how to show hidden files on os x 10.5.8

Open Terminal, enter this command:

defaults write com.apple.Finder AppleShowAllFiles TRUE

Then option+rightclick on the Finder icon in the dock and select Relaunch.

Open the Script Editor or AppleScript Editor in one of the subfolders of Applications and run the following:

tell application "Finder" to quit

if (do shell script "defaults read com.apple.finder AppleShowAllFiles") is "1" then

do shell script "defaults write com.apple.finder AppleShowAllFiles 0"

else

do shell script "defaults write com.apple.finder AppleShowAllFiles 1"

end if

delay 2

tell application "Finder" to run

If you change your mind later, run the script again.

(65149)

Get a utility like TinkerTool and under the finder icon is a box you can check.

ADDENDUM

TinkerTool is electronically distributed software. You can download the product free of charge.

http://www.bresink.com/osx/TinkerToolClassicG2.html