Originally Posted by
MapleLeaf
Is bootcamps or Parallels built right into the Mac? I could install my MS Office without having to purchase any other software?
Also am I nuts for thinking that I would need the model with 1 GB of RAM, not 512 MB?
Parallels is not built in -- it costs under $100 ($80 IIRC but don't quote me). I use it on a Mac Mini and it works great. I believe BootCamp is free but it is a "dual boot" situation -- you boot either Mac OS or XP. Parallels allow you to run windows in a window or full screen.
I bought the mac mini last summer just to play with (and see how some web pages I do render on a mac). It needed more memory (cam with 512mb, upgraded to 2GB) but other than that I am happy. I mostly use it as a "media server" -- iTunes, digital photos, as a server for my ReplayTV (think "Tivo" only better
) network.
That being said, when it comes time to replace my traveling computer, I will very closely look what Mac has to offer -- especially if the rumored flash-drive version comes in at a good price.
As to installing office, I don't think there would be a problem. Parallels handled the XP installation key and activation just fine.