Tip 1: Hardware

There are a lot of things that can affect how compatible your computer is with Mac OS X. Hopefully most of it will work to your advantage.

Common OS X-compatible Netbooks

Netbooks are only compatible if they have hardware similar to an Apple computer. Here is some of the compatible hardware you find in most common netbooks:

Since most of the work with netbooks on this site was first done on Dell Minis, they are the most compatible. Specifically, the Dell Mini 9, Vostro A90 and Mini 10v are the models which are focused on here. (The Vostro A90 is pretty much a repainted Mini 9.)

Some people get confused with model numbers. For instance, the Dell Mini 10 and 10v are two different models, the 10v is Mac compatible but the regular Mini 10 is not. The reason is because of a different graphics processor.

Bluetooth, WiFi and audio function usually, but primarily if they use similar chipsets to an Apple computer. This is why some Acer netbooks and newer wireless cards don't function as well. The Dell Minis have the greatest compatibility with factory hardware, so your best bet is with one of those models.

You can find a netbook compatibility chart at the NetbookInstaller Google Code wiki.

Compatible Accessories

Basically, if it works with Mac OS X it will work with your netbook. As long as your netbook has the required port (or wireless technology) it should work. For example, any USB device that works on an Apple computer will be able to function on your netbook with Mac OS X, such as external hard drives, keyboards, mice, even game controllers. If you have Bluetooth functioning properly on your netbook, you can use any Bluetooth mouse or keyboard that you would normally on an Apple Mac.

I want to stress the fact that it needs to be Mac-compatible. Even though your printer may work in Windows on your netbook, that does not mean that it will work on the same netbook running Mac OS X. Case in point: I have a Lexmark X2350 printer that works great with Windows, but I have no way to use it with OS X because a driver does not exist. Even though Lexmark makes OS X drivers for some models, this specific printer will not work. This is not a limitation of the netbook, it won't work on any Mac. So make sure that your accessories were meant for Mac OS X.

Also, external monitors are great. You will probably notice that your netbook doesn't have much screen to work with, and on a rare occassion some applications will not work without a bigger monitor. Mirroring (displaying the same image on both screens) isn't exactly perfect on netbooks, but desktop spanning (both monitors can display something different) works wonderfully and can increase your productivity.

I use a wireless Logitech keyboard and mouse combo with a 17-inch Dell monitor when I am at home, since this usually helps me work better. Don't be afraid to experiment around a bit with accessories.

mechdrew Tip 1 Version 1.00