Software help

[DrBoost]

If this is the wrong place for this, please accept my apologies and move it. If you move it, can you shoot me an IM so I know where it is?
I ordered a Prusa i3v (10") Friday and am getting the final pieces of the puzzle ready. I need software, like a slicer program, right? What other software do I need? Lastly, I'm working on a mac, so I need something that is mac compatible.
Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks.

[LambdaFF]

Hi you need to perform various tasks :
1/ Either download a STL model or design it. For that, there are loads of choices and I think it's not your question.
2/ If you downloaded the STL model, or if your design skills are a bit shaky, it is recommended to check it. You can use meshmixer (free), netfab (free too).
3/ You need a slicer to create the Gcode for your machine from the STL model. Free versions include CURA, Slic3r, ... I think they are MAC compatible.
4/ Then use need software to send the Gcode to your printer. You can avoid that if you have a LCD interface with SD card reader but for initial setup and initial learning curve that wouldn't be a great idea. A free option is Repetier.

Or, you can replace steps 2 to 4 with Simplify 3D. It's not free but I really love it (if you're wondering, no I'm not working at S3D), it removes a lot of the hassles for you and the actual slicing takes minutes which is really nice when you do several iterations.

[DrBoost]

Thanks Lambda.
I do have an LCD interface with SD card slot. I'd love to simplify it with Simplify 3D, but I don't want to spend that kind of coin, ouch. For steps 2 and 3 you mention a few examples. Do you have any good/bad experience with any of them?
Again, thanks for helping to get this newb up to speed. I think once the printer is here and assembled, these things will make more sense and come together for me.