Sometimes you need a case that will protect your PowerBook from the daily commute, sometimes you need one that looks fashionable so that you can impress clients and other times you need a case that is virtually indestructable. To protect your PowerBook from the most severe punishment and handling you need a case that wraps your machine in a full-metal body armour that can stop a 22-caliber round fired at close range.
| Sometimes you need a case that will protect your PowerBook from the daily commute, sometimes you need one that looks fashionable so that you can impress clients and other times you need a case that is virtually indestructable. To protect your PowerBook from the most severe punishment and handling you need a case that wraps your machine in a full-metal body armour that can stop a 22-caliber round fired at close range. Enter the MacTruck from RadTech, an aluminum case that envelops your PowerBook in a rigid 3.2mm thick sarcophagus that can take a direct hit from small artillery fire. Ok, that last part is an exaggeration, but it sure feels like it. The model I tested was designed to fit the PowerBook Aluminum 15-inch (US$219) but it is also available for the 12-inch (US$199) and 17-inch (US$229) models. The MacTruck is constructed from 5052-H32 aluminum alloy in a clamshell design with numerous high-density foam spacers placed throughout that keep your PowerBook in place so that there is zero movement when the case is closed. Designed to be operated with your PowerBook inside, the MacTruck has low cut sidewalls to allow easy access to your ports while in the case. To open it, simply release the two latches underneath the handle, closing the lid locks the two halves together with a satisfying and audible “chunk.” Two D-rings on the outside of the handles provide a place to clip a shoulder strap if you want to carry it solo. The MacTruck can be carried on its own for that impressive I’ve-got-something-important-inside look or it can also be packed inside of another case for extra protection for the times when you want to go stealth. Other than the 5.3lb (2.4kg) of added weight (which comes with the territory) there isn’t much not to like about this case. Although it isn’t specified for it, I suspect that the MacTruck could easily protect your PowerBook in your checked luggage on a commercial flight, but with airline job satisfaction ratings dipping to an all time low I’d keep that sucker with me. Just be prepared to open it up at the security check point before your flight. 
Rating: Four our of Five Bolts. |
 Figure 1. The MacTruck is constructed of super-tough 3.2mm thick aluminum alloy.
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