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Mini vs iMac

The Mac Mini is often overlooked as a desktop Mac but has advantages compared to an iMac, especially compared to the 21 inch model.

  1. RAM is upgradeable (21″ iMac is not)
  2. Easy to ship, easy to transport.
  3. Attach nearly any display.
  4. Available now (iMacs are often on backorder)
  5. Computer can be serviced separate from display and swapped with a spare.

The mini can be ordered with an SSD drive for speed or used with external drives. One of the main limitations is RAM, which is limited to 16GB. This makes it more of a direct comparison to the 21 inch iMac although in our opinion it’s a better buy because of the flexibility.

iMac RAM Not Upgradeable

Moving more and more towards the sealed unit, Apple has made the 21 inch iMac RAM unserviceable. It comes with a healthy (for now) 8GB but down the road if you want 16 (the max), the computer would have to have the screen and the logic board removed. Consider getting 16 GB of RAM to begin with or buying a Mac Mini instead, which still allows a quick and easy upgrade. The 27 inch iMac doesn’t have this limitation.

Mountain Lion Server Certified

We’re pleased to announce that our tech, Clay Lewis is one of the first few in the nation to become Apple Certified on Mountain Lion Server. MacLab is now certified in 10.8 and 10.8 server as well as holding Apple’s Mobility Technical Competency. The MTC designation is given by Apple to individuals within companies trained and knowledgeable on implementing managed iOS solutions. All MacLab techs are certified and members of the Apple Consultant’s Network.

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Adobe Ends CS 3,4 Upgrades

Adobe will shut the door for users of Creative Suite 3 and 4 on December 31st. Upgrade pricing to Creative Suite CS6 will no longer be available for these versions. If you or your office is planning on moving to Creative Suite 6 from CS3 or CS4, purchase now! Waiting until January 1 could cost  thousands. Here’s an example.

Before Jan 1: Upgrade to CS6 Design and Web Premium $949

After Jan 1: CS6 Design and Web Premium $1899

MacLab is an authorized Adobe reseller. Please let us know if we can help you upgrade before the deadline.

iMac Availability

New iMacs have been missing in action for awhile now. The 21 inch models should be out soon, but the 27 inch iMacs are still going to be a long way away. We’re in the midst of an iMac shortage. If you need a desktop Mac, you have a few choices. Mac Pro (my fav), Mac Mini, or going with a reconditioned Mac. Apple’s reconditioned Macs look like new and you might also be able to find an iMac. As of this writing, there are some 27 inch models—grab while you can. Use the link below to explore Apple’s deals on refurbs. You can buy Applecare on refurbs for full warranty.


Apple Certified Refurbished Products

Mountain Lion Released

Yesterday Apple released Mac OS 10.8, Mountain Lion. The upgrade is available from the App Store (and only from the App Store) for $19.99. Mac OS 10.7 (Lion) is no longer available, which could lead to complications for Macs that cannot run Mountain Lion (see previous post for list of compatible Macs). Should you upgrade? Well, I would give it a little bit if possible. We usually recommend at least a small wait period before applying a major upgrade. If you’d like to move to Mountain Lion now or in the near future, MacLab would be glad to assist and make sure your Mac is ready.

Mountain Lion new features.

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