Switching from PC to MAC?

[dmurray407]

I've always been a loyal PC user-I've had HP PC's since 2000. In the next couple of years, I will need a new computer, and with all the changes going on with HP, I'm thinking of switching to a MAC. I'm concerned because when I've purchased digital supplies, I've always discarded the little MAC extras that come with the files. I never figured I would need them, but now I'm worried that I won't be able to use my files on a MAC without them? Is this true? What are those extras for, anyway?

Is there anything else I need to consider before making the switch?

Thanks!
Deb

[Wendy]

Hi Deb ...

Its not often that there are separate Windows & Mac files along with Digital Supplies ... about the only time there is something different is when its its a plugin filter.

All the things like Layer Styles, Actions, Brushes etc are usable in both as are all the png files, jpg etc.

Can you think of any specific things that you have discarded ... ??

Wendy

[dmurray407]

Thanks for the speedy reply, Wendy! Here's an example-actually, I've always assumed that these were mac specific things, maybe not . . . OK, I can't paste an image here, but I'll try to explain it better.

When I download something from a store (for example, a digital kit) and unzip the file, there is often a little file labeled something like MACOSX . I've always assumed that these were MAC related items and usually delete them to save space. Maybe they have some other purpose? Hmmmm . . .

[canay]

One of the reasons I haven't switched to a MAC is because of the windows programs I have purchased. I haven't wanted to spend extra $$ on Mac versions. But my kids keep telling me it is time to switch!!

[carlalee]

Hi There! I know exactly which files you're talking about & no you don't need them. I believe they start with an underscore _ in front of the name or something like that. They are sometimes included in things where the designer uses a Mac. I used Windows up until last August when I made the switch and all of my supplies worked fine. If you use Adobe products and have the most current versions, you can call them and for the cost of postage, they will swap versions for you. Some plugins may not be transferable. Personally now that I've switched I'll never go back! :-)
-c-

[dmurray407]

Is there much of a learning curve switching from PC to MAC?

[Jan]

Honestly, it depends upon how quickly you catch on... There is definitely a learning curve, to be sure. But most people believe it's worth it... just ask any Mac user... :)

[dmurray407]

:) I've never heard anyone say that they were sorry they switched . . .

Though, Jan, I notice you are a Windows 7 user-why do you stay with Windows?

[Wendy]

Hi Deb ...

Those little files are just the files that tell bridge how the items were sorted ... they are usually hidden but sometimes you can see them :)

As far as a learning curve well yes there is but I actually think that its easier using a Mac than using a Windows computer ... Macs tend to be a bit more intuitive.

Wendy

[Wendy]

Hi Canay ...

Some software companies .. Adobe for one ... if you switch to a Mac from Windows and you have the latest version of their software will let you have a cross platform disk for a small fee (last time I heard it was about $6)

So if you have PSE9 and had downloaded the Windows version from Adobe you would be able to get the Mac version from them :)

Wendy

[Jan]

Hi Deb,
Well, when it comes to creating tutorials for Digital Scrapper, most people are Windows users, so it helps to produce them in that format. If I could afford a second computer, it would be a Mac, trust me... :)

[dmurray407]

Thanks, Jan :) It will probably be a year or so before I can afford one, too . . .and by then my PC will be more than ready to retire! It's actually more than just a new computer-if I get another PC with Windows 7, my printer, scanner and probably Wacom will need to be replaced as well-I'm not sure if they would be compatible with the latest version of MAC. Something else to check into . . . .

[Wendy]

Hi Deb

Your printer and scanner should work just fine with a Mac ... as long as the drivers are updated to the latest ones.

... and tablets also work on both Mac & Windows so its likely that will be OK too :)

Wendy

[dmrdm]

Hi Deb,
. If I could afford a second computer, it would be a Mac, trust me... :)

You know, I've never even had a desire to switch. Have had PC's since the 80's...never had a problem. Love my babies. But I don't buy them off of the shelf. Always get what fits my needs at the time. Always have been in a business environment where they use PC's, but I had my PC before they had them at work even. Our 2nd computer, was my big heavy, big laptop, Radio Shack, no less...that I would drag to work to do a spreadsheet because I didn't want to do it by hand...and work didn't have smart terminals then. LOL.

Running CS5 on my Window 7, 64 bit has been pure HEAVEN!!!! Love it, love it, love it!:):):) Life is good!

The MAC vs PC debate will never end, so enjoy your computer...whichever one you have or buy~

[michelepixels]

I switched from PC to Mac in May, after nearly two decades with PCs. It wasn't hard at all. It only took me about a week to feel comfortable with it and now when I help my kids on their PC, it feels strange.

[dmurray407]

Thanks for all the great input!!!

[Thejage]

Actually, when I bought PSE9 the case contained both the pc and mac CDs. I bought a mac at the beginning of the year and have been using both it and my pc. As of October 1st, I am using my mac for everything but banking (will switch the first of 2012) and word processing. I am going to get Page when I get a new macbook. I LOVE not having to worry about crashes and viruses as I did constantly on my pc. I still watch for them but so far I feel much more secure with the mac. AND the online and phone assistance is TOPS!!

[dmurray407]

Thanks, Janet-I'm seriously considering switching. A new computer is in the budget for next year :)

[Wendy]

If you have an Apple Shop nearby then its worth a trip ... they are happy to let you play with the Macs and will give you help and advice if you need it.

They do help and they don't tend to push you you buy :)

Wendy

[Daisy]

I still don't understand - what exactly is the difference between a PC and a Mac? Like Doris, I love my PC and can't see why anyone would want to change. It works just fine for me and I have no problems, so what is it that people love better in a Mac???

[Wendy]

Hi Bett ..

Macs tend to be more intuitive than Windows computers, they come with their own suite of programs (iLife) and a big advantage is that they don't have Viruses.

... its difficult to sum it up in a few words but if you live anywhere near an Apple shop then just pop in and take a look.

I have never yet come across anyone who switched and regretted it :)

Wendy