gardengnome's Full Review: Apple iBook G4 12.1 in. (M9846LL/A) Mac Notebook
The iBook G4 was the first Macintosh computer I've owned. Upto that time I was a PC user even though I was well versed on using Macs.
What I wanted: Like many I was getting tired of all the security issues with Windows. By the time I loaded all the additional security software to prevent ads, pop-ups, spyware, viruses, trojans and a firewall backed-up by another firewall a good chunk of RAM was used up. Then I had to remember to update all that software at least once a week if not more when there was a specific threat. I essentially wanted a way to go online without all the hassles and threats but I also wanted something that would still run my Windows based genealogy programs.
Why I bought: My kids started putting pressure on me as they use Macs without all these worries. My son decided to sell one of their Macs so I bought it to see how I would like using Mac only. It was bought by him new so I knew I was getting a good deal.
What I bought: Apple iBook G4, 12 inch screen, 800 MHz PowerPC G4, 256 Memory DDR SDRAM, 30 GB Ultra ATA hard drive and factory installed software.
What I bought as optional features: wireless mouse, 512 MB DataTraveler, Virtual PC
Performance: I must say I had a lot of reservations about this laptop. First the screen was a lot smaller than what I was used to and from the get go it just seemed to easy. Power it up, hook to the internet and go! Forget all that security software just do what you want online. The very first thing I did was take it through the paces for open ports, several tests. I was impressed! This computer performed flawlessly with ports secured and NO security issues with only the built-in firewall. After seeing that, I began relaxing and was more interested in what the computer could do.
The computer has a touch pad something I find ok for short term use but not for constant use so I added a wireless mouse. One portion of the mouse plugs into a USB port while the mouse part is used as a regular mouse with roller ball. The iBook G4 instantly recognized the new hardware and without a blink kept on going. There wasn't even so much as a message! The same thing happened when I connected the Epsom printer. I didn't need a disc or anything, the computer just recognized it right off the bat. When I bought a new HP printer, again no disc needed! I find this amazing after having fighting to get software to install on a PC sometimes. Then I tried downloading a Mac software online just to see what would happen. None of this walk through all the windows for installing. Simply click the icon, unzip, drag to Applications and there it is. Click the one arrow to release the dmg and drag that over and the download over to the trash. It cannot get any easier than this! This computer works flawlessly with my PDA (Sony Clié) although because of the age of the PDA I did have to update the software. I works flawlessly with my digital cameras (FinePix and now Canon) with no additional software.
As mentioned, I wanted portability which is why my first Mac was a laptop. I do a lot of genealogy research. I have two problems with the first being my genealogy software is Windows based only. I solved this with Virtual PC. The programs run slower but they run problem free with only a click of an icon. I take a lot of digital images when doing genealogy research so with the simple connecting the digital camera to the iBook G4 I can easily upload the images to the laptop to free up my camera memory card. All that takes is carrying the camera connection cord with you which doesn't take up a lot of space.
We did the same thing when travelling as I take a lot of pictures! What we also did while travelling was used the iBook G4 to watch DVDs. The clarity of the screen was amazing. It was crisp and clear. The battery lasted well so I have no complaints there.
What I like: I love the portability and function. For such a small computer the iBook G4 packs a lot of punch. Not only does it have a built in modom but it is alos AirPort ready for wireless and Bluetooth can be easily installed. I like that is is not a heavy weight computer. I can pack the iBook G4 into my backpack on wheels and when I get to a research centre, it takes little space something that is important. The portability is wonderful for travelling! This computer sees a lot of mileage not only for research but for vacation.
Bottom line is I really like the function. I can go online without worrying. I can use Windows based programs if I want. The computer comes with a lot of very useful software so that is a non-issue.
Apple iBook G4 PowerPC G4 1.33 GHz 12.1-inch Notebook General Features: Thin and lightweight Mac OS X 10.4 pre-installed PowerPC G4 1.33 GHz proce...More at Geeks.com
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