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From: long@mcntsh.enet.dec.com (Rich Long)
Newsgroups: comp.sys.mac.misc
Subject: Re: give me solid facts: why is the mac better than MeSsy DOS/WINDOWS
Message-ID: <4119@ryn.mro4.dec.com>
Date: 12 Mar 91 14:43:42 GMT
Sender: guest@ryn.mro4.dec.com
Organization: Digital Equipment Corporation
Lines: 43


I've been reading this thread for a while, and just thought I'd jump in.

 I think the Mac is better for one simple reason: less hassle (substitute
 more, ah, descriptive word, if you like).

 For the most part, stuff on the Macintosh JUST WORKS. I don't have to worry
 about expanded/extended/unimaginable/unreachable memory. I plug in memory,
 and IT WORKS. I don't have to worry about path statements, and device
 drivers, etc., etc. I install an application and IT WORKS. Tossing an INIT in
 the System Folder is about as much configuration as I ever need to do. Case
 in point: I recently set up and used a freeware AFP file server without
 reading the documentation. Try something similar on a PC!

 The Macintosh is not without its flaws, but the fact is that it's carrying a
 lot less baggage than Windows. It's PAINFULLY obvious that Windows 3 is a GUI
 layered on top of a command line interface. I dislike the File Manager and
 Program Manager, because they are not graphically integrated (i.e. when you
 get into them, it is obvious there is a command line underneath). For
 example, Copy... in the File Manager brings up a dialog where I get to type a
 drive letter! Oooh. Aaaaah. Windows, IMO, is not a true graphic interface,
 but another DOS shell.

 When I first bought a Mac in 1987, the DOS world was in the throes of the
 introduction of the PS/2, OS/2, the EISA and MicroChannel, and VGA. I looked
 at the Mac, and it JUST WORKED. It cost more, but I just didn't need the
 hassle with the DOS machines.

 As for the controversy over prices, with Apple's Macs being compared to
 PClones, I can't speak for a cheap clone, never having taken one apart, but
 presumably machines from an established maker are of higher construction
 quality. If ever you've taken apart one of the modular Macs, you'd see what I
 mean. On the IIci anyway, two screws, a couple of clips, and all the pieces
 are out. Beautiful, clean design. 

 None of this matters, though. What it comes down to is what's important to
 YOU! I like my computers (and everything else) to just work (as much as
 possible), so I picked a Mac. Your mileage may vary. See dealer for details.
 Not valid in all states.

Richard C. Long  *  long@mcntsh.enet.dec.com       
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