Odds and Ends: Using Java 1.4.2 in FireFox, other browsers; Mac mini and iPod Shuffle problem?

Using the latest versions of Java in Firefox MacFixIt reader Sam Sjogren notes a workaround that allows Firefox to use the latest Java releases from Apple, rather than being stuck at version 1.3.1:

"In evaluating whether Java was working properly on my Macs with the update to Mac OS X 10.3.9, I used Sun's web page that tests the Java virtual machine and found that although Safari was using version 1.4.2, Firefox was only using version 1.3.1. After a bit of research I found that the API for Apple's Java package changed between 1.3.1 and 1.4.2, requiring a bit of "glue" to be added to allow non-Safari browsers to use the later version. Fortunately, a kind person has provided this workaround; I have installed the package and now Firefox is able to use Java 1.4.2."

Mac mini and iPod Shuffle problem? MacFixIt reader Guy reports that his iPod Shuffle will only be recognized by his Mac mini when the device is plugged into a certain USB port -- an issue for which we are seeking confirmation:

"The iPod Shuffle is recognized only by the Mac and iTunes when plugged into the rightmost USB port (when looking at the Mac mini from the front) but is not recognized at all when plugged into the leftmost port. With the iPod Shuffle plugged into the rightmost port no device is shown when viewing the USB bus in the Apple System Profiler and iTunes does not start.

"Interestingly a normal 4G iPod 40GB can be plugged into either USB port and works fine so the issue seems restricted to the iPod Shuffle and is reliably repeatable.

"The iPod Shuffle firmware version is 1.1 and the Mac mini is running Mac OS X 10.3.9 with all of the latest security patches (as of 17th April 2005) applied. To make sure it wasn't a corruption in the iPod Shuffle firmware I have performed a firmware restore on the Shuffle but the problem remains."

If you are having a similar issue, please let us know.

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