Powerbooks give Macintosh cause for optimism

Article Abstract:

The Macintosh Powerbook G3 portable computer represents Apple's return to prominence in innovative computer design. Significant processing power, attractiveness and tactical appeal have helped the Powerbook G3 convince some Macintosh users to replace their desktop machines with the Powerbook G3. Each of the new Powerbooks measures at least one inch deeper and wider than their predecessors. The larger size might make it difficult for business travel, but Powerbook fits on a user's lap while boasting a spacious and comfortable keyboard. Larger screens, including the 13.3-inch and 14.1-inch models, are much stronger than the 233 MHz Powerbook's 12.1-inch screen. The larger screens pack extra video memory, a graphics accelerator and excellent resolution of 1,024 by 768 pixels (XGA). Powerbook stands out at the high end, as the 250-MHz and 292-MHz models exclusively feature an 83 MHz system bus and a 1MB backside cache. Apple may need to take additional steps to win back Microsoft defectors.

Apple Macintosh PowerBook G3 (PowerPC-based notebook)

---

No hot rod, but a nice family car

Article Abstract:

The Apple Powerbook 1400 offers a choice between 117MHz and 133MHz PowerPC processors, but system performance is not very impressive. The Powerbook 1400 has a clear, plastic lid under which the user can insert photographs or artwork to customize its appearance. The 1400 fixes most of the problems associated with its predecessor, the Powerbook 5300, and appears to be a dependable system. This is the first Powerbook to offer an optional $145 6X CD-ROM drive. It fits into a slot on the front of the system that can also be used for a disk drive or a place to store an extra battery. The 11-inch color display has been improved and buyers have two choices: a low-priced dual-scan passive-matrix screen, or a higher-quality active-matrix version. The flip-up keyboard offers an excellent feel. Apple needs volume production of this system to meet the 1996 holiday market demand. The system will be priced from $2,500 to $4,000.

Apple Macintosh PowerBook Epic (PowerPC-based notebook)

---

There's more power but less pizazz in the latest Powerbooks

Article Abstract:

Apple's new line of Powerbook computers offer more speed but few of the innovations that have sparked interest in the past. The new releases offer infrared, wireless connections when units are placed within six feet of each other. Other new features include slots for PCMCIA cards and replaceable drives for the more expensive models. The Powerbook 190 models target the low-end of the market. They use a Motorola 68040 microprocessor, instead of the PowerPC chips that Apple is building into its higher-end products. The 190s come with either a color or a monochrome display and 4MB of RAM; the RAM is insufficient for today's standards and an 8MB model is available for $200 more. The 190s start at $1,650 and are not available until Oct 1995. The Powerbook 5300 also offers both color or monochrome versions and starting RAM offerings of 8MB. It employs a PowerPC chip, which offers extremely fast performance.

Computer industry, Product description/specification, Design and construction, 680X0 processors, Product Information, Apple Macintosh PowerBook 5300 (PowerPC-based notebook), 680X0-Based Notebook, Apple Macintosh PowerBook 190 (680X0-based notebook)

Similar abstracts:

• Abstracts: Apple Computer to offer 2 new Macintosh models; lower prices in PC's aimed at consumers. Compaq Computer enters work station fray
• Abstracts: Compuserve is joining push to broaden Internet access; new service reaches beyond business users. Microsoft speeding its on-line service
• Abstracts: Surgeon general nominee embroiled in abortion row. Surgeon general nominee defends record in hearings. Senate rejects Foster as Surgeon General nominee
• Abstracts: AT&T-BT global venture stirs doubts about timetable, stepped-up rivalry. 'Slamming' scourge: stealing of customers spreads with resellers of telephone service; the FCC is talking tough, but long-distance firms all resist an easy fix; the case of Furst Group Inc
• Abstracts: Do you want to make a deal, or purchase at the full price? Trade talk that wasn't, horror of virtual quality. Dubious honors and recognition

This website is not affiliated with document authors or copyright owners. This page is provided for informational purposes only. Unintentional errors are possible.