All Things Microsoft > Microsoft Software
I have a diferent point of view
Laukev7:
I've been thinking of starting some website to help people switch to the Mac for a minimal cost, how to build your own Mac, how to find an alternative to software for Windows and stuff. I think it's not worth waiting for an alternative for PC, and that focus should be on switching people to OS X. I have to start working on that project one of these days.
worker201:
Why is windows so easy to use? Because of the over-exposure to windows. Why is windows over-exposed? Because it's so easy to use. Why is windows so easy to use?
infinite loop, terminating. That's ridiculous logic, and it needs to be flushed.
Although some *nixes claim to be desktop ready, they are only good for tech-savvy users. I am glad to offer any assistance I can to new users, but some people will never get the concept. However, these same people will never grasp the concept of NTFS permissions or registry editing or dll maintenance either, so I don't feel sorry for them.
OSX is light years beyond anything Microsoft has ever come up with. If Apple shipped ten times as many units as they do now, they would cost probably 20% less, that's economics for you. So if Macs are too expensive, you only have yourself to blame. ;)
Xeen:
This semester I'll actually be learning and using the Mac OSX a lot for the first time.
But here's my 2 problems with Macs:
1. You buy them "as is". I dont like that. I like being able to build my own computer the way I want and be able to do anything with it. I don't like the Mac's designs. I dont like those semi-spheres with the monitors sticking out and I dont like the ones with everything built into the monitor either. The only thing I seem to like about Macs is the OS.
2. With Macs, you have to pay for everything which I simply cannot do. I like being able to get free software or pirated software cause I just cant afford stuff. With Macs, there ain't no free software like there is millions of it for Windows, and hardly anyone pirates mac stuff as far as I know.
Laukev7:
quote: 1. You buy them "as is". I dont like that. I like being able to build my own computer the way I want and be able to do anything with it.
--- End quote ---
Not all Macs are iMacs. Powermacs are like PC's and can be expanded at will. It is even possible to build a Mac from scratch.
http://www.macopz.com/buildamac/
In fact, it's actually easier to upgrade a Mac than to upgrade a PC. All you have to do is add a PCI or ZIF card. If you don't wish to buy a G4 from Apple or build your own, you can buy some old G3 tower (or even a 9500) and buy an upgrade from Sonnet.
quote: 2. With Macs, you have to pay for everything which I simply cannot do.
--- End quote ---
Not true. There is plenty of freeware and shareware for Mac, and Mac software can be found just as easily with any P2P program. In fact, all you have to do is type the word 'mac' in the search engine to get all the Mac-specific software. Plus, many CD's are hybrids, so you are likely to already possess software that will work on the Mac.
[ September 04, 2004: Message edited by: Laukev7 / BOB ]
bedouin:
quote:Originally posted by xeen:
But here's my 2 problems with Macs:
1. You buy them "as is". I dont like that. I like being able to build my own computer the way I want and be able to do anything with it. I don't like the Mac's designs. I dont like those semi-spheres with the monitors sticking out and I dont like the ones with everything built into the monitor either. The only thing I seem to like about Macs is the OS.
--- End quote ---
Well, my 2+ year old PowerMac has had the following internal changes made to it (I won't bother including external peripherals -- aside from he displays):
1) Stock Radeon 7000 32mb replaced with GeForce4 Ti 4600 128mb
2) Switched from CRT to LCD; CRT became secondary display
3) Purchased AlchemyTV DVR PCI card
4) Stock CD-RW replaced with Superdrive (DVD+-RW)
5) Added second internal hard drive
6) Added 1gb of RAM (still not maxxed out though)
And I'll probably upgrade the CPU soon as well. I suppose I may need to add FW800 or USB 2.0 in the future sometime as well. In that case I have plenty of empty PCI slots.
Even the iMacs are opening up. Nearly every part in the new iMac G5 is user replaceable. This may lead way for some interesting third-party upgrades.
Personally, I think the main reason I liked building my own machines from scratch as a PC user was because I knew every detail of the system; it gave me a sense of pride, kind of like putting together my own hot rod. There was perhaps a false reassurance that because you chose each part, and assembled it yourself, that the machine was somehow superior, even to machines with better specifications that were pre-assembled.
Well, all I can say is I've learned to trust Apple. The parts they select for their machines are generally quality, and not particularly different from what I would have chose if buying equivalent parts to build my own PC. The only difference is I know with relative certainty that this product will function in OS X, without quests for drivers or other troubleshooting during reinstalls or when experiencing difficulties. It's been said over and over: part of what makes OS X good is that Apple manufactures the machine and the OS.
Also keep in mind many Mac designs are engineered not only to look 'pretty,' but for a specific function. I always find it amusing that some PC people think Macs look ugly, then buy the most horrific looking PC case, complete with neon lights and other assorted nonsense.
quote:]2. With Macs, you have to pay for everything which I simply cannot do. I like being able to get free software or pirated software cause I just cant afford stuff. With Macs, there ain't no free software like there is millions of it for Windows, and hardly anyone pirates mac stuff as far as I know.
--- End quote ---
The Mac warez scene has a pretty rich history. Some might even consider Hotline an early precursor to modern P2P networks. I'm not going to give you direct information, but there are plenty of Mac torrents, IRC channels, etc.
However if you're really interested in 'free' software OS X lets you compile nearly any Linux app and run it under X11. Sometimes when I'm looking for a specific app the first thing I do is head over to Freshmeat and see what projects are available.
Then again, when you actually find an operating system that meets your needs exceptionally well, and hasn't been forced upon you, you might just find yourself purchasing software to support your community. Imagine that.
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