January 2003
Friday, January 31, 2003
Scripting Safari URLs Update
Two small updates regarding last week's "Scripting Safari URLs" article. [Daring Fireball]
8:28:26 PM
Eudora 5.2.1 b3
Among the changes: Fixed crash when running a script from the Scripts menu.
8:21:54 PM
iPhoto Mailer Patcher 2.0
iPhoto Mailer Patcher uses AppleScript to give iPhoto 2 the ability to send pictures with Claris Emailer, Mailsmith, Outlook Express, PowerMail and QuickMail Pro. A version for iPhoto 1.1.1 is also available.
8:15:19 PM
ScriptBuilders News
Updates: Cache Out 3.0.2
7:13:06 PM
Macworld Magazine: March 2003
In the latest issue of Macworld magazine, Andy Ihnatko says "Forget HyperCard - The future is AppleScript Studio." He briefly offers his take on the shortcomings and advantages of developing with AppleScript Studio and he believes that AppleScript users will outgrow AppleScript and move on to "RealBasic or another conventional development environment".
Two small updates regarding last week's "Scripting Safari URLs" article. [Daring Fireball]
8:28:26 PM
Eudora 5.2.1 b3
Among the changes: Fixed crash when running a script from the Scripts menu.
8:21:54 PM
iPhoto Mailer Patcher 2.0
iPhoto Mailer Patcher uses AppleScript to give iPhoto 2 the ability to send pictures with Claris Emailer, Mailsmith, Outlook Express, PowerMail and QuickMail Pro. A version for iPhoto 1.1.1 is also available.
8:15:19 PM
ScriptBuilders News
Updates: Cache Out 3.0.2
7:13:06 PM
Macworld Magazine: March 2003
In the latest issue of Macworld magazine, Andy Ihnatko says "Forget HyperCard - The future is AppleScript Studio." He briefly offers his take on the shortcomings and advantages of developing with AppleScript Studio and he believes that AppleScript users will outgrow AppleScript and move on to "RealBasic or another conventional development environment".
While I know developers who have moved on to other development environments, I'm also aware of many who have used AppleScript for many years because it is/was the best tool for the job, and they will continue to use AppleScript as long as it meets their needs.
12:00:54 PM
FileStorm 1.5
FileStorm is a scriptable tool which has been designed to quickly package and deliver OS X software products. Changes in this version include: Added AppleScript variable "building" to wait for build, finalize, encode completion allowing for interactive AppleScripts.
11:35:14 AM
Update Fixer 1.2
Update Fixer uses AppleScript to fix a common problem in Mac OS X where Software Update fails to log installed updates (even though they were actually installed). Changes in this version: Added second utility to test post-fix access conditions. Added checks for problems into the original utility before performing fix. Added sample .log file to help more advanced users wanting to reconstruct their missing log entries.
7:28:24 AM
Thursday, January 30, 2003
GlobalPreferencesLocker 1.0.1
GlobalPreferencesLocker uses AppleScript to help avoid kernel panics on logout as discussed on the Apple Discussion Board. Changes in this version: Updated documentation and minor code corrections.
12:29:56 PM
QuickTime QuickBatch 1.0
QuickTime QuickBatch is an AppleScript Studio application for one-click conversion of multiple media files using 18 export settings in QuickTime Player. Options are available for getting full conversion info on media files, choice of recent or default conversion settings, and file replacing. Requires OS X 10.2 or higher and QuickTime Pro.
12:09:55 PM
GlobalPreferencesLocker uses AppleScript to help avoid kernel panics on logout as discussed on the Apple Discussion Board. Changes in this version: Updated documentation and minor code corrections.
12:29:56 PM
QuickTime QuickBatch 1.0
QuickTime QuickBatch is an AppleScript Studio application for one-click conversion of multiple media files using 18 export settings in QuickTime Player. Options are available for getting full conversion info on media files, choice of recent or default conversion settings, and file replacing. Requires OS X 10.2 or higher and QuickTime Pro.
12:09:55 PM
Wednesday, January 29, 2003 Tuesday, January 28, 2003
ScriptBuilders News
Updates: Cache Out X 3.0.1, iPod Free File Sync 2.3.3
7:14:27 PM
MacSlash: Can I Make Money Writing Shareware for Mac?
Anonymous Coward writes "Should I join the ranks of shareware developers?" Opinions range from "Don't quit your day job" to "Yes You Can".
5:28:12 PM
New 'Maintain' utilities released
The newly updated lineup of 'Maintain' utilities use AppleScript and a simple interface to allow OS X users to run various UNIX maintenance scripts without using the Terminal. New releases today include 'Maintain Your Cron' and 'Maintain Your Cache'.
5:17:32 PM
Upcoming book: Sams Teach Yourself AppleScript in 24 Hours
By Jesse Feiler | Scheduled release: April 21, 2003 | Paperback
4:53:34 PM
Spring 1.1b2
Spring is a desktop-browser hybrid for people, places, products, etc. Changes in this version include: The dialog "The Spring Object you want to send is no longer available." doesn't appear, due to an AppleScript issue.
2:59:39 PM
Software Protection and Piracy
Slava Karpenko, lead programmer at Unsanity, offers his views on software protection and piracy. Unsanity is the developer of several popular OS X utilities such as FruitMenu, Labels X, Xounds, WindowShade X and more.
12:56:24 PM
Mac OS X Hints: Extracting Exchange vCalendars from Mail.app
lx: "When I receive a vCalendar request from someone through Microsoft Exchange, Mail.app doesn't recognize the included vCalendar as an attachment and so it renders the content of the vCalendar instead of giving me an icon to click. I was able to remedy this shortcoming in Mail by setting up a new Mail rule which runs the AppleScript given below." ...
12:10:14 PM
Updates: Cache Out X 3.0.1, iPod Free File Sync 2.3.3
7:14:27 PM
MacSlash: Can I Make Money Writing Shareware for Mac?
Anonymous Coward writes "Should I join the ranks of shareware developers?" Opinions range from "Don't quit your day job" to "Yes You Can".
5:28:12 PM
New 'Maintain' utilities released
The newly updated lineup of 'Maintain' utilities use AppleScript and a simple interface to allow OS X users to run various UNIX maintenance scripts without using the Terminal. New releases today include 'Maintain Your Cron' and 'Maintain Your Cache'.
5:17:32 PM
Upcoming book: Sams Teach Yourself AppleScript in 24 Hours
By Jesse Feiler | Scheduled release: April 21, 2003 | Paperback
Sams Teach Yourself AppleScript in 24 Hours offers a clearly written, well organized introduction to AppleScript. The book starts with running existing scripts, then teaches the reader to write simple scripts to create shortcuts and increase productivity on the Mac OS, then moves on to working with popular Macintosh applications with scripts.My little disclaimer: Following the URL to Amazon to purchase this book will result in a small commission for MacScripter.net. I'm affiliated with MacScripter.net and the commissions help to offset the costs associated with running our volunteer effort to provide a valuable resource for the AppleScript community.
4:53:34 PM
Spring 1.1b2
Spring is a desktop-browser hybrid for people, places, products, etc. Changes in this version include: The dialog "The Spring Object you want to send is no longer available." doesn't appear, due to an AppleScript issue.
2:59:39 PM
Software Protection and Piracy
Slava Karpenko, lead programmer at Unsanity, offers his views on software protection and piracy. Unsanity is the developer of several popular OS X utilities such as FruitMenu, Labels X, Xounds, WindowShade X and more.
12:56:24 PM
Mac OS X Hints: Extracting Exchange vCalendars from Mail.app
lx: "When I receive a vCalendar request from someone through Microsoft Exchange, Mail.app doesn't recognize the included vCalendar as an attachment and so it renders the content of the vCalendar instead of giving me an icon to click. I was able to remedy this shortcoming in Mail by setting up a new Mail rule which runs the AppleScript given below." ...
12:10:14 PM
Monday, January 27, 2003
Apple Technote: do shell script in AppleScript
This Technote describes basic techniques and answers common questions for AppleScript's do shell script command, which was introduced in AppleScript 1.8.
11:25:02 PM
Google Search: How to take a screen shot from AppleScript
A recent Google search for "How to take a screen shot from AppleScript" landed someone on this web site. If you are using Jaguar, it offers the ability to take screen shots via the command line, which means that it can also be done via AppleScript. Apple's Ken Bereskin offers details about the command line utility 'screencapture' which makes this possible. For a simple AppleScript demo, run this from your favorite AppleScript script editor and then take a look at the clipboard (via the Finder's Edit menu). The script simply takes a screen shot and sends it to the clipboard.
This Technote describes basic techniques and answers common questions for AppleScript's do shell script command, which was introduced in AppleScript 1.8.
11:25:02 PM
Google Search: How to take a screen shot from AppleScript
A recent Google search for "How to take a screen shot from AppleScript" landed someone on this web site. If you are using Jaguar, it offers the ability to take screen shots via the command line, which means that it can also be done via AppleScript. Apple's Ken Bereskin offers details about the command line utility 'screencapture' which makes this possible. For a simple AppleScript demo, run this from your favorite AppleScript script editor and then take a look at the clipboard (via the Finder's Edit menu). The script simply takes a screen shot and sends it to the clipboard.
do shell script "/usr/sbin/screencapture -c"
I use this in a script that takes a screen shot, places it in a GraphicConverter window, and then saves it as a JPEG file on the desktop. If you are running a version of Mac OS prior to OS X, you'll likely need an osax to script this task. A visit to osaxen.com should be sufficient to find an osax to handle the job and I'd be surprised if Akua Sweets doesn't offer this capability.
9:59:53 PM
Use OmniGraffle and AppleScript to create a visual map of web site traffic
James Spahr used OmniGraffle and AppleScript to generate a visual mapping/representation of his website's traffic. The result is quite interesting.... [mrbarrett.com]
7:23:10 PM
iView MediaPro weblog is now Safari friendly
If you've visited the iView MediaPro weblog recently while using Safari, you may have discovered that Safari was having problems displaying the content. Modifications have now been completed to address the issue, so you might want to check it out for iView MediaPro news, tips, templates and scripts.
12:57:01 PM
Mac Net Journal: Nisus reminds everyone that Writer is still coming
There is no target date for the release of Nisus Writer, but the company assures OS X users that it is coming... Note: The article referenced by MNJ goes on to say: "The Mac OS X version of the word processor will have three ways of creating macros: AppleScript, Perl, and menu-based macros."
12:37:15 PM
Squid Manager 1.2
Squid Manager is an AppleScript Studio application that provides a simple graphical interface for controlling and monitoring a Squid web proxy cache. Users can perform many tasks, including starting and stopping Squid, rotating the Squid log files, enabling full debugging mode, and reloading the configuration file. Actions can be performed via menus, key commands, and directly from the Dock. [MacScripter.net]
9:19:05 AM
Sunday, January 26, 2003
starTime 1.5.4
starTime allows you to create reminders that will play sounds, run macros, or run applications (including AppleScript applications) when they come due. This version fixes a bug related to the new year. Requires Mac OS X 10.1 or later.
5:51:09 PM
ScriptBuilders News
Updates: Cache Out X 3.0
5:41:21 PM
starTime allows you to create reminders that will play sounds, run macros, or run applications (including AppleScript applications) when they come due. This version fixes a bug related to the new year. Requires Mac OS X 10.1 or later.
5:51:09 PM
ScriptBuilders News
Updates: Cache Out X 3.0
5:41:21 PM
Saturday, January 25, 2003
NetNewsWire Pro 1.0b13
NetNewsWire Pro is a scriptable RSS news reader which also provides an editor for many popular weblog systems. This release includes category editing support for Radio, Movable Type, and Manila (news items) sites. It also fixes a minor bug which caused some AppleScript scripts to fail. For more details, see the change notes. Update: This page describes how to configure NetNewsWire and Radio UserLand so you can use NetNewsWire to edit your Radio weblog.
9:11:53 PM
Make the Connection 1.0
Make the Connection is a suite of four scripts to ease connections in OS X to any Telnet, SSH, FTP, or SFTP server via Terminal. Each script is nearly identical, allowing quick connections as well as a stored address book. Make the Connection runs only in OS X and is freeware.
3:24:15 PM
Get DAT Updates 1.4
Get DAT Updates compares the currently installed virus DAT file (Virex) against the latest on NAI's FTP server. If there is an updated version, the file can be downloaded and installed. Changes in this version: Added autostart feature so it can run without interaction unless new version can be installed. Source code is available (AppleScript Studio).
1:43:34 PM
CCEdit 1.3.2
This AppleScript droplet changes the creator codes of files, working on individual files or all files contained in a folder. [d/l]
12:52:05 PM
iTunes Screensaver 1.0
This AppleScript script launches the visuals from iTunes in full screen mode without sound. The script requires OS X 10.2 or higher and ScriptSaver. [d/l iTunes ScreenSaver 1.0] [d/l ScriptSaver 2.0]
11:57:35 AM
NetNewsWire Pro is a scriptable RSS news reader which also provides an editor for many popular weblog systems. This release includes category editing support for Radio, Movable Type, and Manila (news items) sites. It also fixes a minor bug which caused some AppleScript scripts to fail. For more details, see the change notes. Update: This page describes how to configure NetNewsWire and Radio UserLand so you can use NetNewsWire to edit your Radio weblog.
9:11:53 PM
Make the Connection 1.0
Make the Connection is a suite of four scripts to ease connections in OS X to any Telnet, SSH, FTP, or SFTP server via Terminal. Each script is nearly identical, allowing quick connections as well as a stored address book. Make the Connection runs only in OS X and is freeware.
3:24:15 PM
Get DAT Updates 1.4
Get DAT Updates compares the currently installed virus DAT file (Virex) against the latest on NAI's FTP server. If there is an updated version, the file can be downloaded and installed. Changes in this version: Added autostart feature so it can run without interaction unless new version can be installed. Source code is available (AppleScript Studio).
1:43:34 PM
CCEdit 1.3.2
This AppleScript droplet changes the creator codes of files, working on individual files or all files contained in a folder. [d/l]
12:52:05 PM
iTunes Screensaver 1.0
This AppleScript script launches the visuals from iTunes in full screen mode without sound. The script requires OS X 10.2 or higher and ScriptSaver. [d/l iTunes ScreenSaver 1.0] [d/l ScriptSaver 2.0]
11:57:35 AM
Friday, January 24, 2003
MacDevCenter: Software Strategies for Emerging Developers
"When considering what type of software you want to bring to the market, which appeals to you: proprietary, shareware, open source, or freeware? Ruffnex, the creator of StreamRipper X, puts some cards on the table for you to consider how to play your hand."
8:22:02 PM
Virex Folder Scan Scripts 1.0.1
This pair of scripts includes a script to enable Folder Actions and a Folder Action script that uses the command line component of Virex 7.x to autoscan downloaded files. If no virus is detected, nothing further is done. If a virus is detected, you get a dialog advising that a virus was found and deleted. The script can be attached to multiple folders. Requires OS X 10.2 or higher. [d/l]
7:55:02 PM
Palm
"Every programmer at some point owes it to themselves to write code that has to run on a device with about 25k of free memory and 3k of stack. I promise you a journey of self-discovery that you just won't get from writing AppleScript code." [Steven Frank - Panic]
6:19:47 PM
Extending the Script Editor 2 Beta with Context Menu Scripts
"One of the interesting aspects of the Script Editor 2.0 Beta is the improved capability of using itself to enhance the creation of scripts. Once the beta is installed, control-clicking in a script document will bring up a context menu that includes scripts."
3:52:16 PM
Impression 0.41 (alpha 4)
Developed with AppleScript Studio, Impression is a Cocoa-based backup utility for Mac OS X that can back up a large directory to multiple optical disks (CD-R and CD-RW are supported at this time). Requires OS X 10.2.x and a supported drive. Constructive feedback is desired by the developer.
3:45:43 PM
ScriptBuilders News
Updates: Entourage Email Archive X 1.5
2:02:41 PM
ImageCaster 1.0.4
ImageCaster is a scriptable webcam broadcasting solution for OS X. It can take virtually any image, from video camera or other sources, and broadcast it on the WWW. It can add overlay text and graphics and upload schedules can be customized. Among the many changes in this release: Improved error reporting to the activity log when script execution fails. Data-fork only AppleScripts will now be correctly executed. Eliminated an exception that was being raised when a blank path was specified for a pre- or post- delivery script. The "Anonymous login" and "Maintain connection between uploads" FTP options can now be accessed/altered via AppleScript.
1:03:06 PM
Satimage osax X 2.5.2
Satimage osax for OS X implements several powerful technologies into AppleScript, making them available to all scripters. Features include regular expressions, navigation services, fast math on arrays of real numbers and a highly customizable incremental file backup command. The dictionary for the osax can be viewed online, as can the release notes. This version fixes all known bugs.
12:00:13 PM
PTHiTunesNotifier 2.0
PTHiTunesNotifier is an application that, with the help of AppleScript, displays the currently playing iTunes track in an overlay window. It allows you to control iTunes from the menu bar and via Hot Keys. The information is shown in an overlay window whenever the current track changes and disappears after a few seconds. Changes in this version: Completely rewritten as an application. Added ability to control iTunes from the menubar. Added ability to control iTunes via HotKeys. Added ability to set different font attributes in the overlay window. Added ability to keep overlay window up all the time. Added ability to not have overlay window above all other windows. Added several new transition styles. Requires OS X 10.2 or later.
11:38:51 AM
Scheduler 3.4
Scheduler offers reminders with many scheduling options. It is able to schedule the launch of applications, AppleScripts, documents (in the desired application), web pages (in the desired web browser) and file downloads (in the desired web browser). When used to schedule scripts, Scheduler can target specific script handlers and pass arguments to them. [release notes]
12:13:29 AM
"When considering what type of software you want to bring to the market, which appeals to you: proprietary, shareware, open source, or freeware? Ruffnex, the creator of StreamRipper X, puts some cards on the table for you to consider how to play your hand."
8:22:02 PM
Virex Folder Scan Scripts 1.0.1
This pair of scripts includes a script to enable Folder Actions and a Folder Action script that uses the command line component of Virex 7.x to autoscan downloaded files. If no virus is detected, nothing further is done. If a virus is detected, you get a dialog advising that a virus was found and deleted. The script can be attached to multiple folders. Requires OS X 10.2 or higher. [d/l]
7:55:02 PM
Palm
"Every programmer at some point owes it to themselves to write code that has to run on a device with about 25k of free memory and 3k of stack. I promise you a journey of self-discovery that you just won't get from writing AppleScript code." [Steven Frank - Panic]
6:19:47 PM
Extending the Script Editor 2 Beta with Context Menu Scripts
"One of the interesting aspects of the Script Editor 2.0 Beta is the improved capability of using itself to enhance the creation of scripts. Once the beta is installed, control-clicking in a script document will bring up a context menu that includes scripts."
3:52:16 PM
Impression 0.41 (alpha 4)
Developed with AppleScript Studio, Impression is a Cocoa-based backup utility for Mac OS X that can back up a large directory to multiple optical disks (CD-R and CD-RW are supported at this time). Requires OS X 10.2.x and a supported drive. Constructive feedback is desired by the developer.
3:45:43 PM
ScriptBuilders News
Updates: Entourage Email Archive X 1.5
2:02:41 PM
ImageCaster 1.0.4
ImageCaster is a scriptable webcam broadcasting solution for OS X. It can take virtually any image, from video camera or other sources, and broadcast it on the WWW. It can add overlay text and graphics and upload schedules can be customized. Among the many changes in this release: Improved error reporting to the activity log when script execution fails. Data-fork only AppleScripts will now be correctly executed. Eliminated an exception that was being raised when a blank path was specified for a pre- or post- delivery script. The "Anonymous login" and "Maintain connection between uploads" FTP options can now be accessed/altered via AppleScript.
1:03:06 PM
Satimage osax X 2.5.2
Satimage osax for OS X implements several powerful technologies into AppleScript, making them available to all scripters. Features include regular expressions, navigation services, fast math on arrays of real numbers and a highly customizable incremental file backup command. The dictionary for the osax can be viewed online, as can the release notes. This version fixes all known bugs.
12:00:13 PM
PTHiTunesNotifier 2.0
PTHiTunesNotifier is an application that, with the help of AppleScript, displays the currently playing iTunes track in an overlay window. It allows you to control iTunes from the menu bar and via Hot Keys. The information is shown in an overlay window whenever the current track changes and disappears after a few seconds. Changes in this version: Completely rewritten as an application. Added ability to control iTunes from the menubar. Added ability to control iTunes via HotKeys. Added ability to set different font attributes in the overlay window. Added ability to keep overlay window up all the time. Added ability to not have overlay window above all other windows. Added several new transition styles. Requires OS X 10.2 or later.
11:38:51 AM
Scheduler 3.4
Scheduler offers reminders with many scheduling options. It is able to schedule the launch of applications, AppleScripts, documents (in the desired application), web pages (in the desired web browser) and file downloads (in the desired web browser). When used to schedule scripts, Scheduler can target specific script handlers and pass arguments to them. [release notes]
12:13:29 AM
Thursday, January 23, 2003
AppleScript and application services in the closet
"It's good stuff, Apple, show it off."
8:09:49 PM
Easily toggle graphics in Mail
Two recent Apple KnowledgeBase articles discuss how HTML graphics in mail relate to spam and how to turn HTML graphics on or off. Instead of making a trip to the Preferences window to change the HTML graphics option, here's a simple AppleScript to toggle that option. [MacMegasite]
7:09:18 PM
oopener 0.9
oopener is a AppleScript script that integrates OS X, X11.app, and OpenOffice 1.0.1. The two main features are: (1) automatically open X11.app as needed, open OpenOffice, bring to front and (2) drag office-type docs into its icon to pull up the document in OpenOffice.
3:40:30 PM
Daring Fireball: Scripting Safari URLs
John Gruber: "In my initial review of Safari, I complained about its lack of scriptability. Ends up that criticism was somewhat misguided — Safari actually is fairly scriptable."
3:23:28 PM
Schedule iTunes AppleScripts with iCal
Doug Adams offers advice and scripts to help get you started using iCal to schedule iTunes scripts. A visit to Apple's iCal scripting page is recommended to prepare iCal for the scheduled scripts.
Note: On January 19, it was noted here that the instructions on the iCal scripting page were incorrect. The error has since been corrected.
3:13:48 PM
Startup Syringe 1.0.6
Startup Syringe is a AppleScript script that allows users to change the Apple logo, displayed at startup time, to an image of their choice. This version works only with Mac OS X 10.2.4. For 10.2 through 10.2.3, use Startup Syringe 1.0.5.
12:14:44 PM
ScriptBuilders News
Updates: Cache Out X 2.5.1
11:45:47 AM
Dev Note: Special Move 1.0
Special Move is a free drag'n'drop application that let's you enable or disable the auto-extraction feature of disc images (.dmg files) that was silently introduced with Mac OS X 10.2.
10:10:50 AM
"It's good stuff, Apple, show it off."
8:09:49 PM
Easily toggle graphics in Mail
Two recent Apple KnowledgeBase articles discuss how HTML graphics in mail relate to spam and how to turn HTML graphics on or off. Instead of making a trip to the Preferences window to change the HTML graphics option, here's a simple AppleScript to toggle that option. [MacMegasite]
7:09:18 PM
oopener 0.9
oopener is a AppleScript script that integrates OS X, X11.app, and OpenOffice 1.0.1. The two main features are: (1) automatically open X11.app as needed, open OpenOffice, bring to front and (2) drag office-type docs into its icon to pull up the document in OpenOffice.
3:40:30 PM
Daring Fireball: Scripting Safari URLs
John Gruber: "In my initial review of Safari, I complained about its lack of scriptability. Ends up that criticism was somewhat misguided — Safari actually is fairly scriptable."
3:23:28 PM
Schedule iTunes AppleScripts with iCal
Doug Adams offers advice and scripts to help get you started using iCal to schedule iTunes scripts. A visit to Apple's iCal scripting page is recommended to prepare iCal for the scheduled scripts.
Note: On January 19, it was noted here that the instructions on the iCal scripting page were incorrect. The error has since been corrected.
3:13:48 PM
Startup Syringe 1.0.6
Startup Syringe is a AppleScript script that allows users to change the Apple logo, displayed at startup time, to an image of their choice. This version works only with Mac OS X 10.2.4. For 10.2 through 10.2.3, use Startup Syringe 1.0.5.
12:14:44 PM
ScriptBuilders News
Updates: Cache Out X 2.5.1
11:45:47 AM
Dev Note: Special Move 1.0
Special Move is a free drag'n'drop application that let's you enable or disable the auto-extraction feature of disc images (.dmg files) that was silently introduced with Mac OS X 10.2.
10:10:50 AM
Wednesday, January 22, 2003
ScriptBuilders News
Updates: Cache Out X 2.5
8:22:42 PM
GlobalPreferencesLocker 1.0
GlobalPreferencesLocker uses AppleScript to help avoid kernel panics on logout as discussed on the Apple Discussion Board.
5:43:35 PM
Get Safari URL 1.0
Get Safari URL is an AppleScript script that gets the page title and the URL of the frontmost window in Safari and creates a draft message in Entourage. The page title is inserted in the subject and the URL is inserted in the body of the draft message. [MacUpdate]
9:35:34 AM
Desktop Control 1.0
Desktop Control provides AppleScript scripts that allow users to quit the Finder, restart the Finder and restart the Dock.
9:27:41 AM
Updates: Cache Out X 2.5
8:22:42 PM
GlobalPreferencesLocker 1.0
GlobalPreferencesLocker uses AppleScript to help avoid kernel panics on logout as discussed on the Apple Discussion Board.
5:43:35 PM
Get Safari URL 1.0
Get Safari URL is an AppleScript script that gets the page title and the URL of the frontmost window in Safari and creates a draft message in Entourage. The page title is inserted in the subject and the URL is inserted in the body of the draft message. [MacUpdate]
9:35:34 AM
Desktop Control 1.0
Desktop Control provides AppleScript scripts that allow users to quit the Finder, restart the Finder and restart the Dock.
9:27:41 AM
Tuesday, January 21, 2003
ScriptBuilders News
New: Tiffix 1.1
6:20:21 PM
Smile updated again: Smile 2.5.2 available
There's been another update to Smile. Smile 2.5.2 fixes a bug of the windows accessor. Now you can safely request "every window", "some window" or even "middle window".
4:16:49 PM
Safari Source in BBEdit
Using AppleScript to view HTML source code from Safari in BBEdit... [Daring Fireball]
2:59:04 PM
Mac OS X Hints: Run AppleScripts via system services
DougAdams: "Apple's Script Editor 2.0 for OS 10.2.3 has support for Application Services." ... "My website posts valid examples of AppleScripts, and using the Script Editor Service, visitors can see the code in action immediately. Of course, like any great innovation (fire, atomic fission, et al), this technique must be used with Great Care." ...
10:52:43 AM
Lista de correo AppleScript en castellano
The following announcement was sent to various AppleScript mailing lists. Announcement in Spanish:
English translation:
9:09:16 AM
iCan 1.0.1
iCan is a scriptable, customizable trashcan for OS X desktops. Changes in this version: Now deletes files from remote volumes without unexpectedly quitting. Expanded the AppleScript dictionary. The trashcan icon retains its position when its caption is turned off and on.
8:31:40 AM
Smile 2.5.1 and Satimage osax 2.5.1 for OS X
Smile is a free script editor for AppleScript and also a fully object-oriented graphical user interface builder for Mac OS X. This new vintage brings a higher standard of comfort, more scripting helpers and numerous improvements in every domain. The release notes list more than 35 new features and improvements. Since Smile 2.5.1 and Satimage osax 2.5.1 fix a number of bugs and stability issues concerning the regular expressions and the "backup" command, all users of the Satimage osax should install the 2.5.1 release.
12:13:20 AM
New: Tiffix 1.1
6:20:21 PM
Smile updated again: Smile 2.5.2 available
There's been another update to Smile. Smile 2.5.2 fixes a bug of the windows accessor. Now you can safely request "every window", "some window" or even "middle window".
4:16:49 PM
Safari Source in BBEdit
Using AppleScript to view HTML source code from Safari in BBEdit... [Daring Fireball]
2:59:04 PM
Mac OS X Hints: Run AppleScripts via system services
DougAdams: "Apple's Script Editor 2.0 for OS 10.2.3 has support for Application Services." ... "My website posts valid examples of AppleScripts, and using the Script Editor Service, visitors can see the code in action immediately. Of course, like any great innovation (fire, atomic fission, et al), this technique must be used with Great Care." ...
10:52:43 AM
Lista de correo AppleScript en castellano
The following announcement was sent to various AppleScript mailing lists. Announcement in Spanish:
A quienes estin interesados, hemos abierto una lista de correo para applescripter de habla hispana (incluyendo AppleScript Studio, por supuesto).
English translation:
We've opened a new applescript-spanish-speakers mail list in a Yahoo group (also included AStudio, of course).
9:09:16 AM
iCan 1.0.1
iCan is a scriptable, customizable trashcan for OS X desktops. Changes in this version: Now deletes files from remote volumes without unexpectedly quitting. Expanded the AppleScript dictionary. The trashcan icon retains its position when its caption is turned off and on.
8:31:40 AM
Smile 2.5.1 and Satimage osax 2.5.1 for OS X
Smile is a free script editor for AppleScript and also a fully object-oriented graphical user interface builder for Mac OS X. This new vintage brings a higher standard of comfort, more scripting helpers and numerous improvements in every domain. The release notes list more than 35 new features and improvements. Since Smile 2.5.1 and Satimage osax 2.5.1 fix a number of bugs and stability issues concerning the regular expressions and the "backup" command, all users of the Satimage osax should install the 2.5.1 release.
12:13:20 AM
Monday, January 20, 2003
CD Changer 1.0
CD Changer is a virtual 5-disc CD changer for OS X. With help from AppleScript, it uses the albums from iTunes to make a playlist of albums consecutively, just like a CD changer.
12:04:34 PM
Mac OS X Hints: Run Repair Permissions via an AppleScript
mahakali: "I was browsing this forum, looking for a way to enable journal." ... "By combining this with AppleScript, you can easily repair permissions from Script menu or Youpi Key or Quickeys without having to open Disk Utility (which, by the way, isn't scriptable.)" ...
11:03:07 AM
Mac OS X Hints: Launch X11 apps from the Finder
jk806: "I was thrilled to see the X11 release package from apple." ... "It was all so easy... but what I really wanted was to be able to start The Gimp from the Finder. So I whipped up a quick applescript to do just that." ...
10:54:00 AM
Mac OS X Hints: An AppleScript to switch Mail's SMTP servers
Anonymous: "Here is an Apple Script that will let you change your SMTP servers depending on your location." ...
10:50:06 AM
Kung-Tunes 2.1.3
Kung-Tunes is an OS X utility to retrieve the currently playing iTunes track and upload it to a web server for display on web pages. Kung-Tunes is developed with AppleScript Studio and source code is available. Changes in this version: Now properly encodes HTML entities in date string.
10:05:23 AM
CD Changer is a virtual 5-disc CD changer for OS X. With help from AppleScript, it uses the albums from iTunes to make a playlist of albums consecutively, just like a CD changer.
12:04:34 PM
Mac OS X Hints: Run Repair Permissions via an AppleScript
mahakali: "I was browsing this forum, looking for a way to enable journal." ... "By combining this with AppleScript, you can easily repair permissions from Script menu or Youpi Key or Quickeys without having to open Disk Utility (which, by the way, isn't scriptable.)" ...
11:03:07 AM
Mac OS X Hints: Launch X11 apps from the Finder
jk806: "I was thrilled to see the X11 release package from apple." ... "It was all so easy... but what I really wanted was to be able to start The Gimp from the Finder. So I whipped up a quick applescript to do just that." ...
10:54:00 AM
Mac OS X Hints: An AppleScript to switch Mail's SMTP servers
Anonymous: "Here is an Apple Script that will let you change your SMTP servers depending on your location." ...
10:50:06 AM
Kung-Tunes 2.1.3
Kung-Tunes is an OS X utility to retrieve the currently playing iTunes track and upload it to a web server for display on web pages. Kung-Tunes is developed with AppleScript Studio and source code is available. Changes in this version: Now properly encodes HTML entities in date string.
10:05:23 AM
Sunday, January 19, 2003
Six More Scripts for Safari Beta
Here are six more assorted scripts for use with Safari Beta. Safari URLs and web page information are downloaded and sent to Stickies, iCal, and Internet Location files for various purposes.
10:56:44 PM
CronniX 2.0.1
CronniX is a Aqua frontend to the powerful Unix tool "cron". Cron is a Unix system service that allows scheduled execution of scripts, programs, applications - in short anything that can be started from the command line. This includes OS X applications and AppleScript scripts. Version changes: Fixed a bug that would crash CronniX when parsing a crontab with environment variables like the system crontab.
10:53:19 PM
Regarding Apple's instructions for the iCal script mentioned yesterday...
In reviewing the instructions (as of noon EST on January 19, 2003), I've discovered what I believe to be an error. I've notified Apple but here is what I believe needs to be corrected.
In paragraph 4 of step #1, it says:
Of course I could be wrong, but the corrected version worked for me.
12:29:56 PM
Here are six more assorted scripts for use with Safari Beta. Safari URLs and web page information are downloaded and sent to Stickies, iCal, and Internet Location files for various purposes.
10:56:44 PM
CronniX 2.0.1
CronniX is a Aqua frontend to the powerful Unix tool "cron". Cron is a Unix system service that allows scheduled execution of scripts, programs, applications - in short anything that can be started from the command line. This includes OS X applications and AppleScript scripts. Version changes: Fixed a bug that would crash CronniX when parsing a crontab with environment variables like the system crontab.
10:53:19 PM
Regarding Apple's instructions for the iCal script mentioned yesterday...
In reviewing the instructions (as of noon EST on January 19, 2003), I've discovered what I believe to be an error. I've notified Apple but here is what I believe needs to be corrected.
In paragraph 4 of step #1, it says:
A window named "iCal" will open. This window will contain a single folder named "Contents". Place the script file "Mail.scpt" that you downloaded into the "Contents" folder. Confirm in the forthcoming dialog that you want to replace the existing script.Here's what I think it should say:
A window named "iCal" will open. This window will contain a single folder named "Contents". Open the "Contents" folder. This will reveal, among other things, a "Resources" folder. Place the script file "Mail.scpt" that you downloaded into the "Resources" folder. Confirm in the forthcoming dialog that you want to replace the existing script.
Of course I could be wrong, but the corrected version worked for me.
12:29:56 PM
Saturday, January 18, 2003
Apple: Use iCal to run an AppleScript script as an event action
"Scripters have often requested the ability to execute scripts at specific times. Although the iCal application has the ability to post an alarm or send an email, it does not currently support the option of running an AppleScript script as an event action. By following the steps described below, you can alter the iCal application to include this feature."
I'm not sure if this is new or not but I just discovered it on Apple's site and I can't find anything in the archives that refer to it. Other scripters have released similar scripts and I apologize if this is old news. -- Rob
3:17:52 PM
TuneCam 1.5
TuneCam is a webcam-like application for use in combination with iTunes. It gathers information about the current track in iTunes, creates a (custom) HTML or TEXT file containing this information and uploads this file to an FTP server or saves it on your disk. Again and again in predefined intervals. Here's an example of TunCam in action. AppleScript Studio source code is available upon request.
10:31:52 AM
ScriptBuilders News
Updates: Drop 'n Mail 2.5, New: Makarra 1.0b2
9:58:52 AM
"Scripters have often requested the ability to execute scripts at specific times. Although the iCal application has the ability to post an alarm or send an email, it does not currently support the option of running an AppleScript script as an event action. By following the steps described below, you can alter the iCal application to include this feature."
I'm not sure if this is new or not but I just discovered it on Apple's site and I can't find anything in the archives that refer to it. Other scripters have released similar scripts and I apologize if this is old news. -- Rob
3:17:52 PM
TuneCam 1.5
TuneCam is a webcam-like application for use in combination with iTunes. It gathers information about the current track in iTunes, creates a (custom) HTML or TEXT file containing this information and uploads this file to an FTP server or saves it on your disk. Again and again in predefined intervals. Here's an example of TunCam in action. AppleScript Studio source code is available upon request.
10:31:52 AM
ScriptBuilders News
Updates: Drop 'n Mail 2.5, New: Makarra 1.0b2
9:58:52 AM
Friday, January 17, 2003
NetNewsWire Pro 1.0b12
This release adds better support for Blosxom and Blosxom-compatible weblogs, including support for sub-folders and a script that can be run when posting a new or edited file. See the change notes for more details. [ranchero.com]
9:43:29 PM
MacDevCenter: Cleaning iTunes
The Gracenote CD Database is a handy tool to help us classify music in our iTunes databases, but the CDDB is not perfect. brian d foy shows you how to easily tidy up your records by using iTunes' built-in tools and a little AppleScript.
9:39:46 PM
Macworld Review: iListen 1.5
"iListen relies on AppleScript to do its stuff, which means that if you're handy with AppleScript, you can write your own scripts. If you're not, you won't find many ways to work around iListen's command-and-control deficiencies."
2:17:18 PM
KleinWare scripts updated
Mail2iCal, updated to version 1.1.4, allows users to export new email messages from all accounts in Mail to calendars in iCal. Changes in this version: Now exports fitting messages when executed from a Mail rule, selected messages when run from Script menu (or manually). [d/l]
Mail2iCalTodo, updated to version 1.2, exports Reply-To and subject of selected emails from Mail to iCal to-do entries of a user defined calendar. Changes in this version: Changed the code to allow easy execution from a rule. The script will now work on selected messages when called from the Script menu and on fitting messages when called from a rule. [d/l]
1:22:55 PM
Folder Actions + AppleScript = Desktop Blogging. Literally.
"...it's going to be about turning your Mac into a weblogging machine." ... "When links are dropped into the folder, a script is triggered which posts the link to a weblog via BloggerAPI."
9:13:21 AM
Google Search: AppleScript creating text files
Someone recently landed on this site while apparently searching Google for a way to create text files with AppleScript. "AppleScript Guidebook: Essential Sub-Routines", from Apple, offers a routine that "can be used to safely write data to disk. It is designed to work with TEXT files and if there is no existing file, will create one as needed." If you need further assistance, feel free to visit the MacScripter BBS.
8:28:35 AM
YVS Picture Translator 1.2.4
YVS Picture Translator is a picture conversion program with extensive AppleScript support. All AppleScript functions can be performed on displayed images or off-screen. This version fixes a number of bugs, adds a few more AppleScript properties to YVS Picture Translator, and includes a few new AppleScript scripts. [version history]
8:11:42 AM
MacScripter: Scripting Additions archive reaches 200!
Kirk Klingbiel: "With the recent addition of the UnicodeUtils osax, we now have 200 scripting addition packages archived, cataloged, and online in the Scripting Additions database. Martin Fenner and Julio Sancho have been diligently researching every osax that can be found or submitted, and keeping the archive up-to-date."
What a great resource! With Sherlock plug-ins, an XML-RPC interface and a RSS feed, it's very easy to find osaxen and stay up to date on the latest releases. Users of Script Debugger 3 can take advantage of a built-in feature which uses the online database to locate missing scripting additions in compiled scripts. Thanks go to Martin and JJ for all of their hard work!
6:33:28 AM
This release adds better support for Blosxom and Blosxom-compatible weblogs, including support for sub-folders and a script that can be run when posting a new or edited file. See the change notes for more details. [ranchero.com]
9:43:29 PM
MacDevCenter: Cleaning iTunes
The Gracenote CD Database is a handy tool to help us classify music in our iTunes databases, but the CDDB is not perfect. brian d foy shows you how to easily tidy up your records by using iTunes' built-in tools and a little AppleScript.
9:39:46 PM
Macworld Review: iListen 1.5
"iListen relies on AppleScript to do its stuff, which means that if you're handy with AppleScript, you can write your own scripts. If you're not, you won't find many ways to work around iListen's command-and-control deficiencies."
2:17:18 PM
KleinWare scripts updated
Mail2iCal, updated to version 1.1.4, allows users to export new email messages from all accounts in Mail to calendars in iCal. Changes in this version: Now exports fitting messages when executed from a Mail rule, selected messages when run from Script menu (or manually). [d/l]
Mail2iCalTodo, updated to version 1.2, exports Reply-To and subject of selected emails from Mail to iCal to-do entries of a user defined calendar. Changes in this version: Changed the code to allow easy execution from a rule. The script will now work on selected messages when called from the Script menu and on fitting messages when called from a rule. [d/l]
1:22:55 PM
Folder Actions + AppleScript = Desktop Blogging. Literally.
"...it's going to be about turning your Mac into a weblogging machine." ... "When links are dropped into the folder, a script is triggered which posts the link to a weblog via BloggerAPI."
9:13:21 AM
Google Search: AppleScript creating text files
Someone recently landed on this site while apparently searching Google for a way to create text files with AppleScript. "AppleScript Guidebook: Essential Sub-Routines", from Apple, offers a routine that "can be used to safely write data to disk. It is designed to work with TEXT files and if there is no existing file, will create one as needed." If you need further assistance, feel free to visit the MacScripter BBS.
8:28:35 AM
YVS Picture Translator 1.2.4
YVS Picture Translator is a picture conversion program with extensive AppleScript support. All AppleScript functions can be performed on displayed images or off-screen. This version fixes a number of bugs, adds a few more AppleScript properties to YVS Picture Translator, and includes a few new AppleScript scripts. [version history]
8:11:42 AM
MacScripter: Scripting Additions archive reaches 200!
Kirk Klingbiel: "With the recent addition of the UnicodeUtils osax, we now have 200 scripting addition packages archived, cataloged, and online in the Scripting Additions database. Martin Fenner and Julio Sancho have been diligently researching every osax that can be found or submitted, and keeping the archive up-to-date."
What a great resource! With Sherlock plug-ins, an XML-RPC interface and a RSS feed, it's very easy to find osaxen and stay up to date on the latest releases. Users of Script Debugger 3 can take advantage of a built-in feature which uses the online database to locate missing scripting additions in compiled scripts. Thanks go to Martin and JJ for all of their hard work!
6:33:28 AM
Thursday, January 16, 2003
Announcement: Christian xTalk discussion forum
The following announcement recently appeared on various AppleScript related mailing lists.
7:12:01 PM
MacMP3Gain 1.0
MacMP3Gain is an AppleScript Studio application which wraps up the command line version of mp3gain in a quaint GUI. It is free and open source.
2:16:28 PM
Pothter 1.0b2
Pothter is an OS X AppleScript script that presents a user friendly dialog for posting the contents of a folder to Usenet via the Thoth newsreader client. Warnings are given if conventions used in the alt.binaries.mac hierarchy are not followed and it offers users the option to modify the text of the subject line. Changes in this version: Added the ability to modify file names as well as the text of the subject line. [d/l]
2:04:37 PM
Make Mine MPEG-4 v4.0.1
This AppleScript Studio application automates the process of ripping and then encoding iTunes CD tracks as MPEG-4 audio files using QuickTime 6.x Pro. Changes in this version: .mov files now include track number annotation. "Save as .mov" now handles long filenames. Removed "encoder branding" in Comments field.
1:36:38 PM
Mac OS X Hints: Attach AppleScripts to Mail.app rules
russh: "A member of the Mail.app development team passed along this script that uses the 'perform_mail_action' handler to access messages that match the given rule or rule object. In other words, it kicks up a dialog box that automagically tells you a rule was matched and what the message was that matched."
11:08:24 AM
Mac OS X Hints: Assign AppleScripts to Logitech mice buttons
jeb1138: "I have a Logitech MX700 mosue and was digging around through the Logitech Daemon package that gets installed when you install the Logitech Control Center and found a hidden property that you can enable to let you execute AppleScripts using your mouse buttons" ...
11:03:29 AM
iCan 1.0 released
iCan is a scriptable, customizable trashcan for OS X desktops for those who still miss the one in OS 9. It indicates the current status of the Trash (full or empty) and several themes are included. Users can also create their own themes (instructions included) and iCan comes with several sample AppleScript scripts.
10:19:12 AM
PipeAlert 0.6.1
PipeAlert is a utility that reads data from a Unix pipe and displays it in a regular Aqua window. This could be useful to scripters who need to see the output of a 'do shell script' command. Other examples of use include being notified if a shell command or Cron job failed and being informed when a lengthy shell command has finished. Changes in this version: Fixed insufficient escaping of spaces when PipeAlert displays its own path.
9:54:58 AM
Apple Demonstrates The Script Editor Service
"Script Editor version 2.0 provides a special service to other applications, which support the Services architecture, by allowing them to treat text selected in their open documents as AppleScript scripts."
9:13:20 AM
Hacker Translator 1.0
Hacker Translator is an AppleScript Studio application that will translate any text you input into 'H4X0R' text. The idea of 'H4X0R' text is to replace as many letters with numbers/symbols as possible. For instance, it converted 'AppleScript Info' to "4pp135cr¡p? ¡|\|ph0".
9:06:36 AM
Osax: UnicodeUtils 1.0b1
This Mac OS X native OSAX provides AppleScript commands for counting Unicode characters, normalizing Unicode strings, and comparing Unicode text. [MacScripter.net]
8:58:54 AM
The following announcement recently appeared on various AppleScript related mailing lists.
There is a new mailing list for Christian xTalk programmers (HyperCard, SuperCard, MetaCard, Revolution, AppleScript, Director, etc.) at:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/cxtalk/
Feel free to join us and discuss faith and scripting with others who share both of these passions!
7:12:01 PM
MacMP3Gain 1.0
MacMP3Gain is an AppleScript Studio application which wraps up the command line version of mp3gain in a quaint GUI. It is free and open source.
2:16:28 PM
Pothter 1.0b2
Pothter is an OS X AppleScript script that presents a user friendly dialog for posting the contents of a folder to Usenet via the Thoth newsreader client. Warnings are given if conventions used in the alt.binaries.mac hierarchy are not followed and it offers users the option to modify the text of the subject line. Changes in this version: Added the ability to modify file names as well as the text of the subject line. [d/l]
2:04:37 PM
Make Mine MPEG-4 v4.0.1
This AppleScript Studio application automates the process of ripping and then encoding iTunes CD tracks as MPEG-4 audio files using QuickTime 6.x Pro. Changes in this version: .mov files now include track number annotation. "Save as .mov" now handles long filenames. Removed "encoder branding" in Comments field.
1:36:38 PM
Mac OS X Hints: Attach AppleScripts to Mail.app rules
russh: "A member of the Mail.app development team passed along this script that uses the 'perform_mail_action' handler to access messages that match the given rule or rule object. In other words, it kicks up a dialog box that automagically tells you a rule was matched and what the message was that matched."
11:08:24 AM
Mac OS X Hints: Assign AppleScripts to Logitech mice buttons
jeb1138: "I have a Logitech MX700 mosue and was digging around through the Logitech Daemon package that gets installed when you install the Logitech Control Center and found a hidden property that you can enable to let you execute AppleScripts using your mouse buttons" ...
11:03:29 AM
iCan 1.0 released
iCan is a scriptable, customizable trashcan for OS X desktops for those who still miss the one in OS 9. It indicates the current status of the Trash (full or empty) and several themes are included. Users can also create their own themes (instructions included) and iCan comes with several sample AppleScript scripts.
10:19:12 AM
PipeAlert 0.6.1
PipeAlert is a utility that reads data from a Unix pipe and displays it in a regular Aqua window. This could be useful to scripters who need to see the output of a 'do shell script' command. Other examples of use include being notified if a shell command or Cron job failed and being informed when a lengthy shell command has finished. Changes in this version: Fixed insufficient escaping of spaces when PipeAlert displays its own path.
9:54:58 AM
Apple Demonstrates The Script Editor Service
"Script Editor version 2.0 provides a special service to other applications, which support the Services architecture, by allowing them to treat text selected in their open documents as AppleScript scripts."
9:13:20 AM
Hacker Translator 1.0
Hacker Translator is an AppleScript Studio application that will translate any text you input into 'H4X0R' text. The idea of 'H4X0R' text is to replace as many letters with numbers/symbols as possible. For instance, it converted 'AppleScript Info' to "4pp135cr¡p? ¡|\|ph0".
9:06:36 AM
Osax: UnicodeUtils 1.0b1
This Mac OS X native OSAX provides AppleScript commands for counting Unicode characters, normalizing Unicode strings, and comparing Unicode text. [MacScripter.net]
8:58:54 AM
Wednesday, January 15, 2003
ScriptBuilders News
New: OsaxManager 0.2
5:45:43 PM
NetNewsWire Pro 1.0b10
This release fixes a crashing bug introduced in the previous beta. NetNewsWire Pro is a scriptable RSS news reader that can also be used as an editor for many popular weblog systems. [Mac Net Journal]
12:36:21 PM
Mac OS X Hints: An AppleScript to create timed screen captures
ClarkGoble: "To set up a script that takes a screenshot of your desktop every hour, use the following Applescript." ...
12:29:17 PM
Ittec 1.6.1
Ittec is a contextual menu plugin that lists the contents of folders and Finder windows (and the contents of those folders and Finder windows and so on). It features control-free contextual menus in the Finder, dragging items from menus to other applications, hierarchical path menus, and much more. It also includes a scripting addition which allows scripts to get and set window properties (uses XML). [version history]
12:20:36 PM
Take back the black?
If you don't care for the new look of this site, as one visitor has already expressed, there's a mirror site available that you might be more comfortable with. It isn't completely finished (tweaks will occur unannounced), but the content is all there.
Mirror Site: http://donotsell.net/ai/
XML: http://donotsell.net/ai/rss.xml
10:36:40 AM
New: OsaxManager 0.2
5:45:43 PM
NetNewsWire Pro 1.0b10
This release fixes a crashing bug introduced in the previous beta. NetNewsWire Pro is a scriptable RSS news reader that can also be used as an editor for many popular weblog systems. [Mac Net Journal]
12:36:21 PM
Mac OS X Hints: An AppleScript to create timed screen captures
ClarkGoble: "To set up a script that takes a screenshot of your desktop every hour, use the following Applescript." ...
12:29:17 PM
Ittec 1.6.1
Ittec is a contextual menu plugin that lists the contents of folders and Finder windows (and the contents of those folders and Finder windows and so on). It features control-free contextual menus in the Finder, dragging items from menus to other applications, hierarchical path menus, and much more. It also includes a scripting addition which allows scripts to get and set window properties (uses XML). [version history]
12:20:36 PM
Take back the black?
If you don't care for the new look of this site, as one visitor has already expressed, there's a mirror site available that you might be more comfortable with. It isn't completely finished (tweaks will occur unannounced), but the content is all there.
Mirror Site: http://donotsell.net/ai/
XML: http://donotsell.net/ai/rss.xml
10:36:40 AM
Tuesday, January 14, 2003
Developer Tip: Self-cleaning disk images
"Here's how to create 'self-cleaning' disk images in five semi-easy steps:" This refers to the installers that Apple has recently started using. Once the app is deposited in the same directory as the installer, the installer disappears. I'm sure they're responsible for numerous "What the ... ?" moments.
11:43:40 PM
AppleScript Pro Sessions: Monterey, California: June 2-6, 2003
Scripting Matters has announced its fourth AppleScript Pro Sessions, offering an introduction to AppleScript, as well as coverage of scripting QuarkXPress, InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator, Acrobat, FileMaker, BBEdit, and OS X, including working with AppleScript Studio. "People have been asking about new technologies in AppleScript," said Ray Robertson of Scripting Matters. "My answer is that we've been training people to use AppleScript with OS X for almost three years now, way longer than anyone else, and we did a session on scripting Photoshop within days of its release. So yes, of course we will be looking at Script Editor 2 and GUI scripting." The cost of the sessions is $500 per day, with early-bird and multi-day discounts available, including $1500 for all five days for those registering before May 1. Visit Scripting Matters for more details and registration information. [MacScripter.net]
7:10:05 PM
Back up user prefs 2.0
In addition to making a copy of a user's Preferences folder, this script also makes backups of preference folders for Chimera and OmniWeb (they're stored elsewhere). Changes in this version: Added the ability to restore preferences that have previously been saved using the application.
4:10:10 PM
Throwin' the switch...
It's time for a change. In an attempt to comply with web standards, and to give the site a fresh look, I'm going to make some changes. Get ready! It will be quite a shock when you first see the new look - white text on a black background. There may be issues to work out as the change proceeds so I would appreciate your patience as I address them. I hope you like the new look. -- Rob
10:56:16 AM
Upcoming Book: AppleScript 1-2-3 by Sal Soghoian
"In AppleScript 1-2-3 Apple's AppleScript product manager, Sal Soghoian, teaches beginners how to address nearly any automation task on the Macintosh. Broken down into three parts, the book starts by explaining AppleScript fundamentals through a series of hands-on how-tos designed to teach you how to write functional scripts. The second section expands on the knowledge gained in the first section with an in-depth examination of useful AppleScript tools and techniques, and the third section uses sample scripts to demonstrate how to automate Apple and third-party applications. If you're looking to work more productively by automating your workflow, you'll want this primer written by the leading expert in the field-no one knows more about AppleScript than Sal."
7:31:58 AM
NetNewsWire Pro 1.0b8
This release focuses on the news reader. Changes include displaying the time for the next refresh, remembering column sizes, and fixing an OPML subscriptions importing bug. (See the change notes for more info.) [ranchero.com]
6:53:25 AM
"Here's how to create 'self-cleaning' disk images in five semi-easy steps:" This refers to the installers that Apple has recently started using. Once the app is deposited in the same directory as the installer, the installer disappears. I'm sure they're responsible for numerous "What the ... ?" moments.
11:43:40 PM
AppleScript Pro Sessions: Monterey, California: June 2-6, 2003
Scripting Matters has announced its fourth AppleScript Pro Sessions, offering an introduction to AppleScript, as well as coverage of scripting QuarkXPress, InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator, Acrobat, FileMaker, BBEdit, and OS X, including working with AppleScript Studio. "People have been asking about new technologies in AppleScript," said Ray Robertson of Scripting Matters. "My answer is that we've been training people to use AppleScript with OS X for almost three years now, way longer than anyone else, and we did a session on scripting Photoshop within days of its release. So yes, of course we will be looking at Script Editor 2 and GUI scripting." The cost of the sessions is $500 per day, with early-bird and multi-day discounts available, including $1500 for all five days for those registering before May 1. Visit Scripting Matters for more details and registration information. [MacScripter.net]
7:10:05 PM
Back up user prefs 2.0
In addition to making a copy of a user's Preferences folder, this script also makes backups of preference folders for Chimera and OmniWeb (they're stored elsewhere). Changes in this version: Added the ability to restore preferences that have previously been saved using the application.
4:10:10 PM
Throwin' the switch...
It's time for a change. In an attempt to comply with web standards, and to give the site a fresh look, I'm going to make some changes. Get ready! It will be quite a shock when you first see the new look - white text on a black background. There may be issues to work out as the change proceeds so I would appreciate your patience as I address them. I hope you like the new look. -- Rob
10:56:16 AM
Upcoming Book: AppleScript 1-2-3 by Sal Soghoian
"In AppleScript 1-2-3 Apple's AppleScript product manager, Sal Soghoian, teaches beginners how to address nearly any automation task on the Macintosh. Broken down into three parts, the book starts by explaining AppleScript fundamentals through a series of hands-on how-tos designed to teach you how to write functional scripts. The second section expands on the knowledge gained in the first section with an in-depth examination of useful AppleScript tools and techniques, and the third section uses sample scripts to demonstrate how to automate Apple and third-party applications. If you're looking to work more productively by automating your workflow, you'll want this primer written by the leading expert in the field-no one knows more about AppleScript than Sal."
7:31:58 AM
NetNewsWire Pro 1.0b8
This release focuses on the news reader. Changes include displaying the time for the next refresh, remembering column sizes, and fixing an OPML subscriptions importing bug. (See the change notes for more info.) [ranchero.com]
6:53:25 AM
Monday, January 13, 2003
Five Scripts for Safari Beta
"Here are five assorted scripts for use with Safari Beta. Each contains different parts and elements that might be useful in creating other scripts that would be useful, as well. Safari URLs and web page information are downloaded and sent to Entourage, iChat and BBEdit for various purposes."
5:28:30 PM
ScriptBuilders News
Updates: MLS DataBase Publisher 2.0v2, QXP Shortcut Changer 1.0.2, Ibis 1.8.1
1:00:18 PM
Photo Diet 1.0.3
Photo Diet, for iPhoto 1.x, is an OS X AppleScript droplet for slimming down iPhoto libraries. It scans the library for unnecessary duplicate photos and moves them to the Trash and it includes several options. Changes in this version: Changed Debug mode to Log mode so it doesn't sound as sinister to non-programmers. Applescript version checking ensures that minimum requirements are met. Scanning empty folders no longer results in an error. Stray files located anywhere in the library are moved to the trash if "Remove orphans" is turned on.
12:20:05 PM
SoftBundler 2.0
SoftBundler allows users to create lists (FileStacks) of documents, applications and/or AppleScript scripts which can be opened all at once by double clicking the file which is generated. In essence, it creates a multi-target launcher, via drag and drop, which users are able to edit later if the need arises.
11:54:53 AM
24U Email OSAX 2.1.1
24U Email OSAX allows you to send e-mail messages directly from your scripts (e.g. CGI, Folder Action, database) quickly and easily without requiring an additional application. Changes in this version: Better support authentication. RSET command is no longer sent.
11:02:24 AM
Google Search: Empty Trash
According to the referrer log for this site, there have been a few Google searches for a script to empty the trash. This works for me.
tell application "Finder" to empty trash
9:21:05 AM
MacInTouch: Script to save text from web pages in Safari
MacInTouch reader Kim Kohen writes: "One thing I miss in Safari is drag and drop of text to the desktop." Kim goes on to provide a solution using Youpi Key and AppleScript. The script will generate a text file on the desktop and it will append each piece of selected text to the file.
8:34:24 AM
MacDevCenter - Apple on Top of Its Game: the Macworld SF 2003 Report
Daniel Steinberg comments on Keynote, Apple's new presentation software. "The feature I missed the most was the ability to link to an application or AppleScript."
7:59:18 AM
Safari Enhancer 1.1
Safari Enhancer uses AppleScript to allow users to enable several hidden features of the Safari web browser beta. Among the things that can be enabled are a debugging menu that allows you to do such things as enable keyboard and mouse shortcuts, changing which browser Safari identifies itself as, and changing how Safari handles Security. It also lets you specifiy a minimum font size, as well as allowing you to turn off underlines on links and handling direct bookmark importing from Netscape, Internet Explorer, Chimera, Mozilla, OmniWeb, and iCab. Changes in this version: Now compatible with FullScreenSafari.ape. Built in documentation.
6:33:32 AM
TarGz 0.06b
TarGz is a AppleScript droplet used to compress or expand (in .tar.gz format) with incremental naming. TarGz is packaged with "hfstar 1.13.19-1", a version of gnutar for Mac OS X that supports archiving HFS+ specific information such as resource forks, type and creator codes as well as other finder flags. Requires OS X 10.2 and source code is included (the script is editable).
6:17:37 AM
New OS X osax released: WCHandy 1.0
This OS X osax allows scripts to retrieve the settings from the Web tab of the Internet preference pane. In addition to default download folder, default web browser and user home page, it includes commands for the path to the default web browser, spin pizza, and an About window for the osax. [osaxen.com]
4:09:51 AM
"Here are five assorted scripts for use with Safari Beta. Each contains different parts and elements that might be useful in creating other scripts that would be useful, as well. Safari URLs and web page information are downloaded and sent to Entourage, iChat and BBEdit for various purposes."
5:28:30 PM
ScriptBuilders News
Updates: MLS DataBase Publisher 2.0v2, QXP Shortcut Changer 1.0.2, Ibis 1.8.1
1:00:18 PM
Photo Diet 1.0.3
Photo Diet, for iPhoto 1.x, is an OS X AppleScript droplet for slimming down iPhoto libraries. It scans the library for unnecessary duplicate photos and moves them to the Trash and it includes several options. Changes in this version: Changed Debug mode to Log mode so it doesn't sound as sinister to non-programmers. Applescript version checking ensures that minimum requirements are met. Scanning empty folders no longer results in an error. Stray files located anywhere in the library are moved to the trash if "Remove orphans" is turned on.
12:20:05 PM
SoftBundler 2.0
SoftBundler allows users to create lists (FileStacks) of documents, applications and/or AppleScript scripts which can be opened all at once by double clicking the file which is generated. In essence, it creates a multi-target launcher, via drag and drop, which users are able to edit later if the need arises.
11:54:53 AM
24U Email OSAX 2.1.1
24U Email OSAX allows you to send e-mail messages directly from your scripts (e.g. CGI, Folder Action, database) quickly and easily without requiring an additional application. Changes in this version: Better support authentication. RSET command is no longer sent.
11:02:24 AM
Google Search: Empty Trash
According to the referrer log for this site, there have been a few Google searches for a script to empty the trash. This works for me.
tell application "Finder" to empty trash
9:21:05 AM
MacInTouch: Script to save text from web pages in Safari
MacInTouch reader Kim Kohen writes: "One thing I miss in Safari is drag and drop of text to the desktop." Kim goes on to provide a solution using Youpi Key and AppleScript. The script will generate a text file on the desktop and it will append each piece of selected text to the file.
8:34:24 AM
MacDevCenter - Apple on Top of Its Game: the Macworld SF 2003 Report
Daniel Steinberg comments on Keynote, Apple's new presentation software. "The feature I missed the most was the ability to link to an application or AppleScript."
7:59:18 AM
Safari Enhancer 1.1
Safari Enhancer uses AppleScript to allow users to enable several hidden features of the Safari web browser beta. Among the things that can be enabled are a debugging menu that allows you to do such things as enable keyboard and mouse shortcuts, changing which browser Safari identifies itself as, and changing how Safari handles Security. It also lets you specifiy a minimum font size, as well as allowing you to turn off underlines on links and handling direct bookmark importing from Netscape, Internet Explorer, Chimera, Mozilla, OmniWeb, and iCab. Changes in this version: Now compatible with FullScreenSafari.ape. Built in documentation.
6:33:32 AM
TarGz 0.06b
TarGz is a AppleScript droplet used to compress or expand (in .tar.gz format) with incremental naming. TarGz is packaged with "hfstar 1.13.19-1", a version of gnutar for Mac OS X that supports archiving HFS+ specific information such as resource forks, type and creator codes as well as other finder flags. Requires OS X 10.2 and source code is included (the script is editable).
6:17:37 AM
New OS X osax released: WCHandy 1.0
This OS X osax allows scripts to retrieve the settings from the Web tab of the Internet preference pane. In addition to default download folder, default web browser and user home page, it includes commands for the path to the default web browser, spin pizza, and an About window for the osax. [osaxen.com]
4:09:51 AM
Sunday, January 12, 2003
ScriptBuilders News
Updates: Trash It! 2.5.1
4:09:01 PM
Entourage Scripts [links lead to MacUpdate entries]
Insert Safari URLs 1.0.1: A script that will take URLs selected from open windows in Apple's "Safari" web browser and insert them into a message composition window in Microsoft Entourage. Multiple URLs can be selected.
Name Attachment 1.0: Inserts a list of the names of attached files in the body of an outgoing message in Microsoft Entourage.
Insert Notes 1.3: Allows for easy use of standardized 'Boiler Plate' text to be inserted into mail or news messages in Entourage.
12:36:30 PM
TunesQuiz 1.0
This OS X application, with the help of AppleScript, tests your knowledge of your iTunes song collection. [screenshot]
10:24:28 AM
Updates: Trash It! 2.5.1
4:09:01 PM
Entourage Scripts [links lead to MacUpdate entries]
Insert Safari URLs 1.0.1: A script that will take URLs selected from open windows in Apple's "Safari" web browser and insert them into a message composition window in Microsoft Entourage. Multiple URLs can be selected.
Name Attachment 1.0: Inserts a list of the names of attached files in the body of an outgoing message in Microsoft Entourage.
Insert Notes 1.3: Allows for easy use of standardized 'Boiler Plate' text to be inserted into mail or news messages in Entourage.
12:36:30 PM
TunesQuiz 1.0
This OS X application, with the help of AppleScript, tests your knowledge of your iTunes song collection. [screenshot]
10:24:28 AM
Saturday, January 11, 2003
Force Empty Trash 1.0
This AppleScript script forces the trash to empty when it contains stubborn items. Source code is included on the developer's site.
6:56:21 PM
ScriptBuilders News
New: Apple's Safari Scripts, Updates: QXP Shortcut Changer 1.0.1, BlogScript 1.6.1
7:12:10 AM
This AppleScript script forces the trash to empty when it contains stubborn items. Source code is included on the developer's site.
6:56:21 PM
ScriptBuilders News
New: Apple's Safari Scripts, Updates: QXP Shortcut Changer 1.0.1, BlogScript 1.6.1
7:12:10 AM
Friday, January 10, 2003
Safari update available
Safari Update 1.0 Beta (v51) 1-10-03 is a 3 MB upgrade to the beta Web browser that Apple says is recommended for all Safari users. Get it while it's hot... [Mac Net Journal]
9:21:47 PM
Gestures 1.0
Gestures allows users to associate actions with "Gestures". Gestures are either hot keys (key combinations), mouse movements or both. Actions are useful shortcuts for common operations such as opening a document, performing an AppleScript, iTunes commands or key combination. Requires Mac OS X 10.2 (10.2.3 recommended).
6:17:49 PM
ChimeraKnight 1.9.3
ChimeraKnight automatically updates Chimera to the latest nightly version. New in this version: Added gopher image installation to html resources. Changed method to test for BSD subsystem. Fixed bug that would repeatedly ask for Navigator path in OS X 10.1.5. Fixed bug when accessing log tab manually. Made with AppleScript Studio, it requires OS X 10.1.5 or later, AppleScript 1.8.3 or later, and the BSD subsystem. [d/l]
Also available from the same developer is ChimerIcon. ChimerIcon allows you to change Chimera Navigator's user interface by installing icons and splash screens as well as other application resources such as nib files and preference panes. ChimerIcon comes bundled with a small set of icon themes. [d/l]
2:10:25 PM
ScriptBuilders News
Updates: Trash It! 2.5
11:52:19 AM
iWannaSleep 1.0a
iWannaSleep is a free timer application which allows users to set a countdown time to stop iTunes, shut down or put the computer to sleep, or trigger a AppleScript script.
10:34:59 AM
Safari Update 1.0 Beta (v51) 1-10-03 is a 3 MB upgrade to the beta Web browser that Apple says is recommended for all Safari users. Get it while it's hot... [Mac Net Journal]
9:21:47 PM
Gestures 1.0
Gestures allows users to associate actions with "Gestures". Gestures are either hot keys (key combinations), mouse movements or both. Actions are useful shortcuts for common operations such as opening a document, performing an AppleScript, iTunes commands or key combination. Requires Mac OS X 10.2 (10.2.3 recommended).
6:17:49 PM
ChimeraKnight 1.9.3
ChimeraKnight automatically updates Chimera to the latest nightly version. New in this version: Added gopher image installation to html resources. Changed method to test for BSD subsystem. Fixed bug that would repeatedly ask for Navigator path in OS X 10.1.5. Fixed bug when accessing log tab manually. Made with AppleScript Studio, it requires OS X 10.1.5 or later, AppleScript 1.8.3 or later, and the BSD subsystem. [d/l]
Also available from the same developer is ChimerIcon. ChimerIcon allows you to change Chimera Navigator's user interface by installing icons and splash screens as well as other application resources such as nib files and preference panes. ChimerIcon comes bundled with a small set of icon themes. [d/l]
2:10:25 PM
ScriptBuilders News
Updates: Trash It! 2.5
11:52:19 AM
iWannaSleep 1.0a
iWannaSleep is a free timer application which allows users to set a countdown time to stop iTunes, shut down or put the computer to sleep, or trigger a AppleScript script.
10:34:59 AM
Thursday, January 9, 2003
ScriptBuilders News
New: QXP Shortcut Changer 1.0
8:00:38 PM
Missing Link 1.9b
Missing Link enables a web browser to be used as a local file launcher. Files, folders, applications, script applications, URL's and a variety of other file types can be opened, launched or run from links on an HTML page - just as if they had been double-clicked in the Finder. I've beta tested earlier versions of ML and I can see where it could be used for many different tasks.
1:02:12 PM
iCal... Make It Happen 1.02
iCalMIH uses iCal to schedule various events/actions. Changes in this version: URLs are now opened with the default browser rather than forcing the use of IE. Fixed a bug that prevented the free version from running. Can now play an iTunes playlist. Can now open a URL. Can import an Outlook-exported calendar. Can now open any external app, script or document. This allows anyone to extend the power of iCalMIH with their own apps.
12:16:28 PM
GraphicConverter 4.5.2
GraphicConverter converts pictures to different formats and also contains many useful features for picture manipulation. Among the many changes: TIF options are now accessible by AppleScript. Undo now works from AppleScript. AppleScript command 'trim' now has a tolerance parameter.
12:02:47 PM
ATPM Roll Your Own: How to Handle Anything
"This month we're going to take a close look at what handlers are and how you can use them to help you write programs more efficiently."
11:44:14 AM
Mail2iCal 1.1.3 and Mail2iCalTodo 1.0
Mail2iCal exports new email messages from all accounts in Mail to calendars in iCal. They can then be exported to an iPod using iSync. New in this version: Fixed a bug in 1.1.2, where deleting the default calendar would result in an error. Also added a simple means to reset the default calendar.
Mail2iCalTodo 1.0 is also now available from the same developer. This script exports the Reply-To and subject of selected emails from Mail to iCal todo entries in a user defined calendar. The due date is currently hardcoded to 72 hours from receiving the message and X-Priority headers are converted (to some extent).
11:25:17 AM
Update Fixer 1.0
This OS X script is reported to fix a Software Update bug where new software isn't logged.
11:16:07 AM
NetRestore 1.0
"NetRestore is a software deployment tool developed in AppleScript Studio. You can use NetRestore to restore a master disk image to a computer's hard disk while that disk image is hosted locally, on a network via AFP, or on the internet via HTTP. NetRestore can also be used in conjunction with NetBoot to fully automate the deployment of a lab full of machines."
11:08:27 AM
Safari Enhancer 1.0
Safari Enhancer is an AppleScript Studio application for enabling several hidden features of Apple's Safari web browser. It gives users access to such things as security certificates, font sizes, how Safari identifies itself, and bookmark imports.
Editor's Note: Before you use Safari Enhancer, you might want to visit this site for development and general info about Safari. Dave Hyatt, a member of the Safari development team, mentions one reason that a user might not want to change Safari's UA string (the way Safari identifies itself to web sites). He also mentions some of the changes that will likely appear in upcoming releases. Many of the changes are based on user feedback.
7:46:18 AM
PreFab UI Browser vs. Apple's UI Element Inspector
Prefab Software compares their unreleased UI Browser with Apple's UI Element Inspector. In a nutshell, Prefab's UI Browser will offer many unique features. [via MacScripter.net]
7:20:18 AM
New: QXP Shortcut Changer 1.0
8:00:38 PM
Missing Link 1.9b
Missing Link enables a web browser to be used as a local file launcher. Files, folders, applications, script applications, URL's and a variety of other file types can be opened, launched or run from links on an HTML page - just as if they had been double-clicked in the Finder. I've beta tested earlier versions of ML and I can see where it could be used for many different tasks.
1:02:12 PM
iCal... Make It Happen 1.02
iCalMIH uses iCal to schedule various events/actions. Changes in this version: URLs are now opened with the default browser rather than forcing the use of IE. Fixed a bug that prevented the free version from running. Can now play an iTunes playlist. Can now open a URL. Can import an Outlook-exported calendar. Can now open any external app, script or document. This allows anyone to extend the power of iCalMIH with their own apps.
12:16:28 PM
GraphicConverter 4.5.2
GraphicConverter converts pictures to different formats and also contains many useful features for picture manipulation. Among the many changes: TIF options are now accessible by AppleScript. Undo now works from AppleScript. AppleScript command 'trim' now has a tolerance parameter.
12:02:47 PM
ATPM Roll Your Own: How to Handle Anything
"This month we're going to take a close look at what handlers are and how you can use them to help you write programs more efficiently."
11:44:14 AM
Mail2iCal 1.1.3 and Mail2iCalTodo 1.0
Mail2iCal exports new email messages from all accounts in Mail to calendars in iCal. They can then be exported to an iPod using iSync. New in this version: Fixed a bug in 1.1.2, where deleting the default calendar would result in an error. Also added a simple means to reset the default calendar.
Mail2iCalTodo 1.0 is also now available from the same developer. This script exports the Reply-To and subject of selected emails from Mail to iCal todo entries in a user defined calendar. The due date is currently hardcoded to 72 hours from receiving the message and X-Priority headers are converted (to some extent).
11:25:17 AM
Update Fixer 1.0
This OS X script is reported to fix a Software Update bug where new software isn't logged.
11:16:07 AM
NetRestore 1.0
"NetRestore is a software deployment tool developed in AppleScript Studio. You can use NetRestore to restore a master disk image to a computer's hard disk while that disk image is hosted locally, on a network via AFP, or on the internet via HTTP. NetRestore can also be used in conjunction with NetBoot to fully automate the deployment of a lab full of machines."
11:08:27 AM
Safari Enhancer 1.0
Safari Enhancer is an AppleScript Studio application for enabling several hidden features of Apple's Safari web browser. It gives users access to such things as security certificates, font sizes, how Safari identifies itself, and bookmark imports.
Editor's Note: Before you use Safari Enhancer, you might want to visit this site for development and general info about Safari. Dave Hyatt, a member of the Safari development team, mentions one reason that a user might not want to change Safari's UA string (the way Safari identifies itself to web sites). He also mentions some of the changes that will likely appear in upcoming releases. Many of the changes are based on user feedback.
7:46:18 AM
PreFab UI Browser vs. Apple's UI Element Inspector
Prefab Software compares their unreleased UI Browser with Apple's UI Element Inspector. In a nutshell, Prefab's UI Browser will offer many unique features. [via MacScripter.net]
7:20:18 AM
Wednesday, January 8, 2003
Kanzu news
Kanzu Utilities has released iCan 1.0b10. iCan is a scriptable, customizable trashcan for OS X desktops for those who still miss the one in OS 9. Changes in this version: The sounds now work again (broke in 10.b9). Tamed the "Demo" badge on the trash (now appears after 10 minutes use). Moved "Empty Trash" and "Open Trash" menu items to the top of the contextual menu. Cosmetic changes in the Customize window.
Kanzu also announces that Extra Suites 1.0 will be available at the end of January. Extra Suites, known as X-Commands during the beta stage, provides more than 70 additional commands to scripters. X-Commands v 0.96 is available for download.
5:27:53 PM
John Gruber reviews Safari
On Safari's AppleScript support: "I haven't had a chance to do more than look at Safari's scripting dictionary, but it's a disappointment - no apparent support for the standard browser Apple event suite. I'll give Apple a pass for now because it's still in beta, but there's absolutely zero reason not to expect that Apple's own browser will soon offer the best AppleScript support on the platform."
4:25:20 PM
XSLT Tools 1.0
This scripting addition allows AppleScript to apply XSLT transformations to XML data, use XPath expressions to extract information information from XML data and extend the XSLT processor using AppleScript functions. By Mark Alldritt. Released January 8, 2003. [Scripting Additions @ macscripter.net]
4:11:32 PM
Dave Hyatt, a member of the Safari...
Dave Winer: "Dave Hyatt, a member of the Safari team at Apple (that's their new Web browser) has a weblog, and there he responds to the issues raised by Mark Pilgrim. This is fantastic. This is how the Web is supposed to work. Bravo." [Scripting News]
9:59:39 AM
Kanzu Utilities has released iCan 1.0b10. iCan is a scriptable, customizable trashcan for OS X desktops for those who still miss the one in OS 9. Changes in this version: The sounds now work again (broke in 10.b9). Tamed the "Demo" badge on the trash (now appears after 10 minutes use). Moved "Empty Trash" and "Open Trash" menu items to the top of the contextual menu. Cosmetic changes in the Customize window.
Kanzu also announces that Extra Suites 1.0 will be available at the end of January. Extra Suites, known as X-Commands during the beta stage, provides more than 70 additional commands to scripters. X-Commands v 0.96 is available for download.
5:27:53 PM
John Gruber reviews Safari
On Safari's AppleScript support: "I haven't had a chance to do more than look at Safari's scripting dictionary, but it's a disappointment - no apparent support for the standard browser Apple event suite. I'll give Apple a pass for now because it's still in beta, but there's absolutely zero reason not to expect that Apple's own browser will soon offer the best AppleScript support on the platform."
4:25:20 PM
XSLT Tools 1.0
This scripting addition allows AppleScript to apply XSLT transformations to XML data, use XPath expressions to extract information information from XML data and extend the XSLT processor using AppleScript functions. By Mark Alldritt. Released January 8, 2003. [Scripting Additions @ macscripter.net]
4:11:32 PM
Dave Hyatt, a member of the Safari...
Dave Winer: "Dave Hyatt, a member of the Safari team at Apple (that's their new Web browser) has a weblog, and there he responds to the issues raised by Mark Pilgrim. This is fantastic. This is how the Web is supposed to work. Bravo." [Scripting News]
9:59:39 AM
Tuesday, January 7, 2003
Scheduler 3.3.1
Scheduler is an all-around scheduling utility for appointments, launching applications, documents and AppleScripts. It is also able to trigger the download of web pages and files in many browsers. New in this version: Improved stability - fixed bug that could crash Scheduler on some system configurations when user deleted a scheduled task. Fixed a bug preventing the correct rendering of the "Launching uncompiled or compiled scripts with and without arguments" help page (HTML format) on Mac OS X 10.2.
8:26:26 PM
Kung-Log: Converting from AppleScript to Cocoa
From the developer of Kung-Log, Kung-Tunes and Kung-Tar: "I started converting my AppleScript Studio Kung-Log app to Cocoa so I can add quite a lot more features, such as the desired toolbar" ... "If you want to learn Cocoa, I suggest *not* buying a book, but check out the online tutorials and sample code that comes with Apple's Developer Tools."
8:02:33 PM
MacDevCenter: Scripting Rectangular Selections in BBEdit 7
John Gruber: "Once you've seen rectangular text selection in action, it seems both obvious and simple, so you might wonder why it took so long for BBEdit to support it. One reason is that it's not nearly as simple as it looks, especially when you look under the hood using AppleScript."
7:44:08 PM
Late Night Software Offer: Free book with purchase of Script Debugger 3.0 CD
Late Night Software, developer of Script Debugger, is offering a free copy of Ethan Wilde's 'AppleScript for Applications: Visual QuickStart Guide' with the purchase of Script Debugger 3.0 on CD-ROM. Purchasers of Script Debugger 3.0 via electronic delivery have the option of taking advantage of this offer by paying US$12 for shipping and handling. The offer expires January 31, 2003, while quantities last.
7:37:38 PM
Mail2iCal 1.1
Mail2iCal exports selected email messages from all accounts in Mail to calendars in iCal. They can then be exported to an iPod using iSync. New in this version: Now exports selected messages.
7:11:45 PM
Make Mine MPEG-4 v4.0
Make Mine MPEG-4 automates the process of importing iTunes CD tracks and encoding them as MPEG-4 files using QuickTime 6 Pro. Among the changes in this version is a new AppleScript Studio interface.
4:14:09 PM
iTunesRemote 0.3
This script will run iTunes from a remote computer with either a Rendezvous name or an IP address of the other computer. Changes in this version: Uses iTunes' buttons. Smaller. Alerts that it is loading.
4:09:20 PM
Apple: New scripts and tools
Apple unveils its own UI Element Inspector application for retrieving UI element data when using UI Scripting.
3:44:57 PM
Apple: Script collection for newly scriptable iPhoto 2
"The iPhoto scripts collection, detailed below, provides examples of how to automate your use of this elegant application." The collection includes scripts for Photoshop, iDVD, UI Scripting and much more!
3:39:24 PM
Safari scripts available now
As I was checking the AppleScript dictionary for Safari, Kirk Klingbiel, of MacScripter.net fame, kindly sent an email announcing his discovery of several Safari scripts from Apple. Already! They include Import Image Into iPhoto, Reuters Top News Compilation Email (an example of page scrubbing), Display Thumb-Linked Images, Create Phone List, Full Screen, and Side-By-Side. On a related note, Safari, while not full featured, appears to be a decent browser considering its beta status. I haven't had time to test every aspect of it but it's handled everything that I've thrown at it so far. I'll leave it up to others to review it in detail.
3:14:00 PM
Apple can't (con)figure out the bandwidth requirements for Macworld keynote
As is often the case, Apple has not appropriated enough bandwidth for the live keynote feed from Macworld. QuickTime Player times out while "configuring". Bummer.
Update: I finally connected and got to see the new Powerbooks. Excellent! Now it's time to find out if there are any AppleScript goodies hidden in the software which was announced, including the new browser named Safari.
12:49:01 PM
iDo Script Scheduler 1.5
iDo Script Scheduler lets you automatically run AppleScripts at any time you choose. It offers t
Scheduler is an all-around scheduling utility for appointments, launching applications, documents and AppleScripts. It is also able to trigger the download of web pages and files in many browsers. New in this version: Improved stability - fixed bug that could crash Scheduler on some system configurations when user deleted a scheduled task. Fixed a bug preventing the correct rendering of the "Launching uncompiled or compiled scripts with and without arguments" help page (HTML format) on Mac OS X 10.2.
8:26:26 PM
Kung-Log: Converting from AppleScript to Cocoa
From the developer of Kung-Log, Kung-Tunes and Kung-Tar: "I started converting my AppleScript Studio Kung-Log app to Cocoa so I can add quite a lot more features, such as the desired toolbar" ... "If you want to learn Cocoa, I suggest *not* buying a book, but check out the online tutorials and sample code that comes with Apple's Developer Tools."
8:02:33 PM
MacDevCenter: Scripting Rectangular Selections in BBEdit 7
John Gruber: "Once you've seen rectangular text selection in action, it seems both obvious and simple, so you might wonder why it took so long for BBEdit to support it. One reason is that it's not nearly as simple as it looks, especially when you look under the hood using AppleScript."
7:44:08 PM
Late Night Software Offer: Free book with purchase of Script Debugger 3.0 CD
Late Night Software, developer of Script Debugger, is offering a free copy of Ethan Wilde's 'AppleScript for Applications: Visual QuickStart Guide' with the purchase of Script Debugger 3.0 on CD-ROM. Purchasers of Script Debugger 3.0 via electronic delivery have the option of taking advantage of this offer by paying US$12 for shipping and handling. The offer expires January 31, 2003, while quantities last.
7:37:38 PM
Mail2iCal 1.1
Mail2iCal exports selected email messages from all accounts in Mail to calendars in iCal. They can then be exported to an iPod using iSync. New in this version: Now exports selected messages.
7:11:45 PM
Make Mine MPEG-4 v4.0
Make Mine MPEG-4 automates the process of importing iTunes CD tracks and encoding them as MPEG-4 files using QuickTime 6 Pro. Among the changes in this version is a new AppleScript Studio interface.
4:14:09 PM
iTunesRemote 0.3
This script will run iTunes from a remote computer with either a Rendezvous name or an IP address of the other computer. Changes in this version: Uses iTunes' buttons. Smaller. Alerts that it is loading.
4:09:20 PM
Apple: New scripts and tools
Apple unveils its own UI Element Inspector application for retrieving UI element data when using UI Scripting.
3:44:57 PM
Apple: Script collection for newly scriptable iPhoto 2
"The iPhoto scripts collection, detailed below, provides examples of how to automate your use of this elegant application." The collection includes scripts for Photoshop, iDVD, UI Scripting and much more!
3:39:24 PM
Safari scripts available now
As I was checking the AppleScript dictionary for Safari, Kirk Klingbiel, of MacScripter.net fame, kindly sent an email announcing his discovery of several Safari scripts from Apple. Already! They include Import Image Into iPhoto, Reuters Top News Compilation Email (an example of page scrubbing), Display Thumb-Linked Images, Create Phone List, Full Screen, and Side-By-Side. On a related note, Safari, while not full featured, appears to be a decent browser considering its beta status. I haven't had time to test every aspect of it but it's handled everything that I've thrown at it so far. I'll leave it up to others to review it in detail.
3:14:00 PM
Apple can't (con)figure out the bandwidth requirements for Macworld keynote
As is often the case, Apple has not appropriated enough bandwidth for the live keynote feed from Macworld. QuickTime Player times out while "configuring". Bummer.
Update: I finally connected and got to see the new Powerbooks. Excellent! Now it's time to find out if there are any AppleScript goodies hidden in the software which was announced, including the new browser named Safari.
12:49:01 PM
iDo Script Scheduler 1.5
iDo Script Scheduler lets you automatically run AppleScripts at any time you choose. It offers t