As many of you know I use Mac's almost exclusively, I now only use my PC for 3D modeling and rendering because I know the modeling app I have on there pretty well. I don't use it that often but this week I have some rendering to do for a client and recently my PC has taken to randomly opening and closing one of the cd writers drawers all by itself - it is obviously possessed.

This morning I opened the case and unplugged the power and controller cable to the errant device - previous experience tells me I can't be bothered to spend half a day working out how to fix it (or most likely finding out I can't). Reboot the PC to see if it still works and run into a minor problem at the login screen (win 2000 btw) - USB mouse works but USB keyboard doesn't. Remember kids - it was a cd writer which I unplugged. Tried plugging the USB keyboard into the USB port which the mouse is working in - nope. Tried plugging the keyboard into 1st of the 2 free USB ports, no dice. Tried in the last free port and it worked! Type in username & password, machine finishes booting and presents the message 'Windows has finished installing new devices. You must restart your computer.' What new device did I install? I plugged the keyboard into a different port, I unplugged a cd drive - I never installed anything new. Fucking hate Microsoft.

p.s. - new stripped down mac available next month - small footprint, basic specs, BYOMKM (bring your own monitor, keyboard and mouse) - starting at £339 inc VAT but you will need more memory in it - worth checking out other retailers than the Apple Store as they may be cheaper (especially for memory) - try Jigsaw (Mac Mini not listed on Jigsaw yet as it isn't released until 22nd Jan)