How many Macs are too many macs?

Macs hold a special place in the hearts of Macfanatics. Mike Wendland shares a common dilemma: When to part with much loved computers that have been replaced by newer, shiner Macs.
Please don't think me greedy.

I'm just attached to my Macs.

I suspect I'm not alone: The more Mac computers I get, the harder it is to part with them. I no sooner pay for one than I buy another. And although I have sold a few over the years, lately I'm turning into a Mac miser.

You know those little old ladies that the newspapers regularly write about that have 347 cats in their house?

That's what I'm worried I may be like with my Macs.

I have a dual processor G5 with dual monitors, a 15-in PowerBook, a 15-in MacBook Pro, a G5 20-inch iMac and - thanks to work - a new 17-inch MacBook Pro.

There’s no way I can use them all. But it’s almost impossible to part with any of them.

I, for sure, should sell the PowerBook and, twice now, have started to post it on eBay or Craig’s List, only to chicken out at the last minute. The new Intel MacBooks don’t work with my Verizon Broadband Access PC card. The PowerBook does. So, I tell myself, I may need it when I go on vacation in a few weeks in case the place where we’ll be staying doesn’t have Net access.

Then there’s the new 15-in MBP. I bought it in March, only to be pleasantly surprised when, a month later, my employer suddenly provided me with a 17-in MBP. I should sell the 15-in. But, then again, that’s mine. What if work suddenly took back their 17-incher. And so the 15-in MBP sits in a carrycase. Just in case.

I don’t really use the big G5 and the two monitor setup anymore either. But when it comes to listing them, I get queasy. It’d be like selling a child. Or getting rid of my dog. I can’t. i just can’t.

The iMac is easy. I have given that to my wife. No way would she part with that. She’s now as hooked on Macs as I am.

Still, I wonder…. how many Macs are too many Macs?

5 Reasons To Purchase Desktop Computers

If you are in the market for a computer, there are a number of factors to consider.  Will it be used for your home, your office or perhaps even your home office combo?  First off, you will need to set a budget for your new purchase before deciding whether to shop for notebook or desktop computers.  Many offices use desktop computers because they are not intended to be moved around a lot.  In addition, affordability often plays a large role in someone’s decision as to whether to purchase notebook or desktop computers.

While you are shopping around, it’s important to keep in mind some of the benefits that go along with owning different types of computers.  To that end, this article provides five important reasons to purchase desktop computers.

- Desktop computers are typically much more affordable than notebook computers.  With notebooks, you are paying more for the convenience of portability.  For as little as $299.00, desktop computers can be purchased from one of the leading manufacturers and a notebook computer for as little as $499.00.
- Unlike notebook computers, replacing a keyboard, mouse, speakers or even a monitor does not require having your computer serviced by a professional repair shop.  Because notebook computers have everything built in, including the aforementioned features, it is more difficult to replace a keyboard or monitor as opposed to desktop computers, which operate on external connections.

- In the event of an unlawful entry into your home, desktop computers are not as likely to be stolen because of their weight and bulk.  Notebook computers, on the other hand, are small and portable.  This, alone, makes them more appealing to a thief than desktop computers.

- Desktop computers are stationary by nature.  Unlike a notebook computer, which can easily be moved from room to room, they are less likely to be dropped or broken because they are not moved as often.

- The vents on desktop computers are located on the back of the tower, which allows for proper ventilation that will help to prevent the computer from overheating.  Notebook computers, on the other hand, feature only one vent on the back with the remaining underneath the base.  If placed on a table, the air vents can become blocked and the computer may overheat.  If prolonged use leads to overheating, damage may result.

When choosing from the many desktop computers on the market, always make sure that you purchase from a manufacturer who has experience in creating computers.  Even though they are more affordable than notebooks, desktop computers are not cheap.  With an investment that involves several hundred dollars, you will want to consider the length of time the manufacturer has been in business, their reputation with customers and their warranty. 

Additionally, when choosing any system, including desktop computers, always look at the potential for future upgrading.  As you grow, you will want your computer to grow with you and a part of that will include a slight upgrade from time to time.  This is the only way to get the best use of your desktop computers and make sure that your investment is one that lasts for years to come.