So, I am a Mac user. Previously an art director, I was practically raised on a Mac. I can't imagine buying a pc, but if I have to I will. I am an interior design student and realize the merit in actually owning and operating an Auto CAD program. I have two questions, maybe more, anyway, here they are. 1: Which program should I buy? I can get an LT version for less than $500 and it's unlimited usage, not a student version that expires in 13 months. Or I can get the student version for less than $200 but am screwed in 13 months. Unless I don't like working in CAD in which case I saved money on something I'll never use again after this course I'm taking. Advice? And 2: I need to upgrade my computer no matter what. My Mac is a G4 and I need an Intel processor. Do I buy a new Mac mini for like $600 or $800 but it's still only 2 GHZ processor and it recommends (requires?) 2.2. Or do I have to spend mucho dinero and get that 2.2 GHZ processor. In which case, do I shell out the big bucks for another Mac or a PC ( I think the Mac would end up being more expensive, but I would not longer have to buy Parallels). Of course I would still want to keep my old Mac as I have tons of graphics software that I use regularly, plus I just love Mac.

Please please please offer any and all guidance. It's too expensive a decision to be making mistakes on. Thanks!

I would seriously look in to what the limitations are with LT. Compare hereI'm afraid that LT won't allow you to do the rendering and graphics that you would need.  Most of the student versions allow you to upgrade your license when the software expires. As far as the PC vs. Mac. I've never used a Mac, but with AutoCAD you gan never have too much RAM or video. Especially when you are working with textures and 3D objects. I guess the question is, what are  you using AutoCAD for? Is it going to be just floor plan layouts and designs, or will you be taking advantage of the rendering capabilities?Hope that helps.~C