John-

I certainly agree that Macs are viewed as graphics-oriented rather than
number-crunching machines, but I have to classify that as a huge
misconception. They're popular with those of us who run mostly graphics
programs because the OS as a whole is supremely intuitive and easy to use,
organize and customize (although I haven't heard the best things about
Unix-based OSX). The fact remains, however, that technology like the G4
processor and the overall architecture of the Mac is at the very least equal
to ANY Pentium system currently on the market (ask the guys at NASA), and
you have the added assurance they weren't assembled by a teenager in the
back of your local bargain computer outlet. I guess what I'm getting at is
that software incompatibility is a function of the software industry rather
than the actual system capability. Plus, with software like Virtual PC and
dual-platform hardware, I can run any PC software I need to. Our agency is
divided between Macs in the creative sector and PCs in account services, and
we always end up testing disks that can't be read by the PCs, burning
dual-platform CD-ROMs, and shuffling data when the NT server goes down (on a
regular basis).
Before I get carried away here, please realize that this is entirely MHO,
and one formed by my experiences working with both platforms extensively. I
sure don't want to start one of those tech-geek arguments I hate listening
to (mostly when the IT guys are trying to diagnose the NT systems;))...
Computers can be a personal thing, just like our vans. But dammit, it'll be
a cold day down south before I join the ranks of all you Stepford PC users!
*grinning* I'm enjoying this thread, though!

JJ

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