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   Mac Basics found in Computers & Technology  :  Hardware A   A   A
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Mac Basics
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Maximize your Mac experience.
 
With their sleek design, easy-to-use interface, and first-rate multimedia features, Apple’s Mac® computers are becoming more and more popular among consumers every year. Join the ranks of Mac devotees with a crash course on how to:
  • Choose the right Mac laptop or desktop model for your needs
  • Set up your Mac and master the basics of the Mac OS X operating system
  • Use the Mac’s iLife software to organize your music, movies, photos, and more
 
 
 
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What Is a Mac?

In 1984, Apple Inc. revolutionized the home computing market when it introduced the first Macintosh, or Mac, computer. The Mac was one of the first personal computers to utilize a graphical user interface, or GUI (gooey), and a mouse, rather than the command-line interface, on which then-popular IBMs relied. The Mac became popular because of its desktop publishing and graphics capabilities, and continues to thrive in a creative environment. Today, Apple’s Mac line includes laptops and desktops for personal computing, and top-of-the-line professional models.

Why Use a Mac?

Like any computer, a Mac can help you create spreadsheets and word processing documents, crank out numbers for the family budget, and get you on the internet. However, the Mac really earns its accolades when it comes to organizing, displaying, and sharing your pictures, movies, music, and websites. Thanks to the iLife software package included with every new Mac, doing so is easier than ever.

Operating Systems

An operating system organizes and controls a computer’s hardware and software. Most PCs use the Microsoft Windows® operating system; Macs use a system called OS X.

OS X

OS X (pronounced oh-ess-ten) first appeared in 2001. Its latest versions are called Tiger (released in 2005) and Leopard (late 2007). OS X comes standard on all new Mac models.

Classic (OS 9)

Older Macs came with Classic, or OS 9, an earlier operating system. Until recently, new Macs could run both OS 9 and OS X, but the latest Intel-based Macs run OS X only.
 
 
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