Simple Tech Questions Re Smart Card and S9

Greetings,

1. What is the rationale behind power cycling my machine? How often and how long do I need to disconnect my machine? (I am assuming unplugging the machine allows the machine to "power cycle").

2. At noon I noticed an unusual amount of condensation in the humidifier. At 3:00PM I noticed that the blue light in the humidifier was on and then a notice that I cannot remember - but something to the effect that there was a failure in the Climateline. I unplugged the machine and removed the hose. I could swear that I hit the power button this morning or else I would have noticed airflow escaping from my pillows. Later, I reattached the tubing and plugged the machine in and it works fine. I thought perhaps my cat, Gibson turned it on. He adamantly denies any such allegations and has an airtight alibi. Any ideas on why the humidifier was on and heated up? I have it set to 74 degrees.

3. I managed to commandeer my mom's Windows laptop ("I am a Mac") under the principles of compassionate use in order to run ResScan. Of course, I would prefer to run Windows on my Mac if I could find an original Windows XP w/SP2, but I don't want to shell out over $100 for an original copy. Two questions: Anyone know where I can get a workable copy of XP w/SP2 (or Vista) so I can install it using Boot Camp? Also, with respect to the SD card, do I have to erase it from time to time? If so, how do I do this using Windows?

Thank you very much for any and all feedback. Laurie