MacMost: Archives

You can use Mac OS X's built-in file compression command to create a ZIP archive of a single file or group of files. This comes in handy if you need to send files to someone else or simply want to archive an old project.

If you are a MobileMe user you can turn on iDisk Sync to create a way to share files between your Macs and your iDisk storage. Your iDisk is then treated like a normal local drive and automatically syncs with the server. Other Macs using iDisk Sync with your account will automatically stay in sync as well.

Learn how to capture yourself talking from a webcam while also recording your screen at the same time. You can use software like Screenflow or Wirecast to record from both sources simultaneously. You can also fake it with iMovie's picture-in-picture.

You can quickly build a DVD from a single video file using the OneStep DVD from Movie option in iDVD. You can also make DVDs from several movies and photos using the Magic iDVD option. Magic iDVD projects can also be a starting point for regular customize iDVD projects.

You can type most accent marks on a Mac by simply using an option key combination. Learn how to quickly type the most common accents and also how to find and insert less common accents and symbols.

Learn how Time Machine is different than most backup solutions that simply clone and update the data on a drive. Time Machine saves multiple copies of your files and allows you to access each version as long as it has space.

Learn about the developer tools in Safari. You can view JavaScript error messages, send output to the console, and step through your code using the debugger.

Carriers charge a premium for text messaging bandwidth. But you can send and receive text messages for free using some apps. With a Google Voice account and the Google Voice app, you can send, receive and get notifications of incoming messages even when the app isn't running.

You can add functionality to Gmail using Gmail Labs extensions. Take a look at some of the most useful extensions, like Multiple Inboxes, Superstars, Canned Responses, Inserting Images and Undo Send.

You can use the Track Changes feature of Pages in iWork 09 to edit documents. Suggestions are recorded and can be accepted or rejected later. Multiple writers and editors can work on a document and all changes will be recorded along with the editor and time. Comments can also be added.

Web developers should know that they can edit their Mac's hosts file to supersede DNS and point a domain name to a different web server. This is very useful for testing out sites before launching them or switching DNS.

Learn how to use all four Finder view types: Icons, List, Columns, and Cover Flow. Each has its own uses and options.