Tom,

I've never used a mac but as entrenched in Windows as it sounds like you 
are, I think I'd be inclined to stay there.  A mac might well be more stable 
and easy to use but you  would not likely be able to drop windows entirely 
and you'd have to then deal with two different platforms.  My gut says if 
you were just using the computer at home for your personal stuff or starting 
from the beginning it might be a good idea but it seems to me you'd be 
courting trouble.  I'm not sure the gains would be worth it.  But having 
said that, I must repeat I've never used one and I too will be interested in 
what others with more experience have to say. Lou
----- Original Message ----- 
From: "tom behler" <[log in to unmask]>
To: <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Thursday, November 05, 2009 8:59 PM
Subject: off topic: Switching from Windows PC to a Mac


>    Hello all.
>
> I know that this post is "off topic", so I'll start right off the bat by
> asking anyone with info to reply to me privately at:
>
> [log in to unmask]
>
> I'm getting to the point where I need to seriously think about replacing 
> my
> home PC.  I have always heard good things about Macs as compared to 
> Windows
> machines, but kept putting off trying a Mac out, since I am currently 
> using
> all windows-based machines, and have an SMA for Jaws.  I also  have the
> Duxbury Braille translation software for Windows.
>
> My Jaws SMA will be up this year, and my version of Duxbury is getting
> outdated.
>
> A lot of people tell me that Macs are much easier to use, and less
> virus-prone than Windows machines.  In addition, I have heard that the
> newest Macs have a built-in speech screen reading program, that is fairly
> comparable to Jaws.
>
> Obviously, if I were to get a Mac, I'd have to worry about compatibility
> between the home Mac, and my windows-based machine at work.  I also need 
> to
> know if the Duxbury Braille translation program has a version that works
> with macs.
>
> There's lots to think about here, but I thought I'd start with getting 
> input
> from you guys.  I didn't think it'd be appreciated if I posted this quiry 
> on
> the Jaws users list.  (grin)
>
> Thanks for any wisdom you can provide, and again, please reply privately.
>
> 73 from Tom Behler:  KB8TYJ