I have never owned a Mac, but I am going back to college for a two year degree, and one of the requirements is a Mac computer. Being a die-hard PC user, most of what it entails to use a Mac has sounded like Greek to me (although I'm learning a lot!).

Due to $$$ constraints, I have decided on this Mac Mini. What I want to do is use my PC monitor, mouse (has a tail - my tail-less mouse died), and keyboard (not a wireless). (Regarding the keyboard, and from what I understand, some keys will be different under the Mac OSx, as opposed to what I use them for on my PC.)

I plan on using a USB KVM switch to switch between the peripherals. Will this work? Will I need any adapters?

I am also looking at partitioning part of the Mac HD to have Windows installed on it...maybe...using Boot Camp. Or if anyone has suggestions for a better way than Boot Camp, please let me know.

A problem is a solution for my web design programs that currently run on my PC - the CSx suite of programs: Photoshop, Dreamweaver, Acrobat Pro, Illustrator, etc., etc. Is there a solution for this? I do NOT want to have to purchase this full suite of programs again for a Mac. Really expensive! I am thinking that the above solution of partitioning the Mac HD might or might not work for my classes, therefore I need to know of an alternative - if there is one.

Not sure I've conveyed the problems I am facing coherently, but any help would be greatly appreciated! If anything isn't clear, please let me know and I'll try to 'splain it better.

Thank y'all very much!

__________________
Jules, SunRise Virtual Solutions - WordPress Customization & XHTML/CSS Web Sites

Jules,

I don't have the answers to your questions but if you don't find them here you may want to contact Apple support directly. They always had great support in the past when I have had to call them.

And since you plan on purchasing a Mac Mini, perhaps the store you plan to purchase the computer from may also be able to answer your questions.

I just purchased a new computer at one of the big box stores, which also sold Macs and there were several other customers asking Mac-PC questions.

Congratulations on your decision to attend school!

Janine

__________________
WRITE FAB RFP PROPOSALS & land THE VA job. WinningRFP unveils soon! SignUp www.WinningRFP.com

I'll be purchasing online, since that was the best price. I'll give Apple a call - great idea that didn't even occur to me.

Yup, venturing back to college for my A of Arts degree. The college courses (diploma program, not degree) in web design back in the '90s and then self-taught since then to stay up-to-date...well, I'm ready for MORE. I'm so darned excited about this! I feel this is a great move to further my career as a VA and a VA that does web design (my favorite niche!); it will take my great skills to the next level and beyond.

Thanks a bunch, Janine!

__________________
Jules, SunRise Virtual Solutions - WordPress Customization & XHTML/CSS Web Sites

I could kiss you, Janine. I didn't call them, but I went to the Apple site and come to find out there is an educational discount for purchases of computers with qualifying colleges. My college was listed, so when I get ready to purchase I'm going to get my new lil mini Mac directly from Apple - plus I'm going to upgrade the processor, and the hard drive to 500GB. I also found tons of other great information that answered my questions as to how to run Windows along side the Max OS, if my keyboard would work, etc.

Anyone want to buy a couple IBM PC's? Just kidding!

__________________
Jules, SunRise Virtual Solutions - WordPress Customization & XHTML/CSS Web Sites

Very interesting, Jules - You are always up to something surprising! Going back to school, huh? In design, or what? Good on ya, woman! Exciting, indeed.

__________________
Mary H. Ruth/Virtual Writing & Communications
http://www.writingVA.com

Kisses and hugs are accepted!

We run Apple stuff here at home and my son uses Macs in school. I used to sell Macs in my former life and always felt that Apple had superior support whenever we/I had to call them. They do have a great website, you are indeed correct.

It sounds like a great plan that you have for the hardware and the schooling. I am very happy for you!

You must be so excited to start. I look forward to hearing about how this endeavor comes along. There's nothing like education! It gives you more choices!

Janine

__________________
WRITE FAB RFP PROPOSALS & land THE VA job. WinningRFP unveils soon! SignUp www.WinningRFP.com

Originally Posted by virtual writing

Very interesting, Jules - You are always up to something surprising! Going back to school, huh? In design, or what? Good on ya, woman! Exciting, indeed.

Hey Mary,

I have a pretty good skill set under my belt regarding web design, but wanted to take things to an even higher level, so I'll be going back to college for an Associate of Arts degree in Web Design and New Media starting June 21. Any higher degree was way out of my price range even with financial aid. Plus, I ain't no spring chicken , so time was a factor, too. Two years is good 'nuff.

I'll learn graphic design, print design, web design, and motion graphic design. How cool - I can add even more to my repertoire as a VA!

I was going to keep this under my hat, but dang! I just couldn't NOT share this with y'all!

Yup, I'm excited!! Thanks for the "good on ya," Mary!

__________________
Jules, SunRise Virtual Solutions - WordPress Customization & XHTML/CSS Web Sites

Hey Janine, I didn't know you used to sell Macs! If you don't mind a question - is a Mac Mini a good lil computer? Desktops and laptops were so darn expensive, so I had to go with the Mac Mini. They are so small, it's hard to believe there is so much "under the hood."

__________________
Jules, SunRise Virtual Solutions - WordPress Customization & XHTML/CSS Web Sites

Jules,
I've been busy this past few months and just put "VAF" back into my schedule only to find that you will be going back to college. How exciting!!

I know that our local university has a computer store in it and when I have taken classes have access to hardware and software at incredibly reduced prices. This may be an option for you. I have a HP Netbook which I use when we travel and find it has everything I need to keep my business going even on vacation.

We'll want occasional updates, and wish you all the best on your new adventure.

Cheers!!

__________________
Bernice
Energy Virtual Assistant