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.


Book 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.


Book Info
(IDG Books Worldwide) A friendly guide to the new Macintosh OS X, a Unix-fueled operating system. Shows how to save time when connecting to the Internet, take advantage of the new customization features, navigate the OS desktop, and capitalize on network sharing tools. Softcover.


From the Back Cover
Get a handle on the new Dock, the revamped Finder, and more Get up to speed with Mac OS X in no time The fun and easy way™ to take Mac OS X to the max Whether you're a longtime Mac user or you just bought your first Mac, let renowned Mac expert Bob LeVitus show you how to polish your Apple. From Desktop basics to more advanced tweaks, you'll soon be zipping along on Apple's powerful new Unix-fueled operating system. Discover how to: Navigate the OS X desktop Take advantage of new customization features Capitalize on network sharing tools Get connected to the Internet fast Save time with simple tips The Dummies Way™ Explanations in plain English "Get in, get out" information Icons and other navigational aids Tear-out cheat sheet Top ten lists A dash of humor and fun Get smart! www.dummies.com Sign up for daily eTips at www.dummiesdaily.com Choose from among 33 different subject categories Get news you can use on everything from money to health to computers


About the Author
Bob LeVitus's Macintosh books, which include Dr. Macintosh, Stupid Mac Tricks, and The Internet For iMacs For Dummies, have sold over a million copies. Shelly Brisbin is the author of Mac Answers! (with Bob) and other Mac books.

FROM THE PUBLISHER

Get a handle on the new Dock, the revamped Finder, and more

Get up to speed with Mac OS X in no time

The fun and easy way™ to take Mac OS X to the max Whether you're a longtime Mac user or you just bought your first Mac, let renowned Mac expert Bob LeVitus show you how to polish your Apple. From Desktop basics to more advanced tweaks, you'll soon be zipping along on Apple's powerful new Unix-fueled operating system.

Discover how to: Navigate the OS X desktop Take advantage of new customization features Capitalize on network sharing tools Get connected to the Internet fast Save time with simple tips

The Dummies Way™ Explanations in plain English "Get in, get out" information Icons and other navigational aids Tear-out cheat sheet Top ten lists A dash of humor and fun

Get smart! Sign up for daily eTips. Choose from among 33 different subject categories Get news you can use on everything from money to health to computers

SYNOPSIS