MacBook Pro Late 2011 17"

Introduced without an official press announcement, the MacBook Pro "Core i7" 2.4 17-Inch (Late 2011) is equipped with a 32 nm "Sandy Bridge" 2.4 GHz Intel "Core i7" processor (2760QM). This processor contains four independent "cores" on a single silicon chip, a 6 MB shared level 3 cache, 4 GB of 1333 MHz DDR3 SDRAM (PC3-10600) configured in pairs (two 2 GB modules), a 750 GB Serial ATA (5400 RPM) hard drive, and an 8X DL "SuperDrive". For graphics, it has dual processors: an AMD Radeon HD 6770M with 1 GB of dedicated GDDR5 memory and an Intel HD Graphics 3000 processor that utilizes 384 MB of system memory. It also includes an integrated FaceTime HD webcam.

The default configuration of this model features an LED-backlit 17.0-inch widescreen TFT active-matrix "glossy" display with a native resolution of 1920x1200, though an "anti-glare" (matte) version was available as a US$50 upgrade.

Connectivity options consist of AirPort Extreme (802.11a/b/g/n), Bluetooth 2.1+EDR, Gigabit Ethernet, one Firewire "800" port, three USB 2.0 ports, distinct audio in and out ports, an ExpressCard/34 expansion slot, and a "Thunderbolt" port. The Thunderbolt port is backward compatible with Mini DisplayPort, supports an external display at 2560x1600, and carries an audio signal. It also supports other peripherals using the Thunderbolt standard, offering up to 10 Gbps of bidirectional bandwidth.

This model is built with a "Unibody" aluminum case, which is milled from a single block of aluminum. It includes a backlit keyboard, a "no button" glass "inertial" multi-touch trackpad, and features a non-user-replaceable battery that provides an Apple-estimated 7 hours of use.

When compared to the model it replaced, this version is identical aside from a quicker processor and enhanced graphics capabilities.

The Late 2011 17-inch MacBook Pro was the end of an era, representing the last and most powerful of Apple's largest laptops. It was lauded for its expansive 1920x1200 display, which provided an unmatched portable canvas for creative professionals. The upgrade to a faster 2.4 GHz Sandy Bridge Core i7 processor and a more robust AMD Radeon HD 6770M graphics card ensured it had the power to match its screen size. Its extensive connectivity, including three USB ports and an ExpressCard/34 slot, was a key advantage for professional users. While a formidable machine, its legacy, like its 15-inch sibling, was unfortunately marred by the eventual widespread failure of its discrete graphics chip.