Segway Human Transporter (HT) i Series
by Enroute Solutions Inc.
Average Customer Review:
Electronics

US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Early Adopters Pick: November 2002. World's first dynamically stabilized Human Transporter; forward and backward maneuvering guided by rider's natural motions.

The Segway Human Transporter (HT) is a truly 21st-century idea. A two-wheeled electric vehicle that's practical, efficient, slightly miraculous, and an undeniably fun way of getting around, it's as different from a bicycle or motorcycle as the original personal computers were from their lumbering, mainframe predecessors.

Control
In our tests, we rode the Segway HT in a variety of indoor and outdoor environments. Zipping along on the little platform was so steady and comfortable, we quickly forgot how much technology was at work to keep us balanced. The Segway HT moves forward with cues from your body language--the subtle leaning you use to balance yourself while walking or running. When you lean forward, the Segway HT goes forward. A walking lean produces a walking rate, a steeper running lean can bring the machine to its top speed of 12.5 mph. The Segway HT stops when you right yourself again.

Steering is controlled separately with a small twist-grip on the left handlebar. The Segway HT's two-wheeled design makes it quite agile--it can do sharp turns and turn completely in place. Sharper turns require slight leaning into the turns, as you'd expect, but the Segway HT helps by actively regulating turn responsiveness based on your speed. One small complaint: using a throttle-like control for turns instead of acceleration did take some getting used to, but the inconvenience was minor and went away over time.

Overall, we were surprised how quickly we were able to get comfortable on the Segway HT. A novice can be underway in seconds (with supervision) and ascending ramps and turning figure eights in minutes. After training and a few hours of use, a rider should feel comfortable with a wide range of activities.

Riding
The Segway HT moves briskly along on both paved and rough terrain, taking ruts and potholes bumpily but with no loss of control, even for the beginner. Modest hills were ascended with ease and without much discernable effort. All things told, the Segway HT seemed rugged enough to provide reliable transportation in pedestrian environments ranging from rural trails to the sidewalks of a congested city. And utility aside, it's worth stating that the element of machine-assisted balance was a continuous delight. We simply had more control over our movements than we previously could have imagined possible. This was particularly true on downhill rides, where our body language had a degree of command over gravity so unusual that it produced a dreamy, floating feeling.

The Segway HT is not a medical device; if you can't easily stand upright or endure some jostling on varied terrain, it will not solve these problems for you. But while the Segway HT cannot provide balance that the rider doesn't already have, its responsiveness brings a subtle beauty to the rider's movements. We watched more experienced riders start, stop, swoop, and turn as gracefully as figure skaters. In fact, the machine's ease of use could create some overconfidence. The Segway HT has not suspended the laws of physics--its wheels need traction. While the machine will keep itself level under almost any situation we could imagine, a careless rider who drops a wheel over a curb, or tries to turn too quickly on a slippery surface, certainly could take a tumble. Segway advises that riders wear a safety helmet (like a bicycle helmet) and start out in the Beginner mode before moving on to the faster settings.

User-Friendly Design
The Segway HT's controls are simple. A single round display on the handlebars shows either a smiley face (meaning "get on") or a frown face ("get off"). A graphic surrounding the face indicates the battery level. The Segway has no brakes--slowing down involves the same process as acceleration--and its gentle rate precludes any need for a speedometer. We timed its startup speed from the off position to ready to ride: pressing an encrypted "key" to the key port (the key looks like a large watch battery on a plastic fob), hitting the start button, and waiting for the smiley face to come up took a little more than one second.

This machine is clearly designed for close interaction with pedestrians. Its footprint is only a bit wider than a large man, so we were able to do things like ride comfortably in an elevator with another Segway HT rider and a pedestrian, with an almost disappointing lack of bustle or incident. The machine can haul 75 pounds of cargo and still support a 250-pound person, though you'll need touse the HT's soon-to-come mounted accessory bags for any serious buying trip.

Usability
Having ridden a Segway HT, we think almost anyone would be delighted to try this machine. Inevitably, however, one must ask about how usable it is. Clearly, it isn't a car: it won't carry multiple passengers or much luggage, go long distances, or protect you from the elements. Still, we thought of many circumstances where the Segway HT could be a fun and practical alternative to other modes of transportation. We can see potential users as regular folks traveling to and from work each day, students and professors in college towns, city dwellers who take many short trips, retirees in Sunbelt resort communities, vacationers traveling with RVs, and people with easy access to nature trails and walkways.

Well-Built Construction
We had the opportunity to look into the guts of the Segway HT in its pre-assembled state. Inside it was clean and simple, and the few moving parts, such as the gears, struck us as rugged and well made. There are no cooling fans; the circuits and engine are cooled through their contact with the platform's heat-drawing aluminum casing. Each finished HT is tested both at the software level and for quality riding on an obstacle course in the assembly plant. See the technical specifications for more information.

Conclusion
We're convinced that anyone who tries a Segway HT will be smiling in minutes. The other advantage is that early purchasers will certainly be the first on their blocks to have one. But for how long? We think we'll all be seeing much more of the Segway HT in the future. --Erik Hammen

Pros:

• Very high build quality
• Environmentally friendly, extremely energy efficient
• Requires little storage space
• Newness factor--you've never ridden anything like this before
• Fun to ride, and looks cool

Cons:

• Purchase price may be prohibitive for many potential users, though the cost is partially offset long term by nominal upkeep
• Laws regarding legal riding areas (sidewalk versus street) vary from state to state
• Minor inconvenience: rubber plug-in protectors on the machines seemed a bit loose, flopping around a bit on the more rigorously used machines, inconsistent with generally excellent build standards
• Accessories, like carrying bags and lights, will not be available until spring 2003

From the Manufacturer
The Segway Human Transporter is the first transportation product to stand, balance, and move in the same way we do. It harnesses a unique technology called "dynamic stabilization"--the result of more than a decade of research, development and testing, and tens of thousands of hours in field trials--to constantly monitor and balance the Segway HT and rider.

The Segway HT allows riders to travel short distances in dense environments that would be prohibitive to other transportation devices. An amazingly elegant design makes the Segway HT a part of you, sensing subtle changes in your balance and responding immediately. The Segway HT has a level of maneuverability never before seen on wheels--it can balance in place, move forwards and backwards, and turn in place.

Purchase of a Segway HT includes a training session on its operation and features, in order to properly prepare a new rider for safe and enjoyable operation of this new technology.

See Segway HT Advantages.

About This Offer
Because of the unique and revolutionary nature of the Segway Human Transporter, we advise you to read Segway's Purchase, Safety, and Ownership Guidelines when considering placing a deposit. The guidelines describe the terms and conditions of sale, the product warranty, and the details of the Segway HT Early Delivery Contest. Also, the guidelines will help you understand any restrictions or regulations relating to its use in your state. After placing your deposit for the Segway HT, you will receive an e-mail from Amazon.com on behalf of Segway that has the contest entry form. ... Read more

Features

• World's first dynamically stabilized, self-balancing Human Transporter
• Forward and backward maneuvering is guided by rider's natural motions
• Easily navigates most walkable areas, including paved surfaces, dirt roads, grass, and inclines
• Emissions free, powered by rechargeable NiMH battery packs
• Fun to ride--a unique experience

Reviews (104)

Pure transport JOY!
Let me tell you, there is no better way for a human to be transported than the Segway Human Transporter.I was getting tired of walking on my legs, then I got an iSeries Human Transporter for my birthday.That day changed my life.I now can have any girl I want and have made millions on the stock market.How many human tensporters can do that for you?

There are many fake Human Transporters out there.This is the only Human Transporter that will fulfill all of your wildest dreams.

Keep an eye for the Segway Rocketpack Humanoid Flying Modulus.It is in the near future.

Wonderful Tour + Toy but...
It's not very functional.

I had the opportunity to tour Chicago downtown on one of the city architecture tours with segways for about three hours. I can't tell you how giddy I was to get on one. I had seen policemen patrolling around parks and airport with them. It took me about two minutes to get into the balance of it. The controls were very intuitive and easy to use. The whole system is sorta dummy proof. It shuts down itself if you get off it, it refuses to go past a certain speed limit (in fact, almost pushing you off of it after you reach a certain point), and it can stop on a dime.

After using it for a couple hours and after reading a couple reviews here, I have to agree- the segway isn't really intended for more than an expensive toy. It's not comparable to a mopeg or a bike. Our tour was about two hours and half long and at the end of it, my battery was almost at its end. We only went around the Lakefront and to Millenium Park and back to the Adler Planeterium, a mere area of a couple miles. And our batteries were dangerously low. The only way I can see myself using a Segway in an every day environment is if I happened to live like ten minutes from work. Past that, and the segway is pretty much a waste. It would take too long to charge and too expensive to replace the battery for it to be cost-effective. I could take a bus, train, or even bike to a destination for cheaper and faster.

This is not a rip on the Segway technology. I just think the machine isn't made to be very functional. On our ride around the parks, I noticed how poorly it performed on uneven ground (gravel, water, grass). Every little bump was almost a thud when I crossed them. I had to be watch out for cracks and crevices when riding it. Things I wouldn't have done if I was riding a bike. This is all based on my experience with the iSeries. I haven't used the rugged version of the Segway and can imagine it would be better but at a thousand more, it's kinda a moot point.

Overall, I'm glad I got a chance to ride a Segway. I was dying to try one. I couldn't contain the smile I had, as I zoomed past staring strangers and an embarassed girlfriend. But, I couldn't see myself buying one, even though, I work and live in downtown Chicago.

This human transporter is alright by me
Well, let me be the first to tell you that The Segway Human Transporter is a wonderful innovation. I'd been waiting a good while for a quality human transporter, and finally, I felt my waiting had paid off. This baby hit the market, I quickly dished out the 5K needed, and the transporting began. Everything was great, laziness was at an all time high, I really felt like the future was now. "Look at me and my transporter" I'd shout, then I'd turn and mumble to myself, "You fools and your walking and non-space age way of transporting." Life was peachy. Then it came, my boss, Gargon IV, said there was a dilemma on the planet Xaoton 99. I was all over it. I had my Segway transport me, (bet you didn't know it was capable of galactic transport) all the way to Xaoton, with the Segway making the trip quite comfortable and relaxing. I arrived at Xaoton and things were all messed up. I soon found myself in a sticky situation, but it was nothing that the Segway couldn't get me out of. Things got ugly. To make a long story short, the Segway overcame a highly advanced Xaotion army with highly highly evolved technology and all kinds of super high tech lazer guns. So the planet of Xaoton 99 came to peace in the end and everyone was happy

And boy was I glad that my knees didn't catch a lazer because I just wouldn't look as cool anymore on my Segway without the lower half of my legs. The Segway is an amazing improvement in human transporting, it's amazing we can look ahead to the wonderful world of hover transporters travelling warp 10. The Segway Human Transporter is a great start, now lets keep the ball rolling.
... Read more

Asin: B00007EPJ6
Subjects:  1. Computerized cart; iseries;Two-wheeled platform; ht;h t;    2. Motorcart; Motion machine ;htiseries;Standing vehicle; transport    3. segwue; sague; sigue; sigway;sigwey;thingy;transportation    4. i-167; dean; kamen; kaamen; kaman;deka; first;167;    5. invention; new;self-balancing;travel;navigate;eye167;pedestrian   

Apple 20 GB 2nd Generation iPod M8741LL/A
by Apple Computer
Average Customer Review:
Electronics

US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Features

• MP3 Audio
• System requirements: PC with built-in FireWire or Windows-certified FireWire card; Windows Me, Windows 2000, or Windows XP Home or Professional
• Includes wired remote control, remodeled headphones, Musicmatch Jukebox Plus software and carrying case with belt clip
• Discontinued by manufacturer, replaced by model #M8948LL/A
• FireWire interface for fastest digital transfer available; covered FireWire port
• Keep up to date with new calendar/scheduler and built-in clock

Reviews (98)

Ipod is rad
I really love my Ipod. It has the coolest UI ever. I figured it out in no time flat.

The MP3 Player that only Apple could make!
As a long time PC/Windows user, I've always been impressed with Apple's equipment, but also always at a distance. After purchasing my new iPod, I'm wondering why I don't have more equipment from them. This product is one of the first I've purchased in some time that delivers exactly on its promises, worked immediately out of the box as expected, and was just too fun and easy to use. In fact, it took longer to install the FireWire card on my PC, then it did to install, configure and start loading songs onto my iPod.

I'm sure you can read the features this iPod offers elsewhere, but let me tell you that all of those features are indeed included and this device performs extremely well and plays songs as well or better than any other device I've owned. In fact, if you're anything like me, once you start using an iPod, you'll wonder what you did before. Playing music from CDs, even my personal mixes, now seems so antiquated.

Assuming you decide to purchase this, here are a few tips: 1) consider the 40GB model. Now that I have this, I wonder if more might be even better (I'm nowhere near my 20GB limit, but more is always better, right?!), 2) consider adding an auto power kit for recharging from the lighter for long trips, and 3) very seriously consider getting the FM transmitter to play iPod tunes over any FM radio (Belkin makes a great model for about $30).

After that, the hardest decision is which songs to load up and play first. Enjoy!

Some Disadvantages of the Apple ipod...
I will make this short..yes, it is user friendly and simplified compared to other mp3 players. BUT it is almost TOO simplified. here are some of the things it lacks.
- No Line In jack for recording
- No USB capability (except for the new version, but that requires you to buy and adaptor
- Cannot drag and drop files like you can on the Archos Jukebox 20Gb (requires Matchbox to modify files on player)
- a bit pricey compared to other mp3 players
- It's Apple, enough said..
- only can create playlists through Matchbox
- since it is firewire and most people dont have firewire cards you much purchase one, but not only that if you ever want to use it as a portable swap drive to share files, the other computer would need the card too. ... Read more

Asin: B00006FDRB
Sales Rank: 18233
Subjects:  1. Mac Macintosh Machintosh Apple    2. Portable Audio    3. MP3 MP 3 Player    4. Jukebox    5. MP3 Player (MP 3)    6. Apple    7. (Mac)    8. (Macintosh)    9. Gigabyte    10. 20GB    11. 20 GB   

Apple Power Mac Desktop M8841LL/A (1.42-GHz DP PowerPC G4, 512 MB RAM, 120 GB Hard Drive, DVD-RW/CD-RW Drive)
by Apple Computer
Average Customer Review:
Personal Computers

US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Apple’s speedy, affordable Power Mac G4 roster is capably headed by the futuristically styled and appointed M8841LL/A Power Mac. If you require the ultimate in power or simply enjoy being on the cutting edge of computer technology, the M8841LL/A Power Mac is well worth your consideration.

Driving this impressive unit are not one but two PowerPC G4 processors, each running at a speed of 1.42 GHz. Although this clock rating may seem low compared with the latest Pentiums, consider that each features an enormous 2 MB of DDR SDRAM Level 3 cache. With 4 MB of fast-access L3 cache, a dual-processor configuration, and 512 MB of fast 333 MHz PC2700 DDR SDRAM memory (expandable to a full 2 GB), the M8841LL/A Power Mac is an extraordinarily fast desktop machine. The one potentially weak link is the system’s graphics card, a 64 MB ATI Radeon 9000 Pro that will easily handle most applications but won’t smoothly render the latest 3-D games. Serious gamers may want to upgrade.

The unit features a variety of data storage and transfer options, including a massive 120 GB hard disk and a DVD-R/CD-RW SuperDrive, through which you can burn and store home movies, record and play audio CDs, and back up important files. Other desirable amenities include one high-speed FireWire 800 port (twice as fast as USB 2.0 for ultrafast interaction with external peripherals such as digital camcorders), two standard FireWire ports, four USB ports, and an Apple Pro keyboard with 15 programmable function keys.

Wired connectivity is available through an internal 56K modem and built-in 10/100/1000Base-T Ethernet interface. Wireless LAN and Internet support is offered via an AirPort Extreme card expansion slot. The M8841LL/A system includes just a single speaker and no display screen, but offers provisions for any level of audio-video configurations. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Fasten your seat belt
The G4 computer really takes you for a fast ride!

We recently upgraded our computer network at the Indiana Literacy Foundation, and the G4 server is at the heart of it. Now, of course for comparison, you have to realise that this is the first upgrade in years, and our old server was a PowerMac 6100. Fast in its day, that day is a distant memory.

We are so happy with the G4. We run a 4D database system that once took an incredible amount of time to process (we would literally click a request and then go get coffee, and it might be done when we returned). Now, it is appears almost instantaneous. Productivity has skyrocketed (and will be much better when I've debugged the 4D upgrade).

Beyond the speed, there are a few features I must comment upon as being above-and-beyond in the G4 server design. I like the fact that it has two power supplies -- if one fails, the other will keep going so that we can arrange downtime at our convenience, and not at the whims of gremlins in the machine. Also, it has a unique fold-down design that makes adding, swapping and repairing things inside a snap. Just unplug the back, lift up the latch, and it's open (no screws to lose inside the machine, no difficult snap-apart manipulations required). There is a security lack that can be padlocked or otherwise secured to make sure the that the internal pieces are safe from unwarranted removal.

We have a small LAN, consisting of the server, 6 other Mac computers, and two printers. This server is serving us well.

A great machine, however...
I have this computer, and I'm writing from it right now.It is a very, very, very good computer, by far the best I've ever had.However, there is news about Apple coming out with a new chip, better chips then the G4, and I mean coming out with these chips sometime soon.I wish I had known this while I was getting my computer.It's perfect if you're going to be doing professional audio/video/image work.I'd get it with 2GB ram, and I have 2-180GB hard drives.
There has been one problem I've noticed.From time to time, the hard drive will almost lock up, and it will take it a good second or two for it to respond.If I'm running iTunes while this happens, it stops the music from playing.I don't know exactly what the problem is, but it's nothing that really bothers me.

It is a very expensive computer, and you should only get it if you know what you're getting into.But I'd wait until they come out with their new OS, codename panther before I got a new mac.By then, I'm sure they'll have a better computer along to go with their new OS.Panther will hopefully come out sometime this year, I think I heard October.

I guess all technology is that way though.The second you buy it, it gets old, and the thing you got is cheaper.So beware that if you're getting this because it's the top of the line, well it isn't going to stay that way for long, and I'd personally wait until they come with their new chips.

Power Mac 1.40 M8814LL/a from Amazon
I hunted for a week and could not decide where to get this machine or if I wanted the 17" Powerbook with the cool keyboard. I saw the M8814LL/A here but it said it had a 2x DVD-R and only one processor which was 1.40. Well it arrived at the estimated shipping time and it is a 1.42 with a 4x DVD-R and wow. Ever had a compute make your heart race?

Now let me first tell you that I am not new to MAC but I have been involved in the PC world since 1983 and never had much to do with the MACs until I found a 233 iMac cheap and bought it for a toy. Well it became the center of my attention and I soon bought a Powerbook G4 Titanium 400. Sweet machine as well but we are here to discuss the 1.42 PowerMac Dual G4 Processors.

The case is heavy, 50 pounds heavy but made very well and has easy access for making upgrades or simple maintenance. I installed another optical drive and another hard drive. The machine has 2 ATA 33 ports, 2 ATA 66 ports, 2 ATA 100 ports and room for 2 Optical drives, 2 hard drives in the back near the ATA 100 and 2 drives up front near the ATA 66 ports. It has 4 OPEN PCI slots. These are restricted to 33 Mhz but it increases the possibilities of upgrading to a new level. The Memory is easily upgraded as I dropped in another 512 meg and there is room for 2 more 512 megs for a total of 2 gigs of RAM.
The machine is faster than the 400 G4 that I had been using to render my movies and photos with. So much faster that I no longer have time to go and fix my lunch. I find myself spending more time on the computer than normal but I am being more productive with my time and may actually get ahead of myself and have nothing to do but watch a movie on the Mac while playing around on the net.
Virtual PC now runs Windows 98 about as fast as a 400 or 500 Mhz PC and it is quite nice to have for that software that you have had for 10 years and just can't part with.
Only problem I have with the machine is that my wife and 9 year old are taking it over as she is involved in scrapbooking and photography while he just loves the cinematic features in Warcraft III on the 19" Cornea DVI LCD. I told him Warcraft will run on the PC but he says it is not as much fun on the PC as it crashes some times and the graphics are not as good.
If you get this computer, then get the big screen. You will not be disappointed. One thing I noticed while at the Apple store, the screens look so small in the big rooms and counters they have them displayed on, but when you get them home they are huge and beautiful.
Do I love my new Mac? Yes.. ... Read more

Asin: B00008CQJN
Subjects:  1. Apple    2. (Mac)    3. (Macintosh)   

Apple PowerBook Notebook 17" M8793LL/A (1.0-GHz PowerPC G4, 512 MB RAM, 60 GB Hard Drive, DVD-R/CD-RW Drive)
by Apple Computer
Average Customer Review:
Personal Computers
list price: $3,294.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Early Adopters Pick: February 2003. The world’s first laptop computer with a full 17-inch display and widescreen dimensions.

With the stunning PowerBook 17-inch G4, Apple merges incredible power, a 17-inch widescreen display (the largest display of any notebook and the same screen dimensions as a 19-inch CRT monitor), and an impressive array of conveniences into a state-of-the-art aluminum alloy enclosure. A true desktop replacement in every sense except in its remarkably space-efficient, 6.8-pound, 15.4-by-10.2-by-1-inch stature, the PowerBook 17-inch G4 is ready for anyone who appreciates and can afford the cutting edge of mobile computing technology.

The PowerBook 17-inch G4 ensures you’ll stay connected in any environment. For wireless situations, the unit features integrated 802.11g AirPort Extreme--the fastest wireless connection available on a Mac--and new Bluetooth support. For traditional setups you’ll find a host of wired connections, including high-speed 10/100/1000Base-T Ethernet facilities, a low-speed 56K modem, one IEEE 1394 FireWire and two USB 1.1 ports, and a variety of audio and video ins and outs. System controls include a unique fiber-optic backlit keyboard with laser-etched keys that’s right out of the future. It even features a light sensor that automatically adjusts the keyboard and screen brightness based on the available ambient light. Average battery life is estimated at an admirable 4.5 hours.

The unit is built for speed from the ground up. Driven by Apple’s dynamic 1 GHz PowerPC G4 CPU (256 K of DDR SRAM Level 2 cache, 1 MB of DDR SRAM Level 3 cache), a generous 512 MB of PC2700 DDR SDRAM (expandable to one full GB), and a powerful 64 MB nVidia GeForce4 440 Go graphics processor, the PowerBook 17-inch G4 is ready to handle virtually any application you can throw its way. To help you load, store, and transfer all your important programs and data, Apple has included a monstrous 60 GB hard disk and a versatile DVD-R/CD-RW SuperDrive optical drive through which you can record home movies and video, burn audio CDs, and back up critical information. ... Read more

Reviews (10)

Great machine with it's limits
Very nice screan is the first thing you'll notice here. The side to side angle of view is pretty wide, while the top to bottom isn't. You'll need to have the screan angled directly at you for optemimal viewing. The promised battery life is a joke of course. Without using the optical drive at all you might get 2.5 hours from it. I suspect the promised 4.5 hours happens only if the hard drive never moves and backlighting is off. It does seem to sleep for a good long time on battery though. As others have mentioned, the cooling system is a bit awkward. You have to keep the machine on a hard flat surface or it will overheat. The track pad is really awkward and I really dislike it. You cannot tap the pad instead of clicking the button the way i can on my addesso keyboard. That means mouse chores are two handed. The last down-side i can think of are the built in speakers. Don't expect much here, they're only basic speakers not loud enough or full frequency. You'll need to hook up something external to get a decent sound.

On the up side; This a nice slim design and the machine seems very stable. I have not problem putting it to sleep and taking to and from my office. (Be prepared to pay extra dough for the 17 inch carry case. I payed $... for mine!!!) It comes loaded with OS 10.2 which is a solid dependable OS. Among other things i use it for Final Cut Pro and deffinately adding the extra 512 ram is a good idea. The 1ghz speed is nice, handles big jobs smoothly. The reason I got this one instead of the 15 inch was because i thought i'd like extra screan realestate. I do think it's worth the extra $... Finally I can goof off and watch a dvd on this thing in my office. That's pretty cool;)

Bottom line is this an expensive machine with lots of plusses and several minuses. I'm glad i got it and would get it again. Just, don't expect too too much.

Best computer I ever had
This is the best computer I ever bought. I stopped using Macs after buying the Apple IIc (a long, long time ago in a galaxy far away) but when I saw the 17" I thought it was perfect.
I runs great and is perfect for business when you want a desktop replacement product.
The only problem with it is the weight which sometimes is exhausting when carrying around for a complete day or on business trips. But that's a small price to pay when compared with the incredible benefits it provides.

Great, but not good for portability
Ive had my powerbook for 1 1/2 years now and I there are two unignorable problems I have.Otherwise the powerbook is a great purchase.

My first problem is that the computer cools itself by conduction through the bottom.As a result, the bottom gets really hot, which is a total bummer when you're literally using the computer on your lap.Also, because of the design, this computer will overheat when placed on a carpet, or bed.If you want to keep the computer quiet and working efficiently, you got to put it on a flat table.

Second problem for me was the hinge which connects the screen to the rest of the computer is weak and snapped.It was hyperextended accidentally because my little brother was throwing pillows around.The old clamshell iBooks could have taken the beating.

Finally, the monopoly Apple has on replacement parts (such as power adapters) can be counted as a negative. ... Read more

Asin: B000087BHX
Subjects:  1. PowerBook    2. (Power Book)    3. Notebooks (Note Books)    4. Notebook Computers    5. Laptops (Lap Tops)    6. Apple    7. (Mac)    8. (Macintosh)   

The monitor comes with two 3-watt speakers built into the bezel, driven by a stereo amplifier. A panel protector guards against accidental damage to the LCD. The VP230MB has a detachable base and is wall mountable. Despite the huge image area, the monitor measures just under 23 by 23 by 10 inches. It has an antiglare coating, is PC and Mac compatibile, and is supported by a three-year limited warranty. ... Read more

Features

• 3X-LCD technology for ultrafast video-response time
• Wide 170-degree viewing angles; PC and Mac compatible
• 1,600 x 1,200 resolution
• Accepts analog and digital DVI-D inputs
• Integrated speakers and stereo amplifier

Asin: B00005NCR3
Subjects:  1. 20 inch Monitor (Monitors)    2. Flatpanel Monitor (Flat Panel Monitors)    3. Mac Macintosh Machintosh Apple   

Canon XL1S MiniDV Digital Camcorder
by Canon Video
Average Customer Review:
Electronics (08 August, 2001)
list price: $4,999.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Small enough to carry around and costing not much more than a top-of-the-line consumer camcorder, the XL1S produces such high-quality results that it is sure to be the top choice for many independent filmmakers who demand full features and controls. Like its predecessor, the XL1, this camera uses three separate 270,000 pixel CCDs (one for each primary color) for the best picture quality. The XL1S records digital audio, with two channels of 16 bit/48 KHz sound or four channels of 12 bit/32 KHz sound. The body is based on a magnesium-alloy frame for maximum durability. It ships with a 16x optical zoom lens with optical image stabilization, but is also compatible with other XL camcorder lenses. With an optional adapter, you can use Canon EF (EOS) still-camera lenses--some of which also feature optical image stabilization.

The electronics of the XL1S have many advanced features, including a number of programmed AE modes, as well as both shutter and aperture priority modes. There are two different auto modes, one of which allows you to adjust any setting manually, if you want, and the other, which adjusts every setting automatically and lets you adjust nothing. A spotlight mode automatically compensates for difficulties when shooting a subject bathed in a spotlight. The computer-shooting mode gets rid of monitor flicker that happens when shooting a computer screen. There are also three different shooting modes: normal movie, digital photo, and frame movie. Normal movie mode is for any time you want to shoot video footage. Digital-photo mode records a still image for six seconds on the MiniDV tape and also captures any accompanying audio for a commentary track. The frame movie mode records 30 noninterlaced still images per second, instead of capturing 60 fps interlaced images. This mode isn't intended to be used for shooting video (playback may not look completely smooth). Rather, frame movie mode should be used as a burst, or continuous, shooting mode, like you'd find on a still camera.

The XL1S offers many new and updated features over the XL1. There is a 16:9 shooting mode where electronic lines draw are displayed through the viewfinder so you can compose your shots flexibly for later conversion to HDTV, where 16:9 is the standard. SMPTE color bars help establish a proper color reference for shooting and editing. Interval recording lets you shoot time-elapsed motion video with intervals from 30 seconds to 10 minutes. Zebra patterns help you determine overexposed areas in your shot so you can adjust the aperture and shutter accordingly.

Digital Video Format and IEEE 1394

The XL1S is a consummate professional creation tool that supports the established industry standards, MiniDV and IEEE 1394. Support of these standards make the XL1S a flexible video creation tool that interoperates with standard DV equipment and computer editing systems as accorded by engineering, scientific and broadcast communities.

DV Format Technology and Its Advantages

The MiniDV format supported by the XL1S delivers more than 500 lines of horizontal resolution -- a 25% improvement over analog systems. The DV format allows for near lossless transfer within digital editing environments for faster creation, increased productivity and improved production quality of final prints.

IEEE 1394 (DV Terminal)

The XL1S comes standard with a DV terminal that conforms to IEEE 1394 for digital transfer of video and sound, in addition to regular video and audio outputs. The IEEE 1394 (also known as FireWire®) standard allows editing, copying and recording of digital video over a single cable. This transfer format affords improved image and sound quality and is virtually free from generation loss.

The 3 CCD System

The XL1S maximizes the capability of the DV format by using a 3 CCD (charge-coupled device) system with a separate CCD for each primary color (red, green, blue). A beam-splitting prism separates light passing through the lens into individual color components and each is sent to its own CCD. Compared to a single CCD, the 3 CCD system achieves outstanding detail with highly accurate color reproduction suitable for the demands of high-end video production - wide dynamic range, low color noise, high-contrast detail, natural color resolution and low-aliasing. The 3 CCD system also makes advanced Pixel Shift (for increased image quality) and Low Light Recording (for increased flexibility) possible.

The three CCD image sensors in the XL1S, each with 270,000 pixels, were specifically designed to capture as much image detail as possible and for shooting under extremely low light conditions. The size of each pixel is 72 square microns - 150% larger than the pixel-size on comparable DV models. The result is an approximate 4 dB improvement in sensitivity. This improved sensitivity means that each CCD can capture more information at all light ranges. In super low light, the XL1S still captures crisp and clear digital data. Under extremely bright conditions, the Pixel Shift capabilities of the XL1S greatly reduces vertical white streaks and smears, making it a consummate field recording device for all conditions.

Because human eyes see green more clearly and readily, the green component of a video signal contains 60% of the picture detail whereas the red and blue components together comprise the remaining 40%. With the advanced Pixel Shift on the XL1S, the green CCD is physically shifted the equivalent distance of 1/2 pixel horizontally from the red and blue CCD, and the green signal is electronically shifted 1/2 pixel vertically. This shifting of the green CCD increases the sampling points, resulting in a system that is comparable to 410,000 pixel CCD systems in terms of resolution. With a larger pixel size and the process of Pixel Shift, the Canon XL1S gives wider dynamic range, better low light recording, reduced vertical smears, and high quality still images without sacrificing the highest resolution DV available.

Audio and Video Inputs and Outputs

The XL1S offers a plethora of means by which to get audio and video in and out of the camcorder. The XL1S is designed to handle two types of analog video input and output: using audio/video cables (composite) or S-video. There are four audio inputs and outputs. All connections are on the camera body.

What's in the Box

• XL1S Camera
• Zoom Lens 16x XL 5.5-88 mm IS
• BP-930 Battery Pack
• CA-910 Compact Power Adapter
• DC-900 DC Coupler
• SS-1000 Shoulder Strap
• WL-D32000 Wireless Controller
• SP-100 Shoulder Pad
• S-150 S-video Cable
• STV-150 Stereo Video Cable
• Lens Hood

... Read more

Features

• NTSC
• Three shooting modes: Normal Movie, Digital Photo Mode, and the cinema-like Frame Movie Mode and shoot in 16:9
• Record for up to 90 minutes on one battery charge
• Professional-quality MiniDV camcorder and still camera with 3 CCD lens
• 16x optical zoom lens (digital zoom to 320x) and image stabilizer
• Interchangeable lens system--can use Canon EOS lenses with optional adapter

Reviews (19)

great camcorder
i am currently in high school, in the media tech department. we do the school news, and produce some films. we currently have 3 kinds of camcorders, the sony dsr200, sony dsr300, and the canon xl1. most of the class perfers the xl1 for many reasons.
it is definately the easiest to use, it is very light weight, and has many options that other cameras just dont have. it has a firewire port directly on it to help get onto computers, though there are other ways.

i have personally used this camcorder, and i must agree, it is a wonderful piece of technology. a few months ago i had bought one of the new Sony handycams that burns to miniDVD, and i had nothing but disappointment, now i am looking into an XL1 of my own, because i know how to use it, it is easy to learn how to use, and there is so much more that you can do with it then most camcorders. if you are looking for something professional, and yet decent in price, you might want to consider the canon xl1

Canon XL1s - Be Wary of Service & Waranty
Canon still seems to have problems with it's lenses and how they interface with its electronic components, which means a blurry picture.For Canadians, there is only 1 service department in Calgary, while customer service is in Ontario.Imagine the bills trying to track down your camera over 2 provinces.Canon has somehow managed to keep this issue under wraps but it is a good idea to investigate where your nearest service department is and what kind of return time you can expect on repairs.The XL delivers great shots and definately looks the part, which can be important, but if it's not in your hands then it won't do much good.

Good Enough
As of now, the XL1S is a little outdated by some other cameras that are on the market, but the end product has very desirable results. I have used cameras like the Panasonic DVX-100, and the XL1 will suit your needs at least 90% of the time that the DVX will. There is no LCD screen, but the viewfinder does sort of double as one and the overall shape of the XL1 makes it unwieldy at times, and more convenient at other times.

Overall, if you have the chance to get this camera, then go for it if something like the DVX is out of reach. The XL2 is coming out soon apparently, which will probably drop the price of this camera and it would be a great opportunity for people on a smaller budget to pick up a camera that is capable of cinema quality pictures.
... Read more

Asin: B00005NKXS
Subjects:  1. Camcorder (Camcorders)   

Microsoft Office XP Developer Edition
by Microsoft
Average Customer Review:
CD-ROM (31 May, 2001)
list price: $799.00
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Office XP Developer provides the tools and features to enable developers to make use of the new functionality in Office XP, as well as enhancements that ensure developer productivity. This release offers improved Component Object Model (COM) and integration with Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) throughout Office. You can quickly develop solutions using common programming techniques that are familiar to your corporate developers. Microsoft Office XP Developer includes enhanced development tools and documentation for developers building Microsoft Office XP solutions.

You can quickly build business solutions leveraging pre-built components. Microsoft Office XP Developer delivers tools and components that enable the development of Web-based collaboration, workflow, and data-driven solutions. Quickly deploy applications into an environment that is familiar to end users, reducing training time and support costs. Microsoft Office XP Developer provides all of the necessary tools for easily deploying and managing Office XP solutions. ... Read more

Features

Reviews (7)

Marvelous Product Kudo's Microsoft
This is an fantastic Office product that delivers. The suite of products is excellent and the developement tools make for a faster development time. Open Source products may be good to play with but the mainstream industry does not readily support open source suites. They are slow (if you like the slowness of JAVA) and not well supported IMO.

This is SO much money! Try OpenOffice before buying
...If you're an intense Access or Excel macro user, you might want to go with this.

Anyone else can get go to openoffice.org and download that office suite instead. Or get StarOffice here. You can do so many of the same things. Open or create Word files, do all the stuff you can do in Word, save'em back as Word format or not. Make web pages. Do mail merges, hooked up to any database you want. Do presentations. Impress is the PowerPoint equivalent and reads those file formats. It's got good effects and animation. Do all the spreadsheets you want. The Excel equivalent handles Excel formats and lets you save back out in that format or not.

And the openoffice and staroffice file sizes are tiny. If you've ever been really annoyed by bloated MS Office file sizes, you are going to love openoffice or staroffice. Really small files.

Put the money in your 401k. Skip MS Office.

No Monakeys!
No, No No! No monakeys here!Makes me Heep and scream. You see the digital dashboards--laugh in the back.Why do yo ask? Why is there why, or why equals how. That's it now!With the program, you are unstoppable.Not to forget the web power of cling. Yes Yes Yes!!Take that away though, you have monakeys with apebates.Take care of those socks. ... Read more

Asin: B00005BL28
Subjects:  1. Computer software (programs)    2. Office Suite (Suites)    3. Bundle (Bundles)   

Zenith P60W26P 60" Plasma Flat-Panel HDTV
by Zenith
Average Customer Review:
Electronics
list price: $19,999.95 -- our price: Too Low To Display
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

This 60-inch plasma HDTV monitor uses groundbreaking display technology to deliver superior image clarity, color, and brightness in large-format television that's less than 4 inches thick. Its 1,280 x 720p resolution produces extremely detailed imagery, and its super-sharp (550:1) contrast ratio delivers rich colors and deep blacks. High brightness (500 cd/m2) gives you an incredibly bright picture, even in well-lit areas.

Aspect Ratio Correction intelligently resizes video and computer images to 16:9 widescreen or 4:3 conventional formats, while Zenith's Intelligent Image Scaling uses a Faroudja/Sage scan converter to seamlessly convert TV video data to PC formats without distortion or cropping of images (in either 4:3 or 16:9 aspect ratio).

RS-232 controls and NTSC, HD, VGA, SVGA, XGA, and SXGA inputs makes the unit compatible with DVD players, VCRs, computers, digital broadcasting, multimedia, and traditional video sources. ... Read more

Features

• 1280 x 720p resolution renders images in stunning detail
• Extremely sharp (550:1) contrast ratio for dynamic images with super black blacks
• 500 cd/m2 brightness delivers incredibly bright pictures, even in well-lit areas
• Aspect Ratio Correction intelligently resizes video and computer images to 16:9 widescreen or 4:3 conventional formats
• 60-inch plasma HDTV monitor with depth of less than 4 inches; 57.3 x 34.8 x 3.9 inches (W x H x D)

Reviews (3)

I Actually OWN one, unlike the previous reviewers
This TV is Big!The picture is fantastic, I read and reviewed hundreds of Plasma's before purchasing this television.I considered purchasing a DLP, LCD, even a front progection system.When it came down to it, this plasma kicked all of them out.The picture was better than all of them.No matter the brand this plasma was the best picture.Some complained to me about the 25,000 hour limit on the screen UNTIL I told them.25,000 MEANS watching TV 4 hours a day...the TV would last 17.12 years.In 10 years every tv will be obsolete.
[...]
Again, this review is for the TV.The TV is fantastic, everyone who comes over says, "Wow!" or "Blank (fill in the blank), that's nice."
I have no problems with the TV, it looks nice and runs great.What more can you want?
I posted this review because of all the research I did looking for a plasma only to find stupid reviews from idiots that had never seen or owned one, only fools that had seen the picture and said, "that looks nice."
Hope this helps someone.

Great Picture in a Big Set
I've seen this monitor on display at a retail outlet and wish I could afford to buy one.The picture is bright, crisp, detailed.Colors are vivid.It's presence is rivaled only by the Toshiba 50HP82 and the Panasonic TH-50PHD5UY, both 50" screens.The Zenith has PIP (like the Toshiba), many other plasma sets do not.You need an external tuner, like the Sony SAT-HD200 (if you have Directv) and speakers are extra.If you have no budget and you really need 60", the Zenith is the one.Make sure you search online retailers for the best price.

Real good tv
The tv is one of the best i have gotten so far.It was given to me as a present from (...) but when I turned it on, it was the best. The Picture is clear,and very lifelike, I say on of the best tv's out there, there is no flaw in it, I think the price is right for a TV this good ... Read more

Asin: B00006HCJN
Subjects:  1. plasma television, flat screen    2. hd-tv, hdtv ready, plasma tv    3. plasma monitor, p6026, p-60w    4. enroute    5. Television (Televisions, TV, T.V., TVs)    6. HDTV (HDTVs)    7. High Definition Television    8. p-6026, p-60w26, 6026, 60w26   

Power, Size, and Contents
The camera is powered by a rechargeable NiMH battery pack (included). It measures 6.1 by 6.2 by 3.1 inches and weighs 2.8 pounds. This package includes the EOS-1D digital camera body (no lens), battery pack and battery charger, DC coupler kit, IEEE 1394 (FireWire) cable, neck strap, hand strap, and EOS Digital Solutions software, Adobe Photoshop 5.0 LE Disk, and USB drivers for Windows and Mac. ... Read more

Features

• 4.15 million (2496 x 1665) effective pixel CCD sensor - 28.7 x 19.1mm in size; square pixels measure 11.5 x 11.5 microns
• Large sensor means less adjustment & compensation for 1.3x focal length
• Cast magnesium alloy body combines strength, rigidity, and magnetic shielding
• Withstands environmental extremes
• Superb image quality, with minimal digital noise, superior highlight and shadow tonalities, wide contrast

Asin: B00006I53Z
Subjects:  1. Digital Camera (Cameras)    2. Photograph (Photography)