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blanalex · May 27, 2005, 11:58 PM

Ever since Apple introduced the G3 processor to its products, there has been no mac with a model number that is easy to remember and refer to.

Let me explain: before the G3s, different models were named like PowerMac 5400/160, Centris 610, LC 520. With this name and number, we had important information about the computer, such as the generation and the processor speed.

Nowadays, only for the PowerMac G4 series, there's PCI Graphics, AGP Graphics, Gigabit Ethernet, Digital Audio, Quicksilver, Quicksilver 2002, Mirrored Drive Doors, FW800 et Mirrored Drive Doors 2003. Some of those are obvious (MDD), but how can I differenciate a MDD, a FW800 and a MDD 2003 ?

The generation is written nowhere on the casing and more often than not, the only way is to look at the back of the machine or open up the case (Digital audio and AGP Graphics).

So Apple, bring us back the model numbers on the computers, it's so much easier!

I already sent this comment to Apple, and if you agree with this, send your own comments to Apple!

discotronic · May 28, 2005, 12:04 AM

I haven't looked on my PowerMac but on the iMacs that I have owned there was a stamp or sticker on it, somewhere out of site, that told exactly what model that it was. It also had information to tell if it had Bluetooth or Airport Extreme built in. The iMac G5 has this sticker on the bottom of the stand. Maybe the PowerMacs need something like that also.

As far as putting the model numbers on the front of the case I can't agree with you on that. Model numbers look tacky.

lilrabbit129 · May 28, 2005, 02:37 AM

I agree that model numbers are nice. Having a model number for each generation of product would be nice. Instead of saying Rev. A 867mhz 12" Powerbook. We could have mentioned PB12A, PB12B, or something like that.

it's just MHO

GSixZero · May 28, 2005, 05:41 AM

Model numbers don't fit the apple way of doing things.

20 GB Click Wheel iPod vs. Sony NW-HD1
Early 2005 15" Powerbook vs. ThinkPad T43
iSight vs QuickCam Pro 4000

Most consumers would just be confused between the Apple Q73 (12" 1Ghz iBook) and Apple Q54A (12" 1.33Ghz Powerbook) Those are the actual code names for those machines. Or you could go with part numbers too! This is currently being typed on a Z0B61009. The part number uniquely identifies the machine type and factory options (memory amount, BT, optical drive choice, etc).

I think sticking with the names is much easier than remembering all those digits.

Big Mac · May 28, 2005, 09:55 AM

Originally Posted by discotronic

I haven't looked on my PowerMac but on the iMacs that I have owned there was a stamp or sticker on it, somewhere out of site, that told exactly what model that it was. It also had information to tell if it had Bluetooth or Airport Extreme built in. The iMac G5 has this sticker on the bottom of the stand. Maybe the PowerMacs need something like that also.

As far as putting the model numbers on the front of the case I can't agree with you on that. Model numbers look tacky.

I agree with the original poster to some extent and have raised a similar point in the past. I would be curious to know what your iMac sticker says. G5s have something like Power Mac Dual G5/PCI-X/SuperDrive. It does not have the clock speed, revision or even model number listed. If all Macs had the MLxxxx model numbers listed somewhere discreetly, that would be a good thing. It may be hard for people to memorize product model numbers, but leaving generic product names really does not help the situation. People shouldn't have to expend all sorts of energy over whether they own QuickSilvers or Late 2003s iBooks or June 2004s G5s. Placing a model number somewhere on the case and, even better, in the About box, would really improve the situation.

tooki · May 28, 2005, 11:06 AM

There is a full specs sticker, even on current Power Macs: it's at the bottom of the opening when you take off the door.

tooki

blanalex · May 28, 2005, 01:10 PM

The reason I suggest why Apple should go back to model numbers is because I work in a high school that has many generations of iMacs (all G3 iMacs). When I call my tech center to repair an iMac, I have to either describe the whole computer (e.g. it's a slot-load iMac 333MHz with a ruby transluscent casing) or give the serial number of the computer (which is kinda long when I only want a quick answer).

Kenneth · May 28, 2005, 08:08 PM

I remember Steve said... model number was a failure.

Looking at the PowerMac 8500, 8600, Performa 6400, etc... buyers will get confused.
I like the product name instead of meaningless numbers.

tooki · May 28, 2005, 08:16 PM

Every model-numberless Mac does have a family number on it, you know -- for example, my AlBook is A1046.

Also, if you know your Macs, the names work well, because they are based on the biggest difference to the previous model. For example, the slot-load iMacs' biggest difference is the optical drive. It's usually pretty easy to spot.

tooki

P.S. There's no slot-load iMac 333MHz in ruby: all slot-load iMacs had CPU speeds in multiples of 50MHz. Only the last tray-loading iMacs (the ones that shipped with dimpled-buttoned-mice) came in 333MHz.

P · May 29, 2005, 09:36 AM

In my opinion, the best way would be to add some sort of unique identifier that is not advertised but that can be found rather easily, in say the the Apple System Profiler, or even better directly in the About this computer under the Apple menu. That way we could all identify them in troubleshooting discussions.

simonjames · May 29, 2005, 09:01 PM

how about an asset database with a lookup on serial number and a description field that has the mac model in it? Should then be able to track lemons and schedule regular maintenance more accurately.

macaddict0001 · May 30, 2005, 09:03 PM

Originally Posted by simonjames

how about an asset database with a lookup on serial number and a description field that has the mac model in it? Should then be able to track lemons and schedule regular maintenance more accurately.

there is one but I forget the url.

discotronic · May 31, 2005, 07:43 AM

Originally Posted by macaddict0001

there is one but I forget the url.

Go to the Support page on Apple's site. On the right hand side just scroll down and there is a field that says About Your Apple Product. You can enter the serial number of your machine. I don't know how far back it goes but I know it has all current lines in it.

Big Mac · May 31, 2005, 08:10 AM

Originally Posted by tooki

There is a full specs sticker, even on current Power Macs: it's at the bottom of the opening when you take off the door.

tooki

I'll be sure to note exactly what is listed on my G5's sticker when I finally get around to putting in those two extra DIMMs I purchased six months ago. I'm pretty sure it did not have Mxxxxxx/x family number on it, though. On the bright side, it is listed in System Profiler - I don't know why Apple didn't place it in About This Mac, too.

Kyros · Jun 2, 2005, 09:14 PM

They just need to bring back good codenames. Every mac-guru knows exactly what you mean when you say "pismo" for instance.

discotronic · Jun 4, 2005, 11:00 PM

Originally Posted by simonjames

how about an asset database with a lookup on serial number and a description field that has the mac model in it? Should then be able to track lemons and schedule regular maintenance more accurately.

Here is a great place that I found that does exactly what you are looking for:

http://www.chipmunk.nl/klantenservice/applemodel.html