Utilities Updates: G3 Firmware Update; Office/FileMaker Importer; StuffIt Engine SDK; Formac driver; more

Apple has released Power Macintosh G3 Firmware Update 1.0.2. It should be installed on all G3/BW and Macintosh Server G3 systems. It includes improved performance of PCI devices including built-in FireWire ports, improved support of NetBooting, and minor improvements to Open Firmware for Mac OS X Server. [Mike Shulman sent an initial report of a failure to get the Update to install. We have since received numerous reports of success and failure with this Update; we'll post the details on Monday.]

Microsoft has announced the availability of Office 98/FileMaker Pro Importer, a new Office 98 add-in for easy integration with FileMaker Pro.

StuffIt Engine SDK has been updated to version 5.1.2. It is a maintenance release and is a free update to registered users. The big feature here is tighter compression over 5.0.1.

Formac GA 5.4.4 (beta) driver for its graphics cards is out. You will also need the Firmware Utility and the latest Firmware. Formac sent the following note: "These should also work with cards sold as MacTell Vision 3D Pro. The cards are the same and can be converted to a genuine Formac card by upgrading the firmware. Prior to installation, remove all old Control panels and Extensions. The new driver will install its extensions during the second reboot (it is hidden inside the Control Panel and copied into the Extensions Folder when you check your settings of the Control Panel). New Rave and OpenGL functions still have to be confirmed."

Chronos Consultant 2.5.7 has been released.

LockOut 1.0"helps keep people from using your Mac while you're away."

MacLaunchIt 1.2.1 launches any application simply by entering a full or partial application name. The update eliminates the need for a serial number.

Window Tamer 2.0 has been released. It adds Horizontal, Vertical, Diagonal Left and Diagonal Right positioning for convenience - plus has some bug fixes.

Contour Designs' UniMouse Overdrive is a control panel that offers scrolling, application sensitivity and cursor speed controls for its USB mouse. If you would prefer not to use a control panel, you can use the "Drop-in Extension" drivers. The control panel is licensed from Alessandro Montalcini developer of USB Overdrive. (Thanks, Pete Langlois.)