Monday's Mac Gadget by John F. Braun KeyQuencer KeyQuencer from Binary Software A peppy new computer with the latest processor can help you get your work done faster. That's obvious. What isn't obvious is that changing the way you work can save you more time than the most expensive hardware upgrade. Macros are a way of automating the little routines you go through everyday, and probably the easiest way to make your computer feel faster. KeyQuencer is a lean, powerful macro engine that belongs on every true power user's machine. Every macro utility first requires you to script out what you want done, then pick a way to execute the instructions. AppleScript is a very powerful way to write your macros - so powerful and complicated that you may give up before you actually get the hang of it. The popular QuicKeys is much easier to use, but isn't PowerPC native and has fairly high ram requirements. KeyQuencer can be described as a balance between these two solutions. Unlike QuicKeys, KeyQuencer requires you to type out what you want it to do. However, the scripts are exceedingly simple to create and there are so many pre-made scripts you may not need to write any yourself. Screen shot of MacDim in action Once made, macros run in PowerPC native code through an engine that takes a third the ram QuicKeys does. And no other macro utility gives you as many ways to run your masterpieces. The main engine will let you run them from any program using whatever keystroke you choose, and you can also choose to create macro files that run when double clicked or when files are dropped on them. With a little imagination, you'll find dozens of ways to speed up your daily routines. The full version of KeyQuencer is commercial software ($49.95). However, a shareware version called KeyQuencer Lite is available for download so you can get hooked first. If it fits your needs, the Lite version is only $30. Visit KeyQuencer Download KeyQuencer  Monday's Mac Gadget is here to help you with those cool things that we all just have to have on our Macs. Shareware, Freeware, Postcardware, Emailware, and even commercial apps, Monday's Mac Gadget is here to help you find and use the best of these programs. John is a software engineer who works in the corporate R&D group of a Fortune 500 company, focusing on all aspects of communications technology. He has several degrees that claim he knows what he's doing when it comes to computers. After watching co-workers reinstall Windows, search for device drivers, and experience other horrors during the day, he's glad that he comes home to a Mac (compatible) computer. Have any comments, suggestions, or favorite Gadgets? Drop John a line at You can also Post Your Comments below. Current Monday's Mac Gadget Want to Supercharge Your Dock? Check Out Todos! - August 21st Worried About Your Mac Getting Jacked? Get JackSMS - June 12th Want iChat with Tabs? Try Chax! - April 3rd Visit Monday's Mac Gadget Archives for more great Mac Gadgets!