Re: [tlug] Advice on buying a Macbook

[Jean-Christophe Helary <fusion@example.com>]

> 1. Where should I buy the puppy? I was thinking the Ginza Apple Store,
> just so taking it back for service or whatever would be easy. I would
> consider other options if they would save me a man or so.

I bought it online. No specific price benefit.

> 2. Is there an extended warranty offered by any vendor (especially the
> Apple Store; see (1)), and is it worth buying? How much does it cost,
> and how many additional years of warranty coverage does it confer?

The macosx-talk @ omnigroup members would say _YES_, especially for a  
laptop. I think the price for a 3 year warranty by Apple is 3man, but  
it depends on the machine (I seem to remember I got it at 3 man online).

> 3. I want to get a white model, but may want to upgrade the RAM at
> purchase time. Is this an option? How much RAM should I need? I plan
> to run the 'top in Linux most of the time, but there are a few things
> I want to keep OS X around for (see below).

Get the most RAM you can and get the fastest CPU there is. I got mine  
with a 2ghz/2gb pattern and am extremely happy with it. The current  
price setting makes it way cheaper to get 2gb too.

> 4. Which applications, if any, come bundled with the Macbook? I have
> some interest in Garage Band, and a lot of interest in iMovie or
> whatever Apple is calling their video editing software these days. If
> these apps do not come bundled, is there any cost advantage to buying
> them together with the Macbook itself?

iLife comes bundled with Macbook. Check the online Apple offer to see  
all you get.

> 5. Are there any accessories I will really want? I think I am covered
> in the carrying case / laptop bag department. And no, I a) do not
> consider the iPod an accessory, and b) will not be purchasing one.

mini vga adapter, USB modem, extra battery.

That is what I got because I also use the MB a lot outside, in buses  
or planes etc. And in places where I can only get dialup (it is  
hikari + wireless at home)  and vga displays for the presentations I  
make.

> 6. Are there any questions I forgot to ask? ;)

Is the machine fast and neat ? Yes and yes. :)

Jean-Christophe Helary