Features

• 256 MB of memory for over 4 hours of MP3 or 8 hours of WMA music
• Secure Digital card/MMC expansion slot provides up to 512 MB of additional memory
• Built-in FM Tuner
• 18-hours of continuous playback with one AAA battery
• Compatible with computers with USB 1.1 ports running Windows 98 SE, 2000, ME, XP, Mac OS X

Reviews (149)

pretty cool
I'm not an expert on electronics but this is the 2nd mp3 player I've owned. I chose to buy this mp3 player for work inside a warehouse handling package and for use at school, walking around. Overall, I'd say its a pretty good player but there are some questions about the durability and lifespan of it.

Pros:
-cheap price compared to other mp3 players of the same memory
-expandable memory
-durable design...supposedly waterproof (not anxious to test that claim tho)
-acceptable yellow color and appearance
-nice joystick function (in my opinion anyway)
-GOOD wrap around ear phones (just wanted the basics)
-very nice looking and durable belt clip (never used armband)

Cons:
-battery life (1 AAA is only 8 hrs for me...equals only about 2 days of work and campus use, but then again I'm going to buy rechargeables anyway)
-software use (isn't as easy to use as it could be, kinda confusing sometimes)
-*** Once had a problem with the player when it only played 39 songs when I actually had 50 or so on it, worrisome error***
-can only create playlist on software (quite common tho)
-*** list of songs is always alphabetized, NOT BY WHAT ORDER THEY ARE SET UP IN ***VERY ANNOYING***

In spite of these cons tho, I'm happy with my purchase and would buy them as gifts to other sporty and gymgoing friends.

Great workout player, but cludgy for file transfers
I've used this Rio Cali 256 for a few months now, and it plays awesome! I added a 512MB SD card and can fit 13 hours of MP3 music and play it all on 1 battery! The Music Manager application is good for categorizing and transfers, but I used another application to rip my CD collection. You have to use the Rio Taxi if you want to transfer data files, it does not show up in Windows explorer as a drive letter. Taxi is a very tempermental application. When trying to transfer large files (over 8MB) via drag and drop it crashes. It seems to work when right-clicking the large file and choosing Save Item As, then picking the folder where you want to copy it to. Really large files (over 100MB) don't seem to copy at all; the application times out. Can't understand how I copied a 165MB file to the Rio but now can't copy it off the Rio? Copying files to the Rio gave me no problem, just transferring files back to the PC. Copy and Paste doesn't work at all. Since I use this 99% of the time for working out and listening to MP3's, I give it a 3 out of 5. You're better off with a USB jump drive or something similar if you want a small product to transfer files.

Music 5 of 5
File Tranfers 1 of 5

Great player for the gym
This MP3 player is great for the money...it's durable, sounds great (radio reception not great - but why would you buy an mp3 player for radio reception?) Head phones sound good but are uncomfortable. My girlfriend borrows mine all the time - so this holiday she will be getting one from me!

junk junk junk
Thank god that I purchased the 2 year waranty. I have had this MP3 player for a few months and I was impressed at first even if the radio reception stinks. However, recently the mazimum download will be 19 songs, because of "non-existent" errors. The screen has frozen with the word Upgrader on it, and ive tried to upgrade it but it is still frozen on the screen. I am very dissapointed with the Rio Cali and would not reccomend it.

Great Versitile MP3 Player!
I am so impressed with the Cali that I bought for my husband that I'm going out to get one for myself! I love the easy-to-use software! I found that you can easily download a MP3 upgrade (for FREE!) in order to RIP songs into MP3 format as well as WMA, FLAC, and OGG! It's lightweight, has an FM Tuner, an expansion slot for additional storage space, and is designed for an active lifestyle. What more do you need? I too had a little trouble at first with the ear buds, but quickly got used to them. When in use, they drown out nearly everything else going on. I love it! I stumbled across this one and have since looked at what else is out there. This is the MP3 player for me! ... Read more

Product Description

iLife '05 Family Pack ... Read more

Features

• Easily perform, record, and create music with GarageBand
• Fun-to-use suite of tightly integrated creative tools
• Import, organize, edit, and share digital photos with iPhoto
• iMovie HD quickly turns home video into home cinema
• Create Hollywood-style DVDs with iDVD; iTunes digital jukebox

Reviews (1)

Great update
iPhoto 5 is a great update. It does lots more, and on a dual processor G5 really flies! It does have a bit of a funky response if you tweak the saturation of a photo in extreme highlights (window in a backlit situation) where the whole area of complete white goes a funky color. But just undo what you by reverting to the original and start over. iMove and iDVD are good updates too with the new 16:9 ratio and some really nice themes. Better performance, and more functionality. Garageband with recording up to 8 lines in at once is a major improvment, especially being albe to see notes appear as you write your music! It may not be Logic Express (also owned by Apple) but it really works well. Garageband alone is worth the upgrade.

And if you're an education professional, there is a great price break! ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

A notebook computer is all about portability, so why should your network cable keep you tethered to one place? The D-Link DWL-650 PC card Type-II 11 Mbps 802.11b wireless LAN adapter, known as the D-Link Air for short, gives you back your mobility, letting you connect to your home or office wireless network from whichever desk (or couch) you happen to be at. Plus, as wireless networks continue spreading to hotels, airports, and even coffee shops, it will help you keep connected no matter how far you travel.

The DWL-650 installed easily, as a PCMCIA card should. We just ran the setup program from the included CD and plugged the card into an empty Type-II slot on our notebook PC. Windows XP immediately recognized the card and installed the drivers. Then, using the D-Link configuration utility, we configured it for our specific LAN. Once connected to the LAN, the little green LED on the end of the card stopped blinking, telling us we were good to go. The printed manual and online help gave helpful guidance on getting the card installed and connecting to our network.

As we tested our wireless setup, we reveled in the freedom the D-Link Air gave us. Using it in a two-story house, we were able to go from room to room, never losing our Internet connection. We even could go outside on the patio and browse the Web from a chaise lounge. Of course, the card worked equally well in an office environment, letting us take our notebook from the conference room to the lunchroom without losing our network connection.

In general, we found that the construction of the walls between the wireless card and the access point had as much to do with reception quality as did distance. So, for instance, if you're separated from the access point by several thick walls, reception will be much poorer than if a glass partition is all that separates you. The manufacturer suggests a range of up to 328 feet indoors and up to 984 feet outdoors, and we found that to be a decent approximation of the maximum range you can expect. The D-Link control utility has a graphical status bar that shows the wireless signal strength, so it's easy to know when you've wandered too far.

At 11 Mbps, the speed's plenty fast for most uses, like browsing the Web, accessing a file server, updating a database, etc. You can also configure it to transmit at slower speeds, depending on your network environment. The card supports both 64-bit and 128-bit WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) encryption, a vital feature that keeps your communications secret.

The D-Link Air will keep you well-connected whether at work, at home, or through a public WiFi (wireless fidelity) network at places like an airport or coffee shop. Since it's a PCMCIA card, it's easy to swap in and out if you need to use a wired connection in some places and wireless in others. Bottom line, if you have a notebook PC and have access to wireless capabilities, you'll love the freedom of movement this little card delivers. --Ken Feinstein

Pros:

• Easy installation
• Uses IEEE 802.11b standard for broad compatibility with wireless networks
• Supports 64-bit and 128-bit encryption
• Good range

• Not as fast as a 100 Mbps Fast Ethernet wired connection

Features

• Data transfer rates up to 11 Mbps
• Fully compatible with 802.11b products
• Plug and Play
• 128-bit WEP data encryption for a secure wireless network
• 3-year limited warranty

Reviews (139)

Recommended Buy if on a Budget, but still want Quality
I bought this because a friend of mine has a D-Link Wireless Router and I like to use his Internet Connection because I still only have a 56K. Since he already has a DI-713P I didn't have to make any configuration changes to my DWL-650 PC Card. Everything worked out of the box. I did have to change my network settings a bit, but the manual shows how all of that is done. Coupled with his DI-713P I get good signal strength anywhere in his home, even a little bit outside. Once I can afford Cable Speeds I will definately have this set-up, or whatever might replace the DWL-650 or DI-713P int he future. The sure thing is that I will buy D-Link ofr it's ease of use and reliability. I am a very pleased customer.

2 out of 3 worked great
I bought 2 of these cards and the router initially and had no problems setting up and getting online. Shortly after that, one of the notebooks started having connection drop-outs. When I applied pressure to the card the connection would restore but it frequently caused the computer to freeze, even during the boot sequence. Since I had 2 cards and wasn't having any problems with the second notebook, I tried the working card in the first notebook and it worked perfectly. In other words, one of the cards I got had a defective connection. It was past the Amazon return period and frankly I was too lazy to contact D-Link for a replacement. I picked up another card later and it works fine.

Both working cards have been working great for months and I have never experienced any connection problems whatsoever. I have also not noticed any decrease in network speed compared to the land line. I recommend the card with the caveat that there seem to be quite a few poorly made ones out there.

You get what you pay for
I initially purchased the DWL 650 (although for some reason, the user's manual calls it a DWL 500) to run a D-link router. Worked OK with a Windows98 OS, but since I recently upgraded to Windows XP, all sorts of problems ensued. Evidently, D-link provides no driver for XP, (the CD provided crashes XP, so don't use it!)so I had to download the driver from D-link site for the DWL 650H (no idea what the difference is between 650, 650+ and 650H). Works only OK now, but signal strength greatly fluctuates, and frequently cuts out (not that the crappy D-link router helps matters).

Before you buy this card, note the price, and remember that you get what you pay for.

Poor connection/signal quality
I bought this card off a yahoo.com store. It does not always connect to the available wireless network. It is not even compatible with Windows XP - the installation says so, it is not digitally verified by XP. While it is able to detect the network, it just won't get connected. I use it on my campus' wireless network. While people around me can connect to the network using their wireless card, mine just refuse to do it. Although sometimes it does connect, this is not a very reliable card.

Pretty Shoddy
I suppose the range etc. are fine - I haven't tested it directly against other cards but qualitatively performance seems fine.

It has an annoying installation where you have to have the CD-ROM available at the same time as the card. If you are installing on a laptop without a CD-ROM, by sharing the drivers from a networked CD-ROM, this will make installation more annoying and mystical.

It has a very stupid and irritating constantly brightly flashing "active" light during normal operation.

It installs a utility which can only be run by administrative users, but tries to run itself under any user, so that normal users get a stream of error windows filling their screen. It's very stupid in this day and age to assume that everyone on a machine will have administrative privileges.

All in all, a thoroughly disappointing purchase. I've had good luck with D-Link products before, so the general lousiness of this particular one surprises me. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Sony's stylish, pocket-size Cybershot DSCP100 digital camera offers an amazing 5-megapixel resolution and a wealth of photographic features normally found on full-size, high-end cameras. About 1 inch thin and weighing less than 6 ounces, it's easy to carry wherever you may roam. The DSCP100 also features a 3x optical zoom, Carl Zeiss optics, nine-shot burst mode, and a high-resolution movie mode that's limited only by your Memory Stick's capacity.

Optics and Resolution
The DSCP100 features a Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar zoom lens--the first time this lens has been used with a Cybershot P-series camera. The Vario-Tessar lens is specially constructed for very compact cameras, and its design allows for quick autofocusing. It has a 3x optical zoom and 2x digital zoom, for a combined 6x.

The 1/1.8-inch Super HAD (Hole Accumulation Diode) CCD allows more light to reach each pixel, increasing sensitivity and reducing noise, and provides a 5.1-megapixel effective resolution (2,592 x 1,944). The Real Imaging Processor offers greater clarity and picture quality, improved response time and battery life, and decreased shutter lag.

Movie Mode
Capture video with audio at 30 frames per second, VGA size (640 x 480); the included 32 MB memory card will store 87 seconds at this setting. Movie length is only limited by the amount of storage you have on hand. Video Mail mode captures a smaller movie (160 x 112 pixels) that's more suitable for e-mailing to friends and family.

More Features

About Multi-Pattern Measuring

Independently light-metering 49 points of the frame, Multi-Pattern Measuring establishes an optimum exposure value, even for scenes in which pronounced highlights and shadows are not centered in the frame.

• Resolution Modes: 2,592 x 1,944 (5.1 MP), 2,592 x 1,728 (3:2 aspect ratio), 2,048 x 1,536 (3 MP), 1,280 x 960 (1 MP), and 640 x 480 (VGA)
• 1.8-Inch LCD Monitor: The high-resolution 134K LCD makes framing shots and reviewing pictures easy.
• Live Histogram Display: Available for capture and playback, the live histogram displays pixel concentration for each luminosity value, making it easy to determine correct exposure.
• Selectable Focus Mode: Monitoring Autofocus helps you anticipate action by focusing even before you press the shutter release.
• Five-Area Multi-Point Autofocus: By evaluating five separate focus areas in the frame, Sony's Multi-Point AF system can intelligently focus on the subject and avoid mistaken focusing on the background.
• Autofocus Illuminator: Briefly illuminating the subject in low- or no-light conditions, the AF Illuminator helps establish a positive focus lock.
• Multi-Pattern Measuring: Independently light-metering 49 points of the frame, Multi-Pattern Measuring establishes an optimum exposure value, even for scenes in which highlights and shadows aren't centered in the frame.
• Multi-Burst Mode: Captures sixteen 320 x 240 frames as part of a single 1,280 x 960 image which plays back sequentially (selectable intervals 1/7.5, 1/15, and 1/30 second).
• Manual Exposure Mode: Shutter speeds adjustable in 46 steps (1/1000 to 30 seconds) and two-step aperture control.
• Scene Selection Mode: With nine scene modes, parameters can be matched to shooting conditions. Choose from Twilight, Twilight Portrait, Landscape, Soft Snap, Candle, Snow, Beach, Fireworks, or High-Speed Shutter.
• Slow Shutter Noise Reduction: During long exposures, Slow Shutter NR captures the scene, and then the CCD noise pattern with a dark frame exposure. By subtracting one from the other, even long exposures can be clear.
• Pre-Flash Metering: With a momentary pre-flash, the camera illuminates the subject and sets exposure through the lens for accurate flash metering. Adjustable flash level and redeye reduction ensure great flash shots.
• Nine-Shot Burst Mode: Capture up to 9 shots (fine) or 15 shots (standard) at 1.2 frames per second, even at 5 MP. Perfect for high-speed subjects or fast-moving action, including sports.

About Slow Shutter Noise Reduction

This process captures the scene in two exposures. The second subtracts the noise pattern from the initial shot, resulting in a final photograph that is beautiful and virtually noise-free.

Direct Printing
The Cybershot DSCP100 offers PictBridge functionality, which enables you to transfer pictures from your digital camera to a compatible printer--such as the Sony PictureStation DPP-EX50--without a PC or image-editing software. Images can be viewed and selected for printing right on the camera's LCD, with menus for print quantity, date, and index.

Storage and Transfer
Images are stored on Memory Sticks, and the Cybershot DSCP100 is compatible with Memory Stick Pro media for storage up to 1 GB. The included 32 MB Memory Stick will store 12 fine and 23 standard 5.1-megapixel images. The DSCP100 transfers images to PCs and Macs via a speedy USB 2.0 connection (which is backward-compatible with USB 1.1 ports).

Power and Size
The camera is powered by a rechargeable Sony InfoLithitum (lithium-ion) battery, which provides reliable, long-lasting power for continuous shooting, with no "memory effect" (see "Tech Talk," below). The included adapter/charger provides power while you transfer images from your camera to your PC.

It measures 4.25 by 2.13 by 1 inch (W x H x D) and weighs 5.8 ounces without the Memory Stick.

What's in the Box
The package contains the Sony DSCP100 digital camera, a 32 MB Memory Stick, a rechargeable InfoLithium battery (NP-FR1), a battery charger (AC-LS5), A/V and USB cables, a wrist strap, and a CD-ROM with photo editing software for Windows PCs.

Cybershot Station and Photo Vault
The Cybershot DSCP100 digital camera is compatible with two optional add-ons from Sony that can help you present your photos or store them when you're on the go. The Cybershot Station (CSS-PHA) charges the camera's batteries while enabling you to play photo slideshows on your TV. The included infrared remote controls the camera while it's docked in the station and makes it easy to send pictures to PictBridge-compatible printers.

The optional PhotoVault mini-CD burner eliminates worry about running out of space on your Memory Stick when traveling. It burns images to mini CD-Rs without a PC interface--just connect it to your camera with a USB cable. The PhotoVault also has a Memory Stick slot (compatible with Memory Stick Pro and Duo) and features built-in photo-album functionality, letting you display photos on a television screen using the TV's standard AV input.

Tech Talk

• Memory Effect: A phenomenon that occurs when rechargeable batteries are continually operated to a low level (such as 25%), then recharged. In such cases, the batteries can end up losing the rest of their capacity. Lithium-ion batteries, such as Sony's InfoLithium, aren't very susceptible to this effect, and NiMH batteries are at even less risk. NiCad batteries, on the other hand, are the most susceptible.

Features

• 5-megapixel sensor (2592 x 1944 pixels) for enlargements up to 20 x 30 inches
• 3x optical zoom plus 2x digital zoom for 6x total
• Carl Zeiss optics; 9-shot burst mode; high-resolution movie mode with sound
• Compatible with Memory Stick and Memory Stick Pro media; includes 32 MB card
• Powered by lithium-ion battery (NP-FR1); connects to PCs and Macs via USB 2.0

Reviews (15)

Well made fast easy to use camera
My excellent f717 was stolen so I purchased the P120, the black version of the P100 that includes an extra battery and belt wearable carry case. First thing you notice is the excellent 'only Sony can do this' build quality. Sony are not so good at large items, but excell in the small stuff. The second thing you notice is the speed of all features. Soon as you press the power button, the lens zips out right away and you're ready to shoot quicker than you can get your finger on the shutter release! Shutter lag is virtually non-existent. Sony's new improved independent menu navigation buttons are better than the previous all-in-one joypad. The picture quality DETAIL is not as good as the f717, but then, the lens is far smaller, but the speed and responsiveness is twice if not thrice as good. Movie mode is almost DVD quality with a Memory Stick Pro (640 x 480 at 30fps). What really made me buy this camera (and not buy another 717), other than the lovely compact design, is it's manual controls. While limited, you can adjust both the shutter and aperture, although only two f stops. I have only had the camera a few days, but can tell from what I have tried that Sony have fixed most of the flaws in their other compact digicams to deliver an outstanding piece of engineering that I shall be wearing on my belt everywhere now to snap that 'Koda', no, 'Sony' moment! :-)

Buy this now!!! It's worth every cent and much more!!
This camera has to be one of the best cameras out there. When i first got it I noticed its sleek design. Its so small and light. It fights in the palm of my hands and I can carry it anywhere. I actuallly noticed too that its basically smaller than my nokia 6800 cell phone which is shocking. anyway the camera has a nice 1.8 inch LCD screen. The photos look amazing when you view them. When you are dealing with this camera you also get the FASTEST performance. The camera starts up in like 1 or 2 seconds and it shoots with NO LAG. Even if you are shooting with flash the shot to shot time is awesome. The zoom pops out very fast too which also makes a funny noise. i don[t reallyh ahve to explain the picture quality because you know Sony is always EXCELLENT with that. Others say that canon is better but I think Sony's a tad better well atleast with this camera anyway. The movie mode on this camera is comparable to a camcorder. It shoots VGA (640x 480) at an option of 15fps or 30fps. 30 fps is basically smoother but requires about twice the memory so 15fps would be sufficient for any user. To tlel you the truth i bought this camera for the movie mode too because its much better than the Canon S500. Lastly, the battery is outstanding. You can shoot pictures a little over 3 hours worth. I recommend geting the accessory kit from sony (comes with battery, case, wallet thing) about $65 on ebay and a 256mb memory stick card or 512 memory stick pro card. You can get the 512mb one for under $120!!

Oh and I forgot to mention the cool accessories available for this beastily camera. You can get 1.7X telephoto lens, 2.6X lens (turns ur compact camera to almost a 8X optical demon, lol), .7X wide lens, marine pack (underwater case) and external flash (some say the flash on the camera isn't bright enough so people buy external separate ones)

Low light pictures
I'm thinking of buying this camera and wanted to know from the owners of the camera if this camera takes excellent pictures like Canon in low light/indoor conditions. I currently own a Sony DSCP9 Cyber-shot 4MP Digital Camera and it takes crapy pictures in low light conditions (even indoors). The skin tone is extremely grainy. Your honest experience with indoor and low light pictures would be greatly appreciated (especially skin tones).

Nice pocket camera
This is my sixth digital camera. I've had my DSCP100 for about three weeks and am generally impressed. I'm quite pleased with the colors in the images and with the auto-focus speed. I'm a little bothered by the number of blurry images I get, but I attribute that to getting used to the very light camera (actually, no one I've handed it to seems to get past the tendency to move/jerk this tiny camera during exposures).

The Sony's 640x480 video clips are certainly markedly improved from the 320x240 days, but be aware that they aren't equal to the quality one would expect from a camcorder. I do notice that the autofocus tends to change focus too much during video capture and this highly transient focus can detract from the quality of the video clips. I recommend a really big Memory Stick Pro to record lengthy videos at the highest quality.

Punchline: while it isn't perfect, it's pretty hard to beat the combination of size, cost and performance. I do not regret my purchase.

Awesome camera, you can't go wrong with this one!
After months of searching for the perfect ultra-compact camera I came down with Canon S500, S410 and Sony P100. I then decided to go for the Sony P100 and that's one perfect decision I'll never regret. This camera is awesome and you can't go wrong with it. As advertised, its lightning fast and its battery life is unbelievable. I used this on a 5 day museum hopping in Chicago, and in those 5 days I took hundreds of pictures and several videos and only needed to charge my camera once! While my friend who has a Canon S410 had to charge his camera everyday. Picture quality is also excellent and is the same if not better than Canon's. But with a better movie mode, LCD screen, battery life and speed, there's no way you'll choose Canon over this one. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product description

Combining exceptional technology with a range of thoughtful features, the Plantronics CT14 frees your hands while you carry on clearly audible conversation for up to five hours at a time.A convertible headset provides options for over-the-ear or over-the-head styling; either way, a "firefly" light at the end of the microphone signals that you're in conversation. The dialing unit includes a back-lit LCD screen, 100-station caller ID memory, and 10-number speed dial--all in a compact size that clips easily onto your belt or pocket. An AC adapter is included, along with a lithium ion battery that provides an average of 5.5 hours of talk time or 14 days on standby. Plantronics provides a one-year warranty covering parts and service.

What's in the Box
Telephone base with charger, remote dial pack, convertible headset, AC Adapter, warranty card, user guide ... Read more

Features

• 2.4 GHz digital spread spectrum, cordless-headset phone
• Ultra-compact dialing unit with belt clip
• 5.5 hour continuous talk time
• Convertible headset
• 1-year warranty

Reviews (11)

Tops for Comfort & Sound Quality
I have owned a couple hands-free phones in recent years and find this to be a big step forward in sound quality, comfort, and size.

The boom microphone is excellent. It doesn't reach around in front of your mouth the way old-fashioned headsets did, which is an advantage. A red LED at the end flashes to let people know you are on the phone.

Drop the phone into the base unit and it charges automatically, giving you about 5 hours of talk time. A stalk on the base unit swivels up so you can hang the headset up when its not in use.

Comfort is so good you can forget you have it on (I wore it out to my car the other day. Doh!). The handset has a belt clip and there is a shirt clip to keep the cord out of your way. You can switch the ear piece and mic from one ear to the other in about three seconds. Likewise, you can pick up the headset almost as quickly as you could a regular phone.

Range is good. I pace around my office and don't find the signal degrades, although walls, partitions and doors will obviously shorten range. If you need more range than this offers, you probably need a cell phone.

Build quality and metrials are both excellent. It takes normal wear and tear and has been dropped several times with no ill effects. Design is modern and attractive.

The only shortcoming worth noting is ergonomic -- I had to dock it one star because the buttons are needlessly small (think TV remote circa 1990), though they are clearly marked and easily readable.

Recommended.

Great for home office
When in my home office, I am on the phone 5-7 hours a day. I have tried many combinations of phones and headsets and have never been satisfied with the voice quality. I also run a wireless network and have had problems in the past with 2.4 Ghz phones causing interference. The Plantronics CT12 is the answer to all my problems:

* portable - small belt unit is light, offers great battery life and includes all the features I need
* great headset - sound quality is equal to that of a handset (people do not know you are on a headset); comfortable with two fit options, Firefly function is nice bonus
* Caller-ID - included on belt unit, works as expected
* 2.4 Ghz - range is good, does not cause interference with my wireless network (previous phones from Panasonic and others have)

Only negative is that you cannot answer or otherwise use the phone while it is charging (must remove the belt unit from the charger). All in all, highly recommended.

Not a "Lady's Phone"
While performance of this phone is great - fantastic, in fact, I think the functionality of the phone is a bit clumsy for women.

The range is great. Audio is crystal clear. No interrupts on our wireless-g network, save one small glitch with the laptop, resolved by changing channels.

The belt clip is for belts, not slacks or skirts. Women don't always wear belts. It needs more tension or a tighter grip to be able to hold on to the thinner materials women wear. I tried using the clip to hook it to a long key lanyard, worn around the neck, but it was too heavy/clunky to be worn that way comfortably.

Problem 2 - headset or over the ear? Again, a "woman" issue - small ears prevent me from comfortably using the over the ear ear/mic. Using the headset is great with the exception of a little too much tension on the ear causing a sore spot, earpiece cover isn't soft enough to accommodate even small earrings (conforming foam would have been better).

Recommendations to the manufacturer - it would be *great* if, after you fix the tension issues w/ the beltclip, you could fix it so the belt clip would mount in either direction. What I mean is wearing the unit upside down would allow you to read/see display & buttons when looking down at it.

Lot's of Wireless Networking issues
I purchased this phone with high hopes of using it as my primary home office phone. The phone directly interferes around 50% of the time with my 802.11.B wireless network. Since the phone channel can not be fixed, the Plantronics CT12 will randomly knock me completely off the network. No amount of calls to Plantronics or fiddling with my wireless channels improves this problem. Thier answer is that the channels are choosen by the phone and there's nothing they can do. I've returned the phone for a refund.

The other problem is that the phone can not be used while it's in the charging base, so you'll need to have another office phone for when the battery runs low.

If it weren't for these two major issues, it's a nice phone with clear sound and the little red light on the mic boom is cute.

Happy with it
I've had mine for a week or two now. It's one of the best things I've ever bought. It sounds clear and no one has any trouble hearing me. I haven't had an opportunity to test its range yet. I do have a few qualms with it. Really they are more like suggestions for the next version of this headset.

They need to come up with a better way of attaching the headset cord to the control box. I first tried just plugging in the cord straight into the control box like the diagram shows. Unfortunately the first time I accidentally knocked the unit off my belt and the control box reached the end of the slack in the cord the headset plug popped out of the jack in the control box. After that I started looping the slack through under the belt clip. That way the connector is pulled down into the jack rather than up and out of the jack. That helped. I don't knock if off very often. There's probably a slick way of engineering better cable management. I just can't think of if at the moment.

I also wish I could set the microphone sensitivity. The mic picks up my breathing from time to time. I've tried placing the mic below my chin and even up as high as my nose. It's not catching actual wind. Instead it's actually picking up the sound of my breathing. Being able to adjust the sensitivity would be nice.

The only suggestion I can think of is for the engineers to make it easier to blindly find more of the important buttons. Only the "5" button has a raised dot in the button surface to tell the user where his finger is. It would be nice if the Talk and End buttons also had something unique on each to guide the ever blind finger. Mute is also likely to be used blindly. It wouldn't hurt to give that button a texture as well.

Other than that I'm really happy with this unit. I've wondered if I could use a 802.11b access point in bridging mode to extend the range of this unit. It's possible I suppose... ... Read more

Features

• Up to 4,800 x 9,600 dpi resolution, 48-bit color, 16-bit grayscale
• Epson scan and productivity software, Adobe PhotoShop Elements 2.0
• Scans multiple 35mm slides, negatives, and medium-format transparencies
• Copy, scan, save, and scan-to-email directly from the front panel
• USB interface, cable included; PC and Mac compatible

Product Description

Ultra-compact. Full-featured.

More. That’s the word that best describes the 12-inch PowerBook G4.

It has more speed, thanks to a 1.5GHz PowerPC G4 processor. It offers more memory: 512MB, to be exact. It provides more storage, with a standard 5400-rpm 60GB Ultra ATA/100 hard drive. It boasts more power to burn CDs with its DVD / CD-RW combo drive. The only thing less about it is its affordable price.

As Smart as It Looks
Housed in a stunning, scratch- and stain-resistant aluminum alloy enclosure and weighing just 4.6 pounds, this diminutive powerhouse features a high-resolution 12.1-inch TFT XGA active-matrix display with brilliant 1024 x 768 pixel resolution. You’ll marvel at the way this supersharp display fits into such a remarkably small frame: just 10.9 inches wide, 8.6 inches deep and 1.18 inches thin. Perfectly smooth on all surfaces, the 12-inch PowerBook has no doors, protruding latches or levers to break, no external buttons to accidentally press and no sharp edges to catch on your clothing.

Built for Speed
The 1.5GHz PowerBook G4 delivers blazing-fast performance, thanks to the PowerPC G4 with Velocity Engine, which processes data in huge 128-bit chunks and accelerates the data-intensive processing required by next-generation video, voice and graphics applications.

Scroll Mate
Scrolling through web pages or large documents on a trackpad can challenge even the most nimble fingers. That’s why every 12-inch PowerBook G4 features a new trackpad with scrolling capability. Just drag two fingers over the trackpad to scroll vertically and horizontally or pan around any active window. Change this feature to suit your needs: Customize your trackpad settings or turn off scrolling completely via System Preferences.

Handled with Care
Now the 12-inch PowerBook G4 is equipped to help protect your most valuable asset: your data. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

it goes everywhere with me :D
i've been a mac user all my life, i have tried a few windows based systems but they just seem poorly integrated and clnuky and too much trouble, i don't mind playing with them at work for the 'geek factor' but i do all of my music and digital artistry on my macs and wouldn't have it any other way.

since the 12" powerbooks came out i have been drooling over them, but i had a 15" titanium powerbook and then recently got a g5....but when my titanium powerbook practically fell apart, i decided to buy the 1.5hz 12"pb (combo drive).

i absolutely love this thing, its so small and cute but it can handle anything you throw at it, i thought the screen would be too small to do my graphics work on it but i can easily sketch away with my graphics tablet wherever i am.

the battery life is good, its compact and relatively lightweight, made of metal, built very solid and runs osx.what else could you want?!

the one thing i was a little unhappy with was the screen because its just a regular lcd, alot of 'windoze' notebooks are using those nice shiny 'crystal bright' displays.
if apple had those displays in a widescreen form factor on this thing, it would be absolute perfection, bar none.

but overall im very happy with it and its abilities to perform anything i throw at it.
if you are considering one then go to an apple centre and play around with one for a while...i bet you will go home with one, or want to :D

osx tiger is fast, sleek, powerful, futuristic, beautiful.
and below the hood in the terminal you have access to its darwin/unix.
ive never had a virus EVER in my life thanks to being a mac user, no spyware, MUCCCH less chances of being hacked, my titanium powerbook only crashed once in the whole 3-4 years i had it, and my g5 and 12" powerbook have NEVER crashed.
sure it is possible to get a 'lemon' and have problems, it IS a computer afterall and there can be things that go wrong, but overall....macs just work. and in doing so they let you work without screwing around with settings and troubleshooting.

i honestly dont know why people still bother with windows, its primative compared to osx.

A TRUE Switcher!
I am writing this review in order to give you my thoughts on this powerbook versus the last guys that wrote a review about switching. First off there's no way you can compare apples to oranges, or in this case Apple to Windows computers. Because first off Apple's processor is much more efficent in the way it handels information. You can not look at Gzh! there are many more steps involved than just that. Now I will go down the line of "cons" that superman2k3 had.
1 - The screen is small, there's no doubt about it but that's what you have to sacrifice for the smallness of the 12 inch powerbook, and I still do not know what he means by clearity in the font, I can easily read what I am typing, what folders say on my desktop and anywhere else there is typing of FONTS!.
2 - I have 512 mb of RAM in my powerbook. It runs perfectly smooth and flawless. My powerbook 1.5 ghz runs faster than my neighbors 3.0 ghz pentium desktop!
3 - First off with the accessories the $60 mouse he's talking about is the Apple bluetooth wireless mouse. You can get a corded mouse much less. And second of all you DO NOT have to buy just Apple accessories. I have a mini wireless mouse that I got when I had a windows laptop (with windows XP) and to use it on the windows laptop I needed to install drivers and other software, well one night I decided to try it on my powerbook and it worked GREAT! with no drivers, nothing. The manufacturers website never stated it made for a Mac! Only for windows 98, 2000, ME, XP ect.
4 - Now I don't know about you but I personally don't have any reason what so ever to get to my hard drive. With 60 or 80 gigabyte discs I don't think I will be randomly droping new ones in. In fact I don't think I will ever even open up my RAM slot for more RAM. There is just nothing inside the computer I would ever want to mess with. Instead I would just send it in to Apple.
5 - Well in a way this is true. Most software for Windows won't work for a Mac but you can however get a $80 software called Virtual PC made my Microsoft for the Mac computer. This program enables you to run every program made for a PC. And when you buy future programs you will just buy the mac version instead.
6 - What do you mean NON SCROLLING. This trackpad in my powerbook has a built in scrolling function. Just drag two fingers over it in a webpage, a word file (yes Microsoft makes all of the Office suite, Word, Excel, Powerpoint, ect. for Mac) pdf's, Jpegs, you name it it works. And I know it only has a single button but if you need a sort of "right click" just hold down the Ctrl button at the same time. A list (just like on a Windows) pops up.
7 - As I stated earlier you can't compare apples to oranges. The Apple computer will run faster, smoother, and is already pre-loaded with amazing applications that would cost you hundreds of dollers on a PC like iPhoto, but mostly like iMovie and iDVD.
8 - Innovation, give me a break!!! Apple invented the personal computer. They wrote the Mac Operating System (OS) that Microsoft eventially copied back in the 80's. In fact there was a huge lawsuit over it. You can search Google if you want to learn more! And Apple has to compete with PC's everyday. I mean you think about it, a person is not going to buy both an Apple laptop and a PC laptop together! THINK HERE MAN!
9 - You DO NOT have to order any more warrenty from Apple, Apple gives you a one (1) year warrenty for your machine already, in fact better than most PC manufactures, however you may want to purchase the extended warrenty because laptops get a more rugged approach to them then desktops. Now this would be the same case as if I were buying a Dell, HP, Compaq (owened by HP so is relativley the same machine) or any other PC. And they're all in the same price range for the extended warrenty.
10 - As I stated earlier (I seem to have to repeat myself a LOT!) almost all hardware devices work both ways. And software, if you want to keep your PC software you can purchase an $80 virtuall PC software that will run it just fine!

Now I hope I did not make anyone angery by this, it's just the facts. And in conclusion the Powerbook is a remarkable tiny, shiny, all around great machine that has the looks and feel of Apple all around, from the hardware, to the OS it is all Apple (with no viruses or spyware) and the best part of it is that if you ever have any problems at all, because Apple makes the whole thing (inside and out) there is just one (1) number to call for anything dealing with it. Try doing that with a PC company. They'll just refer you to another company who will refer you back. That's if you get an actuall representative! Not just a computer on the other end. Well I hope this helps to clear up any thoughts you may have. I am a TRUE switcher. I went from a PC for five (5) years to a mac for now my 3rd month. And I LOVE IT!

One more thing "Once you go Mac, you'll never go Back!"

~God Bless!~

Faster than My Old iBook, that's for Sure
I have a friend of a friend who works at an Apple store and just recenlty he let me play with all the new stuff, some old stuff too and here is my impression of the new, improved 12 inch PowerBook. First off, and I feel like shouting this, but I won't, "It's about time Apple put out a computer that had enough memory in it to actually run it!" I have an old G3, 14 inch iBook and right off the bat I had to buy more memory, bumping it up to 640 megs, so knowing this baby comes with 512 right out the door, will bring a sigh of relief to anybody thinking of buying one.

The screen is too small for my tired eyes, but if you're young and seeing 20/20 or don't mind reading glasses that shouldn't be a problem. This machine is small and sleek, comes with an Airport Extreme card built in. This model comes with the DVD/CD-RW drive instead of the Superdrive, so you can't record video, but for an extra 200 bucks, maybe you don't want to. Compared to my aging, but still working like a champ iBook, this baby screams. And the 60 gig hard drive gives you plenty of room to load up those MP3s to play in iTunes.

The machine does not, however, come with one of those nifty, light up in the dark keyboards and you don't get a FireWire 800 port, 400 only, but I guess Apple had to give them up, due to size considerations. But as I said, this machine screams, really screams and for 1500 bucks, it's a deal. It would have been nice if Apple could have figured out a way to engineer a G5 chip into the machine, but, I suppose they are still too hot and a fan or fans would have made this silent marvel both noisy and bigger. Anyway all in all I have to say, well done Apple. Five stars and worth every one.

Jack Priest, Sailor home from the Sea

You'll fall in love with this go-anywhere Powerbook!
I made the "switch" last fall when the 20" iMac G5 was released, and was looking to pick up a laptop with the same quality hardware and OS. I knew I wanted an ultra-portable laptop, partially because of the price and partly because a laptop is just not meant to require a desk to use it. (In my opinion, anything over 15" or 6 pounds is a desktop-replacement). I had originally considered the 12" iBook, which is a great value (1.2 GHz + Airport Extreme!) for the money. In the end, after getting the "i"Mac, I though I'd go with the "Power"book. My decision was partially due to the realization my 15 GB iPod is about 60% full, so importing the iTunes collection would have taken up a good chunk of the iBook's 30 GB drive.

It's quite a bit more expensive than the iBook, but you get a faster processor, a disk drive that twice as big and faster, Bluetooth, and an aluminum case that looks stunning. Also worthy of mention would be the new features in the 2005 Powerbooks, namely a scrolling trackpad (I wish my iMac had one now!), Sudden Motion Sensor that'll park the disk heads if it senses that it might have just been dropped, and Bluetooth 2.0, a standard so new there's no peripherals that'll use the 2.0 speeds, only its 1.1/1.2 legacy support. 512 MB is finally enough for standard usage (I can't endorse anything less than 512 MB for OS X), but I still upgraded the memory. Too bad Apple still has 256 MB built-in, as I had to pull the socketed 256 MB SO-DIMM to put in a 512 MB SO-DIMM, unlike the 15" and 17" which come with a single 512 MB SO-DIMM and an open slot.

If you can afford the extra money over the iBook and need the features, this machine will quickly become your pride and joy. If a 30 GB HD is big enough and you won't be doing heavy-duty iMovie editing, I still believe the iBook is an unbelievable price/performance value.

Items to get with your 12" PowerBook G4
There is no question this is one of the best laptops available at a great price. I have a new Sony Vaio laptop as well, which has an outstanding screen, but all comparisons stop there. The G4 12" wins hands down on all other counts, from the full size keyboard, easily accessible ports, etc.
The point of this review, however, is to suggest several items I use with the G4 12". First, a Tom Bihn "Brain Cell" laptop case... works well on its own but even fits in my backpack. This case is light but still strong; I never have to worry about my laptop while on the road. Second, an XT-Stand from GJB enterprises. This raises the laptop to a nice angle and allows heat dissipation while maintaining stability, and is nicely portable as well. Third, a Targus (or other reputable brand) optical two-button mini mouse, which I prefer wired so as never to have to replace batteries (a problem for wireless bluetooth or IR models). That's all you really need. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Whether you're at your desk or in the boardroom, the Linksys InstantWireless network PC Card allows you to share printers, files, and more anywherewithin your wireless LAN infrastructure, increasing your productivity andkeeping you in touch.

The Instant Wireless card gives you the freedom to work your way, from where youwant--letting you take full advantage of your notebook PC's portability whileproviding you with access to all your network resources. A high-powered built-inDiversity antenna means that you're covered--at a distance of up to 150 meters(492 feet) inside and 500 meters (1,640 feet) outside. And since it occupiesonly one Type II PCMCIA slot, you're free to use your other slots for additionalaccessories. ... Read more

Features

• 11 Mbps high-speed transfer rate
• Advanced Power Management features conserve valuable notebook PC battery life
• Compatible with Windows Windows 98SE, ME, 2000, XP
• Rugged metal design with integrated antenna
• Works with all standard Internet applications

Reviews (393)

A good wireless card, once you are past its setup
I telecommute full-time from home and decided to get wireless network gear to allow me to work from anywhere in my house. Based on my previous good experiences with their other products, I decided on a Linksys setup. Setting up the Linksys wireless router was a snap, but unfortunately this "matching" PCMCIA card was not nearly as easy to get working.

Windows ME:

My first few installation attempts were on WinME. The driver installer, on the provided Linksys CD, had problems locating the necessary files it needed to install. The CD was either missing files or the installer was looking in the incorrect folders. Either way, pretty sloppy. Downloading the latest drivers from linksys.com fixed the installation problems. However, I was unable to get the card to make the wireless link with the access point.

Windows 2000:

Frustrated, I switched to the OS I should have installed it on in the first place, Win2k, where the drivers installed with no problems. However, again the card was unable to link with the router.

User Manual:

The manual supplied with the card, at first glance, looks promising. Flipping through, you see quite a few screenshots of their configuration utility (supplied on the CD) and a lot of text. However, I was disappointed and confused once I dug in. The text did little more than label the different configuration utility views and properties in each screenshot, providing little or no explanation for what the setting does and why. I could not even locate an explanation for what the LED's on the PCMCIA card indicated.

The most frustrating aspect of the user manual was the section I needed the most: troubleshooting. The troubleshooting section was a whopping two pages (not front and back) and consisted of three questions.

Linksys Technical Support:

Linksys has 7-day tech support, so I was able to contact them on a Sunday, which was nice. The quality of their technicians is what you would expect - good and bad. I first spoke with a guy for 30 minutes who was little help and, as I later found out, actually gave me some incorrect information. I called back later and managed to get a hold of one helpful technician that took literally 2 minutes to determine the problem and step me through fixing it. I also asked a few basic questions that the manual couldn't answer and the technician acknowledged that the user manual was "embarrassing" and "missing critical setup information".

Summary:

The card works great! While the router sits in my basement, I tote my laptop around the house and am able to work in the living room, back patio, on the 2nd story, etc, and the download/upload speeds are as fast as my desktop, which is cabled directly to the router. Despite the problems I had, I would still recommend the card. If you have trouble configuring it, I would seriously advise skipping the manual and just calling Linksys tech support.

Works Great for me, can't understand the other reviews!
I still cannot understand all the negative reviews on here about both the Wireless 4 port Router / Hub and now the WPC11. Had I gone by the reviews of both of these products, I never would have bought the items.

Let me tell you the opposite of these negative reviews on the WPC11.

I received the card yesterday, followed the instructions sheet installing the software / drivers first, re-booting, inserting the card, re-booting again once recognized and I was immediately on my network. The total installation took less than 5 minutes and I'm writing this review on my laptop in my living room at 11 Mbps, as advertised. Also, I installed this on Windows 2000. I did not have one problem whatsoever.

I am a systems engineer myself but none of my engineering skills were needed other than being able to read the instructions as they were written. I'm not sure why other people have such problems with these items as I've not experienced anything mentioned yet.

I'm 100% satisfied with my card and can't say enough about how well it works and how EASY it was to install. I would definitely recommend to anyone.

If you don't know much about computers, I suggest you use the linksys site, read the directions a couple of times and get familiar before starting the install. Also, I'm sure you can surf the internet for help in installing it if you run into problems - outside of the liksys site.

Good luck and if you're searching for a solid wireless network, Linksys provides a good one!

Reasonable hardware, poor software
I use the WPC11 at home with the BEFW11S4 wireless router. The range is acceptable in our small apartment -- good reception up to 15 feet away from the router, reasonable but prone to cutting out up to 30 feet, pretty unreliable beyond 30 feet -- and the router handles two connections simultaneously pretty well.

However, the software, both that supplied with the card and the updated versions from the Linksys website, is very poor:

- As noted by other reviewers, it is very bad at finding hotspots. I have never had the configuration utility find a network's SSID automatically; I've always had to enter it manually. My partner's Mac is always able to associate to a network automatically, so it can clearly be done.

- There is an ENORMOUS memory leak in wpc11cfg.exe, the configuration utility. I've seen it use over half of my machine's available 256 MB of memory, slowing down the performance of all my other, more important applications.

- The configuration utility has a non-standard user interface. For example, there's no "Help->About" menu item that lets you find out what version you're running. This is a baffling omission, because surely the version is one of the most helpful bits of information you can give the helpdesk. It may seem a small complaint, but it's very frustrating to find out you don't know how to make your software do standard things.

- One of the programs that it installs, vanguard.exe, crashes at least half the time when I start up my Windows 2000 laptop. I renamed vanguard.exe to vanguard.exe.bak, so it no longer gets run on startup, and everything still worked. Vendors shouldn't make you run software that doesn't do anything!

Despite these complaints, the card is an acceptable buy if the price is right; it gets the job done, and the software hasn't annoyed me enough to make me buy a different card. If there's a different card at the same price, though, consider the different card very carefully.

Worst software support EVER.
This is the possibly the worst-supported piece of hardware that I have ever used, and I have been using computers regularly since the Commodore-64 days in the early 1980s. The hardware itself works just barely decently, but the software support is HORRIBLE. Don't buy this card expecting it to play nicely with Windows XP. XP does not even recognize that this is a wireless card, and therefore you cannot use Window's automatic configuration utility. Instead, you have to use Linksys's own utility, which is a total joke. It can't figure out what networks are in the area (so it's almost totally useless if you want to use it on a university campus, at an airport, etc.). And the software appears to have been written by grade schoolers: it is full of typos and misspellings, and if you try to, say, get help, a error dialog box pops up with a blank message -- all you can do is click "OK" to get it to go away. The sloppiness of the software is downright insulting to a paying customer.

Stay far, far away from this card.

Avoid this card & find something else
This card initialy worked fine for me. However as the months went by, the Linksys WPC11 would drop the signal. The connection on this card was so unstable that I could never get a consistent connection to my router for more than 5 minutes. Save yourself the trouble and look for another wireless card. ... Read more

Features

• 1,200 x 2,400 dpi resolution, 9,600 dpi interpolated; 48-bit color
• Z-lid design accommodates thicker originals
• ArcSoft PhotoStudio and ScanSoft OmniPage SE OCR software
• USB 2.0 interface, cable included
• 1-year warranty with telephone support

Amazon.com Product Description

Expand the capabilities of any Motorola MD400 series cordless phone by adding one (or more) MD41 2.4 GHz digital cordless handset. Designed to fit seamlessly into your current cordless system, the MD41 houses the same great features you've come to rely on, including caller ID (with 50 stored names and numbers), visual call waiting, and auto-scanning for superior call quality.

All user controls are accessed through the handset, while caller information is displayed on the handset's four-line backlit LCD. Additional phone features include speakerphone, three-way conferencing, illuminated keypad, walkie talkie function, intercom, selectable ring tones, hold, flash, mute, redial, and many more. The MD41 has a stylish silver design, can be desk or wall mounted, and comes backed by a one-year warranty.

What's in the Box
MD41 handset with base, NiCD battery pack, charging transformer, user manual, one-year limited warranty ... Read more

Features

• Supplemental handset for your existing MD400 series phone
• 2.4 GHz digital signal
• Caller ID with visual call waiting, 50 name-and-number directory
• Handset speakerphone, 3-way conferencing
• Headset compatible, intercom, walkie-talkie function

Reviews (3)

A good phone, but weak battery performance
We've had good luck with the sound quality and range on these phones, but the battery life is terrible (all three handsets have been this way since day one).

If the handset is off the charger for about 2 hours and then you have a call, chances are you'll start to get the annoying low-battery beeps within 10-20 minutes. Because of this, the handsets are generally kept on the chargers at all times, which sort of defeats the convenience of a cordless phone.

Works just fine for us
I have been using this phone for a month now and have had no problems, definately an upgrade over a 900mhz system, and the price difference between the new 5.8 systems makes this an affordable system.

Good Build Quality but Terrible Sound Quality
As I said in my review of the base system, Motorola has on paper a nice looking system with a lot of neat features; but in reality the sound quality is extremly poor to the point of being useless to me.

Also note: in my case the extra handset I bought would not read the "Shared" phone directory the that handsets that came with the system shared so there seems to be different revisions between these handsets and the ones coming with the base units.

After using these for the last 2 months, I can say this whole MD4XX system from Motorola is not recommended by me. I have now gotten rid of them and am much happier with their replacement (Motorola's new 5.8ghz system) ... Read more

Features

• 4 GB model holds up to 1,000 songs; supports MP3, AAC, WAV, MP3 VBR, Audible (6), and AIFF formats
• Mac and Windows compatible; FireWire and USB 2.0 interface for fastest digital transfer available
• 1.67 inch (diagonal) backlit screen displays full song names and more
• More than 8 hour battery life on a 3 hour charge (1-hour fast charge to 80% capacity)
• Comes with earbud headphones, belt clip, AC adapter, FireWire cable, and USB 2.0 cable

Reviews (196)

Small But Powerful
The iPod mini is built from the ground up as a portable device for people with fast-paced lives. It's small and lightweight physical dimensions are perfectly suited to be being placed in a pants or shirt pocket without being a burden.

But don't let its light weight fool you into thinking the iPod mini is a pushover. The 4GB hard drive (3.7 GB actual) can hold about 1,000 songs - enough to last almost three full days. The installed software includes four games; a calendar; a notepad; a contact database; a clock; backlight with timer; an alarm clock; and the abilities to customize the main menu; create playlists; and rate songs. All this is in addition to being able to be used as an external hard drive!

However, the most revolutionary aspect of the iPod mini (aside from it's size and weight) is its control interface. Incorporating the 'Menu', 'Pause/Play', 'Forward' and 'Back' buttons directly to the touch sensitive scroll wheel not only creates simplicity from a design standpoint, but form a user one as well. Accessing these controls is a breeze. Thankfully the touch wheel is designed well enough that accidental pressing of a control is unlikely to occur since you have to press down a bit to activate the button. I'd actually like to see the entire iPod line adopt this interface.

Some people complain that the iPod mini is only slightly cheaper than the 20 GB iPod and offers a lot less storage space. But what you loose in storage space you gain in portability. It is also important to consider that compared to other players of its size and weight, the iPod mini offers much more storage space, many more features, and a better music jukebox in iTunes 4.0.

I want to carry the most music I can in the smallest possible device that offers the best interface and features. For me, that device is unquestionably the iPod mini. If you have similar demands of a portable music device, the iPod mini is sure to become a permanent accessory to your lifestyle.

Small in Size not in Functionality
The iPod mini is built from the ground up as a portable device for people with fast-paced lives. It's small and lightweight physical dimensions are perfectly suited to be being placed in a pants or shirt pocket without being a burden.

But don't let its light weight fool you into thinking the iPod mini is a pushover. The 4GB hard drive (3.7 GB actual) can hold about 1,000 songs - enough to last almost three full days. The installed software includes four games; calendar; notepad; contact database; clock; backlight with timer; alarm clock; and the abilities to customize the main menu; create playlists; and rate songs. All this is in addition to being able to be used as an external hard drive.

However, the most revolutionary aspect of the iPod mini (aside from it's size and weight) is its control interface. Incorporating the 'Menu', 'Pause/Play', 'Forward' and 'Back' buttons directly to the touch sensitive scroll wheel not only creates simplicity from a design standpoint, but form a user one as well. Accessing these controls is a breeze. Thankfully the touch wheel is designed well enough that accidental pressing of a control is unlikely to occur since you have to press down a bit to activate the button. I'd actually like to see the entire iPod line adopt this interface.

Some people complain that the iPod mini is only slightly cheaper than the 20 GB iPod and offers a lot less storage space. But what you loose in storage space you gain in portability. It is also important to consider that compared to other players of its size and weight, the iPod mini offers much more storage space, many more features, and a better music jukebox in iTunes 4.0.

I want to carry the most music I can in the smallest possible device that offers the best interface and features. For me, that device is unquestionably the iPod mini. If you have similar demands of a portable music device, the iPod mini is sure to become a permanent accessory to your lifestyle.

SO CuTE
The funny thing is some people waited for over 3 months to get their mini ipod's, 5 days before christmas my mom went to target to get started on her christmas shopping, and she got the last blue one! The mini ipod is the cuttest thing i have ever gotten in my life, and one of the best gifts! my sister who has a dell music player and for the same price got 9,000 songs laughed at me! grated dell has a better deal, but who really needs 9,000 songs? the mini ipod is light weight so when i go running or i am working out i can't even feel it. although the battery life isn't what it says to be the ipod is still wonderful!

Amazing!
I got my pink ipod mini about a week ago as sort of a pre-Christmas present. Anyway I love it. With the itunes cards which target also sells it is really easy to download music. I would like to suggest that anyone who does get a ipod mini should get an ipod dock, not a mini ipod dock. The mini ipod's are not plastic on the outside like the regular ipods. The ipod mini's have a brushed metal outer case and if you use the ipod mini with the ipod mini dock, your beautiful new ipod will get all scratched up on the front. I hope this helps anyone thinking of buying one of the ipods or mini ipods.

Mini Ipod..definately worth it.
When I first saw the mini Ipods i feel in love with the different colors. I decided to ask for one for my birthday, I got it. I have fallen in love with it. At first I wanted a regular Ipod, but the regular ones hold a TON of music, and since I get bored with songs easily, having a smaller one would make more sense considering my CD collection is quite small since I usually just listen to music on the computer. And when you think about, 1,000 songs.. that is A LOT of songs. You can also just delete the songs you don't want anymore and put new ones on it.

I must say me being a 14-year old girl and being absolutely obsessed with the color pink also persuaded me in asking for a pink mini Ipod. White is just boring.. to me that is. This review probably isn't very helpful, but mini Ipod all the way. ... Read more

Features

• Optical pointing device for right- or left-handed users
• 5 programmable buttons
• Provides more control and accuracy than trackball mice
• Requires no cleaning or mouse pad
• IntelliPoint software included

Reviews (85)

great value
like the title says, this mouse is a great value, sitting between the intellimouse explorer and intellimouse wheel. it fits my hand perfectly too, as it is not as big at the explorer.

fuctionwise, the tracking is unparalleled--the new intellieye scanning at 6,000 times per second makes the mouse virtually skip-free, unlike older optical mice. the 5 fully programmable buttons are awesome too. the inteiipoint software allows you to assign different functions to different buttons, in different programs! i even have a button that saves my document in microsoft word! it's really a brilliant invention.

my only gripe about this mouse is its weight. it is on the light side, and i hear the hollow cluck every time i pick it up when i'm playing a game. i've grown used to it by now, but it took a couple of weeks.

in short, i believe this is the perfect mouse for me. its optical eye works great, the buttons are ingenious, and the low price at amazon.com (...) make this mouse the best bang for your buck!

Got so used to it, needed another!
I got this mouse as a gift and loved it as soon as I started using it. It definitely provides skip-free performance, has a great feel to it, has the scroll wheel, and my new favorite thing - those programmable buttons!
At first I wasn't used to those programmable buttons and I'd accidentally press them getting unwanted results (like going back to the previous web-page when pressing the left button). But then I got so used to it and realized how helpful it was - so much so that I got another one for my work because I kept trying to press those buttons that didn't exist on my mouse at work!
There's definitely no going back to a mechanical mouse in this day and age after so many optical mouses (or is it mice!) are available. But if you haven't used a mouse with programmable buttons before, I'm telling you - give it a try and you won't ever want to go back to one that doesn't have them! And for the price, this one's a good bargain.

Got so used to it, needed another
I got this mouse as a gift and loved it as soon as I started using it. It definitely provides skip-free performance, has a great feel to it, has
the scroll wheel, and my new favorite thing - those programmable buttons!
At first I wasn't used to those programmable buttons and I'd accidentally press them getting unwanted results (like going back to the
previous web-page when pressing the left button, or going forward when pressing the right). But then I got so used to it and realized how helpful it was - so much so that I got another one for my work because I kept trying to press those buttons that didn't exist on my mouse at work!
There's definitely no going back to a mechanical mouse in this day and age after so many optical mouses (or is it mice!) are available.
But if you haven't used a mouse with programmable buttons before, I'm telling you - give it a try and you won't ever want to go back to
one that doesn't have them! And for the price, this one's a great bargain.

Great mouse!
I wound up with this mouse because my previous one was eaten by the cat so it died. Once connected, I just fell in love with this one. It is so much easier to use than a ball mouse and you don't have to clean it, which makes my life tons simpler. My only problem is that the right and left click bars are a little too sensitive so I wind up clicking when I didn't want to. But, other than that, it's just been great and the cat isn't too interested in this one! It has a lot more substantiality than my previous one, is heavier, etc., so it definitely is great quality.

Wouldn't trade it for the world
I bought my mouse two years ago when I received a new laptop. My previous mouse was a ball roller that kept getting dirty on me, so I decided to try an optical mouse because I heard they worked a lot smoother. I got mine at a discount price at our local Target store. I brought it home and hooked it up immediately, and put my old mouse away. I loved it! It is very easy to use and the internet back/forward buttons are a blessing because I don't have to move the mouse all over the screen when going back to another page. It moves easily over any surface, but I did find after a while that it began rubbing the surface off my computer desk and thus I had to buy a mouse pad. I hadn't many problems with it until lately. I have noticed that it doesn't want to move as smoothly as it did when I first got it. If I am playing a game, it can make it hard to keep up. I haven't been as careful and gentle with it as I should have though and that may be why. Anyway, I am thinking of getting a new mouse and will definitely buy another one of these optical mouses, but will be more careful this time. ... Read more

Features

• 7.1-megapixel PowerShot digital camera with a fast f2.0-3.0, 35-140mm (35mm equivalent) lens in a compact body
• New ergonomic design includes an enhanced SLR-type grip for better handling and 2.0-inch LCD panel
• 9-point AiAF for precise and accurate focusing
• 12 EOS-based shooting modes
• Print directly to Canon photo printers or any PictBridge-compatible printer

Amazon.com Product Description

The compact, lightweight HP Photosmart R707 makes taking dazzling photos easy. It offers a 5-megapixel resolution, 3x optical zoom, and new digital image processing technologies that will make it quite difficult to snap a bad picture. It also features a large 32 MB internal memory, compatibility with SD and MMC memory cards, movie mode with audio, manual controls, and a stylish brushed stainless steel body with an ergonomic grip for steady, one-handed shots.

Advanced digital image processing balances brightness and preserves gentle contrasts while suppressing harsh contrast.

Optics and Resolution
The Photosmart R707 has a 1/1.8-inch CCD with a 5.1-megapixel resolution (effective) for 2612 x 1968 pixel images. It also has a 1296 x 976 pixel low-resolution mode. The 3x optical zoom lens has an 8-24mm focal length (equivalent to 39-117mm in 35mm photography). It also has an 8x digital zoom to help you get even closer to the action.

Video and Audio
In addition to still imagery, the Photosmart R707 can also capture high-quality MPEG1 video with audio. It has a high-resolution video setting of 320 x 240 pixels and 30 frames per second. Movie length is only limited by the amount of storage you have on hand (either internal memory or external memory card). You can also capture voice notes of up to 60 seconds in length.

More Features
With HP's Instant Share feature, printing and sharing photos with friends and family is quick and simple. You can select a destination--e-mail addresses, online albums, printers and more--on the back of the camera with a single push of a button. When connected to a PC (either via the included USB cable or via the optional dock), the selected images are automatically printed and/or e-mailed. E-mail recipients see thumbnails of the images right in the body of their e-mail message, as well as a link to the web page where they can view, print and save the photos.

		 
 	In-camera red-eye removal (above) and HP Image Advice (below).	 
		 

The R707 features HP's exclusive Real Life digital image processing technologies (created in collaboration with Texas Instruments), including:

• HP Image Advice, which analyzes photos and then provides tips to users on how to adjust settings to improve future shots, thus helping the photographer learn to take better photos.
• HP In-Camera Red-Eye Removal, which instantly removes red-eye from photos right on the camera without using a PC--an industry first.
• HP In-Camera Panorama Preview, which allows consumers to take up to five pictures that are then combined into a panorama picture composition and reviewed in-camera.
• HP Adaptive Lighting, which automatically adjusts high-contrast photos to bring faces out of shadows and details out of backgrounds. This feature balances brightness relationships between bright and dark areas in a photo, preserving gentle contrasts while compressing harsh contrasts.

• 1.5-inch LCD with optical view finder
• Manual controls: EV compensation, image quality, white balance, ISO speed, AE metering, color, saturation, sharpness, contrast, AE bracketing

Direct Printing
The Photosmart R707 offers PictBridge functionality, which enables you to transfer pictures from your digital camera to a compatible printer without a PC or image-editing software. Images can be viewed and selected for printing right on the camera's LCD, with menus for print quantity, date, and index print.

Storage and Transfer
Images can be stored in the built-in 32 MB memory, or on optional Secure Digital (SD) or MultiMedia (MMC) memory cards. The internal 32 MB memory will store 12 Fine and 23 Standard 5.1-megapixel images. The R707 transfers images to PCs and Macs via a speedy USB 2.0 connection (which is backward compatible with USB 1.1 ports).

Power and Size
The camera is powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery (included). It measures 3.78 x 2.36 x 1.38 inches (W x D x H) and weighs 6.4 ounces without battery and 7.2 ounces with battery installed.

What's in the Box
This package includes the HP Photosmart R707 digital camera, rechargeable lithium-ion battery (model R07), AC adapter, 2 USB cables (1 for PC connection, 1 for connecting to printer), and printed instructions. The CD-ROM include HP Image Zone for Windows and Macintosh, HP Memories Disc Creator, ArcSoift Panorama Maker, and American Greetings Create and Print software. It's backed by a 1-year limited warranty. ... Read more

Features

• 5-megapixel sensor (2612 x 1968 pixels) for enlargements up to 20 x 30 inches
• 3x optical zoom plus 8x digital zoom for 24x total
• In-camera red-eye removal; movie mode with audio at 30 frames per second
• Internal 32 MB memory; compatible with Secure Digital (SD) and MultiMedia (MMC) memory cards
• Powered by rechargeable lithium-ion battery; connects to PCs and Macs via USB 2.0

Reviews (13)

Wonderful little camera
This is my third digital camera. I have owned a Fuji FinePix and a Pentax Optio S4. This camera performs so much better than either one of those. The good points: Great video, crystal clear images, super easy to use, removes red eye after pic is taken, adaptive lighting really works, good battery life. The bad points: a little slower than some cameras when it comes to processing images(but it is worth it), no case or SD card (seems to be a trend with most digitals).

I researched this camera and the Canon Powershot S410 and S500. When comparing the two, the HP had 2 or 3 better features than the Canon. I was hesitant about buying the HP, because it was so new that there was not a lot of customer feedback. I guess the selling point that just made my decision easier was the red eye in camera removal, since I take lots of close ups of my children.

I am so happy with my purchase. I would recommend this camera to anyone. The auto features make picture taking a no-brainer, but if you do want to get creative, you can adjust almost anything, in the manual mode.

A+++

HP Delivers with the R707
HP finally delivers a Camera that puts themselves above the crowd. I've been a fan of HP for a long time and the HP R707 is a big jump in quality from their previous cameras. The first thing I noticed was the speed. Everything from taking pictures to navigating the menus was lightning fast. HP has also packed the camera with great software. Built into the camera are features for removing red eye, making panoramic scenes, adjusting bad lighting in pictures...ect. The camera also does not use double A batteries, which I always burned through on my previous cameras. I was able to use the camera continuously for about two hours constantly using the flash and lcd screen with the lithium-ion batteries.

I had no problems with the software and the camera was synced in under 10 minutes. I really like the Arcsoft panoramic maker.

I give the Camera four out of five stars because I thought HP should of included a Secure Digital memory card with the camera. It does not come with a removable memory card and I thought that was cheap on their behalf.

Overall, I highly recommend this camera if you are looking for a point and shoot device.

Best Quality in its Price Range.
You won't find a better camera for this price. I bought this camera in August while on vacation. I had read raving reviews about the camera prior to getting it, and they were right. What I love most is that the camera fits in my back Jean's pocket. Now that it's winter I have it in my coat pocket every day. The battery lasts forever and has no "memory problems". The camera comes with its own recharger and the battery takes between 6-8 hours to charge, can be done when you go to bed. <br />The camera has many features you only find on more expensive cameras at half the price. The 5 megapixel shots are astounding in crispness and color fidelity. It does not come with an SD card, but it has built in memory which allows you to take various shots depending on the quality setting. All the cameras that come with a card include one with so little memory that they are not even worth using and require the purchase of an additional card, so I don't see the lack of one as a drawback on the R707. I have taken pictures and had them developed at the kiosks in some of the stores for 29 cents a piece and I only have to develop the one's I like. I never have to buy or develop film, I can email the images to family instantly with the camera's features and can even print them on any color printer with the press of a button. If you want stunning photos and the lowest price with the easiest user interface, then this is the one to get; you can't go wrong.

Love it!
I just bought the r707 a few weeks ago, and I LOVE it. I spent a lot of time researching and I would have never thought of getting an HP, but I finally decided to get this camera after testing it in the store. It replaced a 2 megapixel canon elph, which produced average pictures. The interface for this camera is much more user-friendly than my old elph, and the pictures are gorgeous too--the colors are sharp and crisp. It's just so fun to use! You do need to take advantage of the many modes and setting options to get beautiful images in all conditions (low light etc) but it's not hard to do that and worth the effort. It also does really well with action shots.

Lens in the Viewfinder -----
I just bought this camera. Its a nice design overall...but suffers from one major flaw. The lens is visible in the bottom right-hand corner of the viewfinder.

I read many detailed reviews before purchasing and none of them mention this....WHY ? Don't others find this a distraction when composing pictures ? HP has designed all these nifty features not available on other cameras... They got the styling right all in a nice tight package but really dropped the ball on the most basic feature of all....optics.

I called HP to make sure that my unit wasn't defective. The rep powered up a camera and comfirmed that yes you do see 'a bit of the lens' but it doesn't print !....well duh...I know it doesn't print. So basically its good to know mine is not defective...they are ALL defective, IMO. Told the rep mine was going back to the store tomorrow. I use mostly the wider angle setting and I dont want to look at the camera lens in the viewfinder. ... Read more

Product Description

Affordable portable performance.

Fully loaded with a powerful G4 processor, a 5400-rpm 80GB hard drive, 512MB of memory, a faster-burning 8x SuperDrive and a nifty scrolling trackpad, the 15-inch PowerBook G4 boasts features few notebook computers can match.

With a processor speed of 1.67GHz, DDR RAM capacity up to 2GB, a light 5.6-pound weight and thin 1.1-inch design, the 15-inch PowerBook gives you the ideal balance between power and portability. Work and play in millions of colors on a stunning 15.2-inch (diagonal) widescreen display with 1280 x 854 pixel resolution that’s ideal for watching movies in their original wide-screen format. You can also make movies of your own with the included iMovie HD software, or get Final Cut Pro HD for more advanced video editing, compositing and special effects. And thanks to its built-in DVI port, you even have the option of connecting your PowerBook to Apple’s breathtaking Cinema Displays. Add optional dual-link DVI capability and 128MB of graphics memory and your 1.67GHz 15-inch PowerBook even supports the massive 30-inch Cinema HD Display.

As Smart as It Looks
The sleek exterior is as stunning as ever. The 15-inch PowerBook G4 comes with all the refinements and esthetic touches that make it the most coveted full-featured notebook computer on the planet: elegant aluminum construction, 1.1-inch thin design, slot-loading 8x SuperDrive and a brilliant illuminated keyboard. On the inside, a faster PowerPC G4 processor, a standard 5400-rpm 80GB hard drive, powerful graphics, up to 2GB of RAM and Mac OS Xthe world’s most advanced operating systemcombine to deliver off-the-charts performance.

Built for Speed
Inside the 15-inch PowerBook G4 is a screamingly fast 1.67GHz PowerPC G4 processor with Velocity Engine. Advanced processor design and memory architecture are among several core advantages that enable the PowerBook G4 to pack ... Read more

Reviews (11)

A word of caution
Apple needs to improve quality control and product support. The superdrive stopped working when laptop was 6 weeks old.Sent to Apple repair on April 4 and was informed 5 days later after I called that replacement wouldn't be available until end of April. New Superdrive could be quality control problem like permanent white spots on screens and batteries that catch fire of earlier models. Pity, because everything else about the machine is simply superb.

The Holy Grail of Laptop Computing
I have a friend of a friend who works at an Apple store and just recenlty he let me play with all the new stuff, some old stuff too and here is my impression of the new, improved 15 inch PowerBook. First off, and I feel like shouting this, but I won't, "It's about time Apple put out a computer that had enough memory in it to actually run it!" I have an old G3, 14 inch iBook and right off the bat I had to buy more memory, bumping it up to 640 megs, so knowing this baby comes with 512 right out the door, will bring a sigh of relief to anybody thinking of buying one.

The screen on this baby is gorgeous, no reading glasses for me here. This machine is svelte and sleek, comes with Airport Extreme built in. Has all the usual ports, plus FireWire 800 and it's crowning jewel, in my humble opinion, is the backlit keyboard. Apple claims it's ten times brighter than the old model. I can attest to the fact that it's brighter, but ten times, I don't know, I didn't see it. However, it's plenty bright enough to work in the dark. This 1.67 GHz model comes with a Superdrive and a scrolling trackpad (which I didn't mention in my other reviews). I found the trackpad scrolling business to be a little annoying, but no matter you can turn it off in System Prefs if you want. However, I imagine once you get used to it, one might find it darned handy.

Compared to my aging, but still working like a champ iBook, this baby screams. And the 80 gig hard drive gives you plenty of room to load up those MP3s to play in iTunes.

This, in my opinion, is not only the best PowerBook of the bunch, but the best laptop ever made. It is truly the Holy Grail of laptop computing. Apple has really gone and got it right this time.

Jack Priest, Sailor home from the Sea

tens years later... back from retirement
Had to return an hp laptop because it refused to cooperate.ProTools Le was too much for it.
I didn't want a powerbook, I needed one.
The blend of beauty and pleasure shocked me when I booted it up the first time.
Slipped in the gig of pc 2700 ram with no problems.
It hasn't complained once.
The superdrive is super-intuitive and easily backed up a full dvd in as much time as my pc would burn files to cd-r.
All my peripherals are compatible with osx.3.8 (which I had to download from apple...breezy.)
I'm enjoying the interface, a lot less clicks and menus to access files.
Got giggly about the zoom feature for the display.
When's the last time your pc made you smile?

In short, my g4 is the perfect houseguest.

Apple PowerBook Notebook
This is one of the best notebook PC's on the market. This has a 1.67GHz PowerPC G4 Processor which isn't too fast but it's pretty fast for the Apple computers. 512 MB RAM is just perfect but I would recommend 1GB or 2GB. 80 Gigabyte Hard Drive is really nice and it's almost the largest hard drive (100GB is the largest). It has a SuperDrive which can do whatever you want it to do. The styling on this notebook is no wonderful and comes with all the ports and features. 15.2" is pure beauty and the graphics on this thing are great. Here are the specifications of this laptop.

Processor| PowerPC G4
Screen Size (Inches/Diagonal)| 15
Optical Disc Drive| DVD+-RW / CDRW Combo
Hard Drive (GB)| 80
Memory - Processing RAM included| 512MB
Memory - Processing RAM Maximum| 2GB
Memory - Video RAM| 64MB Dedicated
Screen Resolution - Maximum| 1280x854
Wireless Capability| Built-in
Connection - Wireless Network 802.11| 802.11b / 802.11g
Connection - Wireless Bluetooth| Yes
Connection - Sound| In/Out
Connection - RJ11| Yes
Connection - RJ45| Yes
Connection - Video| Out
Operating System| Apple Macintosh OS X
Software| Pre-Installed by Manufacturer
Unit Dimensions - High| 1
Unit Dimensions - Long / Wide| 14
Unit Dimensions - Deep| 10
Unit Weight - Approximate with Battery| 6.0
Manufacturer's Warranty - Hardware| 1 Year
Manufacturer's Warranty - Software| 1 Year

Source: www.jr.com

if you're a heavy pc user, don't switch
I have Powerbook G4, purchased Nov 04, Mac OSX 10.3.8, 1.5 Ghz, upgraded RAM to 768MB.
If you're new to computing, or use Mac for non-business applications (heavy on graphics and creative work) it's probably a good choice.If you use Outlook (not Express) heavily, or use Powerpoint, Excel, and Word a lot and like XP, then the Mac is a snoozer.
reasons not to buy:
1-you pay a lot to get it to do the things a PC with updated Microsoft Office Professional Suite already does, and it never is quite as good...Mac Powerpoint feels pokier (saving, just in keeping up with my typing), Mac Excel toolbar gets on top of/in the way of my worksheets (haven't figured out how to make it go to the back), Outlook just isn't replicated at all on the Mac (unless you get Virtual PC)...Entourage just lacks the functionality
2-doesn't seem to handle the WEP password protocol on my Linksys wireless home network...even the folks at the Apple store said I wouldn't be able to get the DHCP security to work with my PC-based home network
3-Filevault....oooh, what a liability. Much touted file encryption will scramble and destroy files that are open if the Mac also goes into the won't-wake-up-again-sleep mode problem that it has. Though I never diagnosed this completely, I lost a number of key working files that may have been open when the Mac went into sleep mode (read:crashed) while I had Filevault going.I lost saved versions, and they're completely unrecoverable.Later the guys in the Apple store said they never use Filevault...it's "scary", they said.
4-Certain applications, like Visual Basic, aren't available for the Mac yet.
5-switching cost is high...getting contacts and files migrated over to the Powerbook took me a long time, and some of it is never the same. The contacts from outlook to entourage aren't organized the same (due to the fact that entourage contacts aren't as full-featured, lack some key fields), and the pc directories are only useful as read-only...I can't edit files in my pc folders and save them back into those folders (must have been some drive formatting issue that carried over); ripple effect of switching means you have to buy a lot of stuff new (back up drives, antivirus software, disk management software, backup AC cables, if you travel, etc.)
6-if you like XP, the Mac is NOT intuitive.What used to be left is now right, what's top is now bottom.I keep my mouse to the right of the screen (out of the way of typing)...but now important buttons like close/minimize are on the left, increasing mouse travel time.PC's usually have a disk drive light that lets you know the PC is working on something that involves the drive.I liked that...very intuitive way to let me know the PC is busy.No such light on the Mac.
7-you may have problems listening to Sirius radio on Safari; I needed to use Internet Explorer (Hah!much touted Mac browser useless for audio?), and even then can't get fully functional display due to some Mac technicality, according to Sirius techs.

reasons to buy:
1-Largely virus-free because virus writers get more leverage attacking pc's (more market penetration and more business focused); this is a blessing because I found Norton AV '04 to be dysfunctional, glad not to have to deal with it anymore.
2-Supposedly faster processing due to more streamlined operating system, though I don't find the mac to be any more responsive than even a lower priced pc
3-Faster boot-up and shutdown.
4-Fewer crashes-true, though not infallible either; mac's version of the PC blue screen is that some won't wake up after going to sleep
5-cool keyboard, backlit in the dark; very romantic and pretty.

Rating of 3 stars indicates sameness...it's as good as a PC, just different.I wouldn't recommend it for someone who's switching from XP expecting something superior. ... Read more

Features

• 5.0-megapixel sensor creates photo-quality 2560 by 1920 pixel images
• 3x optical, 4x digital zoom
• 1.8-inch LCD screen, 21 different picture shooting modes
• Store images on 10 MB internal memory or SD memory card (not included)
• Powered by rechargeable lithium-ion battery, estimated for 180 shots

Features

• 5,760 x 1,440 dpi maximum resolution, 3-picoliter drop size
• Up to 15 ppm color, 15 ppm black
• Economical printing with 6 individual ink cartridges
• Complete, easy-to-use CD and DVD face printing solution
• USB interface, PC and Mac compatible, 1-year warranty

Reviews (12)

CD/DVD Printing Makes It Worth The Price Alone
When I first read about this printer in a computer magazine, I was immediately impressed by its functions and price point. CD/DVD printers cost $100's more and even then, they usually just serve that single function. Later that day, I went out and bought one.

The R200 not only prints directly onto the discs, but is also a quality photo printer. You can print out crisp images with that function as well as carry out normal day-to-day tasks like homework and other documents. It's great because the printer has an extra USB port on the front of the machine for easy hookup to a laptop. The software for the printer is easy to install and there really was no printer alignment necessary. It did all the work for me.

The only thing you really need to buy, if you don't already have one, is a USB cable because it doesn't come with one packed in the box. Yeah, I know. I was disappointed in that too, but the features made up for that. Speaking of features, in order to successfully print onto a disc, you must use an Ink-Jet printable disc. Otherwise, you'll have a disc with a pool of ink on it.

Not what it claims to be by any stretch
The good news.... OK it prints on white paper, and if you set it to its highest quality (slowest printing) it will turn out pretty decent photos. And on the off chance that you are able to load the CD/DVD tray into it exactly the way it wants, it will print on CD's relatively well.
Now for the real review of this printer: Text is abysmal, even on its best setting. I have a Canon i860, which in every way (text and graphics/photos) blows the doors off this Epson. Printing CD's which really is the ONLY actual reason anyone would buy this over ANY Canon, is a chore at best. You must print them one at time (choosing more than 1 copy craps out the tray alignment for the next copy, which brings on the error message) and it takes a REALLY LONG TIME. Don't get me wrong, the quality in "Best Photo" on CD's is pretty great.... but the hassle with the tray never being happy and the S L O W print speed is just not worth it. WAAAAAAAAYY better results are achieved using the Avery Afterburner kit and printing labels with ANY Canon printer. I had an Epson several years ago, and upon buying Canon, will never go back to Epson. The quality difference is measured in light years. But alas Canon has no CD printer in the U.S., only Europe. So if you're contemplating this as your primary printer, and just every once in a while will print to CD's... move on to another brand that is actually capable of printing clean black text. If you just need a printer to print 2 or 3 CD's a week, this will suffice.

Inexpensive brother of R300
Update of my first review below. I've now owned the printer for nearly three months and its everything I had expected. I don't use it for text so I don't know about its text quality, but its photo prints are awesome using Epson's Colorlife, Premium Glossy, and Heavyweight Matte papers which are good with the types of ink in this printer. Ink usage seems light. Its hard to estimate but I'd guess I've printed the equivalent of 70-80 4x6's and so far each of my ink cartridges seem to be less than half used. I chose the Epson not just for the print quality, which has not disappointed, but also for the cost of consumables. Check paper prices before you buy because you really do want to stick with the correct brand papers unless you really know what your doing. And DON'T use non branded ink if you really want pictures with accurate color.
.....................
I don't own this, but I'm ordering it today. It has exactly the same print engine and software as the R300 that's almost twice the price - I checked the specs at Epson. If you don't need the card readers or pictbridge, buy this instead. On the Canon printers you have to go to the i960 also close to twice the price to find a six color printer. Read Steve's digicams reviews of the R300 if you want to know how well this prints. The best buy out there. The inks alone are worth $70.

Didn't expect much but WOW!
I bought this printer and didn't expect much considering the price, $99.99 for a printer that prints on CD's and DVD's and supposedly a good photo printer too? Well, I figured that I could always return it if it didn't seem worth even the small price.

Boy, was I ever shocked!!! The first task I gave it was to print on a DVD that I burned. I couldn't believe the quality! Wow, was what I said and I didn't even have the printer set on the high quality. To say the least I was impressed. I found that the included software that you use to print on the DVD/CD works fine but is a little confusing but okay once you figure it out. Converting the printer from printing paper to printing on media takes about 10 seconds and is so easy that even the most inexperienced user will master it quickly. All you do is flip down a plastic hinged part and you're in business. You then lay the media on the included tray, slip it in and start printing, and you won't believe the quality.

I bought this printer to print on CD's and DVD's exclusively as I have another printer for daily paper use. But I can see now I'll use it to print CD's and DVD's and for all my photo printing.

After printing on a few media, I decided to try the photo print. I put in an 8 X 10 photo paper and printed a photo out. I tried the borderless option which this printer offers. I was again impressed in the quality printing out on photo paper.

After all of this printing, my cartridges are still plenty full so it doesn't seem too greedy on the ink use. I did increase the print color correction to +1 while printing on a DVD and it's plenty dark enough.

Printing directly on media is really nice and beats the heck out of printing labels and then sticking them on, hopefully straight. Finding printable DVD's was a little tough but I see they're becoming more common now. You can easily get them here on Amazon and a lot of other places on the net. I don't think it will be long until most all media are printable.

Once you print on the media, you'll want to keep this printer and never print a paper lable again.

Not a great value considering black and white problems!
Before you buy this printer, beware: if you run out of color ink, but just want to print black and white, too bad! The "black ink only" function doesn't work if there are any empty ink cartridges (the printer has 6 total). Epson says, "To keep the print head clear, the printer uses a small amount of ink from all the cartridges whenever it prints. Even if you set the printer software to print black only, some color ink is still being used."

So, if you just want to print that text document, best run to the store and spend another $50-$60 for color ink. Que ridiculo!

Reviewers, please BUY the product and USE it more than once or twice before writing a review. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Kodak's top-of-the-line compact digital camera for 2004, the EasyShare DX7630 features a massive 6-megapixel resolution--good enough for print enlargements up to 30 x 40 inches. It also offers the professional quality Schneider-Kreuznach Variogon 3x optical zoom lens, Kodak's new Color Science image processor, an extra-large 2.2-inch indoor/outdoor LCD, movie mode with audio, rechargeable lithium-ion battery, 32 MB internal memory, and compatibility with SD and MCC memory cards.

Optics and Resolution The DX7630 has a 6-megapixel resolution for 2856 x 2142 images and photo enlargements up to 30 x 40 inches. Other resolution modes include 2856 x 1904 (5.4 MP, 3:2 aspect ratio), 2304 x 1728 (4 MP), 2048 x 1536 (3 MP), and 1496 x 1122 (1.7MP). The Schneider-Kreuznach Variogon 3x optical zoom lens is also supplemented by a 4x digital zoom, for a 12x total. Working with renowned German professional optics designer Schneider-Kreuznach, Kodak equipped the camera with an f/2.8 - 8.0 aspheric lens to provide striking edge-to-edge brightness and sharpness across the frame.

Movie Mode
The DX7630 can capture full-motion video (20 frames per second at 320 x 240 pixels) with capacity dependent on available memory (32 MB internal memory included; additional memory may be added via the SD/MMC expansion slot). The DX7630's 32 MB memory will capture approximately 3.5 minutes of video.

More Features
The DX7630 camera's precision low-light auto-focus system combines rapid phase detection with highly accurate through the lens (TTL) contrast detection to sharply define a subject, even in almost complete darkness. Continuous auto-focus also delivers rapid click-to-capture (0.3 seconds). Selectable focus zones and exposure metering allow exacting control over each scene, while standard and fine JPEG compression settings give users more power over their file sizes and quality.

The DX7630 camera offers automatic as well as fully manual controls, permitting independent aperture settings, shutter speed (1/1400 to 64 seconds), exposure compensation and automatic bracketing, and ISO equivalents. The camera also features aperture priority, shutter priority, program and custom modes, as well as 16 scene modes including sport, portrait, night, landscape, macro and automatic.

Other features include:

• 2.2-inch high-resolution indoor/outdoor display that offers a fast magnification feature with zoom control, fast scroll through pictures, or view multi-up
• Real image optical viewfinder
• High performance flash detects backlit situations and triggers auto fill flash
• Continuous shooting and bracketing modes

Storage and Transfer
Images can be stored within the DX7630's 32 MB internal memory, or on optional Secure Digital (SD) or MultiMedia (MMC) memory cards. It connects to Macs and Windows-based PCs via USB 1.1 connectivity.

Sharing
With a touch of the red-jeweled Share button, you can store up to 200 pictures in an on-camera digital album. These pictures can then be shared anytime on the camera's large, 2.2-inch, high-resolution (153,000 pixels) indoor/outdoor LCD screen. The Share button also allows selection of photos for printing and even e-mailing, with up to 32 e-mail addresses stored in the camera's memory.

Kodak Color Science Image Processing Chip
Kodak's Color Science Image Processing Chip offers a new high-speed digital image processor, advanced algorithms, and hardware acceleration features that enable the DX7630 make simultaneous, split-second decisions to produce rich, vibrant, true-to-life colors in almost any lighting situation. Each time you click the shutter, the Kodak Color Science Chip performs an instantaneous and advanced analysis of collected scene data to identify and correct multiple factors that influence picture quality. Scene light source is detected and adjustments are made to capture bright whites and true, vivid colors under difficult lighting conditions--fluorescent, tungsten or daylight. Scene content is analyzed for luminance, focal distance, subject matter orientation and color to determine the correct exposure and capture the natural details, accurate flesh tones, and rich colors you see in your composition.

Power and Size
The DX7630 is powered by a proprietary rechargeable lithium-ion battery (1050 mAh), which can be charged via the included battery charger or an optional EasyShare Camera Dock. The KLIC-5001 battery can shoot approximately 350 images on one charge. The camera measures 4.0 x 2.7 x 1.6 inches and weighs 7.9 ounces without the battery.

What's in the Box
This package contains the Kodak EasyShare DX7630 digital camera, rechargeable lithium-ion battery (KLIC-5001), battery charger, USB and A/V cables, wrist strap, lens cap, and custom camera insert for optional EasyShare Camera and Printer Docks.

Like all EasyShare cameras, the DX7630 includes Kodak EasyShare software for Windows and Macintosh systems, providing effortless digital picture transfer, organization, basic editing, sharing and printing. The software's exclusive One Touch to Better Pictures feature--which takes advantage of proprietary color technologies developed by Kodak--helps Windows OS users get vibrant, true-to-life prints from home inkjet printers, while significantly reducing the trial, error and waste usually associated with home photo printing. ... Read more

Features

• 6.1-megapixel sensor captures enough detail to create photo-quality 14-by-19-inch enlargements
• Schneider-Kreuznach Variogon 3X optical zoom lens
• 2.2-inch display; movie mode with sound
• Store images in 32MB of internal memory or on optional Secure Digital memory cards (memory card not included)
• Powered by rechargeable EasyShare lithium-ion battery (included with charger)

Reviews (7)

part broke in 1 week
Great camera, but part broke that holds battery in within 1 week of use. Have read other reviews on other sites w/similar problem.

Excellent Camera and pictures
Bought this for my wife's scrapbooking hobby and she couldn't be happier. The high detail allows her to crop a portion of the digital image and retain a high quality output. The pictures directly from the camera to the 6000 series printer dock were every bit as good as store processed. <br /><br />In this case "Easy Share" meant something!!!<br /><br />- Vaughn<br /><br />

Best Gift for everyone
This is one of the best buys. and you can capture any moments of your family.

Bad Red Eye Reduction Ability
I was excited about the high 6.1 MP on this small digital camera. My problem is the Red Eye Reduction. It just doesn't work 8 out of 10 times. I talked w/Kodak about this issue, and they basically said its just the way it is. I wouldn't spend my $$ on this camera...there are many others out there that don't have this much lack of Red Eye Reduction.

In the right context...a wonderful camera
I've found the DX7630 to be an easy to use camera very well suited to casual, handheld picture taking. There's not much of a learning curve, the body feels solid in the hands and the image quality is a good match for on-screen use and consumer level printouts. Shutter lag seems minimal, the AF is fast, battery life is long and the large LCD display is easy on the eyes.

On the downside, this camera would not be the best choice for more deliberate, tripod bound photography. Aside from the rudimentary self-timer, the DX7630 lacks any remote shutter release option and does not support any uncompressed file formats. Also, the JPEG compression is somewhat excessive and the camera provides no user controlled noise reduction.

These limitations shouldn't trouble most Kodak shoppers as this camera really shines in other areas. ... Read more

Features

• 108 Mbps with Super G Technology (when used with Netgear WG511T PC Card)
• Smart Wizard gets you up and running in fewer than 5 clicks
• Over 10 security and privacy features including Double Firewall (SPI & NAT)
• 802.11g standard compliance; interoperable with existing 802.11b and 802.11g networks
• Compatible with Windows 98, Me, NT, 2000, XP, Mac OS, NetWare, UNIX, or Linux

Reviews (92)

Good Super G Router
I bought Netgear WGT624 Super G from Amazon for $85-$25 rebate and the corresponding WG511T from Best Buy for $89-$40 rebate.
Actually, I like Linksys because it is reliable. So, I bought Linksys WRT54G first from Fry's, but they sent me an old version of WRT54G which was reviewed having a lot of problems. I returned Linksys and bought Netgear because it says it can go up to 108 Mbit and it is cheaper than Linksys. Hopefully, they really send me the rebate.
Installation to replace my old wired Linksys router was relatively easy (with Comcast and RCA modem). However, for some reasons, I can not make my laptop to work at 108 Mbps. The fastest it can go is 54 Mbps. This is after firmware refresh (both the router and the card) and using channel 6.
I can not say that the signal is great, since from about 10 feets distance in the same house, the speed drops to 24-36Mbps.
I have not try with 11 mbps b card, so I can't say anything about this.
Few things to remember when installing the router:
1. Do not rush opening the box. You need to check if the router you have is firmware upgradable. Netgear was reviewed to have some rotten apple in their batch that do not allow firmware upgrade. Go to their web site: http://kbserver.netgear.com/support_details.asp?dnldID=592
and enter the serial number of the product to see if the one you have is firmware upgradable. If not, you should return it.
2. You want WGT624G version 2 or later. This later version uses a better chip set. However, I think there is no way of finding the version without opening the box. I order from Amazon because according to reviews Amazon ships version 2; although mine has a low serial number.
3. They have a URL that describes the setup for various ISP: http://www.netgear-support.com/ts/doc/ispguide.htm.
It would be a good idea to check it before installing.

I rate this as a good product althought I am not quite satisfied since I can not make it to work up to 108Mbps as advertised.
-- bens

Super-quick installation, great performance, great upgrade!!
I bought this router as an upgrade to a Linksys 802.11b router, which wasn't working well with a newly-purchased Dell laptop [Inspiron 8600 w/ a Dell TrueMobile 1300 WiFi card]...

I will tell you all that from the moment I opened the box, it barely took 8 minutes to remove the Linksys, hook up the NetGear, fire up the PC & cable modem, and run through the setup instructions. The Netgear router auto-configured the cable modem settings during the setup; it was a breeze!!!

Dell laptop owners, take note. This router works great with the TrueMobile 1300 b/g WiFi card!!! The Linksys [short range performance drop-off!!] didn't have a prayer!!! I got great performance throuout my apartment (just haven't been brave enough to try it outside or in the shower...).

Poor Quality Hardware
I own the MR814v2 802.11b router. That is a very stable product, so I figured since I had a WG311 wireless card in my desktop I'd buy another Netgear router for 802.11g. Many of the reviews here were favorable, so I bought on the basis of that.

This product is simply not stable, at least for me. It has to be rebooted constantly. For sure it cannot hold a wireless connection more than 24 hours. I upgraded to the latest firmware, which at the time of writing is 4.1.11. No help whatsoever. I checked on-line, and sure enough many many people have reported similar problems with it (broadbandreports.com). I tried disabling the 108Mb features, but that also didn't help.

So in the end, I'm just returning it after a frustrating weekend.

Great Router
Set up easy. Read all reviews, and bought with some reservations as several negative reviews indicated problems. However, I believe Netgear has them fixed with the version shipping now. Excellent out of box set up, configured both WEP and WAP, settled on using WEP. Use a Netgear 511 wireless card and get 54MBPS thoughout house, about 24-48 outside. Distance of 50+ feet. I have an old house, lathe and plaster walls, hardwood construction and still great reception. Also, have the router in the basement, between an old brick chimney and the furnace. Still, great reception. Recommend!

Bad bad bad - stay away from this one!!!!
I bought this in the hope of setting up a fast network, but this is one worthless piece from Netgear. The router is totally incapable of holding a connection up to both wired and wireless connections on the network. I have v2 HW, and have tried 3 different firmwares. I am convinced that the only people who are happy with this one are the ones that turn their computer off after reuse. If you plan on leaving computers on forget this one.

Netgear's service is even worse. They finally agreed that this is a problem with the router, and that its not a first or uncommon thing for the router. The WGT634U is equally bad. The problems seem to stem from 108Mbps not being a stable standard yet. I would get a 54G router for now, and revisit 108 in a year or so when such issues may just be behind. For now I am returning this and if Netgear does not agree to give me another product in return or my money back, i am never coming back to their products again either. ... Read more