--- Forwarded Message from Duncan Charters <[log in to unmask]> ---
>Date: Thu, 27 Apr 2006 21:22:09 -0500
>To: [log in to unmask]
>From: Duncan Charters <[log in to unmask]>
>Subject: #8227 Looking for Mac language lab software solutions
Initial testing appears to have confirmed that full-feature LAN-based
systems designed to run under Windows XP shuld be compatible with the new
Intel-based Macs. Emulation software (Virtual PC) could run these systems,
but was too slow compared to running natively on a PC. The new Intel Macs
can run XP natively, so speed is no longer an issue. Apple's free Boot Camp
public beta software enables XP on a Mac running OS 10.4 (Tiger) right now.
While bugs have been reported in the beta software, it is expected that OS
10.5 (Leopard), which we may see by fall, will have these ironed out.
Renet's ReLanPro (distributed and supported by ASC Direct) is an example of
an XP-based system that should run on the new Macs. Any LAN-based system
running under XP should have this capability, so this could be an option
for other companies too (e.g. SANS, Genesis, Sanako). All the companies
would be wise to do some good testing, and they may not be willing to
support a hardware system that relies on beta software right now. However,
where there is a preference for Macs, this development has the potential
for giving the best of all worlds, so a little wait might be worth it. For
those needing to proceed right away, nothing's guaranteed but Apple would
have a lot to lose if its upgrade path to Leopard doesn't work out. It
appears to be mainly a question of timing now, rather than capability.
Duncan
Dr. Duncan Charters
Professor and Chair, Language Department
Principia College, Elsah, IL 62028-9799
Telephone: (618) 374-5252 Fax: (618) 374-5465
E-mail: <[log in to unmask]>
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