Computer Connections

Computer Connections 6.04

BY LLOYD PREZANT

May | June 2004
Issue No.16

Panther runs better
Apple has released an update to Mac OS 10.3 (Panther) and Panther server. OS X 10.3.4 brings these improvements: improved disc burning and recording functions; third generation iPods and iPod minis will now work with iSync and iTunes using the USB 2.0 interface; and better directory and file sharing services using Mac (AFP), UNIX (NFS), PPTP and wireless networks. There's more: added FireWire USB and audio device compatibility; updated Mail, Safari, Address Book, Stickies and QuickTime applications; and improved compatibility for third party applications. This over 40 MB update (that includes all previous security updates) can be accessed using the Software Update control panel.
Panther Server (now at 10.3.4): enhances Server Admin and Network Image Utility applications; improves Open Directory scalability and replication reliability; provides additional support for FireWire and USB devices; better Active Directory integration and all the previous security updates. It's a 45 MB to download. You'd better have a broadband connection to update to either 10.3.4 update. It's highly recommended for all OS X users! Use the Software Update control panel to get 10.3.4. For more information, go to www.apple.com/macosx. or to download it, go to:
www.apple.com/support/downloads/
macosxupdate_10_3_4.html.

OfficeRestore rescues
SubRosaSoft.com Ltd's has a new data recovery application called OfficeRestore. It recovers Microsoft Word and Microsoft Excel documents that users have erased either intentionally or accidentally. The program is easy to use. Opening OfficeRestore brings you to the main window. It is here that you use the previous and next buttons to select the media you want to restore. Then you click the start button and it makes a copy of the files to your hard disk in the folder of your choice. You need to be using Mac OS 10.2 or higher, and be willing to pay $24.95. Interested? Here's the Website. Paste it into your browser if you don't have a photographic memory! www.subrosasoft.com/thestore/
product_info.php?&products_id=430.

Safari Security save
Apple has issued an update that fixes a security problem in their Safari Web browser. This problem allows the execution of malicious code on Mac computers using Safari 1.2.1 and Internet Explorer 5.2. Although experts agree that this is not such a high risk as compared to Windows users, the update should be downloaded and applied just to be safe. Use the Software Update control panel to download Security Update 2004-05-24 (not necessary for users who update to 10.3.4).

Eudora less buggy
Qualcomm Inc. has made available a new version of their e-mail client application. Eudora 6.1.1 takes care of several bugs in the older versions of the program. Two of the most pressing bug fixes - the handling of unusual local folders and contextual filing to IMAP mailboxes with children have been solved. You need to be running OS X 10.0 or higher to use this version. Priced at $49.95. Upgrades are available - free from version 6.0 or 6.1 if bought after April 2003 or $39.95 if before May 1, 2003. There are free versions (that do not have 1 year tech support you get when you pay) in two types: light mode and sponsored mode. The light mode lacks some of the program's features. The sponsored mode puts ads (up to three toolbars of 'em) in your window, but give you all of the features. You decide how you want your Eudora. When you do, go to: www.eudora.com.

Apple's hot DVD deal
Apple has a hot promotion going on right now. Named Director's Special, users get a $300 rebate when they buy Apple's DVD Studio Pro and Macromedia Director MX 2004.. If you buy a PowerMac G5 you get another $200 off the package price. Disclaimer - terms and conditions apply. Mail-in coupon may be required. See your local Web site for details. Offer expires July 31, 2004 (did you say those in a low and fast voice? Then you too can be hired for commercial voice-overs!). http://hotdeals.apple.com/applestore/index.php.

Dual-layer DVD+R discs will reach the American shores this June. Developed by Mitsubishi Kagaku (under the Verbatim name), these discs will have 8.5GB of recording space compared to the single layer discs that have 4.7GB. These discs have a second layer that is accessed by a single laser. The first layer is semi-transparent, allowing enough reflectivity for data playback and storage. This allows light to pass through to the second layer. Similar technology is already in use in commercial DVD-Video discs insuring compatibility in a majority of DVD drives already out in users' homes and businesses. Before this, to get increased capacity, people had to use double-sided discs that offered 9.4 GB (2x the single sided discs). These discs, currently available, require users to remove and turn over the disc to access the second side. Recording drives that support dual-layer media are arriving to market as we speak.

Lacie's dual drive
LaCie (as I am speaking!) will be shipping the D2 - DVD+R and DVD-R Double Layer drive. Housed in an external case, it will burn DVD-R discs at up to 8x speed, DVD-RW discs at up to 4x speed and have FireWire 400 and USB 2.0 connections. Imagine putting up to 16 hours of high quality video, whether it's your old VHS, 8MM (etc.) or some new video content you have created, all on one single disc! Back up entire databases or systems with just a few discs. The possibilities are endless. Included in the package will be Roxio's Toast 6.0. Look for the D2 this month. Priced at $249, it is a must buy for the hi-capacity user! www.lacie.com/news/news.htm?id=10091

Microsoft's iPod killer
Microsoft Corp. plans to create and market their own line of portable music players starting as low as $50. These devices will work with a Microsoft-made music download service that will be on-line later in 2004. This is in response to Microsoft's criticism of Apple's use of FairPlay, a digital rights management program that competes with Microsoft's Windows Media Audio (WMA) digital rights management program. WMA exists in many other commercial on-line music services and is also supported by many Windows-compatible portable digital audio players. Apple's FairPlay works only with their iPod and does not support WMA. Stay tuned....

Lloyd Prezant is a NYC computer consultant who buys and sells recent used Mac computers and their peripherals. Call him at (718) 548-1623.

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