How to Use the Mac OS X Leopard Boot Camp

Mac OS X Leopard's Boot Camp enhances ordinary Apple computers into powerhouse machines capable of running two different operating systems. With Boot Camp, Mac users have the option of running applications in their native operating systems of Windows or Leopard without having to switch computers.

Instructions

1. Back up your data.

2. Verify that your Mac is Intel-based.

3. Visit Apple's official website and download Boot Camp. Boot Camp's file should appear on your desktop with a .dmg file extension.

4. Click on the .dmg file. Read and print the "Read Before You Install" and "Installation & Setup Guide" files.

5. Access and click the "Boot Camp Assistant" icon. Select "Macintosh HD" as the installation destination and press "Continue." Authenticate yourself by typing your name and password.

6. Close the installer once the installation has finished.

7. Use Spotlight to locate Boot Camp's updated installation assistant. If you'd like to manually search for it, look under "Applications" and "Utilities." Click on Boot Camp's new installation assistant.

8. Update your computer's firmware by accessing Apple's "Support Downloads" website, downloading the appropriate files and rebooting your system.

9. Check if your computer's drivers are up-to-date by inserting a DVD containing the Leopard operating system and selecting to install drivers. Update them if necessary.

10. Install a compatible version of Windows (either XP or Vista) onto your Mac. Use the PDF setup guide available on your Mac as a reference to ensure that the installation goes smoothly.

11. Choose which operating system to run when you start up your computer. Hold down the "Option" key and click on your desired operating system in the boot manager to be taken to your preferred platform.

Tips & Warnings

• You will still have access to your Mac applications when in the Windows operating system.

• If you use a keyboard that is made by the Apple company, hold down to the "Alt" key to access the boot manager.

• Older models of Intel Macs need their EFI firmware updated before a Boot Camp installation.