Firmware update for late ATI iMacs improves stability

Apple today posted the iMac ATI Radeon HD Graphics Firmware Update 1.0.1 for iMac owners with either the Radeon HD 2400 XT or HD 2600 Pro graphics cards. The update simply states that it addresses system stability issues in those systems, but does not mention whether any performance enhancing aspects are also included. Firmware updates require an u...

MacMall offering $100 rebates on new iMacs, in stock now

MacMall, Apple's largest direct reseller, is offering up to $100 in rebates on the just-announced Penryn-based iMacs, each of which comes with free shipping, a free printer, and a free copy of Parallel's Desktop 3.0. The reseller is claiming stock...

AMD smells a comeback with ATI All-in-Wonder HD

And you thought Microsoft bringing back the SideWinder was gnarly. Announced today, AMD is resurrecting the long-standing AIW line with its first-ever high-definition variant: the $199 ATI All-in-Wonder HD. The PCI Express 2.0 card attempts to handle both PC gaming and HDTV duties by boasting specs like DirectX 10.1 support, a 725MHz engine clock, 600MHz memory clock and MPEG2 / VC-1 / H.264 video decoder acceleration. You'll also find Vista and AMD LIVE! certification badges to go along with the dual-link DVI port, HDMI jack (which supports 5.1 Dolby Digital transmission) and optional component video connectivity. As expected, users can capture live programs (as well as pause / rewind) in SD or HD over-the-air, and there's even support for ClearQAM. For those looking to take their clips elsewhere, the bundled Avivo software converts it for viewing on some of today's most popular handhelds (yes, including the iPod). Look for models from Diamond Multimedia and VisionTek to hit retailers in North America late next month. Full release after the jump. Gallery: AMD smells a comeback with ATI All-in-Wonder HD Continue reading AMD smells a comeback with ATI All-in-Wonder HDPermalink | Email this | Comments

From the Lab: Penryn iMacs show promise

Macworld Lab has begun testing the new iMacs released Monday, and we’ve got results for the entry-level 2.4GHz model as well as the build-to-order 3.06GHz machine.

Speedier iMacs available

The online Apple Store was down for a time today, and returned with speedier iMacs.The two 20" models are at 2.4GHz and 2.6GHz, respectively. The former features 1GB memory, 250GB hard drive, 8x double-layer SuperDrive and a ATI Radeon HD 2400 XT with 128MB memory, while the later bumps the standard memory to 2GB, the drive to 320GB and the video card to a ATI Radeon HD 2600 PRO with 256MB memory (priced at $1199US and $1499US).Here's where it actually gets interesting. The top-of-the-line 24" model features a 3.06GHz Intel Core 2 Duo processor, 2GB memory standard, a 500GB hard drive, an 8x double-layer SuperDrive and a NVIDIA GeForce 8800 GS with 512MB memory. RAM maxes out at 4GB on that machine, and additional hard drive options are 750GB and 1TB. The starting price is $2199US.Its slightly less brawny sibling offers a 2.8GHz Intel Core 2 Duo processor, 2GB memory standard, 320GB hard drive, 8x double-layer SuperDrive and an ATI Radeon HD 2600 PRO with 256MB memory for $1799US.If you've been holding off on buying an iMac, now is the time to flip the switch.Thanks to everyone who sent this in!Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

iMac upgrades released

Section: Apple, Apple News, Updates, Mac + Computers, Desktops, iMac, OriginalsAs suspected by the rumor websites, Apple’s latest update comes to us on a surprisingly early Monday. The all-in-one desktop success has just been upgraded with brand new Intel Core 2 Duo “Penryn” processors and new video cards. The new processors range from 2.4GHz to 3.06GHz. Unfortunately, for 4 or 8 cores, you’ll still need a Mac Pro - as these are still dual core processors. The new models are as follows: 20-inch, 2.4GHz, 1GB RAM, 250GB Hard Drive, ATI Radeon HD 2400 XT 128MB. $1199 20-inch, 2.6GHz, 2GB RAM, 320GB Hard Drive, ATI Radeon HD 2600 PRO 256MB, $1499 24-inch, 2.8GHz, 2GB RAM, 320GB Hard Drive, ATI Radeon HD 2600 PRO 256MB, $1799 24-inch, 3.06GHz, 2GB RAM, 500GB Hard Drive, NVIDIA GeForce 8800 GS 512MB, $2199 Similarly to the recent MacBook Pro update, this update brings no new design - it is simply a regular update to keep the iMac’s up to speed with the competition. The new iMacs are available to purchase immediately from Apple retail stores, and the Apple Store online. Authorized Apple resellers should also be receiving stock of the new iMacs, if they haven’t already. Full Story » | Written by Stephen Chinnadorai for Appletell. | Comment on this Article »