Put simply, the XPS M1210 is the most powerful and feature-packed 12. 1-inch notebook we’ve seen. This sleek 4. 8-pound system combines a dual-core processor with a 256MB discrete graphics card, plus integrated mobile broadband and a built-in webcam. Throw in Dell’s top-notch service for XPS customers and you have one of the best thin-and-light notebooks of the year, albeit at a steep price of $2,356. Dell’s sexy thin-and-light is the perfect combination of style and power. Pop the black top on this mini Media Center notebook, and you’re greeted with a dazzling gray-and-silver color scheme(Sony Vaio VGN-FZ battery).
Despite its demure (11. 7 x 8. 7 x 1. 2 inches) size, the M1210 offers a well-spaced keyboard that doesn’t leave you feeling cramped when typing. The only thing we don’t like about it is that the Page Up key is too close to the right Shift key. Above the keyboard reside three buttons for Power, Dell MediaDirect (which allows you to access media files without booting into Windows), and the 1. 3-megapixel Logitech QuickCam. A touchpad with a built-in scrollbar sits beneath the keyboard. The front bezel contains a set of illuminated multimedia buttons for volume, play/pause, stop, fast forward, and rewind, which really come in handy while on a flight or when sitting in other cramped quarters. Watching DVDs on the 12. 1-inch TrueLife screen was a pleasure, as the colors were bright and the visuals sharp. The screen maintains a wide viewing angle, so two people can watch a flick on this system at once(Sony VGP-BPS8 battery).
Dual headphone jacks on the front of the M1210 (dell xps m1210 battery) mean two people can listen simultaneously, too. The speakers below the display delivered tinny sound, which was a letdown for a notebook with such strong multimedia features. Connectivity options include Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, but the M1210′s(Sony VGP-BPL9 battery)main wireless attraction is the integrated Dell Mobile Broadband Card that connects to Verizon’s EV-DO service. (A Cingular HSDPA card should be an option by the time you read this. ) Road warriors who don’t want to concern themselves with tedious hotspot hunting will love this feature, as they can connect to the Web at broadband speeds from anywhere there’s coverage.
We averaged a very good 563 Kbps, which equated to speedy Web surfing. However, we did notice a few dropped connections when commuting from New Jersey to Manhattan. The rotating 1. 3-MP Logitech Quickcam sits atop the screen and works in tandem with an omnidirectional microphone for voice or video chats using the included copy of Skype.
The video quality wasn’t as good as an external webcam, but it’s convenient to have on board. Face tracking technology keeps a subject centered in the frame, so you’re free to move about a bit without ruining the shot. The M1210 is a productivity champ, as the 2. 16-GHz Core Duo T2600 processor combined with the 1GB of RAM notched a blistering score of 286 on our MobileMark 2005 benchmark test. As we expected, this machine didn’t hiccup when we ran a virus scan and a DVD simultaneously.
Even with all that power, the M1210′s battery lasted an impressive 4 hours and 29 minutes with Wi-Fi activated. What makes this Dell unique among 12. 1-inch notebooks is that it houses an Nvidia GeForce Go 7400 graphics card with a whopping 256MB of dedicated video memory. The M1210 turned in a 3DMark03 score of 4,456, which is good for a notebook in this weight class. When we ran our F. E. A. R. test, the XPS M1210 delivered 26 fps at 800 x 600 pixels, which is certainly playable (and better than the Sony VAIO SZ’s 23 fps) but less than stellar. Notching up the resolution to 1024 x 768 simply isn’t an option, as the system mustered only 5 fps. In addition to a one-year warranty, the M1210comes with Dell’s white-glove XPS service.
The package includes a 15-month subscription to security software and quick access to a dedicated group of XPS-trained support specialists. Offering integrated mobile broadband, a webcam, handy multimedia controls, excellent battery life, and DVD burning in a lightweight, stylish package, the Dell XPS M1210 is a winner on several fronts. Those in search of a strong all-around portable performer with money to burn can’t go wrong with this system. Audio and SpeakersThis is usually the part in a review where I say “get a pair of external speakers”
But I’m not going to say that. I was astounded at the sound the M1210 provided. In a 12? notebook you usually figure you’re lucky to get system sounds coming from a speaker on the bottom of the notebook. I played music and watched DVDs on the M1210 and the nicely positioned forward firing 4-ohm speakers generated very good audio quality. I am so impressed that I’ll say, if you’re travelling, save on the bulk and leave the external speakers at home — the loudness and clarity from these built-in speakers is more than adequate.
Bravo!The two headphone jacks is kind of a cool thing too. On a plane or in the back of a car you could fire up a movie and watch it with your fellow passenger each using your own headphones. Wireless CommunicationsDell has pulled out all of the stops in making the XPS M1210 (dell inspiron 9400 battery)wireless capable.
Here’s a quick rundown of the wireless options:Wi-Fi Choices: Intel Pro/Wireless 3945 WiFi 802. 11 a/b/g, Dell Wireless 1390 802. 11g, Dell Wireless 1490 802. 11a/gBluetooth (Dell Wireless 350 BlueTooth internal wireless card)WWAN (Cellular Broadband internet access) Choices: o Dell Wireless 5500 Mobile Broadband 3G HSDPA (Cingular US)o Dell Wireless 5700 Mobile Broadband CDMA EVDO (Verizon Wireless US) The broadband cellular communication addition to the M1210 (dell inspiron 9300 battery)is much welcomed. Dell provides the option of configuring your M1210 with an internal antenna for either EVDO or HSDPA. My review unit M1210 came configured with the Dell Wireless 5700 EVDO modem. Dell puts the cellular antenna in the screen, no ugly antenna sticking out.
One important consideration, if you choose the web cam AV communications package (about a $100 option), but don’t choose EVDO service at the time of purchase, you can upgrade and add WWAN later since it’s just a mini-PCI card you’d need to plug in. EVDO via Verizon is a real treat, if you have an existing Verizon wireless account it’s $60 a month for unlimited data transfer and if you don’t then the cost is $80 a month. You also have the option of paying $15 for 24 hour access to the Verizon EVDO network().
If you’re a highly mobile person EVDO can be a real blessing and keep you from fretting about where you’ll find the next hotspot. Speaking of finding wireless hotspots, Dell has included a unique feature called “Wi-Fi Catcher” located on the left side of the notebook. You can use this switch to turn off all wireless radios by putting it in the Off position, but far cooler than that, push it all the way forward and it will blink green as it searches for a Wi-Fi network and if one is present it glows solid green, if none is found it shows orange.
This Wi-Fi Catcher works whether the notebook is on, off or in standby mode. So there’s no need to boot up and search for wireless networks, just push this button to find out. BatteryInstead of running battery benchmark tests I used a real world battery drain test. At 100% charge I set the screen to half-brightness and pulled the plug on the XPS M1210.
I then performed various tasks such as downloading and installing Half Life 2 and playing it for a bit, surfing the web, downloading and installing 3DMark05, watching 10 minutes of a DVD, edited some photos for this review and also turned off wireless and just let the M1210 (compaq presario v2000 battery) idle for some time. In doing all of this the 9-cell battery ran down to 5% charge and Windows shut the notebook down at 2h 58 mins of usage. Since the M1210 here is configured with a dedicated graphics card and faster processor and I left wi-fi on, that time isn’t bad. If you had integrated graphics, wi-fi off and set your screen brightness lower you could easily achieve 4. 5 hours. My test was pretty abusive in terms of using demanding programs while on battery power.
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I then performed various tasks such as downloading and installing Half Life 2 and playing it for a bit, surfing the web, downloading and installing 3DMark05, watching 10 minutes of a DVD, edited some photos for this review and also turned off wireless and just let the M1210 (compaq presario v2000 battery) idle for some time. In doing all of this the 9-cell battery ran down to 5% charge and Windows shut the notebook down at 2h 58 mins of usage. Since the M1210 (Dell Inspiron 6400 battery )here is configured with a dedicated graphics card and faster processor and I left wi-fi on, that time isn’t bad. If you had integrated graphics, wi-fi off and set your screen brightness lower you could easily achieve 4. 5 hours. My test was pretty abusive in terms of using demanding programs while on battery power.
Nice backpack that could fit a 17inch laptop?
I need a new backpack. I am also buying a new laptop probably 17 inches. I don’t want a laptop bag, because most of them…are obviously laptop bags and I would feel like a target.
What I want is a cool backpack I could use for school or just general stuff, but also fit the bag. A lot of pockets would be nice. I don’t need a specific bag, just suggestions on brands.
Wenger Swiss Gear has some of the nicest laptop backpacks made!
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NV59 series I bought about three months ago and I absolutely love. The best choice in my opinion, is a BluRay disc, and the resolution of HD. When you saw my first BluRay disc I’ve seen gems populous country, is the clearest way. The only thing I had problems with the mouse pad, it’s pretty mind right now and then, it is quite difficult to describe, so I’ll see what happens ….. The hopeweather beautiful …. It jumps quite a long time, it is frustrating, especially if you notice when you enter everything you need, and then be rewritten. Just use the button to “freeze” mouse pad and use a normal mouse. Other then that this computer is a jewel, its fast and has enough space. More than enough space. This is good for the game or simply use as a computer company. Battery life is pretty low, but is never a problem for me as I hold this included most of the time. I think life is just over 4 hours. This can be set to buy a battery that lasts longer, or change the battery settings. Among many other things that I love this computer, I am particularly pleased that the Lite is easy to carry and weighs …. That said, to sum up what I absolutely love this computer and trade for anything!
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I have had nothing but Gateway desktop pc’s. This my first laptop and very happy with Gatweway NV5921u! Fast,quiet and very cool running! The blue cover looks awesome with the alligator motif! The touchpad has the multi-gesture feature! I have to get used to it but neat feature! The blu-ray player is nice feature and will output to HDTV. Time will tell how she holds up but I think this baby will keep on rockin! The only downside might be battery life–about 3 hours-but that is about average I understand.–the blu-ray player really sucks the power BTW! Did I mention how “Light” she is! Way more portable than a 17 inch laptop! The 15 inch screen might be smallish compared to a 17 incher but fine for me! A Webcam is included as well. Grab one now!
Awful customer service! I purchased a smilar model (They no longer make the model I have) Gateway laptop last August for school. I was wooed by the nifty backlit keyboard and the wide screen. I was happy with it for a few minutes, then I looked at the bottom of the laptop and realized it had a build date of January 2009, my computer was already 7 months old. After a few weeks of back and forth to class, the case started to loosen around the screen. After about two months, the keyboard started to warp and the keys began to crack. After threee months, it crashed for the first time. the customer service was horrible and the first thing they wanted me to do was purchase a restore CD. After talking to a few more techs, one revealed that I didn’t need the disk, the information was in a partitioned-off part of the hard drive. It crashed again a month later and I went through the same thing, they tried to sell me the disk then when I told them I knew I could restore it without the disk, they again walked me through that. the final straw was in my 6th month of ownership when I spilled orange juice in the keyboard and fried the motherboard. I entered customer service hell. They, AGAIN, tried to sell me a restore disk even though I told them it was partially booting up. Finally I set the computer up to be sent to their Temple, TX repair center. I had to give my credit card info via IM with a tech support agent. He gave me the instructions for packaging it, but neglected to tell me there was an e-mail with more instructions. I had sent off my computer with the original box and the power cord, both of which they said they wouldn’t return DESPITE the fact that the instructions were in an e-mail I got after I mailed it. I finally convinced them to send the unrepaired laptop back to me, I’m going to toss it in the Wabash river and buy an Asus.
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How do i disable double tapping of my touch-pad on my Gateway laptop computer?
During my initial days as a laptop user, I had discovered a mysterious phenomenon of sorts. I would be typing thick and fast, trusting my skills without paying too much attention and then when I would look back at the screen, I found the lines of text mysteriously intertwined!
It was a mystery because at first I didn’t realize that the erratic cursor movement is caused when your hand touches the totouch padhile you are typing. It can get annoying pretty quickly when all of a sudden you find that you are typing the password in the username box all because the touchpad mistook the accidental contact as tap.
I tried searching solutions to this problem & also tried fixing my mouse settings in the control panel, but none of those apply on my settings.
Btw, i am using Windows 7. My laptop model is Gateway NV53 (just to add info) I really need help so please please help me.
Okay, stop figiting with all of the technical stuff and listen closely. You don’t have to download anything or go to control panel, this is soooooo simple! Here’s an answer for everyone who has a Gateway Laptop
Okay, look at your keyboard at the very top. You’ll see a battery icon that has a light, right? Then there are a few more things that are lit up. There’s an icon that has what looks like a hand pointing to the bottom left of your keyboard. It has a plus sign on it. Okay, now with your finger, touch that button and a light will come on. Voila!! No more problems. Please pass this on.
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This machine is obtained as a gift for replacing Compaq laptop 3 years. Until now consider the configuration of this notebook. It makes me happy, hard, external influences and software (W7) works in a river of water. NO complaining. She works 16 hours a day every day, sometimes outside, while others sleep, and gives 100%. I watch movies, download streaming music, makes the home office, home video editing wmove Maker, I use the most effective anti-virus protection, is warm, not hot (even away from home), you should use a disk drive for these programs or information, you can use for a short period (1-2 days), even if you try to delete information, not just delete. The efforts of other more expensive machines are better, but this piece deserves five stars. With HP and AMAZON.COM (hopefully good for three years or more). Greetings
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LOVE this little machine
I had a little Acer 10.1″ netbook for about 6 months. Loved the portability and long battery life, but the small screen and keyboard were killing me, so I sold it. After doing a lot of research, I settled on this as a replacement. This little beauty is SWEET. The keyboard is springy and responsive, it looks SO classy with the brushed silver exterior, photos look amazing on its screen, and it’s still small and light enough to drop in a backpack. I considered buying an external DVD, but instead, I just shared the DVD tray on my desktop computer and loaded necessary software (Office 2007 Pro and Photoshop Elements 7) that way. Saved a few $$ by not buying that EDVD.
I was a little concerned about the uber-shiny and slippery touch pad, but I’ve had no trouble with it. I took the advice of someone who posted a review and used the little button above the touch pad to disable it before putting the computer to sleep and I haven’t experienced any of the unexpected freezing some other reviews highlight. As others have said, it’s a fingerprint magnet, but, hey…it’s a touch pad.
The left side of the palm rest is a little warmer than the right, but it’s not uncomfortable.
The web-cam powers right up and the images it produces are great. The built-in mic works fine for sitting a comfy distance away.
I charged it up, unplugged it, cranked up the screen brightness, and proceeded to uninstall HP bloatware, install Windows Security Essentials, Office, and PSE 7, watched some CBS videos, watched an hour-long TV show streamed from my desktop PC that I’d recorded via Win Media Center, and still it took over 5 hours to get the battery down to 10%. It took about 3.5 hours to charge it fully again (seemed a little long, but I wasn’t in any hurry) and I’m in the process of draining it for the second time. It ran internet videos very smoothly and just had a couple of hiccups on the video coming over my wireless from my desktop. I built a fairly complex, multi-layer image in Photoshop Elements and it was smooth and fast.
It’s only been a day, but I think I’m going to be VERY glad I made the switch to this machine. I have a couple of HDMI cables on order and can’t wait to try connecting it my HDTV and stream Netflix.
My only negative is the sticker-fest all over the palm rests. They look like they’d peel off easily, but I tried removing one andit was stuck down so tightly I was afraid I’d be left with just a sticky mess behind, so I left the stickers there.
Happy day! Hope this review pushed you over the edge.
Sweet Little Laptop
Pros: I was looking at netbooks, but found them too small. This is a perfect size for the coffee table, and looks very slick with the brushed aluminum. I has a really nice screen, and a great keyboard, with the play/pause/volume buttons you need for music playback on the top row. The HDMI out and 4 USB ports are a plus too.
Cons: I haven’t had any problems with with plastic trim coming apart, as one reviewer did. The only design flaw that I see is the rubber pieces that prevent the screen bezel from touching the keyboard bezel when the lid is closed are a little too small or shallow, so the screen bezel does get some very slight scratches. I think this can be minimized by not putting anything too heavy on top of the computer when closed, and not squeezing it too tight when carrying it. But that’s a minor problem. Also, the computer does get a little warm (esp. under the left palm, probably where the CPU is), perhaps too warm for extended use on one’s lap, but it’s super quiet — a trade-off I can live with.
Bottom Line: This is a great little laptop for the money. I highly recommend it.
Perfect Blend – Mobile and Capable
I purchased my DM3 w/ AMD Processor a few weeks ago. I was in the market for a MacBook Pro but when it came to time to submit my order in the Apple Checkout area, I decided to do some more research. I couldn’t fathom paying nearly twice as much as the DM3 for a 13″ MacBook Pro.
I appreciate the lightness of the DM3 at 4.2lbs. You’re easily able to move from room to room with it in one hand or carry it around in a notebook sleeve. Additionally, the mostly aluminum build and chick-let style keyboard are nearly ergonomically and aesthetically perfect. I call it my little HP Envy.
My DM3 came with 4GB of RAM, a 500GB HD, and a separate, sleek External HP-Branded DVD Media Drive. I love the Bluetooth functionality and the HDMI port. It makes it easy to connect to my cell or LCD TV. (I’ve connected it with BlackBerrys, Palm Pres, Android phones, and an iPhone with no issues. It also connects with other PCs with no problem.)
Despite what some reviewers may say, I haven’t experienced any lag even with resource intensive programs like iTunes and Norton Security Suite running in the background. I’ve routinely had YouTube running, with Microsoft Word, iTunes and Norton Security Suite running a virus scan in the background and not experienced an appreciable lag in performance.
I highly recommend this computer if you’re looking for something portable, stylish, and functional. It is all of these things and more. Shop around and enjoy it.
Elegant, Powerful, yet Mobile machine – I adore mine
This laptop is gorgeous. Thank you, HP, for finally rivaling Apple with something that doesn’t kill my budget. The mouse on this particular laptop can get weirdly greasy and get stuck in a weird zoom mode, but that is the only flaw I’ve found in over seven months of use. I’m a software developer and it’s worked great (even Windows 7 pretty much rocks) for developing, running several programs and VMs, watching movies, etc. The lack of an optical drive has annoyed me once, but the size is so convenient and there are plenty of USB ports for file transfer. The sleek look actually does garner stares when I visit coffee shops. This laptop rocks.
My left-click on HP 530 laptop doesnt work. I’ve had this problem for months now even tapping the mouse pad.
Usb mouse works properly
if i try to swap buttons in mouse settings, its the right-click that doesnt work, and tapping the mouse pad launches that little menu just like right-click does.
i know its not the cable, or driver. i tried reinstalling the driver before i took it for repairs. they couldnt fix this, so am stuck with the stupid mouse all the time
what do u suggest?
Your details are a little confusing.
Are you saying that even when you tap the mousepad, the “left click” does not function? When you swap the buttons in the mouse settings, you say then that the Right click doesn’t function (meaning the physical LEFT button doesn’t work regardless)… but then tapping the pad DOES work…
This means that the PHYSICAL left button that is mounted to the motherboard does not function, and it jammed down or broken. Not the plastic thing your finger touches.. the actual little button underneath it.
What are your options? Well, well, it is *possible* to replace that button, but it would require a few hours with a small needle soldering iron, and surface soldering (which is never fun). Otherwise, it would require replacing the printed circuit board that the button is mounted on. Most laptops have that button on the actual motherboard… some laptops have that button on a small separate printed circuit board.
But, you are either stuck with using an external mouse, or you are looking at an expensive repair… or you are looking at replacing the entire motherboard. There is no software fix for this.
Nowadays there are more and more people that tend to buy these devices because they became aware of the many advantages that they offer. One of the biggest advantages that a laptop computer offers is portability. Because these devices have small sizes and they also are lightweight, they have a very high portability factor. Being portable means that the user can carry it without no problems everywhere he goes. We can even work on a laptop even we are sitting on a bench in a park and the only condition of doing so, is having the battery full of even having a spare one.
All Acer Laptop batteries are components of a laptop computer that practically gives life. Having a fully charged battery means that you can work on your device for almost 3 hours, depending on the laptop that you own and on the plan that you use. On the market are many laptop manufacturers and all of them are struggling to be in top. A very respectful laptop manufacturer is Acer.
People tend to buy Acer laptop computers because they know that their products are reliable, well built, long lasting and they also have great specifications and features. The Acer laptop batteries are also very good, managing to have a life time of over 3 and a half hours.
Acer works in the computer hardware and software industry, but they also offer their services in consultant and IT service management. They manage to develop, manufacture and sell their products all over the world and the people who buy from them are numerous. Acer manages to produce high quality devices that have a good built quality and excellent specifications and features. People buy laptop computers from Acer because they are reliable and long lasting and their needs and requirements are satisfied. Besides the built quality and characteristics, Acer laptop batteries are also very good having great characteristics. They manage to keep the device alive for even 3 or 7 hours depending on the device and on the plan you use.
Most of the Acer laptop batteries are good, reliable, long lasting and high quality, and Acer is recommended because they manage to satisfy the needs and requirements of many people all over the world.
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www.epay-battery.com is an operated online retailer of high-quality electronics accessories, specialising in acer laptop battery and laptop ac adapter, battery chargers, camera batteries, camcorder batteries, milwaukee power tool batteries and motorola mobile phone batteries. Battery company has quickly grown to one of the top online USA retailers of electronics accessories, offering generic product brands that provide the same quality as the big brand names but at half the price.
What happened to my Acer laptop?
My Acer Aspire 7736Z-4088 laptop just randomly shut down during use and will not turn back on. I tried taking out the batter and putting it back, using just the AC adapter-nothing. I doubt it’s a heating problem because it’s never had any issues with overheating. The thing’s completely bricked, the light won’t even come on. What’s the issue, and how do I fix it?
Power cord is completely fine and I was working on it just normally, didn’t move it or anything, and the screen just went blank, flashed, and went white. I disconnected the batter and power adapter, plugged it all back in, and nothing.
and nope, no lights, no nothing.
It could be several issues. Since you tried using the laptop without the battery and just the charger and still a no-go, then it could mean that the charger is dead. If you try it with just the battery it could mean the battery is dead or just without any power. If both don’t work and you believe its neither of the two, then what may have happened is the internal part of the computer is damaged and you should take it to me a local computer repair store.
I had a similar issue and it turned out to be my charger. A friend recommended me to a store online that sold them with free shipping along with lifetime warranties on all their products. If you aren’t satisfied within 30 days, you can get a full refund.
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Laptop AC Adapter for Acer Aspire 1200 1300 1650 2000 3000 3100 3200 3500 4000 5000
To serve the functionality of the Mac OS (and because of historical differences), the Apple Keyboard’s layout differs somewhat from that of the more ubiquitous IBM PC keyboard, mainly in its modifier and special keys. Features different from other keyboards include:
The Command key (), used in most Mac keyboard shortcuts. The key functions as the Windows key in Windows environments, or a Meta key in Unix-like environments. In common applications, such as word processors, it is the equivalent to the Windows Control key. Compared to their equivalents of the standard IBM PC keyboard layout the Command key and the Option key are located in reverse order.
The “open” (hollow) & separate “closed” (solid) Apple logo keys () on the Apple II series, served functions similar to that of the Command key. The open-Apple key was combined with the Command key on Apple Desktop Bus keyboards (which were used on both the Apple IIgs and several years of Macintosh models) where it remained after the Apple II line was discontinued.
The Option key (), for entering diacritics and other special characters. Like the Shift and Control keys, the Option key serves as a modifier for the Command key shortcuts, as well as being used to type many special characters. It serves the function of the solid-Apple key in Apple II applications. It functions as the Alt key in Unix and Windows environments. Compared to their equivalents of the standard IBM PC keyboard layout the Command key and the Option key are located in reverse order.
Full-sized desktop keyboards with a dedicated numpad have function keys that can range up to F15, F16, or F19. F17-F19 keys were introduced with the aluminium USB keyboard. Compact keyboards such as the bluetooth wireless aluminium keyboard and the built-in keyboards on all Intel-based notebook PCs range from F1-F12 only, just like IBM PC keyboards.
A Clear key, instead of a Num Lock key, on models with full numeric keypads, as these are dedicated to numerals and not generally used for cursor control.
An “equals” key (=) added to the numeric keypad.
A Help key, instead of an Insert key, or on the most recent aluminum keyboards, a fn key, which toggles the function of the function keys between their default functions and special functions (volume control, expos, etc).
Two delete keys: Mac keyboards typically label the backward delete key as “delete,” whereas the forward delete key has the label “del” and the forward delete symbol () to differentiate it from the backward delete key.
Notebook computers typically include additional assignments shared with function keys reduce and increase brightness, volume up, volume down, mute, and eject (). Apple, since the release of the Pro Keyboard, provides these last four keys on desktop keyboards above the numeric keypad where status indicator lights are on many IBM PC keyboards. On the newest aluminium keyboard, these functions are accessed with the function keys, just like on the Apple laptops.
On Apple Desktop Bus keyboards, a power key (), used to turn on computers that supported it (and to type the Mac three-finger salute). It was placed in the upper left or upper right (in line with the function keys on keyboards that had them, otherwise above the other keys). The key was replaced with a more conventional power button on early USB keyboards, thanks to a proprietary pin wired to the Macintosh’s power supply in Apple’s early USB implementations, subsequently eliminated on the Pro Keyboard along with the special power supply pin. Most of its functions were transferred to the eject () key in such later keyboards (holding down the control key simultaneously to make the eject key act like the power key).
There is a difference between the return () and the enter () keys. They generate different keycodes and have different functions according to Macintosh User Interface Guidelines.
Similarly, although most software ignores it, the left versus right sets of modifier keys and the top number versus numeric keypad produce distinct keycodes (even on laptop keyboards where they only exist using the function key).
History
Six keys from a 2003 PowerBook G4 keyboard.
The Macintosh keyboards are somewhat reminiscent of the keyboards used for the Apple II.
Starting in 1977, the first Apple keyboards were built into the cases of the Apple II series and the later Apple III series systems. These first keyboards had chocolate brown keycaps with white legends and had about 52 keys. In 1983, Apple introduced its first separate keyboard with the Lisa; it incorporated a numeric keypad and lighter taupe-colored keycaps with black legends. It connected via a unique TRS port. The Macintosh updated the look somewhat and separated the numerical keypad from the alphanumeric unit, all of which connected by telephone-style modular cables. By 1986, the Macintosh Plus re-integrated the numerical keypad and became the standard for all successive keyboards. However, it also marked the last of the beige Apple-II-era designs which were usurped by the newer Snow White design language.
From the end of 1986 until 1998, all new Apple keyboards were “Platinum” gray and connected via the Apple Desktop Bus (ADB). The Apple IIe and IIc line continued with integrated keyboards, as did the PowerBook portable line of course, those of the latter being a darker gray color called “Smoke”. During the 90s, Apple offered various styles of keyboard, including extended keyboards which matched the features and size of their IBM PC AT counterparts.
The release of the first iMac introduced a matching compact, translucent-plastic keyboard based on laptop technology and marked the transition from ADB to USB. In July 2000, it was replaced with the full-sized Pro Keyboard, having slightly translucent black keys and a clear case. The PowerBook and iBook integrated keyboards followed suit with translucent keys first in bronze (PowerBook), then in black (PowerBook) and white (iBook). Coinciding with the introduction of the iMac G4 in 2002, Apple started making its keyboards white. On the Bluetooth Wireless Keyboard, Apple removed the adjustable feet from the back of the keyboard, giving it a solid base. This design was later quietly introduced on the wired version. The PowerBooks added another color, opaque aluminum with sometimes-backlit translucent legends, to the array of keyboard styles in use.
Current Keyboards
On August 7, 2007 Apple introduced their latest keyboards as of October 2008[update]. The new model is much thinner than its predecessors, requiring less wrist flexing and a slightly lower hand position for most users. Taking a cue from the portables, it has an aluminum enclosure, and the USB ports have been, once again, relocated to the right and left ends of the keyboard case. Software function and hardware control keys have a new arrangement, and there are keys associated with specific features of Mac OS X, such as Dashboard. In order to properly use these new features, a computer must be updated as of the initial ship date of the keyboards, usually with the built-in Software Update.
On March 3, 2009 Apple introduced an additional keyboard to their latest line of keyboards. The new keyboard is similar to the wireless keyboard due to the absence of the numeric keypad, however it is a wired keyboard with 2 USB 2.0 ports similar to the standard keyboard. Until this time the typical keyboard with the numeric keypad was titled “Apple Keyboard”, now the more-compact keyboard carries the name “Apple Keyboard” and the standard keyboard with numeric keys is titled “Apple Keyboard with Numeric Keypad”.
Compatibility
ADB connector
Apple’s oldest keyboards utilizing the phone-style modular connectors are not compatible with any other systems. However a few open-source projects have since developed adapters which allow them to be used on newer equipment and vice-versa.
Apple’s older ADB (Apple Desktop Bus) keyboards are compatible with other ADB-based systems, such as those from Sun, Next, HP, and Sony (and vice-versa for their non-Apple ADB keyboards). When using an USB adapter (such as the Griffin iMate), they function similarly to Apple’s later USB keyboards, although there can be problems using such setups with later versions of Mac OS X. Although external ADB ports ceased to be used after the Power Macintosh G3 (Blue and White), Apple still used ADB as the internal protocol for their laptop keyboards and trackpads until the last-generation PowerBooks and iBooks; for this reason, ADB drivers can still be found in Mac OS X 10.5 but not Mac OS X 10.6. Even with these operating systems, it is possible to use ADB devices with an USB adapter.
Apple’s USB keyboards are mostly compatible with Windows computers, and can be remapped (for example in order to regain the functionality of PrintScreen or to swap the cmd and alt key, using some freeware software ); the Command key works as the Windows key, the Option key as the Alt key, the Help key as the Insert key, and the Clear key as the Num Lock key. On the slightly older all white models the volume keys function as they would on a Macintosh, and the eject key has no function. With the new models released in August 2007 the volume, brightness, Expos, dashboard, eject and media controls no longer work without installing Apple’s Boot Camp software. This software allows for the volume, brightness, eject and media controls buttons to work properly, though the Expos and dashboard buttons still fail to do anything because Windows lacks this functionality.
The additional function keys placed where the Print Screen/SysRq, Scroll Lock, and Pause/Break keys are on most IBM PC keyboards (F13/F14 through F15/F16) do not work as those keys in Windows without a special driver. Apple has since released a driver, though it is only available bundled with Boot Camp.
The USB keyboard is also combined with a two-port USB hub, with the hub being USB 1.1 on older keyboards and USB 2.0 on the August 2007 model.
Models
Built-in Keyboards
Apple IIe built-in keyboard
Apple II/II Plus Introduced in 1977 the Apple II and II Plus came without a numeric keypad. There was also a black keyboard manufactured for a Bell & Howell edition.
Apple III/III Plus Introduced in 1980 the Apple III and III Plus introduced a numeric keypad and special command keys.
Apple IIe/IIe Platinum The Apple IIe series, introduced in 1983 once again eliminated the integrated numeric keypad, but offered an external one. However it did finally offer a “delete” key. In 1987 with the introduction of the Platinum IIe, the keypad was re-integrated and the keyboard was updated to conform to the newly released Apple Desktop Bus Keyboard.
Apple IIc/IIc Plus Introduced in 1984 the Apple IIc was the first portable keyboard and lacked a keypad. In 1988 the keyboard changed color from beige to Platinum and was revised to match the layout of the Apple Desktop Bus keyboard, though still without provision for a keypad.
Macintosh Portable Apple’s first truly portable computer, the Macintosh Portable released in 1989 had a full sized Apple Keyboard with optional built-in numeric keypad or trackball mouse.
PowerBook From 1991 to 2005 all of Apple’s portable PowerBook computers have included a smaller keyboard ranging in color from dark gray, to black, translucent bronze & charcoal and finally an aluminum finish with backlighting. Along the way, they have also included special function keys and embedded keypads.
eMate The dark green translucent keyboard of the eMate introduced in 1997 was essentially an Apple Newton keyboard.
iBook In 1999 The iBook series introduced the first ever white keyboards. Debuting in a transparent finish, the later models were opaque.
MacBook/MacBook Pro/MacBook Air In 2006 Apple introduced the MacBook series of computers. The MacBook Pro keyboard continued the aluminum treatment of the PowerBook line, while the MacBook remained white like the iBook before it and introduced a black model as well. The MacBook Air also used black keys. The introduction of Unibody MacBooks saw a unification across all of Apple’s keyboards to use black keys, the sole white keys remaining on the white MacBook.
Apple Numeric Keypad IIe (A2M2003)
Apple Numeric Keypad IIe
The Numeric Keypad IIe was Apple’s first external keypad. Released as an option specifically for the popular Apple IIe computer in 1983, it helped correct some of the II series’ shortcomings. Later the Platinum IIe would incorporate the numeric keypad into its built-in keyboard.
Lisa Keyboard (A6MB101)
The first keyboard not to be integrated into the CPU case like the Apple II & III series before it. Designed for use with the Apple Lisa, it was included with the system introduced in 1983. Like the Apple III before it, it was intended to be a business computer and included an integrated numeric keypad. Like all Apple computers before it, it came in a beige case to match the CPU and connected by a unique TRS connector. In addition it carried over the use of the “open” Apple key from the Apple III as a Command Key (though it was represented by the “close” Apple character) and included a pullout reference guide hidden under the keyboard.
Macintosh Keyboard (M0110)
Macintosh Keyboard
Introduced and included with the original Macintosh in 1984, it debuted without arrow keys to control the cursor nor an integrated numeric keypad. It used a unique telephone-cord style connector to the case. It also introduced a unique Command Key similar to the “open” Apple Key on the Lisa.
Macintosh Numeric Keypad (M0120)
Like the Apple IIe before it, the Macintosh provided an optional external keypad which also included arrow keys that daisy chained to the CPU via the telephone-cord connectors. Though introduced with the Macintosh in January, 1984, Apple did not ship it until September 1984 at a retail price of US$99.
Macintosh Plus Keyboard (M0110A)
Introduced and included with the Macintosh Plus in 1986, it was an extended keyboard that had a built-in numeric keypad. In 1987 it was updated to Apple’s new Platinum gray color. It continued to use the telephone-cord style connector to the CPU and was interchangeable with the M0110. Though Apple switched all other keyboards to Apple Desktop Bus connectors by this time, this keyboard was manufactured unchanged for 4 more years until the Plus was discontinued in 1991.
Apple Desktop Bus Keyboard (A9M0330)
Apple Desktop Bus Keyboard.
This was the first Apple keyboard to use the new input connection method the Apple Desktop Bus (ADB), first released and sold with the Apple IIGS. Designed to be used with both the Macintosh and Apple product lines it was the first to combine both the Macintosh Command Key and Apple “open” Apple key. Entirely Platinum gray in color (the Macintosh Plus has darker gray keys called “Smoke”), it was also the first to use Snow White design language that was similar to the Apple IIc. However, it duplicated the extended design established by the Plus. It was also the first to include an external power/reset button and an extra ADB port.
Apple Keyboard (M0116)
Apple (Standard) Keyboard
Also known as the Apple Standard Keyboard, it was the first to officially use this name. Apple would later reuse the name for a series of successive keyboards. The Apple Keyboard was a more solid version of the Apple Desktop Bus Keyboard and optionally included with the Macintosh II and SE in 1987. The heftier design solidified visually the power performance embodied by the upgraded Macs. Aside from weight the main difference was the significantly thicker frame width. It was the first keyboard to be sold separately from the CPU, giving the customer a choice of the basic or advanced keyboards offered by Apple.
Apple Extended Keyboard (M0115)
Main article: Apple Extended Keyboard
Apple’s advanced keyboard, the first to be sold optionally, was essentially a redesigned version of the Apple Keyboard, with an enhanced extended keyboard with FKeys and other PC-style keys. It included template guides above the top row of function keys to accommodate shortcut key references which accommodate many software packages. It was the heaviest of all the Macintosh keyboards and set the standard for many typists. It was sold separately from any Apple CPU and retailed for US$163.
Apple Keyboard II (M0487)
Apple Keyboard II
Introduced and sold with the Macintosh Classic and LC in 1990, this keyboard was almost identical to the original ADB Keyboard, but included flip down feet to change the typing angle and a design change that gave the frame and keys a more streamlined appearance. Internally, the M0487 differed from the original M0116, as the M0487 did not use mechanical keyswitches. In 1993, The Macintosh TV was the first Mac introduced in all black. It came with an identical black Keyboard II (using the same model number). This keyboard marked the return of Apple including a standard keyboard together with the CPU.
Apple Extended Keyboard II
Main article: Apple Extended Keyboard
A minor update to the Apple Extended Keyboard to coincide with the release of the Macintosh IIsi in 1990, it added an adjustable height feature.
(M0312) was manufactured with the classic Alps mechanisms
(M3501) was manufactured with Mitsumi or Alps mechanisms.
Apple Adjustable Keyboard (M1242)
Apple Adjustable Keyboard
Main article: Apple Adjustable Keyboard
The Apple Apple Adjustable Keyboard, sold optionally, was Apple’s foray into the ergonomic adjustable keyboard market in 1993. Often cited for its flimsy construction. It came with a separate keypad (not sold separately), the first to do so since the original Macintosh keyboard.
Newton Keyboard (X0044)
In the mid-90′s Apple released the Apple Newton sub-mini keyboard to allow quick input by a means other than hand-recognition which required extensive training to become useful. It connected by means of the Newtons serial interface. Many Mac users favoring the portable size were able to use it on a Mac utilizing a third party enabler. In a foreshadowing of the iPhone to come, the Newton also included a virtual keyboard.
Apple Design Keyboard (M2980)
The black Apple Design Keyboard.
This was the first major redesign of the Apple keyboard, featuring more fluid, curving lines to match the look of the new Apple product style. It was an unpopular replacement for the Apple Extended Keyboard II in 1994. Significantly lighter than its predecessors, it had a much softer and quieter key interface that was unpopular with many typists. Also, it only included one additional ADB port concealed on the underside, two of which on either end had become a standard feature on the Apple keyboards. This keyboard was also produced in black using the same model number (like the Apple Keyboard II before it), specifically for inclusion with the black Performa 5420 released primarily in Europe.
Twentieth Anniversary Macintosh Keyboard (M3459)
Bundled with the Twentieth Anniversary Macintosh in 1997, this keyboard once again excluded an integrated keypad, though unlike the Adjustable Keyboard none was offered. Based around a PowerBook form factor it also including an optional built-in trackpad and leather palm rests. This was the last ADB Keyboard Apple would produce and not sold separately.
Apple USB Keyboard (M2452)
Apple USB Keyboard (Bondi blue)
Released and sold with the iMac in 1998 this became the new standard for all Macintosh models for the next two years. It was the first to use translucent plastics, first in Bondi blue, then in a darker gray in the PowerMac line and fruit-colored for each of the five first color variations of the iMac. It had a built-in adjustable stand. It also marked a return to the standard keyboard with integrated keypad with the enhanced cursor keys above the keypad. Also, the keyboard had a power button on the top right side. This keyboard works with Windows except for the power button and f13-f16.
Apple Pro Keyboard (M7803)
Originally introduced as the Apple Pro Keyboard in 2000, but three years later Pro was dropped from the title. This keyboard reintroduced the additional extended function keys last seen in the Apple Design Keyboard and debuted in a clear case with black keys. Later a white key version was also offered. One major departure from all previous ADB & USB keyboards was the removal of the remote power key.
Apple Keyboard Essentially the same Apple Pro Keyboard, like many earlier products, Apple usurped and re-used its name (see SuperDrive). Following the name change, it was available only in white.
Apple Keyboard
Apple Keyboard (German) (A1048)
(A1048) Keeping the name of its predecessor, in 2005 the case of the “Apple Keyboard” was changed completely, eliminating the frame enclosing the keys.
(A1243) The Apple Keyboard introduced in 2007 has a solid aluminum enclosure, as does the matching but compact Apple Wireless Keyboard. This keyboard is the first to omit the long-enduring Apple logo (solid or open) that was originally included to support using the keyboard with the Apple IIgs from the Command key after 21 years, even though software and official documentation had always referred only to the key’s other legend, . Compared to older versions of the Apple keyboard and to PC keyboards it is reduced by approx. half the width of a standard key; accordingly, the Backspace, Enter and right Shift keys are narrower than on other keyboards. It has two down-stream USB 2.0 ports, one at each end of the keyboard. This model was renamed Apple Keyboard with Numeric Keypad after the release of the A1242 model in March 2009.
Apple Keyboard (A1242)
(A1242) Accompanying the Early 2009 iMac revisions is a new version of the wired keyboard, which omits the numeric pad as with its wireless counterpart. The full keyboard with numeric pad remains available as a built-to-order option for no extra charge, as well as a separate purchase.
Apple Wireless Keyboard
Main article: Apple Wireless Keyboard
(A1016) Introduced for the first time 2003 based on the Bluetooth standard. It was essentially identical to the revised Apple Keyboard offered the same year.
(A1255) In 2007 an updated model clad in aluminum was released, which, like the MacBook’s keyboard, eliminated the integrated numeric keypad and special keys. It takes 3 AA batteries, with the power button on the right side of the keyboard opposite of the battery opening. Sometime after March, 2009, the A1255 wireless keyboard layout changed to include more international alphabetical characters. The shift keys and return keys changed shape and size as did the graphics on a number of keys not limited to the escape and command keys. The case of the keyboard remained identical barring the punch-outs for the different key shapes.
(A1314) On October 20, 2009, the aluminum model was updated such that just two AA batteries are needed instead of three; the only change in physical appearance was the placement of the plastic window for the bluetooth transceiver, which moved from the left side of the keyboard’s bottom to the center. Like the Magic Mouse released on the same date, it requires Mac OS X 10.5.8 or later.
See also
Newton Virtual Keyboard
iPhone Virtual Keyboard
Apple Mouse
Timeline of Apple products
References
^ Image of the keyboard layout of a full-sized aluminum Apple keyboard
^ New slimline iMac keyboard revealed?, Electronista
^ Keyboard Software Update 1.2 Apple official support site Retrieved 2007-09-18
^ Keyboard – Apple Store
^ Sharpkeys
^ Keytweak
^ xkeycaps on linux
^ Extended Keyboard II & AppleDesign Keyboard Differences
^ Apple Wireless Keyboard manual (2009)
External links
Apple.com Keyboard
Apple Developer Connection 12-in Powerbook G4 Keyboard
v d e
Apple hardware
Apples
Apple I Apple II family (II II Plus, II Europlus, II J-Plus, IIe, IIc, IIGS, IIc Plus) Apple III family (Apple III, III Plus)
Lisas
Lisa Lisa 2/5 Lisa 2/10
Macintosh
desktops
Compact Macintosh family (128K, 512K, XL, Plus, 512Ke, SE, SE/30, SE FDHD, Classic, Classic II, Color Classic, Color Classic II) Macintosh II family (II, IIx, IIcx, IIci, IIfx, IIsi, IIvi, IIvx) LC family (LC, LC II, LC III, LC 475, LC III+, LC 520, LC 550, LC 575, LC 580, LC 630, 5200 LC, 5260 LC, 5300 LC, 5400 LC) Performa family Macintosh TV Quadra family (700, 900, 950, 800, 840AV, 610*, 650*, 660AV*, 605, 630) Centris family (610*, 650*, 660AV*) Power Macintosh family (6100, 7100, 8100, 6200, 5200, 9500, 7200, 7500, 8500, 6300, 5260, 5300, 5400, 7600, 6400, 4400, 5500, 6500, 7300, 8600, 9600, G3, B&W, G4, Cube, G5) 20th Anniversary Mac iMac family (G3, G4, G5, Core, Core 2) eMac Mac Pro Mac mini family (G4; Core; Core 2)
Laptops
Macintosh Portable PowerBook family: (100 series (100, 140, 170, 145, 160, 180, 165, 145B, 165c, 180c, 150) Duo series (210, 230, 250, 270c, 280, 280c, 2300c) 500 series (520, 520c, 540, 540c, 550c) 190 series (190, 190cs) 5300 series (5300, 5300cs, 5300c, 5300ce) 1400 series (1400c, 1400cs) 3400c 2400c G3 series (Wallstreet, Lombard, Pismo) G4 series (Titanium, Aluminum)) iBook family: (G3 series (Clamshell, Dual USB) G4) MacBook family: (MacBook series (Core; Core 2) Pro series (Core; Core 2) Air series (Core 2))
Servers
Workgroup Server (95, 60, 80, 6150, 8150, 9150, 7250, 8550, 7350, 9650) Network Server (500, 700) Macintosh Server (G3, G4) Xserve (G4, CN; G5, CN; Intel)
300 Modem 3.5″ Drive AirPort (Card, Base Station) AppleCD Disk II, IIc Hard Disk 20, 20SC IIe Card Interactive Television Box iPod accessories (Dock Connector, Camera Connector, iPod Hi-Fi, Nike+iPod) iSight Keyboard (Adjustable, Extended, Pro, Wireless) LocalTalk Mouse (Pro, Wireless, Mighty,Magic) Paladin Peripheral Cards (80-Column Text, Accelerators, Clocks, Processors, Serials) Pippin ProFile Remote Time Capsule USB Modem Xserve RAID
Italics indicate hardware currently produced. See also: Apple hardware before 1998, Apple hardware since 1998.
v d e
Keyboard keys
Dead keys
Compose
Modifier keys
Control Shift Alt/Option (Apple) AltGr Command/Meta (Apple/MIT/Sun keyboards) Windows X Super Hyper Fn (compact keyboards)
Lock keys
Scroll lock Num lock Caps lock
Navigation
Arrow Page Up/Page Down Home/End
Editing
Return/Enter Backspace Insert Delete Tab Space bar
Misc.
System request/Print screen Break/Pause Escape Menu Numeric keypad Function Power management (Power, Sleep, Wake) Language input Any key Macro key
Categories: Apple Inc. hardware | Apple Inc. peripherals | Apple II peripherals | Macintosh peripherals | Keyboards (computing)Hidden categories: Articles needing cleanup from February 2009 | All pages needing cleanup | Wikipedia introduction cleanup from February 2009 | Articles needing additional references from November 2006 | All articles needing additional references | Articles containing potentially dated statements from October 2008 | All articles containing potentially dated statements About the Author
How can I get internet on my Powerbook ? And how do I know what kind of Powerbook it is?
I have an Apple Macintosh Powerbook. It doesn’t have internet on it yet. Am I supposed to get an Airport Card or Airport Base Station? I don’t know what to do. Some sites say I need an a base station and an ethernet cable but that would just defeat the point of having a wireless computer? I just need internet on my laptop! Any help?
Also I don’t know what kind of Powerbook it is. How can I tell if it’s a g4?g3? I don’t understand! lOl Anyway…I think it’s a year 2000 but on the back it says Powerbook 400MHz/1MB Cache/64MB/10GB HD/8MB Video/DVD
I don’t know if that helps but does anyone have answers!?
Thanks
^_^
If you go up to the little blue apple symbol in the upper left of the menu bar, click on that, then click on “About this Mac,” it will tell you what you need to know.
If you’re trying to do wireless, it will need an Airport card (if it doesn’t already have one). And a wireless modem.
You don’t say if you have an Internet Service provider, or if you have a broadband connection of some kind in your home.
Laptop Cooler 17 Inch
Laptop Apple Macintosh Powerbook G3