Newbie Questions

You can use any mini display port external display. Connect the mini display port cable to the Thunderbolt ports on the Mac and then you are in business. Connecting external displays to an iMac is extremely simple to do. Apple explains it in OS X: How to use multiple displays with your Mac in Mountain Lion and earlier - Apple Support. While this advice letter is a bit out of date, it should still work fine with your new iMac.

As far as your new Magic Track Pad, it may take a little "getting used to" however after a week or so you will get the hang of it. You may find Use Multi-Touch gestures on your Mac - Apple Support useful too.

There is a plethora of information available for Windows users making the switch to a Mac. I'd begin with https://www.apple.com/support/macbasics/

Also, to make your posts more readable, please use paragraph breaks. We would appreciate that.

wposner wrote:

I had an Apple II in the late 70s early 80s

I also use a ball mouse on my PC (usb) and wondering if it will work on the iMac hardware. I did order a Magic Pad, as it seems to be quite an easy, intuitive interface.

any advice, links or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

I had the Apple II, but I never left Apple for PC. I'd be as lost on a pc as you are on a Mac.

Yes, the mouse will work.

Your welcome. BTW, if you get stumped on anything you have 90 days of complimentary AppleCare telephone support. http://www.apple.com/support/complimentary/

If you did not purchase AppleCare, I would suggest it. It extends the warranty to 3 years and also provides 3 years of phone support. The cost is extremely minor when compared to repair and even can be found at discounted prices if you shop at places like Amazon or B&H Photo, both Apple authorized resellers.