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cocodrilo · 12-30-2012, 08:00 PM

If you've used nothing but Dell computers all your life, how hard is it to switch to a MAC?

FLfan · 12-31-2012, 12:04 AM

It's weird. I have an iphone, iPod, and iPad, but still prefer windows format for my PC. I find it simpler. Go figure.

cocodrilo · 12-31-2012, 12:43 AM

Based on just what web reading I've done tonight, I think I'll buy a MAC. (To mention one advantage: MACs are targeted less than PCs by malware.)

FLfan · 12-31-2012, 11:11 AM

Good luck coco. Let us know about it.

**gator0254** · 12-31-2012, 01:59 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by cocodrilo

Thanks. My old printer still works like a charm, has paid for itself many times over. I will keep it with the old computer, when I buy the new one, as a backup.

Eventually, of course, they will stop selling the toner cartridges for it. I'm surprised they haven't already.

You can buy converter cables that will change the interface to a USB plug-in

a quick search for them is below

http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&s....1.-muLo7j6AuA

vaxcardinal · 12-31-2012, 03:43 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by cocodrilo

If you've used nothing but Dell computers all your life, how hard is it to switch to a MAC?

I've only used windows computers but my wife and kids convienced me to get an iMac. Havent actually opened the box and set it up yet. Plan on doing that on new years day. Dont think it will be difficult to switch, just plug it in and off you go.

cocodrilo · 12-31-2012, 07:27 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by vaxcardinal

I've only used windows computers but my wife and kids convienced me to get an iMac. Havent actually opened the box and set it up yet. Plan on doing that on new years day. Dont think it will be difficult to switch, just plug it in and off you go.

I'm just hoping that all the created files I have on my Dell can be loaded onto a MAC without any compatibility problem. (Mainly doc and pdf.)

vaxcardinal · 01-01-2013, 09:37 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by cocodrilo

I'm just hoping that all the created files I have on my Dell can be loaded onto a MAC without any compatibility problem. (Mainly doc and pdf.)

it depends on what software you use on your MAC. For PDF files, Adobe is free so no problems there. For Microsoft office files you can use "office" compatable free stuff like google docs. Or, you can buy microsoft office for a MAC or you can buy MAC software called pages (for word), numbers (for excel), keynote (for powerpoint). This software suite allows a richer document "creation" capability and is also compatable with the microsoft suite. I went with this option.

As for printers...I have an old HP 720 printer and have a USB adapter that enables be to use with my current windows computer so I plan on using that for my MAC.

vaxcardinal · 01-02-2013, 08:50 AM

got my imac setup...its blazing fast. Takes a lot of getting used to, especially the trackpad. Google will be your best friend

vaxcardinal · 01-02-2013, 05:59 PM

ran into problem #1...no compatible driver for my old HP printer so looks like i'll be getting a new printer.

HALLGATOR · 01-03-2013, 11:13 AM

In my opinion it is a total waste of money to pay for an antivirus. When I am working with people and their free trials run out I suggest Microsoft Security Essentials although there are others which are free and work well. Also,

cocodrilo · 01-04-2013, 10:59 AM

A PC AIO I'm looking at (won't be getting a Mac after all) has 4 USB 2.0 ports and 2 USB 3.0 ports. What do 2.0 and 3.0 mean?

Also, will a "Slim Tray Super Multi DVD Burner" burn CDs? I've burned plenty of CDs with my present Dell, but it won't burn a DVD.

cocodrilo · 01-04-2013, 11:23 AM

Noise is a problem for me because of a chronic ear condition. I have read that AIOs are quiet, but how quiet is quiet? I have not yet actually sat in front of one that's running. I would appreciate hearing from those with AIOs in terms of how really quiet they are. Would I be better off buying a PC with a tower (which of course has fan noise but will not be sitting right in front of me like an AIO), or do I not need to worry?

FLfan · 01-04-2013, 02:20 PM

Hey again,
I am sitting in front of my AIO right now and it is so quiet that I actually leaned right next to it to try to hear anything. It is really quiet, coco.

I will go to the Samsung site and get you a link to read the specs. Also, perhaps you should go to a Best Buy or HHGregg..don't have to purchase from them, and ask look at the various new models and get their feedback and ask them your questions also.
Unfortunately, the store is noisy, but in my silent office at this moment, this model AIO is super quiet.

HALLGATOR · 01-04-2013, 09:06 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by cocodrilo

A PC AIO I'm looking at (won't be getting a Mac after all) has 4 USB 2.0 ports and 2 USB 3.0 ports. What do 2.0 and 3.0 mean?

Also, will a "Slim Tray Super Multi DVD Burner" burn CDs? I've burned plenty of CDs with my present Dell, but it won't burn a DVD.

The difference is transfer rate. Here's a link that can explain it better:

http://www.usr.com/education/peripherals0.asp

More than likely the reason your current Dell won't burn DVDs is it is a CD burner and won't burn or play DVDs. On the other hand a DVD burner should also burn CDs.

**Juggernautz** · 01-04-2013, 11:39 PM

I'm happy w\ my Gateway PC & ASUS laptop but I do prefer Apple tablets & phones.

cocodrilo · 01-05-2013, 09:12 AM

Thanks for the responses. The AIO I'm thinking of buying comes pre-installed with Windows 7. I have never used 7 (I have Windows XP), but from what I've read it would be far preferable to Windows 8 for what I do (web surfing and word processing). I don't game, photoshop, watch movies, listen to music, or tweet. I have never owned a smart phone (I have a plain old "cell phone" for emergencies), laptop, ipad, egad, or any other computing essential other than a big old Dell desktop. Why would I need Windows 8? I know I would have to get used to 7, but is there any reason I should beware getting it instead of 8?

vaxcardinal · 01-05-2013, 09:40 AM

for what you do, either is fine.

HALLGATOR · 01-05-2013, 06:50 PM

I agree with vax, I have one computer still running XP and one running Windows 7. It won't take you long to get used to 7 although there are some differences so if you have any questions just ask.

**MJGator8104** · 01-05-2013, 09:36 PM

We have had a 23" HP Touchsmart 600 for just over 2 years. We love it. Very quiet, although it does have a fan. Basically these computers are similar to laptops in design, so that should be an indicator of loudness if you want a comparison. Like a laptop, you won't really be able take it apart and work on the insides, but if that's okay, I'd say they are a good option. We love ours.

We also use a wireless printer to minimize clutter. Plus the computer is wireless eliminating the Cat5 cable.