That is off topic though. The real purpose of this entry is to emphasize the importance of using a stand of some kind when using your note book computer. Today's computers are powerful and they can run hot. Running hot will shorten the life. There have been several documented incidents of note book computers bursting into flame. Granted they were almost always PCs and not Macs, but Macs can overheat too. It is so much easier to just use a stand.
Besides, it is better on your back and shoulders to elevate the desk top. The very best assortment of stands on the market, in my opinion, are made by LapWorks. I have reviewed several of their products in my column and have found them to be consistently outstanding. My favorite is the Ataché because it has built-in fans that absolutely keep your note book running cool. It is not something you would carry around with you though. It is for use on your desk. They make several other options that are light weight to carry with you.
If you don't already have a stand that you like I encourage you to at least check out their options. You won't be sorry.
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( 2.9 / 78 )You can make the folders and other icons on your desk top fit your own personality. For instance, you can have the hard drive icon be the icon of your particular type of computer rather than the generic hard drive icon. Or you can color code the folders. Or you can have all your folders set in a theme such as Star Trek. You can even use photos as icons. It is really easy to do.
The most time consuming part is conducting an Internet search for the folder or icon set that you want to use. You can usually find something you want for free, but you can also purchase sets if you wish.
Once you have your icon(s) selected follow these simple steps.
When working with an existing icon image such as a folder.
Choose the image you want to use, click on it once to select it, then choose copy from the Edit menu (or hit Command + C)
Find the folder you want to change. Click on it once and choose File > Get Info (or right click and choose Get Info)
An information window will open and in the top left of the window will be the current folder icon. Click on it once and choose Edit > Paste (or hit Command + V). The new icon image will replace the old one.
When working with a photo or other regular image.
Open the image using Preview or a graphics utility application such as Graphic Converter or Photoshop. You don’t have to adjust the size.
Follow the same steps as noted above.
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( 3 / 59 )If you have any involvement with a Mac User Group you should check out The Mug Center. Actually, you might want to become familiar with it even if you don't have access to a MUG in your area because you can get all kinds of great information at this location. Chuck Joiner, who is responsible for the site, creates several podcasts a month. Several of them are with the most respected and knowledgeable people in the world of Mac. Chuck is a wonderful interviewer and he knows how to put together a professional show.
If you are a member of a MUG you will find out what kind of specials are available to MUG only members and who is speaking where. You can even find out how to start a MUG in your area if there is not one.
Nancy
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( 2.9 / 72 )If a new user asks me today what is the best advice I can give them--what is the one thing I wish I had known when I first started using my Mac--the answer is simple. Find a Mac User Group if possible and become involved. It has been my experience that you will be surrounded by friendly people who are more than willingly to help you learn and problem solve. After all, they have all been where you are and they love the Mac enough to be part of a club that celebrates its uniqueness.
If you live in the Austin, Texas area then check out our group - Capitol Macintosh Users Group (CacMac).
If you don't, this list will help you find a user group near you.
Nancy
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