Mac software, hardware and tips

Here’s a list of Mac software and hardware that I recommend and endorse.

Other people’s lists

Secrets is a nice database of Mac tweaks and hacks.
Gizmodo has two lists of tips for Snow Leopard here and here.
Ten Great Mac Apps for College Students
OpenSourceMac is a great list of free, open source software for the Mac.
MacLife has a list of 40 Mac apps, arranged by the time of day when you might use each application.
The Magical Macintosh Key Sequences page is so essential that Mac users should print a copy and keep it handy.
tuaw.com has a great ongoing series of MacOS X terminal tips and tricks.

Software

GlimmerBlocker is a free preferences panel that helps block ads in web browsers.
Firefox is a free open source Web browser that is highly customizable and extensible through third-party plugins and themes.
Growl is a free open source notification program that works with many Mac applications.
iFreeMem optimizes RAM and displays a pie chart of memory usage.
Mailplane is a standalone Gmail browser that can handle multiple accounts.
mira extends the Apple Remote on a variety of Apple and third-party applications.
OnyX is a free utility that provides easy access to system maintenance tasks. Read the manual, because it’s powerful enough to help or harm your data and OS X install.
Path Finder is a robust, powerful replacement for the Mac OS Finder that includes file viewing and power file-management features.
TextExpander can convert short text abbreviations into long strings of text. The program will also insert images.
WiFind works with the MacOS X Airport WiFi system, and displays the status and encryption levels of available WiFi hot spots.
coconutWiFi has similar features to WiFind.
Delivery Status is a Dashboard app that checks tracking numbers from most overnight shippers and some retailers.

Hardware

Tom Bihn’s Vertical Brain Cell is a compact bag that provides excellent shock protection and two small pockets. One pocket is a perfect fit for the Apple Remote.

Tom Bihn also makes a variety of bags that will hold the various Mac portables, and there’s even a bag for the Mac Mini.

Sima’s USB Multi Cable with Firewire (SUO-200) combines a standard USB and Firewire jack with 4 different USB connectors and a mini Firewire jack. It does not connect Firewire to USB. It’s a great cable to keep in the desk or the bag.