Now on version 7, Microsoft's Virtual PC is an emulator that allows you to use Windows software on a Mac. It runs programs more slowly than a real PC would, but it's still handy for Mac users who occasionally need to use a specific Windows application.

The most important aspect of this new version is that it's now compatible with the new G5 processors in the latest PowerMac and iMac computers. There's also a new wizard that makes the initial setup and configuration simpler for first-time users, and a new printing option makes it easier to print documents from a Windows program on a Mac printer.

Microsoft has also fine-tuned the program's performance to make it run more smoothly. You'll need that extra performance though, as Virtual PC no longer works with Windows 98. Our review copy came with Windows XP Pro installed, which needs a fair bit more processor power to run smoothly under emulation. We'd recommend a Mac with at least 1GHz processor in order to run Virtual PC now.

The Windows XP Professional version of Virtual PC is pretty expensive at £229. However, there is also a version with XP Home (£199), and a Windows 2000 version that costs £139 (the same as Version 6 with Windows 98). Owners of G4 Macs can stick with Version 6 for a while longer, but Virtual PC 7 can be recommended to owners of G5 machines who need Windows compatibility.

Prices: £229 (£194.90 ex VAT) XP Pro; £199 (£169.36 ex VAT) XP Home; £139 (£118.30 ex VAT) 2000; Upgrade from v6 £99 (£84.25 ex VAT)

Contact:: Microsoft 0870 60 10 100
www.mactopia.com

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