ARCHIVED: What is the iBook?
Debuting in September 1999, the iBook is Apple's first notebook computer targeted for the consumer audience. Its first incarnation, like its desktop cousin the iMac, was a durably built, brightly colored computer designed for non-professionals and the education market. It featured a built-in handle, full-sized keyboard, active-matrix screen, and a spring-loaded hinge, rather than a latch. In May 2001, Apple released a completely redesigned iBook. In this and in later incarnations, the iBook lacks a handle, but includes more ports, is much lighter, and sports a polycarbonate casing with a magnesium frame. The iBook is not quite as powerful as the PowerBook, Apple's professional notebook line, but costs less and includes an extensive software bundle.
The iBook does have its limitations, however. Like all other recent Macintosh computers, it does not have a floppy drive. It also doesn't feature infrared or SCSI ports, or a PC card bay. All models do have at least one USB port and a CD-ROM drive, however. The later models include FireWire and USB2.0 ports, a G4 processor, Bluetooth and AirPort Extreme capability, and either a Combo Drive (DVD/CD-RW) or a SuperDrive (DVD-R/CD-RW).
For specifications, accessories, pricing, and other information, visit Apple's iBook web page at:
http://www.apple.com/ibook/Also see:
Last modified on August 20, 2008.
