A few new terms and why
July 12, 2011 on 6:17 am | In Hacks, Uncategorized | No CommentsHackintosh: noun, a generic term used to describe a non apple computer running Macintosh Operating system.
Hack: verb, in computer vernacular (geek speak) it means to change or alter hardware, software, or both to reach a desired function.
I know it has been a while since I wrote my last blog and frankly writing about 30 year old computers at best bores most people. Second I would like to welcome any new reader, specially those from Alapaha. Yes, your pastor is a card carrying geek.
For this past week I have been working on installing Mac OS 10.6 on my HP Mini 311 netbook. Today in class was it’s first real world trial. For the two who are really curious I am stable at 10.6.6 anything past that I get kernel panic no matter what patches or kext I use or alter.
Why? This is the question many will ask. And there are several reasons.
- As a student (and student of theology) I find many resources are available or better run on Mac’s.
- I have grown tired of Windows and the giant target it draws on ones back for malware and Trojan horses. It is an arms race between protection utilities and malware developers.
- Cost. See money has reared its ugly head once more. Ever since Santa brought me a bare bones computer system (a computer kit ) for Christmas in high school, building what I wanted or needed has not been an obstacle. A new Macbook Air cost well over $1200. My HP Mini 311 has similar hardware specs (and I had already put in a 64gb ssd). The best part it was almost given to me by Verzion when I renewed my wireless broadband contract.
How? Well it was quite simple with very few complications. First I purchased a copy of Mac OS 10.6 at an apple store (pay for software, don’t steal 8th commandment everyone). I searched and found others who have done the same project on the same hardware and read their methods and notes. I downloaded used a bootloading program (helps the computer to use the Mac OS set up disk, and has nothing to do with boot legging). I found the appropriate software patches to deal with the computer not being a real Mac. I will not bore you with the details but I was able after a bit of trail and error to install every and have a computer that is stable and runs well.
What about open source? I like Ubuntu Linux. I really do. And yes I do realize that OSX is based off of BSD. The truth is that many things that I use or want to use need a well developed and supported operating system. Linux is not there just yet. I also don’t want to run every program in emulation. There are a few GNU/GPL programs I use (such as gimp, a photo editing software) even in windows. If I need a printer 90% of the time it will have mac drivers but linux I find it is more like 30% of the time. Yes there is an issue of practicality here.
So there you have it everyone. I hope you have enjoyed this blog.
Good night,
Matthew
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