Expert: LizaL - 11/21/2005

Question
This is a s/w and MAC OX 1.4.3 question.

I have old versions of three applications -PS 5.5, InDesign 1.0 and
Ilustrator 8.0. -loaded on my new imac G5, running in Classic mode
(9.0) of Tiger (OX 1.4.3). I want to buy the current upgrade version of
each application  vs. the entire full version. Adobe sells a single
product  upgrade from any old version of the referenced products.

I don't understand upgrades so I am concerned - is it necessary
for the new upgrade version to connect to the installed version to
operate? The installed version will only operate under Classic mode in
Tiger and the new upgrade will only operate under Tiger's  standard
mode . Do you know if this will make it necessary to purchase a full
version of the applications or will the upgrade function ?

I've tried Apple and they send me to Adobe.  Adobe says  not a
problem sent me back to Apple for confirmation.

I would  greatly appreciate your help.

Cynthia Lewis

Answer
Hi Cynthia,

This is tricky -- I can understand your dilemma completely. But what I'm thinking is that it would be fine for you to buy the new versions of the software and install them and let them run under Tiger itself (not Classic). However, before you go out and buy, let me add some things.

Typically, there is no need for the older versions to "connect" to the new. I understand that the old versions of your software run under Classic, but I think what is more important here is the serial number -- in other words, the fact that you paid for the software, and didn't bootleg it from another source.

What will happen, for instance, when you install Photoshop CS2, is that you'll be prompted in the beginning of the installation to do one of three things: locate your old copy of Photoshop on your hard drive, so its existence (and serial number) can be validated; or instead, manually enter the serial number of your new version; and I *think* the last option is to quit the installation (I haven't reinstalled Photoshop in a while! but I'm sure of the first two options, at least for Photoshop CS -- I haven't upgraded to CS2).

I honestly think the most important thing Adobe wants is validation of a serial number so if you have that, you'll be good to go. The software itself doesn't require Classic in order to function, so your having 10.4.3 is fine.

But that said, before you buy your software, you might do another thing. There are Apple retail stores all over the country now, and I'm not sure where you are, but if I were you I'd call the closest Apple retail store and ask one of their employees. Even if you have to make a long-distance call, that would be cheaper than making a mistake.

Here's a link to the list of Apple retail stores:
http://www.apple.com/retail/

I have never, ever had a bad experience at the Apple retail store, or gotten any kind of misinformation. When you talk to the guys who work there, you're getting the straight info from the horse's mouth. But what's best about this is I've called the Apple store closest to me before, and asked them questions -- without going in, without having to first pay for technical support -- and they've always answered them.

I can only vouch for the stores in my state, of course, and the ones I've visited, but I do know that Apple doesn't just hire anybody. The people who work there are really Mac users, and the ones I've talked to have been using a Mac just as long as I have (except the ones who are in their 20s, LOL!).

Anyway, long story short, I think you'd be fine to purchase the upgrades and use your existing serial numbers. But before you spend the money, please call the Apple store and see what you can find out.

Lisa


P.S. It seems like I've seen a chart on the Adobe site that explains what you need in order to upgrade, with one of their products -- only I can't find the page now! If I run across it I'll post back with the link.

Also, the software boxes always list what you need for an upgrade, which might be of some help to you -- and a lot of PC stores nowadays have Apple software, in case you don't have an Apple retail store, or an authorized Apple reseller in your area.