Mount Up: Regulate Root-Level Automounts With Synthetic.conf
The rhythm is the mount, and the mount is the trouble
macOS Automounts with synthetic.conf
One of the more interesting administration changes for macOS is the /etc/synthetic.conf file — a tool that gives you control over creating “virtual” directory mounts in the root filesystem. Whether you’re mapping an SMB share, adding an NFS mount, or creating a placeholder directory, this utility offers power, flexibility, and some unexpected quirks.
What Exactly is synthetic.conf Used For?
The synthetic.conf file allows macOS users to define non-existent directories or symbolic links in the root filesystem. The system processes this file during boot, making it ideal for creating mounts for network shares like SMB or NFS. It’s a lightweight way to automate mounting without relying on external scripts or tools.
macOS Zoom Settings for Microphone
How I sound shouldn’t be a distraction if I’m talking with my colleagues on Zoom. I use a variety of microphones during the day. Built-in MacBook Pro, AirPods, and my trusty Shure SM7B dynamic microphone. Each microphone has its own sound and purpose. Sometimes it’s for high quality recordings or interviews, while other times for ease. Microphones are not the only variable, since location changes too. My team can tell you I call from coffee shops a number of times, which can be noisy depending on who ordered an espresso. My home office/bedroom doesn’t have much on the walls or floor, making it perfect for echoes. So while one microphone maybe good for one space, another one might be dreadful.
Language is key during incidents
“Cognitive load” is a term that refers to the amount of working memory resources someone can process at a given time. Working memory is a limited resource in capacity, related to how we learn and process information. If we have a lot of distractions (noise) or are constantly shifting tasks, it can impact our ability to learn. Why does this matter? During troubleshooting, people are actively trying to learn about what is happening in a system. They need to gather facts and understand what happened. Decisions need to be made. Depending on incident severity, the pressure to get things working can also be strong. Even more factors can be added, like if it’s their first on-call shift or if they think they are responsible for breaking the system. Whatever the factors, there’s a lot in an incident and that they compound against the troubleshooter’s ability to learn what’s happening. This is also why we need to ensure we’re not adding noise to an already noisy working memory of everyone involved. Ensure that the people in the room (real or virtual) don’t have diminished cognitive load and can stay focused on the problem.
