anything but a happy new year for the One Laptop Per Child
Project."
Link:
Bad Start to 2008 for the OLPC
Intel Unveils 16 Next-Generation Processors,
Including First Notebook Chips Built on 45nm Technology
PR: New Transistor Design, Manufacturing Capabilities Will
Also Power Mobile Internet Devices
Intel Corporation has unveiled 16 new products, including the
company's first 45 nanometer (nm) processors for Intel Centrino
Processor Technology based laptops.
All of these new chips include the company's new transistor formula
and 45nm manufacturing process that boost a PC's speed, reduces power
requirements, saves on battery life, helps the environment and comes in
smaller packages for more fashionable and compact computer designs.
With the introduction of the new processors, Intel will be offering a
total of 32 desktop, laptop and server processors based on these
industry-leading innovations.
The company also highlighted how it will take advantage of its
transistor and manufacturing advances to spur a category of small
form-factor, low-powered, high-performance devices that deliver
broadband Internet access "in your pocket." The processors are up to 25
percent smaller than previous versions, so computer makers can create
sleek, new designs for consumers ranging from stylish all-in-one
desktop PCs to smaller notebooks.
Among the 16 new products, 12 are designed for new laptops and
desktops products and four are for servers. All are now lead-free and,
starting this year, halogen-free, making the processors more
eco-friendly.
"The new products we're announcing today provide consumers and
businesses with the benefit of sleeker and higher-performing laptops
and more powerful and fashionable PCs that deliver for the most
hard-core gamer, high-definition enthusiast and just about every other
consumer demand," said Mooly Eden, vice president and general manager,
mobile platforms group, Intel. "And later this year, Intel will begin
delivering the mobile Internet with much smaller, lighter and powerful
Internet-enabled devices that ultimately will fit right into your
pocket."
Intel Adds Mobile Processors to Lineup
Intel is shipping five new mobile processors, enabling breakthrough
performance and improved battery life, providing consumers with the
ability to be more productive or just enjoy their digital entertainment
while on the go. Helping to extend battery life is also a new Intel
Core microarchitecture design feature for advanced power management
state called Deep Power Down Technology that reduces the power of the
processor when it's not running data or instructions to the laptop.
The processors are the foundation for the company's popular Intel
Centrino technology for laptops, and deliver improved content and video
capabilities with HD DVDa and Blu-Raya support with an optional
third-party decoder. Centrino-based notebooks also come with the Mobile
Intel 965 Express Chipset and wireless networking including the
optional support for 802.11n networks with Intel Next-Gen
Wireless-N.
Intel has also added new video and graphics capabilities with Intel
HD Boost that includes Intel Streaming SIMD Extensions 4 (SSE4) for
speeding up workloads including video encoding for high-definition and
photo manipulation.
Intel will also use this mobile technology foundation and
energy-efficient performance to enable a variety of smaller, cooler and
quieter, stylish desktop designs. These computers, including the
increasingly popular "all-in-one" category, provide the performance to
run a variety of digital media and the latest software simultaneously,
as well as enhanced high-definition video and smoother playback using
Intel Clear Video Technology.
More Mobility on Tap: in Your Pocket; Wireless WiMAX
Pushing the power of the full Internet "in your pocket," Intel's
strategy for using low-power Intel Architecture platforms that
drastically reduce CPU and chipset power, and package size continues to
gain momentum. Intel plans to ship in the first half of this year its
first-generation low-power platform chipset that will help deliver a
range of ultra mobile and mobile Internet devices from a growing
ecosystem of customers.
Intel also continues to work closely with carriers around the world
to deploy mobile WiMAX networks. These networks will help deliver true
high-speed mobile Internet experiences to a variety of digital devices
starting later this year.
Mainstream Desktop PCs Get 45nm Performance and Efficiency
Boost
Building on its November 2007 introduction (the Intel Core™2
Extreme quad-core processor QX9650), Intel announced three quad core
and four dual core 45nm-based processors for mainstream desktop PCs
arriving later this month and throughout the first quarter of the
year.
The new Intel Core™ 2 Quad and Intel Core™ 2 Duo
processor offerings will speed the transition to Intel's newest
processor line and multicore adoption, and are arriving at a time when
digital and high-definition content, including photos, home videos,
music, television shows and social networking, continues to grow
exponentially.
Consumers will realize more performance at a variety of PC purchase
prices as these processors feature a range of clock speeds, large L2
caches, and also come equipped with Intel HD Boost (SSE4 instructions).
These 45nm processors are also a requirement for computer-makers
carrying the Intel Core™2 Processor with Viiv™ technology
brand, making it easier for consumers to select a great entertainment
PC with Intel's most innovative technologies.
Dual core desktop processor-based PCs using these new processors
begin shipping this month; quad core-based systems plan to arrive later
this quarter.
The company also introduced four Intel Xeon processors for servers
and workstations; they are expected to ship this quarter.
Products
Hitachi Rolls Out 500 GB Notebook Hard
Drive
PR: At a time when most of the technology world is asking
"what's the next big thing?", Hitachi Global Storage Technologies
(Hitachi GST) has answered that question quite literally by introducing
the world's highest capacity 2.5-inch mobile hard drive. Setting a new
industry benchmark for capacity, the half-terabyte (500 GB) Travelstar
5K500 is poised to usher in a new era of "slim" desktops, full-featured
notebooks, gaming consoles and other advanced applications for
consumers on-the-go.
With the Travelstar 5K500, Hitachi GST has effectively eliminated
the "capacity compromise" by offering consumers all the storage
capacity of a desktop with the portability and convenience of a
notebook. Moreover, the new drives are well-suited for use in "slim"
desktops, where users are seeking high-capacities in a space-saving,
small form factor enclosure.
These new sleek PC designs are highly desirable among today's
consumers who are often placing computers in multiple rooms throughout
the home. The Travelstar 5K500, available in either a 400 GB or 500 GB
model, is the fourth-generation Hitachi mobile drive to use
perpendicular magnetic recording technology to deliver breakthrough
capacity and reliability.
The half-terabyte drives can store up to 500 hours of digital video,
178 feature length movies, 250 games or 125,000 four-minute songs.
Travelstar 5K500 drives are available with a 3.0 Gb/s Serial ATA (SATA)
interface for enhanced system performance. Hitachi will also offer an
enhanced-availability (EA) version, called the Travelstar E5K500 - also
available in both 400 GB and 500 GB capacities - which is designed for
applications requiring 24x7 operation in lower transaction
environments, such as blade servers, network routers, point-of-sale
terminals and video surveillance systems.
"The Travelstar 5K500 was designed to address some important trends
taking place in today's notebook computing market," said Larry Swezey,
director, Consumer and Commercial HDD, Hitachi Global Storage
Technologies. "Consumers tend to think of their notebooks as less of a
pure technology tool and more of a mobile entertainment device for
taking large libraries of movies, music, games and pictures on the go.
As a result, notebooks are now starting to ship with wide, high
definition screens and large, high quality speakers for playing digital
audio and video. Hitachi's new Travelstar 5K500 responds to these
dynamics with the features, design innovations and technologies that
enhance the overall entertainment experience."
The Travelstar 5K500 is among Hitachi's most technically advanced
and robust family of drives and includes an array of innovative
features, such Hitachi-patented Rotational Vibration Safeguard (RVS)
technology. RVS is designed for today's full-featured notebooks that
commonly include premium speakers for enhancing the movie, music and
gaming experience. These speakers however, can inadvertently cause
vibrations within the system enclosure. To mitigate any adverse impact
on system performance, the Travelstar 5K500 uses RVS as an "early
warning" system for the drive, enabling it to sense a possible
disturbance in advance and take the necessary steps to stabilize the
drive head and avoid any disruptions.
Additionally, the Travelstar 5K500 drives feature 400Gs of shock
protection to further safeguard user data from falls, bumps and rough
handling. The Travelstar 5K500 drives also feature optional Bulk Data
Encryption (BDE) for hard drive level data security. Previously, data
on a hard drive could be protected either through software-based
encryption or a system-level password. However, hard-drive level
encryption provides improved performance and a higher level of security
than any of the previously available options.
BDE models ship exclusively with a 1.5 Gb/s SATA interface.
Consumers have begun to demand environmentally responsible products in
all aspects of their lives. Hitachi has designed the Travelstar 5K500
to address these requirements without compromising performance for
power efficiency, or vice versa. While the Travelstar 5K500 uses a
three-disk design to deliver up to 500 GB of capacity, the new drives
are extremely energy-efficient, with a power profile nearly identical
to its two-disk predecessor, the Travelstar 5K250.
The new drives feature a 1.9 watt read/write power draw and their
0.7 watt low power idle means longer battery life for more "unplugged"
notebook time. Since entering the 2.5-inch segment in 1991, Hitachi has
led innovations in the form factor for every measurable category: areal
density, performance, power management, acoustics, shock tolerance,
reliability and breadth of product options.
Hitachi Travelstar drives continue to be the most popular 2.5-inch
hard drives on the market today. "PC form factors are changing
dramatically as PCs shift from productivity tools to lifestyle
devices," according to Richard Shim, Personal Computing Research
Manager at IDC. "The most notable change is the emergence of notebooks
as the dominant PC form factor over desktops. At the same time,
desktops are slimming down without sacrificing, and in some cases
improving, performance. One key component enabling this "less is more
concept" in PCs is hard drives, which continue to increase in capacity,
while maintaining their relatively diminutive sizes."
The Travelstar 5K500 will be available worldwide in February. The
Travelstar E5K500 will be available by the end of the second quarter,
2008.
Technical Specifications: Travelstar 5K00
- 400/500 GB(a)
- 12.5 mm in height
- 5400 RPM
- 260 billion bits per square inch maximum areal density 3 glass disk
platter(s) 6 TMR recording head(s)
- 1000 G/1ms nonoperating shock
- 400 G/2ms operating shock
- 5.5 ms average latency
- 12 ms average read time
- 0.95 W active idle
- 0.7 W low-power idle
- 1.8 W idle power (EA version only)
- Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s, 1.5 Gb/s encrypted
- 148 grams in weight
- 2.2 Bels typical idle acoustics
- 2.4 Bels typical operational acoustics
Link: Hitachi
Samsung Announces 500 GB Notebook Hard
Drive
PR: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. announces the development
of its new Spinpoint M6 500 GB, the world's first 500 GB 2.5" hard
drive that fits in the industry's standard 9.5mm height dimension.
Armed with 500 GB capacity, the Spinpoint M6 is designed to meet the
growing storage needs of today's notebook computers as well as slim
form factor PCs, blade servers and high density mobile
applications.
Samsung's complete suite of new hard disk drives will be on display
at CES 2008 in its Semiconductor Product Showcase, #N236, of the Las
Vegas Convention Center, North Hall, 2nd Floor.
"We continue to raise the bar for high capacity 500 GB 2.5" hard
drives," said Andy Higginbotham, director of hard drive sales and
marketing, Samsung Semiconductor. "Our Spinpoint M6 500 GB extends the
data storage capacity for notebook PCs and readily fits within the tens
of millions of notebook PCs that ship every quarter with no
modification to the notebook PC chassis, giving users more storage
power than ever before."
Samsung's new Spinpoint M6 500 GB consists of three 166 GB platters
in a 2.5" hard disk drive frame measuring just 9.5mm in height.
Mainstream notebook PCs can now support capacity of up to one terabyte
by installing two Spinpoint M6 500 GB drives.
The Spinpoint M6 500 GB hard drive features a 5400 rpm spindle
speed, a 8 MB cache, and 3.0 Gbps SATA interface with a free fall
sensor and a rotational vibration sensor available as optional
features. Perpendicular Magnetic Recording technology enables the 500
GB drive to store 160,000 digital images, 125 hours of DVD movies, or
60 hours of high definition video images. The drive also features
Samsung's Flying on Demand head technology that improves recording
stability over changing temperature ranges.
Samsung's Spinpoint M6 500 GB is expected to be available in March
2008.
Link: Samsung
Belkin Unveils New Laptop Case and
Backpack
PR: New Ceylon Messenger Bag from Belkin
Stylish and lightweight, the new Belkin Ceylon Messenger bag
brings modern style and functionality to your laptop for local outings
to the coffeehouse or the bookstore. Unlike heavier, bulkier laptop
bags of "mobile warriors," the Messenger is slimmer and lighter, yet
still provides plenty of room for your laptop and accessories. With its
built-in stability, the Messenger bag stands upright on its own for
easy packing and unpacking.
Statistics
- Laptop users who rarely or never take their laptops outside of the
home now exceed the number of those who frequently bring their laptop
outside the home(a)
- The 35% of laptop users who use their laptops outside of the home
take the laptops out on "local" trips, such as the coffeehouse or a
friend's house(a)
Features
- Slim and lightweight - multiple compartments provide ample room for
your laptop and accessories
- Hidden handle available when needed
- Plush inner lining protects laptops from scratches
- Built-in stability for easy packing--bag stands up on its own
- Works with 15.4" laptops--both widescreen and standard
- Made with water-resistant nylon
- Available in colors: black/light grey, grey/lavender, grey/green,
grey/blue
Availability
- Late January 2008 in all global regions
On Display At:
- 2008 International CES, January 7 - 10, 2008, in Las Vegas at Booth
#30368 South Hall
- Macworld Conference & Expo 2008, January 15-18, 2008, in San
Francisco at Booth #911
- Ceylon Messenger (F8N059) - $49.99
- Built-in stability for easy packing
- Fits up to a 15" laptop
- Available in colors: black/gray, gray/blue, gray/lavender
(a) Belkin market research
Carry Your Laptop In Comfort and Style With the New Belkin
Backpack
Belkin's
new Backpack boasts a slim design that allows you to carry your laptop
and other notebook accessories without added bulk. Its plush inner
lining protects your laptop from scratches and is soft to the touch.
The Backpack has two shoulder straps with extra padding and breathable
mesh to give you maximum support while you trek to the coffee house, to
work, or even through the airport.
Statistics
- Laptop users who rarely or never take their laptops outside of the
home now exceed the number of those who frequently bring their laptop
outside the home(a)
- The 35% of laptop users who use their laptops outside of the home
take the laptops out on "local" trips, such as the coffeehouse or a
friend's house(a)
Availability
- Currently available with launches in Asia, Europe, and Australia to
follow.
On Display At:
- 2008 International CES, January 7 - 10, 2008, in Las Vegas at Booth
#30368 South Hall
- Macworld Conference & Expo 2008, January 15-18, 2008, in San
Francisco at Booth #911
Backpack (F8N057) - $59.99
- Plush inner lining protects laptops from scratches
- Slim design provides as much carrying capacity as larger cases
- Separate pouch included for power adapter and cables
- Phone compartment in shoulder strap
- Fits up to a 15.4" widescreen laptops
- Available in colors: dark gray/green, dark gray/light blue, dark
gray/lavender, black/light gray, jet/cabernet, chocolate/tourmaline,
dove/tarragon, dove/peony
(a) Belkin market research
Belkin offers a diverse product mix that provides people with
seamless electronics integration in their homes, cars, and on the go.
Founded in California in 1983, Belkin is a privately held company and
the recognized leader in connectivity solutions, in addition to
accessories for MP3 devices, computers, and more. We provide extensive
solutions for networking, home theater - with the PureAV line of
cables, power, and digital wireless accessories - and many more
categories. You can view and purchase them at Belkin.com, as well
as through a network of major distributors, resellers, and
superstores.
Targus Announces 3 New Stow-N-Go Mice,
HeatDefense Panel, and Portable Power Strip
PR: Targus Inc., maker of the world's top-selling laptop
computer cases and accessories, today announced the newest additions to
its line of premium laptop accessories. The new products include the
Retractable Optical Stow-N-GoTM Laptop Mouse, Retractable Laser
Stow-N-GoTM Laptop Mouse, Wireless Laser Stow-N-GoTM Laptop Mouse,
HeatDefense laptop cooling system and Travel Power Outlets with Surge
Protection. Targus' laptop accessories are designed to help ease your
accelerated life while traveling.
"With the ever-increasing speed of business and personal life,
Targus is committed to enhancing the lives of road warriors, traveling
professionals and laptop users alike while on-the-go," said Mike Kroll,
director of product management-accessories at Targus. "Targus' exciting
new portable accessories offer these users simple and convenient
solutions to maximize their productivity and efficiency while providing
fast, flexible and reliable mobility."
Three New Stow-N-Go Mice
Targus' newest line of laptop mice bring a fresh new look and
cutting edge technology to simplify computer navigation. The mice
feature a tilt-wheel with four-way scrolling for efficient viewing of
spreadsheets, photos, images, etc. For widescreen laptops, users can
simply adjust the cursor speed with the convenient one-touch button and
indicator light, which changes the DPI (Dots Per Inch) setting from
1600/1200/800. Program the scroll button on any of the mice to suit
your needs including zoom, magnify, launch Internet Explorer, Internet
back, cut, paste, copy, double-click, etc. The Retractable Optical
Stow-N-Go and the Retractable Laser Stow-N-Go laptop mice have a
convenient 2.5 ft. retractable cord, which attaches to the bottom of
the mouse for easy travel. The Retractable Laser Stow-N-Go and Wireless
Laser Stow-N-Go mice feature laser sensor technology, offering 20 times
more tracking sensitivity, making it easy to use on shiny surfaces such
as glass or covered surfaces. With a 2.4 GHz frequency, the wireless
mouse can expand to greater distances of up to 10' and can easily be
turned off for travel by tucking the receiver neatly under the mouse.
The Retractable Optical Stow-N-Go Laptop Mouse (AMU40US) measures 3.74"
x 2.44" x 1.38" and has an estimated street price of $19.99. The
Retractable Laser Stow-N-Go Laptop Mouse (AMU41US) measures 3.74" x
2.44" x 1.38" and has an estimated street price of $29.99. The Wireless
Laser Stow-N-Go Laptop Mouse (AMW26US) measures 3.74" x 2.36" x 1.46"
and has an estimated street price of $39.99. The new mice will be
available in March 2008.
HeatDefense
Targus' lightweight and easy-to-store HeatDefense cooling system can
be placed underneath the laptop on your lap or desk to assist in
cooling your device and providing heat protection. The HeatDefense
cooling pad features innovative HeatShift Technology, which uses a
crystalline compound to absorb heat emitted from laptops. As your
laptop heats up the pad, the crystalline compound melts into a gel-like
substance, which absorbs the laptop heat and protects your lap or
workstation from heat damage. HeatDefense help laptops operate at
cooler temperatures to maximize laptop performance. Whether you're
using it with a 12" laptop or a larger 17" laptop, the foldable
HeatDefense provides a comfortable experience and easily stores away
for travel. The HeatDefense (TXZ014US) measures approximately 13.35" x
11.85" and will be available in April 2008 at an estimated street price
of $29.99.
Travel Power Outlets with Surge Protection
Equipped with 4 outlets, Targus' new Travel Power Outlets with Surge
Protection help protect your electronics while providing instant outlet
expansion whether you're at the airport, hotel room, library, or the
local coffee shop. With its innovative design, the Travel Power Outlets
accommodate oversized power adapters while allowing for easy travel
with its ability to fit into hard to reach places. You can now charge
your cell phone, camera battery and work on your laptop all from one
location. The Travel Power Outlets with Surge Protection (APS03US)
measures 2.80" x 10.75" x 7.70" and only weighs 8 oz. It will be
available February 2008 at an estimated street price is $19.99.
All products are backed by a limited lifetime warranty. Targus' new
accessories will be available at Targus.com as well as through leading
retailers, e-tailers and computer manufacturers' websites.
Targus Takes Laptop Security to the Next Level with Its New DEFCON
Privacy Filters
Targus Inc. has announced its new DEFCON Privacy Filters as an
extension of their complete line of laptop security products. Designed
specifically to protect sensitive information displayed on laptop
screens or LCD monitors, privacy filters safeguard data from prying
eyes and provide an ergonomic benefit by reducing glare to help prevent
eye strain.
The new DEFCON Privacy Filter is designed to fit laptops with
display sizes of 12.1" and 14.1" as well as laptops with widescreen
display sizes of 12.1", 14.1", 15.4" and 17". It also fits LCD monitors
with 17" or 19" displays and 19", 24" and 30" widescreen displays.
"With more laptops being used while on the go in planes, airports,
coffee shops and other public places, there is the increased risk of
vital information being stolen from your laptop screen," stated Mike
Kroll, director of product management-accessories at Targus. "Targus'
new easy-to-use DEFCON Privacy Filter can protect you, your business
and your sensitive information from the prying eyes of strangers."
Targus' new Privacy Filter uses small vertical blinds to shield your
personal and mission critical files from anyone looking at more than a
45 degree angle from the center of the screen. By narrowing the viewing
angle, anyone attempting to catch a glimpse of your laptop or LCD
monitor will see nothing more than an obscure dark screen. The filter
can easily be attached to your LCD with specially designed clear
adhesive strips or with the included tab guides, which are designed to
keep the filter in place and are simple to install and remove as
needed.
The Privacy Filters for Laptop Displays will be available for
estimated street prices of:
- 12.1" (ASF121USZ) and 12.1" widescreen (ASF121WUSZ)- $47.99
- 14.1" (ASF141USZ) and 14.1" widescreen (ASF141WUSZ) - $47.99
- 15.4" widescreen (ASF154WUSZ) - $54.99
- 17" widescreen (ASF17WUSZ) - $74.99
The Privacy Filters for LCD screens will be available for estimated
street prices of:
- 17" (ASF17USZ) - $74.99
- 19" (ASF19USZ) and 19" widescreen (ASF19WUSZ)- $84.99
- 24" widescreen (ASF24WUSZ) - $179.99
- 30" widescreen (ASF30WUSZ) - $279.99
Backed by a limited one-year warranty, Targus' DEFCON Privacy Filter
will be available later this month at Targus.com as well as through
leading resellers, e-tailers and computer accessory websites.
Link: Targus
New Kensington Notebook Cases for Women Pack
Style, Functionality and Comfort
PR: Rich, Textured Exteriors with Contrast Stitching, Paisley
Linings and Pleats Meet Light Weight, Smart Pockets and Ergonomic
Support
Kensington Computer Products Group has introduced three new Contour
Balance cases - a top loader case, backpack and roller - made
specifically for professional women to carry their notebook computers
in style and comfort.
The new Contour Balance line takes inspiration from women who demand
styling to match the latest fashion trends, but also the functionality
to keep up with their professional lifestyle in comfort. Balance lets
women express their personality and taste with designs that bring out
the colors, patterns, textures and shapes of today's latest looks.
Kensington's expertise in designing for mobile professionals ensures a
customized level of comfort, for a line of cases that fits like your
favorite pair of shoes.
Each Contour Balance case is finished in either onyx and white or
chocolate and cream, with contrasting floral paisley or graphic print
along the interior. Understated, clean lines and modern silhouettes on
the outside combine with thoughtful features on the inside that are
custom-designed for professional women.
"Uncompromising style. The concept behind Contour Balance was to
give professional women a smart alternative to impractical fashion,"
said Ly Nguyen, Regional Product Manager, Cases. "These three new cases
don't just look great; we designed them to offer outstanding notebook
protection and comfort. We shaped them to fit the contours of a woman's
body, which makes carrying them more natural; we added ergonomic straps
and panels to make them more comfortable; and we packed them with
features to give women more options for carrying their work around. The
result is style with purpose."
Key features of the new Contour Balance line include:
- Stylish and Smart - designed to complement your wardrobe and show
off your good taste, Contour Balance has the refined styling to hold
its own among your other bags, but with the practicality and
versatility that will quickly make it your favorite.
- Protective and Light - each Contour Balance case uses a patented
AirBrake cushioning system to provide superior protection for notebook
computers, while the overall weight of each case has been reduced to
make them easier to carry. The Contour Roller, for example, is up to
25% lighter than traditional rollers.
- Comfortable - new Air-Flo Contour panels are tailored for women,
offering custom-fitting ergonomic support that dissipates heat and sits
closer to the torso for greater comfort on the go.
- Organized - purpose-built pockets provide dedicated storage for
accessories and separates smaller items from larger ones, making it
easy to find that lipstick or power supply when the need arises.
- Strong - durable, lightweight and water-resistant, the microfiber
exterior of a Contour Balance case will stand up to regular wear and
tear without showing it.
- Convenient - stowable shoulder straps (available on top loader)
offer a choice of carrying options, and a telescoping handle (available
on Roller) makes traveling a breeze.
The Contour Balance Collection from Kensington Includes:
- Kensington Contour Balance Case (K62535US onyx & K62536US
chocolate): A case for your 15" notebook and all your essentials. A
detachable, ergonomic shoulder strap can be stowed in an exterior
pocket. The protection system at the bottom of the case protects your
notebook from accidental falls. Feminine pleat detailing and a stylish
paisley or graphic print inset. Available in onyx and chocolate.
Suggested retail price $79.99.
- Kensington Contour Balance Backpack (K62534US): This compact
backpack has space for smaller accessories, and a dedicated notebook
compartment that will fit 14.1" widescreen computers. Ergonomic straps
are designed to provide the greatest support for women. Contrasting
chocolate and cream colors make for a polished, professional and
feminine look. Available in chocolate only. Suggested retail price
$69.99.
- Kensington Contour Balance Roller (K62533US): A telescoping handle
lets you wheel around your 15.4" widescreen notebook and other
accessories, while the lightweight design is up to 25% lighter than
traditional rollers, making it easier to carry. The microfiber material
offers high durability, soft fabric and scuff resistant bottom.
Kensington's patented Contour panel makes the case more comfortable to
carry when needed. Available in onyx only. Suggested retail price:
$119.99.
The new Kensington Contour Balance Cases are available for pre-order
at Amazon.com and Kensington.com and will be available at other major
retailers in February 2008.
Link: Kensington
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.
No change from last week except the addition of one high-end MacBook
model. cm
- refurb 2.0 GHz Core 2 MacBook, white, 1 GB/80/Combo, $899
- refurb 2.16 GHz Core 2 MacBook, white, 1 GB/120/SD, $1,049
- refurb 2.16 GHz Core 2 MacBook, black, 1 GB/160/SD, $1,249
- refurb 15" 2.2 GHz Core 2 MacBook Pro, 2 GB/120/SD, $1,699
- refurb 15" 2.33 GHz Core 2 MacBook Pro, 2 GB/120/SD, $1,899
- refurb 15" 2.4 GHz Core 2 MacBook Pro, 2 GB/160/SD, $2,099
- refurb 17" 2.33 GHz Core 2 MacBook Pro, 2 GB/160/SD, $2,199
- refurb 17" 2.4 GHz Core 2 MacBook Pro, 2 GB/160/SD, $2,399
- refurb hi-res 17" 2.4 GHz Core 2 MacBook Pro, 2 GB/160/SD,
$2,599
- 12" PowerBook G4/1 GHz, 256/60/SD, $529.99
- 15" PowerBook G4/400 MHz, 256/20/DVD, $499.99
- 17" PowerBook G4/1 GHz, 512/60/SD, $999.99
- 17" PowerBook G4/1.5 GHz, 512/80/SD, $1,119.99
- 15" Aluminum PowerBook G4/1 GHz, 256/60/Combo, $699.99
- 15" Aluminum PowerBook G4/1.25 GHz, 256/60/Combo, $709.99
- 15" Aluminum PowerBook G4/1.33 GHz, 256/60/Combo, $724.99
- 15" Aluminum PowerBook G4/1.5 GHz, 512/80/Combo, $799.99
- 15" Aluminum PowerBook G4/1.67 GHz, 512/80/Combo, $899.99
- 15" hi-res PowerBook G4/1.67 GHz, 512/80/SD, $949.99
- 17" 2.16 GHz Core Duo MacBook Pro, 1 GB/100/SD, $1,459.99
- 17" 2.16 GHz Core Duo MacBook Pro, 1 GB/120/SD, $1,499.99
- 17" 2.16 GHz Core Duo MacBook Pro, 1 GB/160/SD, $1,529.99
- 17" 2.16 GHz Core Duo MacBook Pro, 1 GB/200/SD, $1,619.99
- open box 2.16 GHz Core 2 MacBook, white, 1 GB/120/SD, warranty
started, $1,199
- open box 2.16 GHz Core 2 MacBook, white, 1 GB/120/SD, $1,229
- open box 2.16 GHz Core 2 MacBook, black, 1 GB/160/SD, warranty
started, $1,399
- open box 2.16 GHz Core 2 MacBook, black, 1 GB/160/SD, $1,439
- open box 15" 2.2 GHz Core 2 MacBook Pro, 2 GB/120/SD, $1,899
- open box 15" 2.2 GHz Core 2 MacBook Pro, 2 GB/200/SD, $2,229
- open box 15" 2.33 GHz Core 2 MacBook Pro, 2 GB/120/SD, warranty
started, $2,199
- open box 17" 2.33 GHz Core 2 MacBook Pro, 2 GB/160/SD, $2,599
- open box 17" 2.4 GHz Core 2 MacBook Pro, 2 GB/160/SD, warranty
started, $2,649
- open box 17" 2.4 GHz Core 2 MacBook Pro, 2 GB/200/SD, $2,899
- 12" iBook G4/800, 640/30/Combo, $449
- 12" iBook G4/800, 640/30/Combo, APX, $485
- 15" PowerBook G4/1.25 GHz, 512/80/SD, $685
- Add Airport Extreme for $39
- open box 17" 2.4 GHz Core 2 MacBook Pro, 2 GB/160/SD, $2,599
- 12" iBook G3/500, 128/10/CD, $199.95
- 12" iBook G3/500, 256/10/Combo, $299.95
- 12" iBook G3/600, 128/20/CD, $219.95
- 12" iBook G3/700, 256/20/CD, $229.95
- 12" iBook G3/800, 256/30/CD, $249.95
- 12" iBook G4/800, 640/40/Combo, $479.95
- 14" iBook G4/800, 512/40/Combo, $529.95
- 15" PowerBook G4/1 GHz, 512/80/Combo, APX, $999.95
For more deals on current and discontinued models, see our MacBook deals, MacBook Pro deals, 12" PowerBook G4 deals,
15" PowerBook G4
deals, 17"
PowerBook G4 deals, titanium PowerBook G4
deals, iBook G4
deals, PowerBook G3
deals, and iBook G3
deals.
