[WinMac] My new G4 - problems

John Hanks(jbh[at]biology.usu.edu)
Thu, 4 Nov 1999 11:12:46 -0700

Having just unpacked my new G4, I've run into some snags and disappointments
that I would like to share in the hope that someone will have a suggestion
or two for me.

1. (general rant) Upon unpacking I noticed that the G4 comes with the same
keyboard and mouse design that is slowly accumulating in my storage closet.
If these ever become collectors items then we will be in good shape, but in
the meantime it looks like I will be ordering more aftermarket keyboards and
mice as people within my department order G4s.

2. I have a KVM switch which until now has supported everything I have
thrown at it (PCs, Suns and Macs). But sadly, the G4 doesn't have an ADB
port, so can anyone recommend a good USB <-> ADB converter?

3. More KVM problems, the monitor (21" Studio Display) which works fine
through the KVM switch on many other machines doesn't talk to the G4. Since
this is in theory a pass-through connection, I'll follow up after I have
moved the machine and tried it with another, directly-connected monitor.

4. More bad news (depending on your opinion of OS 9), the G4 shipped with OS
8.6. I happen to like life on the bleeding edge so this is another
disappointment. In true Mac user tradition, I will throw more money at this
set-back and buy a copy of OS 9 (and OS X server).

My review to this point, a big thumbs down. I would have liked at least a
little backward compatibility in the form of an ADB port and even if I did
want a USB keboard/mouse, I would like one that was not designed for a
childs hands (note here that I am a big fat bastard with big fat fingers). I
am not looking forward to adding another monitor/keyboard/mouse and work
area to my already crowded office.

More to follow as I shoehorn this bad boy into our NT network and start my
Webserver adventure...

jbh

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This archive was generated by hypermail 2.0b2 on Thu Nov 04 1999 - 11:50:20 PST