The magazine of the Melbourne PC User Group For Mac OS X - for the bookshelf Major Keary |
The Mac OS X Panther Book is not graphics-based, but does make extensive use of screen shots to support the text. The focus is on tips and techniques that will help novice and intermediate-level users get the best out of OS X. If you are a first-time Mac user, or have migrated to OS X, this is an easy-to-read guide to using the system and applications. The format is tutorial, and the style is conversational; no technical knowledge is assumed, and where technical matters are discussed the author explains them in clear language.
A well-presented and comprehensive guide to the Panther version of OS X.
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Andy Ihnatko: The Mac OS X Panther Book ISBN 0-7645-6794-2 Published by Wiley, 381 pp., RRP $46.95 incl. GST |
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Mac OS X Illustrated, written and designed in Australia, is - as the title
suggests - a graphics-based book. It uses annotated, full colour screen shots to
deliver its information. The supporting text (annotations and commentary) is
concise and clear, avoiding unnecessary technical discussion without patronising
the reader. There is an assumption that the reader is familiar with a pre-OS X
version of the Mac OS and wants to be brought up to speed.
The OS X (pronounced OS ten) system differs significantly from its predecessors,
so one of the first things to confront an upgrading user is where is everything.
Chapter 1 explains where the old familiar things are to be found, and describes
the innovations that come with OS X. The following chapters progress logically
through the various aspects of using and managing OS X, including networking and
the Internet, security issues, using a scripting language, and the various
applications that come as part of the system.
Finding a good user manual is not easy. Many vendors don't bother providing one,
and when one is in the box it is likely to be poorly presented. If you don't
like reading manuals, this format is the answer. Its visual approach is
exceptionally well done, and the content is well organised and indexed. I like
the idea of placing a glossary at the front of the book.
If you want to fast track your transition to OS X, this is highly recommended.
It is also an excellent overview for anyone wanting to know what's in OS X abd
how it works.
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Colleen Bate and Stephen Withers: Mac OS X Illustrated, Panther 10.3 edition ISBN 0-7645-4397-0 Published by Wiley, 287 pp., RRP $38.95 incl. GST |
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