The Perfect Mac

It's that time again, approximately every three years I look to replace my primary computer and therefore, like many others, I’m eagerly anticipating Apple's next notebook refresh.

Since the release of Mac OS X in 2000, my computer of choice has always been Apple's 15" notebook, it all started with the PowerBook G4, which was replaced in 2006 by the MacBook Pro. Overall my computing needs are fairly standard (coding, web, office tools, image editing and HD video playback), however I am a big user of virtualisation and therefore a high speed processor and plenty of RAM is a key requirement. In recent years I have also always pushed for solid state drive (SSD), which for anyone who has ever used SSD will know, going back is simply not an option.

With these requirements you could argue that the current generation MacBook Air would be well suited, as in recent years the "low powered" processors have improved massively and the integrated Apple solid state storage is very impressive. Unfortunately the issue (as it stands today) is RAM, as the MacBook Air range has a maximum of 4GB with no option to upgrade (as the chips are soldered to the board). This would be a huge limitation, as running more than one high powered virtual machine would result in significant performance challenges (trust me, I've tried). Another challenge with the MacBook Air is the display size, although I could work with 13", I still feel that 15" is the right size for me, providing a great experience even when not connected to an external display.

To help Apple (just in case they are reading), I have put together my dream notebook specification:

• New "MacBook Air like" Unibody Design
• 15" Retina Display (2880x1800)
• Intel Quad Core i7 Processor (Ivy Bridge)
• 8GB DDR3 RAM
• Graphics capable of outputting to multiple displays
• 256GB+ Solid State Storage
• USB 3.0 and Thunderbolt
• 8+ Hours Battery Life

This is always a controversial topic, but personally I hope Apple decides to remove the optical drive (I have already removed it in my current MacBook Pro) as well as replaces the legacy 2.5" hard drive with the MacBook Air solid state storage format. In my opinion these two changes can only be considered positives, as it should result in a significant size and weight reduction, as well as offer additional options for better battery life. In the event that I ever need an optical drive or broader storage, I am happy to use an external device.

I also hope Apple continue their recent trend by delivering a high resolution (Retina) display for the MacBook range. Although this still feels like a long shot, it was discovered that Apple added a hidden setting in OS X Lion (and Mountain Lion) called "HiDPI", which essentially doubles the number of pixels used for user interface elements. As a result I do believe it's feasible that we will see this feature, which logically means a 15" display would be upgraded to a breathtaking 2880x1800 resolution (220dpi).

Finally, regarding dedicated graphics. In the past I have always added the high-end graphics option (from NVIDIA or AMD), however as I am not a Mac gamer and with Intel finally making some progress on the graphics front with Ivy Bridge, I would be happy to use integrated graphics. The only requirement I would have is that it can deliver smooth 1080p video playback and output to multiple high resolution displays (e.g. Apple 27" Cinema Display).

There you have it, my next notebook! Now all I need is for Apple to design, build and announce it, preferably in the next month or two.

BookArc - Turn your Laptop into a Desktop

I have previously written about the incredible Balmuda Design notebook stands, unfortunately with a starting price at $300 style comes at a steep price.

Thankfully I have come across a much more affordable option at just $50, known as the BookArc. This item has a simple design and solid build quality that gives you the same vertical effect as the $300 Balmuda Design Floater, only for a fraction of the price.

The BookArc is designed by Twelve South and will fit just about any Apple notebook. It uses silicone pad inserts to adjust the size and ensure your notebook does not get scratched.

For those on the lookout for a stylish vertical stand that is also great value for money I suggest you head over to www.twelvesouth.com.

Balmuda Design

When it comes to MacBook stands Balmuda Design should be considered the market specialists. Their products, the Floater and Lift, are not only perfect for the job, but also keep the Apple design principles close to heart. Unfortunately they do come at a premium with the Floater costing $300 and the Lift $375.

Balmuda Design Floater T3

The Floater is a premium vertical stand for your notebook. It's innovative, sleek and stylish design perfectly accompanies the new MacBook as both are cut from one sheet of aluminium. Its tapered design measures 1/10th of a millimetre and also includes two silicon rubber grips to prevent unwanted scratches to your notebook. Floater's width is adjustable allowing all current and previous MacBook models to be fitted. It also includes a center groove to allow connectors and wires to be securely placed.

Balmuda Design Lift

The Lift is a horizontal stand for your notebook. It is designed to work with an external keyboard and mouse, but still give you access to your notebook's screen. The Lift’s 100% aluminium construction assures steadiness whilst withstanding weighty notebooks. Its upper plate can be adjusted between 10 and 35 degrees by raising and lowering the middle front portion, while the rubber pads attached to the upper plate prevent your notebook from slipping. Finally under the base there is a handy oval-like cable organizer to help ensure your notebook cables don’t ruin the professional look.

How to Calibrate your Mac Battery

Apple states that you should calibrate the battery in your Mac at least once a month to ensure it is operating at peak performance and to prolong its life. The calibration process is very simple and if planned appropriately can be done so that it does not interrupt your work flow.

Please note this guide is for the MacBook (all models), MacBook Pro (all models) and MacBook Air only. Also I can only write for products Apple have released up to now, therefore any laptop released after 1st July 2009 may have a different process.

With these computers, follow these steps to calibrate your battery:

1. Plug in the power adapter and fully charge your battery until the LED on the magsafe plug changes from amber to green and the onscreen meter in the menu bar indicates that the battery is fully charged.
2. Allow the battery to rest in the fully charged state for at least two hours. You may use your computer during this time as long as the adapter remains plugged in.
3. Unplug the power adapter while the computer is still on and start running the computer off battery power. You may use your computer during this time. When your battery gets low, the low battery warning dialog appears on the screen.
4. At this point, save all work. Continue to use your computer; when the battery gets very low, the computer will automatically go to sleep.
5. Turn off the computer.
6. Repeat step 1. Re-attach the power adapter untill the the magsafe plug changes from amber to green and the onscreen meter in the menu bar indicates that the battery is fully charged.