Apple issues update for MacBook Air, warns against processor-speed tools
Last night, Apple issued an update for the MacBook Air. With the oh-so creative title of “MacBook Air Update,” this update is recommended for all users and fixes “issues with video playback and processor core idling.”
According to Apple, this update should not be installed until applications that modify processor operating characteristics (i.e. frequency and voltage), like CoolBook, are removed from the system. Apple says that these applications are not supported.
You can download this update by visiting the Apple support download website or by opening Software Update (Apple menu > Software Update). Apple has published a support note with extra information about this update. Thanks to everyone who sent this in! [Read]
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Mystery Apple box
Apple reader Gabriel Moore runs an Apple Certified Sales and Service store called Computer Evolution in Davenport, IA. He sent us a short note and link to a MobileMe Web Gallery with several pictures of a strange, Apple-labeled wooden box (picture above).
Gabriel writes “One of our customers noticed that we have a small collection of Old Macs in my service department and thought That he would give me something to add to the collection… Problem is I have no idea what it is or why it has the Apple name. Is this an after market fan boy box or a real product from Apple Computer? Any help from the readers or you would be awesome.”
It looks like the 1980’s Apple logotype, but I don’t remember seeing a box like this anywhere. It’s small enough that it could only contain something like an Apple IIc. Do any of you wonderful TUAW readers know what this box was used for? Let us know by leaving a comment below. Thanks to Gabriel for today’s stumper! [Read]
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Create your own Mac tablet
Many Mac users have wanted a tablet for years, but Apple has definitely failed to deliver such a device. But if you think that the ModBook is too expensive, or if you’re the DIY type, then why not build your own Mac tablet? Hack-A-Day has posted a gallery of images showing some of the various types of DIY (Do-It-Yourself) Mac tablets.
If you are too scared to start ripping apart a Mac notebook and blindly build your own tablet Mac, then why not take a peek at this Instructables project. If you have built your own Mac tablet before, be sure to tell us about it in the comments. Thanks, Victor! [hackaday]
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FastMac releases external charger for Mac notebook batteries
FastMac announced a new line of Mac notebook chargers today. FastMac found a work around for Apple not licensing the MagSafe chargers. TruePower U-Charge allows you to charge your notebook’s batteries externally. Note that this does not power the Mac, it only charges batteries.
This charger will charge iBook G3/G4 12″, PowerBook, MacBook, and MacBook Pro batteries without skipping a beat. FastMac also has plans for a 14.4V charger that would charge batteries for the clamshell iBook, iBook G4 14″, and Ti PowerBook 15″.
The TruePower U-Charge comes in 2 different colors (black and white) to match your machine better. The prices for these chargers start at $69.95. You can purchase the U-Charge on the FastMac website.
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