iBook

In the wake of its successful iMac rollout, Apple Computer launched the iBook. This notebook computer earned surprised and delighted reviews from the technology sector. Companies that had not taken Apple seriously began to take notice. After years of obscurity, during which more than a few industry insiders predicted that the company would fold, Apple emerged as a leading innovator and technology solutions provider thanks in large part to the iMac and iBook.

The new Apple G4 iBook comes with faster memory and far better graphics. Its ATI graphics card is far superior to graphics cards used in iBook predecessors. You get far more processing speed with the G4--800 MHz and a 30 GB hard drive. The 12.1 inch display is clear and crisp, and you can comfortably watch movies on it or even run PowerPoint presentations through it.

The G4 is now considered Apple's entry-level notebook. It comes standard with 256 MB of RAM as well as 32 MB of video memory and a CD burner. The Tiger operating system, technically known as the OS X 10.3, runs as smooth as anything you'll find in the laptop industry. For an additional charge of about $100, you can sign onto Apple's wireless networking service.

While the standard wireless card can connect you to LANs, users have reported problems with signal consistency. The good news is that Apple supports extensive warranty programs, and the company's customer service department gets good ratings. Despite Apple's preoccupation with the iPod and the iTunes music service, it has demonstrated its continued proficiency in designing laptops with this G4 rollout.