Chapter 4: Expanding Your Mac s Horizons

Overview

You are no longer a newcomer to Panther — you have mastered the basics of using the Finder, connecting to the Internet, launching applications, and manipulating windows.

Now it is time to raise the bar by moving on to some of the more advanced features within Mac OS X — tricks that can help keep you organized, protect your personal information, communicate with other devices, and even control your Mac with your voice. You may not need to use these features during each computing session, but they can really deliver in certain situations: For example, you may not have to create a PDF document every day, but when you need to offer a long document for downloading on your Web site, Panther’s Save As PDF feature comes in very handy!

This chapter provides tips and tricks for experienced Mac OS X users. I demonstrate how to reveal the UNIX command prompt, how to enhance data security with FileVault and Secure Empty Trash, and how to boot from a specific operating system. This chapter also includes information on connecting with portable devices using iSync and shows you how to add new fonts to your system. For those who need a little organization help, I cover how to use Stickies to jot simple notes and how to add an event or appointment in iCal. Finally, I demonstrate Panther’s powerful voice command feature, which activates an entirely new method of operating your computer.