December 5, 2010

Just had to write something

I took possession of a new IMAC desktop computer yesterday and I wanted to comment about it here.
I spent time setting it up yesterday, and still don't understand much about it, but if it works, I will be able to record my music and move forward in a big way very soon. 
There are many things about it that are not quite right yet. I don't think I have it set up the way it should be. But, like all computers, there is a learning curve.
Looking at it compared to my Dell laptop, that I bought less than a year ago, is like the difference between a Ford and a Rolls Royce. The craftsmanship is amazing. This thing is a work of art. The mouse has no buttons on it, but has 4 functions built in and all you have to do is touch it.
  • It has a left button
  • It has a right button
  • It has a slide sideways thingy
  • It will scroll
All of this without buttons!
The keyboard is very small with large keys, and is very easy to type with once you get the hang of it. One problem I have is that it is missing keys, or I just haven't found them yet.
  • No backspace key. I'm sure there is a backspace function there somewhere, I just haven't found it yet.
  • No beginning or end keys. I always correct my spelling as I go and I use those keys a lot. But right now, I don't know where they are. I have heard there is a larger keyboard available, and if I don't find the missing strokes, I may just have to invest in one.
  • No page up or down keys. They have to be here somewhere!
The keyboard and mouse are wireless and the computer is mounted in the monitor, which is huge, by the way. There are no wires anywhere! Wow! When I go to my Dell, I have to climb through the maze to get there and I have to be careful to not pull anything out. The mouse is not as easy to slide around as I would like. I have to move it so far to get to another part of the screen. I think there is an adjustment somewhere, but again, I haven't had time to look.
When I say the monitor is huge, I mean in viewing size, not actual size. It has a 21 inch diagonal screen. It is super clear, not anything like the Dell.
The footprint on the table is so small compared to the Dell.
I am hoping to use this as a tool, and not so much as a toy.
It has stereo speakers, a camera and mic built in. They came with the unit, not as an add on with the Dell. The software I needed came loaded, plus I have disc backup, that the Dell doesn't have.
Ergonomically, this thing is very nice. It's easy to use and see everything I need to see.
I downloaded a variety of programs I use on the Dell, and they work flawlessly. I still have to figure out the best way to transfer pictures over. Apple has a nice program where I can make collages with music, and I plan to do a tribute to Donna that I couldn't do with Open Office on my Dell.
I will leave my music alone for now since I am going to fill this drive with my own music soon.
All in all, if this computer works out, I will be transferring everything over to it and probably sell the Dell, along with a pile of other stuff I have accumulated. This will help offset the cost of the new computer, which isn't that much when you consider all the stuff it comes with. It really is a wonder.
If PCs were this nice, Apple wouldn't have a chance.
I have downloaded security software and installed it even though they say Macs don' get hacked all that often, but I am not taking any chances.

My exercise program this week consisted of moving construction materials for the porch, and painting. Last night, I installed one of the curtain rods, and hung my first curtains. I was very slow because I didn't want to make mistakes that i couldn't repair. It seems to have worked well, although I am not too happy with the new curtain colors. I will look around for better colors and materials with my next purchase.
I went for a long walk last night after bundling up. It really wasn't that cold, but I was for some reason. I couldn't get warm yesterday. My new winter layers are wonderful and I felt very comfortable walking. I stopped by the grave site, and found that the stone had been installed. I couldn't take a picture of it because my cell doesn't have a flash. But, it looks just like it's supposed to look and I am pleased.
Today, I have to go look at doors at Home Depot, and then I'm going to go to a candle shop to stock up for the winter. I like scented candles in the house. They smell better than the house after years of people and animals. Once I get the carpet cleaned or replaced, that aroma should dissipate somewhat.

2 comments:

Larraine said...

I'm so jealous! First my husband gets a Mac mini. Then you get a Mac. I'm feeling left out. I'm saving my pennies. I want one! Happy Holidays, Lee!

Lee said...

Happy Holidays to you too, Larraine. They always seemed out of reach, but I've had no control recently, so I got one. It's growing on me day by day. I have a friend who has a Mini that does everything he needs it to do, and it's much easier to use than his PC.
Another friend gets angry when he has to use his PC instead of his Mac. Everything should be built this good.