FireWireBasics
PowerBook (FireWire)
5
New Technologies
FireWire
FireWire is a high speed serial data bus that can move large amounts of
data between computers and peripheral devices. It features simplified
cabling, hot swapping, and transfer speeds up to 400 megabits per second.
FireWire allows users to connect digital consumer products such as digital
camcorders, set-top boxes, and music systems directly to the computer.
PowerBook (FireWire) is the first of Apple’s portable computers to
feature built-in FireWire ports.
For more complete technical information about FireWire, see the Tech
Info Library article 30520, “FireWire: Technology Overview.”
AirPort
AirPort is a local area network (LAN) solution for wireless
communication among multiple computers. Instead of using cables and
wires, AirPort transfers data between computers via radio waves.
Through AirPort networks, users can gain access to the Internet, send and
receive e-mail, share files, play multi-player games, and perform other
network activities.
The AirPort product line includes the AirPort Base Station, AirPort
Software Base Station, and AirPort Card. iBook is the first of Apple’s
portable products to support the AirPort product line. PowerBook
(FireWire) is the first of the full-featured portable products to support
it.
For more information about AirPort, see AirPort Card under Boards and
Cards later in this chapter. You can also refer to the Tech Info Library or
the AirPort Service Manual on Service Source.