Updating Apple Stuff

Hey, I've been browsing the forums for quite some time now, but haven't posted until now.

Just curious about updating and keeping packages for Apple apps, securty updates and so forth. How do you know whether packages include previous updates?

I understand if you're updating the OS, say 10.4 to 10.4.2, you need to use the combo package to include teh 10.4.1 changes. What about apps? For example, I used software update to update iPhoto from the default to 5.0.3, and kept the package. I later updated to 5.0.4 (and also kept the package) - if I were to reinstall, or wanted to update another mac straight to 5.0.4, can I just use the 5.0.4 pack? Or did Software Update recognise I had 5.0.3 and I only have 5.0.4 that works if you have 5.0.3? Hmm...this probably sounds really confusing. Basically, how do I know if my packages are essentially 'combo' versions, useable for any previous version, or just useble as a point update from teh previous one?

How about for security updates? I understand any security updates are included in OS updates... I also noticed that 007 v1.1 actually replaced my v1.0 in my packages folder (I think).

Any info would be greatly appreciated.

Oh yeah, I love this place.

 

Thanks for the input. Actually, I'm not having any problem, I'm just curious about how updates are performed. I always use software update, so no real issue for me. In particular, I wanted to update someone else's mac, without having to download the packages again.

So you're saying I can't use 5.0.4 update on a non-5.0.3 iPhoto?

ie. it's NOT a 'combo' update? I was looking at the sizes of the packages, and each is 40 or so Megabytes - so in total it's an 80 + update? Or if 5.0.4 is a combo style, does it know what needs replacing, adn what doesn't?

I know it's unimportant information, but I'm the type of person to like knowing this stuff, just for curiosities' sake.