I know Windows Vista is not exactly news (it came out eleven days ago if you didn't notice), but I did come across something that is.? It is an opportunity for you to test drive Windows Vista to try out some of the new features and get a feel for the "new" (insert some sarcasm here) interface.? You can test drive it at:

http://vistatestdrive.com

For some of us (like me), it will be the only way for me to try it until I get a new laptop.? Mine doesn't quite meet the system requirements.? Sigh.? Guess I will have to start convincing the wife.... what a great valentines day present!

Marc

Have you ever wished that you could bring more than one computer on your trip?  Maybe you use windows to do your work, but on your downtime you like playing a game that only works in windows 98.   Maybe you still even use DOS from time to time, but it doesn't make sense to install it on your laptop.  How about that website you are working on, wouldn't it be handy to bring along a linux server so that you don't have to depend on having an internet connection?   I have the solution for you, and you should try it.

I don't know if you've heard about virtualization software, but there have been numerous articles in papers and on websites lately.  It is not a new invention (I have been using it since 2002 - and it has been around before that!), but it allows you to better use your computers resources by "splitting" it into a number of virtual machines that behave just like an actual computer - but don't require a wall outlet.  This technology can allow you to bring along as many computers as you'd like - depending on the speed of your processor, the amount of RAM you have and the hard drive space you have.  Check this screenshot as an example:

This not only saves you power, but gives you the versatility of the different operating systems at your fingertips.  Also, for testing purposes, it is safer, because the virtual machine is a closed system, therefore, you don't screw up your own computer.

I would suggest giving virtualization a try - it has worked very well for me over the years (and saved me money on power), and it is now available for free.  The products available to try are:

1.  Microsoft Virtual PC

This product comes in two flavours: one for the Mac and one for Windows.  They are currently in the beta testing stages for the 2007 version which you can try out for free.  This product is the one I use and I have been very happy with it.

2.  VMWare Server

A very good offering.  They have this free version, and paid versions up to enterprise level virtualization.  Very highly recommended.

3.  Parallels Workstation

I just recently read alot of reviews on this product and it seems that it is good.  I haven't taken much time to try it out but it seems ok.  The catch is there is only a paid version.

I can get eight virtual machines on 2 GB of RAM.  That would make nine computers (eight virtual and one real) that can fit in a laptop bag - let me know how it works out for you!