AppleScript in a Nutshell is the first complete reference to
AppleScript, the popular programming language that gives both power
users and sophisticated enterprise customers the important ability to
automate repetitive tasks and customize applications. As the Macintosh
continues to expand and solidify its base in the multimedia and
publishing industries, AppleScript is the tool of choice on this
platform for creating sophisticated time- and money-saving workflow
applications (applets). These applets automate the processing and
management of digital video, imaging, print, and web-based material.
AppleScript is also gaining a foothold in scientific programming, as
technical organizations adopt G4 CPU-based systems for advanced
computing and scientific analysis. Finally, power users and script
novices will find that AppleScript is a great everyday Mac programming
tool, similar to Perl on Windows NT or Unix.In this well-organized and
concise reference, AppleScript programmers will find:
- Detailed coverage of AppleScript Version 1.4 and beyond on Mac OS 9
and Mac OS X.
- Complete descriptions of AppleScript language features, such as data
types, flow-control statements, functions, object-oriented features
(script objects and libraries), and other syntactical elements.
- Descriptions and hundreds of code samples on programming the various
scriptable system components, such as the Finder, File Sharing, File
Exchange, Network scripting, Web scripting, Apple System Profiler, the
ColorSync program, and the numerous powerful language extensions
called osax or scripting additions.Most other AppleScript books are
hopelessly out of date. AppleScript in a Nutshell covers the latest
updates and improvements with practical, easy to understand tips,
including:
- Using AppleScript as a tool for distributed computing, an exciting
development that Apple Computer calls program linking over IP.
Programmers can now do distributed computing with Macs over TCP/IP
networks, including controlling remote applications with AppleScript
and calling AppleScript methods on code libraries that are located on
other machines.
- Using the Sherlock find application to automate web and network
searching.
- Insights on scripting new Apple technologies such as Apple Data
Detectors, Folder Actions, Keychain Access, and Apple
Verifier.AppleScript in a Nutshell is a high-end handbook at a
low-end price--an essential desktop reference that puts the full power
of this user-friendly programming language into every AppleScript
user's hands.
