Windows 7 seems lighter, faster and cleaner. It has breathed new life into my aging computers.

First Impressions

Microsoft has done a good job of simply refining Vista. At first, I was disappointed that Windows 7 is so much like Vista. After upgrading 2 computers and working with the operating system, I am glad Microsoft didn’t start from scratch.

Compatibility

As an early adopter of Vista, I dealt with software and hardware compatibility issues. This was frustrating and costly as many programs and peripherals had to be replaced.

Fortunately, everything that worked on my Vista computers is compatible on Windows 7.

Learning Curve

The learning curve is not nearly as steep, as well. When adopting Vista, there was a noticeable decrease in productivity as I learned how to do things the “Vista way”.

After completing the installation of Windows 7, I jumped right in. Nothing slowing me down. Only new features to learn over time.

Installation

I have suffered through upgrading every version of Windows since Windows 3.11 in 1994. Never has a Windows upgrade been so simple.

Upgrading from Vista to Windows 7 is a breeze. Launch the disc, follow the prompts and you are up and running. The installation can be time consuming (4-5 hours for each of my computers), but the process is very straight forward and simple enough to complete.

If you are upgrading from XP and switching from 32-bit Vista to 64-bit Vista, the process is a bit more complex. You will need to wipe your hard drive clean and start from scratch. This is a very long process as you have to reinstall on programs and device drivers. This may be a task best suited for a professional.

Installation Tips

The installation is simple, but there are a few tips that will make for a smooth upgrade.

• Run the Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor to identify if any of programs or hardware isn’t Windows 7 compatible. Address any issues it uncovers.
• Back up your data twice in 2 different locations. The Vista to 7 upgrade shouldn’t cause data loss, but better-safe-than-sorry.
• Unplug all peripherals over than your keyboard and mouse. You can plug those webcams other USB devices after the installation is complete.
• Temporarily disable your anti-virus program.
• De-authorize your computer from within iTunes. You can authorize it again after installing Windows 7.
• During the initial installation procedure, another Windows 7 compatibility test will happen. This one is more detailed than the Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor. If any issues are listed, quit the installation process, address the issues and start the upgrade again. This usually means removing a program or two.

After the Installation

Once Windows 7 is installed, there are a few activities to perform to ensure that your computer is running at its best.

• Run Windows Update to get any patches or updated drivers.
• Check for hardware driver updates on the manufacturer’s website. Many Windows 7 drivers are already available. If Windows 7 specific drivers aren’t out, the most up-to-date Vista drivers should work.
• Check for software updates. Depending on the program, updates can be found either from within the program or on the manufacturer’s website.
• Go to Microsoft’s website to download free add-ons like the Windows Live Movie Maker or desktop themes.

Overall, Windows 7 is a huge improvement over Vista. Any real estate agent running Vista shouldn’t even hesitate to purchase an upgrade disc. This technology is that good.

Those still working on 2001’s Windows XP, now might be the right time to invest in a new computer.

Check back for a more in-depth look at the best new features of Windows 7 and how they will benefit your real estate business.

We are now back to a time of great anticipation. Hopes that Microsoft will redeem itself with the release Windows 7 abound. Will Windows 7 be faster? Will it ask fewer annoying questions? Will it work with all of my current software and hardware? With the Windows 7 release coming October 22, all of our questions will be answered soon enough.

Actually, I hope to answer some of these questions a bit sooner.

Windows 7 Launch Party

Not sure if by sheer luck or stupidity, I am hosting a Windows 7 Launch Party. It is an event that you hold in your home for friends to showcase the new Windows during the products launch week. You supply the food, drink and people; Microsoft provides streamers, cocktail napkins, activities and a copy of Windows 7 Ultimate for the host.

A lot of work to do to help Microsoft pitch a product, but I can’t pass up a techie experience. Plus, it gives me an excuse to throw a fondue and chocolate fountain party. Can’t have enough of those in your life.

Introduction to an Operating System

With my Windows 7 Launch Party Kit in hand, my first step will be to install the operating system.

I’m a bit apprehensive as to what the next few days hold. Will the installation go smoothly? Will all of my hard ware be compatible? Will my software work properly?

Then, once it’s installed how quickly will I acclimate to the new system? After I got Vista, it took awhile before I knew my way around and was as proficient as I was on XP.

Stay Tuned

With a pre-release of Windows 7 in hand, this presents a unique opportunity to share with our MyTechOpinion readership. As I progress in my adoption of Windows 7, I’ll document my trials and tribulations on our blog.

Hopefully, the information shared will help you in your adoption of Windows 7 (or maybe help you decide not to switch).

Wish me luck in my upgrade and check back to see how it went.

This year’s MTO Holiday Gift List is as diverse as our readers…we hope! Chad, Reggie and I usually share our top real estate technology gift picks. This year is more of the same but infused with our individual flavor. So here are some of our best holiday gift suggestions for your 2008 holidays!

Gifts Under $50
	Chad’s Pick: Bluetooth Micro Adapter – Use your cell phone’s Bluetooth headset with your computer. Once connected, Skype, Google Talk or Oovoo calls are completely wireless.
	NikNik’s Pick: Coffee Cup Power Inverter – Of course Starbucks is a great gift for this gal, but this is not your average cup of Joe. This 200 Watt Inverter sports 2 AC plugs and a USB port, will fit in standard cup holders and power 3 devices at once!
	Reggie’s Pick: Target Gift Card Camera w/ 40 Free Prints – It’s Target Gift Card with a technical twist. The twist being the card is actually a 1.2 megapixel digital camera. You can load $50-$1000 worth of Target shopping on these cards that never expire.
Gifts Under $100
	Chad’s Pick: The new Microsoft Explorer Mouse – A decade ago, the Microsoft Explorer mouse was all the rage. It is back and can now work on carpet, glass or wood! How sweet is that?
	NikNik’s Pick: Fastmac Extended Battery & Portable Charger for the iPhone! Give the gift of longer talk and play time, 750 hours of standby, built-in flash, and portable charging. This one is a no-brainer when you can find it in stock, so if you run into an issue also check Mophie.com.
	Reggie’s Pick: Novo Minoru Webcam, the world’s first 3D Webcam that is compatible with msn, Skype, YouTube, etc. The only catch is that it’s not available until December 19th, but you can set a reminder for yourself right on the Novo site so you can be one of the first to purchase!
Gifts Under $200
	Chad’s Pick: LINKSYS WRT610N wireless router. This router transmits both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz signals simultaneously. This means that older 208.11B and G devices won’t slow down your newer 802.11N devices.
	NikNik’s Pick: FreeAgent Go is the best portable storage solution coupled with the first ever hard drive docking station. You can even coordinate this tech gear with your office or favorite suit, as it comes in 10 delicious colors (pink too!).
	Reggie’s Pick: Eco Media Play Revolution is an environmentally friendly media player powered by you winding the handle and will reward you with 24-bit Hi Fidelity playback of all major music formats.  This is a great backup device when you don’t have batteries handy.
Worth Every Penny!
Chad’s Wish List: (1) Bose Portable SoundDock for your iPod, (2) Epson Artisan 800 all-in-one with touchscreen or (3) Acer Aspire One mini notebook.
NikNik’s Wish List: (1) Custom Flip Mino HD, (2) iBikeConsole (so I can dance while riding) and it would be even better if accompanied by (3) the Cervelo P3 -2009 (I just need a sponsor now for my first triathlon).
Reggie’s Wish List: (1) SlingCatcher as a universal media player for TV, (2) SONOS w/ iPhone Control provides great sound throughout the house and (3) Archos 5 Internet Media Tablet as an Internet Media Tablet. (You thought I was going to say iPhone didn’t you.)
Giving Back

If these suggestions don’t meet your receiver criteria, then perhaps you should consider making a donation. There’s a reason why you are seeing people asking for donations everywhere this season. Give a gift that helps others in need. If you’ve ever been stuck with purchasing a gift for a group of people with a small budget and didn’t just want to get them something they may or may not consume or re-gift to others, then you know what I mean. So why not make those small gifts be small donations (= 1 large donation) to the charity of your choice. For example, every $20 donation made at foodbanknyc.com translates into 100 meals! Epic Change is a Website that connects real people with real stories and work toward positive change.  What local charity needs your help this season?

Gifts are fun and I’m always thankful for what I receive. But this economy provides a heartfelt reminder that we are lucky to have what we have. Many of our friends and colleagues have lost their jobs, their homes, and loved ones this year. This girl usually won’t say no to a new pair of shoes or matching bag, but this season I’m happiest to just hold tight to what I have…my family, friends, and loyal MTO readers!