How Does A Macbook Work

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How Does A Macbook Work
Does Macbook Have A Camera
How Does A Macbook Work Faster
How Does A Macbook Work For Computer

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This was Apple's first Intel-based notebook, meaning that instead of using IBM, Motorola, and Apple's PowerPC chip, they replaced the processor with the Intel Core-Duo [source: Snell]. This was a big leap, since incorporating a new processor meant Apple had to ensure that their operating systems and software would still work on the Intel Macs. Their solution was a program called Rosetta, which would essentially 'translate' software written for PowerPC into language that the new Intel chip could process.

So why would Apple switch processors? It's all about speed. The first MacBook Pros gave users a huge speed boost over their predecessor, the PowerBook G4. Intel's core-duo processor was essentially two processors in one, which meant a jump in speed without a big drain on battery life. Of course, users responded well to the boost in speed, and while some users complained about small issues like compatibility with some older software, reviews of the new MacBook Pro were generally very positive [source: Snell].

Apple geared these new Macs towards existing PowerBook users and hardcore users, like designers, who needed fast speeds and a decent amount of storage. It's no accident that the first MacBook Pros looked and felt just like the PowerBook G4s that they replaced, but don't let looks fool you. The MacBook Pro is very different on the inside.

In the five years since its launch, the MacBook Pro has gotten faster and added more screen size options, and Apple has released software and hardware updates to address some user complaints from the early MacBook Pros. For example, early MacBook Pros' FireWire could only transfer 400 Mb of data per second, but Apple soon upgraded to FireWire 800, which can transfer twice as much data in the same amount of time [source: Knight]. The newest MacBook Pros use Thunderbolt to transfer data, which we'll talk more about later.

So what are the specs for the MacBook Pro? Find out on the next page!

In the spring of 2006, Apple unveiled the MacBook, a 13-inch (33-centimeter) laptop that would soon become a phenomenon. It replaced Apple's everyday laptop, the iBook, and the professional model, the PowerBook -- two laptops that had been popular, but not nearly as successful as the MacBook went on to be [source: Gallagher]. In a short time, the shiny, white, plastic MacBooks could be seen dotting the tables of cafés all across the world, staking their claim to counter space alongside lattes and gourmet muffins.

Perhaps it was the simplicity of the machine that made it so popular. With a sleek, elegant design, not overloaded with frills or unnecessary extras, it became the quintessential computer for college freshmen, young professionals and families alike. The standard white body, emblazoned with a glowing Apple logo, was unmistakably familiar, though a few willing to spend an extra $200 sported the even sleeker black-bodied model. Sure, PC owners had their multi-colored computers in different shapes and sizes, and with lots of buttons and customizable options, but MacBook owners didn't care because their machine was powerful, simple and beautiful. Plus, it was a Mac, which meant it faced few of the problems that plagued PCs, like crashing or viruses [source: Stein]

With all of the power and reliability of a Mac, the portability and professional look of similar PC laptops and a simplicity and ease of use that made Mac lovers of many former PC owners, the MacBook fit many people's idea of the perfect computer.

But then, suddenly, it was gone.

The last model update for the traditional MacBook came in mid-2010, and by July of 2011 the model had been discontinued in favor of the wafer-thin MacBook Air and the ultra-powerful MacBook Pro models. Apple didn't make a big deal out of the transition -- they simply stopped selling it. But even though you can't buy a new MacBook these days, refurbished models are still available and many people continue to own the trendy computer that took the laptop market by storm in the first decade of the millennium.

So what made the best-selling Mac in history so great? Keep reading to find out.

Contents

Many of the basic specs of the MacBook remained unchanged over the four years it was produced. The first MacBook was 13 inches (33 centimeters) wide, had a 1280 x 800 resolution screen, sported a plastic (polycarbonate) body and was available in two colors: black and white. The final 2010 version also had those same specs. The only major body change came in 2008, when the aluminum unibody model was released. However, in 2009 the aluminum unibody version was rebranded as the 13-inch MacBook Pro [source: Apple].

The internal hardware, on the other hand, was upgraded over time. In May of 2006 there were three versions of the MacBook available. The first had a 1.83 GHz Core Duo processor and a 60 GB hard drive. The second two were slightly more powerful, with a 2.0 GHz processor and an 80 GB hard drive. All three versions had 512 MB of memory. In mid-July, however, Intel unveiled its new Core 2 Duo processor, and the November 2006 MacBook offerings reflected that change. All three released that month sported the new Core 2 Duo processor (in 1.83 and 2.0 GHz). Another big change by the end of 2006 was that the top tier MacBook now had a 120 GB hard drive and 1 GB of memory -- twice as much storage space as its first tier model [source: EveryMac].

Over the next four years all specs on the MacBook continued to improve. By the time the computer was phased out in 2010, the offerings had increased tremendously -- a 2.4 GHz processor, a 250 GB hard drive and 2 GB of memory -- not far from what the 13-inch MacBook Pro was offering at the time.

The MacBook also featured a touchpad (or trackpad) mouse that sat right in front of the keyboard and a built-in camera right above the monitor. The 2006 model could get 6 hours of battery life from its lithium-polymer battery, and by 2010 the battery could last for 10 hours. The MacBook also had several ports to allow you to hook up with other devices. All versions of the MacBook featured an Ethernet port, two USB ports, a mini DisplayPort (to connect to a TV or computer monitor), a FireWire port (to hook into a computer network) and a DVD drive. Some early versions had separate in and out audio ports, but the later versions combined these into one [sources: Apple, Apple].

Apple is known for putting great quality software on all its computers. One of the highlights has always been the Mac operating system. Distinctly different from the Windows operating system found on most PCs, the Mac OS has been applauded for its simplicity, high quality and ease of use. In 2006 the standard operating system on the MacBook was Mac OS X Tiger -- which included a bunch of useful tools like Dashboard, Mail, iChat, Safari, QuickTime, Address Book and DVD Player. The 2006 MacBook also came with iLife (which included iPhoto, iTunes, iMovie, iDVD, iWeb and Garage Band) and Front Row, a media application [source: Apple].

It's clear that Apple found a winning combination with the MacBook's standard software, because by 2010 not much had changed. The operating system had gone through two iterations -- Leopard in 2007 and then Snow Leopard in 2009. Snow Leopard featured upgraded versions of the programs available with Tiger and Leopard, and a few additional features including Time Machine (a backup tool) [source: Apple]. It also offered iLife, which was made up of all the same programs as the 2006 version, except for iTunes (which is now available as a free download online).

While MacBooks already come with a great suite of software to make work and life easier, Apple offers a ton of extra software you can use to upgrade your system. One of the most popular software compilations is iWork, Apple's equivalent of Microsoft Office that includes page layout and design software, a spreadsheet program and presentation software. You can still get Microsoft Office for Mac, however, and Apple's version has file types that are compatible with the Microsoft version.

Another popular program for the MacBook is Logic Studio, which lets you record, mix and edit music. If you're a professional or amateur photographer, the Aperture software lets you edit and organize your photos. Final Cut Pro, another popular software, lets you edit video and other media using professional editing tools. With so many design and media tools, it's not surprising that Apple's software is used and loved by at-home experimenters and industry professionals alike.

The standard accessory you'll get with a MacBook is a power cord -- which is good because even though MacBooks have a long battery life, a laptop is useless without a power source. Everything else, however, must be purchased separately.

Apple offers a wide variety of MacBook accessories for sale; many improve the functionality of your MacBook, making it easier to use. A mouse and keyboard -- either with a USB cord or wireless -- are great if you spend a lot of time on the computer or use the MacBook for work. The mouse is especially helpful because the MacBook's fingertip trackpad can be difficult to use for extended periods of time. You can also buy a variety of adapters, such as cords to hook the computer to a television or even to covert the power supply so you can use your computer in other countries. Other functional add-ons include a stand, a smart card reader and a projector [source: Apple Store].

How Does A Macbook Work

Does Macbook Have A Camera

Some accessories you can purchase make the MacBook more fun to use. For example, if you like listening to music you might want to buy headphones or speakers. On the other hand, if you like creating music, Apple offers several types of DJ controllers so you can mix your own music, a guitar input so you can hook up your guitar to the computer, a microphone and even a music keyboard. If you use your computer for watching movies, purchasing a remote control would allow you to control the video playback from a comfy place on the couch. You can also get a webcam for chatting or business.

Sure the MacBook is fun and functional, but it’s not exactly cheap. If you buy one, you’ll probably want to protect your investment by making sure the MacBook is safe from theft or damage. For that purpose, Apple offers locks so you can stop your computer from walking away, and screen and keyboard protectors to defend against scratches and spills. If you’re worried about losing the information stored on your computer, you can buy Time Capsule, which is an external data backup device that ensures you won’t lose any files if something goes wrong.

To learn more about Macs, browse the links on the next page.

How Does A Macbook Work Faster

Sources

How Does A Macbook Work For Computer

Apple. 'Aperture 3.' (August 17, 2011).
Apple. 'iTunes.' (August 23, 2011).
Apple. 'iWork.' (August 17, 2011).
Apple. 'Logic Studio.' (August 17 2011).
Apple. 'MacBook (13-inch, Late 2006) - Technical Specifications.' (August 12, 2011).
Apple. 'MacBook (13-inch, Mid 2010) - Technical Specifications.' (August 12, 2011).
Apple. 'Mac OS X v10.4 Tiger.' (August 12, 2011). http://www.apple.com/support/tiger/
Apple. 'Mac OS X 10.6 Snow Leopard.' (August 12, 2011). http://store.apple.com/us/product/MC573Z/A
Apple Press Info. 'Apple Unveils New MacBook Featuring Intel Core Duo Processors.' Apple, May 16, 2006. (August 17, 2011). http://www.apple.com/pr/library/2006/05/16Apple-Unveils-New-MacBook-Featuring-Intel-Core-Duo-Processors.html
Apple Press Info. 'Apple Updates MacBook Pro Family with New Models & Innovative Built-in Battery for Up to 40 Percent Longer Battery Life.' Apple, June 8, 2009. (August 23, 2011). http://www.apple.com/pr/library/2009/06/08Apple-Updates-MacBook-Pro-Family-with-New-Models-Innovative-Built-in-Battery-for-Up-to-40-Percent-Longer-Battery-Life.html
Apple Store. 'Mac Accessories: Extras.' Apple. (August 17, 2011). http://store.apple.com/us/browse/home/shop_mac/mac_accessories/extras?mco=MTM3Njk5MDQ
Bradford, K.T. 'Apple MacBook (2010) Review.' Laptop, May 26, 2010. http://www.laptopmag.com/review/laptops/apple-macbook-2010.aspx
Covert, Adrian. 'We'll Miss You, Little Plastic MacBook.' Gizmodo, July 20, 2011. (August 11, 2011).
EveryMac. 'Mac Systems: Apple: MacBook.' (August 11, 2011). http://www.everymac.com/systems/apple/macbook/index-macbook.html
Gallagher, Dan, and John Letzing. 'Apple Lifts Wraps on New MacBooks.' The Wall Street Journal Market Watch, October 14, 2008. (August 17, 2011). http://www.marketwatch.com/story/apple-lifts-wraps-on-new-macbook-laptops
Intel. 'Microprocessor Quick Reference Guide.' (August 17, 2011). http://www.intel.com/pressroom/kits/quickrefyr.htm#2006
Stein, Scott. '7 Mac Myths Debunked (or Proven!)' LAPTOP, April 10, 2009. (August 6, 2011). http://www.laptopmag.com/mobile-life/mac-myths-debunked.aspx
Yin, Sara. 'Apple Discontinues White MacBooks.' PC Mag, July 20, 2011. (August 15, 2011). http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2388773,00.asp

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How Does A Macbook Work

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