AppleCare Protection Plan - Mac Pro Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)For someone who has ALWAYS rejected the notion of purchasing an 'extended warranty' on ANY product purchase as just another cynical method for American corporations to wring every possible cent they can from us as consumers, I must IN THIS CASE ONLY, urge anyone considering the purchase of an Apple laptop or one of Apple's overly priced Mac 'Pro' workstations purchase the Apple'Care' extended warranty. (I am NOT some 'Leftie' anti-corporation/conspiracy theory nut-case! I simply believe that if I purchase a brand new, EXPENSIVE piece of technology - be it a motorcar, a refrigerator, a digital SLR, a flat screen teevee OR an 'insanely kewl' Apple Product [god-Steve's own description of ALL his groovy Apple Products!] - then it is reasonable to expect these 'quality' products last longer than 60,000 miles or 1 year! Consider all the blah-blah about 'quality American products' we are berated with these days.)

Why Apple'Care'?
Consider this: I purchased a Mac 'Pro' quad-core workstation a couple of years ago. Within less than 9 months I began experiencing MULTIPLE hardware problems. Of course, when I took this gift from the gods back to an Apple Store - and by way of many, many lengthy conversations with 'product specialists' @ AppleCare - the 'geniuses' (at the Apple Store's 'Genius Bar'), and the technicians in the Apple Store who supposedly 'worked on' my Mac 'Pro' all advised me 'it's a software issue'. Yep. You betcha! And that most-likely 'it's a THIRD PARTY software issue'. You know, buggy code like that built into products dumped on the market by the likes of Adobe... (Say what?!)
The 'geniuses' solution to my (perceived) problems? 'Archive and Re-Install!' They could NEVER find 'a problem' running their tip top diagnostic software (ASD + they even 'beat it up' with an 'intense' chess game software title the 'geniuses' additionally-use when making an uber effort to find the chink in either hardware or software and are unable to locate it by simply looping ASD for 24 hours or longer). If anyone has ever had to endure the gauntlet of 'Archive and Re-Install' you know that this option is the absolute LAST DITCH EFFORT one considers in order to make an OS play nicely once again with other software written SPECIFICALLY FOR that OS! (C'mon Apple! What's with all this smugness about how stable, how sophisticated, how kewl the Mac OS is?)

Well, long story short, I have the great fortune of being friends with a certified Apple technician; and unlike the 'geniuses' at the Apple Stores who just run software tests (because IT COULDN'T POSSIBLY BE A HARDWARE ISSUE - NOT a Mac!), my good friend is someone who will not accept ONLY the diagnosis of a software scan, no matter how many times you run it looking for a problem. Based upon my description of ongoing problems and with a series of screen captures I emailed him illustrating some of what I was experiencing, without even having the machine in front of him, based upon his years of experience working on Macs (and PC's) he advised me there were problems likely-with both the logicboard AND the video card. (BOTH major hardware failures, both EXTREMELY EXPENSIVE elements for Apple to replace on their 'professional' top-of-the-line product, the Mac 'Pro'!)

*It took me an additional 9 months of wrestling with countless Apple representatives before the company (finally!) decided to replace the machine!* I will not bore you with the details. Suffice it to say, I have been a loyal Mac computer customer *over the past 20 years* and have decided I will NEVER purchase another Mac 'Pro' workstation! (These are Apple's 'professional' level 'workstations'. They are phenomenally overpriced for the quality of computing you get in my experience! When I originally bought mine, approximately two years ago now, I paid nearly $4000! However, becauseI STILL PREFER the Mac environment over the Windows OS I will likely purchase *an iMac* one day in the future and max it out w/RAM for the photo editing work I conduct every day. But never, ever again will I squander money on their so-called 'professional' equipment. And as a finer point, I own Apple computers ONLY. I will not purchase any of their other products, hardware OR software. Adobe does a much better job of designing creative applications, in my opinion.)

So, to come full circle, my advice to you, to 'get it' (AppleCare for one of Apple's workstations or laptops), is based upon the advice my Apple tech friend gave me early on: 'Just cough it up Mike. A couple hundred extra bucks for extended hardwareprotection MAY save you LOTS MORE in the future!' I could have never imagined how right-on his advice to me was! (And BTW, I continue to experience videocard hick-ups even with my brand new replacement, the 'Nehalem' box; AND this quad core 'super computer' REALLY DOES NOT seem anywhere near as fast ['blazing fast'?!] as one is led to believe by all the Apple hoopla on their site. Think I'm nuts about the 'quality' of these Mac 'Pro' workstations? Stop by DealMac from time to time over the coming months and take note of the TONS OFrefurbished Mac 'Pro' 'workstations' the Apple Store is re-selling every now-and-then. Over the past year alone I have seen Apple dump hundreds of these 'pro level' refurb-machines that failed the first time out! Do your own research before dropping Big Bucks on one of these things! And if you have owned one of these machines for less than a year *purchase AppleCare before your initial 12 month warranty runs out*!)

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Product Description:
Every Mac comes with 90 days of telephone support and one year of service coverage at an Apple-authorized repair center. The AppleCare Protection Plan for Mac Pro (MA516LL/A) extends the complimentary coverage on your Mac Pro to three years of world-class support. The plan includes expert telephone assistance, global repair coverage, onsite repairs for desktop computers, web-based resources, and TechTool Deluxe from Micromat--all for one economical price.
This comprehensive AppleCare Protection Plan covers your Mac Pro, as well as an AirPort Extreme Card, an AirPort Express or AirPort Extreme Base Station, and Apple RAM purchased for your Mac Pro. You can also register one Apple display for coverage, provided the Mac and display are purchased together.


Extend your coverage to three years of service and expert telephone technical support.
One Number to Call for Help
Get direct telephone access to Apple's own technical support group, the people who know your system best. Because Apple creates the computer, the operating system, and many built-in applications, the Mac is a truly integrated system. Just one phone call can help resolve most issues with your Mac because AppleCare representatives can help troubleshoot Apple hardware, the Mac operating system, and many Apple consumer applications, including iLife, iWork, Jam Packs, iChat AV, Mail, Safari, iCal, iSync, AppleWorks, and QuickTime.
Convenient Repair Options
The AppleCare Protection Plan ensures that Apple-certified technicians will perform repairs using genuine Apple parts. With this plan, parts and labor will be covered for three years from the date of purchase of your Apple computer, two years beyond the one-year limited warranty. The plan includes onsite service for desktop computers as well as global repair coverage, which can be very important if you travel abroad.
Coverage Information
The AppleCare Protection Plan is subject to terms and conditions, which are provided on the AppleCare Protection Plan website.

To qualify for the AppleCare Protection Plan, your product must be within its one-year Apple hardware warranty.
A separate AppleCare Protection Plan must be purchased for each Apple system to be covered.
Mac mini, Mac Pro, and MacBook Pro/MacBook Air/MacBook customers may also enroll one Apple display for coverage, provided that the Mac and the display are purchased together.
Global repair coverage is included.
Onsite service for desktop computers is available within a 50-mile (80-kilometer) radius of an Apple authorized onsite service provider in the country where the plan is purchased and enrolled.
The AppleCare Protection Plan covers an Apple keyboard and mouse when they are included with a covered product (or purchased with your Mac Pro). An AirPort Extreme Card, an AirPort Express or AirPort Extreme Base Station, and Apple RAM are included in the coverage of the computer with which they are used.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I purchase the AppleCare Protection Plan anytime?

You can purchase the AppleCare Protection Plan anytime within the one-year limited warranty period. Your eligibility for coverage under the AppleCare Protection Plan starts from your hardware purchase date. Apple strongly recommends that you purchase the AppleCare Protection Plan when you purchase your Apple product to maximize the additional benefits provided under the plan.

What service options does the AppleCare Protection Plan offer?

Apple may provide service through one or more of the following options: carry-in service (to Apple retail stores or Apple Authorized Service Providers), direct mail-in service, onsite service (for desktop computers), or Do-It-Yourself (DIY) parts (so you can service your own product).

What does "global repair coverage" mean?

If you take your Apple hardware with you when you travel and happen to need repair service, the AppleCare Protection Plan offers global repair coverage. You can either go to an Apple retail store or contact Apple for information on how to obtain service. Service will be limited to the options available in the country where service is requested. Service options, parts availability, and response time vary according to country. Please see the AppleCare Protection Plan Terms and Conditions for complete details.

When I purchase the AppleCare Protection Plan, do I need to register it?

If you purchase your AppleCare Protection Plan and your covered product separately or elsewhere, you will need to register your AppleCare Protection Plan. Your AppleCare Protection Plan coverage starts from your hardware purchase date. Registering your AppleCare Protection Plan at a later date does not extend your coverage.

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Maxtor OneTouch 4 Plus 750 GB USB 2.0/FireWire 400 Desktop External Hard Drive STM307504OTA3E5-RK Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I have had a 300G "One Touch" drive for a couple of years now.It still functions acceptably.

I recently bought this current 750G Maxtor drive that I use primarily for backing up mp3 files (music) and photos. The price and capacity were right.I thought the most recent version of software would show some improvements. You see--the last version of the One Touch back up software, and now, this most recent version does not "save my life"--as it says it will on the label of the box.

IF this software "saved my life" (that is, back up ALL files on my hard drive as I specify) then it would do the simplest of functions--specifically the back up of all the files associated with mp3 files in a folder. You see, the jpg album art and folder images are part of the mp3 files. Without those images, folders lose their thumbnail identifiers. Without those images, moving files back and forth between drives and any other player program, whether it be iTunes, Windows Media Player, or to an ipod, those images are lost FOREVER.OK, maybe "forever" is not quite right, but if you have 10,000-20,000 songs on your ipod and on your hard drive, it is very time consuming to go out and grab those image files again.

So much for saving a life or even an image associated intimately with another file or folder.The problem, noted on the Seagate/Maxtor site and by other reviewers here, is that the software will NOT copy "hidden" files (even if they are unhidden in the folder).In fact this the list of files not automatically backed up...
* Operating System files that are in use
* Hidden/System Files & Folders - this includes Microsoft Outlook Data & Personal Files (e.g., *.PAB and/or *.PST files)
* Microsoft Compressed Folders
* Microsoft Encrypted Folders
* Offline Files
So you can forget about using the OneTouch software for backing up your music library (at least with the image files attached) OR your Outlook email/contacts folder (*.pst).I also noted the software was not copying zip files (compressed?) or even some Acrobat files (huh?).Oh, you CAN copy these files manually by dragging them from one location to another... but when you have a couple thousand mp3 files, that is pretty tedious!

Supposedly, SafetyDrill --another program from Seagate-- will copy these types of files, but since it was not provided in the box...there was no way to test it.

I just did not understand.So I persisted... I tried any number of methods to create a back door so I could possibly "save my life" and could not get anything to save those (un)hidden image files. I played with my file folders thinking that it was just the fact that the files are "hidden"... so I unhid them in both folders on my computer and the One Touch folders. No luck.

So with a functioning drive, that I WANT to use... I finally just dumped the software and am using a program called "filesync", available with a quick search on the web. (and well worth the $15 requested).

Why would Seagate provide such a disabled "save your life" program tocustomers who expect to be able to use the software for something as simple as backing up their ipods?

Would I recommend this drive to someone?Certainly not to a beginning computer user.I might if the experienced purchaser knew up front that THE MOST COMMON USE (back up of music files with image files in the same folder) is severely lacking using the Maxtor software... AND they would need to purchase another back-up program to do things properly.This lack of functionality is disappointing, especially when the Seagate/Maxtor site is loaded with commentary going back over a year about the same lack of functionality.Makes you wonder if they will listen when more serious problems might occur.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Maxtor OneTouch 4 Plus 750 GB USB 2.0/FireWire 400 Desktop External Hard Drive STM307504OTA3E5-RK

Product Description:
Manufacturer Product Description The Maxtor OneTouch 4 Plus solution is a full-featured backup and storage solution with Maxtor SafetyDrill for complete recovery of a hard drive's contents in case of a system crash or virus/spyware attack*. With two levels of data security and capacities up to 1 TB, users can confidently back up or sync work and home computers.


Protect your data from unauthorized use.

Back up your files with one touch of a button.

Add on storage for your desktop or laptop. Portable Performance and Security
Provide a safe haven for your entire working environment. Don't back up and protect just your files anymore. System crashes and virus attacks can happen, and it's difficult to get your computer back to just the way you like it. To prepare, should the unfortunate happen, Maxtor SafetyDrill automatically creates a snapshot of the entire contents of your PC's hard drive which can be readily booted for an easy and complete recovery.
With this elegantly simple full-featured backup solution, Maxtor's software makes automated backup scheduling, specific file restoration, sync, security, drive and power management a snap. To safeguard against unauthorized use, Maxtor OneTouch 4 Plus comes with both data encryption and Maxtor DrivePass. To top it off, with up to 1 TB you have more than enough room for your important documents, videos, photos, graphics, and music in one safe, convenient location – over 16,660 hours of digital music or 320,000 digital photos or 1000 hours of digital video or 250 two-hour DVD quality movies or 500 games.
The sleek and slim design of this hard drive--only measures 6.75 x 2.50 x 6.00-inches (H x D x W). The Maxtor OneTouch 4 Plus lets you transfer files seamlessly from your computer via its USB 2.0 connection at a brisk transfer rate of up to 480Mb/sec. The drive delivers a spindle speed of 7,200 RPM, giving you the high-speed performance you need to back your data up quickly and safely.
It's easy to install – just plug the external drive into an available USB or FireWire port on your PC or Mac, run the preloaded software, and presto you're good to go. At this compact size, and with this high performance, you now have the ability to take your data with you anywhere you go, so your digital content finally has room to breathe. A five-year warranty is also included, giving you complete peace of mind.
Product Highlights
· Maxtor SafetyDrill prepares, boots and recovers a PC's entire internal drive contents in case of system failure or virus/spyware infection.* · Back up all your files with one touch of the button or automated scheduling. · Maxtor DrivePass and Encryption protects contents of drive in case unauthorized use. · Quick and easy installation with pre-loaded software · Simple Maxtor user-interface drive management, security and backup scheduling · 5-year limited warranty · Sync data between two or more computers on the same operating system. · Customizable Maxtor OneTouch button · Auto Updater helps keep your Maxtor OneTouch solution current. · Drive and power management utilities · Dual interfaces:
-FireWire compatible up to 400Mb/sec data transfer rates
-USB 2.0 and 1.1 compatible up to 480 Mb/sec data transfer rates · PC and Mac compatible · 7200 RPM, up to 16-MB cache buffer
*Windows Only

Maxtor is the expert and the leader in designing simple external storage and backup solutions for consumers and professionals. Maxtor offers a broad line of trusted, intuitive storage solutions for safeguarding critical business data, digital files and personal memories. Maxtor developed the industry's first external storage device that features easy-to-use OneTouch® button backup and restore capabilities. The Maxtor OneTouch 4 Plus solution is the easy way to back up and store photos, videos, games, music, business data, personal information and more. The OneTouch 4 Plus solution continues the OneTouch legacy as the leading external hard drive for small office users, consumers, creative professionals and mobile warriors.

What's in the Box
Portable hard drive with preloaded installation software, USB 2.0 cable, FireWire 400/1394a cable, Maxtor SafetyDrill Recovery CD, quick start guide, AC power adapter

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Kingston - Memory - 4 GB : 2 x 2 GB - FB-DIMM 240-pin - DDR2 - 800 MHz / PC2-6400 - fully buffered Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I bought this about a year ago, and have been working very good.

100% recommended. The display that amazon has its different from the original product a receive (its more cool with a black metal enclosure to disperse HOT).

Click Here to see more reviews about: Kingston - Memory - 4 GB : 2 x 2 GB - FB-DIMM 240-pin - DDR2 - 800 MHz / PC2-6400 - fully buffered

Product Description:
DDR2 SDRAM - 4 GB - FB-DIMM - 800 MHzPrimary InformationRAM Form Factor:FB-DIMMRAM Technology:DDR2 SDRAMRAM / Memory Speed:800 MHzRAM / Storage Capacity:4 GBService&SupportService & Support Type:Lifetime WarrantyUNSPSC CodeUNSPSC Code:32101602

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Kingston Apple 8GB Kit (2x4GB Modules) 1066MHz DDR3 SODIMM iMac and Macbook Memory (KTA-MB1066K2/8G) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I have been running with this RAM in my MacBook Pro 17 (Summer 2009) for over 6 weeks.Not one lockup/freeze or problem of any kind.Programs are faster in general and I don't worry about closing applications any more.Apple computers through the years have been extremely finicky about RAM quality.I can't recommend these SO-DIMM's high enough.I put my old factory 2GB sticks for the MacBook Pro 17 into my wife's new MacBook 13.That worked perfectly..

These two 4GB SO-DIMM sticks cost $1200 from Apple directly.Spoil yourself and don't feel guilty about buying them here for much less -- especially if you use Parallels Desktop, or VMWare.Kingston will back you up, Amazon will also.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Kingston Apple 8GB Kit (2x4GB Modules) 1066MHz DDR3 SODIMM iMac and Macbook Memory (KTA-MB1066K2/8G)

Product Description:
Mac mini core 2 duo 2.0/2.26/2.53GHz; MacBook 13in, MacBook Pro 13in/15in/ 17 in,

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Apple MacBook Pro MC026LL/A 15.4-Inch Laptop Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I'm not a gamer so this review may not be helpful to those who want a computer to play games.

I have worked as a professional software developer/architect for 17 years.I started with MSDOS 2.0 and have ridden the Microsoft wave all the way through Vista 64 and I had a few years with UNIX.I have personally owned or worked with computers from Dell, HP, Compaq, IBM.I have heard of Apple products but for the most part dismissed them as more toy than tool.(I was not alone in this perspective.)I like Microsoft but after working with it for the better part of 20 year I decided to look at something different.

I never thought I would purchase an Apple yet here it is.I am impressed to say the least and I see Apple as a serious tool that also makes a cool toy.

Pros:
Lightweight - Probably the lightest laptop I've ever worked with or owned

Solid - Normally when you get laptops at 15.4 or larger, chassis flex becomes evident as you can see them bend and they creak.Yet because of its single piece construction and light weight aluminum the MacBook feels good when you need to move it.I doesn't creak and there is no noticeable bend when lifted.

Battery Life - It just keeps going, and going, and going...Actually I am seeing up to 4 hours life on the fully charged battery.My previous computer never surpassed 1.75 hours.

Size - It is very thin and carrying it around is very comfortable.I had a 17" and while I like the large display its uncomfortable to carry like a book.

Magnetic Clasp - When closing the lid the owner is rewarded with a very solid thump instead of a "creak" "clack" that you hear from so many other laptops that use a plastic display and mechanical clasp.Opening the monitor is equally a pleasing.You place you thumb under the lip and lift.The laptop may slide a little on smooth surfaces but the lid comes up smooth and controlled.

Keyboard - This is a great piece of work.Does it have "Home", "Page Up", "Page Down", the legendary "Any" key?No.Doesn't need it.A little research and practice and you will find that these "missing" keys are functions of the keyboard and I don't miss them at all.Secondly the keyboard "key-float" (that rattle you hear when you lightly stroke your finger back and forth over a laptop keyboard) is almost completely non-existent.So when you're typing it doesn't sound like your wadding up crinkly plastic and you don't annoy your neighbors.The key throw is short but very pleasant.Another thing I like about the keyboard is that you don't feel like you will break the keyboard if your touch is a little heavy.

Display - The display is a work of art.No only does it look good, but flex has been reduced to almost nothing.It feels very solid and you don't feel you need to worry about tilting the screen from the corner.The glass cover over the LED lit LCD display is awesome.You can actually clean the screen without LCD screen colors distorting.Not to mention that is automatically dims in low light and the key board lights up in the same low light conditions.that's a nice touch.The display brightness is every bit as bright as my desktop LCD display in strong light.

Touch Pad - Any who has tried to use the touch pads on other computers (I hate them generally) will love this touch pad.It works like the iPhone (except scrolling is reversed for obvious reasons - you're not actually touching the screen).The touch is light and very smooth.Making the entire touch pad the button is brilliant, it took me almost no time to get use to it and now I nearly push a hole through the Dell touch pad before I realize I have to click the buttons.I have no trouble with inadvertent touch that moves my cursor away from where I'm typing.

Quiet - I have yet to hear the fans.It makes me wonder if they ever work.

DVD Superdrive - Finally!No cup holder comes sliding out of the side of my laptop.Just simply slide the disc in and your done.It operates like the CD player in a car.It is easy to eject from the screen or a key on the keyboard.

Fit and Finish - The best I've ever seen.The only thing I've seen is a very slight misalignment of the Express Card/34 slot door.But you really have to look close to see it.

Operating System - WOW.Fast, no anti-virus, stable: it just works.I won't get too much into the OS but I will say that once I understood how Apple likes things done OS X is very appealing.Not to mention that it sleeps and wakes up faster than anything I have ever worked with.Open the monitor and it's sitting there saying "come on, I'm tired of waiting for you".

Built-in Accelerometers - Not sure what they're good for, but they're cool.Like the iPhone the MacBook Pro has three accelerometers.There is an Stanford Laptop Orchestra uses MacBook Pros to make music using these accelerometers.

No Fresh Air Openings - I really dislike fresh air ports on the bottom of laptops.They are easily plugged and they suck fuzz and dust into the heat sinks.With my previous computers the fresh air ports were placed underneath the computer right where it sets on your legs.The result was you ran a big risk overheating the computer.The MacBook Pro pulls the cooling air through the keyboard and therefore has a smooth bottom making it far better to place on you lap.

CONS:
Chassis - While it is a brilliant piece of engineering there are a couple very minor issues.

One:Always pick the computer up with both hands.While this is true of all laptops you want to last, it's a little more important with this one.The metal around the ethernet port has been machined very thin which was necessary to fit the large jack in the rather narrow side of the laptop.So if you have the monitor open and grab the laptop with you left hand and your thumb over that jack you could dent the metal around it.It doesn't warp or twist the whole chassis, it's too strong but you could see a small indention in a otherwise straight piece of metal.

Two: The metal in the Battery/Hard Drive Cover is very thin and sometime appears to hang below lip of the chassis.You really have to look to see it and it isn't all the time.I don't think is is warped or bent, but just the natural flexibility of aluminum.

Touch Pad Click - While I absolutely love the touch pad (in fact I only use a mouse anymore when I am programming on it because of the nature of the software).If you try to click at the top of the pad (nearest the screen) the force required to click goes up quite a bit.

Price? - Not really a Con.Some have complained about the price.Three and half years ago I paid $5700 for a Dell 9100 laptop (All the bells and whistles, Window XP Pro, Office Pro, the works).It has been a great computer that has been put to pasture and my family uses it.I've only had two problems with it.The dreaded mexican jumping keys (a key flies off the keyboard after you press it down while typing; AKA broken key) Dell replaced the keyboard without any trouble and the hard drive crashed and needed to be replaced.The Dell computer when new cost more than twice the MacBook Pro does today and the only thing it has over the Mac (old age and technology not withstanding) is it's 1920 x 1200 pixel display compared to the Mac's 1440 x 900 display.If I were to order the most power 15.4 laptop Apple sells today, I would still pay half the price of the Dell and the Apple does much more and has better quality overall.

To summarize this is an accomplishment that the engineers, designers, and developers should feel proud.There is some room for improvement but these improvements are at a level that other laptops have to improve a great deal just to achieve Apple's shortcomings.

I could go on further but I think this is enough.Apple has truly developed a great product in both hardware and software and I recommend it highly.

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Product Description:
Redesigned with a precision unibody enclosure crafted from a single block of aluminum, the MacBook Pro is thinner and lighter than its predecessor as well as stronger and more durable. But Apple didn't stop innovating with the body's design. The MacBook Pro also includes a new 15-inch, LED-backlit glass display (instead of an LCD panel) and a glass trackpad that doesn't include a button (for larger tracking area) and features includes Apple's Multi-Touch technology.


The redesigned MacBook Pro (see larger version). Under the hood, the MacBook Pro is powered by a powerful 2.66 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo processor (with 6 MB L2 cache and 1066 MHz front-side bus), which runs applications faster and more efficiently as well as helps to reduce power requirements and save on battery life. And the MacBook Pro includes two video processors for ultimate flexibility: NVIDIA GeForce 9400M integrated graphics for great everyday performance and NVIDIA 9600M GT discrete graphics for fast, smooth video--perfect for 3D gaming.
It's pre-loaded with Apple's Mac OS X 10.5 Leopard operating system, which enables easy backup of your most important data via Time Machine, a redesigned desktop that helps eliminate clutter. It also comes with the iLife '09 suite of applications--including iPhoto, iMovie, Garageband, and iTunes--and the newest version of the fast-loading Safari web browser. Other hardware features include a 320 GB hard drive, 4 GB of installed RAM (maximum capacity), an 8x combo Superdrive (for burning dual-layer DVDs as well as CDs), built-in Gigabit Ethernet for high-speed networking, Bluetooth 2.1+EDR (Enhanced Data Rate), FireWire 800 port, Mini DisplayPort video output (for DVI and VGA connections), and an ExpressCard/34 expansion card slot for expansion solutions such as 3G wireless networking.
The New MacBook Pro Design
Traditionally notebooks are made from multiple parts. With the new MacBook all of those parts with just one part--the breakthrough unibody enclosure. Every MacBook Pro starts its life as a single block of aluminum, which is precisely machined into the basic unibody design. Another pass and the unibody takes shape. Another, and the integrated keyboard emerges. When you pick up a new MacBook Pro, you immediately notice the entire enclosure is thinner and lighter. And it feels strong and durable--perfect for life inside (and outside) your briefcase or backpack.

The standard aluminum electro-static trackpad has been replaced with a new glass Multi-Touch trackpad, which provides 40 percent more tracking area than before. Use two fingers to scroll up and down a page. Pinch to zoom in and out. Rotate an image with your fingertips. Swipe with three fingers to flip through your photo libraries. Swipe with four fingers to show your desktop, view all open windows, or switch applications. The entire trackpad surface is also a button, allowing you to both track and click virtually anywhere on the trackpad. And you can easily enable multiple virtual buttons in software, such as right-clicking.
The keyboard has also been improved, with the rigid aluminum keyboard webbing cut precisely to hold the keys, which are curved to perfectly fit fingers. And it's illuminated, so when you're in low-light settings, such as airplanes or conference rooms, you can always see what you're typing.
The 15-inch display is made of edge-to-edge, uninterrupted glass for a smooth, seamless surface and features LED backlighting for brilliant instant-on performance that uses up to 30 percent less energy than its predecessor. The ultra-thin displays provide crisp images and vivid colors which are ideal for viewing photos and movies
Intel Core 2 Duo Processor
Experience improved energy efficiency, expanded wireless connectivity, and amazing battery life with the 2.66 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo processor, which has a super-fast 1066 MHz front-side bus (FSB), and an extra-large 6 MB L2 cache. (An L2, or secondary, cache temporarily stores data; and a larger L2 cache can help speed up your system's performance. The FSB carries data between the CPU and RAM, and a faster front-side bus will deliver better overall performance.)
The new hafnium-infused circuitry--which reduces electrical current leakage in transistors--conserves even more energy, giving you more time away from the wall outlet. With 6 MB of shared L2 cache, data and instructions can be kept close to the two processor cores, greatly increasing performance and allowing the entire system to work more efficiently. And, because the processor cores share the L2 cache, either can use the entire amount if the other happens to be idle.
Video Processing & Output
The new MacBook Pro combines the efficiency of an integrated graphics processor with the desktop-class performance of a discrete graphics processor thanks to the inclusion of both. Out of the box, it runs the integrated NVIDIA GeForce 9400M processor, which provides plenty of performance for everyday use with up to 5 hours of battery life. But when you need turbocharged performance for the most graphically intensive tasks, the discrete NVIDIA GeForce 9600M GT processor delivers--such as for demanding 3D games like Quake, Call of Duty, and Spore. And thanks to a new graphics architecture, it's easy to switch between these two processors. The 9400M graphics processor shares 256 MB of DDR3 SDRAM with main memory, while the 9600M provides 512 MB of dedicated GDDR3 video memory.
The MacBook Pro includes a next generation Mini DisplayPort, which delivers a pure digital signal that can drive up to a 30-inch widescreen display. The Mini DisplayPort is ultra-compact at just 10 percent the size of a full DVI connector, and is compatible with Apple's 24-inch Cinema Display. Adapters are also available for using VGA, DVI/HDMI and Dual-Link DVI displays
Hard Drive and Memory
The 320 GB Serial-ATA (SATA) hard drive (5400 RPM) quickens the pace with a higher speed transfer of data--akin to FireWire and USB 2.0. The 4 GB of PC3-8500 DDR2 RAM (two SO-DIMMs of 1024 MB) has an industry-leading 1066 MHz speed, and it maximizes capacity for this notebook.
Wireless Connectivity
The built-in 802.11n wireless networking provides up to five times the performance and twice the range of 802.11g, but it's also backward-compatible with 802.11a/b/g routers, enabling you to communicate with the a wide variety of Wi-Fi resources. It works seamlessly with the new AirPort Extreme with 802.11n. Use the built-in Bluetooth wireless technology to connect to your PDA or cell phone, synchronize addresses, or download pictures from your cell phone. You can also use a wireless headset for iChat audio chats and VoIP calls as well as quickly share files with a colleague.
Video Conferencing with Built-in iSight
Artfully placed in the glass display is an iSight camera, which enables easy video conferencing as well as allows you to snap pictures of yourself and create video podcasts. Using the iChat AV application, video conferencing is integrated into your iChat buddy list, so initiating a video conference is a breeze. iChat also lets you hold audio chats with up to 10 people and provides high-quality audio compression and full-duplex sound so conversation can flow naturally. For video podcasting, you can record a short clip using the iSight camera, then use iWeb to create a video blog entry or post your GarageBand-recorded podcast.
Other Features

Two USB 2.0 ports, one FireWire 800, ExpressCard/34 slot
Mini DisplayPort compatible with DVI, VGA, and dual-link DVI connectors (all optional)
8x slot-loading SuperDrive with the following write speeds: 8x DVD

Apple MacBook Pro MC226LL/A 17-Inch Laptop Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Simply put, the best laptop I've ever owned.I configured it through Apple with the 128GB SSD and apps install incredibly fast and launch instantly.The screen is a marvel, 1920 X 1200 with LCD backlight.I opted to go with the glossy, so there are some reflections but only when using directly in front of a bright window, otherwise its not a problem (for me anyway).

Bear in mind, this is a BIG laptop...its a tray table...but very sturdy and NO flex in the chassis.The trackpad is also very useable, although I still opted for a mouse (Logitech M555b Bluetooth, highly recommended also).

It doesn't heat up much and has incredible battery life...if I switch to the 9400M integrated graphics (which is fine for most uses), I can get 6 hours on a charge no problem, with WiFi, Bluetooth, brightness at about 60% and the SSD as the primary HD.With a different config YMMV, but I'd bet 5-6 hours is the norm for this machine.

All-in-all, a great laptop.I'll have this 2-3 years no problems.

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Product Description:

Amazon.com has certified this product is Frustration Free. A Frustration-Free Package is easy-to-open and comes without hard plastic "clamshell" casings, plastic bindings, and wire ties. It's designed to be opened without the use of a box cutter or knife and will protect your product just as well as traditional packaging during shipping. Products with Frustration-Free Packaging can frequently be shipped in their own boxes, without the need for an additional shipping box. Learn more about Frustration-Free Packaging.


Featuring a precision unibody enclosure crafted from a single block of aluminum, the 17-inch MacBook Pro is thinner and lighter than its predecessor as well as stronger and more durable. But Apple didn't stop innovating with the body's design. The MacBook Pro also includes a new high-resolution LED-backlit widescreen with a 1920-by-1200-pixel resolution, a greater color gamut for more vibrant colors, and a 700:1 contrast ratio that makes whites brighter and blacks blacker. It also includes the new glass trackpad that does away with the trackpad button (for larger tracking area) and features Apple's Multi-Touch technology. And the non-removable battery lasts up to 8 hours on a single charge and can be recharged up to 1000 times--compared with only 200 to 300 times for typical notebooks.




The 17-inch unibody MacBook Pro (see larger version). Under the hood, the MacBook Pro is powered by a powerful 2.8 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo processor (with 6 MB L2 cache and 1066 MHz front-side bus), which runs applications faster and more efficiently as well as helps to reduce power requirements and save on battery life. And the MacBook Pro includes two video processors for ultimate flexibility: NVIDIA GeForce 9400M integrated graphics for great everyday performance and NVIDIA 9600M GT discrete graphics (512 MB of GDDR3 memory) for fast, smooth video--perfect for 3D gaming.


Other hardware features include a 500 GB hard drive, 4 GB of installed RAM (which can be upgraded to 8 GB), an 8x combo Superdrive (for burning dual-layer DVDs as well as CDs), built-in Gigabit Ethernet for high-speed networking, Bluetooth 2.1+EDR (Enhanced Data Rate), FireWire 800 port, Mini DisplayPort video output (for DVI and VGA connections), and an ExpressCard/34 expansion card slot for expansion solutions such as 3G cellular networking.


It comes pre-loaded with Apple's Mac OS X 10.6 Snow Leopard operating system--an operating system custom-designed for the advanced technology inside--and it also comes with the iLife '09 suite of applications, including iPhoto, iMovie, Garageband, and iTunes.


The Unibody MacBook Pro Design
Traditionally notebooks are made from multiple parts. With the MacBook Pro all of those parts with just one part--the breakthrough unibody enclosure. Every MacBook Pro starts its life as a single block of aluminum, which is precisely machined into the basic unibody design. Another pass and the unibody takes shape. Another, and the integrated keyboard emerges. When you pick up a new MacBook Pro, you immediately notice the entire enclosure is thinner and lighter. And it feels strong and durable--perfect for life inside (and outside) your briefcase or backpack.





The standard aluminum electro-static trackpad has been replaced with a new glass Multi-Touch trackpad, which provides 40 percent more tracking area than before. Use two fingers to scroll up and down a page. Pinch to zoom in and out. Rotate an image with your fingertips. Swipe with three fingers to flip through your photo libraries. Swipe with four fingers to show your desktop, view all open windows, or switch applications. The entire trackpad surface is also a button, allowing you to both track and click virtually anywhere on the trackpad. And you can easily enable multiple virtual buttons in software, such as right-clicking.


The keyboard has also been improved, with the rigid aluminum keyboard webbing cut precisely to hold the keys, which are curved to perfectly fit fingers. And it's illuminated, so when you're in low-light settings, such as airplanes or conference rooms, you can always see what you're typing.


Vibrant Display
With the high-resolution LED-backlit widescreen display on the 17-inch MacBook Pro, you get desktop-quality color in an Apple notebook for the first time. The moment you open your MacBook Pro, you're greeted instantly by full, corner-to-corner screen brightness. The 1920 x 1200-pixel resolution (133 pixels per inch) means you can view more palettes and windows or watch HD video in its native 1920 x 1080 resolution. Perfect whether you're working in the studio or out in the field, the display offers a 60 percent greater color gamut than previous generations for richer, more vibrant colors and a 700:1 contrast ratio that makes whites brighter and blacks blacker. In addition, the seamless glass enclosure makes the display stronger and more durable. Because it's power efficient and the glass is mercury- and arsenic-free, it's also greener than ever.


Long-Lasting Battery
The 17-inch MacBook Pro includes a newly engineered lithium-polymer battery that that lasts up to 8 hours on a single charge thanks to advanced chemistry, intelligent monitoring of the system and battery, and Adaptive Charging technology. The battery is built right into the computer, eliminating the space-consuming mechanisms and housings that standard removable batteries require. This non-removable battery also provides a longer battery lifespan of up to 1000 recharges--meaning fewer depleted batteries and less waste, which is better for the environment.


Giving it a lifespan of up to 1000 recharges required breakthroughs in battery technology. Apple electro-chemists developed advanced chemistry that maintains the battery's charging capabilities longer than ever. And while most notebooks wear down their batteries by charging them at a constant rate, the 17-inch MacBook Pro takes a different approach. Using an Apple-developed technology called Adaptive Charging, a microchip on the battery constantly communicates with the computer to determine the optimal way to charge its cells, adjusting the current up and down depending on a variety of conditions. Combined, these advancements offer a dramatic improvement in battery lifespan: more than three times the lifespan of typical notebook batteries--up to five years.




Off-the-shelf lithium-ion cells come in fixed, cylindrical shapes. The 17-inch MacBook Pro is powered by custom-made, ultrathin lithium-polymer batteries. Intel Core 2 Duo Processor
Experience improved energy efficiency, expanded wireless connectivity, and amazing battery life with the 2.80 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo processor, which has a super-fast 1066 MHz front-side bus (FSB), and an extra-large 6 MB on-chip shared L2 cache running 1:1 with processor speed. (An L2, or secondary, cache temporarily stores data; and a larger L2 cache can help speed up your system's performance. The FSB carries data between the CPU and RAM, and a faster front-side bus will deliver better overall performance.)


The hafnium-infused circuitry--which reduces electrical current leakage in transistors--conserves even more energy, giving you more time away from the wall outlet. With 6 MB of shared L2 cache, data and instructions can be kept close to the two processor cores, greatly increasing performance and allowing the entire system to work more efficiently. And, because the processor cores share the L2 cache, either can use the entire amount if the other happens to be idle.


Video Processing & Output
The 17-inch MacBook Pro combines the efficiency of an integrated graphics processor with the desktop-class performance of a discrete graphics processor thanks to the inclusion of both. Out of the box, it runs the integrated NVIDIA GeForce 9400M processor, which provides plenty of performance for everyday use with up to 5 hours of battery life. But when you need turbocharged performance for the most graphically intensive tasks, the discrete NVIDIA GeForce 9600M GT processor delivers--such as for demanding 3D games like Quake, Call of Duty, and Spore. And thanks to a new graphics architecture, it's easy to switch between these two processors. The 9400M graphics processor shares 256 MB of DDR3 SDRAM with main memory, while the 9600M provides 512 MB of dedicated GDDR3 video memory.


The MacBook Pro includes a next generation Mini DisplayPort, which delivers a pure digital signal that can drive up to a 30-inch widescreen display. The Mini DisplayPort is ultra-compact at just 10 percent the size of a full DVI connector, and is compatible with Apple's 24-inch Cinema Display. Adapters are also available for using VGA, DVI/HDMI and Dual-Link DVI displays


Hard Drive and Memory
The 500 GB Serial-ATA (SATA) hard drive (5400 RPM) quickens the pace with a higher speed transfer of data--akin to USB 2.0. The 4 GB of PC3-8500 DDR3 RAM (two SO-DIMMs of 1024 MB) has an industry-leading 1066 MHz speed, and the RAM capacity can be increased to 8 GB.


Wireless Connectivity
The built-in 802.11n wireless networking provides up to five times the performance and twice the range of 802.11g, but it's also backward-compatible with 802.11a/b/g routers, enabling you to communicate with the a wide variety of Wi-Fi resources. It works seamlessly with the new AirPort Extreme with 802.11n. Use the built-in Bluetooth wireless technology to connect to your PDA or cell phone, synchronize addresses, or download pictures from your cell phone. You can also use a wireless headset for iChat audio chats and VoIP calls as well as quickly share files with a colleague.


Video Conferencing with Built-in iSight
Artfully placed in the glass display is an iSight camera, which enables easy video conferencing as well as allows you to snap pictures of yourself and create video podcasts. Using the iChat AV application, video conferencing is integrated into your iChat buddy list, so initiating a video conference is a breeze. iChat also lets you hold audio chats with up to 10 people and provides high-quality audio compression and full-duplex sound so conversation can flow naturally. For video podcasting, you can record a short clip using the iSight camera, then use iWeb to create a video blog entry or post your GarageBand-recorded podcast.


Other Features

Three USB 2.0 ports, one FireWire 800, ExpressCard/34 slot
Mini DisplayPort compatible with DVI, VGA, and dual-link DVI connectors (all optional)
Dual display and video mirroring: Simultaneously supports full native resolution on the built-in display and up to 2560 by 1600 pixels on an external display, both at millions of colors
8x slot-loading SuperDrive with the following write speeds: 8x DVD

Matrox MXO2 Mini High Definition HDMI & Analog I/O Device with PCIe Host ExpressCard/34 Adapter for Laptop, Win/Mac Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This cost effective little device is a savior for anyone working in HD on a laptop.Using the ExpressCard/34 Adapter slot - you can monitor your HD video on any TV with an HDMI or COMPONENT input.You can even send out a digital and analog signal at the same time.You can even send to tape!

Drawbacks?You can edit in a 23.98 environment and you can view out your video on any TV monitoe - but it gets converted to 59.94 on the way out - so if you want to go to TAPE in 23.98 - you can't.It would record in 59.94.

But for color correction and checking frame rates - and just plain viewing your video on something other than an interlaced computer monitor - it is awesome.

Ease of use?Easy to install and get working - it gets a little tricky when trying to figure out what resolution for viewing - the phonebook list of frame rates and resolutions can be overwhelming - but once you get it right, it's great.

The best part is that it's really the only solution for cost effective HD monitoring out of a laptop AND it's a good one.

Love it.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Matrox MXO2 Mini High Definition HDMI and Analog I/O Device with PCIe Host ExpressCard/34 Adapter for Laptop, Win/Mac

Product Description:
Matrox MXO2 Mini High Definition HDMI & Analog I/O Device with PCIe Host ExpressCard/34 Adapter for Laptop, Win/Mac

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Crucial Technology 256GB Crucial M225 Series 2.5-Inch Solid State Drive (CT256M225) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I know that spending $600 for just a hard drive seems high.However, I feel the Crucial 256GB was a great choice for me.I have an "old" MackBook core duo notebook that was purchased in 2006.I replaced the 200GB hard drive with the Crucial 256GB SSD and what a difference.My MacBook now boots in about 1/3 the previous time and applications seem to load instantly (no more bouncing on the dock).I also run Windows on my MackBook and it seems to perform better also.

I did have one moment of panic after installing the new SSD.I was booting from the new Snow Leopard disc and it did not see the new SSD as a possible installation location.I realized that the new SSD had not been formatted.The solution was to run the disk utility on the new Snow Leopard disc and the problem was solved.

Overall, I am very satisfied with the Crucial 256GB SSD and Amazon.I anticipate getting another couple of years out of my MackBook, so I think $600 was a value for me.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Crucial Technology 256GB Crucial M225 Series 2.5 Inch Solid State Drive (CT256M225)

Product Description:
The Crucial M225 series Solid-State Drive is an excellent alternative to a traditional hard drive in notebooks and netbooks. No moving parts provides for a quieter, cooler, and more durable storage solution. It employs an industry-standard interface and dimensions, so it is easy to install. The Crucial brand of memory has long been synonymous with quality, reliability, and performance.

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Crucial Technology 128 GB Crucial RealSSD C300 Series Solid State Drive CTFDDAC128MAG-1G1 Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Installed this on a Gigabyte i7 MB with Sata 6G onboard. Read speeds are indeed high, I ran ATTO benchmark on it and here's some numbers,
16k 117M Write 180M Read
64k 105M Write 292M Read
128k 139M Write 307M Read
The numbers stayed pretty close to the 128k size with a max read of 324M and 138M for writting.
These test where done on an ntfs format with default cluster sizes on
Windows 7 x64
i7 950 @ 3.6G
12G Ram @1500

Click Here to see more reviews about: Crucial Technology 128 GB Crucial RealSSD C300 Series Solid State Drive CTFDDAC128MAG-1G1

Product Description:
If you're looking for unhindered speed, Crucial's RealSSD C300 series solid-state drive is here! The new 2.5" Crucial RealSSD C300 drive offers mobile and desktop users scorching-fast read speeds of up to 355MB/s.Designed with high-speed MLC NAND, advanced controller technology, optimized NAND management, and the SATA 6Gb/s interface, these drives dramatically improve data transfers for bandwidth-demanding applications like audio and video.

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Corsair 256 GB Performance Series Internal Solid State Drive (SSD) CMFSSD-256GBG2D Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I just got this yesterday after a long weekend wait and let me tell you this thing rocks.And it rocks fast :).I am going to give you a review on a perspective of real world use and not on benchmark with all the numbers, not yet anyways.

I bought this for my MacBook Pro unibody and it is the best upgrade I have ever done.The speed is just simply mind boggling.I was shocked on how fast everything is.I am not talking about user wishful thinking, bias opinion of the speed gain, I am talking about screaming fast, jaw dropping speed.To give you some ideas on how fast this thing boots up, with the original stock drive, I got out a stop watch and timed it (not very scientific here but it'll do) and it took 1 minutes and 46 secs to cold boot the MacBook Pro into the desktop.With this new SSD, it took 22 seconds.

Applications loading is extremely fast as well.I mean, as soon as you hit the icon, the app is already fully loaded.I have a 8000 songs iTunes library plus about 40+ movies and 10 TV shows and iTunes loaded with lighting speed.It used to take at least a full minute to fully load iTunes, now it takes, literally 1 to 2 seconds (yes you read correct 1 to 2 secs to fully load iTunes).

I also have Photo collections with several thousands pics and it took, are you ready? It took 2.2 seconds to load the entire library.How cool is that?

Safari and FireFox are both stunning in loading speed with about 8 tabs of web pages.

My machine was running fairly cool with the old drive but when watching movies, the machine gets warm or sometimes hot to touch.With this SSD, I watched a full length 2 hour movie and the bottom of the MB Pro is steel cold.The fan never kicked on the entire movie.In fact I have not heard the fan since yesterday.To be fair, the MB Pro is so efficient that I never had any problem with heat or hear the fan noise but with the SSD drive, it is just dead quite.Very strange to use a completely noiseless and steel cold to the touch notebook.

About the drive.I did extensive research and found that this is one of the very best right now, watch out Intel (I think Intel still is the King).Before you get turned off my the name Corsair, it is really a Samsung drive with Samsung RAM chips and controller.Samsung has its own version of 256GB SSD but they only sell to OEM and not regular folks like you and me.

A tip:

Installation of the drive into MB Pro is very simple. Remove one screw that holds the drive and remove the 4 screws on the old drive (need special screw driver for these 4 screws). There is a video from OWC computing that shows exactly how to do it.

Painless upgrade:
I first put the SSD drive into an external USB enclosure.Downloaded SuperDuper, a free program to clone my old existing drive to the new SSD.Installed the SSD into MB Pro and boot it up.The first time booting up with SSD took a lot longer than what I stated earlier.I believe the OS needs to do some configuration for it first.After another reboot, the speed was astonishing.

I know that this is not cheap and I hear you.But if you want the joy of the greatest upgrade ever in the history of upgrading, this drive is the drive to get.Also, DO NOT go cheap on SSD drives.You get what you paid for.All SSDs are not created equal.Go do some research before buying but if you want to listen to someone who already did the research, read anything and everything on SSDs for years, then run, don't walk and buy this awesome drive.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Corsair 256 GB Performance Series Internal Solid State Drive (SSD) CMFSSD-256GBG2D

Product Description:
Corsair solid state disk drives set a new standard for reliability in desktop and notebook storage solutions. Corsair solid state disk drives utilize specially selected Samsung components to enable a life expectancy of over 100 years and OEM level compatibility and performance consistency. Unlike traditional mechanical hard disk drives, Corsair solid state disk drives have no moving parts. This results in faster system responsiveness, quieter operation and reduced overall system temperatures.

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