Book Description
* This comprehensive one-stop guide offers nearly 1,000 pages of in-depth information on the latest Mac OS X version, including tips, secrets, and detailed how-to instructions
* Provides expert guidance on all of Leopard's new features, including the pro-level security tools and brand-new built-in applications
* Offers greatly enhanced coverage of Dashboard, Automator, wireless networking, and troubleshooting
* Topics covered include customizing the desktop, working with the Dock, searching with Finder, getting on the Internet, searching with Sherlock, using Apple Mail and iChat, synching with iSync, getting the most out of the iLife applications, setting up Leopard on a network, and tapping the power of Mac Unix
* There are currently more than 19 million Mac OS X users, and Apple shipped over 1.3 million Macs in the last quarter ... Read more

Book Description
This comprehensive, technical reference guide provides in-depthinformation on Apple technical architecture. It will teach the readerhow to install and configure machines; architect and maintain networks;enable, customize, tune and troubleshoot a wide range of services; andintegrate Mac OS X, Mac OS X Server, and other Apple technologieswithin a networked environment. Following the learning objectives ofthe Apple Certified System Administrator exam, this book is a perfectsupplement to Apple's own training class and a in-depth technicalreference for existing system administrators and engineers. ... Read more

Book Description
* The perfect companion to help cut through the clutter and get started with Apple's powerful new operating system, Mac OS X
* Helps users quickly get up to speed with Mac OS X and the many powerful software applications included with the operating system
* Covers key features such as using classic mode, personalizing the desktop, getting on the
* Internet, using Apple Mail, and going digital with iTunes, iPhoto, iMovie, iDVD, and Apple DVD
* Combines the following eight minibooks into one reference: Introducing Mac OS X, Customizing OS X, The Digital Hub, The Internet, Networking, Expanding Your System, AppleWorks, and Advanced Mac OS X ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

Mucho helpful
Really helped me get into OS X after I changed to a new Mac G5 from a iMac G3 which only had OS 9.

Nice book for those just starting with a new Mac.
My wife's Win 98 PC finally pissed her off so much she wanted something new and we decided on an eMac.She had never used an Apple computer and I hadn't since about 1990 so it wasn't something we approached lightly.I did the reseach and made sure that both an Apple and the eMac were the right choice for her.This book was part ofthe research.It was a solid resource for beginners but not the best book ever written.Some things were not covered as well as I would have hoped (I fit into the power user category), but it was fine enough for my wife.All in all I'd say it's a nice starter but not your only option.Regardless, definately get a Mac and if you're switching from a PC definately consider getting a good reference to hold your hand for the first few days (you'll likely never touch it after a week of use, Macs really are as good as they say).Only word of warning against this book is that it was written for Mac OS 10.2 which has been replaced by 10.3.Most of the data and how to's are the same but it isn't always as accurate as you would like when you are needing it.

Marginal at best
I have read many of the for Dummies books and for the most part I have found them to be well organized with relevant information at your fingertips. Alas, this book is not one of those. The author attempts to keep things cute and lively with all sorts of little catch phrases and other humorless items (can you say bob saggett) but it really just confuses and annoys. Several times I have turned to this book searching for a quick explanation on how to do something and found it nearly impossible to find. The index and appendix are not particularly helpful and many of the descriptions give you just enough information to get into trouble. While most of the "for Dummies" series are extremely helpful, this one is not one of them.

Gotta have this one
This book is perfect for every Mac owner who wants guidance with the Mac's Jaguar OS. The authors keep things light, even entertaining and there's nothing missing. Check out the index pages and you'll see what I mean.

Make sure you try out the tips, they're the best part of the book!

Best Jaguar book I've read
I think this book will answer the questions and dole out the tips that anyone needs when they first run Jaguar. Read it from end to end like I did and the gurus might even learn a thing or 2. At last I am enjoying the iLife programs that I got with my system and things are running just like I like them in preferences. Invest the time to read it all and you'll appreciate this book like I do. ... Read more

Book Description
Beneath Mac OS X Tiger's easy-to-use Aqua interface lies a powerful Unix engine. Mac users know that Unix is at their fingertips, if only they knew how to access it. Learning Unix for Mac OS X Tiger provides Mac users with a user-friendly tour of the Unix world concealed beneath Mac OS X's hood and shows how to make the most use of the command-line tools. Thoroughly revised and updated for Mac OS X Tiger, this new edition introduces Mac users to the Terminal application and shows you how to navigate the command interface, explore hundreds of Unix applications that come with the Mac, and, most importantly, how to take advantage of both the Mac and Unix interfaces.Readers will learn how to:

• Launch and configure the Terminal application
• Customize the shell environment
• Manage files and directories
• Search with Spotlight from the command line
• Edit and create text files with vi and Pico
• Perform remote logins
• Access internet functions, and much more

Customer Reviews (20)

Very good introduction to Unix
A small amount of background.I started out using Dos 3.0 - and have always used Microsoft products.Up until about the year 2000 when I got a job as a computer tech as a high school that used alot of Macs.I learned to love the Mac almost overnight and haven't purchased a PC since.When OS X came out I was apprehensive about the shell.I knew DOS like the back of my hand, but I didn't know ANY unix commands and really wanted to learn.The unix books I ordered all seemed to be more advanced or for ABSOLUTE beginners.This book is more like the books on DOS I remember, showing you step by step how to command the shell in Mac OS X, and since the shell is always the same in OS X (unless you customize it) you know this books' information will work.Now after reading this book, I'm going back to the more advanced Unix books and they are making much more sense to me - and the best part is I've been recently learning Linux (Ubuntu to be precise) and have had to troubleshoot a video card issue.Without having read this book, I would be totally lost!If you've got a Max with OS X and want to learn Unix this book is perfect!

An excellent book to know Unix basics
The book seems to me an excellent reference in order to introduce the reader in the language which supports Mac OS X. I think the interested user of Mac has, with this book, the opportunity to know something more than doing click on a series of windows. The author points out in his preface the existence of such projects as the Fink andDarwinPorts ones whose purpose is to develop free software for Mac. In my opinion, that's useful and valuable since not only the standard user of Mac does not know those projects, but also because being involved with this kind of software, the user is forced to learn something more than doing click on the appropriate window menus. The author explains concepts clearly so that the reader can understand them easily. Probably, the book is not intended to help the experienced user; I think that such a user is concerned with Unix, not Unix for operating systems based on it.

Good Overall Introduction
This book is easy to read and a good intro. to using Unix on the Mac, and the Terminal.It has enough information for most command line work, and will overwhelm you with some stuff that you are unlikely to use in other areas.

Just a taste of Unix on Mac
Get the Sobell Unix for Mac OC X Users...it's by far a superior value, and provides in-depth coverage...Dave Taylor's book just scratches the surface...I'm glad I took out from the Library first...read it in an hour and decided to get the Sobell text, you'll thank me later...Unix for Tiger is like the Cliffs notes edition for theComplete Works ofWilliam Shakespeare

Nice on concepts, poor on details
I had really high hopes for this book.I consider myself a pretty smart Mac tech, but Unix was the one thing that really scared me about OS X.To fix some esoteric problem, I'd have to follow some Unix recipe and it always annoyed me I didn't understand what I was typing.O'Relly books are well known not just for the animals on the cover, but excellent explanations of very technical concepts.

After reading Taylor's book, I felt better, but not by much.Most readers can easily understand the basic unix file structure commands, but towards the middle of the book he inaccurately assumed that his readers could also quickly understand some of the advanced concepts.Towards the end of the book I was left scratching my head.We went from move a file here and there to commands that were taking up multiple lines.Arrrgh!

The critical flaw in the book was a lack of exercises and real world examples.When I want to learn something, I don't just want to be told.Involve me and test my knowledge.Some of the more difficult concepts covered in the book would have been enhanced with numerous real world examples, each building on the other.Things moved way too fast and made it easy to get lost.

The book was an excellent overview of Unix for the Macintosh and perfect for someone to decide whether to pursue further learning."Introduction to Unix" instead of "Learning Unix" would have been a better title.After reading the book, I was reminded of speed dating where you meet 20 people for five minutes each and decide whether you want to go out with them or not.After reading the book I have enough familiarity with Unix that I can understand basic commands and how they relate to each other.I clearly want to go out on another date but any type of wedding bells are way in the distance.

PROS:Excellent overview of Unix for the Macintosh
CONS:Doesn't leave you with enough practical understanding

3 out of 5 dog cows ... Read more

Amazon.com
Whether you have inherited an older Macintosh or just bought a brand-new one, you'll get more from it with the assistance of Macs for Dummies. In addition to the fundamental information that has put generations of Mac users on the right track, this latest edition of a long-standing bestseller incorporates information about the newest Mac developments, including Mac OS 8.5 and the iMac.

On top of author David Pogue's coverage of the system itself and Mac hardware, Macs for Dummies shows you how to use all the most popular Mac application programs, including AppleWorks (also known as ClarisWorks) and Microsoft Office. There's also an excellent glossary that helps you figure out jargon you may encounter in manuals and on the Internet.

This book would be better if Pogue had included more about creating local area networks (LANs) for Macs--such networks are popping up in homes and small offices everywhere. Setting up Mac LANs is so easy, it seems unnecessary to relegate information about it to More Macs for Dummies, as Pogue and his publisher have done. But by itself, the information here is extremely valuable, especially for people totally new to computing. Macs for Dummies makes you feel welcome in the Mac community. --David WallBook Description
The Mac is famous for its user-friendliness. Maybe that’s why you bought one in the first place. But to make the most of all its marvelous capabilities, you’ll be glad to have an equally friendly resource to help you use it.

Written by the renowned New York Times technology columnist David Pogue, Macs For Dummies has long been the bestselling Mac book because it provides just what you need to know to get the best performance from your Mac. And like the Mac itself, this book is easy to use, with plain-English explanations and step-by-step instructions. The revised eighth edition covers

• Basics for beginners
• Setting up your printer
• Working with OS X
• Getting online and using e-mail
• Creating and saving documents
• Using iTunes, iPhoto, and iMovie
• What to do if things go wrong

Whether this is your first computer or you’ve just upgraded to OS X, you’ll find help when you need it in this handy guide. You’ll discover how to

• Set up your Mac, connect printers and other devices, and navigate the desktop and Dock
• Establish an account with an Internet service provider, set up e-mail, and start surfing the Web
• Use all the basic software programs and work with files
• Edit home movies with iMovie, download music and use iTunes, burn CDs and DVDs, and edit images with iPhoto
• Share your Mac or set up a home network
• Perform basic Mac maintenance, find and fix problems, upgrade your Mac, and more

With Macs For Dummies, 8^th Edition by your side, you’ll be prepared to take advantage of every exciting feature that Mac and OS X have to offer. Before you know it, you’ll be living the digital lifestyle, cruising the Internet like a pro, printing documents and photos—and even getting some work done!Download Description

• Significantly updated from its previous edition, this book examines key Mac features, including Mac basics, working with files, setting up a printer, getting on the Internet, using Apple Mail, getting started with iLife, connecting other devices to your Mac, troubleshooting, upgrading, and much more
• Apple’s hot selling Mac OS X operating system and its aggressive "switch" marketing campaign are rapidly driving up the Macintosh installed base
• Covers the latest version of Mac OS X and the new and improved iMac, iBook, Power Mac, and PowerBook machines, as well as AirPort Extreme, FireWire 800, the SuperDrive, and the iLife digital media suite
• Written by renowned author David Pogue, one of the most successful technology writers today and the author of a popular weekly column in the New York Times

Customer Reviews (17)

The Book for the Mac Virgin
This book is interesting, full of necessary information and written in a easy-to-read style, but it would benefit from having a better presentation, white paper, coloured pictures etc. (You see the difference when comparing it to Mac OS X Tiger Killer Tips.)

There is no better book for new mac users
This is a must-have book for all new Mac users and not only! Don`t waist your time by figuring out everything by yourself or calling up your friend everytime you have a problem - this book will solve most of them and even more. David Pogue is a great, funny writer who helps you make your life easier and love your computer even more !

A Common-Sense Book NOT Written for Dummies
David Pogue has a genius for making the seemingly-complex simple enough for the average person to understand. This is the perfect gift for a writer writing about the Macintosh system; once you get over your intimidation about computers by following Pogue's straightforward and sometimes humorous examples, the user-friendliness of the Mac makes itself obvious, and you're on your way. An excellent, useful book for beginner and seasoned user alike!

Well written, funny, and informative
I read this book a few years ago when I bought a used Mac Plus at a garage sale. Mr. Pogue put me on track with my old computer in a very short time. After a few few months, my relatives and friends were calling me for advice. In many cases I was able to help using what I learned in this book.

One extra with this book. David pogue is one funny writer. I really enjoyed the humor that went along with all the training.

I soon upgraded my computer. I Emailed the author to thank him and ask for some musical software advice. True to his word he took time to answer my questions. This impresses me that in today's world an author will make a commitment to help his readers past the point of sale of his book. Thanks Mr. Pogue! Great book!

It worked for me .....
The reason I bought this book was that I had been away from Macs since I unplugged my Mac IIcx and put it away.I recognized back then that unless I intended to work exclusively with Mac people, the PC competence was THE one I needed most.

Here in my small town, in the last few months I've had a number of requests for help from Mac people.The local Mac guy isn't getting rave reviews at the moment -- possibly because he has too much work -- so the requests for help that I've referred to him have been bouncing back to me.

Before I took any of these people's money, I wanted to make sure that (1) a computer is still a computer and (2) Macs had not totally morphed into something unrecognizable since I last used one.The book convinced me that the answer to (1) is "yes" and the answer to (2) is "no" (but OS X may change that).This book was a VERY fast read, and gave me those answers.

For me the most valuable part of this book were the two chapters on troubleshooting.They were well written, and certainly covered the range of Mac problems I remember from the IIcx. Time will tell if they cover the range of problems the Mac users here are having right now.

I'm trying to decide which book to read next:the O'Reilley book on Macs for PC people/PCs for Mac people, or the Dummies series book on upgrading and fixing Macs. Obviously one (maybe both) will eventually be necessary.

For the person just starting out with a Mac -- or starting out with computers who is thinking about a Mac -- I think this book would be absolutely first rate. And the book seems to have done the job I required of it just about as painlessly as possible!

It gets five stars from me!! ... Read more

Book Description
At 2 inches high and 6-1/2 inches square and with a price tag under$500, Apple's Mac mini provides just what you've been looking for -- aviable, low-cost way to move to a Mac and its software without givingup all of your existing peripherals (keyboard, display, and mouse).Here to get you going is the definitive guide from award-winningtechnology writer David Coursey.

There's a lotinvolved in moving to a new OS--you have to transfer files, learnsoftware, and unravel a new interface -- but David helps you witheverything you need to get up to speed quickly. This book begins byexplaining why, where, and when to get a Mac mini before launching intoa thorough description of the Mac mini and its uses. David then showsyou how to do on your Mac mini all the things you've been doing on yourWindows machine -- and how to use all the great software that isavailable only for Macs. And finally, David gets into more advancedtopics such as troubleshooting your Mac mini and, for those who can’tgive up all of their PC-only applications, how to run Windows on it.

... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Just whatI needed
A great book, I love it. This is not an "All you need to know about the Mac" book.It provides simple clear guidence to the first time Mac user. I thought I knew a lot about Computers but the Mac had me stumped... this book really helped alot!

A must for "switchers"
This book is an absolute must for anyone that wants (like myself) give the Mac mini a try looking for a change from the tired PC platform. It will guide you trough avery aspect of, not only the hardware, but the OS X as well. It is a great and well illustrated guide. Well written and, I would say, targeted to the non initiated Mac would be user.
I truly recomend it as the basic guide to get into the Mac brave new world. ... Read more

Book Description
This 6 page, tri-fold, full-color, guide is an invaluable resource for anyone who uses Word 2004 for Mac!In a clear, user-friendly format, it provides step-by-step instructions, short cuts and tips on how to execute the basic commands of the software, as well as pointing out the NEW features of this version.Topics include:Using the Formatting Palette, Project Gallery, Format Painter, Scrapbook, Project Palette, and Navigation Pane; Using Find and Replace, AutoCorrect, AutoFormat, Reference Tools, and Document Views; Creating, Opening, Saving, Previewing, Printing, and E-mailing a Document; Formatting, Cutting, Copying, Pasting, and Aligning Text; Creating Tables, Columns, Headers, Footers, and Bulleted or Numbered Lists; Inserting the Date, Time, Symbols, Special Characters, Page Numbers, Clip Art, Pictures, and WordArt; Setting Paragraph Indents, Tab Stops, and Page Margins; Checking Spelling; and much more!An excellent instructional tool for the user new to Word 2004 for Mac, it also serves as a handy reference for the more experienced user ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Helpful especially if you are new to WORD
Helpful guide to the various functions of WORD 2004 for Mac.I found it not as thorough as I would have liked, but it was helpful, so I can't call the money wasted!At this price, just as a refresher to WORD users, it can come in handy!

Computer Reference Books
I received Microsoft Word 2004 Mac Quick Source Guide. Great! We love it. ... Read more

Book Description

Mac OS® X Leopard Phrasebook

Brian Tiemann

Essential Code and Commands

Mac OS X Leopard Phrasebook gives you the complete command phrases you need to take full advantage of the Leopard’s hidden and undocumented power underneath the graphical user interface: time-saving solutions for effectively working with files, folders, the Finder, Spotlight, text files, servers, disks, CDs/DVDs, permissions, printing, applications, Exposé, networking, security, and much more.

Concise and Accessible

Easy to carry and easy to use–lets you ditch all those bulky books for one portable pocket guide

Flexible and Functional

Packed with more than 100 complete command phrases–so you can make the most of Mac OS X Leopard in just about any situation

Brian Tiemann is a freelance technology columnist and software engineer who has spent more than a decade operating websites on servers running BSD, the technology underlying Mac OS X. A graduate of Caltech, Tiemann is the author of Mac OS X Tiger in a Snap and FreeBSD Unleashed.

Operating Systems / Mac OS X 10.5

Book Description
Solving Photoshop and related Mac hardware and software problems is a crucial and urgent need in a working environment when things can and do go wrong. Rod Wynne-Powell explains how the Mac operating system works and the pitfalls you are likely to fall into. He shows you how to get the best out of your system and improve efficiency. This is the only book on Macs specifically for photographers and digital image makers, written by a digital imaging consultant, trainer, photographer and Photoshop alpha tester who answers digital image makers' Mac queries every day. Wynne-Powell speaks the same language as photographers.

* The only Mac OS X book written by a photographer and digital imaging expert specifically for the digital imaging industry
* Invaluable tips on trouble-shooting and running software on a Mac, clearly explained with full colour images and screen-grabs
* Part of the Focal photography Digital Workflow series that teaches how to be more efficient, save time and create great images ... Read more

Book Description
The Mac command line offers a faster, easier way to accomplish many tasks. It's also the medium for many commands that aren't accessible using the GUI. The Mac OS X Command Line is a clear, concise, tutorial-style introduction to all the major functionality provided by the command line. It's also packed with information the experienced users need, including little-known shortcuts and several chapters devoted to advanced topics. This is a book to get you started, but also a book you won’t soon outgrow. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

This book is more for Unix novices
I found 2 chapters to be very useful, Chapter 12 on Working with Users, Groups and Permissions and Ch. 14 on Managing Programs and Processes.The remaining chapters are pretty much standard Unix commands; but, very well written for Unix novices.Overall the book is well written that I would use it as a Unix reference for commands that I am familiar with (example, didn't know ls -F would show me the directories with a slash).

It is really good book, pleasure to spend time with.
OS X UNIX is amazingly friendly and accessible. Some people who had never used command line before, type commands and work with the operating system directly as a "cool guys" in movies! This book is very helpful and well written and it is serves as a very nice reference. If you really need the initial training I would say that "UNIX Essentials" DVD I found here on Amazon is a nice option. It is complete UNIX course recorded and this book and a video they contribute one another greatly. You improve the reading and by reading you improve what you have seen.
The book is very particular about the subjects that related to OS X and because there are some differences between OS X and other UNIXes it is nice to have a book that deals with it.

Mostly good stuff
Structured in a distinctive but helpful way, "The Mac OS X Command Line: Unix Under the Hood" is quite a solid introduction to the command line, a mechanism that not only speeds and simplifies many tasks but also lets you do a number of things unavailable under the GUI. Its 400+ pages, arranged fundamentally as a tutorial, are replete with basic steps and shortcuts alike. The book covers everything from Terminal ("gateway" to the command line) to the file system to text editing and printing; in the later chapters, it moves on to such relatively advanced topics as file compression and archiving, groups and permissions, networking, program and process management, system maintenance, and shell configuration. Interleaved between the chapters (and here is where the book's structure is distinctive) are sections devoted to key Unix concepts that recur to the point of transcending multiple chapters; these nine sections, referred to as Interludes, tackle things like command syntax, pathnames, redirection, the "open" command (more powerful than it may sound), wildcards, and ways of automating commands.

Besides obviously providing a nice treatment of the basics, the book offers plenty of advanced material for the experienced user. The index is nice to see and easy to use. Other nice touches are a command list, chapter summaries in the introduction, and an appendix with additional readings.

Allowing for a variety of problem areas, in large measure evidently outside the author's control, this is a book well worth reading and using. It is true that some of the editing errors are thoroughly confusing (references to subsequent material as supposedly already presented, references to misidentified chapters, related graphics positioned out of logical order, and so on); still, the book is redeemed by the readily understood and applied, comprehensive, and mostly well-organized content.

Chuck Brandstater

Clear and easy to follow
As anyone who's used one of Kirk McElhearn's other books on the Mac OS will be unsurprised to hear, I found this book very easy to follow -- so easy in fact that I found I could skip the first few chapters. That's probably because I'm not a complete command-line virgin (I remember the days before Windows and the first Mac OS, and as a web designer I've done a bit of tinkering in Unix on some of the web servers I use) but even if you are, from my impression of the first chapters, this book can tell you everything you need to know to start using the command line.

The book is designed as a chapter-by-chapter tutorial, teaching you the things you need to know in a methodical order, but it contains enough information, and has a good enough index, to be used as your main reference for the command line once you've mastered the basics.

My only criticism would be that while it tells you how to do all sorts of useful things, it doesn't have enough real-world, detailed examples of the kind of uses you could put your new knowledge to -- I was expecting some kind of 'case studies' feature, giving real examples of how to use commands you've just learned to automate your back-up procedures, for example. The information's all in there, but to some extent you have to work out what you can do with it for yourself.

But I guess that's only a minor criticism -- you probably wouldn't read this book in the first place if you didn't have some idea of the kind of thing you can do with the command line.

So all in all, it's a great starting point, and I can see that in the future I'm going to find it a valuable reference. ... Read more

Book Description

You bought your Mac OS X Tiger computer because you thought it would be easy to use-and it is! But if you've never used a computer before, never stared at a graphical user interface or clicked an icon to launch a program or open a file, getting going with your new machine can still be a daunting proposition. With this guide from legendary author Scott Kelby, it doesn't have to be! Realizing there are still plenty of novice users just like yourself whose Macs represent their very first foray into personal computing, this guide provides a simple, practical approach guaranteed to get you sending email, going on the Internet, creating Word documents, and more immediately with Mac OS X Tiger. Focused lessons take you step-by-step through all of the tasks you're most eager to tackle with your Mac OS X Tiger machine (in the order you're likely to approach them): using the mouse, going on the Internet, sending email, initiating iChat sessions, creating address books and calendars, importing and sharing photos, making play lists and burning CDs, synching music with your iPod, launching and saving Word documents, using search (Spotlight), organizing files, and more.

Customer Reviews (2)

imac and Mac OS Leopard for Dummies
Highly recommend these books. Well worth the reading, and very helpful.Mac OS X Leopard For Dummies (For Dummies (Computer/Tech))Help because I are one.

10 Tutorials
10 step-by-step hands-on tutorials that cover most of the things a beginner needs to know. Kelby writes with wit and precision and a picture appears with every step. I highly recommend this book for beginners, but I would also suggest you buy a more complete reference book for Tiger (Pogue or Williams).
I give it only 4 stars for lessons it leaves out. He promises to show you how to quit an application, but he doesn't (perhaps to "taunt and ridicule" beginners). Shutting down the Mac is only covered in the PowerBook tutorial. The close window button isn't mentioned until p.122 with a window with a greyed out button. Minor flaws (buy with another book) in a great set of lessons. ... Read more

Book Description
Automator for Mac OS X 10.5 Leopard: Visual QuickStart Guideuses a combination of task-based instruction and strong visuals toteach Macintosh users how to automate repetitive, time-consuming taskswith the Automator application that is included with Mac OS X 10.5Leopard. Automator comes with many useful actions for lots of popularApple applications. Each action performs a single specific task, suchas removing an empty playlist from iTunes, or adding attachments to aMail message. The real power of Automator lies in mixing and matchingthese actions to perform exactly the job you need them to, in a stringof actions known as a workflow.

Author Ben Waldie introducesreaders to how Automator works, and then helps them assemble and useAutomator workflows. This book covers the major updates to Automatorthat are part of Mac OS X 10.5 (Leopard), including a variety of highlyanticipated features, such as recording, looping, and the use ofvariables within workflows. These features make Automator more flexibleand powerful than before, greatly increasing its appeal and interest toany Mac user looking to become more efficient.

Both beginningusers who want a thorough introduction to Automator and more advancedusers looking for a convenient reference will find what they need herein straightforward language, clear steps, and practical tips.
... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Bakari's MyMac.com Review
I've written in the past two years at least three separate how-to articles (here here and here about Apple's automation creation program, Automator. Since the program was introduced with Tiger, I've always looked for ways it can help me automate certain mundane tasks on my computer. Each morning, for example, I can come to my computer with five of my most frequented Web site feeds opened and ready for me to peruse. Thanks to an Automator workflow initiated by a daily iCal launch, I don't have to individually pull up those same Web sites each day in order to view them. Automator and iCal do the work for me. I have about eight other workflows like this that I use on a consistent basis.

Though I wish I were a skilled programmer, I couldn't create a bit of computer or software code to save my life. That's why Automator is a perfect program for those of us who would like to script actions on our computer but don't have the skills to do so. Automator is based on the type of select and drop features that you find in all of Apple's programs. However, I would not go so far as to say that Automator is an intuitive program for basic computer users. While my wife can put together a family newsletter using one of the Apple's Pages's template, she would be at a loss using Automator.

But for intermediate and power users of the the OS X system, Automator is very accessible. And finally, there's a introductory book about using the program that I've been wanting to see published for a while now. Not sure why it has taken Peachpit so long to publish a book about Automator, but it's great that it has.

Automator For Mac OS X 10.5 Leopard is part of Peachpit's Visual Quickstart Guide series. Books in this series provide you a nice straightforward introduction to software programs with plenty of examples, illustrations, tips, and recommendations for getting the most out of the programs that a book in the series covers. The author of this book, Ben Waldie, is president of Automated Workflows (www.automatedworkflows.com) which is one of four or five Automator sites that feature tutorials and sample workflows about Automator. He has "developed professional automated solutions for clients such as Adobe, Apple, CNN, and Microsoft." He has authored numerous articles about Automator and AppleScripting and has been a frequent presenter at Macworld Conference and Expo and other events.

Automator For Mac OS X 10.5 Leopard covers all the basics plus a little more. If you have never cracked open Automator, it would probably be a good idea to simply follow one of my tutorials. Have no fear, testing out and playing around with the program will not break or crash your computer. You might discover just how useful Automator and other similar programs can be in saving your time and stress. I won't say that every workflow you create won't have a glitch here and there, but as you keep refining the workflow, you will over time get some things done faster at your computer.

With latest version of Automator in Leopard, Apple includes what it calls a starting points screen to help you get going. However, if you never worked in Automator, I really don't see how the start up screen will help you. You first have to know what you want to do and what actions Automator can provide to help you do it. So it's best to select custom workflow in the start up screen and poke around and see what Automator has to offer.

Waldie's book is mostly a manual run down of the program. He breaks down each all the features and basic process for completing workflows. If you're a beginner in this program, the book might very well be useful. If you're an intermediate or advance user of Automator, I can't see Waldie's book being that useful to you. There are many articles and video tutorials on the Internet that will get you acquainted with Automator, so it's a bit of stretch to say that this book is necessary to learn how to get up and running with Automator.

Fortunately, Waldie's book covers the latest version of Automator, including how to use the much wanted Variable, Loop, Recording features. These features provide users more customization and greater control over workflows. He explains how to set up several workflows (including one that emails birthday birthday greetings, and another one that adds spotlight comments to photos) but sometimes it's not clear why a user would go to the trouble to create a few of the workflows he illustrates in the book. I say this because many of the actions that come installed with Automator are features used in the iLife programs themselves. For example, it would be pointless to create a workflow that simply opens up an application. That can be done manually or when you log in to your computer. However, it might be useful to have an application workflow that opens up two or three applications at the same time when you know you'll be using them together. You can also create another workflow that will close those same three applications at the same time. It sounds simple, but if you're doing something like this a lot, it can be definite time saver.

Waldie includes a list great sources and examples about using Automator with AppleScript and UNIX Commands. Being able to tie together the more advance actions of AppleScript with Automator enables you to create even better workflows. A recent example of this is a AppleScript command and Automator workflow that puts your Mac to sleep by sending an email to it. You can find out to easily do this by visiting Murphymac.com.

Automating and scripting programs may not be everyone's idea of having fun, but if you're using a computer on a regular basis and you're not finding ways to automate your tasks, then you're probably frustrated that your computer has more control over your time than you do. Check out Automator and learn how it can save you some time. ... Read more

Book Description
The only Apple-certified book on Mac OS X 10.5 Leopard, thiscomprehensive reference takes support technicians and ardent Mac usersdeep inside their operating systems, covering everything fromnetworking technologies to system administration, customizing theoperating system, command-line programming, and more. Keyed to thelearning objectives of theAppleCertified Technical Coordinatorcertification exam, the lessons in this self-paced volume serve as aperfect supplement to Apple’s own training class and a first-rateprimer for computer support personnel who need to troubleshoot andoptimize Mac OS X as part of their jobs. Self-quizzes and chapter testsreinforce the knowledge gained along the way. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (11)

Great reference for admins
Regan and Pugh provide a pointed and clear overview of Leopard server fundamentals in their officially Apple-sanctioned guide book. The fact that itis targeted for admins, and geared for certification study kills two birds with one stone. I found the book very useful in bringing up a 10.5 server from install through providing distributed solutions via Netboot through tackling Apple's Open Directory. Overall, a very well-rounded reference I know I'll use over and over.

Great for certification, not very practical though
Peachpit's "Apple Training Series" is generally an outstanding product line. However, there are two distinct branches to the line: knowledge and certification. This book isn't designed as much to teach you about OS X Server (Tiger edition) as it is to prepare you for a certification exam. Nothing wrong with that, it just not terribly practical for real world operations. While I haven't taken the certifcation exam, I suspect this book prepares you well for the exam since it's the "offical" curriculum of the Apple Training and Cetification program.

Similiar to other test prep books, there are goals and reviews. In particular, the book breaks down the learning into chapters with time estimates, which is helpful in preparing your learning process. The included CD has sample files to go along with the detailed and expanded exercises. The book takes you through the basics of setting up a server start to finish along with giving an overview of the rich feature set found in OS X Server.

Unfortunately, simliar to other test prep books, the book doesn't arm you with the skills necessary to properly maintain and configure a Tiger server in the real world. There is no troubleshooting guide nor much practical advice on do's and don'ts of server setup. After reading this book, I'm relatively confident I could pass the exam, but I do not feel confident I could configure or maintain a Tiger server. Nonetheless, this book is a good first step in learning OS X server. You need no prior knowledge to start using this book and to at least get a test server set up.

Overall this is a good book for beginners and/or persons trying to get certified on OS X server. The book level from Peachpit says "Intermediate/Advanced". I disagree; this is strictly for new users. If you will be maintaining a OS X server, look elsewhere for a support guide. Anyone who's setup a OS X server will be annoyed by this book.

Pros: Clear examples and easy to follow guide for beginners
Cons: No troubleshooting nor practical guidance after initial setup

Two out of five dogcows

Passed Apple Certification exam with this book
While I have quite a bit of experience with Mac OS X Server 10.4, I still read this book cover-to-cover. It's a great read and you'll always find something you don't know. By reading this, I was easily able to pass Apple's ACTC Certification exam. Save yourself a lot of money and start with this book instead of the formal classes...then if you need more, try the Apple Training classes.

It is what it says it is
This book is not perfect, but the harshly negative reviews it's gotten so far are pretty much baseless. This is a book about Mac OS X Server. It is not a book about BIND or Apache or VPNs or any of the countless other services it is possible to run *on* Mac OS X Server. If you want to learn about the specifics of Apple's management utilities or are preparing for the Apple Technical Coordinator certification exams, then this is a fine book. If you know absolutely nothing about networking or server administration and want a book that's going to turn you into a sysadmin overnight, then you should definitely look elsewhere.

good level
I read quickly to analize the level.I will use deeply next month. it seems nice, well documented and using plain english.
It analizes intermediate to complex situations.
Useful. ... Read more

Book Description
Jessica Sterns has always been a good girl, doing right, dating right, following all the right rules. Now, at twenty nine, thanks to a life change, she's got a whole lot of catching up to do, and a whole lot of bad girl to let loose. It's just a question of finding the right man.At first glance, Mac Hollister would appear to be just that man. The tall rugged rancher practically oozes testosterone, while his indolent posture, easy confidence and raw masculinity just scream "bad boy". He's the kind of man women spin dark fantasies around. The kind of man she's looking for.The minute the honey-blonde sets her dainty foot on the sidewalk in Round The Bend, Mac knows he's in trouble. From the top of her head with its long French braid, to the tips of her toes with their delicate pink polish, this woman defines elegance. Not the kind of woman he prefers, but no amount of logic can dissuade his interest once he sees Jessie's smile. He's always been a sucker for a sense of humor. Especially when it comes packaged with a killer body and an equally killer wit.Mac expects their affair to be short, sweet and safe, but he soon discovers that beneath that delicate image lurks a woman who can handle all the "bad boy" he can throw at her. She's everything he never expected to find, and what started out short-term soon becomes a relationship that will demand a compromise he's not sure he can make in order to keep the one woman he can't imagine living without. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (22)

OMG - They do not get any hotter than this!
All I can say about this book is Oh My God!This has been the single most intense book I've ever read, they absolutely do not get any hotter than this one.I don't think I've ever blushed or squirmed in my seat as much as I did throughout this book and I LOVED IT!

All of Sarah McCarty's books are out of this world and hotter than you know where.

You absolutely do not want to miss out on this one!

Sex scenes are hot.....the story, not so much.
In a nutshell: Woman moves to old west, well, kind of. This book seems like an old western but it is a contemporary. Woman answers ad for job as cook for a rancher. Rancher doesn't want to hire a woman because of the horny old men working for him. Woman makes a deal to prove herself. Ranch hands love womans cooking. Rancher like woman. Woman likes rancher. They have sex. Rancher holds back anal sex from woman because of mommy issues. Woman leaves rancher until rancher realizes he needs woman in "every" way. They reunite to have all kinds of sex....The end.

needs a tighter chain
Okay, I know it's erotica, but this book had one (or two) sex scenes too many. I felt exhausted and sore. The ending made no sense at all, but you don't read these books for the plot.. However, that being said, with judicious reading and skimming, I feel this could be a very fine book (ie it just need better editing) And despite my criticisms it's still a keeper for me. It's a hot, hot book.

Mac's Law
This book had an abundance of sex scenes but that seems to be all there is. The plot is a bit lacking so there's isnt much of a story here. It's a nice read but if you looking for a good plot development then this books isn't really your thing.

haleraiser
THE BOOK HAD ABUNDANCE OF SEX, WHICH WAS COOL!!! BUT THE MAIN CHARACTHER JESSIE HAD STUPID HANG UPS ABOUT A PAST LOVER THAT SHE NEVER REALLY HAD SEX WITH, AND SHE WAS SO OBSESSED WITH HAVING ANAL SEX THAT IT SEEMED LIKE THAT WAS ALL THE STORY FOCUSED ON. I ONLY GAVE IT THREE STARS BECAUSE OF ALL THE SEX. ... Read more

Book Description
Are you making reliable backups and performing regular maintenance onyour Mac? Too few Mac users take the time to do so, and they regret itwhen something goes wrong. That's where Macintosh expert Joe Kissellcan help. You'll learn how to keep your Mac running smoothly with a setof daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly tasks, plus get advice onpreparing for Mac OS X updates. You'll also find out how to monitoryour Mac to detect problems early and where to turn if trouble raisesits ugly head.

But the most important aspect of maintenance isa rock-solid backup strategy that protects all your important data inthe event of catastrophe. To that end, Joe provides an at-a-glancecomparison of different strategies, explains the pros and cons of eachtype of media, and helps you pick the best backup program for yourneeds. You'll find time-tested recommendations that help you set up,test, and maintain your backups, complete with instructions on how torestore after a crash. Important lessons you'll learn along the wayinclude the utility of having both a duplicate and an archive, thenecessity of testing backups, and the importance of offsite backups.

In this book you'll find the answers to questions like these:

• When is my Mac likely to have trouble?
• How can I find out which unnecessary files are taking up space on my disk?
• Should I defragment my hard disk and repair permissions regularly?
• What is the best backup software and hardware?
• How can I make sure I can restore from my backups?

Customer Reviews (11)

Real World Mac Maintenance and Backups
Must have if you're expertise level is not advanced. You really need to do yourself a favor and safeguard your data and OS integrity.

Love your Mac? then Buy This Book
In language which those of us without technical degrees can understand, Joe Kissell explains how to keep your Mac AND your valuable data safe and healthy. I'm one who didn't know the difference between an "archive" and a "back up". Well, I do now, thanks to this book. It is a truism that nobody backs up their data until they have lost it at least once. Don't let this be true of you when it's so easy to keep everything safe and your Mac happy.

I'd also like to point out that this book is interesting and even fun to read, unlike manycomputer books I've seen. Joe Kissell will not put you to sleep, and you just might want to send him a thank you note the first time his advice saves your from hours (or more) of heartache.

Best Mac Book Ever
It is now twenty years that I have been using Macintoshes and buying books about this computer.While many have been helpful, this one stands out in providing the essential information that is critical to users of any computer.As our world becomes more dependent on these beasts, the old dictum:there are two kinds of people in this world--those who have lost data and those who will -- is even more true.I began backing up to 3.5 inch floppies using retrospect, and then tried a Syquist Drive which worked for years, and then began using inexpensive hard drive storage.But a logical way to strategize, or someone to hold my hand as I made critical decisions about back up, was absent until this book came along.All the Macintosh bibles and missing manuals were nice, but this one is indispensible.There are lots of great reviews of this book, and I wanted to frame this in a broader picture.The maintenance material is essential too.

Best in class. Invest in the integrity of your data *before* you lose it.
Microsoft conditioned me to feel insecure about my data. Because of this I had always planned on following the often heard but rarely heeded advice to do regular backups of my data. But what this really requires is a coherent backup *system* not just a backup product. Similarly, I'd always planned to set up a regular maintenance routine for my Mac, a systematic approach not just the occasional use of a maintenance product.

Problem: almost all info and reviews of backup and maintenance products in the Mac press write from a product-centered point of view focused on product features rather than a user-centric point of view focused on how to set up a backup and maintenance system to fit your needs and then how to choose products to fit into your system accordingly.

Solution: Joe Kissell's book. Kissell's book is a very smart approach to developing automated backup and maintenance systems for your Mac that largely run in the background to protect your data and your hard drive automatically. He starts not with product features to look for, but with a thorough assessment of your specific needs that drives your search for specific product features to meet those needs. After guiding you through your needs, including things I had not thought of or considered, he then has a smart comparative review of current backup software to best match your needs with the products that have the features you need. It's systematic; the only systematic approach I've ever found to this complex subject.

My only gripe is that you can tell it was written in Microsoft Word because the typography is terrible. But the substance, the content, is best in class. This is the best source of information on backups and maintenance for the Mac platform bar none. It's the only resource you need. All you need to do is read his book, set up your system, implement it, and stick to the weekly schedule. The whole thing can be done in one day or over a weekend. Do it before you lose important data that would take you far longer than a weekend to replace or reconstruct.

I've integrated Joe's recommendations for a backup system and a maintenance system into an easy weekly backup & maintenance routine that keeps my Mac in top shape with redundant backups just in case. For once I have peace of mind regarding my data. Thanks Joe.

Jeff Nailen
BioFit Solutions

Essential Mac Maintenance
Very helpful, especially the Mac backup information.Helped cut through the hype, provided clear answers. ... Read more

Book Description
Share printers, play games online, and see how to find a strong signal

Here's an AirPort that won't make you wait! This cool technology makes wireless networking a snap, and with this book, even an adult can do it. You'll see how to set up your network with Mac OS(r) X, add home entertainment toys, take it on the road, and even (sorry!) keep in touch with the office from almost anywhere.

Discover how to:
* Add AirPort to any OS X Mac
* Connect your network to the Internet
* Extend your AirPort network's range
* Show movies and post photos over your network
* Protect your AirPort network from intruders ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Not as good as enclosed directions
I got this book to troubleshoot an already set up wireless system. When I encountered problems, the book did not provide insight beyond that provided by the instructuons. If you enjoy lame humor and need to fill your empty bookshelf, buy this book.

Absolutely Perfect - Great Tutorial & Fun Reading
Even though the Apple Airport choice is not the cheapest choice, it is the easiest to set up ... but like most people, you are worried about leaving any holes for your neighbors or the guy in a car on the street to ride your bandwidth or worse.

"AirPort and Mac Wireless Networks For Dummies" covers nearly ever setup choice in not only helping you get set up but also what each of the security choices (yes, no, WEP, Multicast, etc, etc ..) means and why or why not to choose that choice.

It's written (as all the Dummies books) by a "normal" person for "normal" people. The Apple Mac setup wizard (unlike Pc ones) included with your purchase of the Airport is actually useful but there are some extra choices in the menus that are explained in greater detail and much clearer here.

There are also simple instructions for those who want to add a router and share a USB printer.

And how to extend the distance of your Airport with additional airports ... and several great chapters explaining the difference between the regular Airport, the Airport Express and how to set it up to stream music or when you go out on the road.

This book explains exactly what it promises and sets out step by step so everything is crystal clear.

It's detailed without giving you too much info and never with jargon that's confusing.

After you get your Airport, buy this book. Your setup will take 15 minutes but you will sleep soundly knowing all your bases are covered.

For Dummies, and for me too!
I love For Dummies books.A good while ago (when the earth's crust was still cooling and dinosaur's had just begun their reign), I started reading books in the For Dummies series to help me with Unix and Microsoft's DOS.I haven't really ever needed a Dummies book for any Mac related experience.

But I was offered the chance to review this guide, Airport & Mac Wireless Networks for Dummies, and I jumped at the chance, primarily since I was a bit nervous to check if I'd set up my own home wireless network optimally.I knew that I'd gotten it "right" since it worked, but after sitting through our local Apple User group's guest lecturer speak about the horrors which awaited the foolishly unsecured network, I decided to check "just in case."

So allow me to let you know that I have a Mac Powerbook G4, and I purchased an Airport Extreme to shift from wired service with DSL to wireless networking in my apartment.And it worked great.I love wireless networking ... it just seems such a normal extension of my laptop experience.

I have read For Dummies books previously, so I initially scanned the Cheat Sheet found immediately inside the book's front cover (which summarized well the experience I was about to have.)

Next I checked the Contents at a Glance section.This simple overview helped me confirm that I didn't need to read the book front-to-back in order, so instead, I picked and chose my interest areas (as recommended by the author, Mr. Michael Cohen.)I found Part V the most use, specifically the series of "Tens" in chapters 12 through 15.Overall, and in keeping with my initial concern about the security of my own network, I found Mr. Cohen's summary of Ten Wireless Security Measures to be the best for me.

If any problem might be found with this book, it would be found in whether the reader "needs" the book.Simply put, Apple does such a good job with both the Airport Set-up and Administration applications, I didn't need the book to get by.

But, having the book is a good value to me, since instead I can use it as a reference to check what I thought I knew and to learn much more than I knew existed about the world of Wireless Networks.I liked Mr. Cohen's use of humor and personal experience in expressing the concepts in each of the chapters.

As dessert to the main course of this book, Mr. Rich Tenant's "The 5th Wave" cartoons illustrate the opening page of each Part of the book.These humorous cartoons were great too! ... Read more

Book Description
Now you no longer have to choose between Mac OS X and Windows! Thelatest Macs from Apple can run both Mac OS X and Windows, so you’re notlimited to just one operating system. Running Windows on your Macexplains how this simple technology works and walks you through everyphase of the process of setting up Windows on your Mac. Are you aWindows user who’s buying your first Mac? A Macintosh user who needs torun Windows software? Or just a computer user who wants the best ofboth worlds? There’s something in this book for everyone. You’ll finddetailed instructions for installing Windows on your Mac in three easyways; a friendly guide to the Mac for Windows users; and a handyreference to Windows for Mac users.

In this book, you’ll learn how to

• Load and configure the two most popular Mac OS X virtualization programs, Parallels Desktop for Mac and VM ware Fusion.
• Install Windows easily, either in Parallels or Fusion, or with Boot Camp.
• Keep your Windows installation in top shape, free of viruses and spyware.
• Run Windows applications alongside Macintosh programs.
• Add your new Mac to an existing Windows network.
• Explore the intricacies of a new operating system, whether it’s Mac OS X or Windows.

Book Description
* This book provides timesaving tips, cool secrets, and productivity tricks to help take a reader's knowledge of Mac OS X Tiger beyond the basics
* Highly visual format uses easy-to-follow tutorials and full-color screen shots on every page
* The task-oriented approach helps visual learners work smarter by teaching them tips, tricks, and techniques for getting more done in less time ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Mac OS X Tiger:Top 100 Simplified Tips & Tricks
I found this book very helpful and easy to follow.The visuals are great and a lot easier to use than just reading pages and pages of words on how to do things.

mac os x tiger
The book is very helpful.While it is limited to the "Top 100", it covers a lot of things useful to Mac users.

Mac OS X Tiger: 100 Siplified Tips and Tricks
I purchased this book for my husband and one like it for my son. Both of them have found it simple to follow and helpful. I had a book similar to this for my Mac laptop and found it to be extremely useful and easy to follow as well. ... Read more

Book Description

See it done. Do it yourself. It’s that Easy! Easy Mac OS X Leopard teaches you the fundamentals of working with the Mac operating system. Fully illustrated steps with simple instructions guide you through each task, building the skills you need to master Mac OS X Leopard with ease. No need to feel intimidated, we’ll hold your hand every step of the way.

Learn how to:

• Save, open, and print your documents

• Use Spotlight to instantly locate any file

• Network multiple Macs and share your Internet connection

• Back up your important data automatically

• Buy music online

• Use iPhoto to take control of your photo collection

• Share calendars with coworkers, family, and friends

• Keep your Mac running smoothly

Easy steps guide you through each task.

Items you select or click are shown in bold.

Each step is fully illustrated.

Introduction xii

Chapter 1: Getting Started 2

Chapter 2: Working with Disks, Folders, and Files 20

Chapter 3: Installing and Using Applications 56

Chapter 4: Setting System Preferences 76

Chapter 5: Customizing Your Mac 90

Chapter 6: Organizing Your Life 108

Chapter 7: Printing, Faxing, and Scanning 132

Chapter 8: Getting Online 146

Chapter 9: Living Online 166

Chapter 10: Getting an iLife 202

Chapter 11: Sharing Your Mac with Multiple Users 226

Chapter 12: Creating a Home Network 238

Chapter 13: Maintaining Your Mac 250

Glossary 264

Index 274

Customer Reviews (2)

Absolutely Basic
This book is almost no help as it is absolutely basic, and does not tackle handling of any problems.
If I was not living overseas I might have thought about returning it the moment I flipped through the pages.

It is great to get this book!
It is fun to read this colourful book. In addition to the fully illustrated steps with simple instructions, I find the 'tips' and 'notes' for working with the Mac OS Leopard very useful. I like to recommend this book particularly to first time Mac users. It has enabled me to start using my MacBook quickly. ... Read more