Amazon.co.uk Review
In
Mac OS X for Dummies, Bob LeVitus explains how to use the title operating system for everyday computing tasks. He does a great job of explaining--in terms well-suited to people who lack much computer experience--how to run applications, connect to the Internet, find information and communicate with others. Plus the Dummies format suits operating systems like Mac OS very well.
The real excitement of Mac OS X is that, beneath the surface, it's very similar to Berkeley Software Distribution (BSD) Unix, an extraordinarily powerful and well-loved operating system. Apple calls this Unix core by the name of Darwin, and it comes complete with a C compiler, a whole suite of GNU-based development tools, the MySQL database, the Apache Web server and a ton of other utilities that will open the floodgates to open-source development of software for the Macintosh.
LeVitus touches on practically none of this. True, this is a Dummies book, but it tells only half the story. The book documents Mac OS X only to the extent that it looks and runs like Mac OS 9.1. It does a good job at that, but don't turn to this book if you're interested in learning why Mac OS X is so exciting. Read LeVitus's work only if you happen to have a computer that runs Mac OS X, have very little Mac experience and aren't interested in doing anything at the administrator or programmer levels. If you meet those criteria, you'll be very happy with this book. --David Wall
Topics covered: Mac OS X for the casual and inexperienced Mac user. The author explains how to manipulate files and folders, run programs, use Sherlock and take advantage of Internet connectivity--the latter coverage deals with iTools nicely. An appendix explains how to install Mac OS X and how to make it coexist on one machine with Mac OS 9.1.
Product Description
Mac OS X includes dozens of new or improved features to make using your Mac easier, as well as dozens more that help you do more work in less time. Now you can use these new features to be more productive, have fewer headaches, reduce your cholesterol level, and fall in love with your Mac all over again.
With Mac OS X For Dummies, you′ll be managing files, storing documents, launching programs, adjusting the way the machine works, and much more in the short time it takes to move through the smoothest reference guide you′ll ever meet (and re–greet every time you need a trusted resource for fast, friendly answers). In this updated volume, you′ll find out what make your Mac a Mac, in addition to discovering
- The new–fangled Finder window
- The big deal on the Dock
- Icon info galore
- A sea of menus and shortcuts
- Straight talk on folder navigation
Navigating the depths of Mac OS X safely and sanely is a breeze with the coverage in this must–have companion to your Apple product. Written by renowned Mac expert and best–selling author Bob LeVitus, Mac OS X For Dummies takes you from basic training to advanced maneuvers, including
- Customizing Finder Windows with Views
- Mastering the Save Sheet and the Open Dialog Box
- Haggling with Removable Media
- Applying yourself to the Applications Folder
- Backing up by using commercial software
- Troubleshooting operating system annoyances
- Tuning into cool programs and preferences that you may use every day
Whether you’re brand–spanking new to the Mac or a grizzled old Mac–vet, Mac OS X For Dummies proves that exploring the ins and outs of Mac OS X can be fun, easy, and totally habit–forming.
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