To readers who have parents with computers, getting "tech support" calls is nothing new. However, the difficulty comes when the parents are older, speak a different language, and may not actually understand what you are saying :-) This is when being able to see what is on their computer screen can be a HUGE help. "Screen sharing" is now a technology that is available on all OSX 10.5 equiped Macintoshes.
Apple has had a feature call Remote Access for many years, but it cost extra and was designed for system administrators rather than the average users. However, with the recent release of OS X 10.5, screen sharing using iChat has been made so easy that "normal" people can now share screens from anywhere across the Internet without having to take a course in systems administration.
All that is required is a relatively fast internet connection, that both parties be connected via the Apple iChat software, and have agreed to "share the screen" when invited to do so. The iChat software then does all of the "work" of making it happen.
When connected, the "shared" screen is visible and controllable by both parties. This is a very easy way to remotely administer a machine. This is also an excellent way to show someone how to do something without actually having to be on site.
This weekend is Father's Day weekend. Some in the office will go home to visit with their dads. Others will go and visit, but will end up spending most of the time "fixing" their dad's computer. If he has a Mac, set up "screen sharing" and fix things before you go. This way, when you get there you can spend more time "visiting" instead of "fixing." [Permalink] - OSX Screen Sharing
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