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PConvert · Jun 28, 2004, 01:17 PM

My 17" AlBook (1.5/1GB RAM/80GB 5400rpm/128VRAM) is set to arrive on wednesday. I'm already preparing with a new clean desk, but need a few peripherals.

Looking for a good bluetooth mouse (2button with wheel please), software, and a sleeve (already have the Brenthaven case from Apple).

What works? What's the best bang for my buck?

Thanks

urrl78 · Jun 28, 2004, 02:20 PM

My Microsoft BT mouse is cool but I must remove a battery when transporting; wish there was an on/off switch. Scroll wheel and right click work great.

SupahCoolX · Jun 28, 2004, 07:41 PM

Check the Peripherals forum for 3425345 threads about which Bluetooth mice are best.
As for software, the various iLife apps are cool. What else do you use your computer for? What do you need?
I don't have any particular sleeve recommendations. I just use a regular-looking waterproof backpack that has a great padded compartment inside for a laptop. It offers great protection and doesn't look like a "laptop case," so it's not a thief magnet.

DeathToWindows · Jun 29, 2004, 11:59 AM

If you want a uber-portable mouse, the mini Targus usb mouse is good (if tiny).

Maybe get a USB light?

Ryan1524 · Jun 29, 2004, 12:15 PM

he has a 17" PB with a backlit KB, why would he need a USB light??

dennisbolt · Jun 29, 2004, 02:28 PM

he has a 17" PB with a backlit KB, why would he need a USB light??

Because they are cool looking:-) The usb fan is also way cool-literally. I find the backlit keys to be real finicky and sometimes hard to read-especially the numbers and f-keys.

Ryan1524 · Jun 29, 2004, 03:07 PM

speaking of accessorizing, what's the best choice for a BT mouse?? the MX900 is the obvious choice, but it doesn't have ON/OFF button, and that's no good when we're carrying it around all the time. the Apple Mouse has it, but it only has ONE button (unacceptable). MacMice's The Mouse has a good Compromise - 2 buttons, a scroll, small and ON/OFF button - but it's NOT out yet.

which one would you get>?? or is there another alternative?

azdude · Jun 29, 2004, 05:15 PM

For the mobile (bluetooth-enabled) Powerbook user, it's gotta be the Bluetake BT500 (or any of the derivatives thereof: ThinkGeek, RadTech, etc...). Nice little mouse that works well with OS X.

Granted, if I could find this one for sale anywhere that sells to the US, I'd have bought it instead... it looks much nicer, and we're Mac people.

http://www.bcommart.com/products/cel...oth_mouse.html

Ryan1524 · Jun 29, 2004, 05:19 PM

the bluetake looks cheap.

the second one you mentioned. now that's one sexy mouse. i'd love to get one of those.

azdude · Jun 29, 2004, 05:54 PM

Looks cheap? Definitely. It's received great reviews, though...

If anyone's from or going to Thailand... pick up a few of these for the MacNN crowd--- we'll buy them from you for sure!

PConvert · Jun 29, 2004, 07:45 PM

My 17" was at my house today when I arrived. It is flawless (not one dead pixel) and beautiful. It just got dark in here and the keys lit up right on cue.

I'm getting wonderful wireless reception 2 floors below my source, and am just living it up. Warcraft III is beautiful in widescreen

. Can't wait to start making some music and getting my iLife going.

Thanks for the suggestions on mice - anyone have a sleeve recommendation?

Ryan1524 · Jun 29, 2004, 08:11 PM

protective - Monolith. it has hard corrugated plastic sides on top of the foam cushions, and an elastic suspension system to absorb drops.

sleek - Crumpler Sleeve. it's sleek, but not very protective since it's pretty thin.

Macpilot · Jun 29, 2004, 08:34 PM

Booq sleeves are pretty nice. I have the PowerSleeve for my 17.

Check it out:

www.booqbags.com

Gotta get a BT phone that works with iSync. I use my T630 as a modem through T Mobile. Speed is not great, but it works anywhere I have a signal.

An extra battery.

A stand of some kind for your desk. I use the PodiumPad. It swivels and is cool.

Congrats on the new Powerbook!