Right i have recording software like cubase (just as an example) and im soon to buy an Apple pc. Now i got my very important files on my EXTERNAL hard drive (formatted for XP windows), on it contains many songs and many softwares of recording etc.
 
Now i want to be able to get the files from my Windows XP to my new IMAC. So i got it on both pcs. I assume the music is easy enough as both read mp3. but my external hard drive would not be regocnised by apple as its formatted for XP. So how to i get the files off external hard drive on my XP to ship it over to apple imac. I dont know if the software would work mind.. as i think softwares are designed for specific O.S? But if theres a way apple can read PROGRAMS that i have on XP once transported accross that would be great. Its complex i know but im desperate here!  
 
Maybe a network is possible between the two OPERATING systems ?YES, a network is possible, no, it will never read a microsoft specific formatting, and macintosh computer is NOT cinsidered a PC.