Hot Topics in TidBITS Talk for 7 December 2009

It’s advice week on TidBITS Talk! Readers are looking for advice on a number of topics, including: finding software to get an old scanner to work, troubleshooting problems with Disk Utility and a crashing Mac Pro, locating a Leopard install disc for an iBook G4, using Logitech software with a Trackman Wheel, pre-configuring an AirPort Express for a vacation devoid of Macs, choosing locator software in the event a laptop is stolen, whether a Chinese TrueType font will work on the Mac, and removing the annoying toolbar that is installed with Vuze.

Scanner software — Reader suggest several options for getting an old scanner working under Mac OS X 10.5.8 and 10.6.2. (14 messages)

Problem with Disk Utility — A reader discovers he’s running the Leopard version of Disk Utility instead of the Snow Leopard version. Could the fact that he keeps the application in a non-default location on his disk be the culprit? (8 messages)

Mac Pro locking up — Normally one would be concerned when a Mac would spontaneously freeze, but in this case, some of the operating system sticks around unexpectedly. (1 message)

Pre-configuring AirPort Express — In anticipation for an upcoming trip, a reader wants to bring only an AirPort Express and an iPhone. What’s the best way to set up the AirPort Express so it will work with various hotel network connections? (6 messages)

MacPhoneHome — Three stolen laptops convinces a reader to look into software that can remotely “phone home” if the computer is nabbed. Which one to buy, or do you choose several? (9 messages)

Help finding 10.5 Leopard for my iBook G4 — It’s possible to still buy Mac OS X 10.5 Leopard, but it’s not obvious where to get it until you read this thread. (13 messages)

Strange doings at Vuze — The BitTorrent app Vuze installs an annoying toolbar in your browser. Other torrent download software doesn’t try to be so forward. (5 messages)

Problems with Logitech Trackman Wheel with Snow Leopard — Does Logitech’s mouse software interfere with Snow Leopard, or is some other problem afoot? (4 messages)

Chinese TrueType Font — Will a font designed for Windows work on the Mac? (8 messages)