Utilities Updates: G4 Firmware; File Buddy; DFA Doubler; more

Power Mac G4 Firmware Update 4.2.8 replaces the 4.1.9 update that was withdrawn shortly after its release due to a potential audio problem (see previous coverage). The Power Mac G4 Firmware Update 4.2.8 will run only on Power Mac G4 and Macintosh Server G4 models with AGP graphics running Mac OS 9.1 or later from a local hard disk.

As with the previous update, this one "includes improvements to starting up Mac OS X from the local hard disk, FireWire target disk mode, network startup, gigabit networking (on systems with gigabit hardware), and system stability. This update also adds support for additional security options that allow the Open Firmware to be password-protected."

Bob Bousfield writes: "After installing the update, my external LaCie FireWire CD-R (Yamaha 2200) will no longer recognize a blank CD-R disk. Both Toast and Disk Copy see the drive but when either utility asks for a CD-R disk to be inserted the disk is not recognized. This may be specific to the model of CD-R I have."

Roy Woodford found that installing the Update allowed support for his QPS QueFire CD-RW (PX-W8432-T, Firmware 1.05).

Other readers report overall success with the update, fixing the audio problem and even an apparent increase in performance speed.

File Buddy 6.1.4 is the latest version of this top-notch desktop and file/folder editing and task tool.

Disk First Aid Doubler 1.1.1 lets you shorten or eliminate the 2-minute delay after the startup disk check under Mac OS 8.5 and later. The update fixes a General Controls check on 8.x.

Iconographer 2.2 allows you to both change the icons of items, as well as edit the icon resources used by< various programs. The update adds support for loading and editing of Windows XP icons. It also speeds optimizations and adds cosmetic improvements under Mac OS X.

AppleSpec Database (10/16/01) has been updated to include the new Macs released this week. Note: This is a third-party database, not an Apple one.

EURL 2.0 is a utility for organizing and storing URL bookmarks. Among its several new features, it now has the ability to export/import to/from an HTML file.

The Analogue Ripper 1.0.1 allows recording of LPs, Cassettes, 8-Track tapes, Reel To Reel - in fact any analogue sound source for which you have playback equipment. The Ripper includes powerful editing and playback tools to break large sound files up into tracks. The update includes several bug fixes.