Apple has refreshed its MacBook Pro lineup with next-gen Intel processors (dual-core/quad-core) and graphics, high-speed Thunderbolt I/O tech and a new Facetime HD camera. So, what is Thunderbolt I/O?
Well, as senior Apple VP Phillip Schiller explains, Thunderbolt is a “revolutionary” new technology capable of delivering 10 gigabits per second, while supporting “every important” I/O standard.
According to Schiller, the advanced protocol – which was developed by Intel with collaboration from Apple – offers two bi-directional channels with transfer speeds up to 10Gbps each and delivers PCI Express directly to external high performance peripherals such as RAID arrays.
Thunderbolt I/O also supports FireWire, USB consumer devices, Gigabit Ethernet networks via adapters and DisplayPort for high resolution displays.
In addition, the new protocol works with existing adapters for HDMI, DVI and VGA displays.
Pricing:
13-inch MacBook Pro
The 13-inch MacBook Pro is available in two configurations: one with a 2.3 GHz Dual-Core Intel Core i5 and 320GB hard drive starting at $1,199; and one with a 2.7 GHz Dual-Core Intel Core i5 and 500GB hard drive starting at $1,499.
15-inch MacBook Pro
The 15-inch MacBook Pro is available in two models: one with a 2.0 GHz Quad-Core Intel Core i7, AMD Radeon HD 6490M and 500GB hard drive starting at $1,799 and one with a 2.2 GHz Quad-Core Intel Core i7, AMD Radeon HD 6750M and 750GB hard drive starting at $2,199.
17-inch MacBook Pro
The 17-inch MacBook Pro features a 2.2 GHz Quad-Core Intel Core i7, AMD Radeon HD 6750M and a 750GB hard drive. It is priced at $2,499.
Additional upgrades
Configure-to-order options include faster quad-core processors up to 2.3 GHz, additional hard drive capacity up to 750GB, solid state storage up to 512GB, more memory up to 8GB DDR3, antiglare and high-resolution display options.
