Q) How do I briefly explain and position Macintosh with the PowerPC
microprocessor?
A) Macintosh with PowerPC technology is the next generation of personal
computing.
* A price/performance breakthrough based on RISC technology.
* Offers smooth migration paths for both Macintosh and PC users.
* Has excellent future growth on the Apple, IBM, and Motorola alliance.
* Introduced first in the mid to high end of product line.
Q) When should K-12 customers consider a PowerPC-based computer?
A) If a K-12 customer is currently considering a Macintosh Quadra or has
cross platform needs (DOS, Windows), then the Power Macintosh would be
an appropriate choice.
Q) Will a Power Macintosh "look" different than a Macintosh today?
A) The primary operating system for the Power Macintosh is System 7 the
same operating system shipping with every Macintosh today. Apple is
moving our mainstream operating system to PowerPC technology. Users get
the power of RISC technology, familiar Macintosh user interface, and
need no re-training.
Q) How do I position Power Macintosh to a DOS or Windows friendly audience?
A) Here we need to explain the advantages of making the technology leap to
RISC technology, exemplifying Apple's technology leadership. Once
people understand this, we can show why Apple has an excellent migration
story.
Q) What sort of upgrade solutions will Apple have available at
introduction, and how much will those upgrades cost?
A) Apple has stated that upgrades for Quadra and Centris models will be
available at introduction. Additionally, Apple and third-party
developers are working to create upgrades for other Macintosh models as
well.
Q) Will important K-12 applications be compatible at introduction (for
example, ClarisWorks, Mac School, HyperCard)?
A) Nearly any application that runs on current 680x0 models will be
compatible on Power Macintosh. While the initial focus for native
applications is targeted more towards mid-range and high-end customers,
we expect most developers to start Power Macintosh projects soon if they
haven't already. Claris has announced a Power Macintosh version of
ClarisWorks.
Support Information Services