Psystar your way to a cheap, non-Apple Mac

Darius Chang | Apr 15, 2008

It may not seem like world-breaking news at first, but US-based Psystar Corporation is bringing Mac OS X Leopard where no one has dared to go.

As we all know, the only way to get a Mac OS X system is by buying a machine from Apple. Though there are hackers who have succeeded in putting the operating system on non-Apple machines, it is not a task suitable for the layman. Psystar's Open Computer starts at US$399.99 and works with Mac OS X Leopard right out of the box. The cheapest desktop Mac mini starts at US$599 and is a lot less upgradeable.

The base configuration comes with a 2.2GHz Core 2 Duo processor, 2GB RAM, 250GB harddisk and integrated Intel GMA X3100 graphics. The unit is available in black or white, and can be upgraded with discrete graphics, faster processor, etc. Interestingly, Open Computer offers Nvidia discrete graphics, while the iMac is based solely on ATI's video technology.

The question is, are they legit? Mac OS X's End User License Agreement clearly states that the software is meant to run only on Apple machines. But instead of defending itself, the company told InformationWeek that it doesn't believe it's breaking any laws and will counter-sue Apple for violating US monopoly laws.

If Psystar is allowed to continue selling Open Computer, it will mark a new era where Apple no longer has total control over the hardware platform. If the Cupertino company sues, we get a nice show-and-tell on why Apple has been allowed to maintain a monopoly over its hardware and software business. We have contacted Apple for a response but, in the meantime, this is one issue we will certainly keep a close eye on.

Filed under: PC & Peripherals
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