I know this question has been asked before, but most of the existing threads are pretty dated and go back to the Virtual PC/pre-Intel processor days. So… is anyone out there successfully running the Computrainer software on a recent model Mac using Apple’s Bootcamp environment?
If so, what special tricks, knowledge or hardware did you need to make it work? Any issues with getting the software to recognize the CT itself via the USB ports?
(I’m curious about both the CT 3D software and Real Course Videos BTW)
I had the computrainer software running fine on a bootcamp installation on my mac. But decided that it was easier to just get a cheap PC to use as a dedicated CT box.
All in I spent probably $500 on a computer and 20" LCD for the CT.
I’m a total Mac geek. I originally thought I’d try to get my Mac to work with the CT when I got it - about 2 years ago. Did some research and concluded that it could be done but there were some headaches involved. Ended up just getting a cheap laptop at Best Buy. Works like a champ. No regrets at all.
Since then I’ve looked into it a few times again and it doesn’t really seem like its any better now. So, I’ll stick with the PC laptop.
I’ve been running mine for a few years off a MacBook pro. I run windows 7 in parallels software virtual machine. It runs as a window in osx it is not great but it works and I output to a 40 inch led tv with split screen tv and computrainer. Keeps me on the bike at least.
So, me being only mac intelligent, what type of cheap PC laptop would I need to run the CT software? I’m completely ignorant of all processors and commands on a PC, so it is really tough for me to determine what I need, and can afford. I’d love to pick up a cheap one on E-bay or whatever.
I have been using VirtualBox since before Sun bought the company. Oracle owns it now, but it is still free.
Create a Windows “guest” running inside of the OSX “host”.
This works flawlessly. VirtualBox can even expand to full screen. It is kind of disgusting when it looks like you are running Windows on the shiny Apple HW.
And the CT is connected via a Serial-to-USB adaptor to the Macs native USB port?
To those that asked, I already have the CT and already have the suggested “cheap, dedicated, PC” environment. Just sick of dealing with multiple computers in one small room.
GoldenCheetah works with Computrainers on a Mac, supports .erg .crs .mrc, spinscan, ergo mode, slope mode, video, streetview and good old workout view.
I’m not terribly PC literate as well. I simply bought a new one from Best Buy and spent about $350. It runs everything I need CT-wise. I initially tried the used eBay/Craigslist route but got confused trying to tell the difference in all the specs. Spent about $50 on a new one. I figured anything new would be spec’d decent enough to run the CT. Worked out fine.
Yes, VirtualBox can map the USB connection to the guest operating system.
The CT that I used is new enough to have a native USB connector. I see no reason why a Serial → USB connection would not also work. I have used those in the past with OS X for other purposes.