I got a Mac laptop (12" powerbook), thought I'd try something different.
Unix with a non-X interface, you have to like that. My favourite thing
is the beautiful font renderer.
I asked some friends -
Cory,
Evan,
Jason,
Eric,
and Raffi - for advice on what
to install to make my Mac happy. Things I've found useful so far:
- VersionTracker,
MacUpdate, and
Mac OSX hints
- Useful websites. If you're searching Google for Mac software,
adding "macosx" to the search term usually gets you what you want.
- QuickSilver
- Program launcher. Like
LaunchBar, only
free.
- Firefox
- Web browser. Make the default via Safari preferences.
- Fire or
Adium X
- Free multiprotocol instant messengers.
- Enhanced
Carbon Emacs
- I'm going to be using Brain-Implant emacs in 2023.
- Vera
Sans Mono font
- Good fixed width font. Apple's Monaco and Andale are both
acceptable, but Vera is best. Note: this looks awful in Terminal
unless you enable anti-aliasing via
Terminal / Window settings / Display.
- MacPython
- MacOSX 10.3 has Python, but it's missing the IDE.
- MacStumbler
- For finding wireless networks.
- Fink
- Debian-like ports of traditional Unix apps to MacOSX. I haven't
used it yet, but it's good to know it's there.
- X11 server
- Looks like a good port
- iPulse
- Pretty system monitor
- MacJanitor
- Run cron jobs by hand. Useful for laptops.
- SideTrack
- Essential for laptops; replacement Trackpad driver. Lets you
right-click, scroll, etc. Apple should buy this.
Some other things my friends recommended but I don't need or want:
BBEdit
(text editor, a classic),
Ecto (blog writing tool),
Shrook (feed reader),
iSeek (search tool),
iOrganize (note taker),
FTPeel
or
Transmit
(ftp clients),
VLC (multimedia player)
Remote
Desktop Connection (open your Windows desktop),
SubEthaEdit
(collaborative text editor).
The main thing I'm missing is a more convenient app for sshing.
Terminal is OK, but it feels awkward when using remote hosts. And I
can't figure out how to click on a URL to open it. Command-doubleclick. Thanks, David and Steve.
And is there a
DQSD for Mac?
iSeek or
Butler.
