How about this for the next PowerBook: Apple replaces the traditional power port with a FireWire port and allows charging of the PowerBook over FireWire.
This is not impossible because 6-pin FireWire was designed to carry power in addition to data. In fact, if you’ve got Mac OS 10.3 you can toss that RJ45 cable, because IP over FireWire is built into the OS.
The new AC adapter could look like a larger version of the current iPod FireWire adapter. Imagine the possibilities:
♦ You could charge your batteries from anything with a FireWire port. You could even borrow a friends iPod charger. Forgot your brick and it’s an emergency? No problem, just find a FireWire cable and an open FireWire port.
♦ Apple could release a combination PowerBook AC adapter/AirPort Express that would kick some serious ass. Imagine replacing two bulky items in your bag with one. I know that heat would be an issue, but it’s worth doing some R&D on.
The concept of an AC adapter and AirPort Express together is almost irresistible. A side benefit (at least on the spec sheet) is that the PowerBook gets a third FireWire port, although I don’t know how often you’d really use it.
Ok, it’s a little bit out there… what do you think? Can it be done?
How about this for the next PowerBook: Apple replaces the traditional power port with a FireWire port and allows charging of the PowerBook over FireWire.
This is not impossible because 6-pin FireWire was designed to carry power in addition to data. In fact, if you’ve got Mac OS 10.3 you can toss that RJ45 cable, because IP over FireWire is built into the OS.
The new AC adapter could look like a larger version of the current iPod FireWire adapter. Imagine the possibilities:
♦ You could charge your batteries from anything with a FireWire port. You could even borrow a friends iPod charger. Forgot your brick and it’s an emergency? No problem, just find a FireWire cable and an open FireWire port.
♦ Apple could release a combination PowerBook AC adapter/AirPort Express that would kick some serious ass. Imagine replacing two bulky items in your bag with one. I know that heat would be an issue, but it’s worth doing some R&D on.
The concept of an AC adapter and AirPort Express together is almost irresistible. A side benefit (at least on the spec sheet) is that the PowerBook gets a third FireWire port, although I don’t know how often you’d really use it.
Ok, it’s a little bit out there… what do you think? Can it be done?
