Computing: It’s Fast Enough!

I don’t need an excuse to talk about computers, because I love them so much. As a tech geek, I’ve always lusted after the latest and greatest. And yet now, for the first time since I began computing, I don’t feel the urge or compulsion to upgrade to newer machines.

Let me explain.

My two main computers are a 15″ Macbook Pro and Mac Pro. Both were purchased new in 2008 – the Mac Pro in February and the Macbook Pro in November. I use both machines extensively, the MBP has 4GB of RAM and the MacPro has 10GB installed.

I bring my Macbook Pro to work (along with my trusty Spire backpack). The main applications I use on the Macbook Pro are:

• Easy Grade Pro
• Coda
• Google Chrome
• Sparrow
• Photoshop CS4
• Transmit
• iCal
• Pages
• MarsEdit

I use the MBP primarily for writing, whether its HTML/CSS code or belting out documents. It occasionally gets used for design work (Photoshop / Sketchbook Pro) when I’m on the road.

For design work, I use the Mac Pro. I primarily run:

• Sketchbook Pro
• Photoshop
• Manga Studio Pro
• Painter
• Maya

With an OWC Solid State drive, the machine truly flies. It’s the single best upgrade I’ve made, and would be my default upgrade recommendation after memory.

Both machines have been incredibly reliable. My chief complaint with the Macbook Pro has always been how hot its undersides get. Thankfully, using the smcFanControl software has made this problem a thing of the past.

My only complaint about the MacPro is the limited video card upgrade options. I wish I could buy an off-the-shelf video card and pop it in, without having to resort to arcane hacks.

I’m eagerly anticipating Apple’s forthcoming Lion OS. When it’s released, I’ll perform a complete rebuild of both systems. Anecdotal reports I’ve read suggest that the OS will run fine on my computers.

I don’t feel the need to be on the bleeding edge with my computing gear. In fact, I’m very satisfied with my computing set-up, and I hope to use these machines for several more years.

–Krishna

Krishna June 3, 2011