Can You Run Mac OS on a PC?
For years, Mac enthusiasts with a PC have wanted to run the Mac OS on a PC to get the best of both worlds. Thanks to a volunteer community and some computer ingenuity, PC's now have a way to run the Mac OS.
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History
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Workarounds to allow the Mac OS on a PC started appearing in 2005 thanks to special copies of the Mac OS intercepted from the Apple Developer Connection.
Types
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A "hacked" version of the Mac OS, coined "OSx86" can run on a PC without any tweaks, but users may only find this on file-sharing networks such as BitTorrent. Alternatively, several pieces of software are available that can emulate the Mac OS on a PC.
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Function
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In order to install Mac OS on a PC, the user will need to known the complete details of their hardware; most emulators will not automatically recognize hardware. Also, the Mac OS needs a hard drive partition and installation of the ISO image from a DVD disc.
Benefits
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As of 2010, Apple has repeatedly stated that they will never release the Mac OS for PC-based hardware. This leaves those who want to use the Mac on a PC or those who cannot afford Apple hardware to use this trick.
Tips
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PC owners contemplating putting Mac OS on a PC should read over the installation guides on OSx86Project.org--the website dedicated to getting Mac on Intel machines. Mac OS does not work with every PC configuration.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of m.caimary