Notes from a new computer

March 30, 2005

After three years, I replaced my trusty iBook with a younger, thinner, aluminum version of itself.

In many ways, it doesn't feel like a new computer, because all of my same files and settings are in place. Moving files from one Mac running OS X to another is incredibly easy. By simply connecting the two computers with a firewire cable and running the OS X Setup Assistant, the new system acts just like the old system, with the same files, applications and settings. And, the new system is noticeably faster.

The form is essentially the same as the iBook, although noticeably smaller. The one major difference is the keyboard. The keyboard on the Powerbook is significantly better than the keyboard on the iBook. It feel much more solid and the keys seem to be spaced better.

It is very refreshing to use a portable computer that is fully functional as a portable computer, with a battery that lasts for more than 30 minutes at a time. I am not missing the random interruptions and spinning beachballs caused by a hard drive on its way out.

The only drawback of the Powerbook is fan noise. When plugged in, the fan runs, which is noticeable. The slower and cooler iBook either does not have a fan or never had a need to run the fan.

Now, the question is: what to do with the iBook? Its resale value is minimal, as it needs a new battery and a new hard drive to be fully functional. Plugged into AC power and a firewire hard drive, it may make a useful iTunes and DVArchive server.