Information Technology Reference
In-Depth Information
Selecting memory
Xcode 4 uses memory more efficiently than Xcode 3. Even on larger builds, it's unlikely that 2GB will feel re-
strictive on a Mac that's used exclusively for development. If you create artwork as well as code, you're likely to
have some of the applications in Adobe's Creative Suite running at the same time as you use Xcode. Previewing
graphics in Bridge, editing them in Photoshop and Illustrator, and importing them into an Xcode project is a
standard workflow. Creative Suite and Xcode can work together in 2GB, but 4GB is a more realistic minimum
to prevent disk thrashing and delays.
Choosing a monitor
A monitor, or monitor bank, can be the biggest influence on overall productivity. The less time you spend re-
arranging screen content, the more quickly you can create code. Although you can develop projects successfully
on a monitor with a resolution of 1024x768, a minimum resolution of 1680x1050 is very much more product-
ive. At this resolution, you can see the entire Xcode 4 workspace at once and use it as it was designed to be
used. Larger monitors are even easier to work with, and a dual monitor system provides a significant speed
boost because you can work on multiple projects or multiple files simultaneously.
After you've mastered the essentials of iOS, Xcode, and OS X, you'll spend significant time reviewing class refer-
ences in the various frameworks and exploring message boards looking for code samples and developer tips.
The most efficient way to view the references is to create a set of bookmarks with the most useful class referen-
ces and view simultaneously in tabs in a web browser. You can then switch between them instantly as needed.
