[bahamut]

I will buy a mac in Japan, but I want it change the OS to english version later,
Is it possible at all? if yes how can I do it? /forums/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/cool.gif

[Dr-NiKoN]

System Preferences -> International

[Praxis]

OS X has all languages built in... /forums/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif

[Arne]

But I still couldn't figure out why the Apple Store Japan sells a Japanese and an International version of Panther, Panther Family Pack and Panther & iLife.
Maybe it's just the initial start-up screen.. /forums/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/confused.gif
Cheers from Tokyo,
arne

[johnd0e]

Bought my last two macs (ibook, powerbook) in Japan and had no problems with the languages (except for those OS 9 cds which came with my ibook..they were Japanese only), although I don't understand Japanese at all.
Switching languages is as easy as described above (or, in case of a new installation: clicking the appropriate language...)

[Arne]

In reply to:

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ought my last two macs (ibook, powerbook) in Japan

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That's not entirely true. At least the PowerBook was bought by me in your name /forums/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif /forums/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif /forums/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif
Anyway, as far as I remember you installed Panther new on the PowerBook from CDs you already possessed, if I remember correctly. Did you ever try to do a Software Reset from the CDs delivered with the PowerBook?? /forums/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/confused.gif

[johnd0e]

Thanks for reminding me that you already (ab-)used my powerbook for long days before I could even see it
Didn't use Software Reset, but used the included OS X CDs to re-install it ..

[AKS9]

I think the only difference between a Japanese version and others will be the language on the box and the box's manual, also the pdf read-me file on the Install Disk. You can install lots of languages, it doesn't matter where you buy it. I got both Jaguar and Panther from spain, and have them installed 100% in English.

[bahamut]

Thanks everyone,
Gaijin like me, the most difficult thing is the language barrier.
Arne, I would like to ask you more about Keybord layout.
I found it was selectable within Apple website. Between US and Japanese
In Apple Store in Ginza
Please tell how can I ask them about this US keyboard in Japanese language?
Appreciate your answer.
Bahamut.

[Arne]

Bahamut,
Bummer! I was just yesterday at the Ginza Store to finally check out iPod mini and the new Apple Screens.... they are gorgeous! Really thinking about getting a G5 2Ghz and a 23" Screen.... If I would have known your question a bit earlier I could have asked (me stupid. I also could have asked why they are selling two versions of Mac OS X, but first I was excited to see iPod mini and the new screens, and then my girlfriend was complaining to see a movie ...)
Anyway, if you want to know if they have the things on stock you intend to buy, why not giving them a call?
To give you a little inside: I have a Titanium PowerBook 500Ghz with Japanese keyboard, and a wireless English keyboard from Apple. I have to say, I really prefer the Japanese design, especially the "@" is way easier to handle.
When do you intend to make your purchase? Since JohnD0e is coming over end of next week again and looking for an iPod as well, we otherwise could ask and clear it for you.
Cheers from Tokyo,
arne

[bahamut]

Thank you very much Arne,

I really don't know when will I buy this monster.
In fact I want to buy it like this very minute.
But I was just a "Ryuugakusei", so I need time to collect money for it.
It was a very warm welcome to know poeple like you. Appreciated it.
I was afraid of calling, though i know it was a bad habbit for a language student like myself. Japanese people are so fast speaker.

So I will find chance to go see it myself and ask them there.
If you are happen to go to the Ginza store again, ask about US keyboard layout for me, please?
I hate myself for being a chicken in term of Japanese language.
By the way, according to your Japanese Keyboard layout Ti500 mHz, I supposed you have been staying in Japan for many years, aren't you?
Regards

[JuneH]

I'm on my third Japanese Mac. If I remember correctly, you are given the option to select your keyboard when you go through the Setup. Personally, I use the Japanese keyboard and I really don't have any problems with it. There are a couple of extra keys to switch from English to Kana, but the other different keys are the non-alphabet keys.
Were you aware that you can order your system with an English keyboard if you order from the Apple Japan on-line store?

[Arne]

bahamut,
JuneH, actually brought me to the idea that we might misunderstand each other.
Even though him (or her?) & I are using a Japanese keyboard layout (hardware), you can set the system from the software side to actually "see" an English keyboard attached.
So, if you set in your system preferences -> international -> input menu to English (or American), the system will get only the Latin (Roman) letters of the keyboard (a Japanese keyboard has the Roman letters as well as the Hiragana printed on the keys).
Even if you "only" get a computer with Japanese keyboard, you still can use it normal, with the exception of some keys like "@". The @ on an English keyboard is above the "2", whereas on the Japanese keyboard it has an own key next to the "p". Also, the "shift lock" and the "control" swept places.
[indent]In reply to:

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By the way, according to your Japanese Keyboard layout Ti500 mHz, I supposed you have been staying in Japan for many years, aren't you?

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[/indent]
4,5 years and counting ;-). As I mentioned before, I really appreciate the Japanese keyboard, since the "@" is really convenience placed. But no matter which keyboard you chose, you will be able to extend your Japanese writing abilities very easily, since the Japanese Input Method Hiragana starts with Romanji and only after two letters exchanges those with the matching Hiragana, and enough Hiragana with possible Kanjis after pressing the space bar (sounds more complicated then it actually is).
Got me?
Cheers from Tokyo,
arne

[Arne]

JuneH,
Thanks for your post. You might have hinted to a general misunderstanding between bahamut and myself.
Cheers from Tokyo to the "south" ,
arne