Hacking Mac OS X Tiger

December 1, 2005
As the halo effect from Apple's iPod continues, slowly increasing the popularity of Macs, libraries should stock sufficient guides to Mac OS X Tiger (see also Computer Media, LJ 9/1/05). This set of guides contains something for everyone. Beginners and those switching from Windows will appreciate Maran Illustrated, with its full-color labeled screen shots; step-by-step instructions; straightforward, minimal verbiage; and extra tips. It outlines every basic activity, from Mac OS X basics and customization to applications and web browsing. Recommended for all libraries. On the other end of the spectrum, the self-study guide Mac OS X Support Essentials is based on Apple's official training course for help desk personnel, technicians, and system administrators who support and troubleshoot Macs running OS X; it will also help those working toward Apple Certified Help Desk Specialist (ACHDS) certification. Beginning with installation and moving through topics like the command-line interface, networking, and troubleshooting, Support Essentials will help anyone providing support in a Mac environment. For larger libraries.

Targeting beginning to intermediate users, Leo Laporte's Guide includes more background and depth and less step-by-step instruction than Maran. He details why and how to use various features while notes, tips, cautions, and sidebars add info. A final section on utilities, troubleshooting, and security is particularly useful in this thorough guide to OS X use for all libraries. Take Control of Tiger combines four previous ebooks (on upgrading, customizing, users and accounts, and file sharing) in one print title; free updates are available online. Heavy on bulleted lists and step-by-step instructions, the four self-contained sections are concise and easy to follow, but those seeking information on one of these topics may not need the others. A supplemental purchase for medium and larger libraries. Hacking targets those willing to tinker to customize and optimize their OS X Tiger machines in three gradually more complicated sections: tips, mods, and hacks. Sample code is available online, and readers will welcome its enthusiastic tone and useful tips (though the last section will be most useful to those with a programming background). For larger libraries.

Billing itself as -the ultimate collection of Mac OS X sidebar tips (without the sidebars), - Killer Tips offers brief how-tos on -cool stuff - for intermediate users. Full-color screen shots illustrate each; sections range from window tips to iLife tips. A chapter on -cheap tricks - includes pranks to pull on unsuspecting OS X users, including creating fake dialog boxes and rotating the screen image upside-down or sideways. A fun supplementary purchase for medium and larger libraries. A thorough reference for all levels, Mastering will be especially useful to upgraders and basic-level users wanting to enhance their knowledge. Coverage of new features and troubleshooting information are especially useful, while appendixes include installation and setup, a classic Mac user's migration guide, and an applications guide. Appropriate for all libraries.

Copyright 2005 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.