I was given a change to work and evaluate IOS application development using Xcode suite. To do this, I need to work in Mac environment(in this case, a MacBook Pro). Comming from Windows platform, everything was new to me in terms of software apps, way of navigation, file operations, user interface, application behavior,. etc (and many more). As i begin to familiarize myself with the Mac environment, i try to look for helpfull applications and utilities that are free of charge, open-source or licensed for public use.
The following free, licensed for public and open-source applications and utilities are so far stuffs that i installed on my Mac machine.
Applications
Eclipse - I am using Eclipse IDE to work with desktop application development and Android SDK research using Java in a Mac OS. (Not related to IOS development? yeah, but its kinda nice to try developing Java apps in Mac environment)
TextWrangler - In my case, I use this light weight tool to do coding for HTML, PHP, Javascript, CSS and other scripting language that I need to work with. TextWrangler has features more than just the languange syntax highlighting packed in it. Visit the site to appreciate.
MySql server - I use MySql Community Edition (open-source) for Database Management.
Sequel pro - Sequel pro is a cocoa based database management application for working with MySQL database.
PostgreSql server - PostgreSql for Mac. Says in their site, "Enterprice Ready Database For Your Mac", sounds interesting? yes? The truth is I havent really tried the PostgreSql for Mac but since, Im on the point where in im looking and collecting tools and apps for software development and database management, Ill give this a try soon.
VLC - When taking a break from programming or diverting away from busy research and development, I use VLC to play my DVD videos. VLC is a free and open-source multimedia application.
OpenOffice.org - Sponsored by Oracle, is a suite of desktop applications that allows me to do Word Processing, Spreadsheets and Presentations without needing Microsoft Office. Other apps included are the Drawing, Database and Formula. OpenOffice.org is both a product and an open-source project.
Utilities
coconutBattery - Recommended in TPC (Tipid PC Forum) allows me to monitor and see my Mac's information such as battery charge, battery capacity, battery temperature and Age of Mac.
MenuMeters - I have installed this utility but have not had time to play with it at the moment. MenuMeters is a set of monitoring tools for Mac OS X that allows you to see information on CPU, memory, disk and network. When installed, it adds the configuration interface in the System Preference.
Lets look for more :)
I fired up google to look for other free, open source and licensed for public applications and utilities. Below are links (i found lots of apps thanks to google) to other blogs and sites that shares free goodies for Mac. I havent had enough time to look at each applications in the links below(there's plenty to choose from depending on the needs). They are only links to a list of recommend and top picks apps. You'll find more if you browse into their site.
1. Mac freeware utility belt by www.thriftmac.com
2. LifeHacker pack for Mac and Essential list of best free Mac downloads
3. 15 must-have free Mac apps by www.makeuseof.com
4. 100 free useful applications for Mac by www.hongkiat.com
5. a collection of free Mac apps by www.freemacware.com
6. Top 10 Mac Text Editors: free and for sale
7. Majorgeeks.com have freeware and shareware list of apps as well.
There you go. Lots of free and open-source apps for Mac to work and play with.
