The 'Book Review 2001.10.01

Except as noted, prices are in US dollars, bold links are to outside sites, and regular links lead to 'Book profiles on Low End Mac.

• PowerLogix Drops Price on 500 MHz BlueChip Upgrade for WallStreet
• Prototype TiBook "Art Case" Unveiled
• New iBook (Dual USB) I/O Ports Cap and Palm Rest Pads
• Kensington TripleTreks Flapover Case for $15
• G4 Eclipse Case by Tom Bihn
• Bargain 'Books

PowerLogix Drops Price on 500 MHz BlueChip Upgrade for WallStreet

The PowerLogix BlueChip G3 500/250/1 MB has trimmed $100, dropping the G3/500 from $599 to $499. BlueChip upgrades are compatible with the Apple PowerBook G3 Series I and II (a.k.a. WallStreet). This upgrade has been popular among those who want to edit video in their PowerBook but have found the processor demands of this software overwhelming their stock processor.

Once the BlueChip is installed it puts higher-end more desktop-level tasks within reach. Other computing challenges that are met by the BlueChip G3 upgrade include digital audio development and editing, QuickTime editing and graphics editing.

Prototype TiBook "Art Case" Unveiled

This compact "art case" for the Titanium PowerBook G4 may soon be available for sale.

The computer can be operated from within the case, and the case acts as a heat sink to keep one's lap cooler as well. The DVD drive, PC Card, and power adapter ports are easily accessible and functional when the computer is inside the case. It currently weighs about 3 pounds (in comparison with other aluminum cases, the Zero Halliburton Z5 is 5.6 lbs and the Dr. Bott TiCase is about 4.5 lbs) and is very stiff. Target weight for the final case is 2.5-3 lbs. It offers good protection for the corners and edges of the 'Book while in transit.

The case is made from machined aluminum. All fasteners are aircraft-type stainless steel machine screws, and all hinges and pivots move on brass bushings. The handle is made from Delrin plastic, a material that feels very nice in the hand. The final case will be fully lined with natural cork to minimize the chance of scratching your PowerBook.

These will sell for between $250-300, and each will be hand-built and numbered. Production will likely be limited to a few hundred cases, maybe a thousand at the very most if there is enough interest.

Features to be added include a pouch for goodies that sits on the outside/top part of the case and connectors for a shoulder strap. For true minimalists, there is planned a pouch for the power adapter that fits on the shoulder strap, thus keeping the case thin and flat, and perhaps an optional clipboard-clip on the flat top plate (in lieu of an outside pouch) so someone could use the case as a mobile lap-desk for writing.

Feedback is solicited. If you have any inquiries or interest, contact: selliott@mac.com

New iBook (Dual USB) I/O Ports Cap and Palm Rest Pads

Protect the ports on the new iBook (Dual USB) with an I/O Ports Cap. Keep dust, crud, and objects out of your iBook's ports. The I/O Ports Cap is molded from a translucent, flexible, and tough plastic. The iBook I/O Ports Cap is very light and won't break. Just snap it on and off or "peel" it back to use the ports. $14.99.

Protect your iBook's glossy white finish from scratches with these inexpensive Palm Rest Pads. They are made from leatherette and are available in an iBook-matching light gray color. In addition, palm rest pads are available to protect the finish of your PowerBook G4 Titanium and G3. $9.99-11.99.

For more information, visit Macs Only!

Kensington TripleTreks Flapover Case for $15

Computers4sure is selling the Kensington TripleTreks Flapover Case for the amazing price of $14.99 (plus $5.95 for UPS ground shipping) while quantities last. No backorders. These cases normally sell in the $55-75 range.

Kensington's TripleTreks is more than just a computer bag; it is a sturdy, nylon, multipurpose carrying bag with a unique, removable computer compartment. When it's in, your laptop is protected against shocks and jolts. When it's out, you have additional free space to store other important essentials.

Features

• Large outside flap for easy access to inside organization panel. Two side pockets for accessories.
• Heavy-duty engineering includes shock-absorbing honeycomb frame, industrial rivets, box stitching, self-repairing zippers, and reinforced webbing.
• Outside shell is high-density nylon with twice-coated polyurethane backing for long-lasting durability.
• SoftGrip™ handle and adjustable shoulder strap provide all-day carrying comfort.
• File compartments organize and store folders and documents.
• Water bottle grip and outer sleeve pocket for quick access to water, newspapers, umbrellas, magazines, etc.
• Quick access pockets for pens, pencils, business cards, airline tickets, and more.

G4 Eclipse Case by Tom Bihn

The new G4 Eclipse is a compact, micro-briefcase designed to take advantage of the G4's slight size and light weight. Why carry around a big bag when your laptop is so small?

The G4 Eclipse is designed to fit your Titanium PowerBook G4 like a glove with the same bombproof protection of the 2001 Tom Bihn Lap Dog. Cradled in soft foam padding, your TiBook hangs suspended in a corrugated plastic insert. The top zips shut with a #9 YKK zipper, and under the buckled flap there is a substantial front pouch for your power supply, cables and/or external drive, etc. Inside the front pouch, an organizer has pockets for your PDA, cell phone & pens, plus a snaphook for your keys. The entire front of the pouch is a zippered pocket. On the back there is a simple, open-top pocket for a file or a magazine. Padded handles and optional shoulder strap. Slips nicely into either compartment of the Brain Bag (does not snap into place).

Features:

• Available in Basic Black with Silver
• 1000 Denier Cordura®.
• Interior Dimensions: approximately 13-1/2" x 10" x 1-1/4".
• Exterior Dimensions: approximately 14" x 11-1/2" x 4".
• Weight: approximately 1.5 lbs.
• Price: $85

Small Dog Electronics

• PowerBook G4/500, 512/20 GB/DVD, factory refurbished, $2,689
• PowerBook G3/400 (Lombard), 128/6 GB/DVD/56K/SCSI, used, $1,429
• PowerBook G3/400 (Lombard), 320/6 GB/DVD/ZIP/56K/SCSI, no closing latch, used, $1,429

MacResQ/MacWorks

• PowerBook 1400cs/133, 32/1.3 GB/floppy, $379.99

Power Max

• iBook 500 MHz, 64 MB/10 GB/CD, factory refurbished, $1,188
• PowerBook 3400c/200 48 MB/2 GB/CD/33.6K/Targus Case, used, $699
• PowerBook G3 233 MHz 32 MB/2 GB/CD/56K/14.1", no power adapter or battery, used, $699
• PowerBook G3 233 MHz 32 MB/2 GB/CD/FD/12.1", used, $739
• PowerBook G3 233 MHz 32 MB/2 GB/CD/14.1", used/open box, $788 (several at this price in various configurations)

No indication whether these are cacheless "MainStreet" or better "WallStreet" model.

MacSelect

• PowerBook G3/400 (Lombard), 64 MB/6 GB/DVD/56K, 14.1", 90 Day Apple Warranty, Refurb, $1,549

Expercom

• PowerBook G4/400, 128/10 GB/DVD/56k/15.1", Factory Refurbished, Apple 1 year Warranty, $1,949

This is the best price I've seen yet on a refurbished TiBook.