Apple computers are gaining popularity in homes and offices more than ever before. EDC has received more questions about Macs as Apple's market share continues to grow. I have been a Mac user for over 8 years, and EDC's entire staff uses Apple computers. They can be a great choice for home or office use depending on your needs.

Are You A Good Candidate To Switch?
As historically Windows users consider switching from Microsoft to Apple, some questions need to be answered to see if an Apple would be a good choice. Users who primarily use their workstation for web and email are usually good candidates for switching to Mac. Safari is the web browser included with OS X. While there are a few websites that have some compatibility issues with Safari, it is very similar to using Microsoft's Internet Explorer. Firefox is also a good web browser for a Mac. It is a free program, easily downloaded, and since it is more popular than Safari it has less compatibility issues with websites. (It is available at www.getfirefox.com) Also, for general office use, there are many office software systems built for Mac, including MS Office 2008. This allows you to use Word, Excel, PowerPoint and other MS Office products just as you would on a Windows workstation.

Users who play 3D video games may not be good Mac candidates because many of the currently popular games don't have Mac versions. Also, Mac hardware is not as customizable as PC hardware, and isn't usually the most cost-effective way to get a solid gaming system.

Another consideration for those thinking of switching to Apple is specialized software. A lot of industry specific software and custom made programs are not available for Mac. There are programs that are made to run Windows within the Mac operating system, and the EDC staff uses both Parallels and VMware Fusion to do this at our office. This allows you to continue to use those Windows based programs, but if you spend the majority of your time in the Windows screen, an Apple may not be the most efficient choice.

Why You Should Go Apple
If your usage habits make you a good switching candidate, an Apple computer is a great option because they are very reliable computers with a stable operating system. There are essentially no spyware or viruses on a Mac. They do exist, but currently the odds of getting one on your workstation is slim to none.

Also, Time Machine is a program included in OS 10.5 and offers an easy backup solution for Mac users. Since it is built in, you just plug in an external drive and it takes care of itself. You no longer have to worry about losing your pictures or files anymore. Backups are made automatically every 10 minutes.

Installing new hardware on a Mac is also more simple than a PC. Many Mac compatible devices have their drivers pre-installed into the operating system which makes the process extremely easy. Finally, Macs tend to run longer with fewer problems. OS X does not deteriorate with age like Windows, and you can use an OS X install for years with little degradation.

Choosing The Right Apple
Choosing which Apple product is right for you can be an easy process. Apple's iMac product line has the best balance of power and features and can be purchased within most budgets. iMacs come in a 20” and 24” models with various hardware configurations, and while you might be hesitant to buy a computer that's built into the display, you will most likely keep and use the computer for longer than a PC. It can be reasonable expected to use an Apple computer for 4 years with little to no problems, and that's a fairly normal life spam of most monitors. Because of the built-in design of iMacs, the space required on your desk is much less than a PC tower and monitor. Plus it definitely has a wow factor. It just looks cool.

If you prefer a laptop, a MacBook is generally more powerful than the average user will need. The main Benefits that the MacBook Pro has over the MacBook is the larger screen and a better video card. If you are doing any kind of 3D gaming, a Pro is probably necessary. Otherwise a MacBook is sufficient. A MacBook Air is a great tool for a traveler, however the limited features of the Air make it a better secondary computer, and the premium price makes it a luxury item for most users.

Although, Apple offers fewer options in their computer lines, even the least expensive model is generally more than enough power for the average user.

AppleCare Warranty
I recommend that new Apple users buy the Apple Care Warranty. This extends the 1 year warranty to 3 years, includes Apple phone support, and hardware replacement if something does become damaged. Our experience with Apple's Warranty Service has been great. Turn around time is reasonable and phone support is patient and helpful.

Transferring from PC to Mac
Apple is currently running a promotion that offers free information transfer from your old PC to any new Apple bought at the Apple Store by one of their Mac Geniuses. If going to an Apple store isn't and option (there aren't any currently in Lafayette), EDC can get you setup on your new computer. The transfer usually takes a couple of tech hours to get everything you need on your new workstation.

The best news is, buying your second Mac is much easier. There is a built-in program call Migration Assistant on all new Apple computers that pulls all your information, programs, and settings from your old Mac to the new one. It's the closest thing to plug and play you can get with new workstations.

If you feel that a Mac might be the best option for you, give us a call and we can help. After you have made the switch, you will wonder why you didn't do it sooner. For more information check out Apple's website www.apple.com/getamac.