Considering going back to Apple, but need some help

apple_apple_where_are_you

Hello,



I'm new to the forums and a little new to forums in general. I tend to be a littly wordy, so I will apolagize in advance for this. If it would be easier to most several smaller posts, I will be more than happy to do so



My story/situation



So here it goes. I'm in need of a new laptop (possibly desktop more than like laptop) My current computer is about three years old. While it does run OK still, it is starting to do some weird things, so I want to be ready to go before it is too late. I got my first Apple computer when I was 4 or 5 years old, really don't remember much about that. Then I used PCs up until highschool where I used a mac for about 5 years. I loved it and really enjoyed most of what it had to offer. Even though it has been a few years since I last used a mac, I miss them and would like to go back. But, for the past 5 years or so I have been mostly using PCs (both HP and Compaq). Before I take the dive back to Apple, I have some questions. So here they go:





Not sure whether to go MacBook or MacBook Pro:

I'm thinking that the MacBook may not be as much of a computer as I would like, but that the Pro is a little more than I need. I would much rather have more than I need, than to outgrow the other one in a few months. I mostly do Word Processing and Internet Browsing. I also do some work with Photoshop Elements. One of the main reasons I would like to go back to Apple is because of everything you can do with it, i.e. I have a new puppy and would love to be able to make iMovies, etc. So I'm trying to decide which is better.





Are the cases really fragile?

One of the main reasons I don't like the MacBook is the case looks very similar to the iPod. I like my tech to be in perfect shape, so something that scratches easily doesn't appeal to me. This is one of the main reasons I have avoided buying an iPod and am waiting for that to improve. Is the MacBook Pros case any better, or does it also scratch? I know there are some plastic cases available, but I like things to be out of cases if I can.





The compatibility issues?

When I was younger all I ever heard about was compatibility issues with Macs. But, I believe this has changed for the most part. Is this the case or is this still a problem. I plan to keep my PC laptop and will also have some desktops, but would like to be able to do most of my work on the mac. For example, I have HP Photosmart 3210 printer, will I have problems with something like this or with my Nikon D70 camera?





Getting connected

I don't really remember trying to get my Mac connected to the internet, but I do remember having some problems with it. Since my network has all PCs and uses a Linksys router, will I have problems getting online? I currently use my wireless network for my laptop, but also have an Ethernet available for it if I need it. I keep reading about the Apple Airport (?) what is that?







Will it work as a desktop replacement?

I use my laptop all day and leave it on around 16 hours a day. Is the MacBook designed for this, or is that too much for it? I've read a lot about the Macs getting really hot, is this still an issue? From what I have read the MacBook had more problems, is this also a problem with the pro?





Glossy vs. Matte?

I work with a large picture window behind me. So, I have always wanted to get a glossy screen, but have always been concerned about viewing problems and I don't know of anyone with this screen to see how it would work. Is this more than likely going to be a problem? I know when I looked today the MacBook Pro does offer a matte screen, does the regular MacBook?





Are there any rumors in the works?

I know Apple is good a bringing new products right after everyone buys something. Are there any rumors for a newer better laptop from them?





Port issues?

I am a big fan of CNET and while they can be a little tough with their ratings, I was wanting to see if the port are a problem. According to them it is missing some ports, etc. Is this the case, or is this something easily resolved?





More things to buy and software?

I think the only software that comes with the laptop is iMovie. Are there any other really neat programs I should look into? What other things are important to buy that I may be missing?





Will I have problems fixing it?

Since there are still more PC users out there (I think) I seem to be able to find a lot of solutions online. Is a Mac harder to fix (for a novice user) Again, I can't remember much about my Mac. I know we went through several and had some problems, but after about the 4th one I think they did OK. Also, with the warranty, I have a friend that owns a repair shop and works with Phillips for extended warranties. I get all of my computer warranties through him and my family has used him for years. Would someone like this be able to fix a Mac or are your pretty much stuck with AppleCare?



Is it worth the price?

My comp teacher in college had either a MacBook Pro or PowerBook, I can't remember. He loved it and said it was worth the price. Do you think it is as well? Considering both the MacBook and MacBook Pro, which one is more worth the cost. I think the Pro looks awsome and definitely has a lot on it. At first I was leaning against it when I seen they started at $2000, but the more I looked into, the more I seen it offered. I was ready to sign the deal, but then I realized that wasn't the 17 inch screen, so it wasn't quite the bargain I thought. I have a 15.4" now and it seems to be really good in size, but would like the bigger screen. But, I don't think I want to go quite that high. I'm also wondering if I should go with a Comparable PC that would likely get me a lot more, spec wise.





Life span

Do Apple have a good life span. Like I said, my PC is about 3 years old and is still working quite well. I have a 7 year old laptop that is still pretty good as well. I tend to go through desktops a lot faster. My current (main) laptop was around $1500 but that included a case, the extended warranty and a few other little things. So, it wasn't quite as bad as the Pro in price. I'm hoping that Apples last a lot longer so that they make up for the higher price in the beginning.





Buying the laptop

I looked at Apples website and there are only 2 apples stores in my state. Since they are located in areas that I don't get to but once every few years, because of distance, I would like to be able to buy it somewhere else. I definitely want to see one before I buy it, and there are some resellers closer to me that I could look at them. Is buying from a reseller a good idea, or are there potential problems doing this? I am assuming since Apple has them on their site they are good stores to deal with. I'm also considering Amazon, they seem to have pretty good prices. Is there a better option to purchase from?







Conclusion

As you can see I am totally lost right now. I am so sorry for how many questions I have (hopefully this is all of them). I just want to be sure to do the right thing and I'm a little concerned with the purchase, considering prices and things. I like that with places like Sams Club they have a great return policy in case it wouldn't work as I had hoped. But I don't think there are any options like that for Apple, so I want to be sure to do the right thing the first time.



Thanks so much for your help. If you have any other info, sources, etc. that I should look into that would be great. If I need to post a few smaller posts just let me know and I will be happy to do. Any questions you can answer would be great.





Thanks so much for all your help

addabox

In order of your questions:



1) MacBook should be fine for your needs. Be aware that Adobe stuff is currently running in Rosetta, Apple's way of easing the transition to Intel hardware. When Adobe releases the Intel native versions of their stuff for Mac (first half of this year), Elements will run quite a bit faster.

Which means that:



2) You can afford to get the top of the line black MacBook, which is much more resistant to showing scratches than the white ones. Also, it is the bomb.



3) Any modern printer or scanner or digital camera or pretty much anything will work just fine with the Mac.



4) Your router will work fine with the Mac, although you might have to hunt around a little for info if you get stuck-- Linksys isn't very forthcoming on Mac info. Rest assure, however, that the Mac uses all the same internet protocols as your PC.



5) The current iteration of the MacBook runs reasonably cool, considering it contains a high power dual core chip. The reports of MacBooks running too hot were true, that issue has been resolved.



6) Really a matte of preference. Try to get to somewhere where you can compare. CompUSA and some Best Buys carry macs, if there isn't an Apple Store in your neck of the woods.



7) There is always an upgrade coming, Apple will likely bump speeds as the chips become available from Intel. I don't think anyone expects a major reworking of the MacBook design this year, it's still pretty new.



8 Not sure what CNET is alluding to. MacBooks and MacBooks pros have all the usual compliment of ports. They might have felt that there should more USB ports, or something.



9) Get a copy of Office for Mac if you want to move that sort of stuff between the Mac and your PC. Office is also running in Rosetta, so expect an update soon for the Mac Intel architecture. Macs give you a lot of software out of the box, so play around for a while till you see else you need. You might not need anything.



10) See if there is an Apple store near where you live, since that is a great resource if it needs looking at. There might be an independent Mac shop around, as well. You can always send it in to Apple for servicing, if need be.



11) Apple computers are priced on par with manufacturers like Dell and HP. The idea that they are overpriced, nowadays, is largely because Apple doesn't make any low end machines. So: while you can get a laptop for less from Dell, you can't get a laptop specced identically to the MacBook for less.



12) Macs consistently rank number one in customer satisfaction and infrequency of repair when Consumer Reports does their ranking. If an Apple machine is going to have trouble, it's usually the first version of a new model. The MacBook had its teething problems, but now that they've moved onto Rev B all seems to be well.



13) Buying from a reseller shouldn't be a problem, assuming it's a reputable outfit. A lot of people buy directly from the Apple online store. Sometimes Amazon offers modest discounts, but typically Apple prices are pretty set. If you are a student you can get the educational discount at the online Apple store.

machope theworld

Also, on your heat issue, on Apple.com, it says



"The bottom surface and some areas between the keyboard and LCD hinge of your Apple notebook computer can become hot after extended periods of use. This is normal operating behavior...When using your portable computer, place it on a hard surface, such as a desktop or a tray. A hard surface allows air to flow under the computer to dissipate heat. Placing it on a soft surface such as a towel or pillow (or lap) is not recommended because it does not allow air to flow under the computer."



So buying a Macbook/Macbook Pro would work much better as a desktop replacement than in your lap, though you could use it on the go.



I think you should go with glossy, no matter what. If there's a lighting problem, just adjust the position a bit. I have a glossy screen on my Sony Vaio and Toshiba Satellite, and they're both fine.



The Macbook should be more than enough for what you're going to do. I would probably max out the RAM, just to make sure it's more future-proof. And go for the 2Ghz Macbooks, their noticeably (for me anyways) faster than the 1.83Ghz.



For rumors, Apple is supposedly going to use the Santa Rosa chipset, which means faster boot times. That's supposed to come out sometime in the 2nd quarter of this year. Also, they might use LED backlights or OLED screens, which save battery, but if you can't wait, I think the Macbook is a really good buy right now.



The cases aren't fragile, you could probably drop them, and they'd be fine. And scratches will show if you get the white Macbook. Like addabox said, going with the Blackbook would hide the scratches, but smudges and fingerprints stand out more. And since the Macbook Pro is made out of aluminium, it won't scratch (as easily), and the fingerprints/smudges don't show as much. It's your choice...



I can't say anything for the Macbooks (obviously), but the iBooks and Powerbooks hold up really well. My frineds have iBooks and Powerbooks that they've had for 5-6 years, and still going strong.



As for where you can look at the Macbooks, you can go to Circuit City and Best Buy, but you have to check if your store carries them, because they are still trial programs.



You couldn't find much better prices for what you get on Apples. Sticking with a Macbook would be good, if not great. Most people say that Apple's are "outrageously" expensive, but that's because they don't compare them to computers with the same specs. Usually, you'll only pay less that a hundred dollars if you were buying a similar computer vs. a Macbook/Pro







I am also a reader of CNet, but I don't usually agree with the ratings they give. i.e. when they reviewed the C2D Macbook Pro, they gave it a 7.3 (7.4?), but the only reason they gave for the rating was because of the lack of a card reader and the 90-day phone support. ( i read the entire review) The Macbook faired better in their review, though.





I hope this helps you decide



I'm also a recent Mac convert, and I was confused in the beginning. It's a whole new world over here.

machope theworld

Oh, and btw.



Welcome to the Forums!

apple_apple_where_are_you

WOW!!!!



All I can say is Thank You!!!! I have never been to a forum that has been this helpful. I never thought anyone would actually answer all my questions. So thank you, so very much, your help is really appreciated.



Also, thank you for the welcome. You answers have really helped me a lot. I, of course, did come up with a few more after reading your responses.



I think I am going to look a little more into the MacBook. I have been very naughty and started getting more and more into the Pro the more I looked at it. Now, I am trying to talk myself into reasons that I would need it and have to get back into reality. One thing I am considering is that I hope to go into something like Graphic Design, or something along that lines, so the pro may come in handy. But I think the regular MacBook is going to be best for me. It's funny that black doesn't show scratches as well, for some reason I thought it would show them more. I'm going to look a little more into the comparison to see what I think will work the best.



I'm considering, still, my options. So, the way I think of it, a fully loaded Macbook isn't going to run much less than Pro. I also found that Apple has a refurbished MacBook Pro for $1999 Now, I know in the past that Tech TV (oh how I miss them) PC World Mag, etc. has said that buying refurbished is a good way to save a little money (a lot in this case) but I have always been a little worried about going this route. Has anyone gone with a refurb and had good luck. I'm just concerned of what problems I might run into. Also, do they still come with the box and everything?





I was thinking that my MS professional had a CD for both PC and Mac, but apparently it doesn't. So, will I need to buy a new version of this, or does it work on Macs now? I know I have some old software left from my Mac, don't know what I have, or if it still works, but it might be something. I think it was mostly school related.



When you say that Adobe still runs on Rosetta but will work on intel later this year. Will this be fixed with a software update or how does that work?



I'm still not quite sure about Airport, but I will try to look that up on my own.







Good to hear about compatibility issues and that it isn't running hot anymore. And, it is great to hear that most of the early problems (maybe all) have been fixed. I've checked glossy screens, at like Staples and such, but it is kind of hard to tell for my situation. When I am in the store I can see all the lights in the store and it is almost like a mirror, which I think would be annoying. Unfortunately, I don't really have much option for where to move the laptop to avoid the window. I would love the glossy screen, but would hate to get it and find out it is a big problem. I think it is a good time for me to buy, I don't really need a faster speed, but I suppose if I wait it might come down some in price. I wish there were more options for servicing, since I use my laptop mostly for work I don't know how long I could go with out it (I always do in home service)



I've always heard Macs were overpriced, but when I actually looked at the specs, I couldn't really understand why that is being said. Plus, the quality, I feel, of the parts is much better than something like a Dell. I've never personally used one, but I feel that Apple is much higher quality than most manufacturers. Which, is great because I want something that will last a good long time.



I love CNET and everything, I find that they really have a good bit of information and usually give just about all the info you could need. But, I find it hard to follow their rating system, it seems hard to me. I remember when I was looking at cameras it drove me crazy because of the rating system.





Now, MacHope theWorld, you say you are a recent convert to Apple, how do you like it so far? Do you think you will go back to PCs or continue to buy them (I believe there are still some reasons to buy them, more reasons for some than others) Do you have any tips, such as the major problems you have ran into, etc.





Thanks again, you guys rock!

galley

I bought a refurbished MacBook for my daughter in Nov. The accessories were brand new, and the MacBook was in excellent condition. We got lucky and got one with an upgraded hard drive and RAM at no extra charge.

formerlurker

RE Microsoft Office - make sure to look for the Student & Teacher Edition, which is half the price. Unlike an Apple education purchase, you don't have to "prove" your eligibility.

addabox

Just a few more observations:



OS X (and particularly Rosetta) really like RAM. So remember when you're maxing out a MacBook, it means you're getting more RAM (3GB) than the entry level MBP, which may do more for you than the MBP's better video card. Of course, if you can afford it, by all means go for the MBP with maxed out RAM.



The black MacBook has a matte finish, which is one of the reasons it doesn't show scratches.



The modern Mac has a couple of ways to run PC software: the included Boot Camp, which allows you to boot into Windows (you have to install your own copy of windows) outright.



Then there is Parallels, an amazing piece of software that lets you run Windows simultaneously within the Mac OS. It's $80 and can be downloaded here. Again, you have to provide your own copy of Windows.



This alone has induced many people to switch, since they get a computer that does more, not less, than their PC alone.



Macs are definitely a solid value, especially the laptops. Talk of "overpriced Macs" is just a hangover from earlier days.

neyoung

I've been wanting to make the switch to Apple for a while. I just purchased a MacBook Pro and waiting for it to arrive. I'm confidant that either the macbook or macbook pro will fit your needs. I just went with the pro for the bigger screen. Good luck

sunilraman

Quote:

Originally Posted by Apple_Apple_Where_Are_You


I'm new to the forums and a little new to forums in general. I tend to be a littly wordy, so I will apolagize in advance for this. If it would be easier to most several smaller posts, I will be more than happy to do so

One big post is alright, we do have time sometimes to read it all in one go...

Quote:

Originally Posted by Apple_Apple_Where_Are_You


Are the cases really fragile?

One of the main reasons I don't like the MacBook is the case looks very similar to the iPod. I like my tech to be in perfect shape, so something that scratches easily doesn't appeal to me. This is one of the main reasons I have avoided buying an iPod and am waiting for that to improve. Is the MacBook Pros case any better, or does it also scratch? I know there are some plastic cases available, but I like things to be out of cases if I can.

You have to play around with the demo model MacBooks, they have a "texture", that's the easiest way to describe it. It is kinda robust, but you'll need to see a demo model to "understand".

Quote:

Originally Posted by Apple_Apple_Where_Are_You


Getting connected

I don't really remember trying to get my Mac connected to the internet, but I do remember having some problems with it. Since my network has all PCs and uses a Linksys router, will I have problems getting online? I currently use my wireless network for my laptop, but also have an Ethernet available for it if I need it. I keep reading about the Apple Airport (?) what is that?

The Airport Extreme is like a Linksys base station router. Airport Extreme supports 802.11b, g, and draft-N standards. The MacBook is *amazing* and getting connected wherever you go. Seriously. Signal reception of wi-fi is awesome.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Apple_Apple_Where_Are_You


Will it work as a desktop replacement?

I use my laptop all day and leave it on around 16 hours a day. Is the MacBook designed for this, or is that too much for it? I've read a lot about the Macs getting really hot, is this still an issue? From what I have read the MacBook had more problems, is this also a problem with the pro?

Make sure you get the latest model (Core2Duo). A lot of heat issues solved. To test though, you need to do the "yes>/dev/null" trick to load both cores to 100% and see how loud the fan is. Most of the time, MacBook Core2Duo should run reasonably cool and silent. It *will* work as a desktop replacement, check the screen size and see if you need a 2nd LCD screen if you are running in full-desktop "mode" at your desk.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Apple_Apple_Where_Are_You


Glossy vs. Matte?

I work with a large picture window behind me. So, I have always wanted to get a glossy screen, but have always been concerned about viewing problems and I don't know of anyone with this screen to see how it would work. Is this more than likely going to be a problem? I know when I looked today the MacBook Pro does offer a matte screen, does the regular MacBook?

At first I was very anti-glossy. But now, I love it. Reflection and glare is tolerable, if you use it a lot outdoors though, in the shade it is okay.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Apple_Apple_Where_Are_You


Port issues?

I am a big fan of CNET and while they can be a little tough with their ratings, I was wanting to see if the port are a problem. According to them it is missing some ports, etc. Is this the case, or is this something easily resolved?

Meh. Show me how many PC laptops have FireWire400 -- very useful for your digital camera

Quote:

Originally Posted by Apple_Apple_Where_Are_You


More things to buy and software?

I think the only software that comes with the laptop is iMovie. Are there any other really neat programs I should look into? What other things are important to buy that I may be missing?

What it comes with is cool and will keep you occupied long enough. Other things to consider are MSOffice2004 for Mac (if you need it), iWork '06 from Apple (if you need it), and this beauty called Parallels.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Apple_Apple_Where_Are_You


Is it worth the price?

Totally.



..................

Good luck

..................

sunilraman

Quote:

Originally Posted by Apple_Apple_Where_Are_You


For example, I have HP Photosmart 3210 printer...

It should be decently supported:

http://h10025.www1.hp.com/ewfrf/wc/s...lang=en&os=219



» \tHP All-in-One printing-only web installer for Mac OS X v10.2.8, v10.3 and v10.4



» \tSoftware for HP Photosmart 3200 Series - Mac OS X v10.3 and v10.4 (Universal)

\t \t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t \t

» \tSoftware for HP Photosmart 3200 Series - Mac OS X v10.2.8

\t

» \tHP Image Zone software for Mac OS X v 10.2.8 and later

apple_apple_where_are_you

Well, I think I will definitely go with an Apple. I think that choice has been made. Now I just need to decide which route to go.



So now it is just deciding between MacBook or MacBook Pro and if I want to go with a refurbished one or not. I think if I can handle taking the risk of a refurbished one, I would go with the MacBook Pro since it is such a great deal.



But thanks again for all your help!

addabox

Quote:

Originally Posted by Apple_Apple_Where_Are_You


Well, I think I will definitely go with an Apple. I think that choice has been made. Now I just need to decide which route to go.



So now it is just deciding between MacBook or MacBook Pro and if I want to go with a refurbished one or not. I think if I can handle taking the risk of a refurbished one, I would go with the MacBook Pro since it is such a great deal.



But thanks again for all your help!

Again, just make sure your getting the latest model with the core 2 duo chip (commonly referred to as the MPBC2D). Intel got the heat down, which went a long way toward solving some of the original MBP's cooling problems. Plus, Apple redesigned the cooling intake ports and tweaked the fan control.

apple_apple_where_are_you

This is the link: http://store.apple.com/1-800-MY-APPL....0.1.5.1.0.5.0



I can't tell which model it is. It has dual core and everything, I think it is the new one, but I'm not certain.



I asked some other people about going with a refurbished one. They said that it is basically like buying a used car, you may get lucky or you may get a lemon and that it can have scratches and everything. Is this the case?

galley

The Core 2 Duos have 64-bit support and 802.11n chipsets; the older models do not.

apple_apple_where_are_you

Yep, I see that now. It is the dual core processor. I forgot how much that threw me off during my last PC purchase.



I guess I will stay away from the refurbished ones.



Now I'm trying to decide on screens. Since my 15.4 screen seems to work fine with me, I think that is what I want to stick with. But then I'm trying to decide if I should keep it configured as is, or if I should upgrade. But then if I upgrade I might as well go with the $2500 one because there is more savings. But then, if I go with the $2500 one, I might as well get the bigger screen since there is more savings there. Just thought I would let you into my head for a little bit

apple_apple_where_are_you

I've been looking around a little more and have some more questions



Virus'

Obviously, PCs are more vulnerable to virus' and the like. So, if you use boot camp or parallel to run Windows, isn't that going to cause the same type problems? If I use XP, Vista, etc. will I have to have antivirus in order to protect the computer?





Using Adobe

Since Adobe isn't compatible yet with the intel chip, do I have to purchase windows OS before I can use Photoshop Elements or PDFs? I don't have a copy and didn't want to purchase one until a little later.





Leopard

When the OS Leopard comes out, will that be something that you have to purchase? Will it work like an upgrade for Windows?





Apple Airport

Do I need airport in order to work wirelessly with my MB or MBP? I am assuming you don't need to have it or else you wouldn't be able to use wireless at a coffee shop, for example, but I wasn't quite sure what that was for.





Grainy screens

Finally, I read some reviews on Amazon and there are a few complaints that the MBP, especially the 15 inch that I am leaning towards, has a really grainy screen. The main reason I want the MBP is because of the anti-glare screen. But I hate to spend this type of money to get sub-par quality screen.





Thanks, sorry again for all the questions.

backtomac

Quote:

Originally Posted by Apple_Apple_Where_Are_You


I've been looking around a little more and have some more questions



Virus'

Obviously, PCs are more vulnerable to virus' and the like. So, if you use boot camp or parallel to run Windows, isn't that going to cause the same type problems? If I use XP, Vista, etc. will I have to have antivirus in order to protect the computer?





Using Adobe

Since Adobe isn't compatible yet with the intel chip, do I have to purchase windows OS before I can use Photoshop Elements or PDFs? I don't have a copy and didn't want to purchase one until a little later.





Leopard

When the OS Leopard comes out, will that be something that you have to purchase? Will it work like an upgrade for Windows?





Apple Airport

Do I need airport in order to work wirelessly with my MB or MBP? I am assuming you don't need to have it or else you wouldn't be able to use wireless at a coffee shop, for example, but I wasn't quite sure what that was for.





Grainy screens

Finally, I read some reviews on Amazon and there are a few complaints that the MBP, especially the 15 inch that I am leaning towards, has a really grainy screen. The main reason I want the MBP is because of the anti-glare screen. But I hate to spend this type of money to get sub-par quality screen.





Thanks, sorry again for all the questions.

1) Viruses: They are a problem for windows even on a Mac either in parrallels or boot camp. You'll need anti virus protection for your windows 'boot' whichever way you choose. I'm not aware of any virus affecting the Mac OSX even if acquired while using parrallels or boot camp.



2) Abobe runs just fine on Macs. Even though they run in Rosetta, an emulation program, they work fine. They'll be much faster when they are 'universal'.



3) Airport is standard. All you need is a wifi signal and perhaps a password.



4) MBP screen. I have a MBP with the matte screen and I think it is excellent. It doesn't seem grainy to me but perhaps others are more discriminating than me. It is better than the screens an my compaqs I have in my office. The only way you'll know if you like it to go and see one for yourself.

gregmightdothat

Quote:

Originally Posted by Apple_Apple_Where_Are_You


I've been looking around a little more and have some more questions



Virus'

Obviously, PCs are more vulnerable to virus' and the like. So, if you use boot camp or parallel to run Windows, isn't that going to cause the same type problems? If I use XP, Vista, etc. will I have to have antivirus in order to protect the computer?

Yes. They won't infect the Mac side, but Windows is Windows is Windows is vulnerable to just about every virus out there.



[/quote]

Using Adobe

Since Adobe isn't compatible yet with the intel chip, do I have to purchase windows OS before I can use Photoshop Elements or PDFs? I don't have a copy and didn't want to purchase one until a little later.

[/quote]



Adobe, and Microsoft's PowerPC products are emulated on Intel chips. They run fine, but slower and they take up way more RAM than they should. For PDFs, you'll just use Preview because Adobe Reader is pretty much the worst program ever made. Photoshop CS3 is coming out soon as a Universal Binary, I don't know when

Quote:

Leopard

When the OS Leopard comes out, will that be something that you have to purchase? Will it work like an upgrade for Windows?

It'll cost $129. You'll get a disc, you pop it in, and click Install.

Quote:

Apple Airport

Do I need airport in order to work wirelessly with my MB or MBP? I am assuming you don't need to have it or else you wouldn't be able to use wireless at a coffee shop, for example, but I wasn't quite sure what that was for.

There's two parts?there's an Airport card in your computer, and then an Airport base station. I think the Airport card comes in all laptops now. If you want wireless at home, you'll have to get some sort of 802.11 base station, whether from Apple or not, that you'll have to connect to your cable/DSL modem.



I just checked prices on Newegg a few days ago, and for the first time, Apple's Airport Extreme is actually competitive price-wise versus other 802.11n base stations, so I would definitely get that: it's so much easier to set up, and Airtunes is great.

Quote:

Grainy screens

Finally, I read some reviews on Amazon and there are a few complaints that the MBP, especially the 15 inch that I am leaning towards, has a really grainy screen. The main reason I want the MBP is because of the anti-glare screen. But I hate to spend this type of money to get sub-par quality screen.

All LCDs are slightly grainy. I haven't read that guys review so I don't know if it was his first LCD screen, but it's not something that's worse on a MBP versus any other LCD in the world.

flounder

If you're not in a big rush to buy, it might be prudent to wait until Leopard is released, so you get the OS upgrade goodness without plunking down another $130. It's set to be released in "spring" there is no official release date yet, but probably in the March-May timeframe. Possibly June, but I'd be very surprised if it came out any later than that.

addabox

Just as a quick aside, Apple has been shipping laptops with draft 802.11n cards, even though they haven't said anything about it.



Not sure what the state of n base stations is (well, there is the new Airport Extreme, of course), but you should consider getting one, since there's no point in throttling your potential wireless speeds.



Apparently the n functionality will be unlocked with a $5 (!) downloadable key. Yes, weird, Apple has their excuses, it's being discussed elsewhere.