get my son new iMac G5 or iBook/Powerbook???

Ann, not to scare you off, but the iBook and the eMac are very close relations. If one crashes, so will the other. Remember, there are two types of computers, those that have crashed and those that will crash.

If you are sure that you want to go with a laptop, I suggest the iBooks. They are very durable and every bit as capable as the PBs. Yes, the PBs have a slightly faster CPU and more VRAM, but he is not yet in high school and really seems to have no need for high-end stuff. You say price is not a factor, but I see nothing in your comments that indicate he would use anything more than an iBook could provide.

Buying a PB just because you can seems silly.

non-Apple RAM, not good for warranty...

yes, considering the firmware for the iBook is almost identical, i agree, i've never had trouble with either.

All RAM is non-Apple RAM and has absolutely no effect whatsoever on the warrantee.

Let's not scare her off with FUD.

actually, you'll find that RAM produced by Motorolla, the guys who make Apple's processors, are owned by Apple, they also make a lot of Apple's RAM...

I meant it doesn't carry the smae warranty conditions, and yes non-approved RAM can void you warranty. Most is approved though.

Peter, I am not trying to be argumentative, but Apple does not own Motorola. They do have a partnership in the AIM Alliance, but they are two different companies.

I have never seen a Motorola RAM module in a Mac. I have seen just about everything else from PNY to Hynix to Samsung, but was unaware that Motorola still made RAM modules.

I got this from the support section here. Apple "approved" RAM simply means this -

"iMac G5 computers work with memory modules (DIMMs) that meet all of these criteria: PC3200, unbuffered, nonparity, 184-pin, 400Mhz DDR SDRAM."

That sounds like almost all RAM manufactured today.

Vaild point, but overblown

The iBook comes w/ 512 RAM built onto the logic board

just get one 512 stick.

Apple is pricey @ $150

but consider Crucial or other places... or just hold off until u think u need more, but the $75 for a 256 chip is WAYY to much

I m a child also, (ok 17, but still a minor)

I could really use some upgrades for my mac, too bad my dad is a teacher 🙂, if u feel like sharing the wealth let me know 🙂 my graphics card needs an upgrade... and i m still using this sad little 17'' CRT with a big scratch on it.

Anywhoo...

If $$ is not option...

Consider a G5 powemac...

or a fully loaded iBook w/ 1.5 gigs of RAM

I have heard that an overclocked 12'' can cook an egg.

Basically,

if u break it messing around.

u pay for the repairs

My powerbook doesn't overheat.

When it is overclocked...

Plus... always be careful when using a laptop on a bed or somthing soft.

Make sure the fan vents are not covered up 🙂

Beautiful.

The iBook really will offer little improvement.

As a Mac Specialist at the Apple Store told me.

A 7th grader has no need for a Powerbook unless he is a child movie genius.

Ann,
I think a notebook is a bit much for 7th grade, and that this will be used at home. Therefore, the iMac G5 is the perfect follow-on to the iMac G4. Thanks for supporting Mac products.