Apple mac newbie needs advice

[css_jay99]

Yeah, quad looks good, plus the HD 3000 integrated graphics aren't actually too bad. Integrated graphics have always been absolutaly rubbish but the one integrated into the Core ix chipset are capable of a bit of light gaming if needed.

Doesn't matter if its Apple Store, Comet, Pc World etc, same product and warranty, no difference. I tend to use John Lewis due to extra warrantly and good service.

As for updates, wouldn't worry, takes 10 mins even if you have to update it yourself.

I was looking for staright of the production line without a need for update

i just checked john lewis and they only sell the base non server version. shame cos they are including a 2yr warranty


css_jay99

[Scrag Meister]

Over £2k and you can claim the VAT back.

[stek]

Over £2k and you can claim the VAT back.

inc VAT of course!

[seyre1972]

Buy it from Apple - PCworld/Currys have the worlds worst support/follow up

ok looks like i am sold on the quad core!


I understand that Mac OS x 10.7 Lion came out in july 2011 ..... and that 10.7.2 update came out oct 2011

(1) Would the mac minis (or even other macs) that ship direct from apple come with 10.7 or 10.7.2 ? ... i dont want to be faffing round updating if i could make sure i pick the latest build


(2) considering same price at pcworld/currys/comet and apple. Is there any particular reason to buy straight from apple store which is about 1.5 miles further from those lots?


css_jay99

Please, please do not buy it from PCworld/Currys !!!! Buy it form the Apple store, any hassle - take it back to the Apple store - they'll fix it there and then, or give you a new one.

Buy it from PCworld/Currys, any problems - raise a case, wait for it to be sent off, chase for an update, wait for it to come back, and so on.


seyre

[css_jay99]

Over £2k and you can claim the VAT back.

mac mini server is only £849

Please, please do not buy it from PCworld/Currys !!!! Buy it form the Apple store, any hassle - take it back to the Apple store - they'll fix it there and then, or give you a new one.

Buy it from PCworld/Currys, any problems - raise a case, wait for it to be sent off, chase for an update, wait for it to come back, and so on.


seyre

Apple bluewater/lakeside it is then.


Now I have to convince the missus that I bought it bargain price on ebay


css_jay99

[css_jay99]

final questions

1) I have an external laptop style USB blu-Ray/DVD burner, will the mac be able to at least use it as a DVD reader ? ... i dont want to go buying another drive
2) Will bug standard dell wired keyboard n mouse work ?. I read somewhere that I could end up needing them initially before I could setup the wireless Apple ones?
3) Is apple care worth it? , can I buy it at a later date at similar price ... this will be pushing the price up

css_jay99

[Durbs]

final questions

1) I have an external laptop style USB blu-Ray/DVD burner, will the mac be able to at least use it as a DVD reader ? ... i dont want to go buying another drive
2) Will bug standard dell wired keyboard n mouse work ?. I read somewhere that I could end up needing them initially before I could setup the wireless Apple ones?
3) Is apple care worth it? , can I buy it at a later date at similar price ... this will be pushing the price up

css_jay99

1. it should work as a reader if the manufacturer has released Mac drivers. You can also probably use it to actually burn to Blu-Ray if you have an app like Toast which supports that on Mac. Playing back Blu-Rays - dunno if there are any software players for bluray or whether Toast supports that too?
2. Any USB keyboard and mouse will work with it
3. Dont know whether its worth it but I bought apple care recently, just as my 12 month warrantly was about to expire, so yes, you can buy later.

[css_jay99]

Thanks very much.

looks like I have a new toy to play with tonight .

so much power for something so small !.

css_jay99