Still a Windows world...?

After several weeks with a Mac, we're glad to say that we're still very happy to have switched. Having said that, though, if you are trying to do anything remotely complex, there could be some complications. Here are some of the things to watch out for:

Application support - Make a list of the applications you simply can't live without. You'll find that many of them are available in Mac format. For those that aren't, there are often applications that accomplish the same task but with a slightly different (sometimes better!) format. If all else fails, there is always Virtual PC.

Physical considerations - Be sure that the Mac you are interested in will work in the space you have alloted to your computer. Most Mac's are smaller than PC's, especially the iMac with it's integrated computer/screen, but the new PowerMacs are really pretty big.

Printers and other hangers-on - Many printers have Mac drivers, as do many of the latest USB2 and IEEE1394 (Firewire) devices. Most external hard drives and CD/DVD readers and writers are simply plug and play. Be sure your favorite device has Mac support or develop an alternate plan. One word of caution: If you are using any serial devices, you will need a USB to Serial adapter (with Mac drivers) to convert. Sometimes that's just too much hassle to worry with.

New applications - Don't forget that one of the compelling reasons to swich is the newer Apple applications, especially those included with the iLife '04/'05 suites. These are simply some of the best and most seamless applications in the market today.

Advanced concerns - If you are on a network, you may have difficulties reaching attached printers, etc. from other machines in the workgroup. Sadly, this is one of the areas where Apple needs to do some work. A call to support will probably verify that, while the Apple support team is well-versed on Mac-centric issues, if there is any Windows interaction difficulty they quickly disclaim any and all responsibility.

A word of caution for Apple...The big push is to get us Windows folks to move permanantly to the Mac platform, buying fully into the program. While there is some help available on the website for those of us who switch, your mission, if you choose to accept it (and you'd better!) is to get some cross-platform folks who won't run for the hills when a customer whispers "Windows networking". As more folks buy into the program, their needs will be more sophisticated, and you will need to understand what they are saying and provide workable help.

Our suggestion would be to hit the problem head-on with a question in the Interactive Voice Response heard initially saying something like, "If you are switching from Windows, press number '#'...". This should lead to a special group for solving interactivity problems and in turn for creating more business for Apple!

OK, enough of this. I hope I haven't turned anyone off, because Mac's really are good, but you need to think it through and know what you are getting into. We would recommend the Mac Mini if you just want to dip your tippy toes into the water...it can be used with your existing monitor and any old USB keyboard/mouse you have laying around.

If you are ready to go, why not do your Sweetie a favor and bring one home for Valentine's Day????