The operating system controls the computer and its hardware components and provides the interface between the computer and the programs you use. Today, for most people, the basic choice is between Windows by Microsoft Corporation, and Mac OS by Apple Computer Corporation. Generally, Windows is the dominant operating system in the business world, while Apple Computers running Mac OS are well represented in educational institutions. While Windows computers generally dominate the market for home and business computers, Apple Computer has recently introduced several innovative and successful products. Apple Computers are generally more common in high-end graphics development fields.
Apple computers are well known as being easy to set up and operate.
With the right processor and enough memory, Apple computers can run most Windows programs if you purchase a special Windows emulation program. EMU supports both Windows and Macintosh computers and both types are represented in our computing labs. The following information refers to desktop computers. We suggest you consider at least Pentium II's at speeds of at least 300 MHz or better, Pentium III's, at similar speeds, or equivalent, for Windows systems. RAM is the memory the computer uses to run programs.