Well it felt like an experience, but then again, it felt like being overwhelmed by technology. I went with Paul to the Apple Computer Store today. Now I want you to know I had no idea what that ment when we left the house. Indeed, a Computer Store was not a new thing to me. I have been in Office Max and Staples and seen any number of computers, but this was not that kind of an experience. No, it was rather an inspiring eye opener. I had no idea what a Mac Computer looked like. A small box, setting along side a huge screen and a very small and compact keyboard. White is the color.
I discovered the Mac Mini is no understatement. We have 'towers' that hold the makings of our computers. There sat this tiny flat box with more power and capablility than both of our present computers put together. One slot in the front that accepts whatever you are working with. The screen has a menu across the bottom which offers just about anything you would want to do, basically. If you need to be more business like, you might have to add one group of programs, but the only one we might use was 'works' so letters could be composed.
I could hardly get over the variety of things the store had going on. Different spaces for different things. One low space was for the children. Round balls for seats and two huge screen monitors that were connected to computers that were outfitted with darling programs for the small ones. Two boys that looked as if they might be 4 to 6 years in age were making them do all sorts of fun things. Music and games. One area with nothing but sound systems for iPods. Which was what brought us here in the first place.
Paul has been talking about getting a CD Player for some time. He waited too long it appears. When he went to Radio Schak they told him they did not carry them anymore. The iPod was what everyone was using. So Paul bought one. He has invested in a lot of CD's that have the Music he likes. Now he was excited to come back and get them down loaded so he could put them on the iPod. The only problem of course, his computer is too old and not capable of doing the job. He got on the Phone and called his brother-in-law Bill Nelson, who informed him he would probably have to get a newer computer, and that Apple Mac was what would the best upgrade. That is how we ended up at the Apple Store.
I had looked the Computers up on the internet last night, but when I saw that small flat box, I had no idea it was a Main Frame for the Mac. So small and compact it didn't look as if it could do anything. Was I wrong.
Paul even got a Bose Sound System that his iPod connects to so he can listen to his Music too. Should knock his sox off. I am happy for him.
He purchased the right to attend special one on one classes to help him learn how best to use his Mac Mini. He can make appointments on his computer and then go into the store where he will be able to spend time with a specialist who can lead him along. I think it will be great for him. As for myself, I am still dizzy from the amount of information I got while I was there. I guess I have to agree with Paul that the experience was pretty wonderful and we were impressed with the beautiful white units that we were faced with.
All the 'normal' things Paul has with his computer now will work with the Mini Mac, but he did have to get an adapter to be able to plug all the older things into. The ports on the back of the Mini Mac will not accomodate those bigger plugs. He has that special keyboard he bought with bigger keys, etc for his use. It would not be easy to replace. The mouse could be replaced with a wireless I guess if he needs to make that kind of a change. He isn't sure about his printer. It should work, but he can get one that is compatable for only $100.00 if it is needed. He really doesn't use his printer all that much, so I don't think it will be necessary.
All I can say is if you want to have an eye opener, just stop in at the Apple Store in San Luis Obispo. It is opposite Victorias Secret on Higuera Street. The place is like a bee hive, but there is still plenty of room to give the newest a test. I saw one women come in and connect her laptop to one of the monitors and do something. It apparently is user friendly for those who are using the Mac products. Any age you can think of is in the store. The Floor Director is carrying around an iPad to keep in touch with the staff and what they are doing. He got one of the young men to help us. Everyone seems to have a job and is very capable in giving all the information and help you could possibly need.
I guess the final or bottom line of the time I spent is that I am further down the ladder in todays technology than ever I have been. I can type and do my e-mail and get a bulletin out once a week for the Ward, and that is just about my limit. There are a ton of other things this Dell will do, but I haven't a clue as to how to use it. What I can do is only by cue cards I have made up. Some of them I have lost the understanding of what it means.
Once I could change the background on my Blog, but I have not been able to work out the notes I made of how to do it again. One of these days I will have to get together with one of the Grand Children to help me. Not that the back ground I have now is all that bad, but a new look would be nice. For those who read my 'ramblings' what I have is probably great enough!
Just to think, all that contraption Paul has on his desk now will be replaced with something smaller than a box of chocolates, much smaller in fact. It will take me about 2 hours to re-arrange things so he can get it up and working. They set him up with a new e-mail address as well. I think he will enjoy having that.
Now I have to come down off the high I found myself in just walking around that Store. How I wish I could have learned enough to play a bit, but as illiterate as I am I didn't think that was wise. After all - when you aren't up to such high tech equipment, best you don't 'tip your hand'.
Greatful to have lived long enough to know it is there and wise enough to realize it is more than anything I will ever need. Just amazes me as to how much my Grand Children and Great Children have to assist them in making their productivity expand beyond the limits my generation was impared with. Go get up kids. I am happy for you.
Written this 21st day of June 2010
by: Eileen Rosenberg
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