hatter, or The hatter (not sure of typical usage)
Thanks for comments.
I understand some but not all.
If you are willing, perhaps more about my objective would help provide more insight...
I have had an iMac7,1 (2.8 GHz, Intel Core 2 Duo) for some time. I've upgraded to OS 10.6.8. I'm semi-retired but still consulting. Have recently developed more problems with accessing business client's internet sites. Their sites were built with various Microsoft tools. Have tried all web browsers Snow Leopard can run and Microsoft lists as compatible with systems I'm trying to access. Unfortunately none of these solutions are fully functional. Expect waiting for Microsoft (or others) to fix compatibility problems will be fruitless.
Based on discussions with several others, it seems a dual boot Mac may offer a solution to these and other issues. I'm thinking of setting up dual boot operating systems including Snow Leopard (for continued use of existing 32 bit software) and a newer OS (Mountain Lion or Mavericks) to use newer and more compatible applications/browsers when needed. (Other people are accessing same client systems with their more current Macs... this kind of dual boot setup should allow me to do the same, without giving up or being forced to replace a variety of software that works fine for me.)
Choosing the right/best hardware solution, system configuration and software to accomplish this will be a bit of a stretch for me. (While I consider myself at least some what computer savvy, I have not done any of this before.)
Based on advise from friends and research to date, I think I may want a Mac PRO with mid 2010 Westmere processor(s).
Focus to-date has been on an 8 core, dual processor configuration but I'm open to considering other options.
I am not certain about single vs. dual processors.
While I don't expect to need a lot of processing power/speed, I would like to aim for 8-10 years of use from what I buy next.
I use iWork and OpenOffice for business applications. I have a library of digital photos and use Photoshop Elements for editing. I also have a digital music library and use iTunes for storage and playback. I'm also beginning to try my hand at limited video editing/creation.
ALL data files are stored on a Synology, network attached RAID server.
I'm anticipating setting up a new Mac with two hard drives. One drive for Snow Leopard OS and all 32 bit software, and one drive for more current OS and all 64 bit software. All data will continue to be stored on my RAID NAS.
If I can understand and purchase an appropriate configuration for my needs, I may be able to avoid the challenge (and potential pitfalls) of trying to customize a system myself.
Any other thoughts/suggestions will be appreciated.