Need help with a Mac Laptop

[durus]

I need to run a Windows XP program on a Mac Laptop. It doesn't seem to have the option to run it though. I looked around on the net and found virtual pc which is a microsoft product you have to pay for. Is this the best way to go? Are there any free programs I could use? If this is a Mac which has built in Murkysoft compatability, where would I find it/how would I check?

Not using the Mac is not an option as it's a client's machine, ideas, suggestions and information would be greatly appreciated. Will rep all who provide assistance :)

[rusky85]

I think you need bootcamp on the Mac so you can have Windows XP on the machine - bit like Dual Booting the PC

[vantastic]

The best way to run a PC based program on a mac is to trade the mac in for a PC... don't get me wrong, mac's are good for graphic designers and animators but thats about it... and cross-compatability especially Mac to PC is a nightmare...

[locust]

If it's a newer MacBook or MacBook Pro, it's got an Intel chip inside. Set up dual boot using BootCamp (on apple.com somewhere), or grab a free trial of Parallels Workstation and create a virtual machine.

If it's an iBook or PowerBook, then it's got a PowerPC chip inside. MS Virtual PC is your best option. You could also look at Q (http://www.kju-app.org/kju/), which is free.

[durus]

Thanks locust. Sounds like I'll be checking out the stuff you suggested. I appreciate the rapid response guys!

[jambo]

How did it go? Crossover is another (commercial) option.