I noticed that the computer was a little pokey when switching between users and switching between operating systems with 512mb of RAM. It could be done, but it wasn’t all that snappy. Considering it was a new computer, I didn’t want to be feeling frustrated with it. So I spent $165 at NewEgg.com and picked up two 1GB sticks of RAM. They arrived last night and within 10 minutes of opening the box I had them installed (take out the battery, remove three screws, drop them in).
The difference is unreal. Quite simply, the computer is blazingly fast. I keep Windows XP running all the time, and switch to applications within it the same way I switch between iTunes and Firefox on the OSX side. Once you’ve installed the Parallel’s tools within XP, it really is completely seamless.
At any time, I can switch XP to full screen mode and then for all intents and purposes it’s as if I’m working on a PC. The only incompatibility I’ve found is that the iSight camera didn’t work right off the bat in WebEx. However, I have to admit that I haven’t looked into it yet either.
Honestly, this is the most impressed I’ve ever been with a computer. Don’t get me wrong, I’m always excited to get a new computer. But this one is really a cut above. If you are in love with Mac’s, but just can’t give up the PC, I’d definitely encourage you to look into an Intel Mac.
But the big question is: Can you run OS X, XP, and Linux at the same time? 
6/8/2006
I knew you would like it. Glad to read you upped the RAM. Keep us posted on the iSight issue. Aaron, check out this:
Release Candidate 2 for Mac is NOT simply a “dual-boot” solution; rather, it empowers users the ability to use Windows, Linux and any other operating system at the same time as Mac OS X, enabling users to enjoy the comfort of their Mac OS X desktop while still being able to use critical applications from other OSes.”>
6/8/2006
Hope this link works…Steve, if it doesn’t work, link Aaron to the Parallel site…
I knew I would have to take the plunge into Windows to be able to do digital storytelling workshops on both platforms. Looks like my new MacBook Pro will save me from having 2 laptops. For those of you educators who chafe at the idea of spending ~$300 for another operating system, I just ordered Windows XP OEM version from Academic Superstore for $159. http://www.academicsuperstore.com/item/?page=Title&tname=245995&title=Windows%20XP
–Joe
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