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Ask the readers: PowerBook protection

I'm humble enough to admit when I need some help, and I'm lucky to have an esteemed group of readers such as yourselves comprising my very own hive mind. The issue is this:

My trusty PowerBook is getting on a bit in the years, and like all creatures, with age comes imperfection. The telltale signs of PowerBook pitting are starting to show on the wrist rests, and the lovely matte finish originally sported by the trackpad has begun to wear down, making it difficult to mouse. I know there are a few options out there for the wrist rests, and I'm leaning toward the Marware Protection Pack, but what can I do about the trackpad? The only trackpad covers I can find either have printed designs or come as part of an expensive protection packages.

I'm sure more than one of you has been in my position, so I look forward to your suggestions.

I'm humble enough to admit when I need some help, and I'm lucky to have an esteemed group of readers such as yourselves comprising my very...
 

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jc2k

I have a TiBook with a glossy track pad from years of use- so I just used darkroom tape (sorta like masking tape, but black). It has a subtle texture, and it's thin enough to not interfere. Works great and cost about 0.3¢

You could probably use artist tape too, but since it's white, it might get dirty after a while...

September 28 2006 at 7:07 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
Shawn

Try this http://www.shuffle-art.com/koobniks. I got one of their skins on my powerbook. great products. :)

September 28 2006 at 6:59 AM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
EL

I personally use ApplePeelz because it's 3M material and gives flexible options of what pieces to buy as opposed to Invisible Shield and others. Not to mention, it's cheaper than most I've seen.

I bought from ApplePeelz the wristguard package which came w/ the obviously the wrist guard piece and trackpad + button. But I did not like my trackpad to be anti-slip, so I didn't put that on.

Applying is quite simple and straightforward and it's not nearly as complicated as their site suggests. I am very happy w/ it. Recommended.

September 27 2006 at 11:41 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
Nick

3M make a very nice repositionable matte surfed tape that is available at OfficeDepot / OfficeMax. Buy a 2" wide roll and you will have enough for years.

Cut an oversized peice of tape, align one side against the edge of the trackpad and carefully lay it down making sure to get all the air out. Then trim to size with a sharp Xacto blade.

September 27 2006 at 6:16 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
Dripps

Charle, the applepeelz definately changes the feel of the track pad. It feels smooth with the protection applied. BUT the good news is it still responds just fine and after about two minutes I was used to it. I do like it now but don't expect it to retain the same surface feeling. The film is glossy and smooth.

September 27 2006 at 6:04 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
Joe Maller

I've a Marware wristpad on my MBP for several months. My previous PowerBook was pitted and scratched on its palm rests, making it look far more beaten than it was.

The Marware wristpad is nice, but the logo is too big and prominent, I'd scrub it off, but all the solvents I tested melted the pad. I'll probably replace the Marware wristpad with one from ApplePeelz when it wears out (or sooner, that logo really bugs me).

September 27 2006 at 5:48 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
justin dover

i agree with paulo - http://www.applepeelz.com for your trackpad. if you really want to make that old powerbook shine, i suggest sending it in to the folks over at http://www.colorwarepc.com/ tons of vibrant colors, and your book is bound to be protected by their x2 clear coat.

September 27 2006 at 2:02 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
techcastoni

I've had the Marware Protection Pack for the MacBook Pro for about two months of daily usage and I've seen no noticeable wear or tear. I think it's the best buy for this purpose.

September 27 2006 at 1:11 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
Mike Dent

Sorry no quick fix here! Any ideas when we might see the new MacBook Pro's with the Core Duo 2 chip? Before Xmas???

September 27 2006 at 12:10 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
techcastoni

Check out my review of the Marware Protection Pack for the MacBook Pro at http://www.techcastnetwork.co.uk/?p=112

September 27 2006 at 11:51 AM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
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