Report--MicroMat TechTool Pro 2.5.1 Updater

"Here's a rundown on the changes, taken from the "Version 2.5.1 Change List" inside the Updater file:

• Faster File and Disk Optimization for both HFS and HFS+ volumes.
• Calculate the installed VRAM size of all iMacs and Power Macintosh G3's.
• Display RAM configuration for all iMacs and Power Macintosh G3's.
• Improved Volume Structure detection and repair capabilities.
• Enhanced File Recovery options.
• Full support of USB floppy and hard drives.
• Full support of FireWire hard drives.
• Support of 32-bit custom icons.
• Added Trash Cache recovery for undeletion of files.
• Added Diagnostics check of Volume Structures at specified intervals.
• Full compatibility of the latest iMacs, PowerMac G3's, including the bronze keyboard PowerBook G3's.
• Full compatibility of System 8.6.

The READ ME provides a detailed step-by-step set of procedures for updating the utility, followed by MicroMat's friendly offer of help. There are more manual updating of files than we have become used to with the latest and greatest Apple system software updaters. But, at least one has complete control of the process. And, the MindVision VISE installers worked flawlessly. One is cautioned beforehand to have your original TechTool Pro serial numbers handy, with reminders of how to find them, because they have to be entered again once the new software is used. The updater is promoted as updating any version of TechTool Pro 2, but in fact the 2.5.1 updater only updates the 2.1.1 version. If you have an older version, you have to update it first to 2.1.1.

I ran through the Simple Interface of the utility after updating. It ran smoothly and I sensed a speedier process. Several icons were found that needed file forks modified; they had passed muster only yesterday with TTP 2.1.1. The Optimization feature has been tweaked. It runs faster and you no longer have a choice of file or disk defragmentation (with the admonition that one invited big trouble if file defragmenting was not done before disk defragging). Now, your choice is either Files Only or File & Disk defragmentation. Other features noted above and well explained in the "What's New in 2.5" file await me.

TechTool Pro 2, already considered by many as their Mac disk utility of choice, just got better and - unlike some competitors - MicroMat has provided the upgrade free of cost. (A bootable CD version is available for $25.) "