Using an iMac in tandem with MacBook Air

Question

Using an iMac in tandem with MacBook Air

What is the best way to use an iMac and MacBook Air? Should I use a time machine backup from my iMac to essentially copy the iMac or should I setup two different computers? I originally wanted to have both of them mirror each other but there isn't a way to do so with out paying for it. I know you can use Drop Box but the one file that I want to transfer is too large without paying for extra file store options. What are your thoughts?

Also, up until just recently I had the Air setup from a time machine backup but I ran into issues with the Air having the same names as the iMac [i.e. the Air was labeled iMac (2)].

iMac, OS X Mavericks (10.9.2)

Posted on Mar 27, 2014 3:03 PM

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Answer 1

sberman

Level 10

263,625 points

Mar 27, 2014 3:16 PM in response to HistoryTeacher88

I am having some difficulty understanding your question because you seem to be offering a method of solving a problem (e.g., using mirroring) instead of describing the problem you are trying to solve (e.g., having a redundant system, or keeping a current backup).

Anyway, an easy way to migrate from an iMac to a MacBook Air without having the computer name problem you mentioned would be to use Migration Assistant. This explains:

http://support.apple.com/kb/HT5872

Regarding Time Machine backup, your question implies that Time Machine storage is somehow equivalent to a computer. Instead, I suggest viewing Time Machine storage as equivalent to a storage device, such as an Apple Time Capsule.

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Answer 2

Mar 27, 2014 3:29 PM in response to sberman

Thank you for your response.

I'm sorry for the confusion but purhaps I am confused and so I don't exactly what to ask. I am going to attempt following the instructions found in the link you left and we'll se how it goes from there.

I was not happy with the way I using the computers so I am going to try a new way.

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Answer 3

sberman

Level 10

263,625 points

Mar 27, 2014 3:30 PM in response to HistoryTeacher88

Good luck! I hope you find using the MacBook Air and Time Machine quite intuitive (as I do).

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