Joe Kissell's new "Take Control of VMware Fusion
2" provides Mac users with real-world advice on
the best ways to install, configure, and use
Windows via the virtualization software VMware
Fusion 2. The 130-page ebook, which was brought
to life via a collaboration between TidBITS
Publishing and VMware, starts with a look at
basic concepts and then jumps into the action
with steps for installing Windows for use in
VMware Fusion in these scenarios:

° When installing a new copy of Windows XP or Windows Vista;

° From an already-installed copy of Windows under
Boot Camp, VMware Fusion 1.x, Parallels Desktop,
Virtual PC, or an actual PC;

° From a slipstream disc that contains Windows
plus service packs, updates, drivers, and
settings;

° On the MacBook Air, which lacks an internal optical drive;

° With Mac OS X Leopard Server as a guest operating system;

° For running a virtual appliance that
encapsulates both an operating system and a
ready-to-run application.

After installation, Kissell turns his attention
to working with Windows in a VMware Fusion
virtual machine, explaining key details like how
to remap mouse buttons, simulate missing keys,
configure keyboard shortcuts, switch display
modes, and work with external devices. Other
topics covered include:

° Pros and cons of different ways of using Boot Camp and Fusion;

° How to configure Fusion's Settings window to
get the most out of the software;

° Real-world advice for making Windows and Mac
environments simultaneously available on the same
computer;

° Comparisons of options for sharing files
between Windows and Mac environments;

° Keeping your copy of Windows secure, backed up, and updated;

° The basics of working with Fusion from the command line for advanced users.

The 130-page ebook is available for US$10 at
http://www.takecontrolbooks.com/vmware-fusion-2.html;
it also comes with a coupon for 10 percent off
VMware Fusion 2, an $8 savings.