Powerbook 15.4" Details?

[MacRumors]

Macnews.net.tc claims (http://mac.fryke.com/cgi-bin/blosxom.cgi) to have some details of upcoming Powerbook 15.4" updates:

The 15.4" screen to be used in the machine will reduce the resolution to 1280*800 pixels. The new PB15 will have Bluetooth and AirPort Extreme and, aren't we lucky, the illuminated keyboard.

15.4 inch Powerbook rumors were spawned by this Digitimes (http://www.macrumors.com/pages/2003/01/20030114224328.shtml) article which indicates that Compal will be providing 15.4" screens for Apple in 2003.

Accuracy of this source is unclear.

[Nermal]

1280x800? That's a bit of a downgrade! (previous was 1280x864). However that appears to be in 16:10 aspect now rather than the 3:2 used by the older PowerBook, so I guess this makes sense.

[yzedf]

so this guy is stating what we have been saying for how long now...? ;)

[Mattski]

This update has to happen. Who would buy a 15" at the moment???

[MrMacMan]

Screens is spelled wrong.

And why make the resolution smaller?

No real reason... Well I hope apple updates this model a little more than bluetooth and extreme... :D

[Hemingray]

I'm assuming (hoping) these new 15.4" PowerBooks will also sport the new Aluminum enclosure? Those paint flakes are bad news. I addressed that issue at one of the Apple Stores and the saleslady sort of side-stepped it. :D

[G4scott]

Hmm... I'm going to go to college in the fall of 2003, and am looking for a replacement. Although the 12" PowerBook does seem nice, and meets my needs, I think it might be better to have the 15.4"... The bigger screen would be useful, and I don't think they 'd charge much over $2000 for them... Maybe $2200 or so. It'd be a hard choice...

[Eric-C]

Goodie! I can't wait to switch!

[dabirdwell]

any confirmation on this Arn?

[daRAT]

So this is a screen size and networking updates. Still not bad :) Wonder what the cost is going to be? I could be in the market of a Apple Pbook.

[Mr. MacPhisto]

The 15" Powerbooks desperately need an update. They look cheap and shoddy when set next to the 12" PB in the Apple Store. The double hinge looks weak compared to the single, sturdy one on the iBook and new PBs, and the Titanium doesn't feel or look as good as the aluminum. Funny thing is, the TiBook looked amazing before Apple released the new PBs, but the new designs just blew them away. If the new 15" PBs are introduced, my guess is we'll see new iBooks by summer - maybe with a rumored colored aluminum case.

[fred_lj]

I still think the 15" TiBooks are beautiful machines, especially since I just bought a used 867 TiBook. It will be my first ever G4-based machine after this Pismo I'm on now! Indeed, the AlBooks are beyond gorgeous -- but some publishing pros on the go will want to boot into OS9, something the AlBooks can't claim.

[iAndy]

Originally posted by Macrumors
Macnews.net.tc claims (http://mac.fryke.com/cgi-bin/blosxom.cgi) to have some details of upcoming Powerbook 15.4" updates:... OK call me a cynic folks, but the Macnews.net.tc item contained absolutely NOTHING that hasn't been discussed to death on this board a thousand times already. The one newsworthy thing that they might have contributed was an approximate date/guesstimate for the new release of the PB15.4, but instead they resorted to the lame title "Soon:Powerbooks". Great reporting Macnews.net.tc, now I know why I never bothered bookmarking your website...

[Zband]

I've been waiting to upgrade my pismo 400 for a couple of cycles now but with the introduction of the Al 17' and the 12'' and the dreaded slower GeForce video cards I will be forced to pick up and older Ti with the Ati radeon in it. I think the glow in the dark keyboard is kick ass- but not worth the slower scrolling geforce cards. I am miffed as to why apple choose these cards in the newer machines.

Oh well- I suspect there wil be a rush to pick up the older Ti giga hertz models after the 15.4's get released.

[jholzner]

Maybe the reason they are waiting to update it is so that there is at least one powerbook that can still boot OS 9.

[Stelliform]

Originally posted by jholzner
Maybe the reason they are waiting to update it is so that there is at least one powerbook that can still boot OS 9.

I can't find anything on Apple's page about the AluBooks not booting 9. The Power Macs definitly do not boot 9 (Except the sole os 9 system) Does anybody know if this is true or not?

[john123]

No, no, no, no, no....if a new model is introduced, IT WILL NOT BOOT IN OS 9.

That's why SO MANY PEOPLE -- like me -- bought the current model.

Apple has said -- repeatedly -- that all new Macs introduced this year will boot in OS X *ONLY*.

[moby1]

What makes me believe this rumor is the suggestion that there will be no 867. That makes sense and I was wondering if that'd be the way Apple goes.

What worries me is that combo drive model will be above 2299 and there'll be too big a gap between it and the 12".

The 2299 price point is very attractive but then I can't see the SuperDrive model above 2699. That leaves a big gap to the 3299 17".

Well, we'll see in a few weeks.


moby1

[ChoMomma]

I've been powering around on my Ti800 for awhile now happy as hell!! But... I'd be inclined to swap it out for a 1Ghz Ti with that 64MB Radeon 9000 ;) and maybe a Superdrive :D hehe!!

I'm waiting till they hit the sweet point of $1800-$2200.



my .02 cents.

ps.
never had any paint flake problems and I really use my TiBook constantly... no "special" sleeve or anything like that.

[moby1]

Originally posted by Stelliform


I can't find anything on Apple's page about the AluBooks not booting 9. The Power Macs definitly do not boot 9 (Except the sole os 9 system) Does anybody know if this is true or not?

I have the 12" PB. Apple's first OS X only Mac.

Bye, bye 9. We hardly knew ye.

I'm actually thinking of removing the System Folder and Applications (Mac OS 9) folders but then I'm stuck in the future. ;)

moby1

[MacBandit]

Originally posted by john123
No, no, no, no, no....if a new model is introduced, IT WILL NOT BOOT IN OS 9.

That's why SO MANY PEOPLE -- like me -- bought the current model.

Apple has said -- repeatedly -- that all new Macs introduced this year will boot in OS X *ONLY*.

Actually Apple backed off on that and said that some of them would be able to boot into OS9 but the absolute cut off would be July.

[Glossybear]

Here is why I think the new powerbook is on its way soon.

I work at University of California at Santa Cruz, and for about a month before the October 7th updates to the portable line, our campus bookstore was blowing out the 800 PB for WAY under retail.

Now they are running a special on the 1Ghz PB w/Superdrive. 2200. with 3 years of applecare.

I figure they get deals from apple when they are trying to lower stocks.

So I figure march we'll find out about the new 15 incher.

Aluminium, Bluetooth, airportX, Superdrive, and DDR are pretty much given right?

But here is my question. will we see speed bumps? Will the have a 1Ghz and 1.25Ghz option? And if so, what does that mean for the 17 inch? does it get bumped too?

And will the iBook get an update/re-design?

[imagick]

Originally posted by Glossybear
But here is my question. will we see speed bumps? Will the have a 1Ghz and 1.25Ghz option? And if so, what does that mean for the 17 inch? does it get bumped too?

I don't think there will be a speed bump - 15" AluBooks will get 1 GHz CPUs (some rumor-sites state that there wont even be a 867 version). And that is to keep the 17" things interesting.
But I think we get enough new features to help us over it. :D I personally am satisfied with the speed of my Ti667 but I desperately want the new casing (and the glowing keyboard ;) )

I think the next speed increase will come with the new Motorola-G4s that most likely need less power and will go up to 1.42 or so GHz.

[JBracy]

Originally posted by john123
No, no, no, no, no....if a new model is introduced, IT WILL NOT BOOT IN OS 9.

That's why SO MANY PEOPLE -- like me -- bought the current model.

Apple has said -- repeatedly -- that all new Macs introduced this year will boot in OS X *ONLY*.

Actually that's not quite correct. While it is true that the new PowerMacs, and PowerBooks won't boot 9, apparently the new iMacs will.

Basically anything with a new motherboard design, will be X only. And as Steve actually mentioned in his Keynote - The new PB's are X only.

[stewartv]

I hope they don't redesign the hinge...all the cords coming out both sides is LAME!!!

[NicoMan]

Originally posted by stewartv
I hope they don't redesign the hinge...all the cords coming out both sides is LAME!!!
It's pretty much a given that the hinge is going to be changed. I know that aesthetically it is not cool to have the wires on the side. But this is not a desktop, and for access it is way better to have the sockets on the side. You are supposed to carry a laptop around (at least be able to) and having the ports at the back is NOT convenient. Besides, wires or no wires, those machines are still beautiful.

NicoMan

[NicoMan]

Originally posted by iAndy
[/SIZE] OK call me a cynic folks, but the Macnews.net.tc item contained absolutely NOTHING that hasn't been discussed to death on this board a thousand times already. The one newsworthy thing that they might have contributed was an approximate date/guesstimate for the new release of the PB15.4, but instead they resorted to the lame title "Soon:Powerbooks". Great reporting Macnews.net.tc, now I know why I never bothered bookmarking your website...
Exactly. There is another thread (6 pages long) called '15.4 inch Powerbooks' where all this has been discussed extensively. For all I know that 'rumour' site could have been spitting back what is on that thread. What is the point?...

NicoMan

[donshank]

resolution downgrade?

my TiBook 15" (one year old) is native 1152x768. the new resolution is an upgrade for me.

[powerbook]

Some of my thougts...

http://www.macgo.net/forum/showthread.php?s=&threadid=934

:D

[backspinner]

Originally posted by stewartv
I hope they don't redesign the hinge...all the cords coming out both sides is LAME!!!
I have a Powerbook with everything on the back, and I don't like it. The power entry is easy accessable, but the others are not. Ever tried to unplug the network while the powerbook is opened? It is almost not possible. And plugging in a mouse or something is always "searching in the dark" for the correct hole. I wished the slots are on the side for my pbook. But not on the right, on the left since I'm right handed and the connectors would be in my way indeed if they are on the right.

[recon]

G'day everyone

Here goes my first post. I have a decision to make on a laptop.

I currently use Photoshop, Illustrator, Deamweaver
about 30-40% of the time on old faithful PM G3 MiniTower 300MHz.
Other software, Entourage, IE, Word, FileMaker etc.

I originally considered purchasing a desktop and the laptop
later on as I need the portability for customer visits.

But thought I should go with the laptop now,
while waiting for the 970 desktop units.

I cannot afford the PB 17" so that leaves me the PB 12"
and upcoming PB15.4" and the iBook line.

The laptop will be used with a VGA monitor now, and a
flat screen later on.

What issues would I run into with the video card?

Which laptop configuration do you see as best
for my needs?

A friend told me that i should wait for the G4 iBooks
as they will have a better price.


Appreciate your comments and advice.

Raymond

[jg3]

Originally posted by recon
G'day everyone

Here goes my first post. I have a decision to make on a laptop.

...

I originally considered purchasing a desktop and the laptop
later on as I need the portability for customer visits.

One slightly off-topic post deserves another. In future posts, let the text flow on its own - you don't have to hit return every time the line you are typing reaches the far side of the text box. I don't understand why people don't realize this; I find it terribly annoying.

[NicoMan]

Originally posted by recon
But thought I should go with the laptop now,
while waiting for the 970 desktop units.
Well as much as I would like to see a 970 on my desk (or under it...) right now, I think we are still a long way away from seeing these at reasonable prices in a Mac. Especially if you are using those Photshop, etc... apps intensively and make a living out of it, get yourself a power mac dual 1.25 or something. They are fast (especially compared to your old comp), reliable, and available NOW. That is a good year of productive use before the 970 become a viable option (if ever). Now for the laptop... I don't know what sort of use you want to make of it. And you can always buy it later.

Besides, if you buy a PowerMac with a 20" Apple or Formac screen, you can always resell the mac in a year's time for a 50% (or less) loss or so and get yourself the new 970, if you really can't live without its extra oomph, when it comes out to use with your beautiful 20"...

NicoMan

[NicoMan]

Originally posted by jg3


One slightly off-topic post deserves another. In future posts, let the text flow on its own - you don't have to hit return every time the line you are typing reaches the far side of the text box. I don't understand why people don't realize this; I find it terribly annoying.

Agreed. But chill, it is his first post...

NicoMan

[mdeschenes]

Originally posted by jg3

One slightly off-topic post deserves another. In future posts, let the text flow on its own - you don't have to hit return every time the line you are typing reaches the far side of the text box. I don't understand why people don't realize this; I find it terribly annoying.
____________________________________________________

Odd that some people find it necessary to critique writing styles. Being a "newbie"myself, I had not realized that strict protocols had to be adhered to in these regards. I like to browse these posts for their information and advice, not for style and tips on grammatical structure.

These sites will continue to flourish as long as "newbies" like us can participate without having to be "shot down" on moog points. Unless of course, the "established" crowd would rather keep it exclusive. As a newbie, I am still learning the ropes as I am not very well versed with the internet and all the "options" for scripting. I will do better!.....promise.

Mike.

[trebblekicked]

Originally posted by recon
The laptop will be used with a VGA monitor now, and a flat screen later on.What issues would I run into with the video card?

Which laptop configuration do you see as best
for my needs?



welcome! i own a tibook 1ghz, Superdrive. VGA monitor connect to the DVI port via an adapter privoded by Apple. No worries there. The current TiBook has the raedon9000M in it, which has been excellent for me.

basically, your choice is FW800/AirPort Xtreme vs. OS9. IF you need OS9, buy now. Remember that scanner and printer support is better in OS9 than OSX in many respects.

[AidenShaw]

http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=86209

The following is a list of Macintosh computer models released by Apple that only start up in Mac OS X.

PowerBook (12-inch)
PowerBook (17-inch)
Power Mac G4 (FW 800)
iMac (Flat Panel) serial number xx305xxxxxx or later
iMac (17-inch 1 GHz)

[ChoMomma]

Originally posted by backspinner

I have a Powerbook with everything on the back, and I don't like it. The power entry is easy accessable, but the others are not. Ever tried to unplug the network while the powerbook is opened? It is almost not possible. And plugging in a mouse or something is always "searching in the dark" for the correct hole. I wished the slots are on the side for my pbook. But not on the right, on the left since I'm right handed and the connectors would be in my way indeed if they are on the right.

I have a Ti800 and I have no problems accessing the ports on the back. If you look through the gap under the display while hooking up mice and such you can see the icons on the back plate. That is usually what I use to guide me when I hook up my wired devices.


I just want a slightly better video card and a superdrive. I don't need airport extreme right now. firewire 800 sounds nice.. but I wouldn't be able to afford to buy any new firewire devices llike that right now anyway.

[grimmace]

Originally posted by recon
G'day everyone

Here goes my first post. I have a decision to make on a laptop.

I currently use Photoshop, Illustrator, Deamweaver
about 30-40% of the time on old faithful PM G3 MiniTower 300MHz.
Other software, Entourage, IE, Word, FileMaker etc.

I originally considered purchasing a desktop and the laptop
later on as I need the portability for customer visits.

But thought I should go with the laptop now,
while waiting for the 970 desktop units.

I cannot afford the PB 17" so that leaves me the PB 12"
and upcoming PB15.4" and the iBook line.

The laptop will be used with a VGA monitor now, and a
flat screen later on.

The 12" laptop cant attach to any apple display at the moment. It has no dvi support. You would have to purchase a different brand of flat panel monitor. Also, if you are doing design work, I wouldn't go with such a small monitor. As you know, you will need space for your tools. You'll be scrolling around too much. That's my take on it as a designer.



What issues would I run into with the video card?

Which laptop configuration do you see as best
for my needs?

A friend told me that i should wait for the G4 iBooks
as they will have a better price.


Appreciate your comments and advice.

Raymond

[jamilecrire]

Originally posted by Mattski
This update has to happen. Who would buy a 15" at the moment???

I would for one.
1) It has all I need and it runs OS 9 (nostalgia).
2) The DDR is pointless since the FSB is still 133.
3) Airport Extreme does nothing for me since I"ve got a 802.11b hub (D-Link) and even if I could get 54Mbps it is pointless since Cable/DSL is only 10Mbit anyway (802.11b is 11Mbit).
4) It's 1GHz which is the same as the 3300 17"
5) It has a DVDR/CDRW (same as others)
6) If you go to Toms Hardware you'll see a comparison of the ATI 9000 vs the nVidia Geforce 440 Go (the nVidia gets its as kicked). If the new one had a Geforce 460 Go I'd consider it but as it stands the video is a downgrade.
7) I'm sure there are more but it's early...

[Pablo]

The reason I'm waiting (for either 17" availability, or the new 15") is mainly due to the materials and the illuminated keyboard.

I could probably do without the illuminated keyboard, but I don't believe I could live with the poor WiFi range of the TiBook. Not to mention the complaints about the paint flaking...

[Hulot]

Originally posted by ChoMomma


[...]

I just want a slightly better video card and a superdrive. I don't need airport extreme right now. firewire 800 sounds nice.. but I wouldn't be able to afford to buy any new firewire devices llike that right now anyway.

I wonder how much of a difference it will make that
the new PowerBook has a ATA/100 disk. Well, I am
assuming the new model has it.

[Rocketman]

Originally posted by AidenShaw
http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=86209

The following is a list of Macintosh computer models released by Apple that only start up in Mac OS X.

PowerBook (12-inch)
PowerBook (17-inch)
Power Mac G4 (FW 800)
iMac (Flat Panel) serial number xx305xxxxxx or later
iMac (17-inch 1 GHz)

This should be in the FAQ.

[jiholl]

Curious, I will use Powerbook at home and use in kitchen or on couch occasionally....does anyone think that the 17 inch will be too big for occassional use on couch...better to wait for 15...price of both is high, but with ceratin deals out there right now (like Amazon $200 coupon and no sales tax, 17 is about same price as 15 Ti 1 ghz (I am assuming that if you bought 15 at Apple Store and had to pay tax)????quandry? go for 17 or will 15.4 be enough and more portable?

[TheMightyG]

Interesting:

For what its worth, our campus store just dropped the price of the 15" Superdrive TiBook to $2479.00 yesterday. It had been sitting at $2599.00 since the announcement of the 12" and 17" PB in January. In the past, price drops from our campus store have reliably preceeded new models...1-2 weeks.

That being said, I would still be surprised at new 15" PB until the 17" starts shipping end of March/early April.

[claughery]

What school do you go to? and when exactly did they lower the prices???

[tgrundke]

This is all quite interesting. I'm sure there are many potential configurations that can be sold, and much is hinging on the 17" PowerBook and when those puppies finally do ship.

If that is indeed the case, I would suspect that Mid-March to April to be a good timeframe for an update to the 15" PowerBook. At the moment I don't think it will entail much price shuffling and you'll see the current price points of $2299 and $2799. Ideally we'd see a reduction to $2199 and $2699, but to justify the 17" (if the 15" gest the 17"s specs) Apple would have to lower the price accordingly.

Maybe Apple will surprise us and release 15.4" PowerBook at $2199 and $2699 and we'll see the 17" drop to $3099. I'm skeptical, but I think this year is going to break a lot of "Apple traditions".

[mcrain]

Originally posted by mdeschenes
Odd that some people find it necessary to critique writing styles. Being a "newbie"myself, I had not realized that strict protocols had to be adhered to in these regards. I like to browse these posts for their information and advice, not for style and tips on grammatical structure.

These sites will continue to flourish as long as "newbies" like us can participate without having to be "shot down" on moog points. Unless of course, the "established" crowd would rather keep it exclusive. As a newbie, I am still learning the ropes as I am not very well versed with the internet and all the "options" for scripting. I will do better!.....promise.

Mike.

Hey, just be thankful you didn't have to go through the "trial by fire" that the rest of us had to go through when Alphatech roamed these boards. He was merciless with newbies.

As for you and your faux pas, don't worry about it. Welcome to MR, enjoy your stay, and don't forget to buy a mug.

I'd love a 15.4" aluminum PB, but I won't give up my 1gig tibook until something really special comes along, or some new peripheral comes along that requires the FW800.

[john123]

Originally posted by MacBandit


Actually Apple backed off on that and said that some of them would be able to boot into OS9 but the absolute cut off would be July.

Incorrect. As I said in my original post, and I quote, "Apple has said -- repeatedly -- that all new Macs introduced this year will boot in OS X *ONLY*."

The only Macs that can continue to boot into OS 9 are the ones introduced **LAST YEAR**. In the Power Mac line, that's the "other" 1.25 dualie.

[TheMightyG]

Originally posted by claughery
What school do you go to? and when exactly did they lower the prices???

Harvard. They dropped the price Feb. 11th. Interestingly, the only price change was for the 1Ghz superdrive 15"; the price for the 867mhz 15" tibook was unchanged at $1899.00 (which it has been at since late December 2002)

[john123]

Originally posted by JBracy


Actually that's not quite correct. While it is true that the new PowerMacs, and PowerBooks won't boot 9, apparently the new iMacs will.

Basically anything with a new motherboard design, will be X only. And as Steve actually mentioned in his Keynote - The new PB's are X only.

Wrong again. Good grief -- I can't believe how much misinformation is being propagated around here!!!!!!!

The new iMacs do **NOT** boot into OS 9:

http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=86209

Now, there's some rumor out there from macosrumors.com -- the sad site that it is -- that the low-end iMacs will boot in OS 9 because they lack Firewire 800. That said, I'm more apt to trust Apple's Knowledge Base than MOSR.

However, if someone has one of the "new" 15" iMacs and wants to prove me and Apple wrong, go for it...

[TZADOMI]

I am holding out for $ and for the new version. http://www.apple4less.com/new_g5.htm
shows a potential design... I like the chrome, as long as the heat is not a problem and it is not painted on, not that I dislike the Ti. I have yet to see with my eyes the Al books... looking forward to beholding the beauty. :D

My take: I think the chrome will be a future thing, but not for the 15 in ch now. We all know that it will be 15.4", obviously it will have bluetooth and A Extreme. There will probably be a speedbump, if they are getting rid of the 867, which seems like it is now time (progress dictates) although it seems the iMac has been the testing grounds for new stuff from what I can tell. I expect 2 maybe 3 standards, a 1 GHz model with combo drive... 512 Ram. Same with superdrive, and then higher GHz with superdrive. Oh yeah, almost forgot... I think we will see this earlier tham March, although it is fast approaching. I think either next week Thursday (go figure most releases are on Tues.) or the last week of the month.. That is my thoughts and hopes...

[john123]

Originally posted by TZADOMI
I am holding out for $ and for the new version. http://www.apple4less.com/new_g5.htm
shows a potential design... I like the chrome, as long as the heat is not a problem and it is not painted on, not that I dislike the Ti. I have yet to see with my eyes the Al books... looking forward to beholding the beauty. :D

My take: I think the chrome will be a future thing, but not for the 15 in ch now. We all know that it will be 15.4", obviously it will have bluetooth and A Extreme. There will probably be a speedbump, if they are getting rid of the 867, which seems like it is now time (progress dictates) although it seems the iMac has been the testing grounds for new stuff from what I can tell. I expect 2 maybe 3 standards, a 1 GHz model with combo drive... 512 Ram. Same with superdrive, and then higher GHz with superdrive. Oh yeah, almost forgot... I think we will see this earlier tham March, although it is fast approaching. I think either next week Thursday (go figure most releases are on Tues.) or the last week of the month.. That is my thoughts and hopes...

That's a 3D mockup dude. There are literally hundreds of them floating around the web. There's about as good a chance of that being the design as there are of me sprouting wings and flying. Look at the hinges -- the very physics of the design don't work out.

[NicoMan]

Originally posted by john123


Wrong again. Good grief -- I can't believe how much misinformation is being propagated around here!!!!!!!

The new iMacs do **NOT** boot into OS 9:

http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=86209

Now, there's some rumor out there from macosrumors.com -- the sad site that it is -- that the low-end iMacs will boot in OS 9 because they lack Firewire 800. That said, I'm more apt to trust Apple's Knowledge Base than MOSR.

However, if someone has one of the "new" 15" iMacs and wants to prove me and Apple wrong, go for it...

You could be right, john, but the knowledge base is quite vague with the iMac: do you have any idea what the serial numbers are on the 15" iMac on the Store?? That's the only way to verify/unverify that rumour....

NicoMan

[AhmedFaisal]

Darn it would really be a bummer if they downgraded the book from the Radeon 9000 to the NVIDIA chip, I can't see why they are still including them in any mac. Any magazine I read rates them inferior to the ATi Radeons for the Mac... (namely Macwelt, C'T, MacUp)
Otherwise this book might really become a must have, the 17 inch is too big for my taste and the 12 inch lacks in two major categories, namely L3 and a DVI port. Especially the L3 issue is upsetting one would have thought Apple learned its lesson from the 550/667 Powerbook disaster.

On another note, I still have a Pismo standing around here which cries for a CPU upgrade. There is 2 available from Powerlogix, either the G3 800 (PPC750FX) or the G4 500 (PPC7410) which would you guys recommend? I do stuff that is non altivec enhanced like MS Office and the likes but also watch movies and do photoshop on the machine (with the 3ivX codec and mplayer being altivec enhanced same as photoshop). What do you guys think will give me the best performance, the G3 or the G4?
Cheers,

Ahmed

[NicoMan]

Originally posted by AhmedFaisal
Darn it would really be a bummer if they downgraded the book from the Radeon 9000 to the NVIDIA chip, I can't see why they are still including them in any mac. Any magazine I read rates them inferior to the ATi Radeons for the Mac... (namely Macwelt, C'T, MacUp)

Is that a fact? I am really curious. I mean how do we get comparisons, because to my knowledge the 17" has yet to ship and that's the only way you get a GeForce4 Go 440 with 64MB to run on a Mac... Mind you, I am not saying you are wrong, but everyone is jumping to conclusions with those graphics cards, even before seeing what they are capable of. And most of those tests we see about graphics cards come from the PeeCee world where most of the time it's the DirectX performance that is measured. Now about the OpenGL performance , I don't know. I would like to see it with my own eyes.

NicoMan

[Glossybear]

I just talked to the sales rep at the Campus bookstore.

The deal for the 1Ghz 15 incher with superdrive and 3 years APP is $2038.

$1110 off retail.

There has to be something up!

[AhmedFaisal]

Originally posted by NicoMan


Is that a fact? I am really curious. I mean how do we get comparisons, because to my knowledge the 17" has yet to ship and that's the only way you get a GeForce4 Go 440 with 64MB to run on a Mac... Mind you, I am not saying you are wrong, but everyone is jumping to conclusions with those graphics cards, even before seeing what they are capable of. And most of those tests we see about graphics cards come from the PeeCee world where most of the time it's the DirectX performance that is measured. Now about the OpenGL performance , I don't know. I would like to see it with my own eyes.

NicoMan

Well recent C'T and Macwelt made a comparison between the desktop NVIDIAs and ATis including the Radeon 9000 and the lastest GeForce Card. In all the tests the GeForce cards were significantly slower than the ATis. Macwelt is going to run a comparison between the current 15 inch and the 17inch in the next issue but they said they looked at the new PBs at Macworld and have doubts that the GeForce speed issue will be any different in the mobility version from the desktop version, rather they fear it will be even worse. But I will keep you updated when I got the issue.
Cheers,

Ahmed

[TheMightyG]

Originally posted by AhmedFaisal
Darn it would really be a bummer if they downgraded the book from the Radeon 9000 to the NVIDIA chip, I can't see why they are still including them in any mac. Any magazine I read rates them inferior to the ATi Radeons for the Mac... (namely Macwelt, C'T, MacUp)
Otherwise this book might really become a must have, the 17 inch is too big for my taste and the 12 inch lacks in two major categories, namely L3 and a DVI port. Especially the L3 issue is upsetting one would have thought Apple learned its lesson from the 550/667 Powerbook disaster.

On another note, I still have a Pismo standing around here which cries for a CPU upgrade. There is 2 available from Powerlogix, either the G3 800 (PPC750FX) or the G4 500 (PPC7410) which would you guys recommend? I do stuff that is non altivec enhanced like MS Office and the likes but also watch movies and do photoshop on the machine (with the 3ivX codec and mplayer being altivec enhanced same as photoshop). What do you guys think will give me the best performance, the G3 or the G4?
Cheers,

Ahmed

Hi Ahmed:

Tough call on the CPU upgrade. You may want to check out Mike Breeden's excellent xlr8yourmac.com site. He keeps an exhaustive database from readers detailing their experiences from CPU upgrades with all types of Macs. You can search by type of computer or type of CPU upgrade here (http://forums.xlr8yourmac.com/cpureview.lasso)

Any G3 or G4 upgraded Pismo is still going to be limited by the 8meg ATI Rage 128 video card though, so you may still not get great movie playback.

[TheMightyG]

Originally posted by Glossybear
I just talked to the sales rep at the Campus bookstore.

The deal for the 1Ghz 15 incher with superdrive and 3 years APP is $2038.

$1110 off retail.

There has to be something up!

Yegads man that's cheap....what university do you go to? I'm switching!!!!

[NicoMan]

Originally posted by Glossybear
I just talked to the sales rep at the Campus bookstore.

The deal for the 1Ghz 15 incher with superdrive and 3 years APP is $2038.

$1110 off retail.

There has to be something up!

Man, this is reaaaaallllly cheap. And with 3 year APP you are sorted, because it won't lose too much value after a year. That definitely sounds like a bargain to me... (but then again what do I know?)

NicoMan

[hesdeadjim]

Originally posted by NicoMan

It's pretty much a given that the hinge is going to be changed. I know that aesthetically it is not cool to have the wires on the side. But this is not a desktop, and for access it is way better to have the sockets on the side. You are supposed to carry a laptop around (at least be able to) and having the ports at the back is NOT convenient. Besides, wires or no wires, those machines are still beautiful.

NicoMan

Before I used my PB, I would have totaly disagreed with you. I think aesthetically it looks horrible compared to behind the computer.

Then I carried my PB with me to class everyday, and used it almost everyday. It is such a pain to go behind the computer and plug in everything. It would be just great to plug in a mouse on the side and such. Now, I know I can get a Docking Station, but I don't want to pay extra money for something that I really don't have room on my desk for. Plus, like I said, I would bring a mouse with me to class, but it really is a pain to connect anything. Well, that's my 2 cents.

[NicoMan]

Originally posted by NicoMan


You could be right, john, but the knowledge base is quite vague with the iMac: do you have any idea what the serial numbers are on the 15" iMac on the Store?? That's the only way to verify/unverify that rumour....

NicoMan

Actually I just read a report on MacBidouille from a guy who received his 'brand new' iMac 15" and couldn't boot into OS9 (the guy didn't seem to be technically challenged, he sounded like he knew what he was doing).
I stand corrected then... the new iMacs don't seem to be able to boot into OS9 (even the 15").

NicoMan

[SmileyDude]

Originally posted by moby1
I'm actually thinking of removing the System Folder and Applications (Mac OS 9) folders but then I'm stuck in the future. ;)

Heh, I guess I'm sorta stuck in the future and the past at the same time -- my 366mhz iBook has been OS X only now for almost 2 years now. I haven't missed it one bit :)

Back to the topic -- when the 15" gets updated, I'll evaluate if I'm going to upgrade to a 12" or 15" -- if the 15" isn't castrated like the 12" (L3 Cache, 640mb max RAM, >867mhz), it just might be what I'm looking for. Of course, by then, maybe there will be a rev. B 12" out... :D

[RndmAxess]

deleted

[peteMG]

Originally posted by RndmAxess
With stuff plugged into the side I'd expect more problems with broken connectors from yanked wires, etc. Working like that would be sort of like trying not to trip over your own shoelaces while you walk.
Yeah, can't say I was such a big fan of wires-out-the-side when I saw the 'books at MWSF. They seem distracting. Not to mention that it prevents you from having a desk-based work position where you have an external mouse right off to the side of the unit.

Don't really care about the hinge.. the biggest improvement they could make to the 15" (besides getting rid of that horribly chipping paint) would be to make them a little more solid. When you grab a TiBook by the edges you can easily torque it from side, bend it slightly, etc. In comparison, the aluminum machines are as solid as a piece of rock.

I hope an update is good though - 17" is too big for a coach-class seat!

[bentmywookie]

Originally posted by Glossybear
I just talked to the sales rep at the Campus bookstore.

The deal for the 1Ghz 15 incher with superdrive and 3 years APP is $2038.

$1110 off retail.

There has to be something up!


I know UC - Irvine has a similar deal (someone posted it somewhere). $2000 or so for the 1 gig superdrive. I went to the site and it's true. What's funny is the 867 model was not on sale and ended up being more expensive.

I just called my campus rep (Berkeley) and the 867 is on sale for $2100 or so but the 1 gig is $2650. what a bummer.

[TheMightyG]

Originally posted by bentmywookie



I know UC - Irvine has a similar deal (someone posted it somewhere). $2000 or so for the 1 gig superdrive. I went to the site and it's true. What's funny is the 867 model was not on sale and ended up being more expensive.

I just called my campus rep (Berkeley) and the 867 is on sale for $2100 or so but the 1 gig is $2650. what a bummer.

Incredible:

Incredible (http://www.book.uci.edu/ePOS?design=computer&form=test%2fcbase%2findex%2ehtml&store=1)

[DavPeanut]

Originally posted by peteMG
I hope an update is good though - 17" is too big for a coach-class seat!
It fits!!!!

[TheMightyG]

Originally posted by DavPeanut

It fits!!!!

Well, 300+ pound passengers also theoretically fit in those seats, but it sure ain't pretty....

I

[sanford]

Originally posted by Mr. MacPhisto
The 15" Powerbooks desperately need an update. They look cheap and shoddy when set next to the 12" PB in the Apple Store. The double hinge looks weak compared to the single, sturdy one on the iBook and new PBs, and the Titanium doesn't feel or look as good as the aluminum.

Sorry, the TiBooks are still the pinnacle of cool design. The AlBooks are nice and when an upgrade becomes necessary for me, I won't be repulsed by the new design. But, the TiBooks remain the more striking design. The AlBook look has been around in high-end audiophile equipment since the early 80s. The TiBook is still one-of-a-kind.

That double-hinge you hate so much gives you a much greater range of screen angles. The 12 AlBook is restricted, just like the iBook.

[DavPeanut]

15.4 inch PB and iBook updates next week. (I'm sorta have a weird feeling, I dont know why thought.) Possible new iPods too.
10 for 199, 20 for 299 30 for 399 40 for 499. 199!! That would be perfect. I think that they wont use the 30 gig though, so it will still be 10 for 299.

[withnail]

Glossybear:

Do you mind telling me what school you go to that has that rad deal on the 15" PB? I'm trying desperately to see if I know anyone who's a student at one of the colleges with the $1,999 deal, so's I can get them to snag me one. Struck out so far at U. C. Irvine. :(

Seems to be only schools in California that heve this deal going on from what I've seen, too...

thx

[robodweeb]

I'm trying desperately to see if I know anyone who's a student at one of the colleges with the $1,999 deal, so's I can get them to snag me one. Struck out so far at U. C. Irvine. :(

A much better deal is available to all students at degree-granting institutions ... join Apple's Developer Connection for $99/yr and get a one-time CPU purchase at a significant discount.

From http://developer.apple.com/students/sthardware.html
"ADC Student Program members in the US, Canada, Australia, and Europe may take advantage of a special, one-time hardware discount.

ADC Student Program members are entitled to one purchase of a discounted development system (one (1) CPU with one (1) monitor; or one (1) iMac, PowerBook, or iBook per lifetime (non-renewable and subject to change) at approximately a 10-20% discount. (The discount varies by product and region due to local sales policies, pricing, and availability). Third-party products and software are not available for discounted purchase. Note that not all Apple products are discounted equivalently and some may not be available through the ADC Hardware Discount Program at all.

Please be sure you are adhering to the Terms and Conditions before ordering. In addition, we request that students fax a copy of student identification AND proof of current class registration in developer-related courses. Apple reserves the right to refuse access to this offer by non-students and/or non-developers. "

Example: low-end 12" Powerbook @$1439, hi-end 17" Powerbook @$2639


And, for non-students, I casually mention that I'm a student at UC Irvine ... ;)

[MacBandit]

Originally posted by robodweeb


A much better deal is available to all students at degree-granting institutions ... join Apple's Developer Connection for $99/yr and get a one-time CPU purchase at a significant discount.

A much better deal? I know of the ADC discount but it in no way will get you a 15" PowerBook with SuperDrive for $2000 or less such as these on campus discounts are.

[paulie]

Originally posted by TheMightyG


Well, 300+ pound passengers also theoretically fit in those seats, but it sure ain't pretty....

I

I'll attest to that.. I'm a svelt 270 pounds, and I HATE flying economy.. my 12" iBook barely fits on the tray on some airlines, heaven forbid a 17".. good lord..

I look at my 17" iMac's screen and think about that monster PB.. too big!

[DavPeanut]

Originally posted by paulie
I'll attest to that.. I'm a svelt 270 pounds, and I HATE flying economy.. my 12" iBook barely fits on the tray on some airlines, heaven forbid a 17".. good lord..

I look at my 17" iMac's screen and think about that monster PB.. too big!
How about putting the laptop in your lap.

[peteMG]

Originally posted by DavPeanut

It fits!!!!
Are you serious? Wow. I didn't think it was possible. When I flew just recently with mine, I would set it on the tray and the screen would nestle right into the notch where the tray fits when it is in its upright and locked position.

Oh, I suppose if you put it on your lap it could work. Then just fold down the screen and voila, it's wide enough to be the tray..

[MacBandit]

Originally posted by peteMG
Then just fold down the screen and voila, it's wide enough to be the tray..

Apple thinks of everything. Cup holders on there towers and Airline trays on there portables.:D

[jefhatfield]

Originally posted by Mattski
This update has to happen. Who would buy a 15" at the moment???

if i had the money, i would

but with my budget...and more importantly my "real" needs, an ibook or 12" inch powerbook will do the trick

[MacAttak]

The illuminated keyboard is the future in PC hardware. Not everyone is proffecient at typing. Us "Hunt & Peck" people need allthe help we can get:D

[jbomber]

Originally posted by MacAttak
The illuminated keyboard is the future in PC hardware. Not everyone is proffecient at typing. Us "Hunt & Peck" people need allthe help we can get:D

Illuminated keyboard, built-in bluetooth, non chippy aluminum skin. Hopefully not too much longer now....

[Simon Spero]

After a few months of hell, UNC has started a new financial year, and I'm finally allowed to get a replacement for my faithful but ancient G3 firewire. [my desktop is a dual 1.25Ghz, which made the speed of the 500 Mhz G3 even more painful.

I'm currently torn between getting a 17" now, or waiting for a 15" refresh with ata/100 and PC2700 memory.

I keep thinking of the 17" as a re-incarnation of the original Mac Portable, just a couple of hundred pounds lighter :)

Is the 17" useable as a laptop in relatively stable situations (at a coffee shop, in a library, etc). Do people look at you funny?

As for a G5 laptop; looking at the heat output I'm not putting one of those anywhere near my crotch. The towers do look like excellent candidates for water cooling though.

[Pete_Hoover]

Even though this information had been stated a few months ago, it is nice to know that there are still rumors of the illuminated keyboard on the 15. That is really a good feature. Hopefully a processor upgrade, too. They need one.