Apple recently “quietly” updated their PowerBook G4 line of notebook computers. When I say “quietly” it’s not that the new PowerBooks aren’t better, faster, have cooler features, or are less expensive. They are all of the above. It was a relatively “quiet” announcement because they’re still “PowerBook G4s” and not “PowerBook G5s”. Those of you using a PowerMac G5 or iMac G5 know that the G5 processor can put out some heat. Wedging the little blast furnace into a notebook-sized enclosure is still a ways off. Expect Apple, as they usually do, to wait until they can do it right and with panache. In the meantime, the G4-based PowerBooks are still very capable machines, and the recent updates make them more so.

Here’s what doesn’t change. Still three models. 12-inch (now 1.5 GHz), 15-inch (1.5 GHz and new 1.67 GHz) and 17-inch (1.67GHz). Of course, all these dimensions are diagonal screen measurements. Same aluminum-based form factor. Still every connector you’ll need for audio and video. Still built-in 802.11g wireless networking.

Here’s what’s new. Bigger standard hard drives. 60 GB for the 12-inch, 80 GB for the 15-inch, and 100 GB for the 17-inch. 512 MB RAM standard across the line. Faster 8X SuperDrives for DVD burning. Built-in Bluetooth 2.0, for (up to three times) faster connections with keyboards, mice, digital phones, PDAs, etc. Note that there are really no Bluetooth 2.0-capable accessories out there yet, but there will be.

All models come with at least 64 MB of dedicated video memory, and the 17-inch comes with a nice 128 MB card that can connect to Apple’s breathtaking 30-inch Cinema Display. The 15-inch model gets an upgraded lighted keyboard for working in low-light environments.

All models also come with what Apple calls “Sudden Motion Sensor”. Sudden Motion Sensor senses changes in axis position and accelerated movement. Should your PowerBook be running and it falls or is dropped, the Sudden Motion Sensor instantly parks the hard drive heads, reducing the risk of damage and data loss.

Also new to the line is a clever new trackpad with scrolling capability, like a scrolling mouse. With the feature enabled, simply drag two fingers (instead on one) over the trackpad to scroll vertically, horizontally, or pan around any active window. Haven’t used it yet, but it sounds cool.

Check the online Apple store for pricing.

© 2005 Peter F. Zimowski