How to Buy the Mac OS X Leopard

The Mac OS X Leopard is an updated operating system with over 300 additional features for Mac computers. Use the information below to learn more about Mac OS X Leopard and decide whether or not to buy the program.

Things You'll Need

• Mac computer with an Intel, PowerPC G5 or PowerPC G4 processor
• 512MB of memory
• DVD drive for installation
• 9GB of available disk space
• Some Leopard features require Internet access

Instructions

1. Think about how you prefer to search through files. With Leopard, the Quick Look tool gives you the option of searching through files without opening them, including multi-page documents and videos. It's a great feature to use when you don't know where a particular piece of information is, as you don't need to open numerous documents to find it.

2. Assess your need to use a Windows operating system. The Boot Camp program installs and runs Windows XP or Windows Vista on your Mac so you can use your Mac with either Leopard or a Windows-based operating system. It's ideal for users who frequently need to use Windows at a basic level.

3. Consider how often you need to back up your files. Leopard includes Time Machine, a program that automatically backs up everything on your computer once an hour, every day. You must purchase a separate external drive and keep it hooked up to your Mac for the backup to occur. When you need to retrieve files, select a date and view folders and documents as they appeared at that time.

4. Take into account the updated Finder viewing options. With the Cover Flow selection, you browse files just as you browse album art in the iTunes program. Upon opening a folder, Finder displays a preview of every document's first page to quickly show you the contents.

5. Examine what you want and need from your email program. Leopard offers a wide array of stationery templates so you can express your individual style. The updated list feature lets you highlight text in an email, click a button and add the content to your to-do list.

6. Evaluate your online preferences. Mac OS X Leopard comes with the Safari web browser. The operating system includes revised parental controls so you can supervise your kids' online activities and block inappropriate websites or contacts.