I recently purchased a MacBook with the intention of purchasing Parallels. However, I stopped the installation process when the screen asked me to insert a Windows CD; I have never had one. My vendor gives us a price of $309 for the Windows XP box. Since the cost of Windows is now an issue, I am wondering if other Mac users have found a more reasonable cost.
Try a local used computer store--they might have a brand-new, shrink-wrapped "OEM" version 2002. These are sold with systems they put together but they will undoubtedly sell you one by itself. Used Computers in Berkeley, Calif. has them for $179 (Pro) and $119 (Home). The only drawbacks are that they are not SP2 (but it will take you only about half an hour to download and install the 65 or so updates) and they don't come with MS support, which you probably won't need anyway. You can also find OEM versions on Craigslist for even less ($40–$70) and these are might be a great bargain--it just depends on whether you trust the seller or not. David
I should have added that it depends on how much you trust the seller to be giving you a brand-new, registrable and not-stolen version. David
