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iBook Q&A - Updated June 16, 2007
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What are the differences between the "Firewire Clamshell" iBook models?
Please note that the "Firewire Clamshell" iBook series was introduced on September 13, 2000 and discontinued May 1, 2001.
The differences between the iBook G3/366 (Firewire/Clamshell) and iBook G3/466 SE (Firewire/Clamshell) are relatively minor. Both share the same handle-equipped "clamshell" case design with the same display as their predecssors, but have a single Firewire port -- as the informal name implies -- as well as faster processors with on chip level 2 cache, larger standard hard drives, superior video, and different color options. These models also introduced a new hybrid A/V port with composite audio/video out capabilities.
The major differences are summarized below in this handy chart:
iBook (Clamshell) | ||
Processor: | 366 MHz | 466 MHz |
System Bus: | 66 MHz | 66 MHz |
Level 2 Cache: | 256k (on-chip) | 256k (on-chip) |
Memory Type: | PC66 SDRAM | PC66 SDRAM |
Std. RAM: | 64 MB | 64 MB |
Max. RAM: | 320 MB† | 320 MB† |
Display: | 12.1" TFT | 12.1" TFT |
Resolution: | 800x600 | 800x600 |
Video Card: | Rage Mobility | Rage Mobility |
Video RAM: | 8 MB | 8 MB |
Hard Drive: | 10.0 GB | 10.0 GB |
Optical Drive: | 24X CD-ROM | 4X DVD-ROM |
AirPort (802.11b): | Optional | Optional |
Bluetooth: | N/A | N/A |
Expansion: | AirPort | AirPort |
Battery Life: | 6 Hours | 6 Hours |
Case Color: | Indigo/Key Lime | Graphite/Key Lime |
Dimensions (Inches): | 1.8 x 13.5 x 11.6 | 1.8 x 13.5 x 11.6 |
Weight: | 6.7 lbs (3.04 kg) | 6.7 lbs (3.04 kg) |
Model No: | M7721LL/A* | M7720LL/A* |
Orig. Price: | US$1499 | US$1799 |
†This is the maximum RAM capacity as reported by Apple. Third-parties have been able to upgrade the RAM further using greater capacity memory modules. Please refer to the applicable specs pages for details.
*These model numbers were assigned to the more common "indigo" and "graphite" models, respectively. Please refer to the applicable specs pages for complete info.
Please refer to the Ultimate Mac Comparison feature to dynamically compare any iBook model to any other G3 or later Mac.
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