MacBook Pro Core 2 Duo/Late 2006

This model, the Apple MacBook Pro "Core 2 Duo" 2.16 15-Inch, is powered by a 2.16 GHz "Core 2 Duo" (T7400) processor, which contains two independent "cores." It is equipped with a 4 MB shared level 2 cache on the chip, a 667 MHz frontside bus, 1.0 GB of 667 MHz PC2-5300 DDR2 SDRAM, and a 120 GB hard drive featuring "Sudden Motion Sensor" technology. For optical media, it includes a 6X dual-layer DVD±RW/CD-RW SuperDrive, an upgrade from the single-layer drive in prior 15-inch versions. The system also incorporates an ATI Mobility Radeon X1600 graphics processor with 128 MB of GDDR3 video memory and dual-link DVI support, driving a 15.4-inch widescreen 1440x900 TFT active-matrix display, with an optional glossy finish.

Inheriting features from earlier 15-inch MacBook Pro models, this version retains the fiber-optic "ambient light sensor" for automatic keyboard and screen brightness adjustment, the "scrolling TrackPad," the "MagSafe" power connector, a built-in iSight camera, and a bundled Apple Remote. Its connectivity suite consists of an ExpressCard/34 slot, AirPort Extreme (with 802.11n support added via a firmware update to complement 802.11g), Bluetooth 2.0+EDR, Gigabit Ethernet, a FireWire "400" port, two USB 2.0 ports, optical digital audio in/out, and DVI out. Notably, this "Core 2 Duo" iteration introduces a FireWire "800" port, a welcome addition for video professionals.

Released in late 2006, this 15-inch MacBook Pro delivered a solid performance boost over its Core Duo predecessor, thanks to the transition to the Intel Core 2 Duo processor. The 4MB of shared L2 cache was a notable enhancement, providing a smoother experience when handling multiple professional applications simultaneously. Its ATI Mobility Radeon X1600 graphics processor offered sufficient power for the graphical tasks of the era, and the optional glossy display provided more vibrant color reproduction. A key and highly appreciated addition was the FireWire 800 port, which was a significant benefit for video editors and others working with large data transfers. While retaining the established design, the updated internal architecture marked a definitive step forward, meeting the expectations of professional users for a more capable machine.