OT Poll: What computer platform do you use? - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

BabyBlueBenz · #1 02-26-2009, 10:50 PM

Triggered by my inability to use MB's EPCnet Online resource at http://epc.startekinfo.com/epc/, I searched the forum and found that others are unable to enjoy this beneficial (and free) service: startek EPC on mac??

In an effort to let MB know that the non-Windows-using segment of vehicle owners would like equal access, I'd like to poll those willing here and learn what operating systems are being used by our forum members.

If you're bored, let MB know how wrong it is of them not to support users of computers not running Megalomaniasoft's Windows: https://epc.startekinfo.com/epc/contactus.jsp

Thanks for your input.

JonL · #2 02-27-2009, 12:55 AM

I would use my Mac for EPC access, but of course we know that it doesn't work. I have to use my Win2k machine at work. My W201 FSM PDF works fine on my Mac and my W2K machine.

winecountryone · #3 02-27-2009, 01:28 AM

I don't use the afformentioned service,and probably wouldn't even if I had a windows machine.It's a shame that a large company like MB hasn't made this info more cross platform compatible though.
I have messed around with every variation of windows from 3.1 through XP.I have never been happier since going to a MAC running OSX.I finally have a machine that "works" the way I always wanted!

Dee8go · #4 02-27-2009, 08:14 AM

Wow, it's neck and neck, Windows and Macs. I will be using a Mac the next time I buy a computer. I'm surprised there are no Linux users who have responded thus far.

dlevitt · #5 02-27-2009, 10:03 AM

You have to put some specific effort into developing a Java program that is not cross platform. The saying is 'never attribute to malice what can be explained by stupidity' but I would not exclude either source for the problem.

RadioTek · #6 02-27-2009, 06:10 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dee8go

Wow, it's neck and neck, Windows and Macs. I will be using a Mac the next time I buy a computer. I'm surprised there are no Linux users who have responded thus far.

Here you go.

It just took me a while since my day job got "interesting" for a few days. One day I'm in downtown Yuma and the next I'm in a snow-cat going up a mountain near Flagstaff. Literally.

rowdie · #7 02-28-2009, 10:09 AM

I don't use the afformentioned service,and probably wouldn't even if I had a windows machine

winecountry. Why would you not use it? I have not used it before. What are the pros and cons before I try it?

Dee8go · #8 02-28-2009, 11:17 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by rowdie

I don't use the afformentioned service,and probably wouldn't even if I had a windows machine

winecountry. Why would you not use it? I have not used it before. What are the pros and cons before I try it?

Say what?

rowdie · #9 02-28-2009, 04:41 PM

Sorry, I didn't make that very clear. I had not heard of the site so wanted to know if it was worth looking at.

BabyBlueBenz · #10 02-28-2009, 05:54 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by rowdie

Sorry, I didn't make that very clear. I had not heard of the site so wanted to know if it was worth looking at.

I would like very much to use the EPCnet site to look up the part number for the large hose clamp that binds the Air Guide (some call it a boot) to the Throttle Body. No parts sites that I've visited offer the thing, and I have been unable to find mention of it in this and other forums. I would like to know the proper name for it also, as that would help me find a replacement. Plan B is to attempt to repair my broken clamp. Plan C is to try and use a generic screw-type hose clamp and hope I can tighten the thing with something in my tool chest.

Who wouldn't want a free parts reference provided by Mercedes?

RC4U12 · #11 02-28-2009, 06:31 PM

Ok its Ubunto..i have ordered the Dell mini 9 " for tuning my car Mega-Squirt computeron '74 450slc..and will use it for general surf also..Jeff

Bob Weir · #12 02-28-2009, 08:12 PM

The survey will probably get more responses with the topic located here...

ShopForum > Do It Yourself Links & Resources > General Information
Legal EPC and WIS Software
Legal EPC and WIS Software

When you launch EPC, you'll see a familiar name "Snap-On". For more info go here
http://www.activewebservices.com/usa_mercedes.htm

My guess is MB is using Snap-On Business Solutions for EPC parts catalog. Therefore, I suggest comments to Snap-On regarding the accessibility by Mac & UNIX operating systems.

When I see "IE" recommended, I'm not surprised to have problems when using a Mac since M$ discontinued IE upgrades for Mac years ago. Conversely, when "Firefox" is recommended, there rarely is a problem. Mac users have always realized they will have software limitations. Fortunatly, there are a number of software emulators on OSX w Intel for Windoz applications.

Bob
On a Mac since 1988.

View Poll Results: What computer platform do you use (for MB related activities)?
Windows	18	56.25%
Mac OS	11	34.38%
Linux	3	9.38%
UNIX (non-Linux variant)	0	0%
Other	0	0%
Voters: 32. You may not vote on this poll