AMF Software (http://www.jamfsoftware.com/) has launched Casper Suite 7.2. The Casper Suite simplifies the lives of system administrators with one centralized framework to inventory, image, update and maintain Mac computers.

Casper Suite 7.2 allows administrators to extend and automate enterprise products on Mac OS X using Extension Attributes, while unifying administration of software into a single console. Additionally, new setup assistants like the Policy Assistant have been incorporated for easier day-to-day use and unleash the depth of the Casper Suite’s capabilities within a simplified and improved user interface. Finally, version 7.2 offers the ability to use Apple's native technology in managing settings on client computers (also known as MCX) will be greatly enhanced by taking advantage of (and contributing to the expansion of) the offerings of the Manifest Destiny open-source project from the creators of AFP548.com.

What's more, version 7.2 broadens the capabilities of the Casper Suite to function as a framework around which an IT ecosystem can be unified and extended to manage Mac OS X resources from a single console. The new version incorporates Extension Attributes, expanding the number of software products that can be distributed and reported upon at the enterprise level. The introduction of Extension Attributes and policy assistants into the Casper Suite simplifies the user interface to make the existing capabilities of the suite readily available to more administrators on a daily basis, according to the folks at JAMF Software.

With the Casper Suite, administrators can automatically set up and store binding policies -- not only for Active Directory, but also for Open Directory, and third-party directory plug-ins such as LikeWise, ADmitMac and Centrify. Administrators can then bind computers while imaging or create policies to bind computers remotely.

Administrators can enforce specific preferences at each log-in (for example, screensaver password, login items, dock settings) with an interface that's compatible with any third-party application that utilizes standard preference files. Contact JAMF for pricing and upgrade options.