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Old 08-09-2010, 08:12 PM
mitchbr47 mitchbr47 is offline
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Default ipad or a new computer
Quote:
Originally Posted by grandma-annie View Post
I need a new computer and am thinking of buying an IPAD. Any suggestions or comments... I don't know a lot of what would be a good fit for me.
I have an Ipad. I enjoy using it. The primary question is how do you currently use your computer. Are there programs that you use that aren't on the ipad? If it is to only check email and go on the web it might work. There are thousands of apps for the ipad. It is lightweight, has a great screen, and I get a good internet connection.
It is great for surfing on the internet and checking email. There are lots of interesting applications. But it can't replace my computer. Everyone's situation is different. Everything that goes on the ipad whether it is a Mac or a PC goes through iTunes. It is a free download. iTunes handles music, but also the downloads of software called Apps from the online ITunes store. iTunes (the software) also backs up everything on the ipad. So for all practical terms you will need a computer. Currently the iPad isn't set for printing without jumping through lots of hoops.
The only way to get around without using a computer is to buy one at the Apple store and have them set it up. You must do the initial setup connected to a computer using iTunes. You can download the Apps directly to the ipad after that, but you would have no backup. That wouldn't be wise. As I read your post again, you do have a computer. Maybe it can handle iTunes 9.1. You will need a USB 2 port to sync between the ipad and computer. Another issue is having a wireless connection in your house. That is a necessity. The 3G internet data option can run up a bill. You would need to deal with AT&T with a charge starting at $15 a month. It can be turned on and off on a monthly basis. My ipad doesn't have the G3. Wifi is good enough for me.

My wife has a laptop, a hand me down one at that. She only uses it to check her email and go on the internet. An ipad would be great for her needs. So when the second generation ipad comes out my current one might find a new user.