Upgrade now. Boot up into Mac OS 9.1 90 percent of the time and theremaining 10 percent use Mac OS X. Learn the interface and nuances ofthe new features. As more native Mac OS X applications (i.e., the onesyou need) become available in the coming months, watch the 90/10percentage swing toward 10/90. Before you know it, you won't be able toremember the last time you started up OS 9.1, and you'll hate it whenyou do. --Mike Caputo ... Read more

Features

Asin: B000059Y3D

Mac OS X Little Black Book: A Complete Guide to Migrating and Setting Up Mac OS X
by Gene Steinberg
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (04 May, 2001)
list price: $29.99 -- our price: $19.79
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

Mac OS X Little Black Book explains what's new in Mac OS, and offersstrategies and tips for making users' machines as useful as possible. The LittleBlack Book format has two kinds of sections. "Immediate Solutions" sectionsprovide the steps for achieving certain goals ("Running Classic as a StartupApplication") and solving problems ("Why Are [E-mail] Messages Scrambled?").More explanatory material, such as commentary on the newly accelerated sleepand wake functions and a look at the Dock's useful capabilities, appear in "InBrief" sections. Most readers likely will prefer the how-to material--it'seasier to follow and generally less obvious.

As is typical of pretty much all books about Mac OS X published to date, though,this book all but ignores Darwin, the operating system's Unix kernel and attendantinterfaces and utilities. Gene Steinberg shows how to poke around at the commandline and use a couple of utilities for diagnostic and file-system-repair purposes,but that's about it. This book would be better if it more fully embraced the Unixcharacteristics of Mac OS X, but what's here should more than satisfy intermediate-levelMac users interested in taking advantage of what's new in the latest version of thesystem. --David Wall

Topics covered: Mac OS X for competent users of earlier versions of Mac OS.Information on use and troubleshooting appears on all major aspects of the operatingsystem except the Unix command shell. Installation, multiuser configuration, localarea networking, AppleScript, and Internet connectivity all get attention. ... Read more

Reviews (16)

Not for experienced users
The title of my review says it all.

Don't Listen to Armchair Critics
I was really surprised to read a couple of reviews here making absolutely false attacks about this book. A recent one claims there's little more here than in the tiny guide Apple provides. Don't believe it! The Mac OS X Little Black Book tells you how to use each and every preference panel. The Apple guide doesn't. This book tells you how to make Classic work reliably. The Apple guide doesn't. This book tells you how to reinstall Mac OS X without erasing your drive. The Apple guide doesn't.And on and on. I enjoyed this book, because it provides solid information and doesn't just provide material for amusement as some other books (like that "Lost," which is really "Missing Manual" tries to do). I highly recommend Mr. Steinberg's book.

Boring!
This has to be the ultimate in "worst" Mac Books. It is nothing more than a repetition of the booklet that comes with the OS,more wordy but no more helpful. I subsequently bought the OS X in the "Lost Manual" series (also available on Amazon) and it was like night and day. Don't waste your money on this one like I did. ... Read more

Isbn: 1576107019
Subjects:  1. Apple And Macintosh Programming    2. Computer Bks - Apple / Macintosh    3. Computer Books: Operating Systems    4. Computers    5. Hardware - Personal Computers - Macintosh    6. Mac OS    7. Macintosh (Computer)    8. Operating Systems - General    9. Operating Systems - Macintosh    10. Operating systems (Computers)   

Sad Macs, Bombs, and Other Disasters (4th Edition)
by Ted Landau
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (17 July, 2000)
list price: $34.99 -- our price: $23.09
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

Contrary to what a lot of Macintosh aficionados will tell you, Macscrash. And when they do, they crash hard. It's often tough to figure out exactlywhat the problem is when you get that cute little bomb icon informing you thatyour system has gone bye-bye.

Ted Landau does an admirable job of explaining what can go wrong with your Macand what you need to do to prevent it from happening again. Besides offering afew preventive maintenance techniques, Landau thoroughly explains the differenttypes of system crashes and how to resolve them, including recurring systemerrors that crop up like recurring nightmares.

Sad Macs is well organized, with entire chapters devoted to startupcrashes, printing problems, and issues specific to portable Macs. Landau haswritten the ultimate Mac troubleshooting guide; it should be on the desk ofevery Mac user. --John Frederick Moore ... Read more

Reviews (21)

Landau knows his stuff, but ...
I have a lot of respect for Landau .. and he knows what he's writing about ... but this was written pre-OS X.

It's time for another edition, since OS X has a whole NEW set of problems ... including the occasional "kernel panic" (read "crash"). There is also a whole new group of compatibility issues with peripherals: printers and scanners among them.

Well worth the money!
One of the few technical books in my library that I feel has really paid for itself, and then some.Technical books are so expensive, and most of mine sit in the bookcase collecting dust within a month or two after purchasing them.This book had saved me more money than I spent on it within the first month, and I continue to use it on a regular basis.In addition to having real and practical advice on fixing problems, Mr Landau provides advice on preventative maintenance and must-have troublshooting aids, and background on how Macs work when thre aren't any problems.I would say that this book is the most essentialof those aforementionedmust-have tools.

Sad Macs, Bombs & Other Disasters
The iMac I purchased in July 2001 is my first home computer. I found this book at the library, then discovered it contained so much good information, that I purchased it. It sometimes has too much info for a newbie, but still it is an excellent reference. This book is the "bible of troubleshooting", and a great way to learn how your computer works. I'd say it is a "must purchase"! ... Read more

Isbn: 020169963X
Subjects:  1. Apple And Macintosh Programming    2. Computer Bks - Apple / Macintosh    3. Computer Books: General    4. Computers    5. Hardware - Personal Computers - Macintosh    6. Macintosh (Computer)    7. Operating Systems - Macintosh    8. Computers / Operating Systems / Macintosh   

Mac OS 9.1: Visual QuickStart Guide
by Maria Langer
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (02 February, 2001)
list price: $17.99
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Editorial Review

Mac OS 9.1: Visual QuickStart Guide, like its popular series-mates, tightly integrates text--mostly bulleted lists of facts and numbered steps to follow--with small, salient illustrations. If a procedure refers to the Add to Favorites command on the File menu, a picture of the File menu--with the relevant command highlighted--appears immediately adjacent. And Maria Langer is among the most popular authors in this series, largely because she's very good at writing in this format.

This book centers on the needs of people who use Mac OS 9.1--on iMacs, iBooks, and desktop Macs--in home and small-office settings. More specifically, Langer assumes that readers do all of their configuration work themselves, without the aid of the dedicated experts who typically work in large organizations. More experienced users of Mac OS, though they may find a lot of the material elementary, will appreciate the coverage of networking and Internet connectivity. Confident novices will love this book for its detail and the fact that it's not at all condescending to newcomers. --David Wall

Topics covered: Mac OS 9.1 for anyone who uses it, explicit and well-illustrated how-to information on file management, software (both native to Mac OS and aftermarket), printing, networking, connectivity via local area networks (LANs) and modems, and performance. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

For newbies only ...
If you have NEVER used a personal computer before, are unsure what a "cursor" is, get completely confused when relatives tell you to "drag that file to the XYZ folder," and feel like an idiot when asked to select an item from a "pull-down menu," this is the book for you.

As it happens, such folk do exist -- my sister is one of them, and I bought this book for her for all the foregoing reasons. It has relieved her anxiety about computers dramatically. After all, where do you go for help if you've never heard ofa "Help menu"? What do you do when your well-meaning sibling tries to explain things, but keeps using noises like "cursor" and "menu" as if you were fluent in some peculiar foreign language?

For its intended audience, this book does a fine job. But it's NOT for anyone who can already work a mouse, choose actions from a menu, or point a cursor at an object.

Easiest to understand
I am totally new to computers and I have many Dummy books and otherwise for my OS.,but I was still having trouble understanding the 'helpful' books, til I got this one. She writes simply for a newby to understand yet covers what all the other books did, and shows enough pictures to guide you along. I'm sure there are many other books that are fine for someone who is more familiar, but this one did it for me.Thanks.

DISAPPOINTED!!!
i recently purchased this book from amazon and i was deeply disappointed with the purchase. the book was very superficial in it's coverage of the os 9.1 operating system. i read it cover to cover and constantly hoped that it would get meatier, but alas it did not. i recently purchased os 9.1 & os x and i wanted to learn everything about os 9.1 before going on to os x. i previously used os 8.6, and there was very little that this book taught me that i didn't already know. the repetition was "mind numbing" and if the author had truly filled up all pages and deleted all of the references of what she would tell you later and what she had told you before, the book would have filled half as many pages at best. there were many earlier books on os 9 that i could have and should have chosen, but this was a more recent publication and i assumed that it would be more up to date. practically anything of substance was deemed by the author to "be beyond the scope of this book". in my opinion, this book is of little or no use to a person familiar with mac os; only a novice would benefit from reading it. ... Read more

Isbn: 0201730871
Subjects:  1. Apple And Macintosh Programming    2. Computer Bks - Apple / Macintosh    3. Computer Books: General    4. Computer operating systems    5. Computers    6. Hardware - Personal Computers - Macintosh    7. Mac OS    8. Macintosh (Computer)    9. Operating Systems - General    10. Operating Systems - Macintosh    11. Operating systems (Computers)   

Mastering Mac OS X
by Todd Stauffer
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (22 June, 2001)
list price: $39.99
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Editorial Review

Apple's Mac OS X is a quantum leap in the operating system for the Macintosh computer, offering stability and depth that is unheard of in a desktop consumer-level operating system. There is a price for all this strength, however: OS X is far deeper and more complicated than any previous version of the Mac operating system. Mastering Mac OS X goes beyond Apple's own hardcopy documentation, which is minimal at best, and lays bare the workings of this state-of-the-art operating system.

Five main parts comprising 25 chapters make up this 800-page tome, covering such topics as installing Mac OS X; comparing X to OS X Server and OS 9.x; the new interface; network architecture; and configuring user accounts, privileges, and network communications.

Part III, "Getting Things Done with Mac OS X," discusses the use of the bundled applications (Mail, Address Book, Preview, Keychain Access, Grab, etc.), as well as the new printing architecture and how to set up printers and manage color with ColorSync; using QuickTime; and automating the OS and applications using AppleScript.

The book falls short on only a few things. There is little reference to its heritage (NeXT's NeXTStep OS) or other carryover features from NeXTStep (such as NetInfo), and not much about the Unix startup process and the scripts that run during bootup (although you will learn that you can hold down Command+V to see system messages during booting). The book is much more focused on bringing up to speed an experienced Mac user, not necessarily a user with some Unix experience who needs to know just how Apple is handling Unix.

There are many good things about this book--the troubleshooting section is informative, and there's a terrific chapter on using Terminal and writing Unix shell scripts. The appendix, "Installing and Setting up Mac OS X," in Mastering Mac OS X goes far beyond Apple's own minimal hardcopy documentation, as do the chapters on the preinstalled applications.

Mastering Mac OS X makes a fine handbook for users anxious to dig into the new operating system, and it offers a subtle introduction to some of the core Unix workings. --Mike Caputo ... Read more

Reviews (14)

Good guide to OS X for intermediate users
I've seen a fair number of books for OS X and they range in target audience from the raw beginner such as Mac OS X for Dummies and Robin William's Mac OS X Book through to those for technical readers such as Mac OS X In A Nutshell (IAN).

Mastering Mac OS X falls firmly in the middle. Unlike IAN it spends a fair amount of time on the GUI and a major section is devoted to QuickTime and the iApps. Unlike Robin William's volume it covers high end topics such as AppleScript and the terminal and has a good section on troubleshooting. One thing lacking that I applaud is that it does not have IAN's large chapter summing up Unix commands.

The Good

The book is well structured, divided into 7 sections, 5 of increasing complexity, 'The Mac OS X Basics', 'On The Internet', 'Multimedia: Images Sound, Video', 'Networking, Coonectivity and Portables' and 'Advanced Mac OS X topics' - which covers AppleScript, the Terminal, and various servers including QuickTime, Samba and Sendmail. These are followed by a hardware and troubleshooting section and finally the appendices. The index is good and it has the by now traditional two level table of contents, the first listing just the chapter heads and the second listing all the sub sections as well.

Given that structure, the book touches all the bases and covers all the required topics well.

The writing is not bad, I think a stronger hand with the editing would have done wonders as it tends to the wordy.

The Bad

Once again a certain amount of the early stuff is either below the needs of the target audience or not really required. Oh, and Sybex do have a page for the book...!OpenDocument which includes a Table of Contents, sample chapter, index and errata but get a load of that URL and the author has a web page for the book but he hasn't touched it in over a year, since before this second edition was published.

Conclusion

It should be said that among all the books in this genre none are badly written, or badly structured. Personally I don't like the style of the 'Dummies' books and so I put it at the bottom of my list but others may not have the same feeling. That said, how do you choose among them? The choice boils down to two things, how close you are to the target audience for a particular book and how well it addresses the target audience. Mastering Mac OS X is targeted at "intermediate beginners (those who have some experience with a graphical operating system) and solidly intermediate to advanced users" according to the Introduction. I think that it covers the needs of the first group well but will probably fall short if you are already an "advanced user." For these people I'd recommend Mac OS X In A Nutshell. If you are a total newbie, then I'd recommend Robin William's Mac OS X Book.

Good Desktop Companion
I put this desktop reference and basic "how to" OS X book to work immediately, as I attempted to connect from an internet caf? and couldn't figure out how to override my computer from continually attempting to connect to the ethernet as opposed to my Airport connection. I quickly found the chapter and section of this 800 page plus book, and focused in on the information I knew was going to assist me. If it wasn't for the graphic on the page, I would not have been sure if I was in the correct place. I skimmed through, and quickly was able to achieve my first task with my new Mastering OS X 2nd Edition reference book. I could tell we were going to get along just fine. I quickly went through the other OS X questions that I had been saving in my head for this exact moment. With a quick perusal of the Table of Contents, and the graphics used in the book, I have had my deepest OS X mysteries solved and my ibook signing to my personal preferences. In the back binding of the book, there is also a chapter reference that anticipates your next move. It seems to have been designed consecutively so that you can also begin to see the natural progression of your own personal network, and to perhaps judge what is missing from it as well. For example, it lists topics such as "Backing up your Mac" (okay- some of us need to still be reminded to do this, and to get advice as to what the best way to do so is!), and "Maintaining and Repairing Disks". Topics that otherwise would may have not crossed my mind are outlined right before me.

David Weeks MyMac.com Book Review
Todd Stauffer's Mastering Mac OS X Second Edition is a worthy addition to any OS X user's personal library. Updated with lots of new information for OS X 10.2 "Jaguar," this book (hereafter referred to as MMOSX2 to save my fingers) covers the waterfront for the intermediate and advanced user. While the back cover bills the book as suitable for users of all levels, I think that the raw Macintosh novice would find this book a bit intimidating, with the section Macintosh essentials being swamped by the huge amount of more advanced topics.

Stauffer is exceptionally thorough, with the 804 pages of text covering almost every facet of Mac OS X theory and practice. Rather than recite the various sections from the Table of Contents, you can be assured that almost any question an advanced or power user may have is covered. While not targeted at the hard-core, extreme geek, MMOSX2 does have a good basic introduction to the Unix underpinnings of OS X. Part V Advanced Mac OS X topics spans 100+ pages, and held my attention for page after page.

To my mind, the best sections in MMOSX2 are those on networking and cross-platform operations, as well as the two new chapters on troubleshooting system-level problems and typical OS X problems and solutions. Stauffer provides a well-rounded discussion of these topics, which are not often well served by other general-purpose OS X book, especially the troubleshooting sections.

Unfortunately, MMOSX2 was a bit hard to read, with text just a bit small for my 46 year-old eyes. While a larger type size would have caused the book to balloon to an even greater page count and greater weight, I would have preferred a larger type size. MMOSX2 is not alone, as other "boat-anchor" books often sacrifice readability for portability. Perhaps the publishers should begin to bundle a pair of cheap bifocals with any book over 500 pages.

Mastering Mac OS X Second Edition is clearly a reference book. Stauffer's style is a bit dry, to put it politely, and MMOSX2 will not keep you up into the night, unless you are using it while troubleshooting an OS X problem. But this book is clearly worth buying for its comprehensive collection of OS X information; you'll have all you need in one place on your bookshelf.

MacMice Rating: 4.5 out of 5 ... Read more

Isbn: 0782125816
Subjects:  1. Apple And Macintosh Programming    2. Computer Bks - Apple / Macintosh    3. Computer Books: Operating Systems    4. Computers    5. Hardware - Personal Computers - Macintosh    6. Macintosh (Computer)    7. Operating Systems - Macintosh    8. Operating systems (Computers)    9. Programming   

Mac OS X for Dummies
by Bob LeVitus
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (25 April, 2001)
list price: $21.99
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Editorial Review

In Mac OS X for Dummies, Mac Daddy 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. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

A handy book to have
I rely mostly on books and some videos to get around on my G4 with FCP3 and Photoshop 7. My Mac has OS 10.2. I have the Robin Williamsand the David Pogue books. The are both very helpful. But, like most, I don't like to read detailed directions. Sometimes I feel I don't even qualify to read books for "Dummies".This book seems easier and quicker than the above 2 books to find answers to my problems. I am now becomming a fan of the "Dummie" books and I am beginning to feel that I might be a qualified reader. I can then go from there and read the Geek books if I need to. I would highly recommend these and other "Dummie" books. They are quicker and cheaper than highering a consultant or teacher.

Good book for Beginner Mac Users
I recently switched from a PC to an iBook notepad with OS X.So I was looking for any help I could get to teach me what I need to know.I checked out this book from the library and have found it extremely helpful.I don't think this book is aimed at "dummies" as another reviewer wrote, but at someone like myself who is just starting out with a Mac (and I don't consider myself a dummie).It is true that someone who is a "Power User" and has years of experience with Macs and the OS would find this book boring and talking down to them.But, if you're new to Macs at all, I think you'd find this book very helpful.It is a starter book, and from here, I would like to read other, more advanced books on the topic to further my knowledge.

Truly aimed at Dummies
This book wastes too much space trying to be hip and funny "Dummies" style. While it's a nice quick-read introduction of what's new in OS X, there is very little in the way of nuts and bolts. For example, you won't be able to configure Mail using this book, or figure out how to wend your way through the new multiple-users security system. Just when it starts to get meaty the author says something like "but that's beyond the purview of this book" or "this book is too short to cover this in detail."(Well, it wouldn't be if they didn't waste so much space with quips and cliches.)

Read this one at the library...you can do it in an hour. Then spend a few bucks more and get THE MISSING MANUAL. ... Read more

Isbn: 0764507060
Subjects:  1. Apple And Macintosh Programming    2. Computer Bks - Apple / Macintosh    3. Computer Books: General    4. Computer operating systems    5. Computers    6. Hardware - Personal Computers - Macintosh    7. Mac OS    8. Macintosh (Computer)    9. Operating Systems - General    10. Operating Systems - Macintosh    11. Operating systems (Computers)    12. Programming    13. Computers / Operating Systems / General    14. Operating systems & graphical user interfaces (GUIs)   

Mac OS X: Visual QuickStart Guide
by Maria Langer
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (18 April, 2001)
list price: $18.99
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Editorial Review

Apple's Unix-based, industrial-strength operating system, OS X, is the biggest change ever faced by the Mac community. OS X looks different, feels different, offers new and different features, and is an order of magnitude more complex than any previous Mac operating system. Maria Langer's Mac OS X Visual QuickStart Guide from Peachpit Press is designed to quell the fears of those apprehensive users who are looking to make the switch, or have just switched and find themselves lost in a new world.

Starting with the best way to prepare your computer for OS X, and working it's way through installation and the interface changes, this book covers almost every basic aspect of the new operating system. Navigating with the new Finder, application basics, hooking up to the Internet--it's all here, in simple, concise terms.

If the book has a flaw, it is that only the bare basics are covered. Everything presented is clear and thorough, but there is not enough material. There is nothing about access rights, logging in or logging out, or getting around basic issues that might pop up. The book lays things out as they should be but offers little advice for those times when something goes wrong.

Since Mac OS X ships with minimal hardcopy documentation, the Mac OS X Visual QuickStart Guide is an ideal companion for the new user making the switch. There is plenty of information here, presented clearly and with countless screenshots. For the brand-new user looking for a well-illustrated manual, this is the one that Apple should ship with OS X. --Mike Caputo ... Read more

Reviews (9)

A great book for the first time Mac user.
Summary

Labelled pictures along with clear and concise step by step instructions for navigating MacOS X and its basic applications makes this book ideal for first time Mac users or first time computers users with Macs.

Intermediate or advanced Mac users will find this book too elementary for their needs.

Details

This book covers 3 core topics, system configuration, navigation and how to use the bundled software.

System configuration covers the installation of MacOS X, system and printer configuration and Internet setup.

Navigation deals with file management, Sherlock and Finder.

Discussion of bundled software first deals with a general overview of menus and basic features common to all software.A single chapter focuses on using a few applications such as Address Book, Preview and the Quicktime player.A full chapter is dedicated to using TextEdit.

Instructions on how to accomplish tasks are presented in clear,simple checklists.Small "tip" sections provide further explanations of topics.

The checklists are usable and straightforward to follow.

Sharp screen shots of dialogs and menus are included to help the user work through the checklists.Screen shots are clearly labelled to help the reader learn the technical names of GUI elements.

Numerous screen shots provide ample visual examples to help guide the user through a checklist.

Keyboard shortcuts are listed when applicable.

Personally, I think this is a great visual guide for first time users of Macs as well as first time computer users.

Mac Addict Says it's "Droolworthy"
The September issue of "Mac Addict" magazine included this book on its "Droolworthy" page, with the comment, "Mac neophytes, this is your bible." I picked up a copy and am glad I did. It certainly helped me learn enough about Mac OS X to finally upgrade. Although it doesn't cover advanced topics, it leaves no stone unturned in its coverage of basic Mac OS X Finder and application operation. A great book! I can't wait to see the "Visual QuickPro Guide" that's due out later this year.

The Worst Visual Quickstart Guide Ever!
This is one of the worst books I've ever read. Every time a topic you would be interested in are discussed, the answer presented as "see our next book, Visual Quickpro Guide". And that is unacceptable.You can't ever learn OS X from this. No way. And I won't buy Quickpro either. Instead, I suggest if you really wanna learn about OS X, check out Mac Os X - The Complete Reference by Jesse Feiler. It contains everything this book SHOULD have had. ... Read more

Isbn: 0201709007
Subjects:  1. Apple And Macintosh Programming    2. Computer Bks - Apple / Macintosh    3. Computer Books: General    4. Computer operating systems    5. Computers    6. Hardware - Personal Computers - Macintosh    7. Macintosh (Computer)    8. Operating Systems - General    9. Operating Systems - Macintosh    10. Operating systems (Computers)   

Macworld Mac Secrets
by DavidPogue JosephSchorr
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (15 June, 2001)
list price: $39.99 -- our price: $27.19
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

David Pogue is the king of the Mac OS writers, and indeed one of the best authors of computer books around. For the latest edition of Macworld Mac Secrets, Pogue has teamed up with Joseph Schorr, the Mac writer who's written all the previous releases of this deservedly popular book. The result of their cooperation is a complete and fun-to-read treatment of Mac OS 9.1 and its predecessors. Coverage of Mac OS X is relegated to an appendix that doesn't touch on the Darwin core much at all, but all users of earlier Mac systems will be delighted.

Straight documentation ("Follow these steps to accomplish this goal") is part of what this book is about, and the authors have done a good job of showing how to do everyday work with the Finder, its applications, and networks (including the Internet). The real value of this book, however, is its vast collection of tips, tricks, and shortcuts. They're not really secrets, but they're the kind of things that you'll want to try right away as you're reading. For example, the authors explain how to get two Macs to open the same file at startup with the help of a removable disk, and how to use a utility from the book's Web site to change a file type. A lot of these tips come from readers of earlier editions, making this book a nice example of the Mac user community in action. --David Wall

Topics covered: How to get the most fun and utility from Mac OS 9.1 and earlier versions of the Macintosh operating system. Finder fundamentals, control panels, extensions, the history of the Mac product line, hardware, desktop publishing, digital photography and video, and Internet connectivity all are covered. ... Read more

Reviews (36)

MacWorld MacSecrets 6th edition
The book is great as far as it goes. It has only general information on Mac OS X. The authors promise additional "unlimited edition" chapters; however, the website where these chapters are supposed to be available no longer exists. Hungry Minds publisher was bought by Wiley and Sons, but the website was not acquired by them.
For OS 9 and previous systems the book can't be beat.

The best in the Mac community, but outdated now.
This book, like almost everything else by the insanely great David Pogue, is an extremely handy Macintosh book. As someone who does some part-time Mac repair and support, it's handy to have on hand. Not only does it go over the important things you'll need to know, it's also chock full of easter eggs and other fun hints.

However, the last major edition release was in 2001, and this book has become extremely outdated now that Mac OS X is the primary Mac OS. If you're looking for a good book on your Mac OS X computer, I'd recommend "Mac OS X: The Missing Manual" by the same author. "Mac OS X Hints", edited by David Pogue, is also a good book.

If you're a Mac fan, this book is still perfect for you. But if you're an OS X user who couldn't care less about OS 8 & 9, older Macs, or tips for old software, then buy some of the author's newer titles.

I need basic info, not cute tricks
I attribute the wide acceptance of these Mac books to the fact that thoroughgoing software manuals are apparently not provided by manufacturers anymore.I bought the 5th edition of this series when I acquired an iBook a couple of years ago.I hoped to learn more about deploying the basic capabilities of my OS 9.1 software than the little help screens provide.In the two yearsI've had the book, I've found almost nothing I needed to know to solve a real problem.The book seems to try to deal with several versions of Mac software and is actually a grab bag of "look at this cute trick" features, which may not even be achievable by my particular version of the OS.It may be that I bought the wrong book, but it seemed the most likely one on the shelf.

A case in point occurred when I recently began to suspect that the MACRO function could be combined with an IF function in a spreadsheet to do some format or color changes on the fly.However, this book offers precious little about macros, let alone other spreadsheet functions or the technique for combining them, if indeed that is possible, as it is in other spreadsheeting software.Perhaps this sort of information is not considered a "secret" and thus not appropriate for this book.Unhappily, I know of no other resource for it, so it remains a secret to me. ... Read more

Isbn: 0764534157
Subjects:  1. Apple And Macintosh Programming    2. Computer Bks - Apple / Macintosh    3. Computer Books: General    4. Computers    5. Hardware - Personal Computers - Macintosh    6. Macintosh (Computer)    7. Operating Systems - General    8. Reference - General    9. Reference - Macintosh    10. Computers / Personal Computers & Microcomputers / Macintosh    11. Macintosh   

The Mac OS X Book: A Beginner's Guide to the Newest Mac OS
by Mark R. Bell
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (16 July, 2001)
list price: $39.99 -- our price: $39.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Reviews (1)

Great book for new OSX users.
If you are Mac user new to OS X, this is a perfect book for you. Actually, if you just bought a new mac, and have no experience with a Mac whatsoever, this book is for you too. It's got a nice little overview of the technical components of the new mac os, how classic is used within it, and then goes over every section piece by piece(Applications, Networking, File system, Customization, Security, Troubleshooting, etc). It even gets into some of the more technical aspects of OS X such as Java and a list ofUNIX commands and what they do. This is definitely not a book for expert users, but overall, it's a great book for an introduction to OS X. ... Read more

Isbn: 1576106055
Sales Rank: 870809
Subjects:  1. Apple And Macintosh (Microcomputers)    2. Computer Bks - Apple / Macintosh    3. Computer Books And Software    4. Computer operating systems    5. Computers    6. Hardware - Personal Computers - Macintosh    7. Macintosh (Computer)    8. Operating Systems - General    9. Operating Systems - Macintosh    10. Operating systems (Computers)    11. Programming   

Mac OS X Fast & Easy
by Lisa A. Bucki
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (15 May, 2001)
list price: $18.99 -- our price: $18.99
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Reviews (4)

A fantastic newbie book.
I purchased this book for my sister. I recently purchased a used iMac for her with OS X installed as the default operating system. She has never used a personal computer before. I read the book before I mailed it to her and found that I do agree with the others opinion that this is not for a person who uses any computer regularly. It is very basic and if the first computer they are introduced to happens to be a Macintosh running OS X, I found the book to be very appropriate and educational. The book is a quick read and for someone like my sister, with no computer experience, I fill confident that she'll be able to get around in the operating system and learn the basic skills she'll need to learn more. This book is a great place to start!

New users think twice before buying!
This book was recommended to me by someone on the Apple support line. Apple is also selling it.
I bought it and am going to return it.As a new user, I initially took some comfort in the screen shots and click by click instructions. Until I found that the information and illustrations do not correspond in all cases to what you're actually going to be working with in OS X!
I started with the simple task of trying to change my desktop image (pg 115). The instructions are not correct and the Finder preferences dialog box pictured is not what you'll get in OS X 10.1.3.
Is it an illustration from 10.0? Did they leave out an intervening step? I don't know, but it's hardly helpful or "fast & easy" to confuse a new user with incorrect information.
This one example is enough to turn me off to the book as a reference. Too bad, because I like the illustrated format but don't need the stress of second guessing the advice given.
The two stars reflect my liking of the book's format, one that should have included content that was a good and accurate introductory tour through settings and setup.
Think twice about turning to this book if you're a clean slate
when it comes to macs or OS X.
Also, the url address given for "corrections" or feedback was dead.
Hmm? Perhaps any book on OS X with a copyright of 2001 should be avoided. I just wish Apple wouldn't recommend it to new users.

Great NOVICE BOOK
I too was disappointed in this book. I thought I was getting something that would help me with the transition from OS9 to OSX.I was definitely wrong.I give this book 3 stars however because it is a good book for someone that has never used a computer before and is getting one with OS X on it.Just disappointed by it's marketing targets. ... Read more

Isbn: 076151984X
Sales Rank: 795767
Subjects:  1. Apple And Macintosh Programming    2. Computer Bks - Apple / Macintosh    3. Computer Books: General    4. Computers    5. Hardware - Personal Computers - Macintosh    6. Operating Systems - General    7. Operating Systems - Macintosh    8. Operating systems (Computers)    9. Computers / Operating Systems / General   

Mac OS X: The Missing Manual
by David Pogue
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (15 December, 2001)
list price: $24.95
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Editorial Review

Widely esteemed Mac authority David Pogue weighs in on the latest offering from Cupertino with Mac OS X: The Missing Manual. It's a fact-packed romp through the operating system and the extras that come with it, made resoundingly more readable by the depth of Pogue's knowledge, his familiarity with Mac history, and his eagerness to engage novices as members of the Mac user community. Unlike most books about Mac OS X, this one explores its Unix-like underpinnings (the Apple implementation is called Darwin) pretty thoroughly. However, based on the logic that if you wanted to use Unix, you would, Pogue emphasizes the traditional, graphical Mac interface over the Terminal window.

Pogue, who's written about Macs for years and whose professional qualifications extend beyond computers (he's an orchestral conductor), writes about Macs at the user level with clarity. He's also quite good at dealing with the numerous options and variations that apply to Mac procedures, and makes very good use of sidebars for clarifying details. In a section on printing, for example, Pogue explains why there's no longer an option to turn off background printing (true multitasking has rendered the option obsolete). There's also good coverage of the online iTools, tailored to people unfamiliar with integrating remote resources into their personal computing environments. --David Wall

Topics covered: Apple Mac OS X for people who will use the operating system, either on a standalone computer with Internet access or on a computer that is part of a home or organizational network. Running applications (in Classic mode as well as in native Mac OS X mode), printing, networking, multimedia, security (including Keychain), and utilities are all covered. ... Read more

Reviews (114)

A very useful book!
As a student, I often go to college to use computers. Most of computers are Apple computers. Because I was new to MAC OS. I have to look around to find a good book. After I found this book and there is also big discount from couponsky.com, I decide to buy it. After using the book for 6 months, I found it is very helpful. It is a user-level book. It tells me every features and application in MAC OS based computer. I recommend this book to students like me.

Pogue's in vogue but aint informed
I bought this book to help me switch from Winduhs. It's a lotta words and I later read in his New York Times column that he "types" by dictation into .. I think Dragon Naturally Speaking on a Winduhs based machine (uh hu). The book's contents could have been cut down to less than a hundred pages-- but these books are sold by the kilo anyway. He didn't really know the OS he just banged out a quick book to earn ayep a quick buck. I read his "consumer" columns in the NYtimes and find them useful but this book wasn't. Oh yeah and the switch ...... to Mac .... over rated but OK.

Great book for mac owners...
I switched to Mac OS X from windows and this book was the only reason I stayed! It helped me get a grasp of Mac OS X quickly. It even gives you great tips that will increase your productivity. I used a coupon from UnderTag.com, so it was almost free for me too. ... Read more

Isbn: 0596000820
Subjects:  1. Apple And Macintosh Programming    2. Computer Bks - Apple / Macintosh    3. Computer Books: General    4. Computers    5. Hardware - Personal Computers - Macintosh    6. Operating Systems - Macintosh    7. Operating systems (Computers)    8. Macintosh    9. Macintosh OS    10. Handbooks, manuals, etc    11. Mac OS    12. Macintosh (Computer)    13. Computer operating systems   

Mac OS X Version 10.1 Black Book: The Reference Guide for Power Users
by Mark R. Bell Debrah D. Suggs
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (25 January, 2002)
list price: $49.99 -- our price: $32.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

Apple's OS X is the biggest leap forward in the Mac experience since the shift to color, but because it is a richer, deeper, and more complex operating system than any previous version, the problems associated with it are proportionally more difficult. The Mac OS X Black Book introduces the new OS X user to the interface, tools, and underlying UNIX core at the heart of this old and new operating system, but more importantly, it illustrates how to troubleshoot many of the common problems that new users are likely to find themselves up against.

The book covers almost everything the OS X newbie needs to know, including installation, tweaking the system for improved performance, compatibility with pre-OS X apps (Classic mode) as well as non-Mac networks, connecting to the Internet, printing, and troubleshooting.

The authors never shy away from the fact that OS X is an operating system based on UNIX, and nearly every chapter has at least some reference to the non-Mac underlying structure. We see this as early as chapter 2, where we are told we can view the text version of the startup process as the Mac boots up by holding down CMD+V. In the chapter covering multiple users, we learn about permissions and the importance of the "Root" account. And we even have an appendix that covers using Terminal and UNIX shell commands.

Does all this mean you need to learn UNIX to use OS X? Not at all. But problems do arise from time to time where it can't be avoided. During those times, it's nice to have a "Black Book" on hand to get you through the rough spots. Good illustrations, a clean design, and an approachable written style make this book one of the more valuable OS X references available. --Mike Caputo ... Read more

Reviews (4)

A beginner book... Not a "black" book...
I was looking at a great reference book to go far inside MacOS X....
NetInfo is talked about only half a page !
I just have it on my library and will never open it again... :-/

Not for Power Users
I find the book informative and well written, but this is not for power users. It contains beginner information and how to use popular 3rd party utilities. The book lacks depth, and Unix shell is in an appendix. If you are looking for a book to explore the unix side of Mac OS X, look elsewhere. If you are looking on how to set up your user environment and are looking for some possible shareware or 3rd party utilities to enhance your use of OS X, then this is for you.

This book is targeted to the wrong audience. It is an intermediate book. I say skip it.

Buy Mac OS X Unleashed

Mac OS X Version 10.1 Black Book
This is a good book for any user of Mac OS X. It can be very basic in its instructions and descriptions, but can also prove to be a good reference book for the more advanced user. It you are a complete UNIX nerd, skip it and buy a UNIX specific book. This book should answer many of your OS X questions. ... Read more

Isbn: 1576106063
Subjects:  1. Apple And Macintosh Programming    2. Computer Bks - Apple / Macintosh    3. Computer Books And Software    4. Computer operating systems    5. Computers    6. Hardware - Personal Computers - Macintosh    7. Macintosh (Computer)    8. Operating Systems - Macintosh    9. Operating Systems - NT    10. Operating systems (Computers)   

Apple Powerbook Notebook (400-MHz PowerPC G4, 128 MB RAM, 10 GB hard drive)
Average Customer Review:
Personal Computers

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Editorial Review

While this PowerBook model can't compare to its fully tricked-out big brother (the 500 MHz, 256 MB, 20 GB version), it's nonetheless an impressive product. Take a look at the 15.2-inch, wide-aspect-ratio screen in a sleek titanium case and it's hard not to drool with envy. Whether your goal is to author multimedia or just to have the ultimate road-warrior toy, the PowerBook could be the notebook for you. This model offers a 400 MHz PowerPC G4 processor, 128 MB of RAM, and a DVD-ROM drive. Its 10 GB hard disk drive is not huge by current standards, but offers ample space for most storage needs.A modem and networking are standard, as are signature Mac extras such as FireWire ports. The system comes with both the classic Mac OS 9 and the slick new Mac OSX installed. ... Read more

Reviews (20)

I'm in love
A one word review would suffice: "WOW!!!"

But, I will elaborate.....:-)This is the best laptop I've ever owned.It is my fourth Macintosh is just under three years.My first was a clamshell iBook.I then owned a PowerBook G3 and an eMac G4 but decided that I wanted portability in my G4.I bought this PowerBook G4 667 and never looked back.This was the most intelligent purchase I've ever made in the computer world.

Apple designed a truly wonderful products.It is speedy, beautiful, and functional.I could not ask for more in a notebook computer.Thanks, Apple!I'm now a dedicated and loyal user.

The PowerBook G4 is an amazing machine
This is a beautiful computer.I have no complaints.I love it!

Move on up to 1GHz, 667 is yesterdays news
This machine had it's day, but it is past.An 800MHz G4 is the *entry level* machine.I benchmark these (and PC based) laptops all day, and I can tell you that the total platform performance of this machine is about that of a newer Celeron based laptop (the older graphics on this model subsystem doesn't help).

Instead look at the 1GHz G4 which has a top of the line ATI 9000 GPU as well as a decently clocked G4 to go with it.Now that is a nice Powerbook.Anything less is really a waste of money ... Read more

Asin: B00005IA5C
Subjects:  1. (Mac)    2. (Macintosh)    3. (Power Book)    4. Apple    5. PowerBook    6. Notebooks (Note Books)    7. Notebook Computers    8. Laptops (Lap Tops)   

Apple Power Mac Desktop M8360LL/A (867-MHz PowerPC G4, 128 MB RAM, 60 GB hard drive)
Average Customer Review:
Personal Computers

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Editorial Review

There's simply no better multimedia desktop than a fully-loaded Power Mac. High-speed FireWire connections, a SuperDrive that can read and write both DVDs and CDs, great graphics--what more could you ask for? The Power Mac is also appealing as a high-end business computer or even a gaming desktop. The technical specs are nothing short of mouthwatering: an 867 MHz PowerPC G4 process or, 60 GB hard disk drive, and nVidia GeForce2 MX graphics card. It comes with 128 MB of memory standard, but with support for up to 1.5 GB and its easy-access case design, memory upgrades are easy. Like all Power Macs, this model includes blazing 1 Gbps Ethernet networking and a 56K modem. The system comes with both the classic Mac OS 9 and the slick new Mac OS X installed. ... Read more

Reviews (11)

Works great
We have 3 of these that we use for our college newspaper.They work great because each one has zip drives in them and we don't have to worry about the format of the disk.We can just take the disk from computer to computer, which makes sharing and transferring graphics much easier.

One problem that I seem to have is, being used to my HP Pavilion, I will click on the X on the left, but I forget to close the program.After crashing the computer a few times, I learn my lesson.

Bad Computers
Mac user for 6 years bought 2 dual 800 end of Sept. and within in a month both machines had processors replaced. Started to work on them again and the logic board went out.Apples respones to this was give me 2 more 800, NO THANK YOU!Aftera couple of weeks delay were not going to chance it and Apple says to bad. Guess the attorney is going to make some money.

Schwing!
I've had this baby for about 4 months now... what a delight. Adjacent to my G4 is a Dell 1.3ghz Pentium III. The clock speed means nada. I fire them up at the same time each morning and about a full minute after the Mac is busy opening applications for me, the Pentium is just starting to show the icons on the desktp.As chip architecture gets improved, you're going to see the Win-Tel crowd also saying that "clock speed doesn't matter" because newer Intel chips will be rated at 300mhz, but be faster than the 1.3gig P3 chips.

To compare a Mac and a Wintel machine is like comparing a pick axe to a chainsaw. Each have their uses, levels of complexity and levels of simplicity.

The dual processor won't do you a heck of a lot of good if you never use OS X. Only a couple of OS 9 apps utilize the dual processors.... OS X is all over that bad boy.

For now, I still work 90% of the time in Classic mode, but this machine still sings. I haven't hadone lock-up or crash since I bought this computer. The standard keyboard has been improved and fits normal human adult hands. The power key on the keyboard has been replaced by an eject key, and next to that are "volume up," "volume down," and "mute" buttons for quick volume access.

The CPU is beautiful, stylish and easy to carry. The built-in speaker is classy and delivers decent sound for an internal speaker.

If you're a grahic artist, designer or web developer, this is the machine for you. Using programs like Photoshop and Illustrator in a Windows environment is just clumsy and awkward... graphics programs are meant to run on a Mac.

This is also the best choice for those wanting to create their own movies,CDs, mp3 collections and DVDs. No extra hardware or software to buy... just plug in your camcorder, CD or mp3 player and go!Easy, trouble free, and Koko the Gorilla could add RAM to this machine... no screwdrivers... just open up the latch and snap in your memory. This is the best computer I've ever used. ... Read more

Asin: B00005NK38
Subjects:  1. Power Mac    2. (PowerMac)    3. Desktops (Desk Tops)    4. Desktop Computers    5. Apple    6. (Mac)    7. (Macintosh)   

Apple M7649Zm/AStudio Display 17" LCD Monitor
Average Customer Review:
Electronics
list price: $700.00
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Editorial Review

Form races neck and neck with function in the sleekly styled 17-inch TFT Apple Studio Display. Weighing in at less than 15 pounds, this impressive monitor provides a thin-film transistor active-matrix display that offers real clarity in a pint-sized package. The 1,280 x 1,024 dpi resolution combines with the 350:1 contrast ratio and more than 16 million saturated colors to provide ultrasharp detail and vivid images for graphics professional. An antiglare hard coat and widescreen viewing angles provide excellent versatility in the workplace, while the single display connector combines USB, power, and digital video to keep your desktop clutter free. The manufacturer includes a one-year warranty that covers parts and service. ... Read more

Features

• Fast pixel response; 2 USB ports
• 17-inch thin-film transistor LCD produces 16.7 million colors
• 1,280 x 1,024 resolution, high 350:1 contrast ratio
• Beautifully bright with up to 170-degree viewing angle
• Designed for Power Mac G4

Reviews (5)

At least as good as anybody else's LCD
Let's see, there are too many cool things about this display. It costs about the same as any of the other premium LCD panels at this size (you can get a cheaper one, but you usually give up contrast, viewing angle, or speed). You get a single cable attachment to your Power Mac (carries video, power, and USB) which saves a lot of clutter. You get a pair of USB ports on the monitor which most others don't offer, despite it's convenience. And it just looks too darn cool on the desk next to the Power Mac.

Love it.

I'm really happy
I just bought this flat-panel at the recently reduced price, and I'm totally happy with it. It's got a much smaller footprint than my old 17" monitor, it's bright, easy on the eyes, and a total breeze to set up.

I was a little leary of ordering such a "delicate" item online, but then realized Apple would have to ship it to me, just the same. It arrived fine, and without any dead pixels.

At the new, lower price, you really can't go wrong.

The best flat panel monitor.
Flat panel momitors have two major advantages: the entire surface of the display is usable (thus a 17" flat panel monitor gives as large a working surface as a 19" CRT monitor) and they don't take up a lot of desk space as CRT monitors do. But most flat panel monitors have the disadvantage that their image is not quite as sharp as the best CRT monitors. This Apple monitor gives you the best of both types. It has the size advantages typical of flat panel monitors and it has the crisp, sharp image quality of the best CRT monitors. Yes, it's more expensive than the average flat panel monitor; but if you want CRT image quality with the size advantages of a flat panel monitor this is the one to get. ... Read more

Asin: B00005NKXC
Subjects:  1. (Mac)    2. (Macintosh)    3. monitors, lcd    4. Flatpanel Monitor (Flat Panel Monitors)    5. Mac Macintosh Machintosh Apple    6. Apple