Running Mac on the PC?

[Beasty Kato]

Hey, guys I'm a PC user but am definately thinking about switching to Mac especially since I got my new job. I was just wondering if there is an emulation program to run the Mac O/S on my PC, preferably free? I want it not only to know if I'd really like to switch but also just to be prepared for my upcoming job since I'll be doing technical support for Apple desktops and Ipods.

And just on the side since I'll probably be getting a Mac (most likely a powerbook) sometime soon is it worth it to buy the current machines, or should I just wait for them to bring the Intel processors to their line-up?

[Edit] Didn't realize I posted this in the Hardware section , mods please move it if neccesary

 

[matticus008]

Hey, guys I'm a PC user but am definately thinking about switching to Mac especially since I got my new job. I was just wondering if there is an emulation program to run the Mac O/S on my PC, preferably free? I want it not only to know if I'd really like to switch but also just to be prepared for my upcoming job since I'll be doing technical support for Apple desktops and Ipods.

And just on the side since I'll probably be getting a Mac (most likely a powerbook) sometime soon is it worth it to buy the current machines, or should I just wait for them to bring the Intel processors to their line-up?

[Edit] Didn't realize I posted this in the Hardware section , mods please move it if neccesary

If you're going to be required to provide support for Macs and you don't have any experience, they'll obviously have to train you. You should have access that way. There are ways to emulate PowerPC on PCs to run OS X, but why spend $130 on OS X when it's going to run at 1/40th the speed of a real computer? Get a second-hand Mac or just buy that PowerBook you're planning. The emulated version isn't going to be fast enough for you to interact with it effectively.

 

[Beasty Kato]

Yes, they are training me. I have to go through a 4 week training program with Apple, but I just figured it'd be a good idea to get familiar with it before I started.

 

[matticus008]

Yes, they are training me. I have to go through a 4 week training program with Apple, but I just figured it'd be a good idea to get familiar with it before I started.

The best way to do that is to read how-to guides and so on, many of which are available on Apple's website. It's just sort of silly to spend $130 more than you would ordinarily, you know? If/when you get a Mac of your own, that copy of Tiger would be completely unnecessary.

Another option is to browse the forums here, especially this one. The causes and solutions for most problems you'll face are located right here.

(It's a violation of the EULA to install OS X on anything other than a Macintosh computer, as well.)

 

[mad jew]

You'll struggle to learn anything from an emulator because of the ridiculously slow speeds.

For a good comparison site between OSX and XP, check this out. It's really good for learning about some of the idiosyncrasies between the two platforms.

 

[iEdd]

As for waiting with buying a powerbook, on the 19th there should be new PPC models. And the intels will be out Q3 next year I imagine.
Google around for PearPC for emulation software, though I do not recommend it, as you have to buy the version of mac os x.
Enjoy the new job and new mac!

 

[fayans]

Hey, guys I'm a PC user but am definately thinking about switching to Mac especially since I got my new job. I was just wondering if there is an emulation program to run the Mac O/S on my PC, preferably free? I want it not only to know if I'd really like to switch but also just to be prepared for my upcoming job since I'll be doing technical support for Apple desktops and Ipods.

And just on the side since I'll probably be getting a Mac (most likely a powerbook) sometime soon is it worth it to buy the current machines, or should I just wait for them to bring the Intel processors to their line-up?

[Edit] Didn't realize I posted this in the Hardware section , mods please move it if neccesary

What a nice font! Quiet refreshing seeing it here in MR rather than the usual.

 

[Plymouthbreezer]

What a nice font! Quiet refreshing seeing it here in MR rather than the usual.

Comic Sans?

 

[matticus008]

Comic Sans?

http://www.bancomicsans.com

 

[fayans]

Comic Sans?

Yes, it is

 

[Beasty Kato]

Lol yeah it's comic sans. Anyway, thanks guys and I'll check out the new powerbooks on the 19th. Might just be what my first pay goes to.

 

[Applespider]

What a nice font! Quiet refreshing seeing it here in MR rather than the usual.

And here was me wincing since it made my eyes hurt...

 

[Aliquis]

most likely, you are going to start using a mac, and then fall in love (I'm not being prejustice here). I used to do IT support in mac/pc enrvironment. That's what I saw the majority of the time.

What I'd maybe think about is to wait until they start training you, play with the mac some, you'll already be picking up on all stuff mac with their training. After you get a feel for how well you are going to like or dislike the OS, then make the choice of what mac to buy if you do. That way if you end up falling head for heels for OSX, they you can put your money toward the equivelent mac that will make you happy.