Andy's Un-Official Unsolicited Mac Advice Thread

[RogersDA]

I suspend, and have have a Win XP system running for months and months and months :thumbThanks, Andy.

I have to say, too, that this Mac is soooooooo much easier to configure (load software, peripherals, etc.) than a windows-based machine. While there are still a few small things I have not figured out how to do (yet), I am still amazed how simple this thing is.

[Mike Lane]

Thanks, Andy.

I have to say, too, that this Mac is soooooooo much easier to configure (load software, peripherals, etc.) than a windows-based machine. While there are still a few small things I have not figured out how to do (yet), I am still amazed how simple this thing is.Try cmd ~, without it I would hate my mac :deal Not even stevie jay can expect me to use my mouse to switch between all my open windows of one piece of software.

Now if the photoshop devs would quit being ridiculous and get on board with apple's way of doing things (control tab??? seriously wtf?) I'd be completely happy.

[CatOne]

Now if the photoshop devs would quit being ridiculous and get on board with apple's way of doing things (control tab??? seriously wtf?) I'd be completely happy.

They've proven to like legacy :wink

Command-H doesn't hide the app (which is Mac standard), and is command-comma preferences? I really can't recall.

[colourbox]

Now if the photoshop devs would quit being ridiculous and get on board with apple's way of doing things (control tab??? seriously wtf?) I'd be completely happy.

Photoshop product manager John Nack has recently blogged about this upcoming change (http://blogs.adobe.com/jnack/2008/06/some_thoughts_about_platform_consistency.html).

When Apple introduced OS X, they decided to implement some new conventions for shortcuts...Cmd-~ (technically Cmd-`) cycles among open documents. Over time the OS has appropriated more and more shortcuts that have been used by Photoshop...This puts us in a tough position...As it happens, I expect we'll change Photoshop to use Cmd-~ to cycle among document windows. PS already supports the Windows-standard Ctrl-Tab for this function on both platforms, and by honoring both conventions we can offer cross-platform consistency. This move will undoubtedly frustrate people who rely on Cmd-~ for displaying the composite channel...

[cabbey]

They've proven to like legacy :wink

Command-H doesn't hide the app (which is Mac standard), and is command-comma preferences? I really can't recall.

Nope.

But really, if we're going to lambast them for broken crud... how about we start with the updater. :puke


Even Windows Update is better implemented.

[CatOne]

Nope.

But really, if we're going to lambast them for broken crud... how about we start with the updater. :puke


Even Windows Update is better implemented.

:puke is right ;-)

Their updater and installer are both awful. Their installers are completely proprietary on both platforms, which makes them a huge pain in the ass to install in managed environments. It's awful.

And don't get me started on the fact that there are two versions of Adobe Help Viewer (1.0 and 1.1) installed because their document formats are incompatible. They truly have a number of craptastic things. Photoshop is powerful, but man do they have a lot of unnecessary complexity and legacy. I don't need to get started :D

[ian408]

Someone stopped by and asked for the magic to do "focus-follows-mouse" in a terminal window. I'd found the answer for myself and passed along the following:


Open a terminal window
In the window, type:
defaults write com.apple.Terminal FocusFollowsMouse -string YES
Restart the terminal window

Once the app restarts, you can mouse over any open terminal window and have focus.

[TexPhotog]

Ok... so here's my question

I am in the market for a new Apple laptop...

How should I spend the $$$ that I don't have

MacBook (Pros/Cons, why/why not)

MacBook Air (Pros/Cons, why/why not)

MacBook Pro (Pros/Cons, why/why not)

I plan to keep using my Windows XP Pro for regular use, so the Apple laptop will only be used to edit photos and video (Photoshop/Premiere, Final Cut Pro, Avid and such...)

Any thoughts, ideas, comments and/or advice is greatly appreciated...

Thanks.

[Davidoff]

Ok... so here's my question

I am in the market for a new Apple laptop...

How should I spend the $$$ that I don't have

MacBook (Pros/Cons, why/why not)

MacBook Air (Pros/Cons, why/why not)

MacBook Pro (Pros/Cons, why/why not)

I plan to keep using my Windows XP Pro for regular use, so the Apple laptop will only be used to edit photos and video (Photoshop/Premiere, Final Cut Pro, Avid and such...)

Any thoughts, ideas, comments and/or advice is greatly appreciated...

Thanks.

For that use, MBP, no doubt. The other 2 are a good bit worst in that department, because they don't have a proper graphics card, 13" screens and less processor power if I'm not mistaken.

[DavidTO]

Why are you going to continue to use XP?

FCP and Avid?

[pathfinder]

The MacBook Air is too small,too slow, and too weak for a real Photoshop workhorse ( my opinion entirely - but I looked at it seriously when it came out)

The decision between the MacBook and the MacBook Pro is much more nuanced, and finally comes down to whether you can afford the difference when they are fully loaded up.

A MacBook is nice, but are you really going to be happy editing on that 13 inch screen? I know I am not, even with a 15 in screen, I vastly prefer my desktop Cinema Display.

MBP $1999

15 in Nvidea 8600M GT with 256 MB RAM, 2.4 Ghz Core 2 Duo, 200 GB HD, double layer drive DVD, 2 Gb RAM



MB black cover $1499

13 in screen without its own video card 2.4 Ghz Core 2 Duo, 2 GB RAM, 250GB HD, double layer drive


$500 buys you a bigger LCD with its own video card and no system memory used for video


Needless to say, I bought a MacBook Pro w 4 Gb RAM

[TexPhotog]

Why are you going to continue to use XP?

FCP and Avid?

Well... I have 2 XP laptops, so XP will stay as my main business-work-school all around laptops.

I can always format, reformat and mess around with it, it is usually connected to my DSL

The Mac will be used just for photo/video work... I only want to add the programs to I need in it w/out connecting it to the internet (if I do, I'll end up using IT for surfing and I rather surf on the XP, that way, if I catch anything on XP, I can always reformat and start from scratch). I want a nice clean machine for work.

FCP and/or Avid will be used for video editing, not yet HD, but SD from a Sony DSR-PD 170

[Davidoff]

I'm a windows user, but I don't think you have to worry about " catch anything " on the mac.

Either way, I'd also recommend you get the cheapest hard drive and the minumum ram, because you can buy those components yourself, much cheaper, and install them yourself as well without voiding the warranty.

[DavidTO]

Well... I have 2 XP laptops, so XP will stay as my main business-work-school all around laptops.

I can always format, reformat and mess around with it, it is usually connected to my DSL

The Mac will be used just for photo/video work... I only want to add the programs to I need in it w/out connecting it to the internet (if I do, I'll end up using IT for surfing and I rather surf on the XP, that way, if I catch anything on XP, I can always reformat and start from scratch). I want a nice clean machine for work.

FCP and/or Avid will be used for video editing, not yet HD, but SD from a Sony DSR-PD 170


Dude. Your life is way too complicated. :deal

You won't catch anything if you connect your Mac to the net.

Why get it at all if you're going to impose all of those restrictions? :dunno

[Davidoff]

Dude. Your life is way too complicated. :deal

You won't catch anything if you connect your Mac to the net.

Why get it at all if you're going to impose all of those restrictions? :dunno

Absolutely, why don't you just sell all the redundant computers and get a nicer mac ? :deal

[DavidTO]

What kind of business-work-school stuff are you doing? And why would it require an XP machine?

FCP kicks Avid's butt, anyday, btw. :D

[NikonsandVstroms]

the Mac book Pro is definitely the one. Just don't forget the protection plan, expensive things break on computers all the time and I've had a few friends saved by that with their Macs

[tjstrider]

If you already have so many XP laptops why don't you get an iMac... it is about the same as a Macbook Pro just in desktop format...

they are really nice... great screens.

[Davidoff]

Also a good idea, the 24" iMac is more powerful. Also... 24" screen.

[Pupator]

Anyone need an extra power adapter for their Macbook air? My local Best Buy has them for <$40. I'd be happy to pick one up for somebody if there was a need.

[TexPhotog]

What kind of business-work-school stuff are you doing? And why would it require an XP machine?

FCP kicks Avid's butt, anyday, btw. :D

Well...

Now, take into consideration that my XP laptops are old... one is a Pentium II 400Mhz (about 6 yrs old), and my "newer" one is a P4 1.6 w/only a gig of ram.

Software wise, I have MS Office for one, I've already paid for it in one, Star Office on another one, Quicken, mIRC, some PC games, an HDTV external tuner...

Avid Media Composer has both Mac & PC versions on the same DVD, which I can get for $299.99 w/school discount (and Avid is used @ one of the TV stations that I do freelance work for, so it fits onto their workflow).

Why a Mac... from what I've heard, editing HD video is a lot easier on a Mac, especially if I do use FCP, which I can also get w/a school discount.

[TexPhotog]

Also a good idea, the 24" iMac is more powerful. Also... 24" screen.

But, I can't take it with me to school (and yes, when I say school I mean photo/video work, not like research papers and such.... which is what I'd use the XP machines for :D )

[colourbox]

Don't forget that after you buy the Mac, you might not need your XP laptops anymore if you put XP on a Boot Camp partition so you can boot into XP whenever you want. Or run XP in virtualization inside OS X so you don't even have to reboot to get into XP.

[TexPhotog]

Don't forget that after you buy the Mac, you might not need your XP laptops anymore if you put XP on a Boot Camp partition so you can boot into XP whenever you want. Or run XP in virtualization inside OS X so you don't even have to reboot to get into XP.

Yeah... you just hit the nail...

That is exactly what I don't want to do... I don't want to clutter the Mac w/useless stuff... I want it for photo/video editing and nothing else...

My newer XP laptop was supposed to be just for photo/video work... and now it has so much junk in it... :rofl

[Moogle Pepper]

Just organize and maintain! It is so much easier to just have one laptop than keeping one as a specialy workhorse. if you are worried about space, you can upgrade the HDD or use an external. :wink

[Pupator]

So here's a funny story.

I've been without a notebook for a while and it's killing me. I'm not as productive work-wise because I have to be sitting at my desk to work. I miss out on some family time because if I need to use the computer I have to use the desktop (way back in the guest bedroom).

I hadn't pulled the trigger because I just couldn't find what I was looking for: thin, light (>3lbs), 12-13" screen, normal keyboard. I had thought about an eee1000h, but the screen (at 10") is just a bit too small. I'd found a Sony that would have been perfect, but it was almost $2000.

The other day one of my friends said to me: "Why not just get a Macbook Air and put Vista on it." Duh. Why hadn't I thought of that? And with the prices on e-bay for new Airs now being ~$1300 - it's not so bad on the wallet (though not easy!).

Anyway - thought it was funny that the biggest quasi-MS fanboy (I like to say "Vista Advocate") now has a Mac for a laptop. :) Don't worry, a few hours after I get it I'll have Vista with all my MS apps up and running. :rofl

[Pupator]

MBA is here! Absolutely stunning hardware - as I expected. Now I just have to wait on Software update to do its thing before I can use boot camp to get Vista on here.:barb

[Moogle Pepper]

You are using a macbook air to run Vista...:scratch:rofl

[Pupator]

Yep. I can't find another computer (hardware) that matches the features for what I want - light, portable, 13" screen, bluetooth - other than a $1900 Sony. So I got a used MBA for quite a bit less than that and put Vista on it.

It runs really, really well and so far is exactly what I was hoping it would be. Why would I switch OSs when 1) I really like Vista 2) Both of my desktops (home and work) are Vista?

[DavidTO]

Yep. I can't find another computer (hardware) that matches the features for what I want - light, portable, 13" screen, bluetooth - other than a $1900 Sony. So I got a used MBA for quite a bit less than that and put Vista on it.

It runs really, really well and so far is exactly what I was hoping it would be. Why would I switch OSs when 1) I really like Vista 2) Both of my desktops (home and work) are Vista?


I'll tell you a funny story... :D

OK, not really funny. But every time I use an MS product I want to take a sledge hammer to my computer.

Office. I got the upgrade. MS decides to set the prefs to a new file format, without a word of warning. So my wife is unknowingly saving all these .docx files that none of her coworkers can open. I changed her prefs to save as .doc, then looked at the damage. Ugh. Open them all and save as one by one? I don't think so. So I look around on the net, and find that MS has a converter to change them into .rtf files. Fine. I go to download it, and the thing is a MONSTER. It's (IIRC) 77mb, and expands to over 100mb. Most apps I have are less than that, and they DO MORE THAN ONE THING! Lightroom is a smaller app than this convert app. How friggin' ridiculous is that?

Anyway, I got the files converted, and had to go back and delete all the extras.

Using Word: I had to use Word at work for some TV scripts. OMG I hate that app. It's constantly getting in my way and annoying me. Paste something, and that friggin' icon shows up in the middle of your page, making you click it away. Formatting at the end of the doc constantly reverts to some default, even though I've selected all and set the font for the page. It's huge and slow. Slow. Slow. Slow. And this is the new intel native app, not running in the Rosetta emulator. I mean, it's not any faster than it was before when it was running in Rosetta. It's pathetically slow. And Stupid. And Dum.

:D

There, I've said my peace. Or piece. I'm never sure which.

[Pupator]

:dunno Almost everyone I know knew about the file format change between Office 03 and 07, but I hang out with Windows people (except online). There's a compatibility patch you can install on any computer with Office 03 that will allow it to open all the .---x files.

Still, I understand that it's different strokes for different folks - right? I like Word for the most part and haven't been nearly as frustrated by it as you (or I wouldn't use it). Word and Outlook 2007 are running great on my Macbook - but I'm in bootcamp so maybe that makes the difference?

What do you use for document editing now?

[DavidTO]

:dunno Almost everyone I know knew about the file format change between Office 03 and 07. There's a compatibility patch you can install on any computer with Office 03 that will allow it to open all the .---x files.

Still, I understand that different strokes for different folks - right? I like Word for the most part and haven't been nearly as frustrated by it as you (or I wouldn't use it). Word and Outlook 2007 are running great on my Macbook - but I'm in bootcamp so maybe that makes the difference?

What do you use for document editing now?


I'm talking about supporting my wife in Office. She's the type where I say click on the desktop, and she says "the what?" And really, I don't care who knew, it's stupid to set the prefs to a new format that most of the world can't open. Sure they can get the doohickey, but they just haven't.

I think Word works as it should on my Mac, I just think it's an overblown pile of crap. :D

I use TextEdit when possible. It does little, but it's lean and fast. I use Pages when I need more. I can always export to .doc files when I need to.

The first time I load Word after not having used it for a bit, it takes a full 21 seconds to load. Somehow (cache files?) it's only 5 or 6 seconds after that if I reopen it. Pages loads in 2.

Yah, different strokes. And for both Word/Pages and Excel/Numbers the MS products have a lot of bloat, but they also have features that many find essential that the Apple products are missing. On the Numbers/Excel front, I LOVE how Numbers can put multiple sheets on one page. That's so simple and elegant and awesome, IMO.

Glad you're happy with the MBA, BTW. And looks like you got a decent price on it.

[Ann McRae]

.docx files that none of her coworkers can open.
Using Word: Formatting at the end of the doc constantly reverts to some default, It's pathetically slow. And Stupid. And Dum.

:D

There, I've said my peace. Or piece. I'm never sure which.

David
At my work, our IT dept still has us on Office 2000. Clients send us docs that we cannot open. I end up bringing them home to open and save as....:rolleyes
Of the various versions of Word and Excel, I actually like the changes in 2007(Office 07 on the dhs XP machine is pretty nice...) , but I totally agree about the Word formatting nonsense. It can take twice as long to get the formatting right than to write a friggin thesis!!!

ann

[DavidTO]

I really don't want to bash MS. I just don't get the way they think. But like Pupator says, some do. :dunno I just don't get it.

But what's really pathetic is the new ad (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=afR5J7eskno) with Jerry Seinfeld that kicks off the ad campaign he's getting $10 million for.

I think Seinfeld has just jumped the shark. At the very least this thing could be funny. :dunno

[CatOne]

Is that a churro? :dunno

[colourbox]

I think Seinfeld has just jumped the shark. At the very least this thing could be funny. :dunno

It's the start of a series. I'm not going to judge it yet any more than we should judge any good TV series, like Seinfeld, by the first couple shows they made.

[DavidTO]

It's the start of a series. I'm not going to judge it yet any more than we should judge any good TV series, like Seinfeld, by the first couple shows they made.


It's an ad, not a TV show. Huge difference. And I cut it no slack. :deal

[Pupator]

I think the ad is boring, but I understand why. They want to make Jerry and Bill likable and make their friendship believable before they start trying to sell you on MS products. So I'll reserve judgment until I see the rest but it was pretty boring.

Ann,

If you can get your IT department to allow you to install this you'll be able to open the office 2007 files:

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyId=941B3470-3AE9-4AEE-8F43-C6BB74CD1466&displaylang=en

[colourbox]

It's an ad, not a TV show. Huge difference. And I cut it no slack. :deal

Yeah, I know it isn't a TV show. But obviously they don't want us to see it as an ad, even though we all know. I think they hope we'll all follow the ad series and talk about it, and the Windows Vista fanboys* will collect the ads like the way Mac fanboys archive all those Apple ads on fansites and YouTube.

I'm not saying it's gonna work...I'm just sayin'. :dunno

*rarely observed outside of captivity

[RogersDA]

I need a program that can search a folder or folders for duplicate files, with at least the criteria of looking at the filename and not the extension.

I've looked and can't really find anything that is free that looks good.

Any suggestions?

[DavidTO]

I need a program that can search a folder or folders for duplicate files, with at least the criteria of looking at the filename and not the extension.

I've looked and can't really find anything that is free that looks good.

Any suggestions?


Chipmunk (http://www.chipmunk-app.com/). (not free, but has demo mode)

And for searches, versiontracker (http://www.versiontracker.com/macosx/).

[ChrisJ]

Does anyone know (or have a guess) when the next major revision of the MacBook Pro will be out? Or do they just do incremental upgrades as new processors come out?

Looking to upgrade my work PowerBook G4 (and possibly replace my ThinkPad T41).

Thanks...

[DavidTO]

Does anyone know (or have a guess) when the next major revision of the MacBook Pro will be out? Or do they just do incremental upgrades as new processors come out?

Looking to upgrade my work PowerBook G4 (and possibly replace my ThinkPad T41).

Thanks...


I dunno if it'll be major, but a revision should be out soon-ish. You can read up on it and related rumors here (http://buyersguide.macrumors.com/).

[ChrisJ]

I dunno if it'll be major, but a revision should be out soon-ish. You can read up on it and related rumors here (http://buyersguide.macrumors.com/).
Perfect, exactly what I was looking for... Not sure I really need a quad-core, but I do like the hard drive replacement underneath the battery.

Thanks!

[Pupator]

Perfect, exactly what I was looking for... Not sure I really need a quad-core, but I do like the hard drive replacement underneath the battery.

Thanks!

Daring fireball says October 14th. He's (John Gruber) not usually wrong.

[RogersDA]

I need a very good sound card for the MacPro. I never realized when I ordered it that the sounds were that bad and that there was no sound card option when ordering. I didn't think about then because there was not prompt when configuring that feature. :scratch

So - what to get? I plan on using my 5.1 speaker system from the now-dead PC.

[cabbey]

I need a very good sound card for the MacPro. I never realized when I ordered it that the sounds were that bad and that there was no sound card option when ordering. I didn't think about then because there was not prompt when configuring that feature. :scratch

So - what to get? I plan on using my 5.1 speaker system from the now-dead PC.

If you want "very good", skip the sound card and just use the built in digital optical out to drive a good receiver. I've used that setup to drive the $4M theatre sound system in a 500 seat hall with rocking results.

[BradfordBenn]

If you want "very good", skip the sound card and just use the built in digital optical out to drive a good receiver. I've used that setup to drive the $4M theatre sound system in a 500 seat hall with rocking results.

I do this audio stuff for the real day job and Cabbey is correct, the digital out is better it is staying in the digital domain, however you have just moved the limiting factor to the receiver. It will be the one doing the decoding from the bitstream back to analog that we can hear. So another question might be, can you define what you are looking to do with it? The choices can range from a US$10,000 decoder without an amplifier to $200 everything included. Just like cameras, you kind of need to define what you want to do with it.

If all that you want is to not hear the clock tick from the inexpensive converters and op-amps in the MacBook pro there are solutions. If you just want to use the Mac as a DVD player and have 5.1 sound in your theater there are solutions. So can you provide a little more insight into what you are wanting to do?

[cabbey]

you have just moved the limiting factor to the receiver.

Yep, and that's where you want it for good quality. Shielding and ground isolation and quality of audio processing in a $200 all in one unit is going to beat the pants off a $400 uber sound card that plugs into a computer (pc or mac). At least that has always been my experience. (and like BradfordBenn, I used to do production audio as part of my 'day job', though more nights and weekends than 9-5....)

[RogersDA]

Thanks for the initial feedback.

Right now I just want it for improved playback of iTunes, CDs, and DVDs.

I have many digital tapes that I eventually want to convert to DVD, but there will probably be no additional audio dubbing that I can think of right now.

Outside of buying a SoundBlaster card or two in the past for the PC I am really unfamiliar with what what to do/buy.

[cabbey]

Right now I just want it for improved playback of iTunes, CDs, and DVDs.

Maybe a tad overkill, but I suspect you'd be quite happy with anything on this list (http://www.crutchfield.com/g_10420/Receivers.html?tp=179&nvpair=AG_Inputs_and_Outputs|YCOptical_Digital_Inputs&nvpair=FFBrand|Denon).

And they stand behind what they sell, so if you aren't you can usually get help from them to make it right, or send it back.

If that starting price tag is a bit high, drop the filter for the Denon brand (left hand column, midway down.)

You might also call them up and speak to one of their advisors... they're usually pretty good about figuring out the right gear for you. Though they may try to upsell you slightly... a quick test is to look at that unit, find the next unit down on the price list from that same vendor, check that it looks to have the right input, and ask why that model wouldn't do for you.


all that said....


here's what I have plugged into my mac pro: http://www.jbl.com/home/products/product_detail.aspx?prod=duet&cat=hmm&ser=hmm I'm sure BradfordBenn knows that name.

Anyway, they're not plugged into the digital port, those are directly into the line out jack on the back. They are powered off of a conditioning power supply with a hefty 150dB isolation from the other items on it (the mac, my monitors). I love them, sound is very very good. The only complaint I have, is that if a GSM cell phone (like my iPhone) is within a couple feet of them, the periodically chirp and tweet when it talks to the cell tower.

[BradfordBenn]

Thanks for the initial feedback.

Right now I just want it for improved playback of iTunes, CDs, and DVDs.

I have many digital tapes that I eventually want to convert to DVD, but there will probably be no additional audio dubbing that I can think of right now.

Outside of buying a SoundBlaster card or two in the past for the PC I am really unfamiliar with what what to do/buy.

So what are you going to be listening through? BIG Speakers (taller than 24 inches), small desktop speakers, bookshelf speakers.. etc.

I have had good experience with many different USB audio devices and rather than confuse the question, I am trying to understand the listening experience. It sounds odd but if the experience is just to listen to audio while doing photo processing you probably do not want to spend the money to purchase a professional level output device. If you want to use it as a home theater center piece there is stuff in the middle.

In terms of doing digital tapes to DVD, that one depends on your interface options out of the digital tape player, but basically digital to digital should not require an audio interface that will convert it to analog.

[BradfordBenn]

Howdy All-

So I use a program called WhereIsIt? (http://www.whereisit-soft.com/) in the Windows World. I like it for one feature that I have not been able to find in the Mac Domain, it assigns a number to each CD/DVD that it is in the catalog. I label the media with the number as well as the name of the media. I then place the media into storage sorted by number.

So when I am looking for a file, I do my search in the catalog and the results indicate what the name of the media is, and even better the number of media. I simply flip through the media storage to find the numbered media. It is much faster than looking for something alphabetically, the big reason is that when I add another piece of media, the number is the next number so I just add it to the back of the binder.

Anyone find/know of a program that does the same feature?:dunno

Thanks.

[BradfordBenn]

here's what I have plugged into my mac pro: http://www.jbl.com/home/products/product_detail.aspx?prod=duet&cat=hmm&ser=hmm I'm sure BradfordBenn knows that name.

I know that name very very well. I work for Harman International :wink but for the pro division. So don't worry I won't just recommend Harman stuff cause it is not always the right solution.

Oh yeah, in terms of the chirping and tweeting from the GSM; pretty much everything gets the interference problems. In my car I can tell when my blackberry is "reporting in" because I hear it through the audio system. The best solution is to go to a shielded cable and ground the shield. However even that does not work all the time. I can make other suggestions but it gets expensive real quick.

[cabbey]

I know that name very very well. I work for Harman International :wink but for the pro division. So don't worry I won't just recommend Harman stuff cause it is not always the right solution.

:rofl small world.

Oh yeah, in terms of the chirping and tweeting from the GSM; pretty much everything gets the interference problems. In my car I can tell when my blackberry is "reporting in" because I hear it through the audio system. The best solution is to go to a shielded cable and ground the shield. However even that does not work all the time. I can make other suggestions but it gets expensive real quick.

Yeah, our office phones used to alert us to incoming cell calls. My solution? Move the cell phone. :)

[Pupator]

:rofl small world.
Yeah, our office phones used to alert us to incoming cell calls. My solution? Move the cell phone. :)

Putting some of those ferrite rings on the speaker cables will work also.

--------

So I'm running Vista on my Macbook Air without a problem - except that everyone tells me I'm an idiot for never using OSX. I booted into it yesterday just to play around a bit and found out that there's nothing to play with. Since it doesn't come with Office (understandable) or iLife (not so understandable) there really isn't anything I can do to get a feel for the "Mac World." Anyone got some older versions of Office for Mac or (even better) iLife they can part with? I would be interested in trying it out. Also, it seems that even though my BootCamp OSX partition is 15GB, I only have 355MB remaining. Does the OS itself really take up 14+GB?

[RogersDA]

So what are you going to be listening through? BIG Speakers (taller than 24 inches), small desktop speakers, bookshelf speakers.. etc.I have 4 Boston Acoustics bookshelf speakers plus a subwoofer on the floor. The speakers plug into the subwoofer. Right now this is all for apple-computer-listening only. I do not have any plans to integrate the apple into a home theater (maybe later - much much later). I will probably look at Crutchfield. I have not been there in probably 10+ years.

[BradfordBenn]

I have 4 Boston Acoustics bookshelf speakers plus a subwoofer on the floor. The speakers plug into the subwoofer. Right now this is all for apple-computer-listening only. I do not have any plans to integrate the apple into a home theater (maybe later - much much later). I will probably look at Crutchfield. I have not been there in probably 10+ years.

I would say that based on that a 50W system would be a good fit for you, but they don't make anything that small anymore. So even though I work for Harman my home system is a Sony system... mainly because I have a Sony TV so one remote... however I do like the sound of it powering my JBL Studio Monitors. So I would not hesitate at the Sony STR-DG520 which they have at Crutchfield (http://www.crutchfield.com/App/Product/Item/Main.aspx?g=10420&i=158STDG520&tp=179).

Hope that helps. Also I am intrigued by the iPod dock option but I have not used it.

[BradfordBenn]

Putting some of those ferrite rings on the speaker cables will work also.

--------

So I'm running Vista on my Macbook Air without a problem - except that everyone tells me I'm an idiot for never using OSX. I booted into it yesterday just to play around a bit and found out that there's nothing to play with. Since it doesn't come with Office (understandable) or iLife (not so understandable) there really isn't anything I can do to get a feel for the "Mac World." Anyone got some older versions of Office for Mac or (even better) iLife they can part with? I would be interested in trying it out. Also, it seems that even though my BootCamp OSX partition is 15GB, I only have 355MB remaining. Does the OS itself really take up 14+GB?

The OS size depends on how you did the install. Did you have it include the "install" files so that you would not need to provide the DVD during a System Update? Also you might want to check the Temp files from all the System Updates and "Restore" points.. I also might be wrong and these might not apply to Vista but I know they apply to XP. I do not know how to find them in Vista but in XP there is a TMP and a TEMP folder that contains these.

[Pupator]

The OS size depends on how you did the install. Did you have it include the "install" files so that you would not need to provide the DVD during a System Update? Also you might want to check the Temp files from all the System Updates and "Restore" points.. I also might be wrong and these might not apply to Vista but I know they apply to XP. I do not know how to find them in Vista but in XP there is a TMP and a TEMP folder that contains these.

The lack of disc space isn't on the Windows side, it's on the OSX side. But, I was able to add 7GB of space by using an app that removes the localization files from the OSX installation. So now I just need someone to find that iLife '07 cd that's sitting in a drawer... :wink

[DavidTO]

The lack of disc space isn't on the Windows side, it's on the OSX side. But, I was able to add 7GB of space by using an app that removes the localization files from the OSX installation. So now I just need someone to find that iLife '07 cd that's sitting in a drawer... :wink


Something is wrong, as your MBA should have come with (http://www.apple.com/macbookair/software.html) all the apps you're talking about. You bought it used? Was the OS already installed? They must have deleted those apps? Do you have the install disk?

[Pupator]

Something is wrong, as your MBA should have come with (http://www.apple.com/macbookair/software.html) all the apps you're talking about. You bought it used? Was the OS already installed? They must have deleted those apps? Do you have the install disk?

I did buy it used and the guy did a full/clean install of OSX before he sent it to me. I guess it's time to pop in that Leopard disc and find the good stuff?

I'm glad to hear you say that because I was a little surprised that they make you purchase that stuff separately! Going to check....

[DavidTO]

I did buy it used and the guy did a full/clean install of OSX before he sent it to me. I guess it's time to pop in that Leopard disc and find the good stuff?

I'm glad to hear you say that because I was a little surprised that they make you purchase that stuff separately! Going to check....


To avoid having to do a full install, you may have to use Pacifist. I'm on my phone, so I can't get a URL ATM.

[Pupator]

To avoid having to do a full install, you may have to use Pacifist. I'm on my phone, so I can't get a URL ATM.

Nope - popped in the DVD and I was able to choose "Install Pre-loaded software only." In a sub-menu I found the iLife apps and I was able to install them. Then I went online and found that iWork has a free 30 day trial. I found a 14 day trial for an app that will sync iCal with my Outlook calendar (via Google Calendar). So it looks like I can give OSX a legit shot for 2 weeks.

[DavidTO]

Nope - popped in the DVD and I was able to choose "Install Pre-loaded software only." In a sub-menu I found the iLife apps and I was able to install them. Then I went online and found that iWork has a free 30 day trial. I found a 14 day trial for an app that will sync iCal with my Outlook calendar (via Google Calendar). So it looks like I can give OSX a legit shot for 2 weeks.


I was really frustrated with iWork when I first started with it. But once used to it, I ended up preferring it over Office by a long shot. Part of that was growing used to it, and the other was that the first time I used it was when it was new, then I went away and came back to a later and much improved version. All I can say is it works differently and can be annoying at first. But not nearly as annoying as the intrusive POS that I've come to dread: MS Office. :D

[BradfordBenn]

So anyone try Office 2008? The reason I ask is that both my wife and I are not happy with Entourage or Mail.

[DavidTO]

So anyone try Office 2008? The reason I ask is that both my wife and I are not happy with Entourage or Mail.


Yes, I have it. But I use and like Mail, so I'm not much help to you. MS really pissed me off by sneaking in the .docx BS

[Pupator]

Office 08 is all I use - I assume the Mac version is the same as the Windows version. The ribbon (menu user interface) is very nice and the applications seem snappier than the '03 counterparts.

[BradfordBenn]

Office 08 is all I use - I assume the Mac version is the same as the Windows version. The ribbon (menu user interface) is very nice and the applications seem snappier than the '03 counterparts.

I am using Office 2007 at the office and coming back to the Mac Version of Office 2003 is making my head hurt. Stuff is that differently placed. I am thinking that during my upcoming biz trip I need to make time for the Apple Store to try the software out as there is no trial like there is for Windows!!!

[Pupator]

I am using Office 2007 at the office and coming back to the Mac Version of Office 2003 is making my head hurt. Stuff is that differently placed. I am thinking that during my upcoming biz trip I need to make time for the Apple Store to try the software out as there is no trial like there is for Windows!!!

:scratch That's lame about no trial on the Mac Version.

Yeah, the "ribbon" is the biggest UI change in 2007. It makes things way easier to find and they're far more naturally grouped....once you're used to it. Going back and forth between 03 and 07 would be quite confusing.

[Moogle Pepper]

I changed my format from .docx to .doc. I didn't like that slip either. But I am already so used to Office so going to another would be tough.

[BradfordBenn]

So still no idea on a media catalogger? I might just have to keep it in Windows

[DavidTO]

So still no idea on a media catalogger? I might just have to keep it in Windows


I used this (http://www.microsoft.com/Expression/products/overview.aspx?key=media) before MS bought it. Should work. Lightroom should work, too.

[colourbox]

So still no idea on a media catalogger? I might just have to keep it in Windows

Only ideas I have are from this link (http://www.macupdate.com/search.php?keywords=catalog+cd&starget=google). These are apps that will track removable media. My search terms were "catalog CD" but you might find more with a different search.

I have used DiskTracker but I think it's getting a little out of date. CDFinder looks interesting but I haven't used it.

These are apps that should track any file type on your discs. If you used an app like Lightroom you would be able to track only certain photo file types. Microsoft Expression Media should be able to track offline media. But they don't seem to handle it as well as the generic disc trackers, like doing that letter labeling system you talked about.

[DavidTO]

Only ideas I have are from this link (http://www.macupdate.com/search.php?keywords=catalog+cd&starget=google). These are apps that will track removable media. My search terms were "catalog CD" but you might find more with a different search.

I have used DiskTracker but I think it's getting a little out of date. CDFinder looks interesting but I haven't used it.

These are apps that should track any file type on your discs. If you used an app like Lightroom you would be able to track only certain photo file types. Microsoft Expression Media should be able to track offline media. But they don't seem to handle it as well as the generic disc trackers, like doing that letter labeling system you talked about.


Yes. macupdate.com and versiontracker.com. Both are the first place to look if friends don't have an easy answer for you on software. :thumb

[BradfordBenn]

Thanks I will go browse. So far I have hit nothing perfect. It is not just for images, but for all media. So document back ups, audio files, websites... etc. It is that little step of not having to label the media, seems small but pretty cool.

[CatOne]

Thanks I will go browse. So far I have hit nothing perfect. It is not just for images, but for all media. So document back ups, audio files, websites... etc. It is that little step of not having to label the media, seems small but pretty cool.

Leap?

Won't do audio files, but iTunes works great for that ;-)

[DavidTO]

Leap?

Won't do audio files, but iTunes works great for that ;-)


iTunes works great for offline media? Really?

[CatOne]

iTunes works great for offline media? Really?

No.

:-P

[BradfordBenn]

iTunes works great for offline media? Really?

Not so much, but a few people have tried http://lifehacker.com/software/pdf/geek-to-live--organize-your-pdf-library-with-itunes-240447.php

I will do a video capture so you guys can see what I am trying to do. I do appreciate the help, but I think that I am not going to be able to find the feature set I want.

[Andy]

FWIW, all of Smuggy is using 1Password now :D

http://twitter.com/DonMacAskill/statuses/935362987

[DavidTO]

FWIW, all of Smuggy is using 1Password now :D

http://twitter.com/DonMacAskill/statuses/935362987


I should get a commission on that one! :D

[BradfordBenn]

Okay, I am probably beating a dead horse, but I am sitting in Chicago's O'Hare Airport on a layover. I actually had to use WhereIsIt to grab some stuff from the office so figured I would snag a video capture...

I can't quite figure out how to embed the video, so here is a link

http://BradfordBenn.smugmug.com/gallery/4168488_66o8K#382006119_36Pnq-A-LB

<object width=425 height=318><param name="movie" value="http://cdn.smugmug.com/ria/ShizVidz-2008092306.swf" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always" /><param name="flashVars" value="s=aT0zODIwMDYxMTkmaz0zNlBucSZhPTQxNjg0ODhfNjZvOEsmdT1CcmFkZm9yZEJlbm4mZT0x" /><embed src="http://cdn.smugmug.com/ria/ShizVidz-2008092306.swf" flashVars="s=aT0zODIwMDYxMTkmaz0zNlBucSZhPTQxNjg0ODhfNjZvOEsmdT1CcmFkZm9yZEJlbm4mZT0x" width=425 height=318 type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowFullScreen="true" allowScriptAccess="always"></embed></object>


Notice how it tells me the media name and its number.

Thanks for looking and thinking.

[DavidTO]

Brad,

This (http://hp.vector.co.jp/authors/VA008942/library/diskcatalogmaker/index.html) doesn't work for you?

[BradfordBenn]

Brad,

This (http://hp.vector.co.jp/authors/VA008942/library/diskcatalogmaker/index.html) doesn't work for you?

Thanks. For fixing the embedded video and for the tip. I had not found that one yet. I am downloading it at the moment.:thumb

[Ann McRae]

So, my iMac has shut off twice in the last week, without warning or apparent cause. Just completely shut off. Should I worry? Is there some kind of repair process I should know about (like if I RTFM)?

ann

[RogersDA]

So, my iMac has shut off twice in the last week, without warning or apparent cause. Just completely shut off. Should I worry? Is there some kind of repair process I should know about (like if I RTFM)?

ann

Not sure if this applies to you or not: http://www.apple.com/support/imac/powersupply/repairextension/

[Ann McRae]

Not sure if this applies to you or not: http://www.apple.com/support/imac/powersupply/repairextension/

Thanks, David. Mine isn't that old. No reported issues or fixes over at the apple site., so I guess I will contact my retailer. I am pushing the one year time line.

ann

[DavidTO]

Thanks, David. Mine isn't that old. No reported issues or fixes over at the apple site., so I guess I will contact my retailer. I am pushing the one year time line.

ann


Ann,

It's still covered under warranty. You can call tech support. Much better than going to your retailer. MUCH.

Also, try this (http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1543?viewlocale=en_US) first.

[Ann McRae]

Ann,

It's still covered under warranty. You can call tech support. Much better than going to your retailer. MUCH.

Also, try this (http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1543?viewlocale=en_US) first.

Thanks, David.

ann

[ChrisJ]

I was all set to order a new MacBook Pro at work, and then Apple dropped the ball for me.

The killer for me is the mandated glossy screen. I can't stand glossy screens! Nothing will ever convince me to buy one; I don't watch movies on my computers at work (or at home for that matter).

I'm hoping that by the time they release the new 17" MacBook Pros in "a few months" (says the rumor line (http://www.macrumors.com/)), Apple will have come to their senses.

Argh! Just had to vent...

[Pupator]

I initially didn't think the glossy screen would be a big deal ecause I have the Air and love the screen. However - the new MacBook Pro screen is covered with glass.

Check this gallery: http://www.engadget.com/photos/macbook-and-macbook-pro-comparison/1110933/

[cmason]

Well, I have seen them in the stores, and plan on getting the MacBook for my wife, but honestly, I didn't notice the screen being distracting.

I have an HP laptop with a glossy screen, and after a year of use, I must say it isn't an issue. I am often angling my screen on a non-glossy Thinkpad as much as I do on the glossy HP, and a simple adjustment eliminates any annoying glare. It really just isn't an issue.

On the other hand, I purposefully bought an older model iMac, when the new ones shipped, as I didn't want a glossy screen. It isn't practical to move a 24" screen around, and I have windows at the back of the office, where it can get super annoying. In other words, glossy does not work where you can not adjust the screen easily.

By the way, the new trackpad on the Macbook is the best trackpad I have ever used. For the record, I am a fan of the 'eraser' pointer found on many Thinkpads, and generally do not like trackpads. But the one on the new Macbook is really well done. The most useful thing is the whole trackpad is a button. Move your finger and click, just like a mouse. And the right side of the track pad is a right click too. For click and hold moves, you just do it: use your thumb to click and hold and do what you normally do with your finger. Honestly, I just did it and didnt notice that I wasnt actually clicking a button with my thumb.

These are very sleak machines, they have the feel of a fatter Macbook air.

[cmason]

Question to the seasoned Mac hounds who have CS3....

I am wondering if I installed CS3 incorrectly somehow. The problem is that my Applications folder is full of what I would otherwise think are support files. Is this the way it is supposed to be? I tried moving these files to another folder, but the Mac didnt like that.

I would prefer to have Photoshop, Bridge, etc as icons in the Apps folder, but instead, they are a bunch of folders with all kinds of crap in them....

Does your Applications folder look like this?:

http://digitalmason.smugmug.com/photos/401928341_7jwmo-M.jpg

[colourbox]

Does your Applications folder look like this?

Yes, it does. That's normal. Microsoft Office does it too. Many larger apps install a folder with the application inside it. Smaller apps tend to be the "single icon" installations.

In your Applications folder are some major app folders (Acrobat, Flash, Photoshop...) and some are support (Help, Device Central, Extension Manager). Yeah, they could be cleaner about their utilities.

It doesn't bother me very much because I hardly ever go into the Applications folder. My frequently used apps are all in the Dock as shortcuts, and for occasionally used apps I'll just type the first few letters of the name into Spotlight and hit Return. At that point it doesn't matter to me where or how they're stored.

[CatOne]

Question to the seasoned Mac hounds who have CS3....

I am wondering if I installed CS3 incorrectly somehow. The problem is that my Applications folder is full of what I would otherwise think are support files. Is this the way it is supposed to be? I tried moving these files to another folder, but the Mac didnt like that.

I would prefer to have Photoshop, Bridge, etc as icons in the Apps folder, but instead, they are a bunch of folders with all kinds of crap in them....

Does your Applications folder look like this?:

http://digitalmason.smugmug.com/photos/401928341_7jwmo-M.jpg

Heh. No, that's perfectly normal. Honestly, Adobe sucks in many ways. I can really doubt the quality of software from a company who has incompatible HELP VIEWER applications (you can't read 1.1 help docs with Help Viewer 1.0, and vice versa), and who decides it's a good idea to put both of them at the ROOT LEVEL of the applications folder. Seriously... do you think a single one of their engineers has ever vacuumed his apartment?

:rolleyes

And don't get me started on their installer. You should see people try and install that software in a corporate environment. There is really NO WAY to install it outside of going to each and every machine with the freaking DVD and sitting through a 1-hour install. For 500 machines, that's 500 hours of IT time.

Okay I lie, There is one company (JAMF Software) who came out with an explicit installer which can help out here in a managed environment. The fact that, 8 years after OS X was released, that Adobe's installers still suck so much scrotum.... well as you can see, it cheeks me off.

I haven't verified if CS4 is any better, but my guess is, that America's national debt (debt, not deficit) will be 0 before Adobe writes an installer which doesn't suck.

[colourbox]

...and who decides it's a good idea to put both of them at the ROOT LEVEL of the applications folder. Seriously... do you think a single one of their engineers has ever vacuumed his apartment? :rolleyes

The reason I didn't criticize Adobe specifically is that Apple is not off the hook themselves. I have Apple Final Cut Pro and its installer does the exact same thing, with at least nine additional utilities and folders installed at the top level of the Applications folder and some uncountable number of additional files (several GB worth) strewn throughout Application Support and the other Library folders. It's the exact same mess, from Apple.

So if we're looking for a role model from Apple, Adobe, Microsoft...there isn't a saint among 'em here.

[colourbox]

Today only (Oct 28) - CrossOver Mac is free to download (http://down.codeweavers.com/)
(Scroll down to where it says "For Tuesday, October 28, 2008 only, we are putting up fully unlocked builds")

It's WINE ported to OS X so that you can run some Windows apps without Windows. I haven't actually tried it.

[cabbey]

The fact that, 8 years after OS X was released, that Adobe's installers still suck so much scrotum.... well as you can see, it cheeks me off.

But you missed the WORST part of the Adobe user experience... the UPDATER!

The installer you run once, the updater runs every freaking time you login, at a minimum. The updater makes the installer look polished.

[Seamus]

I've been using Yep (http://www.yepthat.com/yep/index.html) for the last few months. It organises your pdf's into an iTunes type program where you can keyword and catalog them. It's a lot faster than using preview to look at a pdf, imho.

Shay.

[DavidTO]

I've been using Yep (http://www.yepthat.com/yep/index.html) for the last few months. It organises your pdf's into an iTunes type program where you can keyword and catalog them. It's a lot faster than using preview to look at a pdf, imho.

Shay.


I saw that and was intrigued, but I don't store pdfs so much. I look once, and then toss 'em. Looks like a great app, though!

[W.W. Webster]

I can't yet find any write-up regarding what's been enhanced, and you should use Software Update, as apple.com is still offering version 3.1.2.

Update: This update is recommended for all Safari users and features protection from fraudulent phishing websites and better identification of online businesses. This update also includes the latest security updates.

[Milan]

I can't yet find any write-up regarding what's been enhanced, and you should use Software Update, as apple.com is still offering version 3.1.2.

Update: This update is recommended for all Safari users and features protection from fraudulent phishing websites and better identification of online businesses. This update also includes the latest security updates.

I will probably wait few day's before updating. Just in case :heh

[Moogle Pepper]

I am trying to backup my itunes library with a DL DVD+R and I get

"The attenpt to burn disc failed. The device failed to calibrate laser power level for this media."

What's going on? Is it my burner or ? I checked my mac's stats and it accepts DL DVD+Rs.

[DavidTO]

I am trying to backup my itunes library with a DL DVD+R and I get

"The attenpt to burn disc failed. The device failed to calibrate laser power level for this media."

What's going on? Is it my burner or ? I checked my mac's stats and it accepts DL DVD+Rs.


Could be your drive. Which model is your Mac?

You could try cleaning the laser with one of those cleaning discs.

Or try another brand of disc.

Or set the burn speed to something slower.

[Moogle Pepper]

Here are the specs:

Model Name: MacBook Pro
Model Identifier: MacBookPro4,1
Processor Name: Intel Core 2 Duo
Processor Speed: 2.4 GHz
Number Of Processors: 1
Total Number Of Cores: 2
L2 Cache: 3 MB
Memory: 4 GB
Bus Speed: 800 MHz

MATSHITA DVD-R UJ-867:

Firmware Revision: HA13
Interconnect: ATAPI
Burn Support: Yes (Apple Shipping Drive)
Cache: 2048 KB
Reads DVD: Yes
CD-Write: -R, -RW
DVD-Write: -R, -R DL, -RW, +R, +R DL, +RW
Write Strategies: CD-TAO, CD-SAO, DVD-DAO
Media:
Type: DVD+R DL
ID: RITEK S04
Blank: Yes
Erasable: No
Overwritable: Yes
Appendable: Yes
Write Speeds: 2.4x, 4x

Adjust my burn speed?

[DavidTO]

Here are the specs:



If you have an Apple Store nearby, I would make an appointment.

[cmason]

Out of curiosity, and in case it happens to my Mac, I googled a bit. Found two helpful items. One from Apple suggest to reset the SMC:

http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1411

The other, which seems harmless and worth a shot, says to do the following:

Open System Preferences.
Click on "International"
Under "Languages": Drag any of the other languages to the top,
then drag English back to the top.
Set "Order for sorted lists" to English
Set "Word Break" to English (United States, computer)
Close System Preferences
Restart computer

Finally, you may want to get another disk from another manufacturer or maybe a DVD-R, just to see if that helps.

[Moogle Pepper]

Well it is burning to CDR. I need to buy regular DVD+Rs I guess. I just wonder why it wouldn't burn to Dual Layer.

[BradfordBenn]

Well it is burning to CDR. I need to buy regular DVD+Rs I guess. I just wonder why it wouldn't burn to Dual Layer.

I did not think that they would burn Dual Layer but the super drive would burn -R and +R. I could be wrong, I have been wrong before.

http://www.macworld.com/article/43137/2005/02/duallayerburners.html

[Slinky0390]

I am trying to backup my itunes library with a DL DVD+R and I get

"The attenpt to burn disc failed. The device failed to calibrate laser power level for this media."

What's going on? Is it my burner or ? I checked my mac's stats and it accepts DL DVD+Rs.

This same exact thing was happening to me with my powerbook over the summer. My problem was the superdrive wouldn't burn to any media and I was getting the same error message. Not exactly sure what the problem was but I brought it to the Apple store before my AppleCare ran out in August and they put in a new drive for free. If you can afford to be without your computer for a week or so, and you have the Apple Care Protection Plan, I would bring it to an Apple store because I tried every fix I could find on the internet and none of them worked.

[Moogle Pepper]

I don't have the Apple Care protection plan. :dunno

I need to try it on a DVD+R if I can burn.

[DavidTO]

I don't have the Apple Care protection plan. :dunno

I need to try it on a DVD+R if I can burn.


Is it still under warranty? If so, then ACPP is irrelevant.

[Moogle Pepper]

I don't think so. I bought it back in July. :cry

[DavidTO]

Well, if it's no longer under warranty, and you're good with this stuff, you could try doing it yourself. Link to PDF instructions (http://www.powerbookmedic.com/Manuals/15-inch-macbook-pro-manual.pdf).

[DavidTO]

Anybody want a free license to one of my all-time favorite apps, 1Password (http://agilewebsolutions.com/products/1Password)? Serious interest only, please. :D

[RogersDA]

Anybody want a free license to one of my all-time favorite apps, 1Password (http://agilewebsolutions.com/products/1Password)? Serious interest only, please. :DSure do. What's that catch?

[DavidTO]

Sure do. What's that catch?


You need to email me your email address you want them to send the license to. No catch, just a promotion they've got on, a thank you to their customers as a way to spread the app at the same time.

[DavidTO]

You need to email me your email address you want them to send the license to. No catch, just a promotion they've got on, a thank you to their customers as a way to spread the app at the same time.


email :deal

I sent RogersDA's off. He should already have it.

Oh, and when you send the email I need your real name, too. :D

[RogersDA]

email :deal

I sent RogersDA's off. He should already have it.

Oh, and when you send the email I need your real name, too. :DSorry - I am having a hard time reading today!

And, since I didn't say so in an email: Thanks a lot!! :D:rofl

[DavidTO]

Sorry - I am having a hard time reading today!

And, since I didn't say so in an email: Thanks a lot!! :D:rofl



Hope you make good use of it. It's one awesome program. :deal


Next? :ear

[Pupator]

Hope you make good use of it. It's one awesome program. :deal


Next? :ear

E-mail sent. :D

[DavidTO]

E-mail sent. :D


Next? :ear

[Pupator]

Next? :ear

Got it, thanks! :clap

[W.W. Webster]

Next? :earE-mail on its way to you! :thumb

[DavidTO]

E-mail on its way to you! :thumb


Next! :ear

[greenpea]

email sent! Thanks for offering this one up!

[DavidTO]

email sent! Thanks for offering this one up!


Oops, I guess there's a 3 gift limit. :dunno

My wife has a license, too, I'll get one out for you, greenpea.

But I guess I'll have to stop saying "Next!" :D

[greenpea]

Oops, I guess there's a 3 gift limit. :dunno

My wife has a license, too, I'll get one out for you, greenpea.

But I guess I'll have to stop saying "Next!" :D

Again, thanks!

Have you tried out the iPhone version yet?

[DavidTO]

Again, thanks!

Have you tried out the iPhone version yet?


Yes, it's one of the reasons I love it.

I had it generate a long, cryptic pw for my banking site. 20 characters of gibberish. But I don't have to remember it on the computer, the iPhone, nowhere, because 1P takes care of it on every platform I use. :D

[Seamus]

I have two license's to give away for 1password. Shout folks (great idea to share David!!)

Shay

[DavidTO]

I have two license's to give away for 1password. Shout folks (great idea to share David!!)

Shay


Shay,

Would be great if you could help greenpea (I don't think it'll work giving it to him from my wife's, since I used my same email for purchase).

I also got an email from ChrisJ, who I can't help. Guys? :ear

EDIT: it's a nice thing for the company to do, but I wish they had made the 3 license limit clear from the beginning! :deal

[Seamus]

Shay,

Would be great if you could help greenpea (I don't think it'll work giving it to him from my wife's, since I used my same email for purchase).

I also got an email from ChrisJ, who I can't help. Guys? :ear

EDIT: it's a nice thing for the company to do, but I wish they had made the 3 license limit clear from the beginning! :deal

can you send me his details and I will email him?

Shay.

[greenpea]

can you send me his details and I will email him?

Shay.

Hey Seamus, I pm'd you my info.

Thanks for offering this up!

[ChrisJ]

can you send me his details and I will email him?
Shay.

PM'ed! :D

[Seamus]

Hey Seamus, I pm'd you my info.

Thanks for offering this up!

Done!!!

Shay.

[Seamus]

PM'ed! :D

Done :D

Shay

That's my quota used up folks.

[greenpea]

Done!!!

Shay.

Email received! Thanks!

[DavidTO]

Email received! Thanks!


Now the thing to do is to see if they'll allow YOU to pass on the gift! :D

http://agile.ws/gift/thanksgiving

[greenpea]

Now the thing to do is to see if they'll allow YOU to pass on the gift! :D

http://agile.ws/gift/thanksgiving

Finally got it all installed, and I'll give it a try, so....

next?

[cmason]

Anyone still have a license available?

[Pupator]

Now the thing to do is to see if they'll allow YOU to pass on the gift! :D

http://agile.ws/gift/thanksgiving

And they do! It tells me on the confirmation screen that I have 2 gifts remaining. Next....?

[Ann McRae]

Okay, the dh needs a new laptop. His 3 yr old HP 17 inch has been compromised and doesn't appear to be recoverable. I say "get a mac" but he would use it for work (MS Office primarily) tasks, and insists he needs a keyboard with number pad. So is the only way to achieve this with a Macbook to use an add on keyboard?

ann

[Andy]

Okay, the dh needs a new laptop. His 3 yr old HP 17 inch has been compromised and doesn't appear to be recoverable. I say "get a mac" but he would use it for work (MS Office primarily) tasks, and insists he needs a keyboard with number pad. So is the only way to achieve this with a Macbook to use an add on keyboard?

ann
What pc lappys come w/ number pad on the keyboard?

[DavidTO]

Okay, the dh needs a new laptop. His 3 yr old HP 17 inch has been compromised and doesn't appear to be recoverable. I say "get a mac" but he would use it for work (MS Office primarily) tasks, and insists he needs a keyboard with number pad. So is the only way to achieve this with a Macbook to use an add on keyboard?

ann

Yes, attach an external keyboard via USB. No biggie. HP laptops have a number pad? Hmm, I guess they get a lot of number crunchers. I would definitely NOT want one, but that's me.

[Ann McRae]

What pc lappys come w/ number pad on the keyboard?


The HP 8000 series (http://h10010.www1.hp.com/wwpc/us/en/sm/WF25a/321957-321957-64295-321838-3329741-3355679.html)

[Ann McRae]

Yes, attach an external keyboard via USB. No biggie. HP laptops have a number pad? Hmm, I guess they get a lot of number crunchers. I would definitely NOT want one, but that's me.


Yeah, I know :rolleyes but he does number crunching all the time, and in order to get a number pad you end up with at least 17" of screen.

If he got a macbook, I wouldn't have too :wink

[Pupator]

The 17" HP notebooks have numberpads....and are a HORRIBLE product!

I love HP, I really do, but we bought several of these 17" models at a company I used to work for and they do nothing but fail. They're just to big, heavy, and bulky to be considered notebooks. I'm sure if you left it on a desk all the time it would work fine (but why pay for a laptop) but if you're going to be moving this thing around at all (even in a padded laptop bag) something will fail. We had touchpads go bad, screens go bad, keyboards, optical drives. Please don't waste your money on one of these. Tell him to get a 14 or 15" model (PC or Mac) and get a USB numberpad.

[colourbox]

...insists he needs a keyboard with number pad. So is the only way to achieve this with a Macbook to use an add on keyboard?

To be precise, you don't really need an entire add-on keyboard. For years I've had a little USB number keypad. You get the keys you want without compromising the laptop's portability or limiting your choice in laptops.

[Richard]

Yeah, I know :rolleyes but he does number crunching all the time, and in order to get a number pad you end up with at least 17" of screen.

If he got a macbook, I wouldn't have too :wink

If portability isn't a major concern, he could get any number of 15" models and add a full-sized bluetooth keyboard and mouse. Or any machine with a docking station. If he does really heavy duty number crunching, he could try to get used to the pseudo-numeric keyboard that most Windows laptops have. I don't know, really, but a 17" notebook sounds like a hybrid SUV. Unclear on the concept.

[Andy]

ALL OF THIS PEECEE Talk is giving me hives - go away with it shoo shoo shoo!

:lol3

[Richard]

ALL OF THIS PEECEE Talk is giving me hives - go away with it shoo shoo shoo!

:lol3
:hide

[W.W. Webster]

ALL OF THIS PEECEE Talk is giving me hives - go away with it shoo shoo shoo!:clap

[Ann McRae]

ALL OF THIS PEECEE Talk is giving me hives - go away with it shoo shoo shoo!

:lol3



:lol3

I wasn't wanting to talk PeeCee I wanted to convert the man!!!

[cabbey]

If he does really heavy duty number crunching, he could try to get used to the pseudo-numeric keyboard that most Windows laptops have.

I've tried that, the layout is slanted at about a 20 degree angle to the left on most of them. It just doesn't work out for folks that know 10 key. I believe this is the usb version of the one I used to use one weekend every month doing my dad's books: http://tinyurl.com/6horn6 (amazon.com) Bonus in that it has a triple-zero key if you're lucky enough to be working in that kind of scale.

[DavidTO]

I mentioned this over in the food thread, but thought it was worth a mention here. I recently bought MacGourmet (http://www.macgourmet.com/) and have been pretty happy with it. I demoed about 8 apps, and chose this one. In fact, I had decided against it, came back to it, learned more about it, and decided it was the best app for my needs.

I bought the optional nutrition plug-in, which calculates nutritional values of a recipe by serving. I also have been publishing my recipes to my .mac account. You can also use it to publish to your blog (on supported services).

The runner up was Measuring Cup (http://www.shallotpatch.com/MeasuringCup/index.html), which is free. This is the one if you want simple and cheap. Not that MacGourmet is a bank-buster at $25, but still...

[Moogle Pepper]

ALL OF THIS PEECEE Talk is giving me hives - go away with it shoo shoo shoo!

:lol3

But ... haven't you seen the lastest Windows adverts? I AM A PC! Just like a countless millions of users! You can never get away from us! :s85

[ChrisJ]

Now the thing to do is to see if they'll allow YOU to pass on the gift! :D http://agile.ws/gift/thanksgiving

Not sure if it will still work, but the site is still up. So if you need one, let me know!

[BradfordBenn]

So I am curious when did Microsoft assimilate the abbreviation for Personal Computer (PC) to mean Windows? By definition I think that even a Mac is a PC.

The real reason is of course that Apple started doing the Mac vs. PC commercials...

[DavidTO]

So I am curious when did Microsoft assimilate the abbreviation for Personal Computer (PC) to mean Windows? By definition I think that even a Mac is a PC.

The real reason is of course that Apple started doing the Mac vs. PC commercials...


PC is the generic for personal computer, and since you can't refer to all the window machine by anything other than the generic, it stuck. The Mac was distinguished by not being generic, but specific.

[Richard]

So I am curious when did Microsoft assimilate the abbreviation for Personal Computer (PC) to mean Windows? By definition I think that even a Mac is a PC.

The real reason is of course that Apple started doing the Mac vs. PC commercials...
Actually, IBM is more to blame than Microsoft. PC used to mean any personal computer until IBM introduced its first model in 1981. IBM took the radical step of making public the BIOS code, and that led to a variety of of "PC-compatible" machines, which quickly came to dominate the market. The success of the IBM architecture meant that its operating system--MS-DOS--also became widespread, and soon after, CP/M (the previous OS champion) disappeared. IIRC, Apple fans were irritated that PC came to be identified with IBM/MS-DOS machines until the first Mac was introduced in 1984. After that, most of them gladly embraced the distinction between PCs and Macs.
:rutt

[cmason]

In typical IBM fashion, the computer was the IBM 5150. (1981 seems not that long ago). But in very non-typical IBM fashion, they decided to market it as the IBM Personal Computer, presumably because there were lots of other computers at IBM, most of the 'non-personal' variety. Of course, by then, there are lots of personal computers on the market, including Apple. (remember Timex, Ti-99/4A, TRS-80, Epson, etc etc) While I don't think that the name PC,was unique, the term PC took on a specific use, especially after such things as "PC Magazine" took off specifically to support the IBM PC. As Richard said, PC Compatible meant compatible with the 'IBM PC".

[colourbox]

Let's not even get into what "minicomputer" and "microcomputer" have traditionally meant... :D

[Richard]

I am having trouble getting a Macbook to recognize a printer on a Windows wireless LAN. The printer is physically connected to a Win2K machine, which I only use as a print server. Other XP and Vista machines have no problem using this printer, and the printer itself works fine when physically connected to the Macbook. But I want to be able to use the printer wirelessly. On the Mac, I try to add a new printer and click on the Windows button, but it does not see the workgroup. In fact, all three panes remain blank. IP connectivity through the router is just fine. Any hints?

[DavidTO]

I am having trouble getting a Macbook to recognize a printer on a Windows wireless LAN. The printer is physically connected to a Win2K machine, which I only use as a print server. Other XP and Vista machines have no problem using this printer, and the printer itself works fine when physically connected to the Macbook. But I want to be able to use the printer wirelessly. On the Mac, I try to add a new printer and click on the Windows button, but it does not see the workgroup. In fact, all three panes remain blank. IP connectivity through the router is just fine. Any hints?


Firewall? Dunno. I'll think on it.

[Richard]

Firewall? Dunno. I'll think on it.

I don't think so, unless there's something in OS-X that I don't know about. OS-X isn't seeing the Windows workgroup.

[BradfordBenn]

Do you need to be running Bonjour on the Windows machine to advertise it? I had to do this on my home network as the Mac was not part of the Windows workgroup, so Windows locked it out.

[Richard]

Do you need to be running Bonjour on the Windows machine to advertise it? I had to do this on my home network as the Mac was not part of the Windows workgroup, so Windows locked it out.

I can see the Mac in the workgroup on my Windows machines. Just as an experiment, I turned on file sharing on the Mac. I can see the Mac folders on the Windows machines. So it appears that the Mac is OK with being a server but doesn't like being a client. I must be missing something obvious. :scratch

[cmason]

I had all sorts of trouble trying to do this, and eventually gave up and bought a wireless print server and eliminated all the sharing business altogether.

I found that the Mac finds windows services much better if you have a connection to the Windows machine in question first. So connect via smb to the Windows machine that is the printer, then try adding the printer.

(Finder> Go> Connect to server)

[Richard]

I had all sorts of trouble trying to do this, and eventually gave up and bought a wireless print server and eliminated all the sharing business altogether.

I found that the Mac finds windows services much better if you have a connection to the Windows machine in question first. So connect via smb to the Windows machine that is the printer, then try adding the printer.

(Finder> Go> Connect to server)
Good suggestion, but it doesn't work. The Mac can't see any of the machines in the Windows workgroup. I tried connecting to the server by name and IP address and both failed. It just works, eh? :bash

[DavidTO]

Good suggestion, but it doesn't work. The Mac can't see any of the machines in the Windows workgroup. I tried connecting to the server by name and IP address and both failed. It just works, eh? :bash


Any of this (http://www.google.com/search?client=safari&rls=en-us&q=site:support.apple.com+connect+workgroup&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8) help?

[Richard]

Any of this (http://www.google.com/search?client=safari&rls=en-us&q=site:support.apple.com+connect+workgroup&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8) help?

Thanks, David. I've tried a number of things that I found on Apple support groups, but so far no cigar. Since I can always just connect a goddam wire between the Macbook and printer when I need to, it is not really a big deal. At this point, I am just curious as to why it isn't working. In any event, I've had enough frustration for one day, so I'll take a look again tomorrow.

[Richard]

Thanks, David. I've tried a number of things that I found on Apple support groups, but so far no cigar. Since I can always just connect a goddam wire between the Macbook and printer when I need to, it is not really a big deal. At this point, I am just curious as to why it isn't working. In any event, I've had enough frustration for one day, so I'll take a look again tomorrow.
Finally got it working. :whew

I found some information on the Apple Support site about manually adding a Windows shared printer. Turns out that option is not available by default in the System Preferences-> Printer and Fax panel. You have to customize the toolbar to make it available. Once I could specify the printer directly--instead of having OS-X find it (or fail to)--it worked just fine.

[DavidTO]

Finally got it working. :whew

I found some information on the Apple Support site about manually adding a Windows shared printer. Turns out that option is not available by default in the System Preferences-> Printer and Fax panel. You have to customize the toolbar to make it available. Once I could specify the printer directly--instead of having OS-X find it (or fail to)--it worked just fine.


Yah. Support docs before discussions, usually. They're more helpful, for the most part, if they cover your question.

[Gadget_Girl]

I'm buying a mac book :barbbut am having a very difficult time deciding if I need the pro or not. I would love to hear other opinions and suggestions as well as explanations why. I am also buying the 24"Cinema Display. If I go non pro I would be looking at 2.4GHz Intel Core 2 Duo, 4GB, 320GB Drive.
I have just moved from serious hobbiest to paid photographer.
Currently I'm using a Dell Inspiron 6400 with Vista
2GM Ram with 100GB drive
500GB external drive
CS3 & Lightroom

Thanks for the help,
CL

[Moogle Pepper]

I think the macbook pro is better as it has a better build, more workspace on the monitor, and its own dedicated graphics. But it costs more. :cry

[zweiblumen]

I think the macbook pro is better as it has a better build, more workspace on the monitor, and its own dedicated graphics. But it costs more. :cry

I concur with Pepper here. The Pro is more rugged, but more importantly has the faster processor and the dedicated video ram. That will make a pretty big difference in render times on for your workflow. Also, having the larger monitor is nice for a dual screen set up. In the past I've had stands for my laptop that put it next to the monitor, it takes up a little bit of desk space, but I found it very useful. HTH

[CatOne]

I concur with Pepper here. The Pro is more rugged, but more importantly has the faster processor and the dedicated video ram. That will make a pretty big difference in render times on for your workflow. Also, having the larger monitor is nice for a dual screen set up. In the past I've had stands for my laptop that put it next to the monitor, it takes up a little bit of desk space, but I found it very useful. HTH

How is the Pro more rugged than the MacBook? They're both built with the same process, and the MacBook by nature of being smaller, is probably more rugged.

As far as VRAM improving render times... only if the app uses it ;-) Aperture uses the GPU, and Photoshop CS4 does, but Lightroom and CS3 are all CPU... they don't touch the GPU... ever. So more GPU will be exactly 0 faster with those apps.

[zweiblumen]

How is the Pro more rugged than the MacBook? They're both built with the same process, and the MacBook by nature of being smaller, is probably more rugged.

IMHO aluminum > plastic YMMV


As far as VRAM improving render times... only if the app uses it ;-) Aperture uses the GPU, and Photoshop CS4 does, but Lightroom and CS3 are all CPU... they don't touch the GPU... ever. So more GPU will be exactly 0 faster with those apps.

Don't forget applications like WoW :) those can be very important! :rofl

All kidding aside, absolutely. It is application specific.

[DavidTO]

IMHO aluminum > plastic YMMV



That is old, irrelevant news, my friend. They're both made by the same process out of a single hunk of aluminum. Really, really solid.

[Moogle Pepper]

Are we talking the current gen or the previous ones?

[zweiblumen]

Well color me out-of-date.

I'll go sit in my not-paying-attention corner again. (Someone I know bought a macbook that was plastic, and I swear it was recently, but in checking the calendar it turns out that was 8 months ago.)

[DavidTO]

Well color me out-of-date.

I'll go sit in my not-paying-attention corner again. (Someone I know bought a macbook that was plastic, and I swear it was recently, but in checking the calendar it turns out that was 8 months ago.)


Heheh. You're getting old. Time starts speeding up. :deal

[Gadget_Girl]

OK so thank you all for your input. I picked up my mac today and I bought.....the mac book. Seeing as I use an external monitor 95% of the time I figured I was OK with the loss scree space. The new generation mac book's also have a separate video chip and seeing as I'm only making slideshows this works for me. The pro has the same chip X2. As for the processor, I have the 2.4 which is the same a the basic pro. I feel that I did get what I needed without going overboard. So far I'm looking my new system. The only down side so far is that when I called Adobe to get my PC version of software switch to mac versions I need to pay for an upgrade because they aren't offering CS3 anymore- only CS4.
thanks again,
CL

[DavidTO]

Congrats, Gadget_Girl!

Let us know if you need any help with the transition. After we're done bickering over the correct answer, we'll get you squared away! :deal

[Andy]

Switched to the Macbook Air - woah, can't believe I toted around 5.6lbs when I could have this instead! :lol3

I'm digging it, very, very much.

[Moogle Pepper]

Switched to the Macbook Air - woah, can't believe I toted around 5.6lbs when I could have this instead! :lol3

I'm digging it, very, very much.

What is going to happen to your other macbooks?

[Pupator]

Switched to the Macbook Air - woah, can't believe I toted around 5.6lbs when I could have this instead! :lol3

I'm digging it, very, very much.

It's been great for me. I don't do "heavy processing" on the mobile anyway. Since the Air is so light I take it everywhere and get more use/joy out of it than I ever have any of my other more powerful (and heavy) laptops.

[Andy]

What is going to happen to your other macbooks?
I had a 15" MBP and it's now with a Smug Hero.

[W.W. Webster]

Switched to the Macbook Air ... I'm digging it, very, very much.Which model, Andy? :dunno

[Andy]

Which model, Andy? :dunno

1.86ghz w/ 120gb SSD and 2gb RAM.

[W.W. Webster]

1.86ghz w/ 120gb SSD and 2gb RAM.Solid state disk, eh? Nice! Is the performance good?

[Andy]

Solid state disk, eh? Nice! Is the performance good?
I like it! Seems very very responsive. Quiet, too :D

[W.W. Webster]

Quiet, too :DJust the muted groan in your hip pocket!

[cabbey]

Just the muted groan in your hip pocket!

More likely smuggy bought it, so the groan is really going to be an anguished scream when the countess sees the bill. But that will be muted by the almost 3000 miles between them. :rofl

[Andy]

But that will be muted by the almost 3000 miles between them. :rofl

Less than a buck a mile!

[DavidTO]

Anybody want a free license to one of my all-time favorite apps, 1Password (http://agilewebsolutions.com/products/1Password)? Serious interest only, please. :D


The free-ness of 1Password (http://agilewebsolutions.com/products/1Password) returns!

MacHeist (http://givingtree.macheist.com/) is giving it away for free for the holidays. I'm not sure how long it lasts, so if you want it, jump on it now. There's other stuffz for free, too! :clap

[Richard]

If you are running old firmware, the latest update can screw up your machine. Further info and a fix can be found here (http://www.idealog.us/2008/12/confirmed-apple-os-x-1056-update-can-break-your-macbook-pro.html).

[aquaticvideographer]

So if I'm running Boot ROM Version: MBP41.00C1.B03 and 10.5.6 and everything is working, should I run this firmware update?

[DavidTO]

So if I'm running Boot ROM Version: MBP41.00C1.B03 and 10.5.6 and everything is working, should I run this firmware update?


I'm of the mind that you should always run the firmware updates.

[Richard]

I'm of the mind that you should always run the firmware updates.

I tend to agree, but with all software updates, I like to wait a week or so after they are released and check the net for possible problems first. Firmware updates are not immune to issues and all vendors are suspect. Let the user beware.

[DavidTO]

You can see what kinds of problems people are having at macfixit.com, but they also tend to be a bit alarmist about this stuff.

[rainforest1155]

I discovered one file on my MBP that can't be copied anymore. Finder says it can't read or write the file when trying to copy it. MU commander copies 2/3 of the file and then stops. So it's the source file that is corrupted. The file is not within the FileVault.

Disk utility doesn't detect this as it seems to rely on its journal data and doesn't allow for a complete scan of the disk, or does it?

I'm not too worried about this single file, but I fear other files might be corrupted as well without me knowing.

Anyone know how to get a complete disk scan going on a Mac? Would Tech Tool Pro or DiskWarrior do the trick? If so, which one? Neither seem to have a free trial.
Or is there a free way to scan the entire disk? I also checked the command line version of diskutil and fsck, but they don't seem to offer a full disk scan. Maybe there's a hidden parameter?

Thanks for any advice.

Happy new year,
Sebastian

[Andy]

They're causing Smuggy customers lots of trouble with the Safari problem in OS 10.5.6 :cry

http://discussions.apple.com/message.jspa?messageID=8636637

[DavidTO]

I discovered one file on my MBP that can't be copied anymore. Finder says it can't read or write the file when trying to copy it. MU commander copies 2/3 of the file and then stops. So it's the source file that is corrupted. The file is not within the FileVault.

Disk utility doesn't detect this as it seems to rely on its journal data and doesn't allow for a complete scan of the disk, or does it?

I'm not too worried about this single file, but I fear other files might be corrupted as well without me knowing.

Anyone know how to get a complete disk scan going on a Mac? Would Tech Tool Pro or DiskWarrior do the trick? If so, which one? Neither seem to have a free trial.
Or is there a free way to scan the entire disk? I also checked the command line version of diskutil and fsck, but they don't seem to offer a full disk scan. Maybe there's a hidden parameter?

Thanks for any advice.

Happy new year,
Sebastian

Disk Warrior is awesome for fixing your directory. I'm not techie enough to know if it would fix the kinds of problems you're talking about, but I think it's the best solution out there to keep your disk healthy. It's something you should have in any case.

The problem with copying could be a permissions issue. Get info on the file and see if you have permission to read/write the file. If not, fix that and you should be able to copy it fine.

[BradfordBenn]

Howdy All-

So of course I can't leave well enough alone. I want to hook up both a USB printer and USB Hard Drive to my Airport Extreme. If I connect the Printer, it works. If I connect the USB HDD it works. If I connect both through a powered USB hub, only the printer works :dunno Anyone got any ideas? I did a firmware update on the Airport Extreme with no change.

MacBook Pro with 10.5.6 running on it.

[colourbox]

Anyone know how to get a complete disk scan going on a Mac? Would Tech Tool Pro or DiskWarrior do the trick? If so, which one? Neither seem to have a free trial.
Or is there a free way to scan the entire disk? I also checked the command line version of diskutil and fsck, but they don't seem to offer a full disk scan. Maybe there's a hidden parameter?

As far as I know, out of that list only TechTool Pro might have a full disk scan. DiskWarrior only does a disk directory scan, and I think that's what diskutil does too.

[rainforest1155]

Disk Warrior is awesome for fixing your directory. I'm not techie enough to know if it would fix the kinds of problems you're talking about, but I think it's the best solution out there to keep your disk healthy. It's something you should have in any case.

The problem with copying could be a permissions issue. Get info on the file and see if you have permission to read/write the file. If not, fix that and you should be able to copy it fine.

Thanks David. DiskWarrior has another scan to scan files and the structure, but it didn't find anything.

Good idea about the permissions, but in this case the permissions are all right. In fact, I can partially copy the file until the damaged area comes up. I used MU commander for that.

Sebastian

[rainforest1155]

As far as I know, out of that list only TechTool Pro might have a full disk scan. DiskWarrior only does a disk directory scan, and I think that's what diskutil does too.
Thanks. I bought TechToolPro just to notice that there doesn't seem to be a download version included. So I'll have to wait for it.

Out of impatience, I bought DiskWarrior, too. As mentioned in my last post, it didn't find the error, but once I've figured things out, I'll use it to optimize my directories.

Cabbey gave me an easy shell script that helped me to find the other broken files. Now I just have to find out why the files were corrupted. I hope that TechTool with its surface scan might be able to tell me if the drive has any faulty sectors. If that scan doesn't reveal any, the corruption might be originated in some recent crashes.

Here's the shell script from Cabbey if anyone's interested in doing a complete read of all the files on his drive:
find / -type f -print0 | xargs -0 cat > /dev/null

The / (slash) defines the path on where it starts. To just scan your user folder, you could use:
/Users/{your user name}

Sebastian

[cmason]

Isn't TechTool included with AppleCare?

https://support.apple.com/techtooldeluxe/main?id=dl

[rainforest1155]

Isn't TechTool included with AppleCare?

https://support.apple.com/techtooldeluxe/main?id=dl
Supposedly, it is. I don't have AppleCare, but a way cheaper replacement care program from a German Apple vendor. Even with the TechTool costs, it's still a lot cheaper and I do get the Pro version.

Sebastian

[DavidTO]

Isn't TechTool included with AppleCare?

https