Which computer is best for engineering school?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the best computer options for engineering school, particularly focusing on preferences for non-Windows operating systems such as macOS and Linux. Participants explore the suitability of these platforms for various engineering applications and software compatibility.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a strong preference against Windows and seeks alternatives, specifically asking about the viability of macOS and Linux for engineering tasks.
  • Another participant notes that major engineering software is available for Linux and that similar software can run on macOS, although installation may require more effort.
  • A different viewpoint suggests that the choice of computer should depend on the specific software requirements, advocating for selecting the platform that best supports the desired applications.
  • One participant recommends macOS for its versatility and mentions that Macs can run Windows software through 'Virtual PC', albeit with performance limitations.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the best platform, with differing opinions on the merits of macOS versus Linux, and the importance of software compatibility influencing their recommendations.

Contextual Notes

Participants do not specify the types of engineering being discussed, which may affect the relevance of software availability on different platforms. There is also no resolution on the performance implications of running Windows software on macOS.

Who May Find This Useful

Students entering engineering programs, individuals considering non-Windows operating systems for engineering applications, and those interested in software compatibility across different platforms.

stjimmy
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I have a question about what computer to use for engineering.
You see I don't want to use a Windows box and would greatly perfer to use non-redmond software.
so..If you are very anti-windows, what makes sense?
can you use a mac? is that good for engineering school?
A Linux machine?

what do you think?
1.what is better for engineering a mac or linux?
or do I have no choice and must use windows?
2.would a linux/windows dual boot work?
(anyone who uses something like that)
3.any one with a computer using linux or macOS that is an engineer

ps don't
say such things as unsupportable statements
anti-mac(only good for graphic design ,toy etc
anti-linux( hackers stigma ,geek ,free= bad etc
I don't really care much about windows but I don't like blatent attacks
alrighty Help!


oh and pps thanks for any future replies
 
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What kind of engineering?

All of the major kinds of engineering software (CAD, computer algebra, circuit simulation, etc.) are available for Linux. Much of the exact same software will also run on a Mac, though you might have to spend more time getting it to work. If it were up to me, I'd choose Linux.

- Warren
 
You might not like ms too much but <cliche>Don't cut off your nose to spite your face</cliche>.

The best advice I can give you is to find the software you want to run and then get the platform it runs best on, whatever that might be. If it seems to be much of a muchness then Linux is free...
 
My opinion is to go Mac. This is not just based upon the fact that I'm a staunch Mac guy who detests Windows. It's a matter of versatility. Rather than try to explain the reasons myself, I'll just direct you http://www.apple.com/science/whymac/ . Any Mac with 'Virtual PC' will also run Windows software, but slowly. Forget about it for games, but it's fine for other stuff.
 
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