Core Duo vs. Core 2 Duo for MacBook and MacBook Pro systems.

While perusing our selection of restored Mac laptops, many of you have been confused by the difference between the intel Core Duo and Core 2 Duo processors in the classic MacBooks. Here's the low-down on these two similarly named CPUs:

Core 2 Duo runs about 30% faster than a Core Duo.
Core 2 Duo has 64-bit architecture, while the Core Duo is 32-bit.

Both processors have the same front-side bus speed of 667MHz and the same L2 cache.

While the processor's clock speed may be the same, a 2GHz Core 2 Duo runs faster than a 2GHz Core Duo, by virtue of it's improved 64-bit architecture. In spite of this, the power draw (and heat generated) is nearly identical on both processors. However, the Core 2 Duo is available in faster speeds than the Core Duo, and more speed means more power draw, more power means more heat.

Note: Some sources claim that the Core 2 Duo runs hotter, draws more power and is less stable than the Core Duo but, if you're comparing CPUs with the same clock speed, you're likely to find those differences negligible during ordinary use (ie. anything other than benchmark tests).

You’ll find both the older Core Duo and Core 2 Duo processors installed in MacBook and MacBook Pro systems.

TechRestore, Inc.
115 Mason Circle
Suite E Concord, CA 94520
888-647-3786 Toll-Free
help@techrestore.com
Website Source : Apple MacBook Series Repair

What's the difference between a used and refurbished Mac?

You have lots of purchase options when it comes to buying a replacement Macintosh. Today we'll be focusing on MacBook and MacBook Pro systems - looking at the differences between used systems and refurbished. Is there a difference? Let's find out.

Why would you want to buy a used, refurbished or restored Mac in the first place? To save money, of course! Used, refurbished and restored MacBooks and MacBook Pro systems represent a great value to end users and businesses alike.

Used MacBook and MacBook Pro systems are typically pre-owned systems that come to you with a wipe-down and a smile. What we mean is that you don't get much when buying a used system, other than perhaps a photo of the unit you are buying and the word of a seller who tells you that everything works with the used product. That's about it - and for some people, this is fine and some great deals are to be had on used systems at places like Craiglist and eBay. However, you need to be careful when buying a used system - after all, you're not buying a toaster, you're buying a complex piece of equipment that performs hundreds of different tasks as you use it. Be sure you test the system for things like a WiFi connection, optical drive, hard drive, memory, screen brightness, keyboard lights, hinges, etc.. You get the picture - there's a lot of things that could be hidden that you don't want to miss when purchasing a used computer. We suggest taking the system to a repair center and having a certified technician inspect it for problems. This simple step could save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars down the road.

Let's move on to refurbished or restored MacBook and MacBook Pro systems. Typically, these systems have undergone an entirely different experience prior to being sold. This can include:

• Thorough diagnosis by Apple Certified Technicians to locate and replace any components that may have failed
• Test and replace known problem components such as screen hinges that may be failing
• Run extensive diagnosis software to insure that the hard drive, memory and optical drive are still operating within factory specifications. Any component that fails is replaced.
• Clean and replace any damaged case parts

In addition, the after sale experience is typically different for refurbished MacBook and MacBook Pro systems. Included with most refurbished or restored systems is:

• A warranty. Typically 30-days to 1-year
• A return policy - in case you are not happy with the system
• Professional packaging and often free shipping


So, clearly there are some big benefits to purchasing a refurbished or restored MacBook / MacBook Pro system vs. buying a used system. Yes, refurbished or restored systems can cost a bit more than a comparable used system. We recommend that you take a look at the pros and cons of each and make your decision based on the overall value of each condition.

TechRestore, Inc.
115 Mason Circle
Suite E Concord, CA 94520
888-647-3786 Toll-Free
help@techrestore.com
Website Source : MacBook Pro Systems Replacement

Repair - Restore - Recycle - the Three "R's" that keep our planet green.

We can all agree that filling our landfills up with old, discarded electronics is not a good idea. And shipping those products to another country to keep them out of sight and out of mind is not the answer either. There is a better way!

Repair - keep your electronics alive by performing economical repairs and upgrades. This is especially true for computers, PC and Mac alike. For example, if your MacBook is getting sluggish and you feel the need for (more) speed, be sure to consider a memory and/or hard drive upgrade that could give your trusty MacBook a new lease on life. Most MacBook systems shipping with 1-2 Gigabytes of memory that can be upgraded to 4-8 Gigabytes. A simple memory upgrade can dramatically increase the speed of your MacBook or MacBook Pro. And did you know that Apple recommends that you keep at least 10% of your hard drive free to keep your Mac running strong? If you have a 160 Gigabyte hard drive, you need to have 16 Gigabytes of hard drive space free at all times. Go below this amount and start filling up that drive all the way and you'll find that your Mac will continue to slow down and you may start seeing application crashes and other errors. This is especially true if you are using applications that require a large "scratch disc" such as Photoshop or InDesign.

Keeping on the topic of repairs, if you find yourself with a broken MacBook or MacBook Pro - before you consider replacing it, but sure to investigate your repair options. Things like broken screens, SuperDrives, keyboards and damaged case parts are easily repaired and at a fraction of the cost of replacing your entire system. Plus, you'll be doing the Earth a good turn by keeping your system out of the landfill. Even if you do decide it's time to upgrade, keeping your system functional with an economical repair is a great way to keep an extra computer around or better yet, pass it off to someone who can continue to get some good use out of it.

So, you've decided that you do need a new Mac. What next? Before buying that brand new shiny model that was just announced, take a look at some economical alternatives. Refurbished or Restored MacBook and MacBook Pro systems offer a fantastic value and can help stretch your budget. In fact, with the extra cash you'll save, you'll have enough to add some nice accessories like a nice big LCD display for your desk that you can connect to your MacBook when stationary. By purchasing a Restored computer system, you'll also be doing your part to reuse current technology and to keep more e-waste out of the landfill.

Finally, if it is time to retire that old trusty Mac, be sure to bring your system to a certified e-waste recycling center. The recycler will insure that your system is taken apart and recycled in the appropriate manner, with minimal impact on our environment.

TechRestore, Inc.
115 Mason Circle
Suite E Concord, CA 94520
888-647-3786 Toll-Free
help@techrestore.com
Website Source : Laptop Repair

Help! My MacBook Pro screen is not opening correctly. I think the screen hinges might be broken.

Laptop screen hinges are one of the most delicate parts (besides your LCD screen) on your MacBook or MacBook Pro. Older MacBook Pro systems are especially vulnerable to hinge damage due to the very thin aluminum that surrounds the LCD screen to keep it in place. First of all, let's discuss a few ways to avoid having your hinges get damaged in the first place.

Rule number one: ALWAYS use both hands when opening your screen. If you obey this one simple rule, your screen hinges and screen support assembly will last much longer. It sounds so simple, and yes, we forget about this important rule all the time, but when you grab your MacBook Pro and flip open the screen with one hand, you are flexing your screen in ways that it was not meant to be. Place your hands on either side of the screen and open slowly - it's easy, take a breath and relax before you "flip the lid". If you own an older MacBook Pro, be sure the latch on the front is released BEFORE you try and open your screen. It is very easy to bend your screen housing, or worse, break your MacBook Pro LCD screen.

Rule number two: Keep your MacBook Pro away from the edge! The edge of the table, the edge of the seat of your car, the edge of your desk...you get the idea. Another simple rule that can save you hundreds of dollars in repairs or parts replacement. Most hinge and screen frame damage is caused by drops - many of which could have been avoided if we all simply put our MacBook Pro away from the edge of whatever we are setting it on.

Rule number three: If your MacBook Pro is "parked" most of the time, you can probably skip this one - but, if you carry your MacBook Pro around a lot, get yourself a "sleeve" made of silicon, leather or other material that will help keep your MacBook Pro from slipping out of your butter fingers. Yeah, like we've never dropped ours before....trust us - you want a sleeve.

Rule number four: Get a good carrying case - one with a decent suspension. And no, we're not talking about your cars suspension - get a back that has a suspended inner section for your MacBook Pro if possible. This will keep your laptop from coming into contact with the ground, since we know you like to toss your bag around at the end of the day.

OK, so you followed all these rules and it still happened - your MacBook Pro screen is all bent up, or out of alignment with the rest of the computer. Or, maybe you can't even open the screen up. First thing....STOP - do not pass go, do not attempt to open up your screen. There are all kinds of wonderful cables and such that are housed right around your MacBook Pro hinge assembly. These delicate cables can get ripped apart easily, increasing the cost of the repair you are going to get done so you can use your MacBook Pro again. Go borrow someone else's computer to Google "MacBook Pro Hinge Repair" - don't risk opening up your screen and doing more damage.

When scheduling your repair you want to be sure to ask these questions:

Do you use Apple Certified Technicians to do your repairs? (YES)
How long of a warranty do you offer? (AT LEAST 1-YEAR)
Do you offer free shipping for repairs? (YES)
How long will the repair take? (24-HOURS)
Are you working out of your garage? (NO)
Do you offer toll-free customer support where I can speak to a human being? (YES)

We hope these tips help to keep your MacBook Pro running safe and strong. If you do wind up with a defective hinge or screen that needs replacement, you'll at least know some important questions to ask when scheduling your repair.

TechRestore, Inc.
115 Mason Circle
Suite E Concord, CA 94520
888-647-3786 Toll-Free
help@techrestore.com
Website Source : MacBook Repair