The Panther release of Mac OS X continues the development of the Macintosh operating system. Mac OS X has become the dominant OS on the Macintosh platform and is currently the default OS on all new Macintosh computers. Mac OS X is a complex and powerful operating system for which no documentation is provided by Apple outside of the Apple Help system, which contains very limited information.Special Edition Using Mac OS X Pantherprovides the in-depth, wide ranging coverage that enables Mac users to get the most out of the operating system and included tools.This book explains how to get the most out of the core OS, including the Finder, desktop, and system customization. The book also shows readers how to use OS X's Internet applications for email, Web surfing, and .mac for publishing content on the Net.One of the book's major strengths is the extensive coverage of iTunes, iPhoto, iDVD, and iMovie. QuickTime and QuickTime Pro are also covered. The book helps readers understand and configure the technologies to expand their systems.

Brad Miser has written extensively about all things Macintosh, with his favorite topics being OS X and the amazing "i" applications that empower Mac OS X users to unleash their digital creativity. In addition to Special Edition Using Mac OS X Panther, Brad has written many other books, including Mac OS X and iLife: Using iTunes, iPhoto, iMovie, and iDVD; iDVD 3 Fast & Easy; Special Edition Using Mac OS X v10.2, Mac OS X and the Digital Lifestyle; Special Edition Using Mac OS X; The iMac Way; The Complete Idiot's Guide to iMovie 2; The Complete Idiot's Guide to the iMac; and Using Mac OS 8.5. He has also been an author, development editor, or technical editor on more than 50 other titles. He has been a featured speaker on various Macintosh-related topics at Macworld Expo, at user group meetings, and in other venues.

Brad is the senior technical communicator for an Indianapolis-based software development company. Brad is responsible for all product documentation, training materials, online help, and other communication materials. He also manages the customer support operations for the company and provides training and account management services to its customers. Previously, he was the lead engineering proposal specialist for an aircraft engine manufacturer, a development editor for a computer book publisher, and a civilian aviation test officer/engineer for the U.S. Army. Brad holds a Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering from California Polytechnic State University at San Luis Obispo (1986) and has received advanced education in maintainability engineering, business, and other topics.

In addition to his passion for Macintosh computers, Brad likes to run and play racquetball; playing with home theater technology is also a favorite pastime. He has also been a volunteer with the Zionsville Eagles High School football team.

Once a native of California, Brad now lives in Brownsburg, Indiana with his wife Amy; their three daughters, Jill, Emily, and Grace; and their guinea pig, Buddy.

Brad would love to hear about your experiences with this book (the good, the bad, and the ugly). You can write to him at bradmacosx@mac.com.