|
 |
| |
iPort
iPort gets you connected!
|
|
Executive Summary:
iPort provides Rev. A & B iMacs (the original Bondi Blue models) with a fully compatible Mac-style Serial Port and an external Video Port. iPort is compatible with all Serial, MIDI and LocalTalk devices and will work with Apple and standard VGA monitors (adpter required for VGA).
Background
When Apple introduced the iMac the company had replaced the serial port with the more powerful and versatile USB port. However, old serial devices cannot be directly connected to USB, not to speak of LocalTalk or MIDI.
Also, the excellent but small monitor limited applications to 832x624 pixel resolution for any kind of serious work as the available higher resolution of 1024x768 pixels would reduce standard type sizes to a size that is hard to read.
Griffin Technology considered the options and came out with iPort - a piece of internal hardware that can be installed without soldering by any one who is proficient with a Philips screwdriver. iPort solves both problems in one neat design.
iPort makes use of the internal Infra-Red (IR) port to generate a true-blue Apple-style Serial Port capable of supporting MIDI, LocalTalk and bit rates of up to 2 MBit/s.
iPort also taps the internal video circuitry to offer a connection for an external monitor. The external monitor functions just like you would expect from the VGA port on a Wallstreet PowerBook - no big surprise if you consider that the iMac is essentially a PowerBook in different clothes.
So, what is in iPort for you?
The iPort universal adapter for iMacs has the I/O connections Mac users have come to depend on. Designed from the ground up with the iMac in mind it features video out capable of supporting up 1600x1200 resolution. It also supports video mirroring in iMac compatible video modes - this allows you to use your iMac for presentations with a second monitor for your audience to avoid rubber-necking.
The serial port on iPort is compatible with all serial devices that currently work with a Macintosh computer. It also supports LocalTalk networking, i.e. you can connect to a LocalTalk network and print on that trusty LaserWriter Select or share files just like all previous Macs have always been able to do. Or enter MIDI - no need for expensive and limited USB-MIDI adapters anymore!
The iPort not only preserves your investment in your current peripherals but turns your iMac into a full featured professional computer workstation!
Important Note: The iPort is currently only compatible with Rev "A" and Rev "B" models. iPort will NOT work with the newer Rev "C" or Rev "D", "flavored" models. The flavored iMac models lack the IR port used for serial communications. On these models the iPort video-out works works as intended - the iPort serial port is not available.
Reseller Inquiries Welcome
|
|
