Ten Cool Christmas Gift Ideas For PowerBook and iBook Users Under $30.00
by Charles W. Moore
It's that time of year again, and for this Logical Mac column I have 10 gift suggestions under $30.00 for the Apple laptop user or users on your Christmas list. Actually there are more than ten items mini-reviewed below, but some are clustered into categories.
So, here goes, in no particular order.
1. foofbag Handmade Laptop Bags
What is a foofbag? It's a quilted laptop sleeve, genuinely hand crafted, and the nature of handmade means that no two foofbags are identical, they are all slightly different.
I had to smile when I unwrapped the review foofbag. Six years ago, when I was selling Macs, one customer who bought a WallStreet PowerBook (which is still going strong, by the way) to run her construction business with made a quilted sleeve case almost exactly the same as the foofbag in concept to carry the big WallStreet around in. It's one of the reasons why her old PowerBook still looks like new.
foofbags are handmade in Australia using a 1953 Pinnock sewing machine. There is only one machine so delays are to be expected when foof gets swamped with orders.
Our test foofbag sports a colorful and cheerful "Convergence" rainbow fleece motif (now discontinued) outer covering with a black, quilted taffeta lining that babies the laptop's finish, allows it to slide in and out effortlessly, and protects it from bumps and scrapes.
The Foofbag is of course no substitute for a hard or heavily padded laptop case or backpack, but it's an awful lot lighter and easier to carry around.
Note that unlike the test model, the new foofbags are now slot-loading (ie: flapless), which makes for easy removal, especially at airport x-ray security checks, where you really need to pull your 'Book out quickly.
foofbags' Dirtymouse and foof say: "Being heavy laptop users ourselves, we know that most people have their backpack or computer carry bag sorted out for their storage needs. Some people dislike zippers and velcro, as they wear out, break or lose grip. We have also found out that people with certain disabilities have much difficulty with fasteners and zippers, so we've elected to avoid complexity by offering simplicity and beauty."
Fair enough.
There is a little extra length at the opening that adds a little closure (the photograph shows the 'Book port side out for more dramatic appearance, but in reality, it's better to insert the laptop port side down for extra protection.
If your foofbag gets really grubby, you can wash foofbags made of synthetic fabrics separately in cold or slightly warm machine wash, but do NOT use bleach. Slightly Warm tumble dry is OK. Do not iron, Irish tweed foofbags (projected to be available again in the New Year) can be ironed (warm NOT hot), but have not been tested for washability.
foofbags come in these sizes:
* 12" G3 & G4 iBook
(white only)
* 14" G3 & G4 iBook
(white only)
* 12" G4 Powerbook (Aluminum only)
* 15" G4 Powerbook (Aluminum only)
* 17" G4 Powerbook (Aluminum only)
foofbags are not available for the earlier model 15" G4 Powerbook (Titanium) due to the screen hinge taking up an extra 10mm of space.
Price range: $26.00 - $39.00, so the least expensive (corduroy) versions just sneak in under my arbitrary $30.00 limit for gift suggestions in this column.
For more information, visit:
2. Laptop Desk UltraLite
The Laptop Desk is a disarmingly simple device consisting of two panels of molded polycarbonate plastic hinged together, which unfolds either to a wedge shape that elevates the laptop screen to a more comfortable viewing angle for desktop use, or folds out flat to create a support platform for the computer with a mousing surface on the side.
A combination of scalloped channels molded into the area where the computer rests combined with raised soft robbery pads that hold the laptop firmly in place as well as slightly raising it clear of the panel also result in from 8 to 20 percent better cooling characteristics (according to a study by California Polytechnic University cited by LapWorks) depending on the orientation mode. And of course, the Lapdesk itself helps insulate your lap from computer - generated heat.
The Laptop Desk UltraLite is a lighter, thinner, but slightly longer counterpart to the Laptop Desk v2.0 (which remains in production), aimed at users of lighter, thinner portable computers in the five pounds or less range, such as Apple's 12" iBook and the smaller G4 PowerBook models.
In fully-open lap tray mode, the Laptop Desk UltraLite creates a generous 22" expanse of workspace (1.5 inches wider than with the v2.0 model). In "wedge" desktop stand mode, the UltraLite offers 5 adjustable angles with a maximum screen elevation of 3 1/4", and increases cooling efficiency by 15 percent to 20 percent. When used as a desktop stand the Laptop Desk allows unimpeded access to front-loading optical drives, which some laptop stands don't.
One reader complained that she found the ribbed texture of the Laptop Desk UltraLite uncomfortable when she used it wearing shorts or a skirt, which might be something to consider if you use a laptop with bare legs. Personally, wearing 13 oz. denims, I find the Laptop Desk UltraLite quite comfortable, even with an eight-pound WallStreet PowerBook aboard.
When folded, the Laptop Desk UltraLite measures 11" x 11" x 5/16" and will slip easily into most computer bags or backpacks, and stores conveniently just about anywhere.
Our test Laptop Desk UltraLite feels very sturdy, notwithstanding its light weight and thin profile, and the hinges appear to be robust enough to withstand extended use and many folding cycles.
The Laptop Desk is a really cleverly designed and useful product for laptop users. Both models sell for a modest $29.95, but for a limited time there is a ten dollar instant rebate on the UltraLite model, which makes it just $19.95. Hard to resist at that price, and it may well be all you ever need in a laptop stand.
For more information, visit:
3. Notebook ScreensavRz
RadTech Notebook ScreensavRz are a multipurpose product. Their primary function being to protect the laptop screen from dirt, finger grease, and abrasion that could result from the display surface contacting the keyboard when the book is closed. However, ScreensavRz can also be used to clean and polish your 'Book's screen without sprays or wet wipes. The directions are to just dampen the ScreensavRz with water, and polish away most dirt or existing light scuffing.
However, I found that the ScreensavRz, which feels sort of like soft, thin, chamois leather, did a fine, lint-free job of cleaning the two dirtiest, dustiest PowerBook screens in our house when used dry.
Made from RadTech's proprietary, super-soft Optex fabric, a non-woven, ultra-thin (0.6mm thick) polishing fabric. ScreensavRz allows you to safely clean the screen or any surface of your 'Book. It is machine washable too, and so thin, soft and supple it can be folded up to stow as easy as a dollar bill.
The ScreensaveRz I checked out is a 12-inch iBook model, which my wife has now commandeered as a dust protector for her PowerBook 1400 keyboard.
Features in summary:
- Shields notebooks from oils, dirt and abrasions.
- Expressly designed to clean LCD Displays - Cleans CDs/DVDs, too.
- Can removes prior light LCD screen abrasion (keycap marks).
- Ultra-tough and light cloth lasts for years. Won't wrinkle, fray, frock, run or tear.
- Polish your entire notebook - especially good for iBooks.
- Sizes for all brands of notebooks.
- No oily residue or shedding like leather.
- Combine with Wildeepz Display Cushions (see below) for maximum protection on all PowerBook G4s and Dual-USB iBooks.
- Available in a variety of colors and logos, as well as custom logos
Notebook ScreensavRz Specs:
Material: Optex - (>1 million fibers/sq. inch)
Sizes:
26cm x 20cm (12-13.8")
32cm x 21cm (14-15.5" wide screen)
29cm x 23cm (14-17" std. screen)
36cm x 23cm (17" wide screen)
Cross-sectional thickness: 0.6mm
Weight: 7g, 10g, 11g, 12g (specific to above sizes)
Colors: Titanium, Aqua, Black & Shagwire Pattern
Price range: $13.95 - 17.95
For more information, visit:
http://www.radtech.us/Products/
4. RadTech PowerSleevz
RadTech PowerSleevz are a different take on the laptop sleeve concept. Unlike the foofbag, PowerSleevz are not quilted or padded at all, and consist of a simple sleeve made of a heavier-gauge version of RadTech's Optex fabric that is shared with the ScreensavRs product (see above).
PowerSleevz are intended more as a form-fitting dust cover than a protective housing, although they will certainly protect your 'Book from scratches and abrasion as well. Weighing just 40 grams, the PowerSleevz stretches on like a glove, hugging every curve of your 'Book's contours, and can fold up small enough to easily fit in your pocket. It can also be used inside a larger case to protect from zippers and hardware. And since they are made from Optex, the PowerSleevz case can also be used to clean and polish your 'Book's screen and housing.
PowerSleevz are elegantly debossed with "PowerBook" or "iBook" text on the top panel or with a custom logo.
The sample that Radtech provided for this review was the 12-inch PowerBook version, so I wasn't able to try it in action, not having a 12-inch PowerBook (my 12.1 inch iBook is substantially larger than the PowerBook 12"). However, the PowerSleevz is sumptuously soft and should be very kind to your laptop's finish.
PowerSleevz Features in summary:
- Superlight, form-fitting protective sleeve.
- Made from RadTech's exclusive Optex fabric. Clean and polish anything with it, including the screen!
- Breathable, yet repels liquids.
- Offers significant protection - PowerSleev'd notebooks have survived incredible perils.
- Fits your 'Book like a glove.
- Enhances your grip when carrying.
- Debossed "PowerBook" or "iBook" logo on one side. Even get your own custom logo.
PowerSleevz Specs:
Material: Optex - (>1 million fibers/sq. inch)
Sizes:
34x24x2.5cm (PB G4),
29x23x3.5cm (12" iBook),
32x26x3.5cm (14" iBook)
Cross-sectional thickness: 0.8mm
Weight: 40g, 34g, 41g (specific to above sizes)
Price range: $22.95 - $27.95
For more information, visit:
http://www.radtech.us/Products/
5. Targus Notebook Chill Mat
Today's crop of Mac portables, from the 1.2 GHz iBook on up, tend to be hot in more than looks. The speedy processors and fast video accelerator cards that give our 'Books near-desktop power these days create a lot of heat.
The Targus Notebook Chill Mat has two cooling fans built into a plastic platform, powered from one of the computer's USB ports. The power cord incorporates an on-off switch to help conserve power. Even with the fans shut down, the Chill Mat's air circulation channels allow laptop to passively cool more efficiently, and the unit also serves as a lap desk. Power consumption is 1.05 watts.
The Targus Notebook Chill Mat has two relatively large diameter (about 3 1/2 inches) fans that turn slowly and quietly while still moving a substantial volume of air (the rated capacity is 28 cubic feet per minute). Targus claims 25 DBL, the same amount of noise Apple says the G5 iMac makes with its three internal cooling fans.
The Chill Mat fans certainly make less noise than some laptop hard drives I've encountered, and it's a very subdued -- almost soothing -- sort of whispering sound, unlike the high pitched whine of the 'Books' internal fan units when they cut in.
The Chill Mat is sized perfectly for my 12-inch iBook, or a 12-inch PowerBook. Larger machines will overlap somewhat, although that should not affect its cooling performance substantially. Air will still be drawn past the underside of the computer and exhausted through the Chill Mat's back aperture.
The Chill Mat is lightweight at just 15 ounces (425 grams), and at dimensions of the 11.75" x 9" x 11/16" it should slip easily into most computer bags or backpacks.
The underside of the Chill Mat has a non-mar, rubbery plastic contact panel for traction and to protect furniture, and there are two non-skid rubber domes on the rear edge of the top surface to slightly elevate the back of the laptop for better air circulation and to prevent any slippage of the notebook, as well as circulation channels molded into the top panel.
The Chill Mat has the look and feel of being well-made and finished, and comes with a one-year warranty.
At $29.99, the Chill Mat makes a modestly-priced gift for someone you know with toasted thighs.
For more information, visit:
http://www.targus.com/us/product_details.asp?sku=PA248U
6. Apple Portable Fan Books by O'Reilly
A thoughtful gift or stocking-stuffer for anyone who owns a PowerBook or iBook -- or who will own one once Santa visits -- are O'Reilly's "Fan Books," colorful little guides that show users how to customize preferences and learn about the coolest cases, add-ons, and doodads that not only add functionality but also personalize their computers
"When you bring home a new Apple iBook, for example," says Derrick Story, author of both the "iBook Fan Book" (O'Reilly, $14.95) and "PowerBook Fan Book" ( $14.95), "it's really Apple's computer--not yours. All of the settings were made at the factory. But you can make it your iBook by sitting down with it and customizing a few simple preferences. This is my goal: to make Apple's iBook YOUR iBook as quickly as possible."
O'Reilly's Apple portable Fan Books are:
"PowerBook Fan Book"-- A guide to mastering all the features and taking advantage of the advanced capabilities of Apple's premium laptop. The "PowerBook Fan Book" takes readers through the process of getting familiar with their new machine and OS X Panther, learning handy tricks and using high-end features, and finding out about little-known but gotta-have accessories for their sleek and speedy new PowerBook.
PowerBook Fan Book
Derrick Story
ISBN: 0-596-00817-1,
112 pages,
$14.95 US, $21.95 CA
For more information, visit:
http://www.oreilly.com/catalog/powerbkfb/index.html
"iBook Fan Book"--Anyone who owns an iBook can count on the "iBook Fan Book" to give them everything they need to make the stylish little white wonder work -- and play -- just as hard as they do. The book covers: getting familiar with Mac OS X Panther; organizing a digital lifestyle; using advanced features; enjoying iBook at home, at the office, and on the go; minimizing time and stress; and maximizing fun and productivity.
iBook Fan Book
Derrick Story
ISBN: 0-596-00861-9,
128 pages,
$14.95 US, $21.95
For more information, visit:
http://www.oreilly.com/catalog/ibkfanbk/index.html
Ordering Information:
order@oreilly.com
1-800-998-9938
1-707-827-7000
http://www.oreilly.com
7. Keyboard Lights
Radech eyelighter
The Radtech eyelighter is an ear-mounted, super-bright, hands free, LED illuminator. - and it certainly is very bright.
The eyelighter super-bright LED lighting module is attached to a plastic coated, adjustable, metal, positional ear clip, allowing the miniscule, 10 gram unit to completely illuminate your field of vision. The manufacturer claims up to one mile visibility.
The eyelighter illuminates everything you look at, not just a portion of the keyboard. This may be a positive or negative characteristic, depending on your needs and circumstances. You won't have any trouble seeing the keys.
The unit is battery-powered with a claimed battery life of over 15 continuous hours.
Replacement batteries for the eyelighter cost $5.95-7.95. On the plus side, the eyelighter will not affect your 'Book's battery life.
The eyelighter features a squeeze-to-light function (the light comes on for as long as you squeeze the lamp unit, and an on/off switch, which is a bit stiff to operate in the test unit.
eyelighters are available in 3 illumination colors: bright white, bright blue and red. Blue and red are perfect when dark vision needs to be maintained. The eyelighter is designed to be worn on the right ear, and is compatible with eyeglasses and BT headsets. It worked fine with my wire rimmed specs.
Price range: $9.95-11.95
For more information, visit:
http://www.radtech.us/Products/Eyelighter.aspx
Nite•Key•Lite
The LapWorks Nite•Key•Lite is an 18 inch long serpentine keyboard lamp with two white LEDs that plugs into and draws power from one of your 'Book's USB ports. LapWorks says that on average, the Nite•Key•Lite's power consumption amounts to roughly 90 seconds per hour of battery life. The bulbless LED units have a projected service life of up to 8,000 hours, and it comes with a lifetime warranty.
The Nite•Key•Lite's flexible "gooseneck" wire stays in whatever position or orientation you arrange it, and the entire unit is so small and lightweight that there is essentially no penalty to taking it with you. The LED's soft white light is just enough to eliminate your keyboard without disturbing others.
The Nite•Key•Lite sells stand-alone for $19.95, or just ten dollars when you order at along with a LapWorks Laptop Desk (see above) (total $39.95).
For more information, visit:
Kensington FlyLight USB PowerBook Light
Similar in basic concept to the Nite•Key•Lite is the Kensington FlyLight USB PowerBook Light, which is available in Black or Platinum, with either a blue/white or red LED, and supplies gentle illumination of your keyboard that won't with minimal drain your battery.
Kensington FlyLight Features and Benefits
• No batteries, powered by USB port
• Long-lasting, bulb-free design for reliable light
• No switches, bulbs, or batteries to break or replace
• Gentle LED glow provides task light without disturbing anyone
• Flexible neck perfectly positions light over task
• Small and light enough to take anywhere
• Uses less than 90 seconds of battery charge per hour
Dimensions
19.0"L X 0.25"H X 0.5"W
FlyLight Platinum is backed by the Kensington 5-Year Warranty and free technical support.
The Flylight sells for $20.99
For more information, visit:
http://www.kensington.com/html/1176.html
Mars II LapLight
The Mars II LapLight also plugs into a USB Port
Features:
• Free to adjust the height and angle as much as user need in order to have the best light efficiency
• Slim and light design
• Available to add more Lights in order to increase the lighting
• Easy to carry with in briefcase or hand-carry
• Lower LED power consumption, longer life (up to 100,000 hours)
• Most single LED USB lights are dim and only cover a very small area
• Mars II LapLight's expendable add-on create a new level of clear bright light for your work area
• LapLight just plugs into any USB Ports, it can generate a stable, clear and full-spectrum light. For presentation or reading on the plane, The LapLight can give you enough light as needed and when needed
• Adjusting the brightness: simply directly adjust the angles and directions of Mars II's "magic cable" to any position required
• The Mars II LapLight is even bright enough to be use as a desk lamp
Mars II lap light- $10.50USD
For more information, visit:
http://fwdepot.com/thestore/product_info.php/products_id/328
8. CoolPad And Podium CoolPad by Road Tools
A modestly-priced gift that will provide improved laptop cooling is the Road Tools CoolPad, which comes in two models. The basic 'Traveler' CoolPad, and the Podium CoolPad, which allows you to adjust keyboard tilt using LEGO-like spacer blocks.
The CoolPad increases the airspace as well as elevating the back (or for better ergonomics, the front) of the laptop. The six small rubber pads on the bottom of the CoolPad hold the 'Book in place, making it a great tool for air travelers whose laptops slide around on tray tables.
With both versions there is nothing to attach; just place the laptop on either CoolPad base and the soft rubber holds it securely in place. Both versions pivot 360 degrees but have just enough resistance so they won't freely pivot while you're typing. The Podium CoolPad's stackable risers let you adjust the elevation by 1/2" increments.
The smaller 'Traveler' CoolPad was designed to easily fit in any laptop bag. The CoolPad allows you to easily pivot your laptop so everyone gets to see your dazzling Keynote presentation without rubbernecking. Guaranteed for life... $19.95
The Podium CoolPad is larger, has the adjustable tilt, and weighs about 15 ounces. The Podium allows you to elevate the back of your laptop in 1/2" increments to 1.25", 1.75", 2.25", and 2.75" My iBook is sitting on one right now. I've used CoolPads for years, and they're great. It sells for $29.95, and is also guaranteed for life.
For more information, visit:
http://roadtools.com/
or
http://roadtools.com/podium.html
9. LapBottom Provides A New Level Of Comfort
The LapBottom is a simple, comfortable solution to using your hot-running laptop on your lap, and now ships with new gripper pads that grip your laptop better and give you an even more secure work surface. In addition, an extra set of thicker pads will be included for those who prefer to use their laptop in a slightly slanted position.
The new LapBottom offers a sleeker profile, a more secure work surface, and gives you more options so that you choose the position that works best for you and the way you use your portable.
The LapBottom has a comfortably padded underside which grips your lap. The underside is now thinner yet a bit more rigid and firmer with the same comfortable feel. This thinner profile makes the LapBottom more portable than ever before. The top combines raised ridges and non-slip "feet" to provide air flow under your laptop while holding it in place. It is made of light weight and durable materials. Measuring 12 1/4" x 9 1/2", it compresses to under an inch thick.
The LapBottom now comes with three different size self-adhesive feet which allow you to choose a variety of tilts or choose more or less air space under your laptop. The new polyurethane feet are more durable and hold your laptop more firmly in place.
This effective accessory provides:
• A comfortable and ergonomic way to use your laptop where it was meant to be
• Added stability at home or while traveling
• The air flow your laptop needs to cool itself and last longer
• Additional padding and protection when included in your carry case
LapBottom sells for $17.99 - $22.95
For more information, visit:
http://shop.store.yahoo.com/eapplestore/lapbottom.html
or
http://www.welovemacs.com/lapbottom.html
10. Ice Creme & Ice Creme M - Scratch Remover
Now you can easily remove surface abrasion and scratches from acrylic surfaces like iBook or iPod cases.
Ice Creme allows you to easily remove the scuffing, scratching and abrasion which tends to occur on highly polished acrylic panels, like those used in several consumer devices and popular computers. Products like the iPod, iBook, PDAs and cell phones can all benefit from the ease of use and power of Ice Creme. Makes scuffed-up plastic products gleam like new. Great when you want to spruce up or sell your gear.
The regular formula is for plastic products. The "M" version contains an additional bottle of metal polish for products like the iPod's polished metal back panel. Both versions include special application and polishing cloths.
Features:
* Two part formula removes even aggressive damage.
* "M" version removes damage from iPod's metal back pan.
* Enough to repair several units.
* Includes application and polishing cloths.
Price Range: $19.95 - $24.95
For more information, visit:
http://www.radtech.us/Products/Icecreme.aspx