The MacBook Pro "Core i7" 2.6 17-Inch (Santa Rosa) is a build-to-order configuration of the 2.4 17-Inch (Santa Rosa) model, listed separately for user convenience. Other than the processor, these two models are identical.
This Apple MacBook Pro features a 2.6 GHz "Core 2 Duo" processor (T7800) with two independent cores, a 4 MB shared on-chip L2 cache, and an 800 MHz frontside bus. It includes 2.0 GB of 667 MHz PC2-5300 DDR2 SDRAM, a 160 GB (5400 RPM) hard drive with "Sudden Motion Sensor" technology, and an 8X dual-layer SuperDrive. Graphics are managed by an NVIDIA GeForce 8600M GT with 256 MB of GDDR3 SDRAM and dual-link DVI support, powering a 17-inch widescreen 1680x1050 TFT active-matrix display with a CCFL backlight, available in "matte" or "glossy" finishes (a higher-resolution 1920x1200 display was a custom option).
Externally, this model is effectively identical to the MacBook Pro "Core 2 Duo" 2.33 17" it replaced. It retains the fiber-optic "ambient light sensor," "scrolling TrackPad," "MagSafe" power connector, integrated iSight camera (with an unadvertised 1.3 MP resolution), and a bundled Apple Remote. Connectivity includes the same ExpressCard/34 slot, AirPort Extreme (with 802.11n supported by default), Bluetooth 2.0+EDR, Gigabit Ethernet, FireWire "400" and "800" ports, three USB 2.0 ports, optical digital audio in/out, and DVI out.
Internally, the "Santa Rosa" model uses a more advanced architecture with a faster frontside bus (800 MHz vs. 667 MHz), increased RAM capacity (4 GB vs. 3 GB), a superior graphics processor (NVIDIA GeForce 8600M GT instead of ATI Mobility Radeon X1600), and better power management, including a dynamically adjustable frontside bus that adds an extra fifteen minutes of estimated battery life.
Please be aware that, unlike the 15-inch "Santa Rosa" models, this 17-inch system uses a traditional CCFL backlit display rather than an LED-backlit one.