Apple updates desktop lines - Reviews - Hardware - Desktops

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This story was printed from ZDNet Australia.
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Apple updates desktop lines

By Craig Simms, CNET.com.au
March 04, 2009
URL: http://www.zdnet.com.au/reviews/hardware/desktops/soa/Apple-updates-desktop-lines/0,139023402,339295253,00.htm

(Credit: Apple)

Apple today released new Mac Minis, iMacs and Mac Pros, refreshing some of its oldest products. Time capsule and AirPort Extreme were also updated.

The eagerly awaited new Mac Minis satisfy the rumours reported by MacRumors, featuring a 2.0GHz Core 2 Duo CPU, and based on Nvidia's 9400M graphics. Apple claims it uses up to 45 per cent less power than the previous model, and it starts at a base price of AU$1049.

New iMacs, similarly based on the 9400M chipset have hit the Apple store, with a 2.93GHz 24-inch iMac featuring a GeForce GT 120, and a 3.06GHz 24-inch iMac featuring a GeForce GT 130. The 20-inch model starts at AU$1999, while the 24-inch starts at $2499.

Nehalem based Mac Pros have also hit, the base configurations offering a redesigned interior, either one or two quad core processors, and featuring a GeForce GT 120. An ATI Radeon 4870 is also available as an option, with the base configuration starting at AU$4499.

All three desktops feature Apple's Mini DisplayPort, meaning an LED Cinema display can be hooked up to each. The Mini also features a Mini DVI port, while the Pro gets a full sized, Dual Link DVI port.

Time Capsule and AirPort Extreme were also updated, with simultaneous dual band Wi-Fi enabled, and a "Guest Networking" feature, that allows guests to access the internet, but not the rest of the network. They are available for AU$479 and AU$279 respectively.