PearPC puts OSX on Windows

One more step towards consolidated browser testing?

[TGecho]

[zdnet.com.com...]

Though there's long been a relatively stable application for running Windows-based software on Apple hardware, using Mac-centric programs on Microsoft-minded machines has rarely been possible.

A duo of enthusiasts is attempting to buck that trend by launching an open-source program called PearPC that lets PCs built around chips from Intel and Advanced Micro Devices emulate a machine running the Mac's PowerPC chip.

The software can also run various flavors of Linux, though most of the interest has focused on its ability to run the Mac OS on a PC. Early testers say the software works but that it runs very slowly.

I've been debating whether or not to buy an old Mac for browser testing, but this may just be the ticket. Despite the low performance, it sounds adequate for running a browser long enough to check a few pages.

Has anyone tried it yet?

[txbakers]

That would be cool. As much as I love Macs, I don't want to spend $2000 just to have one to test Safari on.

[Llama]

Sounds alot easier than learning 'ghosting'

[vkaryl]

Interesting. I was also considering buying an older mac for testing. I CAN afford a fair amount of money for one, but if I didn't have to spend it for that, I'd be just as happy....