Windows XP sources
 

I use a Mac for everything except one thing. My data logger's software only works on Windows. So I bought a second-hand laptop to use with it, and it's a pain in the neck. It's hard drive is too small to accomodate video (which my data logger can overlay) and the thing won't recognize my printer.

My Intel-based Mac can run Windows, I learned. But I need a copy of Windows to install on it. At a quick glance, it looks like I'm staring at $200 or so for the software. On Ebay, it looks like I can get it for about $80. It's a pain to pay for an operating system I'll hardly ever use, but there you go.

My questions:

Is there a cheaper source for Windows, out there? I need Windows XP, SP2 or later.

And while I have Windows' guys ears: what's the command to take a screen snapshot in Windows?

Alt PrtScr will save a copy of the screen to the clipboard. Then go to paint & paste.

You'll need the full pro copy, not an upgrade. Cheapest way is to have a student buy it from their university/college bookstore - they typically have all the MS suff cheap.

To take a screen cap, hit the print screen button on your keyboard, open some sort of image program (paint works, its on the start menu under accessories) and then click "edit" and then "paste" as if you had copied an image from somewhere.

I'd offer to send you an Ubuntu disc, but I doubt your logger app would work with WINE

Only because I know everyone here wants to be legal. . . :D

Academic software used on a non-student PC is illegal, as is all the pirated stuff you see on the Internet. As id10t says, get a full copy. Expect to pay $250 - $300. PITA, yes.

Now the alternative is to run ProduKey and retrieve the key from your notebook. If it was a full copy then you have everything you need.

If you are a student you can get student prices for software online at journeyed.com.

Also Alt-PrtScn copies the current window to the clipboard. Ctl-Alt-PrtScn copies your entire screen to the clipboard.

I don't know why you would need XP Professional, XP Home should do it for you. Either way, you can get a complete version (not an upgrade) of either one from Newegg.

XP Professional about $140

XP Home about $90

Thanks, guys. I bit the bullet on the $90 Home version.