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April 2005 Archives

Friday, April 29th 2005

News and Notes

With Tiger coming out today, we thought the best thing we could do is provide some suitable reading material for while the OS installs. First up we have the latest in the series of much-beloved Tiger reviews by John Siracusa at Ars Technica. These reviews have practically become a staple tradition accompanying every major Mac OS X update.

Next, we have a short article on fingerprint technology in some new Toshiba laptops. It seems like there's been renewed interest in fingerprint technology for securing computers, portable hard drives, etc., but a few grisly stories of finger removal, not to mention Wesley Snipes' workaround of iris sensors in Demolition Man have led us to be less than overwhelmingly supportive of such technology.

Thursday, April 28th 2005

Apple Updates PowerMacs, Cuts Prices on LCDs

Apple has updated the PowerMac line, giving them their first refresh in quite a long time. The new lineup includes the base model being a 1.8GHz G5 with 256MB of RAM, 80GB hard drive, 64MB graphics card, and 8x SuperDrive, while the next model up features a dual 2.0GHz G5 with 512MB of RAM, 160GB hard drive, 128MB graphics card, and 16x dual-layer SuperDrive. Above these two models is the dual 2.3GHz G5, with 512MB of RAM, 250GB hard drive, 16x SuperDrive, 128MB graphics card, and three PCI-X slots (versus regular PCI on the lower models). Finally, the top of theline PowerMac has a dual 2.8GHz G5, 512MB of RAM, 250GB hard drive, 16x SuperDrive, three PCI-X slots, and a burlier 256MB graphics card.

All of these models are shipping immediately, excepting the base model, which has a 1-3 day shipping time. Additionally, the 2.7 GHz model uses the much-hyped liquid cooling system, and all of the systems ship with Tiger.

Perhaps more interesting for PowerBook users, the Apple Cinema Display line was updated with lower prices. As we saw with the lowered PowerBook prices with the last update, LCD prices are finally coming down. The 30" display is now an easily-justified $2999, while the 23" is $1499, and the 20" is an embarrassingly-cheap $799. All models are shipping immediately, according to the Apple Store.

200GB Notebook Hard Drives Announced

It was just last month that the big news in portable storage was the 120GB drive Fujitsu had developed, but they haven't been resting on their laurels. Fujitsu said today that they plan to produce a 200GB 2.5" hard drive for notebook computers in the first half of 2007. These higher-capacity portable drives being announced by multiple manufacturers are all utilizing a new technology, known as perpendicular recording, to increase the data density on drives, thus allowing greater capacity without sacrificing portability.

Wednesday, April 27th 2005

News and Notes

It's a slow news day today, as it looks like we're on the verge of not only the release of Tiger, but PowerMacs and iMacs, too.

Over at O'Grady's PowerPage is a funny, and positive, story about one PowerBook owner's trip to Vegas and the warranty work that followed.

For owners of older PowerBooks, Charles W. Moore answers some reader mail on upgrading the Pismo PowerBook at Low End Mac.

Finally, for those people interested in PowerBook customization and modification, 2 Guys, a Mac, and a Website has a how-to on changing the color of the glowing Apple in the lid of the PowerBook.

Tuesday, April 26th 2005

Can Apple Recapture the Education Market?

Yesterday we mentioned an article by Dan Knight, over at Low End Mac, which discusses the possibility of Apple making a laptop in the $500-$600 range for use in the education market. The article got the PBZone staff talking, as it has some very unorthodox suggestions, and a friend of the crew has worked in one school district with an iBook program for students. Continuing with our trend of considering future expansion of Apple's portable offerings, then, we thought we'd take a look at what Apple should, and what Apple shouldn't, do for the education market.

In yesterday's post, we said that Apple has faced the difficulty of attempting to reach new segments of consumers, while maintaining the image of being a premium brand. Of course, it isn't easy to go after the sub-$1000 market without sacrificing either quality or performance. We'd suggest, though, that if the basic build and component quality of the laptop cannot be preserved at a $500-$600 price point, then there's really no point in moving forward with a product at that price. A school full of laptops that are in and out for repairs and replacement is not one that is using time and money efficiently. The Apple laptops students will receive in school will also be, for many of them, their first exposure to Macs, and a generation of consumers could be turned off by a poor experience.

Now, assuming something along the lines of the current iBook G4 is used for the education market, the question is what can be removed to lower prices, but without limiting functionality too substantially. The problem, we find, is that there simply are not many extraneous features on the current iBooks. The current 12" iBook has only 256MB of RAM, a 30GB hard drive, and a 32MB graphics card. This is an adequate machine, though not particularly generous in any one area, but lacks much that can be stripped to lower the price. The combo drive could only be lowered to a simple DVD-ROM, BlueTooth is already non-standard, and the included AirPort card is seen as a must by most people in this field.

Dan Knight's article gets creative in this area, suggesting that perhaps only a couple external optical drives could be shared per classroom, and AC adapters could be dropped in favor of a multi-battery charger. We brought up these points with our friend who works in this area, and he believes these solutions to be, quite simply, far from practical. These laptops are handled by children and teenagers none too gently, not to mention the inevitable technical problems that come in large volume installations. Every day is full of diagnosing and solving problems using CDs and DVDs with utility software, in addition to the regular software updates, installations, and reformatting that comes with the job. Having to swap the iBooks one by one with the external optical drive complicates many daily tasks.

Additionally, the removal of AC adapters for every laptop seems impractical. The advantage of giving students laptops is that they are not bound to the computer lab's dimensions and opening hours. The laptop can go to every classroom, then head home with the student. Can you imagine the number of times a teacher will get the excuse that, "It's not my fault, the iBook battery died," if they can't take an AC adapter home with them?

Essentially, we are saying that Apple makes good hardware for a reasonable price, but they simply can't play in this cutthroat market with their portable lineup. Not all is lost, though. Where Apple excels, and has always excelled, is in providing value. While the hardware might cost more, if Apple can provide superior value in support, they could do well for themselves. As Dan Knight says, play up the fact that viruses are not a concern with Mac OS X, and let them know that while they might be understaffed to manage and administer a huge group of Windows PCs, the same number of staff will be much more adequate when tending to Macs. Let them know how well Apple support ranks relative to the big PC companies. In short, show them that by spending more on the hardware, the lives of the administrators, teachers, IT staff, and students all benefit.

Griffin Now Shipping The AirClickUSB Remote for Macs and PCs

We received this PR from Griffin on a product we thought a lot of you would be interested in:

NASHVILLE, TN - Monday, April 25th, 2005. Griffin Technology Inc., innovator of exciting accessories for Mac and iPod, today announced that they are now shipping the AirClickUSB Remote, a unique wireless remote control for Mac and PC computers.

The AirClickUSB Remote uses RF technology that allows users to control their computers from up to 60 ft. away. Users do not have to be in line of sight, making AirClick ideal for controlling applications remotely. RF signals pass through walls, so users do not even have to be the same room. The AirClickUSB remote is compatible with all Macs and PCs with a USB port, running OS X or XP. Each AirClickUSB package ships with a remote, a USB receiver, a software CD and a USB extension cable for maximum flexibility in receiver placement.

The AirClickUSB ships with the ability to control a number of popular applications, including: iTunes (Mac/PC), Windows Media Player (PC), PowerPoint (Mac/PC), Keynote (Mac), QuickTime (Mac/PC) and DVD Player (Mac). Future software updates will include additional applications.

For users with an AirPort Express using AirTunes, the AirClickUSB is a perfect companion, allowing wireless control of your iTunes library without getting up from the couch.

The small, elegant remote control features five buttons: play/pause, next track, previous track, volume up, and volume down. Each button can change its functionality depending on the application it's controlling. The AirClickUSB remote is identical to the AirClick for iPod remote and can be used to control either iPod or PC. Each AirClick receiver has the ability to be paired to any remote unit, so a single remote could be used for controlling either an iPod, a computer, or both.

The AirClickUSB gives you ultimate wireless versatility. Control your PowerPoint or Keynote presentations, pause, fast forward your DVDs and conduct your music throughout the house. The AirClickUSB is for the control freak inside each of us.

Pricing & Availability
The Griffin AirClickUSB is $39.99 USD and can be ordered from www.griffintechnology.com.

Monday, April 25th 2005

Could Apple Make a $500 Laptop?

In light of the discussions we've had on the possibility of a MiniBook, not to mention the frequent issues surrounding student laptop programs in many school districts, we found this piece from Dan Knight to be quite interesting. While Apple has worked to both present itself as a premium product, though still accessible to average consumers, it's interesting to consider what compromises can be made, and which ones are simply not acceptable for the brand. If Apple wants to go for this market, there are many questions to consider.

Also at Low End Mac, we recommend The 'Book Review to catch up on any news you might have missed last week.

News and Notes

Mac News World has an article on one man's experience setting up his new PowerBook, with some interesting ways of setting up users in Mac OS X.

Also, over at Engadget is a funny story on some advertising for the Sony Vaio that features, oddly enough, the Apple PowerBook.

Friday, April 22nd 2005

OWC and Newer Technology Deliver High-Capacity Battery for 12" PowerBook

Other World Computing and Newer Technology today announced the availability of their NewerTech NuPowr PowerBook battery for all 12" aluminum PowerBooks. For $140, the NuPowr battery offers a one-year warranty and up to an 11-13% increase in capacity, depending on which model of Apple battery it is replacing. Considering that is about what an Apple-brand battery cost the last time we checked, that's a pretty good deal.

Getting Your PowerBook Working on EVDO Data Networks

We haven't covered the topic much here, but we know many of you have been attempting to get data cards working in your PowerBooks to utilize high-speed EVDO networks from the likes of Spring and Verizon. To that end, EVDOinfo.com has updated with more instructions on how to get on board these networks with your 'Book.

Thursday, April 21st 2005

News and Notes

First up we have the latest PowerBook Mystique from the prolific Charles W. Moore. Charles reviews the Drive Genius utility suite, evaluating its use for PowerBook hard drive maintenance.

Also, over at AppleInsider today, there is news that the iBook line is nearing a refresh. It looks like the update will be relatively minor, but will lessen the already-small gap between the 12" PowerBook and iBook.

TechRestore Announces Reseller Program for Consultants, Computer Resellers and Retail Stores

We received this press release from site-sponsor TechRestore:

Concord, CA - April 15, 2005 - TechRestore, Inc. announced today that they have begun a new Reseller Program for Consultants, Retail Stores and Computer Resellers to offer TechRestore's 24-hour repair and upgrade services to their customers.

By partnering with TechRestore, consultants and companies that do not currently offer hardware repairs and upgrades will immediately add to their revenue stream by reselling TechRestore's 24-hour repairs and upgrades for PowerBook, iBook and iPod products.

"During our exhibition at MacWorld Expo in San Francisco earlier this year, we met with hundreds of computer consultants and resellers that expressed interest in offering our services to their customers," said Shannon Jean, Founder and President of TechRestore. "Our new Reseller Program offers consultants and retailers a way to increase their customer revenue, retention and loyalty by offering TechRestore's repair and upgrade services."

As a TechRestore Reseller, consultants and companies may choose from a CustomerDirect or a DealerDirect relationship. The CustomerDirect program allows for the Reseller to refer their customer directly to TechRestore for all billing and interaction with the client. The DealerDirect program allows the Reseller to offer a custom branded service that is seamlessly integrated into their existing business with all billing and customer interaction handled by the Reseller. Both programs offer generous commission payments to the Reseller that are based on the gross amount of the repair or upgrade performed.

More information about the TechRestore Reseller Program and the Reseller Application are available at http://techrestore.com/reseller.

Wednesday, April 20th 2005

Mac OS X 10.3.9: Trackpad Problems Still Not Fixed?

Apple last week released Mac OS X 10.3.9, expected to be the final release in the 10.3 series, with this listed in the release notes:

Addresses slow vertical tracking and intermittent trackpad behavior on PowerBook G4 12-inch 1.5GHz, 15-inch 1.67/1.5GHz, and 17-inch 1.67GHz computers.

We were, to be frank, rather surprised by this, as we believed this was a problem that would have to be addressed via hardware. One reason for our belief in the source of this problem was that short supply of some PowerBook models had been attributed to not only strong demand, but some units being pulled off the factory lines due to the trackpad problems. With some skepticism in mind, we solicited reader feedback, and received some wholly positive reports, but mainly letters such as these:

For the record, my 3-week-old 15" PowerBook's trackpad has been just as flaky after installing the 10.3.9 update as it was before. At times it'll get stuck in scrolling mode, other times it stops responding completely, or it moves in little fits and starts. Placing my palm down on the trackpad resets it, but at times it is pretty damn annoying... And it happens pretty frequently.

---

After installing the 10.3.9 upgrade friday night, the tracking is MUCH more responsive speed-wise, horizontally and vertically. However, I still have the same static related intermittent issues when first sitting down/waking from sleep. Aside from this problem, it seems that the variable sensitivity across the pad has been fixed for motion, but not for taps. Also, I now have the problem that tapping results in significant cursor movement, resulting in clicking/selecting places that I do not intend. This was not a problem prior to the upgrade.

These are just two of many letters we got, with the common thread being that in most cases something improved, but in almost no instances were the problems completely solved. While this is pretty anecdotal when considering the number of 2005 PowerBook owners out there, it also seems that the general trend is for the speed and tracking to have improved, but the intermittent malfunctioning remains. As we've said before, we aren't electrical engineers here at PBZone, but it wouldn't surprise us if Apple has done what it could via software, but that some of the static electricity issues simply can't be resolved via software. Despite the disappointment in the extent of the 10.3.9 trackpad improvements, we do highly recommend it for everyone. There appear to be no huge horror stories surrounding it, and there's a good chance it will at least improve your trackpad's performance in some areas.

Seagate Announces 120GB Notebook Hard Drives

We reported several weeks ago that Fujitsu would be delivering 120GB hard drives for notebooks, and as is always the case, other companies were not far behind. Seagate today revamped their line of notebook hard drives with 7200 RPM offerings of up to 100GB, with the 120GB model coming in a 5400 RPM package:

Available in capacities up to 120GB, Momentus 5400.2 brings 4,500-rpm power efficiency to 5,400-rpm drives. The drive's high performance, low power consumption and robust design make it ideal for mainstream notebooks and tablet PCs.

Expect to see a 120GB drive as at least an option in the next PowerBook update.

Tuesday, April 19th 2005

MCE Announces 8x Dual-Layer SuperDrive Upgrade for iBook G3

MCE Technologies today made available a $200 slot-load SuperDrive upgrade for the iBook G3. With dual-layer support, this drive is able to burn up to 8.5 GB of data on a single side of a disc. Depending on what you're trying to do, the drive burns at the following speeds: 8X DVD-R and DVD+R, 4X DVD-RW and DVD+RW, 2.4X DVD+R dual-layer.

These drives are compatible with iTunes, Disc Burner, and Apple's DVD Player, and MCE will install them for $40, or this can be done in many cities by an authorized upgrade center.

TechRestore Offers Special Deals for PBZone Readers

Site sponsor TechRestore sent us a new list of specials for PBZone readers:

iBook G3/900 256MB Memory, 40GB Drive, CD-RW-DVD Optical Drive, 12-inch LCD Screen -- Normally $689.99, get one or more for just $619.99 when you use coupon code "MY900" during checkout
http://techrestore.com/xcart/product.php?productid=16211&cat=254&page=2

PowerBook G4/1GHz Aluminum 512MB Memory, 60GB Hard Drive, CD-RW/DVD-R SuperDrive, Airport Extreme Wireless Card, DVI Video, 17-inch LCD Screen Normally $1699.99, take $20 off when you use coupon code "BIG17" during checkout

PowerBookRestore 60GB 5400RPM 24-Hour Hard Drive Upgrade for Powerbooks and iBooks -- Normally $229, take $30 off when you use coupon code "LP60UP" when scheduling your upgrade
http://techrestore.com/xcart/product.php?productid=16160&cat=255&page=1

Monday, April 18th 2005

Apple Releases Mac OS X 10.3.9: Trackpad Issue Fixed?

Apple released Mac OS X 10.3.9 this past Friday, perhaps the final OS update for Mac OS X 10.3. This update contains a slew of improvements to a variety of OS X components, most notably the Finder, Stickies, and Safari.

As we skimmed through the release notes, though, we noticed something even more interesting for PowerBook users, and based on our email over the weekend, many of you noticed it as well:

Addresses slow vertical tracking and intermittent trackpad behavior on PowerBook G4 12-inch 1.5GHz, 15-inch 1.67/1.5GHz, and 17-inch 1.67GHz computers.

Last Thursday we reported on comments made by Apple executive Peter Oppenheimer, who stated at Apple's second quarter conference call that he believed the problem had been corrected, but gave no details as to whether this correction would come via hardware or software. With this news from the 10.3.9 release notes, though, it appears that Apple believes it has been able to fix this problem without any hardware repairs or modifications.

As for our own experience since the update, we can't say we've noticed any obvious changes yet. The trackpad on our own 2005 PowerBook has been only very intermittently misbehaving, and those have all resulted from very significant shocks (which we can't recreate via our usual sock method), so we can't confirm any permanent resolution from this update. That said, if you've noticed a marked improvement, or that your trackpad still frequently becomes unresponsive, please email us at editor (at) pbzone.com, and we'll find out if this update really is the key.

News and Notes

We hadn't seen this page on Apple's site before, which details how to get maximum battery life out of your PowerBook or iBook, as well as proper storage and maintenance. There are a lot of myths out there about batteries, particularly lithium-ion batteries, so this is a nice resource for those of you with questions.

Lastly, for those of you who missed some PowerBook news over the past week, Low End Mac's 'Book Review has a nice digest version of the relevant news and features.

Friday, April 15th 2005

RadTech Announces Tesktyl Tekmod Soft Notebook Case

RadTech has begun shipping its Tekmod soft case for 15-17" laptops. While there are dozens of producers of laptop bags suitable for PowerBooks and iBooks, the Tekmod is unique in that the case does not need to be removed. The laptop can be opened and operated, including ports and optical drives on the sides, with the case still on for added convenience.

The Tekmod runs $80, and a model suitable for smaller laptops is expected in May.

News and Notes

For those of you looking for a way to improve the ergonomics of using your laptop at a desk, Charles W. Moore has a review of the Kensington Laptop Desktop USB Laptop Stand. For $80, you too can stop looking down at your screen.

Finally, in non-portable news, rumors site Think Secret has a rundown of the expected iMac, PowerMac, and eMac upgrades coming within a few days of Tiger. If you've been looking to make a desktop purchase, hold off a few more weeks.

Thursday, April 14th 2005

Apple Discusses PowerBook Defects, PowerBook G5 in Conference Call

Apple today held its second quarter conference call, announcing profits of $290 million, and record profits and income for the quarter. Of particular interest to us is that 251,000 iBooks were shipped last quarter, an increase of 25% over the same quarter in 2004, while 211,000 PowerBooks shipped, for an impressive 34% increase over the same quarter in 2004.

The PowerBook received a fair amount of attention during the conference call, both for the effect of the present models and for the future. For those of you wanting your voices heard regarding the trackpad problems, Apple executive Peter Oppenheimer gave a response. Here is an excerpt from AppleInsider's summary:

Apple downplayed the recent and "well documented" PowerBook TrackPad issues. One Apple exec said there were some "isolated issues," but he "thinks" they have been corrected.

This isn't exactly the ringing acknowledgment many of us were hoping for, but at least it sounds like Apple is cautiously optimistic that the issues have been resolved. Only time will tell if that is truly the case, though we have personally been receiving significantly fewer emails on the subject.

Lastly, on the subject of a PowerBook G5, Apple VP Tim Cook repeated his earlier comments, giving no sign that "the mother of all thermal challenges" had become any less of an obstacle. Still, as Apple is so fond of saying, they always want to under-promise and over-deliver, and just because a G5 PowerBook isn't in the future, that doesn't mean a significant processor upgrade isn't possible.

.Mac Membership Discount

Just a brief note to say that for those of you interested in subscribing to .Mac, until May 23 membership is $70, a $30 rebate. .Mac includes the usual features of webspace, an email address, and more, not to mention expanded functionality in Tiger.

Wednesday, April 13th 2005

Tiger Set for Release on April 29th

After months of speculation and rumors, Apple has finally put everything to rest by announcing the "unleashing" of Tiger on April 29th. As with past upgrades, Tiger will cost $129, with discounts available those affiliated with academic institutions. New to Tiger is that the update will ship not on multiple CDs, but on DVD media.

Other deals are also available for those looking to update. While there were rumors of its termination, the $200 family pack is still available for households with multiple computers. Similarly, for $250 you can bag Tiger, iLife '05, and iWork, for a savings of $40.

Lastly, for those of you who have recently bought a new Mac, system purchases after April 12th are entitled to the Tiger update for only $10.

Tiger Leaving Some 'Books Behind?

Over at MacOpinion is an excellent piece for those of you using less-than-new PowerBook or iBook and looking ahead to the release of Tiger. Of greatest importance is that the Lombard will no longer be officially supported by Tiger, joining the Wallstreet on the unsupported list. Charles also gives information on how Tiger can be procured on CDs, instead of the standard DVD, for those without DVD optical drives. The form for this media exchange program can be found here in a PDF file.

Tuesday, April 12th 2005

Computer and Electronics Powerhouses Team Up for Better Laptop Batteries

As computers get faster and more powerful in storage, memory, graphics, and general processing, maintaining reasonable battery life has regularly been a problem, though Apple's PowerBooks and iBooks have generally fared well in this regard. Still, it seems that new battery technology to combat these issues is finally creeping towards practicality, as the next step beyond the typical lithium-ion batteries.

To that end of better battery life, IBM and Sanyo have teamed up to take a cue from the auto industry and develop a hybrid battery. Using a mixture of the standard lithium-ion batteries and a replaceable cartridge of oxygen and hydrogen, current prototypes are reported to give eight hours of battery life, though without specifying in what application.

If eight hours of battery life in a modern laptop is possible, that would, of course, be a tremendous step forward. Additionally, the sheer fact that so many companies are supposed to be working on this technology, such as NEC, Toshiba, Hitachi, and Fujitsu, makes it clear that hybrid fuel cell technology is viewed as having a significant amount of potential for consumer electronics. Still, there are significant questions and concerns to be resolved before there is any chance of this technology becoming nearly as ubiquitous as standard lithium-ion batteries. As far as plain economics go, the cost of the cartridges for both production and for the consumer must be reasonable. The current prototype also adds a significant amount of bulk to existing laptops, and would require significant slimming to appeal to most users. Finally, safety concerns of taking hydrogen onboard an airplane, for instance, would certainly need to be addressed, as well as other environmental questions. While this concept is very intriguing, whether it is truly practical and worthwhile in the next few years is definitely uncertain.

MCE Ships 100GB Expansion Bay Drives

For those of you looking for maximum storage capabilities in your Wallstreet, Lombard, or Pismo PowerBook G3, MCE has begun shipping a 100GB drive designed for the expansion bays in these models. Using a 4200 RPM hard drive, no drivers or third-party software is necessary. The 100GB drive will run you $280, with smaller sizes also available.

Monday, April 11th 2005

The MiniBook: Case and Form Factor

We recently discussed some ideas for the oft-rumored new portable from Apple. This product, dubbed by many the MiniMac, is generally imagined to slot in as the portable equivalent of the Mini, that is, an economic introduction to the world of PowerBooks and iBooks. Alternatively, a higher-end portable that focuses on compactness for the traveling professional, similar to the PowerBook 2400, has also been conjectured. Of course, these qualities are not mutually exclusive, as a portable that has had the premium features removed in favor of sound functionality in a small form factor could also serve as an entry-level product to some.

Of course, it's hard to come up with a list of features and be able to peg where the actual price willcome at. Look at the Cube and the Mac mini, for two examples of products that show a fair discrepancy between the actual price and what most would expect. Still, our favorite projection of the MiniBook is something that could very well come in at a price under $1500, and perhaps significantly less. While the hopes for the form factor will obviously vary radically by what each user thinks will best complement their hardware, our thinking is something between a typical sub-portable and PDA, something like this:

Yes, this is a Sony PictureBook, a product so popular it doesn't appear to be sold anymore. The PictureBook is actually somewhat reminiscent of the Cube: quirky, but not impractical, and more expensive than it should be. Looking at some old prices, it appears the PictureBooks sold for over $2000. LCD prices are much lower now than at any other time, though, and some of that high price could have resulted from using the then-new Crusoe processor from Transmeta. Replacing the Crusoe with a G3 or G4, and with current LCD prices, could likely cut hundreds of dollars off that price from the outset.

Of course, for those looking for a true Apple PDA or desktop replacement, this is likely not going to meet your needs. Still, we think there are a lot of positive qualities to this form factor. The major advantage is that the keyboard is quite functional, even if not full-size, making it suitable for even serious typing. By going with the wide screen and removing the palm rest areas, though, the portability is still incredible. As anyone who has tried to use a laptop in coach on modern airplanes knows, a short display is invaluable for when the seat in front of you inevitably reclines. This form potentially allows performance equivalent to even recent laptops, in a size and weight that makes it convenient for travel, the conference room, or tossing in a school bag.

There are sacrifices that come with such a product, though. As we said, this is not a PDA to keep in your pocket, nor is it a modern 2400. The closest comparison we could make is a modern and expanded eMate, a product that straddles segments, similar to the Sony PictureBook and Clie. An internal optical drive is likely not an option, nor is a high-end processor or graphics card, if battery life, price, and heat are important. Still, for internet and productivity applications, it could be quite adequately powered while preserving the battery life, price, and cool temperature.

As we've said, this wouldn't be the perfect product for everyone, but given the proper toughness, we believe it could be successful with many students and schools, and for those professionals who already have a desktop Mac or PowerBook.

Widescreen iBooks Coming?

The Register is reporting on news out of Taiwan that Apple has arranged for the production of a 15.4" widescreen iBook in 2006. Keep in mind, though, that these sources have regularly been incorrect in fairly significant details, such as confusing the iBook and PowerBook, or, as the article notes, their expectation for a PowerBook G5 in this quarter. We'd personally be quite surprised to see a 15" widescreen iBook, even in 2006.

Friday, April 8th 2005

MacNet2 Weighs in on the MiniBook

Since we've been discussing the possibility of the MiniBook (which has taken over as the name for the rumored Apple sub-notebook or consumer portable), we felt it only fair to show one more columnist's take.

We generally like the specs and reasoning given, and think that if Apple were to make a MiniBook, it would probably be along these lines: not designed as an entry-level desktop replacement, but as something for the professional who finds the existing options too large. The one tweak to the proposed specs we might give is a less substantial hard drive being acceptable. A MiniBook would not need to carry aaround an iMovie project or a large record collection, and something smaller would generally be fine.

For those of you interested in this sort of game of prediction, we'll be writing more about it for Monday, focusing on the possible form factor and case for the MiniBook.

PowerBook, iBook Win Magazine Rankings

MacNN is reporting on an article in the U.K. magazine Which? which ranks various categories of laptops, pitting Apple laptops against similar PC offerings. In the desktop replacement category, the 15" PowerBook took top owners, while the 14" iBook was crowned king of the entry-level arena.

Thursday, April 7th 2005

Apple Working on New Mobile Product?

AppleInsider is reporting on a new contract between Apple and Alphamosaic, designers of a powerful multimedia chip for use in mobile devices. Now, while we've been discussing Apple coming out with a more compact PowerBook or iBook, or possibly even something closer to the old eMate, the odds are pretty good that this is simply for new iPods. Still, the potential remains for this relationship with Alphamosaic to lead to any number of things, perhaps even something none of us have thought of yet. One estimate puts the earliest release of whatever comes of this to be in late 2005 or early 2006.

RAM Slots Reportedly Failing in New PowerBooks

We saw this report over at MacFixIt that some people are finding one of their RAM slots is not registering the installed memory. This is possibly something that only occurs after some period of use, not necessarily straight from the box. If you go to the About This Mac menu and see less RAM showing up than you know is installed, we recommend running the Hardware Test CD and giving Apple a call. For those of you have this affliction, please email us at editor (at) pbzone.com so we can share your experiences.

Searching for a Silent Laptop

In the latest PowerBook Mystique column from Charles W. Moore, the history of PowerBook noise levels is traced in some detail. We've received numerous complaints from AlBook owners regarding problems with excessive fan noise, so we thought this piece would be of some interest.

Wednesday, April 6th 2005

Apple Sub-Notebook Revisited

Not long ago we discussed an Apple sub-notebook. On Low End Mac today, Dan Knight offers his opinion on the subject. His ideas for a smaller PowerBook seem quite reasonable, as the strategy is largely to give the Apple touch to the PC model, and show one path Apple could take without being too radical. The suggestion to increase the screen size of the iBooks seems unlikely, though, as the larger screens of the PowerBooks are a major component of their premium status.

Comparing Screen Brightness of the PowerBook and other LCDs

The PowerPage has been updating with reader reports on their empirical comparisons of screen brightness between PowerBooks and other LCDs. With new technology from the likes of Sony providing increasingly-bright LCDs, this has been one of the sore points among some PowerBook users, and something that Apple will perhaps have to address shortly in their standalone LCD offerings, as well. If you have an opinion or information on this matter, we'd be interested to hear about it, and can be reached at editor (at) pbzone.com

News and Notes

We're continuing to collect reports about problems with the screen latch on the new PowerBooks, sleep issues, and in particular updated trackpad reports. If you have anything to contribute, please email us at editor (at) pbzone.com.

Tuesday, April 5th 2005

Sleep and Latch Defect Reports

It's been a very slow news day, but we're trying to follow up on a few reports we've received about issues in some PowerBooks with the button to open the PowerBook not working properly, and also odd behavior by PowerBooks during sleep. The few reports we've heard so far have been in the 2005 PowerBooks, but we're looking for information from all of the Aluminum PowerBooks. If you have any reports regarding these issues, please email us at editor (at) pbzone.com.

Monday, April 4th 2005

Timbuk2 Medium Classic Messenger Bag Reviewed

Following up our review of the small version of the bag, we have posted the review for the medium version of Timbuk2's Classic Messenger Bag, for those with a 15" PowerBook, or who are simply looking for a little more space.

MaxUpgrades Releases MaxProtect Carrying Bag

We received word from MaxUpgrades that they've released their new MaxProtect carrying bag, in sizes suitable for every size of iBook and PowerBook. The MaxProtect case includes foam padding on all sides to protect your iBook or PowerBook, with zippers placed so that they never touch the PowerBook or iBook inside. Prices range from $25-$35.

Sonnet Reduces Price on PowerBook Upgrade

We know we have a lot of readers who are still using their Wallstreets, so we thought we'd pass along the news that Sonnet has reduced the price on its 500 MHz G3 upgrade for the PowerBook G3 Series. The original price of $250 has been cut to $200, and more information can be found here.

Friday, April 1st 2005

Timbuk2 Small Classic Messenger Bag Reviewed

As promised, we have the review up for the small-sized Classic Messenger Bag from Timbuk2. For those of you looking for a bag for a larger-than-12" PowerBook or iBook, we'll have a review of the next size up next week.

Slot-load SuperDrive and Combo Drive Upgrades for Pismo and Lombard PowerBooks Available

Site sponsor PowerBook Medic sent us this news that we're sure will excite a lot of readers looking to upgrade their Lombards and Pismos:

PowerbookMedic.com today announced the release of the highly anticipated slot loading Superdrive and Combo drive for the Powerbook G3 Series Lombard and Pismo.

Now too, can the G3 Powerbooks have the ability to burn like a G4!

The drives are available from the respective links below:

Superdrive (DVD / CD Burner) Upgrade:

http://www.powerbookmedic.com/xcart1/customer/product.php?productid=16646&ca t=251&page=1

Combo Drive (CD Burner) Upgrade:

http://www.powerbookmedic.com/xcart1/customer/product.php?productid=16512&ca t=251&page=1

Any questions regarding these new products or any products should be sent to sales@powerbookmedic.com.

Toshiba Announces New Lithium Ion Batteries

Battery technology in recent years hasn't exactly matched the leaps in other areas of computing technology, but Toshiba's announcement sounds very promising. While it's unclear if it's overall capacity would be a significant improvement over what's currently found in laptops, the ability to recharge to 80% in one minute, and the increased durability over many recharge cycles, makes this a very exciting announcement. Before throwing out your existing batteries, though, keep in mind that initial applications for this technology are for hybrid vehicles and other heavy-duty applications. Within a few years, though, it seems inevitable that these batteries will find their way into laptops.

News and Notes

Just one quick announcement, and that is that the March news has been archived, so if you missed anything from the last month, you'll find it there.

If you have any stories, feedback, etc. to share over the weekend, email us at editor (at) pbzone.com.