Many welcomes to the August issue of PC Update Magazine: still the number one PC user group related magazine in town, or at least we like to think so. With the end of winter in sight, I hope that everyone has managed to avoid the usual cold-weather inconveniences, particularly the flu, of both seasonal and swine varieties. Few things are more frustrating than being laid up in bed for a week when there is work to be done, I can assure you from recent experience.

I was privileged to attend the July meeting in the imposing surrounds of the University of Melbourne, which felt like a gargantuan ghost town in the absence of its students. The meeting itself was enjoyable and it is always a pleasure to meet members and get your ideas for the magazine.

This issue will boldly go where no PC user group magazine would (usually) dare to go, as Adam Turner jumps the fence to review the new MacBook Pro. Is the grass greener? You'll have to see what Adam has to say. In the wake of the netbook reviews from our June issue, Hari Raj takes a look at the rising tide of netbook PCs in our feature article, to see if they are a cheap alternative or simply cheap. Jo Cantiaca provides a how-to guide in mailbox management, and there are also software reviews and even a game review.

For any fans of The Incredible Machine, Fantastic Contraption will provide a touch of nostalgia. Despite the bare visuals, it is a game with real depth, and can rapidly consume hours of your life. Consider yourselves warned. George Skarbek provides his regular Q & A column, for all of those little problems that need fixing. As usual, all the regular MPCUG content is also included for your benefit.

As always, we hope you enjoy this issue of PC Update Magazine, and that you continue to support your group and the people that provide these fantastic facilities for you.

Happy reading.

Conor Ryan - Editor

Reprinted from the August 2009 issue of PC Update, the magazine of Melbourne PC User Group, Australia

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