Alright, so I often get asked what sort of kit I am running. To answer this question once and for all, here is an outline of all the computer and technology gear which I use.
Main Home Computer
Apple Mac Pro
MonitorsI have three monitors connected to the Mac Pro, running extended desktop over all the displays.
KeyboardMicrosoft Natural Ergonomic Keyboard 4000 MouseLogitech MX620 cordless laser mouse PrinterSamsung CLX-3160FN multifunction device. This is connected via Ethernet into my home network. It also provides functionality such as scan-to-email and scan-to-network, allowing me to easily scan documents and covert them into a PDF file for electronic distribution. BackupAll my data is stored in a separate data hard drive partition on the Mac Pro. I have setup VMware Fusion to access the data stored on the Mac Pro (using Shared Folders) so there is no need to duplicate data. The first line of defense against hard drive failure is the RAID-5 redundant hard drive setup in the computer. I also keep a cold-spare hard drive, so I can immediately replace a drive in case it fails. I also backup the computer using Time Machine to an 1 GB Lacie external hard drive. The drive is connected to the computer via Firewire 800. Software
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Home ServerMac Mini
Home NetworkNetwork CoreThe core of my home network consists of an 8-port gigabit Netgear Ethernet switch. This connects all the devices on my desk (including several computers, printers, etc) onto the network. The switch uplinks to a 100 megabit Netgear wireless DSL router which provides internet connectivity via the Transact network. I operate a wireless network to also allow laptop and iPhone usage at home. On the RoadApple MacBook
Apple 3G iPhone
I have a BodyGuardz scratch proof cover on the iPhone 3G. They are excellent covers, and I will write a review of the covers shortly (especially about the fun application procedure). Additionally, I also have a Mophie iPhone 3G Juice Pack. This is an external battery pack for the iPhone. I have seen many competing products, but this is the only “smart” battery pack which I have found that is also Apple approved for the iPhone (wears the Works with iPhone 3G badge). Airport ExpressI also have an Airport Express is take on the road, allowing me to connect this to wired Ethernet in various hotel rooms and use the internet wirelessly. |
Yes, my main computer is a Mac. Why? I administer a completely Mac environment at work (well, running Windows through Boot Camp) and grew quite fond of the Apple operating system and computer design. Mid-2008 I also attended the 
The home server primarily provides file and print sharing to the home network. The home server consists of a Mac Mini running Windows XP SP3 natively through Apple Boot Camp. The Mac Mini server does not have Mac OS X installed, as all the services I need to share are Windows-based services. Why a Mac Mini you ask? I sleep about 4 metres away from the computer, and the Mac Mini is practically silent (so I can leave it running 24×7 without it keeping me awake). It is also very nice and compact, sitting on the back of my desk away from everything…just doing its thing!
The MacBook is not mine, it belongs to work. However, I only really travel for work so I take the MacBook with me on the road. The furthest the MacBook has travelled (to date) was to San Francisco in June 2008 for the Apple Worldwide Developers Conference.
The iPhone would have to have been one of my best (and most anticipated) purchases. Having email and internet access on the road, combined with some great apps, makes this a must have gadget. I have used other smartphones, and this one takes the cake in my opinion.
