My computer is a 15 inch G4 notebook.? I always use an external keyboard with it.? I despise typing on a notebook keyboard.? It is a personal thing, but I just canit type well on the notebook keyboards and I donit like the long reach that is required.?
So for what it is worth, from one experienced typist, the new keyboard is great.? The keys are well spaced, the keyboard is quiet, the keys move smoothly, and I like the fact that they are set down into the board because there is less chance for damage.? One new feature of the new keyboard is the addition of graphic images for each of the “F” keys that remind you of what they can do.?
Be sure and note that the Bluetooth version of this new design is designed like a notebook keyboard while the standard style includes all the elements you usually find on a full keyboard, such as the full keypad.?
Both versions are available on the Apple Web site and should also be available anywhere else Apple products are sold.? Cost is US$49 for the USB version and $79 for the Bluetooth version.
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| New USB Keyboard |
New Bluetooth Keyboard |
Tip #1 (For slot-loading CD/DVD drives)
If you have a serious problem with your Mac (it can happen!) you can find yourself needing to insert a CD to start the repair process.? It could be your system install disk or a disk for a repair application like Diskwarrior.? The problem is, you canit insert a CD if your computer wonit turn on and you canit fix the problem unless you insert the CD.? There is a solution.
Gently put the CD in the slot as far as it will go.? The emphasis is on gently.? Hold down the ?C? key while you start the computer and your CD should slide in the rest of the way on its own.
Tip #2 (Repairing Permissions)
If you donit back up your computer routinely (and you know you should, but that is a lecture for another day), at least protect yourself by backing up important stuff before you install new software.?? Even installations of good, reliable software can cause glitches and it is better to be safe than sorry.? (Boy is that an old saw.)? After you install new software you should also routinely run Disk Utility and have it run the Repair Permissions routine.? Hereis how:
Open Disk Utility by choosing Applications > Utilities > Startup Disk (in left column)
Click First Aid.
Click Repair Disk permissions to test and repair permissions
Tip #3 (Announcements)
If you find extraneous verbal announcements such as “Itis not my fault ……..” annoying, it is easy to turn them off.
Choose Apple Menu > System Preferences > Speech > Text To Speech.? Remove the check mark from the box next to “Announce when an application requires your attention.?
Systems Preference Speech Window