Leopard Coverage: Pitfalls to Consider

Finally, after two years of waiting, Apple’s next cat is loose amongst us eager fanboys. While the upgrade path has been smooth-sailing for most, it hasn’t been all sweet for others.

Instead of just writing yet another review, which every single Apple blog out there seems to be doing, MacApper has decided to compile a list of potential pitfalls and problems echoing around the blogosphere. Here we go.

1. Older Computers

How old a computer can you use with Leopard? Turns out, you can even use an 8-year-old machine, at least according to Engadget. There were a lot of graphics issues, which led them to recommend a G4 running Leopard as a “kid’s computer”.

If you’re running a machine of that age, we really suggest upgrading. The experience on an Intel or even a late model G5 processor will be so much better. However, if you still have your sights set on that trusty G4 of yours, then we really can’t stop you. Let us know how it goes!

2. Disk Space and Memory Usage

Reports are coming in saying that Leopard requires slightly more system memory compared to Tiger, but it really isn’t an issue for those who have more than 1GB RAM. For the best performance, we suggest upgrading to 2GB of memory. Not only will it help with multitasking, but it will provide a much richer and seamless experience.

In terms of disk space, Apple recommends 9GB. If you’re upgrading from Tiger, only 3.3GB of extra space is needed (although this value differs depending on what you choose to install). Like our recommendation with the G4 machine above, more is always better. Get as much disk space as you can, and an external drive too. Which brings me to…

3. Time Machine

This is one of the biggest features that everyone’s looking forward to. Based on the new Core Animation framework, it has one of the most unique user interfaces ever seen in a program. Unfortunately, it will only back up to an external hard drive (Apple previously mentioned Airport Disks), although a workaround is being developed.

Time Machine will take some time to create a backup (if you have a ton of data), so let it run overnight. Don’t use it too much while it’s building backups because that will slow down the process. If the backup fails, right click on the icon and select “Backup Now”.

4. Docks/Stacks

There’s really only one word to describe the new dock. Ugly. If you prop it up on one side, the confusing 3D shadows disappear, and a simpler dock appears. Unfortunately, if you pop the dock onto one side, stacks don’t work as well. You no longer get the fan view; instead you’re simply stuck with grid view. For those longing for a simpler dock, open terminal and type:

defaults write com.apple.dock no-glass -boolean YES
killall dock

5. Classic Programs

Don’t cry now, but they’re all gone. That’s right, according to Apple, Leopard will not support Classic apps. For the young ones among us, the Classic environment refers to Mac OS 9, the predecessor to OS X. The solution? Cherish the last moments, and then find a Leopard-compatible version.

Sorry for being so harsh.

6. iChat Effects

Apple seems to be going back on their words again. First it was Time Machine, then iPhone Notes, and now iChat. The cool blue Star Wars style, seen here at WWDC this year is noticeably absent. Will they reappear in a later software update? Let’s hope so.

iChat also seems to be using a lot of CPU power (in excess of 80%) when rendering these effects. The upside is that all the other new features like screen sharing and ichat theatre, plus its overall usability actually make it a comparable option to Adium.

7. Mail

Depending on the size of your mailbox, Mail.app can take several minutes to build its database. However, once it’s done, Mail should run much faster than before. The new stationary looks great, but all my mails are sent in plain text anyway.

One of the touted features in Mail.app, which is the recognization of important dates and addresses, doesn’t seem to work so well. Mail can misinterpret this information, especially once the email has been forwarded and replied to. This really defeats the purpose of having smart data recognition. Just a thought.

If you’ve encountered any other problems, or if you know of a solution, why not leave a comment? We’ll be sure to give you a plug!