[dodiax]

hi all,
This edition of the Volvo Ocean Race will take MacBookPros loaded with FinalCutPro on board, round the world. Those of you unfamiliar with sailing can find out more on www.ericssonracingteam.com. This is a challenging race and even under deck is a wet, tough environment. An onboard media guy will be filming, taking still photos, and editing on the aforementioned MacBookPro. Does anyone know of a good way to waterproof these things? Ideas and suggestions welcome. Note that there will be 7 boats - thus 7 MacBookPros - enduring these conditions. Many thanks

[rickcarl]

Google provides information on Pelican cases for protection when the computer is not in use. Terralogic provides ruggedized computers for extreme conditions. I keep my computer in an aluminum case on the construction job site.
If those don't suit you, invite me along and I'll keep the computers wiped down for you. :)
Your best bet is the same company who will keep your cameras dry.

Why choose a Mac? I'm assuming Apple provided the MBPs for the publicity. How many backups do you need?

Lots of high school kids mod Macs. Macworld had an article on mods. Hire a kid to take the aluminum shell off the MBP and mount it in an aluminum briefcase with waterproof connectors for the ports. Same for the backup hard drive storage and battery chargers.
Message was edited by: rickcarl

[dodiax]

thanks for a helpful reply. I'll look into those things.
I only wish Apple had provided - but no, Volvo's race organization is buying 1 per boat - but we're pretty sure a replacement or two will be necessary during the course of the race ;)

[rickcarl]

I don't believe in miracles or magic. The foundation that gets laid determines the size and shape of the building in my construction projects. So, with just 51 days to race day, you've not mentioned anyone familiar with MBP work flow or Final Cut software. Maybe you will need me to go along and wipe down the gear. :)

Or, since only the camera needs to be on the water, send me the MBP and the images so I can edit them in the safe/dry confines of my workspace. :)

[powerbook3]

Try Googling water proof cases for macbook pros. I'm not an expert at cases, though.



On a boat, though, maybe you may want to keep the MBP in the "room" place ondeck. where you can record from and water can't get into.



Also, since the MBP may fly off the boat, you may want to tie or strap it down to secure it.