2005 PowerBook G4s (#3): Slower trackpads, workaround; Brighter screens; more

Slower trackpads, workaround Yesterday we first reported that the new "scrolling" trackpads included on Apple's 2005 PowerBook G4 systems are considerably slower (at the fastest setting) in terms of cursor speed than the trackpads included with previous models.

We've since received a number of corroborating follow-up reports, with most readers reporting the slow cursor speeds as a minor detractor from the otherwise well-working new trackpad.

According to several reports, Apple is using a new manufacturer for the trackpads in its 2005 PowerBook G4s. Previously, the trackpads were manufactured Synaptics Inc.

Some users have reported success using MouseZoom, a preference pane which speeds up mouse cursor movement in Mac OS X, to improve the usability of the new trackpads.

Brighter screens, keyboards Several readers note that both the screens, and the backlit keyboards are brighter on the new PowerBook models.

While lamenting the slow trackpad speed, Thom Deevers notes the more intense screen and keyboard lighting:

"I own a 1.25 GHz (previous generation) PowerBook and just purchased the 1.5 GHz (new generation) PowerBook. The trackpad speed is noticeably slower. If I didn?t have previous experience with it though, it would be no big deal. I do prefer the faster tracking of the old model."

"I have also placed two PowerBooks (old and new) next to each other and the new PowerBook's screen is a lot brighter; and I mean a lot! The keyboard lighting is also a lot brighter. I prefer the brighter screen and keyboard but at night in dim light the display on the 1.5 is a tad on the too-bright side."

Mac OS X build version is 10.3.7 7T62; Install DVD with iLife MacFixIt reader Jason notes that the new PowerBooks ship with OS X 10.3.7 build 7T62.

Jason also notes that both Mac OS X 10.3.7 and iLife '05 are included on a single DVD with the new machines:

"The Mac OS X Install Disc 1 is a 6.69 GB DVD. It includes all of the iLife '05 applications, which can be installed by running the Install Bundled Software Only Application. (It's not a separate DVD, as is the case with the Mac mini.) The Mac OS 9 install disk includes a new installer that let you select which language version of Mac OS 9 you want to install. When installing the English version of Classic you end up version 1.8.3, build 168.9, Sep 20 2004 15:55:50. The version number matches that on my PowerMac G5 2X1.8GHz."

Developer Note for 12" model Apple has posted a Developer Note for the PowerBook G4" (2005) running at 1.5 GHz.

Of particular note is a section describing the new SMS (sudden-motion-sensor) hard drive protection mechanism:

"The Sudden Motion Sensor (SMS) helps to detect an accidental drop or fall by sensing a change in position and accelerated movement of the 12-inch PowerBook G4. In the event of a drop, the Mobile Motion Module instantly parks the hard drive heads to help lessen the risk of damage to the hard drive on impact. When the Mobile Motion Module senses that the PowerBook position is once again stable, it unlocks the hard drive heads and the system is up and running within seconds."

Problems with Kensington Trackball One MacFixIt reader reports a connectivity issue with an external, USB trackball manufactured by Kensington.

He writes:

"Got my new PowerBook G4 (2005) 17" this morning. I cannot get my Kensington trackball to see the MouseWorks extension which is clearly installed and visible inside the Extensions folder inside /System/Library. The control panel says that the extension is either not installed or not running. The USB connection is good as the cursor moves. But I cannot program the buttons. The same trackball and software and system has worked perfectly (with other Macs). Kensington said to install a previous version of the software but that didn't work either."

If you are having similar difficulties with any external USB devices and the new PowerBooks, please let us know.

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