TNT: DYN-O-MITE TIPS AND TRICKS by Paul Sahner

September 13, 2002

My computer just crashed...but at least I have a schedule!

On Tuesday, Apple released their new iCal calendar application. And it's buggy to say the least. Yeah, the potential is there. It's an absolutely stunning app as far as the GUI goes. But perhaps this SHOULD be branded 1.0b for beta. Reports of crashes and lack of features have been pouring in. Mainly, the lack of common sense in the way the buttons work: Some function, others confuse the user, and sometimes they just don't work at all. NOW, when the app DOES work, it is stunning.

I have found work arounds to using iCal. And I've pretty much filled up my calendar as much as I can at this point. But now, what can I do with it? Well, I could post it on my .Mac site...eh. But I don't plan on paying for that. Ok, heck. Maybe I'll post it on MY server! Yeah! iCal does have that feature. So now I've entered my server information and...uh...hello...no server? Oh well, it looks like the internet is a no-go as far as my iCal life goes. Hmmm, what about my Palm? No, that won't work until Apple releases iSync. Hmmmm...Maybe my iPod!? Nah, that depends on iSync too. But hey. Wait a minute! If I remember correctly, my iPod has a "Calendar" folder. Maybe I could use that to my advantage! Okay, enough thinking out loud. Here's what you can do to get your iCals on your iPod:

Open iCal and choose the calendar you want to put on your iPod (this way forces you to do them one at a time). Under the File menu choose Export.

Now, mount your iPod in firewire disk mode. If you have iPod software 1.2 or later you will see a "Calendar" folder.

Drag your calendars in there and they'll show up on the iPod next time! Just dismount the iPod, and under the "Extras" menu, check "Calendars". There ya go!

All-in-all, I *really* like where iCal is going. I love the fact that the dock icon turns into the date. I think the potential is there...but this release is borderline unacceptable." C'mon Apple, I know you have it in you.

QUICK ONE!

No BCC in Mail.app?!??!? Not true! Press "apple-shift-b" while in a new mail document! There it is!