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OWC Tips & Deals 8/29/2006
Intro: Hello again from Woodstock. It's the little twists make the Apple computing world interesting. It's what we are here for and why we, most of the time, truly enjoy being involved with the Apple platform... that and the clear advantages Apple has vs. anything on the Windows side of the fence. At the end of the day, we're here to help you get the most from you Mac a well as explain some of the things that set it apart from the rest. Mac Memory Upgrade refresher/helper As the memory technology employed by Macs has changed, so have the requirements and benefits for how memory is added to these systems. Going back a decade to the days of the 7500-9600 PowerMacs, those machines take 168 Pin DIMM modules singly or in matched pairs. And if you upgraded with a pair, the resulting memory interleaving allowed 64 Bit address (each module was 32 bit) for up to a whopping 5% boost in memory performance. It wasn't a giant boost, but it was still noticeable on those big projects that took hours to complete on even on, for it's day, a cutting edge PM9600 604e/350MHz system. Up next were all of the various G3 and G4 Apple models. This includes PowerMacs, iBooks, PowerBooks, eMacs with a G3 or G4 processor. While the exact memory type transitioned from SDRAM DIMM to DDR (double data rate) SDRAM DIMM since the first G3 model to the last of the G4 models, one thing remained consistent throughout - there is no requirement or benefit to having a matched pairs installed. Some G3/G4 memory models have 1 slot, some G3/G4 models have 2 slots, 3 slots, or 4 slots for memory expansion. But regardless of how you fill those slots, each module is the full 64 bits these systems support for memory addressing. It's one module at a time and not benefit or hit for having modules that aren't the same installed, of course so long as they are the Apple spec for said system. Now enter the PowerMac G5 and iMac G5 models. The G5 processor and memory bus were designed for higher performance ,including 128MBit memory addressing. As a performance system, Apple designed the PowerMac G5 with full time 128 Bit addressing. This requires that memory be added to all PowerMac G5 models in matched pairs of identical modules. The PowerMac G5 will not recognize just one module, nor will it work right with a pair of different size or type modules. Different pairs can be of different sizes, but each pair must be two x the same size/type/production batch to ensure proper recognition and operation of the memory. Add pairs of matched Apple spec modules to fill those PMG5 slots, just don't mix modules within a pair. In the case of the Apple iMac G5, 128MBit addressing is an option. In our own testing, there is a benefit to having a matched pair of memory versus two different size/type modules. However, given the choice between having 1GB via 512MB x 2 Pair Matched modules or adding a 1GB module to an existing 512MB for a total of 1.5GB - having the additional memory offers the most gain compared to a 1GB config and 2.0GB via 1GBx2 for the best performance. This year the first of the Intel Macs arrived in the form of the MacBook Pros, Intel iMacs, then Intel Mac minis, then the MacBook, and last being the Mac Pro. Excluding the Mac Pro Quad Xeon, covered separately in the next section, all of these models use Intel Core Duo processors except for the Core Solo Mac mini option. And, all of these models have two slots with optimal 128MBit addressing enabled when you have two SAME-SIZE Apple-spec modules. People have asked us why OWC doesn't include a 1GB module listing for our Intel Memory upgrade trade-in offer, it's because there is no need. You can add one OWC 512MB or 1GB Apple-spec 667MHZ DDR2 module with an already installed factory module of the same size and have 100% reliable and fully enabled 128MBit memory performance. Apple actually recommends having two equal size modules installed for the significant gain 128MBit addressing does provide for these systems. OWC offers matched sets for 1GB and 2GB total memory as well as individual 512MB and 1GB modules which can be added with an existing single factory module of the same size to get you to the full 128MBit performance and total amount of memory you choose. One thing I can promise you is that what you find recommended at OWC is what's correct for the Mac(s) you have. OWC is more than just a seller of memory. Not only does OWC ensure that Apple specification/requirements are met if not exceeded during the manufacture of OWC Memory, we further maintain our own test lab of every Mac this memory goes into to maintain the best testing and highest standards possible. We know Mac and we know first hand the memory best to make your Mac a better Mac. :) And what about the Mac Pro's memory? Right below... Special Memory Spec for the Mac Pro Quad Xeon OWC, as an expert provider of memory and enhancement products for Apple Computers, stays well on top of the various specifications and requirements for those products we offer. OWC is the first company outside of Apple to offer Mac Pro Quad Xeon Memory Upgrade kits meeting the strict specifications Apple has for this DDR2 667MHZ 240 Pin Fully-Buffered DIMM memory, including the use of a true Apple Qualified Heat-Spreader. The actual Apple-approved/qualified heat-spreader design provides correct metal density, device contact points, and thermal paste characteristics between contact points for an overall superior dissipation of the heat these modules generate. The Apple Mac Pro Quad Xeons are extremely powerful systems and because we maintain the highest standards for our OWC memory upgrade kits, you can count on them for reliable operation that only enhances your Mac Pro (versus any possible hinderance to operation that may occur with upgrade kits that don't meet these standards). For maximum performance via 256MBIt addressing, Apple recommends that at least two memory upgrade pairs be installed. Note - while each individual pair must consist of two matched modules, 256MBit addressing is enabled when two sets of any matched modules are installed. If you start with 2 x 512MB from the factory, adding a 2 x 1GB or 2 x 2GB pair set will give you the same 256MBit addressing performance you also get from having 4 x 512MB. Hope this is helping and not confusing.. :) Several companies have listed FB-DIMMs equipped with only the JEDEC standard heat spreader as being ok for the Mac Pro. The JEDEC standard heat-spreader is fine for servers which have high-speed fans (LOUD!) keeping all the components cool, but not fine at all for the Mac Pro. The Mac Pro is a workstation and few people would tolerate the noise level of a server near their desk. Apple designed the Mac Pro to be very quiet with use of lower speed fans and larger surface areas where heat dissipation is needed to effect more efficient heat exchange. The memory slots in particular were designed with additional space between them to the accommodate the oversized heat-spreader required for Apple's qualified specification. This web page has pictures illustrating the significant difference between the standard JEDEC and Apple Qualified spreader designs. We've taken some flak from customers practically demanding that we sell the cheaper, non-Apple Qualified JEDEC standard upgrade solutions. While it might be tempting to save a couple dollars, the JEDEC standard parts are not what's correct for the Mac Pro. Despite the Apple Spec requirements, some still insisted that using non-qualified parts would be just fine. So we decided to do some testing of our own. So what did we find out with JEDEC standard modules compared to modules designed to meet the full Apple-Qualified specifications? It's all about heat. In testing under EXTENDED Memory Stress Load, we found four Apple 512MB modules peaked at around 129 F, eight pieces of the OWC 1GB Apple-Qualified peaked with a max recorded temp of about 136 F, and eight pieces of OWC 2GB Apple-Qualified maxed at about 141 F. The larger size modules have more devices and thus the higher temps. For example: 512MBs have 9 devices + the ABM, 1GB have 18 devices + ABM, and the 2GB modules have 36 devices + ABM. As a quick refresher, the ABM is the Advanced Buffer Module which is effectively an onboard processor, and is also the component responsible for highest heat generation. So how did the JEDEC standard heat-spreader equipped modules fair in the Mac Pro? Not so good! With just two of the 512MB alone pegged temps nearing 150 F. With four installed, we recorded 151 F. With 6 installed, we had temps up to 156 F as well as memory ECC errors being reported within just minutes off startup. We also tried four JEDEC + two Apple 512MBs. In that configuration, it took over an hour - but under load, ECC memory errors again began to occur. When we installed eight of these modules - we didn't barely have a chance to test anything, as the system quickly locked up with a kernel panic. The problems were far greater testing 1GB JEDEC, and we chose not to waste time on non-qualified 2GB modules. As a final note of comparison, when we installed installed SIXTEEN of the JEDEC Standard parts in a server the JEDEC standard was designed for (which we just happen to have), the FB-DIMMs only reached the comfortable temperature of 126 F. While we'd expect the Apple heat-spreader modules to run even cooler in such a server, that was not something we could test as the slots in that server (and we'd expect most standard servers) were too close together not having been designed to allow for the larger Apple Qualified heat-spreader design. There are some conclusions that we reached from our testing. First off, you might be able to get away with a pair of modules that are only JEDEC standard at first - but as those modules will get substantially hotter than they would in a normal server environment, the likelihood for eventual failure is high. Also, even if all is perfect with just two JEDEC standard modules, when more modules are later added (Apple or JEDEC), going past four total modules installed with the inclusion of two or more JEDEC-only is almost certain to cause memory problems to surface. The bottom line is that we can not support or recommend the use of anything other than Apple-Qualified Modules. Although a little more costly, this is a matter of a penny wise versus dollars short. I know we could be selling tons more memory if we gave in and listed the JEDEC spec FB-DIMMs for these Mac Pros. Some companies have and then later pulled such modules to correct what could be seen as an honest error, while others continue what I feel is a true disservice to the Mac community with the ongoing endorsement of such faulty offerings. Put another way, JEDEC standard FB-DIMM solutions are great for servers but not right for the Mac Pro. Heat Kills and the same modules that run nice and relatively cool in a standard server heat up considerable more to within or even beyond the maximum operational temperature limits parts on those modules are designed for. You'd not run your car with it's the gauges in the area of redline and it's no wiser to do so in the Mac Pro. No matter what - and regardless of which Mac model we're talking about - if we put the OWC name on it we not only guarantee and warranty the product, you can be assured that we have tested that memory. It's not about what some supplier might try to sell us on, OWC first hand directs and tests for our memory qualifications. You have our company's assurance that the memory is what's right and what is best for the Apple Computer(s) you depend on. Also, FYI - Not only does OWC have these Apple Qualified Mac Pro Quad Xeon memory upgrade kits in stock for immediate delivery, we offer it with a LifeTime Advance Replacement Warranty and from $495 for a 2GB Kit are about 37% less than Apple charges to factory install the same. Apple made installing memory into the Mac Pro very easy and if in doubt, our online installation videos shows how just to be certain. Apple's Battery Recall From all appearances, Sony really screwed up on this one. Taking the smart and safe route, Apple has elected to recall and replace about 1.8 million batteries that Sony built. This recall affects PowerBook and iBook G4 models from as far back as 2003. Some flaw in the manufacture of these batteries can apparently result in a catastrophic thermal event which may result in the battery igniting a fire with consequences well beyond just the destruction of the laptop itself. Specially included are batteries included with and sold by Apple for iBook G4 12", PowerBook G4 12", and PowerBook G4 15" Models. To see if your battery is included, visit Apple's Battery Exchange Program Page. In reality, the risk of fire from one of these laptop batteries is very minimal. Given the very minimal risk (I believe there are better odds of getting hit by lightning), it's more of a bonus (free, new battery) - especially for the older models effected where a new battery might already be on a "time to buy" list. Regardless, the odds wouldn't matter if your battery was one to go thermal and this recall is the right thing in terms of safety first. It's not just Apple affected... Nine days ahead of the 'Apple Sony Recall', Dell put out their own recall for batteries; batteries also built by Sony. Dell's recall, the largest laptop battery recall ever, includes approximately 4.1 million batteries that Sony built. Although what was discussed isn't completely clear, Sony apparently met with Dell, on the issue, as far back as October 2005. Seeing how Sony is bearing the financial responsibility for both the Dell and Apple battery recalls, I'd suspect nothing conclusive. And that would make some sense as no doubt Sony might have liked to avoid these recalls from the financial standpoint. Further, since Sony seems to believe the metal particulate contamination in the battery cells is a likely factor, it could be argued that delaying the recall gave Sony time to correct this problem (allegedly done and so-affecting batteries manufactured after Feb/2006) and at least supply replacements in the event of a recall. And hey, at least Apple laptops haven't been banned from any flights yet. With all of that said, there is no question about the challenges present with the mass production of Lithium-based laptop batteries. With ever faster processors, the power requirements have continued to grow along with enduser expectations for battery runtime. A typical laptop battery, which may utilize up to 8 Li-ion cells in a series, packs a lot of stored energy. Proper design and manufacturing methods are important in the management of such energy. I happen to have a lot experience concerning laptop batteries from my involvement with Newer Technology, Inc. for which Other World Computing serves as the primary source distributor. As you may know, NewerTech happens to make a full line of higher capacity (actually the highest capacity) battery options for every PowerBook and iBook model Apple has made since 1998. As NewerTech is a manufacturer of batteries for Apple models affected by this latest as well as prior recalls, OWC has been asked how this affects us and/or if our customers should be concerned. For one thing, none of the NewerTech laptop batteries now or ever have utilized Sony cells. This is not to say that Sony cells are not good - but, they did not meet the requirement for NewerTech product designs. Also, very different than Dell or Apple - NewerTech builds its own batteries (versus providing a design spec out for bid with consideration given to the lowest cost bidder). NewerTech batteries are both designed and built in the United States where the individual cells NewerTech builds with are put through a stringent quality control and matching procedure to ensure optimal performance in the final battery product. And that final battery product is also individually tested prior to release. Although I can not speak for mass production processes in Asia by which Apple, Dell and other brand batteries are produced, I highly doubt that a mass production line can give the attention to detail NewerTech's 100% quality assurance testing provides. But what about safety? Being realistic, there is always the chance for a component to pass testing and still be at risk for failure at some future point. While NewerTech minimalizes risk throughout the extensive testing and selection of top quality components, the risk has to be acknowledged. Looking at consumer electronics in general, X number of television out of Y will fail out there - but, as is the reason for these battery recalls, a fire as a result of failure is not acceptable. And, that is where we believe NewerTech Laptop batteries provide another crucial difference. The Apple batteries that our engineers have examined utilize what is known as a thermal stat. In the event that a temperature exceeding a certain degree is detected within a so-equipped battery, the thermal stat will break the battery circuit. The only problem with this has to do if there is a serious component defect because the thermal stat will reset once temperatures drop again. As damage may be occurring during each thermal event (even if the event is external to the battery itself, and not a problem with the battery), a point may possibly be reached where the thermal stat is no longer able to interrupt the circuit prior to a catastrophic event occurring. By contrast, no chances at all are taken with the NewerTech laptop battery design. Instead of a thermal stat, one time Thermal Fuse technology is employed. In the event an unsafe temperature occurs within the battery, and regardless of cause, this Thermal Fuse permanently breaks the circuit and disables the battery. While it is unbelievably rare for a thermal event to occur for this fuse to be utilized, and rarer still for the cause to be a terminal defect/flaw within the battery - this Thermal Fuse technology to provides the safest battery solution possible. We applaud Apple for taking the steps to recall all of the batteries they have out there which may have issue due to the problem Sony has acknowledged with their cells. At the same time, I am also proud to say that no NewerTech battery or battery component has ever been involved in a recall and thanks to design and quality control measures, we expect that NewerTech never will be involved in any recall related to the safety its battery products. You count on NewerTech for batteries that provide not just the longest run times and longest usable lifetimes, but for safe operation as well. Apple Mac Pro Quad Xeon Performance In testing these newMac Pros, you must definitely take into consideration the native versus non-Intel native applications available. Most of our tests involved components that are not yet native but are still real world relevant given their common use. Since Apple placed the Mac Pro 2.66GHz as their 'primary config', the discussion is focused on results from the 2.66GHz. With that in mind, results from the Mac Pro 2.0GHz will fall under and from the 3.0GHz will score above. Anyway..... A standout performance notation is awarded to the Mac Pros for boot time. While most of us don't spend all that much time rebooting our Macs - having a 10 second from power on to desktop pace is darn snappy and about twice that of the PowerMac G5 2.5GHz 'Quad'. Of note is that the entire Intel Mac line up provides very fast boot times. So far, and without any exception, any tests that I have seen comparing application performance where native support for the Intel processors exist as well as that for PPC, the Mac Pros have smashed the PPC competition. Having said that, we at OWC are putting together a brand new test set so a proper comparison can be offered involving more of these 'universal' applications. Even so, there are a couple more tests that I find of good value in our existing test set. The first test of note involves Adobe PhotoShop 8 from Creative Suite. This is a primary application for many designers and is not expected to have Intel native support until Q2 2007. Given the heavy emulation load via Rosetta this application requires, the Mac Pro provides an impressive performance. But that said, even the PowerMac G5 Dual 2.0GHz cleans the Mac Pro's clock on this one by better than 18%. Another interesting test result is what we saw with Adobe After Effects v6 Pro. Although this application is not Intel Native, only the G5/2.5GHz 'Quad' turned in a better completion time - and only by about 16%. Compared to a G5/2.0GHz Dual though, the Mac Pro was nearly twice as fast. 3D rendering involves a significant amount of numerical calculations - and native or not, these new Mac Pros have significant power to apply to this function. Is it time to get a Mac Pro? That depends on what your needs are. We'll have more testing soon that helps show where these Intel Macs really rock, but in the mean time much can be judged by the applications you use on a day-in and day-out basis. If they include the likes of PhotoShop, which isn't native, you'd probably do just as well to wait unless other application performance stats raise the appeal. You might even consider upgrading that PowerMac G4 you have to buy some time. The Mac Pros will only be getting faster and better priced as time goes by. In the mean time, a PowerMac G4 with an upgrade offers performance impressively near-to that of one of these new Mac Pro powerhouses (and SMOKE the iMac, Mac mini, MacBook Core Duo models) when it comes to the non-Intel native apps still depended on today. Don't forget, none of the Intel based Macs have any ability to run OS 9 applications in Classic model or otherwise. That might be a short term consideration as well. These new Mac Pros do offer amazing performance and their true power will be unleashed with the introduction of Intel native versions of the primary software applications - putting that power to efficient use. A selection from OWC's Benchmark Reporting System which includes results on five tests and includes Mac Pro 2.66GHz, iMac Intel Core Duo, PowerMac G5s, and three G4 Upgrade options gives some nice data to look at. As previously noted - we are designing a new test series for greater comparison between PPC and Intel Mac options. MacinTouch.com has also done some insightful comparison tests that include PowerMac G5, Dell PC, and Mac Pro. For Fun Maybe this whole Sony battery cell issue is a matter of kharma catching up? In case you missed this, last October Sony's Music division was caught installing what is nothing less than spyware on unsuspecting users PCs. By inserting a music CD, this software installed itself without notification + hid its presence. Nice one Sony. Oh, and they did have something similar affecting Mac Users - but unlike the covert Windows install, a Mac User would actually have to give the admin password and approve this malapp install. Amazing how much attention a flower can get, and with a name like 'corpse flower' too. The MacResource forum thread has a good pic with someone right next to it, big flower. Being able to see this plant in full bloom is apparently about a twice in a lifetime experience assuming it's odor doesn't kill you the first time. Intro Closing: The Mac Pro testing, especially due to the specifics of the memory, really took a lot more time became more involved than I'd thought. With conflicting reports from endusers and some resellers, it became very important for us to validate the Apple Mac Pro memory specification/qualifactions. The testing certainly confirmed our original position of offering only the proper Apple Qualified product. And in the midst of this, still working on our normal performance testing when the battery recalls hit. I thought things peaked with WWDC, but it's only gotten crazier since. For our part, you can count on us to give the straight scoop - regardless of whether we like that scoop or not. I can hardly believe that the Summer is winding down and this coming Monday is already labor day. On that note, I thank you for being a Tips n' Deals subscriber and wish you and yours only the best along with a well deserved, enjoyable Labor Day Weekend. I also hope you'll checkout and enjoy our latest Quick Tip, the latestReader Specials, and Roger's Music on the Mac which follow these 'special messages from our 'sponsor': Quick Links A better Apple/Macintosh ISP at a better price - FasterMac.Net From $5 a month, get nationwide dial up with Toll-Free Tech Support, anti-virus blocking, powerfully effective and fully customizable anti-spam tools, web space, 5 e-mail accounts, and more. You get more and pay less with FasterMac.Net. DSL available in Northwestern Illinois/Chicagoland via OWC.NET too. Just what does OWC do with trade-ins, open box items, discontinued goods, etc.? We put 'em up on our Clearance Deals Page. **Just added a ton of new goodies July 28th + various tidbits since** Upgrade the Mac you have or get a new one? OWC's exclusive Benchmark Reporting System helps you answer your own question. Compare various stock Macs vs. New Macs vs. Upgrades - you pick the Macs to compare and from up to 15 different tests we've completed. Use Apple OS 9.2.2 & Apple OS X on Macs Apple doesn't support because OWC does with OS 9 Helper and Xpostfacto! Quick Tip: Put your iPhotos up in a Galerie That's no typo! Galerie is a freeware program that jazzes things up when it comes to sharing photos on the web. Some of the fun is taking the photos, but I think most of the fun is in sharing. And using this nifty piece of freeware, you can add a professional touch to your web displays without any extra effort. M. Chris Stevens has put together a nice intro on Galerie and included a nice comparison between the iPhoto and the Galerie web gallery creation using photos from our 4th of July Fireworks in Woodstock. When it's all about the presentation, Galerie provides a nice touch. See past Quick Tip topics online in the Quick Tip Archive Great Buys and Featured Exclusive Specials for OWC E-Mail Subscribers: Find all the deals reserved just for Readers on your Tips n' Deals Exclusive Specials Page. What follows next is just a sampling of this week's highlights. First Look at Clearance Deals Just Posted By tomorrow morning, the word will be out - but as an OWC Tips n' Deals subscriber, you've got the first shot at these first come, first served clearance deals which include: Lots of ATA and SATA Desktop 3.5" HDs from $47.50; 250GB from $70.00 ATA and SATA Notebook 2.5" Hard Drives from $45.00 SATA and ATA/133 Controller add-on cards from $37.50 Newertech 3.5/2.5/5.25 ATA & SATA to USB2 Universal Adapters $22.50 FireWire and FireWire/USB2 Enclosures from $22.00 Genuine Apple 256MB and 512MB memory modules from $5.50 Genuine Apple Desktop and PowerBook SuperDrive DVDRW/CDRWs from $40.00 ATI Radeon Video Cards from $89.00 And a whole lot more! MacBook & MacBook Pro 2GB Mem Sets $212.50 & More 8/29/2006 Memory Report: Not a huge surprise, but as we are now approaching the fall season with back to school, demand for memory upgrade products is not just on the rise but with impact of such felt too. We've seen some real pressure causing prices to edge up and even shortages on some of the factory original modules we offer. Whether the market goes up or down, we've got you covered for the best quality modules give your Mac the Memory to perform faster and always backed with our LifeTime Advance Replacement Warranty. New Mac Pro Quad Xeon Upgrade Sets Add up to 16GB to Apple's new Mac Pro with Matched Sets of DDR2 667MHz Fully-Buffered DIMMs. All OWC Memory for the Mac Pro is 100% Apple Certified Spec including the use of an Apple Qualified/Approved Heat-Spreader. This is the Correct memory for your new Mac Pro! OWC 2GB Mac Pro FB-DIMM Upgrade Set (1GB x 2 Pair) $ 495.00 OWC 4GB Mac Pro FB-DIMM Upgrade Set (2GB x 2 Pair) $1129.00 **4GB, 6GB, 8GB, 12GB, 16GB complete sets offer lower pricing per module** Memory for all Intel based Apple MacBook, MacBook Pro, iMacs, & Mac minis These systems all feature two PC5300 DDR2 667MHz memory expansion slots. Modules do not need to be matched pairs, but installing the same size module in each slot (1GB + 1GB for example) provides maximum memory performance according to Apple. See all memory and hard drive options for MacBook/MacBook Pro 2GB Upgrade Set for MacBook/MacBook Pro (1GBx2) $231.00 Standard DDR for all other PowerMac G5 and iMac G5 models: 1GB Matched Pair (2x512MB) PC3200 DDR 184 Pin - $114.00 2GB Matched Pair (2x1GB) PC3200 DDR 184 Pin - 225.00 1GB PC3200 DDR Module for iMac G5 Only (PowerMac G5 requires Pairs!) $112.50 For new 'Oct/20005' PowerMac G5 Dual & Quad 'Dual-Core' Models: Eight Slots, Matched Pairs Required, DDR2 533MHZ PC4200 up to 16GB Max 1GB DDR2 Pair (512MBx2) - $ 117.50 2GB DDR2 Pair (1GB x 2) - $207.50 4GB DDR2 Pair (2GB x 2) - $429.00 Memory for iMac G5 1.9GHz, 2.1GHz with built in iSight Camera: 512MB Built in + One Slot PC4200 DDR 533MHz 240 Pin allows up to 2.5GB: 1GB DDR2 Upgrade Module - $105.00 2GB DDR2 Upgrade Module - $215.00 For Mac Mini, eMac G4/1.25-1.4GHz, and eMac 1.0GHz 'Education Model': 512MB PC3200/2700/2100 184 Pin DDR DIM Module now $57.00 1GB(1 x 1024MB) PC2700 DDR 184 Pin Module - $115.00 For all PowerBook 12" Models; all 'Pre Oct 19th, 2005' PowerBook G4 15" & 17" Models; All iBook G4 Models; And all iMac G4 models: 512MB PC2700/2100 DDR SO-DIMM 200 Pin Module - $55.00 1GB OWC PC2700/2100 DDR SO-DIMM $125.00 For PowerMac G4 Sawtooth/AGP Graphics, Gigabit Ethernet, Digital Audio, QuickSilver; eMac G4; iMac G3 350-700MHz Models: 256MB PC133 CL3/PC100 CL2 168 Pin SDRam DIMM Module - $24.99 512MB PC133 CL3/PC100 CL2 168 Pin SDRam DIMM Module - $67.50 Visit our Mac Memory Section to browse the full selection of memory we offer and/or use our online memory guide to get the right memory for your Mac(s). PowerBook / iBook / MacBook Notebook HDs - 120GB 5400RPM $115.00; 100GB $92.50 SATA Internals For MacBook Pro & MacBook models: 120GB WD Scorpio 5400RPM w/8MB Buffer & 3yr Warranty - $127.50 160GB Hitachi 5K160 with 8MB Buffer and 3yr Warranty - $239.00 ATA Internals For PowerBooks & iBooks: 80GB Seagate Momentus 5400.2 8MB Buffer, Special w/1 Year OWC Warranty $75.00 100GB Apple Hitachi 5K100 5400RPM 8MB Special w/1yr OWC Warranty $92.50 120GB WD Scorpio 5400RPM Notebook HD w/8MB Buffer & 3yr Warranty $115.00 High-Performance 7200RPM 2.5" Drives 60GB to 100GB now from $109.99 Hard to find Apple Airport now in stock for $115.00 Apple Airport Cards for PowerBook G4 Titanium, iBook G3s, PowerMac G4 Desktops, etc. with original Airport support. Until a couple weeks ago, it had been about seven months since we last had these. If you've been waiting or need one, here ya have it for - ** Now $115.00 ** Also available - Buffalo 802.11B/G Wireless PCMCIA Cardbus 'Airport Compatible' - $35.00 for any PowerBook G3 'Pismo'; any PowerBook G4 model. Uses the external PCMCIA Slot and available for a fraction of an Apple Airport's cost + give you faster 802.11G performance too! Other Wireless options for PowerBooks, PowerMacs & wireless routers, extenders, etc - also available from OWC. Fast 16X DVD/40X SuperDrive Burners w/Dual-Layer from $42.99 Upgrade your PowerMac G3-G4-G5; eMac G4; iMac G4 to the latest Pioneer SuperDrive with up to 16X DVD Burn Speeds, 8X Dual Layer burn for 8.5GB per DL Disc; and up to 40X CDR/CDRW Burn Speeds. Pioneer 'SuperDrive' from $42.99 or from $49.50 in one of six Value Bundles including Media & additional Software. Use Apple's iDVD, iPhoto, iTunes, DVD Studio Pro; Roxio Toast, Etc. For PowerBook G4 15" Ti, 12/15/17" Aluminum Models: MercuryPB 8X DVD w/Dual Layer SuperDrive Kit now from $119.99 Includes Dantz Retrospect, NTI Dragonburn, 10 Pieces DVD Media For all iMac G5 17" and 20" Models: MercuryG5i 8X DVD w/Dual Layer SuperDrive Kit now from $119.99 Includes Dantz Retrospect, NTI Dragonburn, 10 Pieces DVD Media Or - Go External and burn CDs and DVDs with virtually any Mac (or PC) from $89.99! USB2, Firewire/USB2 Models include all Cables & Media + compatible with iTunes, iPhoto, and iDVD5, Roxio Toast, etc! Processor Upgrades Mercury G4 Extreme for all PowerMac G4 AGP Graphics/Sawtooth, Gigabit Ethernet, Digital Audio, and Quicksilver models. 30 Day Money Back + 3 Year OWC Warranty OWC Mercury Extreme G4 @ 1.5GHz with 2MB L3 Cache, $245.00 500GB Internal HD Upgrades from $209.00; 250GB now $82.50 250GB Hitachi DeskStar T7K250 8MB Cache & 3 year Warranty IDE/ATA Version - $82.50 SATA I/II Version - $89.00 320GB Seagate Barracuda 7200.10 w/16MB Cache & 5 year Warranty IDE/ATA Version - $109.00 SATA I/II Version - $117.00 500GB Seagate Barracuda 7200RPM with 16MB Cache & 5 year Warranty IDE/ATA Version - $209.00 SATA I/II Version - $220.00 IDE/ATA Drives are for PowerMac G3 & G4; iMac G4; eMac G4 Models. Some of those models may require either an ATA PCI Card or InTech HD Speedtools with Hi-Cap driver for utilization of over 128GB. Also, SATA PCI Cards are available to allow the use of SATA HDs in any PowerMac model. -- Get HD Speedtools w/Hi-Cap for $15 SATA PCI HD Controllers from $39.99 ATA PCI HD Controllers from $69.99 All PowerMac G5s, iMac G5s, and the new iMac Intel models can use any of the above SATA drives. Apple iMacs all support one internal drive. PowerMac G5 models support up to two SATA drives using the Factory Bays, and you can add up to 3 additional drives inside the PowerMac G5 using Sonnet's G5 Jive + an additional SATA Controller card to support the additional drives. -- G5 Jive 3 HD Bracket/Cable Set $89 SATA PCI Cards for G5s from $39.99 Get Apple OS X 10.4 Tiger $89.99; Special Bundle with iLife 2005 $129.00 OWC has been able to make a special purchase of Apple OS X 10.4 full Retail Box version to offer them for just $89.99. All the updates through 10.4.7 are just a free download update way. Get Tiger 10.4 Retail Box Version - $89.99 Apple OS X 10.4/10.3/iLife 2005 Bundle Set - $129.00 Also available: Apple OS X 10.4.6 Retail Box Version $119; 5-User Family Pack $165 and more options including: Apple OS X 10.3.9 Panther Server for $149.00 Panther 10.3.x Single User on DVD for $47.99 Apple OS X 10.2.x for $17.99. External Firewire, FireWire+USB Solutions from $259 Sizzling Summer Deals on 500GB Single Drive Solutions: 500GB OWC Neptune FireWire 400 Solution 1yr Warranty now - $259.00 500GB OWC Mercury Elite FW800/400+USB2 2yr Warranty now - $319.99 500GB NewerTech miniStack V2 FireWire+USB2 2yr warranty now - $299.00 Solutions above are complete with Retrospect, Speedtools, Cables, & More! 1.0TB (1000GB) OWC Mercury Elite-AL Pro 800 Performance RAID - $550.00 OWC Mercury Elite Oxford911+ 3.5" FireWire 400 Enclosure Kit - $49.00 OWC 640GB Mercury Elite-AL Pro 800 Dual Drive FW800 RAID - $350.00 See the additional options & capacities online. Goodies from Griffin like iTrips from $9.99 Our good friends at Griffin have made it possible for OWC to offer some great deals on several popular Griffin products including: Griffin iTrip FM Transmitter for 3G & 4G iPods - $9.99 Griffin iTrip FM Transmitter for iPod mini - $12.99 Griffin iTalk Voice & Audio Recorder for 3G, 4G, Photo iPods - $22.99 Check these and all our Griffin deals right online. MultiMedia via your Mac & Standalone too- Music-Movies-etc AL Tech MediaGate MG-35 is a stand alone Multimedia Player that lets you stream video, music, movies, photos and more - from your Mac and to your TV via home network. Utilizing a hard drive installed in the unit, you can directly store such multimedia content on the MG-35 for completely standalone use. The missing home entertainment multimedia link - from $129.00! Video Card Deals Get equipped with the latest ATI Video Cards for additional displays as well as Quartz Extreme and Tiger Core Acceleration from $89.00 here - really! PowerBook & iBook Batteries that run longer, last longer! NewerTech iBook and PowerBook batteries are the longest lasting, longest running standard type batteries you can buy! Built in the USA using only the very best cells from Japan and Canada, these batteries are built to last. NewerTech NuPower batteries, with up to 62% more capacity vs. Apple's original stock, are available for iBook G3 & G4, PowerBook G3s WallStreet/Lombard/FireWire models, and all PowerBook G4 Models. Deals on iPod Goodies 1800mAh NuPower Battery for 1st/2nd Gen iPods normal $14.99, now $9.99 46% more run time capacity vs. Apple stock battery. Jam again, Jam longer! See NewerTech Batteries for iPod 1G, 2G, 3G, 4G, Photo & Mini + Online Videos. NewerTech Universal FireWire/USB Dock Adapter - $9.99 For all iPods with Dock Connector - Connect iPod to system with USB/USB2 or FireWire Cable. NewerTech DockSpot iPod White LED Light - $2.99 Nifty compact light that powers off any iPod with Dock Connector NewerTech Clean & Polish Kit for Apple iPods, iBooks, etc - $15.00 Not just some crummy cleaner or diluted polish in a bottle - this is a professional grade kit with two polish types and special cleaner that really restores. Add BlueTooth for $19.99; Wireless mice from $12.99 Add BlueTooth to any Mac with USB 2.0 Built in or that has a USB 2.0 Add on Card! Synch/Connect with BlueTooth Phones, BT Headsets, and other great Bluetooth enabled accessories for $19.99 Logitech RF Wireless 2 Button USB Mouse w/Scroll Wheel, only $12.99! I have been using the mouse happily since August. And have heard great feedback on the Mouse and Keyboard wireless combo to. Logitech Wireless Freedom for an unbeatable price. You'll find more great deals, updated regularly on your Tips 'n Deals Reader Specials Page, check it out! Music on the Mac 8/29 - Do Mic Right; Cool New Speakers Greetings from www.macsales.com/music VOCAL RECORDING - DO IT RIGHT Many of you need to record a vocal or voice over in your home studio. It may be the all important lead vocal on a song or the voice over for your Podcast. Here are a few tips to make that vocal strong, consistent and easy to mix. Most vocals sound good recorded with a large diaphragm condenser mic. A good and inexpensive choice would be the popular M-Audio Nova mic. This type of mic has a smooth even frequency response (it picks up the whole spectrum of frequencies) and sounds very natural for voice. This is a "studio only " type of mic and you should not be holding it or touching it when recording...use a mic stand! Stay about a foot away from the mic and be careful of "plosives", the pop sound that sometimes is picked up on certain words such as "please" or "power". If that becomes a problem you can try a few things. Raise the mic up an inch or two and ask the vocalist to "NOT" raise up their chin to sing in an upward direction. You can also use a windscreen which is a circular screen placed between vocalist and mic. These attach to the mic stand and have a flexible arm used to position the screen in front of the mic. You can also suggest that the vocalist not "hit" their P sound so hard or even to soften or "swallow" it so its almost a B sound. They can also turn their head slightly to the side when saying/singing "P " sounds. Experiment for a solution that solves the problem and still sounds right. Another element in the picture is the use of effects such as compression and reverb. It is very common for a vocal to have some"compression" applied. This hardware or Plug-in effect is subtle. It "compresses " the vocal so it never drops below or goes above a certain volume range. This makes it much easier to mix the voice with other sounds or instruments. It never "gets lost" in the mix and stays at a consistent volume. This is very commonly used in pop music production and for announcers/voice overs for TV and radio. Adding some reverb to the sound makes the vocal sound warm and also sound good to the vocalist. Just don't get carried away. It should not sound like they are in a grand concert hall or canyon-unless that is what you specifically need to do. If they like the way they sound in the headphones, they will give a better performance! These tips should help you get a great recording...give these ideas a try ! Banshee Surround Speakers....new product! We have recently begun selling the Banshee speakers for iPod and other MP3 players. This system claims to provide a simulated surround sound output. How does it sound? Here's the lowdown on this unique product. The "surround" claim is a bit more difficult to describe. They have come up with a system that "seems" to give you a surround experience, especially when listening to the system at close range. The scheme seems to be to divide the signal into different frequency ranges and send each to different speakers...not really sure since it is their unique, proprietary design. Nonetheless, it does something noticeable and entertaining. As expected, the "simulated surround" effect is dramatically reduced when you are further away. This system can indeed fill a small room (dorm room perhaps) with some pretty big sound regardless. There are a lot of iPod speakers on the market, to be sure. I have heard most and own more than one system myself. I feel confident in recommending the Banshee speakers, which sell for about $130. They have a surprisingly full sound and the Surround feature is clever and certainly unique. The system also has a fun, young, highly stylized look to it and doesn't take up a lot of desktop real estate. In their price range, they are an excellent choice. Get our entertaining new Widget called Daily Guitar Jam. Visit studioA recording studio and Other World Computing's new audio showroom by appointment - email: rogerad@macsales.com For all your audio/music needs, macsales.com/music online. Subscribe to the "Rock Your Computer" PodCast. Browse and read other 'Music on the Mac' articles by Roger posted online. See how Roger created The Garage Album CD at The Garage Album website. Interact with Roger and other Apple Music/Audio users in our online music and audio forums. About our Music Guru: Roger Adler is a four-time Emmy nominated composer, producer, and performer. He is an endorser and clinician for the iGuitar by Brian Moore Guitars and his work is recognizable in over 1000 television commercials. Adler performed at the Presidential Inaugural Ball in Washington D.C. as recently as 2005 and his recordings include appearances on the Groundhog Day feature film soundtrack and The Garage Album. He is widely recognized for his role as Music director for the A&E television series "The Best of Comic Relief" starring Robin Williams, Billy Crystal, and Whoopi Goldberg and for 16 years as Music Director for the popular series "Wild Chicago." Adler is the owner of two recording studios serving the professional entertainment industry, i^3 audio at North Pier in Chicago and studioA at Lakeside Legacy Arts Park in Crystal Lake, IL. In addition to facilitating the Daily Guitar Jam Widget, Adler produces the popular Podcast Show "Rock Your Computer" which broadcasts to an international audience via Apple's iTunes Music Store. Closing: With the intro so loaded up, really didn't leave a lot to say at the close. I feel a little like a broken record on the topic of the Mac Pro memory, but you have no idea how many people have been upset at us for not selling the cheap stuff. I wish we could sell it. But having done multiple tests with various JEDEC only spec parts, we know that these parts aren't right for the Mac Pro. It's a bummer too - we could sell the JEDEC only parts for less than our COST even on the right parts. Then again - I know that doesn't matter since they aren't right. OWC has built itself on integrity. We offer quality products at competitive prices with service that starts before and continues well beyond completion of the sale. I've been doing this for 18 years now and have no plans of changing careers anytime soon. It be really easy to tell some people what they want to hear and sell them the part they want to believe is fine. But our service isn't about wishful thinking, it's about providing the correct information - even if we at OWC don't like it too. We are here for the long haul and the product we offer and support are sold for the long haul too. And that you can always count on from all of us at OWC. With that off my chest, it's time to push this edition on its way. The best always to you and yours and thank you for being an OWC Tips n' Deals subscriber! And although initially surprised by how it snuck up on me, I have not forgotten what this weekend is. Summer might be winding dowm, but this Labor Day Weekend I do wish for you, your family, and friends to wholly enjoy and make the best of. What's all the work and sacrifice for if not a day, or three day weekend for fun in the sun. :) We Support our Troops The 'fine print': Contact Information+ ++++++++++++++++++++ Sales: sales@macsales.com or 800-275-4576, International 815-338-8685 Customer Service: custserv@macsales.com or 800-275-4576 / 815-338-8685 Tech Support: Online Tech Center or 815-338-8685 Please feel free to e-mail any comments or suggestions to:suggestions@macsales.com < br> You may ALWAYS reply to our OWC Tips and Deals e-mail at owc@macsales.com with any questions or comments as well - PLEASE change the subject to reflect your e-mail question/comment to ensure a speedy reply! Other World Computing div. of New Concepts Development Corp. 1004 Courtaulds Drive Woodstock, IL 60098 815-338-8685 This is an free subscribed E-Mail Newsletter that can be joined via or website. This e-mail is only received if you have joined our list. Notification is e-mailed to your address when you join as well as if you choose to cancel, which you may do at anytime, no hard feelings. :) To change, remove, or add an e-mail address for our newsletter, you can visit our online subscriber page anytime. If you'd just like to unsubscribe, that can also quickly be done with the link at the end of this e-mail. Prices & availability subject to change without notice. New specials go up and old specials updated everyday. We Apologize for typographical errors. This e-mail may be freely distributed in its original form, complete and without any modification, alteration, insertion, or anything else that would make this different from the original intent. If you would like to 'reprint' just a portion you may make a request by e-mail to: larry@macsales.com. All Rights Reserved, Copyright 2000-2005, Other World Computing - Since 1988 |