Many students assume they need to use a Microsoft Windows-based computer while in campus labs. Machines made by Apple Computer, coupled with a new operating system, however, present an alternative for those looking to try something different.

The 445 Apple Macintoshes on campus are spread out over a number of different locations including Earth & Engineering Sciences, Patterson Building, Pollock Library, Waring Commons and the Willard Building. All computers run a recent version of the Macintosh operating system, Mac OS X 10.2.6. There are over 130 different software applications installed on each machine, including many of the same programs found on Windows PCs.

Many of the Macintoshes on campus come in the form of iMacs, which offer a 15-or 17-inch screen attached to a hemisphere base in one compact unit.

"We're not telling Windows users to switch," said John Harwood, Senior Director for Teaching and Learning with Technology, "but we think that Macs have a wonderful set of features that you won't find on the Windows operating system."

Harwood said both students and faculty were very happy to see Mac OS X arrive on campus this fall. According to Information Technology Services' Web site, OS X is a much more stable environment than previous versions of Macintosh operating systems. It is also more efficient and greatly reduces the number of system crashes. The OS also offers an entirely revamped user interface.

The relative proportion of Macs on campus has fallen in the past 10 years, Harwood said. While Windows was once equally popular as the Mac on campus, it now accounts for 75 percent of machines in labs.

Macs are most well known for their ability to handle graphics, photography and Web design, said James Thurman, assistant professor of art. Most courses in the School of Visual Arts use Macs because that is what graduates will be exposed in the workforce, he said.

Thurman said few students have trouble moving from Windows to the Mac. "I think the platforms are converging and there's less and less problems for students," he said. Thurman added that many programs students need, such as Adobe Photoshop, are available on both types of computers.

There's also one argument in favor of using Macs that few can deny.

"I like the way that it looks," said Artit Jirapatnakul (junior-electrical engineering). Using a Mac also allows him to remotely log in to a UNIX machine that he needs for work.

The availability of the latest Macs on campus has led to many students becoming more computer literate.

"I'm starting to use Macs more in the computer labs because I'm starting to understand them," said Matt Eliason (sophomore-journalism), a long-time Windows user.