Apple Mac Mini: Small Yet Pricey

In this world of portables, people still accept rather cherish desktops. This is why Apple has updated and improved its tiny Mac, the Mac Mini. Though it is quite expensive, Mac lovers won’t miss the chance. To decide its pros and cons in detail, let us have a look at its specs and features.

Specs:

2.0GHz or 2.26 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo processor
3MB on-chip shared L2 cache running 1:1 with processor speed
1066MHz front side bus
Mac OS X v10.5 Leopard
2.0GHz Intel Core 2 Duo
1GB (one 1GB SO-DIMM) or 2GB (two 1GB SO-DIMMs) of 1066MHz DDR3 SDRAM; two SO-DIMM slots support up to 4GB
120GB, 250GB, or 320GB 5400-rpm Serial ATA hard disk drive
2” x 6.5” x 6.5”
2.9 lbs
BFR-free, PVC-free, highly recyclable aluminum and polycarbonate enclosure
Meets ENERGY STAR requirements
Rated EPEAT Gold
One FireWire 800 port
Five USB 2.0 ports
NVIDIA GeForce 9400M graphics processor
Extended desktop and video mirroring
Mini-DVI port
Mini Display Port output
Built in Wi-Fi networking
Built-in Bluetooth 2.1 + EDR
Built-in 10/100/1000BASE-T Gigabit Ethernet
Slot-loading SuperDrive with double-layer support
Combined optical digital audio input/audio line in (minijack)
Combined optical digital audio output/headphone out (minijack)
Built-in speaker

A one-year limited warranty

Features:

The NVIDIA GeForce 9400M graphics processor offers more powerful performance while watching HD videos, High resolution photos and playing 3D games. It comes with either a 120GB or a 320GB hard disk. It is faster than before because it uses 2.0GHz Intel Core 2 Duo processor with 1066MHz front side bus, and 3MB of L2 cache. By consuming less than 13 watts while being idle, Mac Mini proves to be an energy saver.

Due to the Wi-Fi technology, user gets rid of the network spun by cables. Wireless internet connectivity offers high speed data transfer, and wireless keyboard or mouse can also be connected via Bluetooth. The slot loading super drive offers CD/DVD burning with double layer support.

Software:

There is certain software which is preloaded into your Mac Mini before it reaches you, so that you can get more out of it as soon as you get your hands on it. Firstly, there is Mac OS X Leopard, which is the main operating system of Mac Mini. Beautifully designed Safari browser makes browsing fun with its attractive interface. Time Machine backs up your files without mush hassle. You can plan your day with iCal and Address book easily. Mail is the tool used to simplify the function of emailing. iChat allows video chat, and Boot Camp transforms your Mac into a Windows PC.

iPhoto, iMovie, iWeb and GarageBand are also preloaded in Mac Mini, as a part of iLife ’09. Other software include of iWork, MobileMe, Office, Aperture 2, Final Cut Express 4, and Logic Express 8.

Environment:

Mac Mini is more energy efficient, rated EPEAT Gold and meets Energy Star requirements. Many harmful toxins have been removed from it, and it is made of highly recyclable material.

Product’s Unique Selling Points:

Fast new Core 2 Duo processor
iLife ’08

Unique and minuscule body

Limitations:

Very expensive
Windows PCs offer more features and expandability for lesser price

Free phone support for only 90 days

Final Words:

Though it is uniquely small, but it is more expensive than its rivals. Also, it does not provide options for expandability. There are other manufacturers who are providing more in less cost.

Written by “Seemab”

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Tags: graphics processor, iPhoto, mac mini, mobileme, portables, watching hd videos, Wi-Fi