QuikerTek announces MacBook Air Auto and Airline Charger
QuickerTek has announced the US$89.95 Auto and Airline Charger
(www.quickertek.com/products/macbook_air_auto_airline_charger.php )
for the MacBook Air. Unlike the Apple charger, QuickerTek's charger
recharges the internal battery while you're using the laptop.
All of the standard MacBook Air power options are maintained,
including MagSafe operation. You gain additional power options
through a 2.5mm connector allowing access to other QuickerTek power
products from solar cells to external batteries. There are additional
safety options including a user-serviceable inline fuse as well as
power filtering.
There's even enough power to supply the iPod touch, iPod and/or
iPhone with usable power through the USB port, according to the folks
at QuickerTek. Automobile functionality is provided via a standard
auto power adapter. Users also have a three foot cable.
Likewise authentication software now supports Snow Leopard
Likewise Software has released Likewise Open 5.3 and Likewise
Enterprise 5.3, both of which support Mac OS X 10.6 ("Snow Leopard"),
enabling those systems to be integrated with Microsoft Active
Directory.
Likewise Open allows computers running Mac OS X Snow Leopard to
authenticate with an organization's existing Active
Directory. Likewise Enterprise builds on the authentication engine of
Likewise Open, making it easy for IT managers to authenticate users,
control access to applications and data, centrally manage settings
with group policies and create reports for regulatory audits,
according to Manny Vellon, chief technology officer and co-founder of
Likewise.
In addition, Likewise Enterprise is the only solution to provide 100
percent native support for Apple's Workgroup Manager application, he
adds. Users can find the new Likewise Open software download at
www.likewise.com/download, and the Likewise Enterprise trial at
http://www.likewise.com/register . The new software includes...
Intego announces one-time only Mac security bundle
Intego (http://www.intego.com), the Macintosh
security specialist, has teamed up with other Mac
security software partners for the Mac Security
Bundle.
This bundle, available now through Oct. 31,
contains 12 applications that cover the security
needs of Mac users. Available for US$49.99, this
bundle is 90% off the total price of the programs
purchased individually, according to Intego CEO
Laurent Marteau. The Mac Security Bundle contains
the following programs: ° Intego VirusBarrier X5,
antivirus software;
° Micromat TechTool Pro 5, for hard drive and system repair and maintenance;
° Absolute Software Computrace LoJack, which
tracks, locates and recovers stolen computers;
° Macware WebGhost, which hides your IP address so you can surf anonymously;
° Intego ContentBarrier X5, designed to keep kids
safe from the dangers of the Internet;
° Intego NetBarrier X5, which protects your Mac from Internet attacks;
° Smith Micro Spring Cleaning, which organizes
your hard drive and eliminates...
Latest Kanex Mini DisplayPort adapter supports Full HD 1080P,
Apogee, manufacturer of AV and computer related products, has
released the Kanex Mini DisplayPort with Digital Audio to HDMI
adapter for the MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, Mac Mini, and iMac. This
new adapter (US$59.99) is the latest addition to the current line of
Kanex Mini DisplayPort adapters
(http://kanexlive.com/products/item.aspx?id=3495).
It provides digital audio and video through the use of the Apple
minijack. The Kanex Mini DisplayPort with Digital Audio to HDMI
adapter features a USB 2.0 input able to supply power to the
adapter.
It also supports HDMI 165 MHz, 1.65Gbps per channel, and like the
first generation adapter, it supports HDMI resolutions of up to 1080p
and 8 bit per channel. The Kanex Mini DisplayPort with Digital Audio
to HDMI adapter is also able to support uncompressed audio such as
LPCM, but can also support compressed audio DTS Digital such as
DTS-HD and Dolby True HD formats.
Previously, Mac users only had two options when it came to obtaining
audio from...
Booq expands Boa line of laptop bags
Booq (http://www.booqbags.com, which makes laptop carrying cases for
creative professionals, has expanded its Boa line with the release of
Boa flow, nerve and squeeze. Each bag features a ballistic nylon
exterior and water repellent coating, as well as options like
Terralinq, which helps reunite the owner with a lost bag.
The US$199.95 Boa flow M/XL is a full-featured laptop backpack with
anintelligent interior layout optimized for laptop accessories. It
has side pockets for phone, music player or water bottle and a
breathable back padding.
The Boa nerve S/L is a large laptop messenger bag with removable
laptop sleeve. Ranging in price from $129.95 to $149.95, depending on
the size, the nerve touts a durable water-resistant rubberized bottom
and a large front pocket with built in organizer, exterior handle,
and trolley pass-though on the back.
The $99.95 Boa squeeze is a sleek, everyday backpack keeps the weight
down. It has a lightweight design, Airmesh back padding and a soft
nylex...
MakeMusic updates Finale Notepad, Finale Reader
MakeMusic (http://www.finalemusic.com) has announced the simultaneous
release of Finale NotePad 2010 and an updated, free-of-charge Finale
Reader. Both music notation software packages support current
operating systems and provide compatibility with files created with
Finale 2010, MakeMusic's music notation software program.
Finale NotePad 2010 offers an introduction to the world of music
notation. Available as a download for US$9.95, or purchased on disc
for $19.95, NotePad lets anyone create, play, print, save and share
music notation. Notes can be entered with a mouse, a MIDI keyboard,
or by opening MIDI files. Music plays back with the nuance of Human
Playback and can be heard via the 128-plus included sounds or through
an external MIDI device. NotePad also fosters collaboration as it can
edit, play, print and save files created with other Finale music
notation products. NotePad 2010 includes several new features,
including improved percussion notation and enhanced documentation,...
Mark/Space announces Mac synchronization support for Android
Mark/Space (http://www.markspace.com/android), creator of desktop and
handheld synchronization software, announced that they're developing
an all-in-one desktop sync solution for phones powered by the Android
OS, such as the T-Mobile myTouch and HTC Hero.
The Missing Sync for Android will synchronize contacts and transfer
media files between an Android phone and a computer running Mac OS X,
Windows XP or Windows Vista, says Mark/Space CEO Brian Hall. He adds
that you'll be able to sync s automatically and wirelessly whenever
the phone is near the computer.
Proximity Sync works even when the phone is in a backpack or pants
pocket. Microsoft Outlook, Entourage and Mac OS X Address Book stay
synchronized with an Android phone.
The Missing Sync also makes it easy to enjoy the rich media features
of Android powered phones, Hall says. iTunes and Windows Media Player
music playlists transfer via USB cable without a hitch using The
Missing Sync. You can transfer ringtones, photos and videos...
Blue Microphones announces Eyeball 2.0 web cam
Blue Microphones (http://www.bluemic.com), which specializes in
microphone technology and design, has introduced the Eyeball 2.0, its
next generation web camera with a built-in microphone. Featuring a
higher-quality lens and 2-megapixel camera, Eyeball 2.0 is a
plug-and-play webcam with professional-class, digital audio,
according to William Merchan, vice president, Sales, Blue Microphones.
The Eyeball 2.0 sports a resolution at 1600 x 1200 pixels and an
optical sensor. It features driverless installation for plug-and-play
use with either Mac or PC systems. Its camera-off privacy position
allows the HD lens to retract into the high-fidelity microphone unit.
You can position the webcam thanks to its design and rubber monitor
adapter.
The Eyeball 2.0 has a manufacturer's suggested retail price of
US$79.99. It's available at Amazon.com, Apple retail stores and Fry's
Electronics stores.
Also available now, Blue's wired condenser microphone, Snowball, is
getting a new look. The...
VPN Tracker ready for Snow Leopard
Equinux (http://www.equnix.com) has released VPN Tracker 6.0, the
newest version of its IPSec-based VPN client for Mac OS X. The
upgrade supports the new Internet protocol IPv6 in addition to 64-bit
mode in Mac OS X 10.6 ("Snow Leopard").
With help from a simplified certificate manager, system
administrators can distribute and update current security
certificates with out having to make any changes on the side of the
client. VPN Tracker 6 also maintains data-integrity with the latest
security standards: these include the addition of SHA-2 family of
hash-algorithms, secure internet communication with Diffie-Hellman
(DH) 14+ groups and integration with the new Service Management
Frameworks in Snow Leopard.
VPN Tracker 6 also brings the workflow of the mobile user to the
foreground, according to equinux CEO Till Schadde. The starting point
here is the "Secure Desktop." Here users' documents, Internet
addresses, applications and scripts can all be easily organized
giving VPN-users the...
Vicomsoft InterGate Policy Manager adds Snow Leopard...
Vicomsoft (http://www.vicomsoft.com) has released InterGate Policy
Manager 9.3, an update to their server based web filter, app filter
and network monitoring tool for Mac OS X. InterGate Policy Manager is
now Mac OS X 10.6 ("Snow Leopard") compatible and also available for
purchase via the eSellerate system.
The software provides a granular level of filtering for web content,
peer to peer, telephony and instant messaging apps, comprehensive
logging and more. It's centrally managed, so requires no client
computer software. It can be integrated into any existing network
with little or no configuration changes.
InterGate Policy Manager requires Mac OS X 10.4 or higher. It's
Universal Binary, so runs natively on both PowerPC and Intel Macs.
Contact Vicomsoft for pricing options.
EggPlant updated for Snow Leopard
TestPlant (http://www.testplant.com/") has updated Eggplant, test
automation software, to version 10.1. The upgrade is compatible with
Mac OS X 10.6 ("Snow Leopard").
Eggplant is designed to provide a comprehensive solution for
functional, behavioral and regression testing. Eggplant's black-box
approach to application automation and testing, combined with its
cross-platform capabilities, makes it the ideal choice for any
organization that is seeking a tool that is easy to use, according to
the folks at TestPlant.
A demo is available for download. You'll have to contact TestPlant for pricing.
OtterBox reveals Commuter, Commuter TL Series Cases for the
OtterBox (http://www.otterbox.com) has introduced two new cases for
the iPhone 3G and iPhone 3GS: the Commuter and Commuter TL Series.
Fusing elements from the Defender and Impact Series, the cases were
designed to "highlight the true beauty of the iPhone in three
slender, yet sturdy layers," according to the folks at OtterBox.
First, a self-adhering screen cover protects from scratches, while
the touch screen remains completely functional. Second, a silicone
skin wraps over the device to protect corners from bump and shock.
Dust intrusion is reduced with the use of silicone plugs over audio
port and dock connector. Finally, a smooth, one-piece, custom molded
polycarbonate shell hugs tightly around the silicone allowing the
case to easily into a pocket or purse. The new Commuter Series offers
optional, interchangeable color shells and the Commuter TL comes in a
variety of color choices.
Both Commuter and Commuter TL Series cases come with a microfiber
cleaning cloth and installation...
OWC announces 1TB Mercury On-The-Go
Other World Computing (OWC) has announced its
newest newest OWC Mercury On-The-Go Pro model
(http://eshop.macsales.com/shop/firewire/on-the-go),
which it says is the first FireWire 800/400 and
USB 2.0 bus powered 2.5-inch portable drive
offering 1TB of storage capacity on the market.
The pocket-sized portable storage solution for
Mac or PC users features FireWire 800, FireWire
400, and/or USB 2.0 connectivity for data
transfer speeds up to 100MB/s and is bus powered
so it can be used without an AC adapter. With 1TB
of storage capacity, the Mercury On-The-Go Pro
now offers 100% more data storage capacity than
the highest capacity offered in the Mercury
On-The-Go Pro line at the start of September.
Small enough to fit into a shirt pocket with a
3.5 x 5.5 x 1 inch footprint, the OWC Mercury
On-The-Go Pro 1TB model can hold up to 1,000,000
JPEG photos, 500 DVD movies, 76 hours of digital
video, or 350,000 MP3 songs in its impact
resistant acrylic case. It can be used for data
backups,...
PDF210 products ready for Snow Leopard
Recosoft Corp. (http://www.recosoft.com) -- the developer of the
PDF2Office family of products, PDF2ID tool for InDesign cross
platform file format conversion solutions and PDF converters - is
shipping PDF2ID Standard 2.0 and PDF2ID Professional 2.1. The
upgrades are ready for Mac OS X 10.6 ("Snow Leopard"), as well as
Windows 7. They also include additional refinements further easing
the PDF-to-InDesign conversion process.
PDF2ID provides a direct, transparent process for PDF document data
retrieval and reuse within InDesign. It's been engineered to provide
seamless integration with Adobe InDesign to eliminate the necessity
to acquire and install additional PDF data recovery tools.
PDF2ID 2.1 is available immediately in the following configurations:
US$299 for the standard configuration; $399 for the pro version; $129
for a standard upgrade for version 1.x standard licensees; and $159
for upgrades for 1.x pro licensees).
New how-to educational library for Photoshop launched by Scott
Scott Kelby, president of the National Association of Photoshop
Professionals (NAPP) and conference chair of Photoshop World
Conference & Expo, has unveiled the newest NAPP member benefit ,
H.E.L.P. (http://www.photoshopuser.com/benefits/) -- for How-to
Educational Library for Photoshop -- during the opening keynote at
the Photoshop World Conference & Expo in Las Vegas.
If you've ever wondered what a particular checkbox, tool, filter, or
option was in Adobe Photoshop , NAPP set out to show you just that in
short 60-second max videos. After input from thousands of beta
testers around the world, H.E.L.P. has been tweaked, updated,
simplified, and expanded, according to Kelby.
Along with the H.E.L.P system, NAPP launched a new project for people
who are brand new to Photoshop, to help them get up to speed fast,
with 2009 NAPP Photoshop Hall of Fame inductee Dave Cross as their
personal guide and trainer. It's available on the NAPP member web
site (http://www.photoshopuser.com...
Nvidia unveils next gen CUDA GPU architecture codenamed '...
Nvidia (http://www.nvidia.com) has introduced its
next generation CUDA GPU architecture, codenamed
"Fermi." An entirely new ground-up design, the
"Fermi" architecture is the foundation for the
world's first computational graphics processing
units (GPUs), delivering breakthroughs in both
graphics and GPU computing, according to Jen-Hsun
Huang, co-founder and CEO of Nvidia.
Presented at the company's inaugural GPU
Technology Conference, in San Jose, California,
"Fermi" delivers a feature set that accelerates
performance on a wider array of computational
applications than ever before, he adds. Joining
Nvidia's press conference was Oak Ridge National
Laboratory who announced plans for a new
supercomputer that will use Nvidia GPUs based on
the "Fermi" architecture. "Fermi" also garnered
the support of organizations including Bloomberg,
Cray, Dell, HP, IBM and Microsoft.
Huang says that, as the foundation for Nvidia's
family of next generation GPUs namely GeForce,
Quadro and Tesla, "Fermi"...
Toon Boom releases the New Harmony solution
Toon Boom Animation (http://www.toonboom.com) has
announced the release of the new Harmony Solution
which combines technology with professional
consultancy services. The Harmony Solution is an
animation solution to create traditional,
paperless and cut-out animation, all integrated
in a simplified network-base pipeline. Features
include:
° A core animation engine to handle multiple high
definition projects, OpenGL anti-aliasing and
more effects;
° Full 3D rotation of camera and elements with real-time playback;
° An expanded content creation toolset with
enhanced Brush Tool, WYSIWYG preview, edition of
several gradients or textures simultaneously;
° An enhanced animation toolset with symbols and a new animated read module;
° Improved networking and collaborative workflow
with detachable Stage client for off-site work
and integration for Toon Boom Manager for
production tracking;
° A simplified user interface with redesigned
icons, simplified contextual interface and
optimized with...
Electric Butterfly releases The Developer Sketchbook for iPhone
Electric Butterfly has announced the publication of "The Developer
Sketchbook for iPhone Apps" (http://www.developersketchbook.com/) by
Dave Wooldridge. It's available on Amazon.com for US$19.99.
The Sketchbook is designed to enable iPhone developers to quickly
mock-up their next iPhone app. Its grid-based design templates
provide visual guidelines for the accurate size and placement of
commonly used elements.
The Sketchbook includes: 100 pages of 320 x 480 grids for portrait
user interface design; 100 pages of 480 x 320 grids for landscape
user interface design; 200 pages of flowcharts for outlining an app's
navigation; 100 pages of square grids for app icon design; and
dedicated space on every page for detailed notes.
FMP Ref iPhone/iPod touch app now includes Troi plug-in...
Troi Automatisering and CNS Plug-ins announce the immediate
availability of function references for all FileMaker Pro 7+ Native
Troi Plug-ins in the FMP Ref iPhone/iPod Touch App. FMP Ref is a
quick reference for Calculation Functions, Script Steps, Plug-ins and
more. FMP Ref is available via the iTunes App Store. More
information can be found at http://www.cnsplug-ins.com/fmpref.htm
FMP Ref is a FileMaker(R) Pro Reference that's always in your pocket.
It includes references for Calculation Functions, Script Steps, and
Error Codes, and now all Troi Plug-in Functions! After purchasing
the app (it's only $1.99!), switch to the Plug-ins tab and use the
Plus button in the top-right to install plug-in references for your
favorite plug-ins.
FMP Ref is available through the Apple App Store for US$1.99.
Eltima Software releases Flash'in'App 2.5 for Snow...
Eltima Software has released Flash'in'App 2.5
(http://mac.eltima.com/cocoa-framework.html), a Cocoa framework which
lets developers load and fully manage Flash movies right within Mac
applications. The upgrade is revved for Mac OS X 10.6 ("Snow Leopad").
This framework contains a set of classes, which provide application
with the ability to load, play and manage any SWF files right within
this application. The application can communicate with SWF file via
External API, FSCommands and Variables.
Implementing Flash'in'App in application extends its functionality in
several time. Flash is able to handle sounds, video and images. With
Flash'in'App application will be able to work with all these media
files too. Additionally, Flash'in'App allows creating custom-shaped
windows and running your Windows Flash-enabled applications' GUI on
Mac.
With Flash'in'App users can easily create amazing Flash interfaces
for any of Mac applications, add a tutorial or anything else. In fact
all the...
PageSpinner updated and ready for Snow Leopard
Optima System has released version 5.2 of PageSpinner
(http://www.optima-system.com/pagespinner/), the web development
package for Mac OS X. The upgrade adds JavaScript syntax checking,
Mac OS X 10.6 Snow Leopard compatibility, support for Include Scripts
written in PHP, Python and AppleScript to create contents each time a
page is saved to disk, support for uploading files with Fetch 5,
editor and interface enhancements, improved AppleScript support, bug
fixes, and more.
PageSpinner costs US$29.95 for a single-user license that also
includes free registrations of MapSpinner, the HTML image map editor,
and CamSpinner, the video and web cam utility. Purchased separately
MapSpinner and CamSpinner cost $27.90.
HyperOffice introduces HyperBase 'cloud-computing'...
HyperOffice (http://www.hyperoffice.com/demos) has announced
HyperBase, "cloud-computing" software tools that give business users
the ability to collect, manage and analyze web-based data -- and
share it with teams, customers, partners and suppliers.
Users of HyperBase can create online database management applications
for automating common business tasks, such as managing events,
tracking inventory and sales leads, user and customer surveys, and
processing support tickets, says Farzin Arsanjani, president of
HyperOffice. HyperBase is an alternative to Microsoft Access and
other traditional database software, he adds.
"It moves this data to the web, where it can be shared with
colleagues, managers and clients anywhere on the planet, using public
web sites, private Intranets and mobile devices, including
smartphones," Arsanjani says. ""HyperBase is tightly integrated with
and adds significant new power to HyperOffice."
HyperOffice is online messaging and collaboration software....
iHome ships new dual dock alarm clock radio for the iPhone, iPod
iHome (http://www.ihomeaudio.com), a supplier of iPod/iPhone speaker
solutions, is shipping the US$149.99 iP88 Dual Docking Station for
iPhone/iPod. The iP88 is the first iHome unit that allows users to
dock and charge two iPhones simultaneously and also charge iPod
models, all while serving as a great-sounding alarm clock radio,
according to Evan Stein of iHome.
Shielded for iPhone and compatible with docking iPod models, the iP88
allows users to charge, play and wake to a designated playlist, AM/FM
radio or buzzer, has three separate alarm settings and a remote
control. It's equipped with Reson8 stereo speakers, EQ and 3D sound.
EntourageABMenu ready for Snow Leopard
JNSoftware (http://www.jonn8.com/) has updated EntourageABMenu, a Mac
OS X tool for utilizing an Microsoft Entourage address book data
through a system-wide menu, to version 1.5.8. The upgrade adds
support for Mac OS X 10.6 ("Snow Leopard"), as well as implementing
minor code and interface updates.
EntourageABMenu provides access to your contacts' phone numbers,
email, postal addresses, URLs and notes. Selecting a menu item will
trigger an action such as displaying the content in large type,
copying it to the clipboard, creating a new email, dialing the phone
(accomplished by running a customizable AppleScript), or showing an
address on a map using any of several online mapping services. Phone
dialing requires the use of additional software such as Jon's Phone
Tool.
EntourageABMenu requires Mac OS X 10.4.9 or later. It costs US$15.
PowerbookMedic offers way to up internal storage of Apple laptops
PowerBookMedic (http://www.powerbookmedic.com), a provider of parts
for Apple laptops and iPods, has announced a new line of DualDrive
devices that can more than double the internal storage capacity in
Mac laptops.
The DualDrive replaces the internal optical drive in a Mac laptop
with a second hard drive. The device has a current maximum capacity
of up to 750GB for non-Macbook Unibody models, and 500GB for Macbook
Unibody models. This allows for a current maximum internal storage
capacity of over 1TB in all MacBook, MacBook Pro, PowerBook G4, and
iBook laptops. The MacBook Pro 17-inch (non Unibody) has a maximum
capacity of 1.5TB.
DualDrive pricing starts at US$59.95 for a bare unit with no drive
installed, and goes up to $259.95 for the 750GB 5400RPM model.
Intuit announces QuickBooks 2010 for Mac
Intuit has announced QuickBooks 2010 for Mac. Due in late October at
a suggested retail price of US$199.95, it's designed to give small
business owners new tools that help them be more productive and
profitable with the simplicity they expect from a Mac product. It has
over 40 enhancements.
Kiran Patel, executive vice president and general manager of Intuit's
Small Business Group, says QuickBooks 2010 sports a faster setup
process. It reduces the number of set-up screens from 30 in the
previous version to two. The upgrade also gives users insights to
make smart business decisions with customizable, at-a-glance
financial reports and graphs, and makes it easier to process credit
card payments and track billable hours with integrated add-on
services.
In addition to getting paid, business owners can pay their employees
with Intuit QuickBooks Payroll for Mac, an integrated add-on online
payroll service. It helps users manage everything from paychecks to
W2 forms, including federal and...
iPresentee releases Keynote Themes 6.0
iPresentee (http://www.ipresentee.com), a developer of add-ons for
Apple's iWork and iLife applications, has released Keynote Themes 6.0
and free Keynote themes to be used with Keynote. Keynote is Apple's
presentation component of the US$79 iWork suite.
Keynote Themes 6.0 includes 10 new themes: Ornamental Map, Rest,
Green Town, Presentation, Futuristic, Dark Way, Blue World, Globe,
Puzzle and Green Bunch. . The new release extends iPresentee's
Keynote themes collection up to 100 themes. What's more, each Keynote
user is free to download seven free Keynote themes.
The new Keynote Themes collection offers a variety of presentation
styles with coordinated fonts, colors, backgrounds, bullets and
picture frames. Each theme is available in standard or HD formats.
Keynote Themes has from 17 to 22 different master slide layouts.
Creating a presentation using new Keynote themes is exactly the same
as creating a presentation using the usual themes. You can: add,
edit, and format text; add...
LaCie releases speakers based on Cabasse's loudspeaker...
LaCie (http://www.lacie.com) has announced high-end speakers, modeled
after Cabasse's loudspeaker technology -- the LaCie Sound2 Speakers,
design by Neil Poulton. Cabasse is an acoustic engineering company.
The speakers are designed for use with any computer system or A/V
device.
Coupled with Cabasse's loudspeaker driver support, the LaCie Sound2
Speakers provide premium sound quality to computers, according to
Alexis Kobassian, Product Manager.. Additionally, users can use the
line-in connection to experience the same high-quality sound from
audio/video devices like iPods and portable multimedia players, he
adds.
To use the LaCie Sound2 Speakers, you just plug them into a Mac or PC
USB connection or line-in port on a peripheral device, and they're
ready to go. No driver installation is necessary. Also, for added
functionality, the LaCie Sound2 Speakers come with a built-in USB
cable and volume control.
The LaCie Sound2 Speakers can provide 30W total peak power output and
an expansive...
Tycoon Games announces Heileen 2: The Hands of Fate
Tycoon Games (http://www.winterwolves.com), the developer of dating
sim and visual novels, has announced the development of the sequel to
one of their most popular games, Heileen. It's due for release in
November on Mac, PC and Linux platforms.
The game takes place on the mysterious Caribbean island where Heileen
was shipwrecked with a few of her friends at the end of the first
game. She stumbles upon a deck of tarot cards that represent the
seven deadly sins and the seven heavenly virtues. It isn't long
before she discovers that these cards have the power to change both
her dreams and her reality.
"The seven deadly sins are a common motif in art, books, comics,
movies and songs, but most people seem to forget the seven heavenly
virtues. In a world as complex as ours, I felt that it would be wrong
to ignore the virtues, as they too are an intricate part of our
lives," says Celso Riva, the designer and programmer of the game.
Like Tycoon Games' most recent game, Bionic Heart, the...
ManiacTools releases MIDI to MP3 Converter for the Mac
ManiacTools (http://www.maniactools.com) has released MIDI to MP3
Converter for Mac OS X (10.5 and higher). The US$29.95 app lets you
convert MIDI files into into WAV or MP3. By using "SoundFonts," it
can purportedly surpass the capabilities of a particular sound card,
producing tunes that sound better, compared to the computer's usual
output.
Several SoundFonts can be used simultaneously, so the user is able to
assign individual SoundFonts to each instrument instead of using
ready-made General MIDI sets. In other words, the program turns a
usual home computer into a powerful synthesizer with a potentially
unlimited number of instrument samples, according to the folks at
ManiacTools.
Using SoundFonts, MIDI to MP3 Converter will convert a five-minute
MIDI file into MP3 in a few seconds. The program has a built-in ID3
tag editor and can supply converted files with important information,
like title, artist etc. It will accept MIDIs that are dragged and
dropped into its window....
Elgato releases EyeTV app for the iPhone, iPod touch
Elgato has released the EyeTV app for the iPhone and iPod touch. It's
available at the Apple App Store for US$4.99. With the EyeTV app,
EyeTV users can watch live TV and recordings on an iPhone/iPod touch
and browse the detailed program guide.
They can also use the iPhone to start recording TV shows back home on
a Mac immediately, or to schedule them to record later. The EyeTV app
connects to any Mac running the latest version of Elgato's TV
software, EyeTV 3.2, and can automatically find a Mac on the local
network using Bonjour. The EyeTV app can also find and access a
remote Mac via "My EyeTV," a free locator utility introduced today as
part of EyeTV 3.2.
EyeTV 3.2 and the EyeTV app use Apple's new HTTP streaming technology
that was introduced with iPhone OS 3.0. Unlike other proprietary
streaming solutions, EyeTV relies on Apple's specifications for
adaptive streaming using H.264 video and AAC audio codecs. EyeTV also
uses the iPhone's hardware acceleration for playback, and...
CUDA Fortran Compiler beta release available
Nvidia has released a public beta of the PGI CUDA-enabled Fortran
compile. Developed in collaboration with The Portland Group , it's
the first Fortran compiler compatible with Nvidia CUDA -enabled
graphics processing units (GPUs).
A compiler is a software tool that translates applications from the
high-level programming languages used by software developers into a
binary form a computer can execute. Developers are invited to
download the beta CUDA Fortran compiler for Mac OS X, Windows and
Linux systems from The Portland Group web site
(http://www.pgroup.com/support/downloads.php).
The PGI CUDA Fortran compiler requires the CUDA Software Developers
Kit (SDK) which is available from CUDA Zone
(http://www.nvidia.com/cuda). PGI compilers are recognized in the HPC
community for delivering world-class performance across a wide
spectrum of applications and benchmarks, according to the folks at
Nvidia.
Freeverse releases Eye Glasses app for the iPhone, iPod touch
Freeverse has announced the release of Eye Glasses, an iPhone
application that clearly displays objects that are too small to make
out -- from fine print to photo details. It's available for US$2.99
at the Apple App Store
(http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewSoftware?id=331625...).
Eye Glasses uses the iPhone 3GS autofocusing camera to clearly
display text or imagery. To use Eye Glasses, users choose between
four different levels of magnification -- from 2x, 4x, 6x or 8x.
Point the iPhone camera at the item, and see it magnified on the
screen as the camera sharpens the image.
Cocktail 4.4 (Tiger Edition) has been released
Cocktail 4.4 (Tiger Edition), a general purpose utility for Mac OS X,
has been released. This version (http://cocktail.maintain.se) fixes
various bugs discovered in the previous release.
Cocktail (Tiger Edition) is now distributed as freeware and doesn't
require a license. The update is strongly recommended for all users
of Cocktail (Tiger Edition). It's distributed as a Universal Binary
and runs natively on both PowerPC and Intel Macs.
Typinator for Mac OS X adds Dropbox support
Ergonis Software (http://www.ergonis.com) has released Typinator 3.6,
the latest version of its tool for auto-typing text and
auto-correcting typos system-wide across all Mac OS X applications.
The new version hadds support for Dropbox, an online platform and
software that automatically syncs your files across your computers.
Setting up Typinator for using Dropbox synchronization is as easy as
defining Typinator's set folder to be located inside your Dropbox
folder with a new preferences setting. Now your snippets will be
instantly available on any of your other computers that you've
configured that way.
Additionally, Typinator 3.6 implements more improvements and changes,
including speed enhancements and increased compatibility with Mac OS
X 10.6 ("Snow Leopard") and many 3rd party applications.
Typinator 3.6 requires Mac OS X 10.4 or newer, and Mac OS X 10.5
("Leopard") is recommended. The new expansion technique requires Mac
OS X 10.5.5 or newer.
Typinator can be purchased on the...
PDFPen for Mac OS X gets new OCR engine
SmileOnMyMac has updated PDFPen
(http://www.smileonmymac.com/PDFpen/download.html), its PDF editing
and form-filling tool for Mac OS X, to version 4.5. The upgrade --
free to registered users of PDFPen 4.x -- incorporates the Nuance
Communications OmniPage Capture SDK OCR (Optical Character
Recognition) engine for improved accuracy when performing OCR on
scanned text documents.
PDFpen uses version 15.5 of the OmniPage OCR engine. It replaces the
Tesseract open source OCR engine in PDFpen on Intel-based Macs. In
addition to the OCR improvement, PDFpen 4.5 includes other new
features.
Mac OS X 10.6 ("Snow Leopard") users can now scan directly into
PDFpen from Image Capture or TWAIN scanners. SmileOnMyMac also added
a new text highlighting tool which selects and highlights text in a
single action.
PDFpen costs US$49.95, and PDFpenPro is $99.95. Family pack licenses,
which cover up to five computers in one household, are $74.95 for
PDFpen and $129.95 for PDFpenPro. Upgrades from earlier...
Jiggler ready for Snow Leopard
Stick Software has announced version 1.4 of Jiggler
(http://www.sticksoftware.com/software/Jiggler.html), a freeware
utility for Mac OS X. The new version is compatible with Mac OS X
10.6 ("Snow Leopard").
Jiggler keeps your Mac awake through those lengthy tasks when it
would rather fall asleep, by jiggling your mouse periodically. This
means no more having to open System Preferences to change your sleep
time and your screensaver delay, only to have to change them back
again at the end.
Jiggler is Universal Binary, so runs natively on both PowerPC and
Intel Macs. It joins Stick Software products such as PhotoReviewer,
Eyeballs, Trisection, Fracture, BigFoot, Measles, Aquatint and
Constrictor.
RoGame Software releases BandMaster for the iPhone, iPod touch
RationalPlan for Mac OS X gets faster execution speed, interface
Stand By Soft has released RationalPlan 3.15.4
(http://www.rationalplan.com/), an update of the project management
software application developed to assist project managers in creating
plans, tracking progress, allocating resources, managing budgets and
analyzing workload, now going international and planning translation
in several languages. Version 3.15.4 sports an increase in its
execution speed, more task types, and interface improvements.
Until now users could handle tasks that have only fixed units for the
assigned resources. This means that once resources were assigned to
tasks with a certain amount of units these units were fixed that is
do not change on other task changes like duration or work. The
functionality was like this: changing task duration resulted in
keeping units fixed and adjusting task work; and the reverse changing
task work resulted in keeping units fixed and adjusting task duration.
With this new feature, project managers have the possibility to
automatically...
REAL Software ships REALbasic 2009 Release 4
REAL Software (http://realsoftware.com), creator of REALbasic, a
cross-platform development tool for creating software for Mac,
Windows and Linux, is now shipping REALbasic 2009 Release 4. This
release offers 97 improvements and 39 new features, including a new
report editor, which will be included in all versions of REALbasic,
and build automation, a feature exclusive to REAL Studio.
The new report editor allows developers to visually create a layout
for printing by dragging and dropping labels, fields, images and
more. Reports can be created to print a single page or multiple
pages. The layout is divided into sections (header, body, footer as
well as grouping sections for reports that have sorted data).
The new build automation feature of the Project Editor is only
available in the REAL Studio Edition. With Build Automation
developers can now automate the most common functions of building
their applications without having to write IDE scripts.
REALbasic Personal Edition for Mac,...
FileMaker releases Bento 3
FileMaker Inc. (http://www.filemaker.com) has released Bento 3, a new
version of the Mac OS X only personal database. For the first time,
Bento 3 integrates with iPhoto from Apple allowing you to store more
info about your photos and link them to contacts, projects, events
and other information stored in Bento.
Bento 3 also delivers new ways to share your information with other
Bento users. Just like sharing iTunes and iPhotos over a local area
network (LAN) using Apple's Bonjour technology, you can now share
your Bento libraries with up to five users over a wired or wireless
local network. You can also encrypt any field and assign passwords to
secure your information in Bento 3.
The new Grid view in Bento 3 delivers a method of displaying
thumbnails of photos, text and numeric-based information, while
improved File Lists show image thumbnails, instead of just text, says
Ryan Rosenberg, vice president, marketing and services, FileMaker.
With Bento 3, you can choose from 35 pre-...
Intelligent Assistance updates new Sequence Reporting Tool
Intelligent Assistance has updated their Sequence
Clip Reporter to version 1.5, even though the
application has been available for less than two
months. Thanks to a "massive amount" of customer
feedback, "we were able to add the features they
asked for, moving Sequence Clip Reporter forward
to a new version," says Intelligent Assistance'
CEO Philip Hodgetts.
Sequence Clip Reporter takes an XML export from
your finished, edited Final Cut Pro Sequence and
generates usage reports as an Excel spreadsheet
on selected video and/or audio tracks. As well as
all the features of version 1 -- Clip name,
Sequence start and end times; source in and out
and durations, plus comment fields -- version 1.5
adds these features:
° A completely revised interface;
° Video and audio tracks are identified with
different colored text (settable); ° Reports can
be limited to specified audio and video tracks;
° Estimated total duration for each reel is
reported; ° Additional sheets can be generated
for a reel-by...
Zevrix updates ArtOptimizer for Illustrator, adds Snow Leopard
Zevrix Solutions (http://www.zevrix.com) has released ArtOptimizer
2.3, an update to its workflow automation solution for Adobe
Illustrator. The new version is compatible with Mac OS X 10.6 ("Snow
Leopard").
ArtOptimizer eliminates the excess image data of document links and
performs image adjustments, reducing the size of Illustrator job. In
order to eliminate excess image data, ArtOptimizer automatically
scales the images in Photoshop to match their dimensions in
Illustrator, changes resolution according to the target resolution
specified, and reimports images to Illustrator at 100 percent.
In addition, ArtOptimizer can automatically convert image colors,
apply sharpening filters, merge and delete layers, and run Photoshop
Actions during processing. Version 2.3 also addresses several
performance and stability issues.
ArtOptimizer 2.3 can be purchased from the Zevrix Solutions web site
for US$129.95, as well as from authorized resellers. A demo is also
available for download....
Stuffit Deluxe 2010 for Mac OS X adds Connect service
Smith Micro Software has released StuffIt Deluxe
2010 for Mac
(http://www.smithmicro.com/stuffit/mac). The new
Mac OS X 10.6 ("Snow Leopard") compatible release
includes StuffIt Connect, a new cloud-based file
transfer service that lets users share large
files without the hassle of email attachments or
FTP.
StuffIt continues to provide compression
technology, of course. It works with virtually
all files and compression formats, such as Zip.
StuffIt Deluxe 2010 eliminates the constraints of
email attachments by automatically redirecting
large files to the new StuffIt Connect web
service, according to Matthew Covington, senior
director, Product Management of Smith Micro
Software. Recipients receive invitations via
email that contain a link to the hosted file,
which lets them download shared files. Users can
access and create invitations to share content
from any Internet-connected device, including
iPhones and other smartphones. StuffIt Connect
protects files with 512-bit RC4 encryption...
MEI releases InPorter add-on for K4 Publishing System
Managing Editor (MEI), an Adobe premier development partner and a
provider of software solutions for the publishing industry, has
released InPorter, a new add-on utility developed by MEI for the
vjoon K4 Publishing System. InPorter automatically ingests several
different types of external content and their metadata into the K4
workflow.
InPorter is a server-side tool that streamlines the process of moving
content into K4, the editorial solution integrating Adobe InDesign
and Adobe InCopy, for use in production. It handles any kind of
object that can be managed in the K4 system, including InCopy
documents, InDesign layouts, pictures, ads, multimedia and more.
Using InPorter's Web interface, an administrator can configure
workflows for different types of content to be dropped in InPorter's
watched folders. When content arrives -- from a digital asset
management system, wire service, database, syndication partner, Web
site or another K4 publication, for example -- InPorter checks it
into...
Freeverse announces Fairy Trails app for the iPhone, iPod touch
Freeverse has released the Fairy Trails app
(http://freeverse.com/fairytrails), an augmented reality game for the
iPhone and iPod touch, leveraging the latest technology in iPhone OS
3.1, including camera and compass access. It's available for US$1.99
at the Apple App Store
(http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewSoftware?id=331011...).
Here's how the game is described: "Shake the device to power the
detector and then scan your surroundings for magical creatures. Fairy
Trails uses the camera and compass of iPhone 3GS to merge the real
world and game world in spectacular ways. For iPod touch users, a
stunning forest setting is rendered for the fairies to inhabit."
JamBase releases version 2 of its iPhone app
JamBase (http://www.jambase.com), a database of show listings and
ticket information, has released an update (version 2) its free app
for the iPhone and iPod touch. It's available at the Apple App Store
(http://jambase.com/iphone/app).
Music fans can access the JamBase iPhone app and create their own
personalized tour schedule. It gives mobile music fan instant access
to the largest live show database, which combines member-contributed
concert information along with data received from thousands of music
industry partners such as booking agencies, venues and record labels.
JamBase's listings feature 60,000 artists across more than 50 genres,
performing in 70,000 venues worldwide. With version 2, individual
users can personalize their mobile connection to "My JamBase"
features. "My JamBase" is the free JamBase member experience which
enables music fans to track favorite artists and add upcoming shows
to calendars.
QNAP device blends set-top box, networked storage
QNAP Systems (http://www.qnap.com) has unveiled a new network
appliance described as a set-top player crossed with a NAS server.
The NMP-1000 Network Multimedia Player bridges the gap between the
home network and the living room, says Meiji Chang, CEO of QNAP
Systems. It works with Mac, Window, Linux, and even UNIX-based home
networks.
The NMP-1000 solves the dilemma of how to centrally store, manage,
and playback growing amounts of digital content spread around the
home on multiple computers, he adds. It incorporates an internal hard
disk drive that catalogs digital pictures, videos, music, and other
content from computers on the home network and can play them back in
a home theater with the included remote control.
The new NMP-1000 connects to the home network via wired Ethernet
(wireless adapter ready) and to an HDTV via HDMI or Component
interfaces, or composite and S-Video interfaces for standard-def TVs.
The NMP-1000 is capable of playing back smooth Full HD 1080p video.
It...
iMinds releases MP3 'MindTracks'
iMinds (http://www.iminds.com), a new company based in Sydney,
Australia, has announced the release of a catalog of eight-minute
audio books that deliver "bursts of general knowledge." The first 72
of these "MindTracks" are now available for download in the North
America from Audible.com or iTunes and work with any MP3 player.
Initial titles include: "The Federal Reserve," "Epidemics,"
"Parkour," "History of Whaling," "D-Day Invasion," "Seven Wonders,"
"Film Noir," "Stockholm Syndrome" and "Evolution." The iMinds
catalog is expected to grow at an accelerated clip in the coming
months, with hundreds of MindTracks available by the end of 2010,
according to Olivia Woods, founder and managing editor of iMinds.
iMinds employs a mix of professional researchers, writers and topic
experts to produce high quality content designed specifically for the
spoken-audio entertainment format, she adds. All iMinds MindTracks
include high quality voice-over artists mixed with a sound-scape of
music and...
Dataram unveils XcelaSAN storage optimization app
Boris FX updates Boris Continuum Complete product line to version
Boris FX (http://www.borisfx.com) has announced that its flagship
Boris Continuum Complete product line has been updated to version
6.0.4.
The Boris Continuum Complete (BCC) product line includes BCC AE for
Adobe After Effects and Adobe Premiere Pro, BCC FxPlug for Apple
Final Cut Pro, Apple Motion, and Apple Final Cut Express, and BCC AVX
for Avid editing and finishing systems. The new version 6.0.4 release
includes a revamped optical stabilizer filter, enhanced support for
Adobe Premiere Pro and Apple Motion, new animated presets for BCC 6's
3D Objects filters, and official support for Apple Final Cut Pro 7,
Apple Motion 4, Avid Media Composer 4, Avid Symphony 4, and Avid
NewsCutter 8.
BCC 6.0.4 AE is a free update for BCC 6.x AE users, BCC 6.0.4 FxPlug
is a free update for BCC 6.x FxPlug users, and BCC 6.0.4 AVX is a
free update for BCC 6.x AVX users. The BCC 6.0.4 updates are
available for download from the Boris FX web site. Fully functional
14-day trial versions are available...
Miraizon announces Snow Leopard compatibility of Cinematize
Miraizon announced today that its current
versions of Cinematize® products, Cinematize 2
Pro for Macintosh Version 2.03 and Cinematize 2
for Macintosh Version 2.07, have been tested and
certified to be fully compatible with Mac OS X
10.6 Snow Leopard. Free updaters to the latest
versions are available for download at:
http://www.miraizon.com/support/downloads.html
Cinematize 2 and Cinematize 2 Pro are
award-winning DVD movie clip extractors that
allow you to extract audio, video, and subtitle
clips off of DVDs and convert them into formats
compatible with popular applications including
QuickTime, FinalCut, iMovie, iDVD, PowerPoint,
iTunes, Apple TV, and even an iPod. The extracted
clips can be used to create best-of movie clip
collections, multimedia presentations, movie
clips for viewing on an iPod or Apple TV unit, or
movie clips for posting on web sites including
YouTube.
Cinematize 2 includes everything you need to
start extracting from DVDs, while Cinematize 2
Pro includes many...
BoinxTV updated for Snow Leopard
Boinx Software has updated BoinxTV, a live production software for
video podcasters that turns any recent Mac into a TV studio, to
version 1.4. The upgrade is revved for Mac OS X 10.6 ("Snow Leopard")
and also includes support for Axis network cameras and streamlines
the production workflow.
Its interface allows a single person to operate BoinxTV during the
recording session, says Boinx CEO Oliver Breidenbach. After the
starting of BoinxTV, the user can choose from the many predefined
templates, or one he previously created, making it easy to produce,
for example, a news show. In education, BoinxTV opens new horizons
for school TV whether students are recording a sport event or setting
up an interview with two cameras, Breidenbach says. In enterprise,
BoinxTV can be used by sales managers who want to address their staff
in a weekly podcast, he adds. And because it runs on a MacBook Pro it
can be used in the field as well as in a studio.
BoinxTV uses various inputs like video cameras,...
Absoft releases Fortran 11.0
Absoft Corpo. (http://www.absoft.com) -- a developer of compilers,
debuggers and software development tools for high performance
computing -- has announced general availability of the new Absoft Pro
Fortran 11.0 for x86 and x64 based Linux systems.
Release 11.0 is the first of Absoft's high-performance,
auto-parallelizing Fortrans to include support for OpenMP multi-core
parallel programming standards and optimizations for AMD's six-core
Opteron (Istanbul) and Intel Xeon (Nehalem) processors. Absoft's Fx3
graphical debugger has also been upgraded to support OpenMP threads
and the Absoft multi-platform IDE, has added an OpenMP control
feature among other improvements. Supported environments include RHEL
8, SuSE 3, Ubuntu, Fedora and Mandrake. Pricing starts at US$599.
Pro Fortran v11.0 also adds a new scheduler, which has demonstrated
performance increases of up to 10% in resource-constrained
environments, according to Wood Lotz, president of Absoft. SSE4/4.2
instructions are supported...
TI calculator released for the iPhone
Texas Instruments has released a calculator for
the iPhone and iPod touch. With BAII Plus,
business professionals and students can calculate
business deals, client finances, the price of
their next Café Latte on the go and more. It's
available for US$14.99 at the Apple App Store
(http://www.itunes.com/appstore/).
Designed for iPhone-packing realtors,
accountants, stock brokers and anyone who simply
needs to make short work of simple math or
complex financial equations, the BAII Plus app
takes advantage of the iPhone's fast CPU to
process complicated or long calculations,
according to the folks at TI. It's equipped with
all the original calculator's features. The
application also solves accrued interest,
amortization, cost-sell-margin, depreciation and
time-value-of-money calculations, such as
annuities, mortgages, leases and savings.
Zevrix releases PDF Checkpoint, a PDF workflow automation...
Zevrix Solutions has released PDF Checkpoint 1.0, a PDF workflow
automation solution. It preflights, exports as images and splits
multiple PDF files.
It lets users review and analyze preflight results quickly and
easily, according to the folks at Zevrix. The program is equally
suitable to process hundreds of files as well as single PDF documents.
PDF Checkpoint checks fonts, colors, images and metadata of multiple
PDF files and lets users instantly identify potential problems
according to user-defined preflight profiles. Preflight profiles let
users check PDF for specific attributes, such as image resolution,
color model, PDF/X compliance and others. PDF Checkpoint can also
route PDF into success/error folders according to preflight results
and generate preflight report for each file.
With PDF Checkpoint, you can export PDF pages into TIFF, JPEG and
other formats as RGB, CMYK or Grayscale images. You can specify image
resolution and scale. You can also split multipage files into...
Werck BV releases Checkout 3.0 point-of-sale software for the Mac
Werck BV has updated Checkout (http://www.checkoutapp.com), its
point-of-sale software for the Mac, to version 3.0. The upgrade adds
barcode label printing, a revamped Product Manager, and an overall
speed boost.
You can now add barcodes to items, then print on Avery or Dymo
labels. Checkout 3 has a brand new interface to set up product
variations like sizes and colors. The number of definable product
properties is limitless, according to the folks at Werck.
Rebuilt from the ground up, Checkout's new product manager offers
better search functions and allows for editing and deletion of
multiple products at the same time. Version 3 makes it possible to
accept down payments and deposits on orders.
A typical retail sale is now completed faster and easier. With
improved support for barcode scanners and magnetic swipe readers,
Checkout now purportedly works even better in a high-volume business.
Checkout 3 is priced at US$399.
Werck has also launched a new Checkout web store, EnStore. It's...
BannerZest for Mac OS X gets 10 new banners, more, in version 2.0
Aquafadas (http://www.aquafadas.com) has updated BannerZest, a flash
presentation tool for professional and amateur web designers, to
version 2.0. The upgrade adds 10 new banner themes (of which three
are exclusive to the Pro version), the ability to add a sound file,
the ability to publish a banner in a single .swf file (Pro version
only), the addition of theme presets and the ability to publish
banners in an iPhone compatible format (Pro version only).
With BannerZest you can turn your pictures into a flash slideshow.
BannerZest doesn't require you to know or even possess Flash,
according to the folks at Aquafadas. It uses the concept of themes,
which work like templates.
BannerZest comes in two versions: a standard edition (US$49) and a
pro version ($129). The Pro version has all the features of the
standard version, plus some advanced editing options, workflow
enhancements and specific pro templates.
Customers who purchased BannerZest on or after Aug. 1 will receive a...
Wacom adds multi-touch to Bamboo
Wacom (http://www.wacom.com) has announced a new computer input
solution with the introduction of multi-touch in its new family of
Bamboo tablets. Bamboo tablets are USB peripherals that deliver input
to desktop or laptop computer users.
They now support multi-touch (finger-based input) with pen input.
Bamboo includes a family of five distinct tablets: touch-only,
pen-only and three versions of the pen and Multi-Touch combination.
They're compatible with Mac and Windows systems.
The new Bamboo family is comprised of three core products: Bamboo
Touch (US$59), Bamboo Pen ($69), and Bamboo Pen and Touch ($99). Two
additional tablets, Bamboo Craft ($129) and Bamboo Fun ($199) form
the rest of the line-up
NewerTech introduces FireWire 800-400 adapter
Newer Technology (http://www.newertech.com) has announced the
US$12.99 NewerTech FireWire 800-400 Adapter to provide plug and play
connection of FireWire 400 devices to the latest Mac Pro, MacBook Pro
17-inch, Mac mini, iMac, and other computers with FireWire 800-only
support.
The NewerTech FireWire 800-400 Adapter solves the dilemma of how to
use existing FireWire 400 devices with the latest Macs, as well as
eliminates the hassle of determining which cable type and length to
buy, according to the folks at NewerTech. The adapter plugs into a
computer's FireWire 800 port via a 9-pin male (FW800) connector. The
other end of the Adapter features a 6-pin female FireWire 400
connector.
Autodesk expands options for Mac users
Autodesk (http://www.autodesk.com) -- which specializes in 2D and 3D
design, engineering and entertainment software -- and Parallels,
which makes virtualization and automation software, have signed an
agreement to make Parallels Desktop for Mac Autodesk's preferred Mac
virtualization software.
Autodesk will now support use of AutoCAD software, AutoCAD LT
software, Autodesk Inventor Professional software, Autodesk 3ds Max
software, Autodesk 3ds Max Design software and the Autodesk Revit
software platform for building information modeling (BIM) on Mac OS X
via Parallels Desktop. Autodesk added official support for these
products on the Mac via Boot Camp earlier this year.
With the launch of the Autodesk Alias family of software for Mac OS X
earlier this year, Autodesk now offers six native Mac OS X
applications for the entertainment, multimedia and design industries,
including Autodesk SketchBook Pro, Autodesk Maya, Autodesk Mudbox and
Autodesk Stitcher Unlimited software.
Sassafras Software ships K2 6.2 with new tools for software cost
Sassafras Software (http://www.sassafras.com) has released a new
version (6.2) of K2 KeyAuditor & KeyServer with new tools for
optimizing, automating, and simplifying the management of software
assets throughout an enterprise.
K2 6.2 integrates new measurement metrics into application usage
tracking so that re-allocation of unused software licenses (and the
K2 client it- self) can become fully automatic based on usage
patterns. The set of built in reports can then be scrutinized for
trend analysis, migration planning, and for license contract renewal
negotiations. Many of the routine K2 client and license re-allocation
tasks will no longer require attention, resulting in greater
optimization of software budget and personnel resources, according to
John Tomeny, vic president of Business Development, Sassafras
Software.
K2 is a cross platform Software Asset Management (SAM) solution for
managing software license entitlements throughout an enterprise. It
tracks, controls, and reports...
Genius launches wooden speakers
Genius (http://www.geniusnetusa.com), a brand division of KYE
Systems, has announced a new addition to the company's line of
speaker systems, the SP-HF500A. It's an US$44.99 two-way,
high-fidelity, wood-enclosed system.
The SP-HF500A speakers utilize a three-inch speaker driver for
improved sound structure capable of delivering "crystal clear treble
and ground-rattling bass," according to the folks at Genius. The
speakers sport 14 watts of power and a burnished black panel.
There's a large button for power control and a tone button for timbre
adjustments. Additional features include an extra line-in jack to
connect an iPod, MP3 player, or CD player without disconnecting the
speakers from a computer, as well as a headphone jack for private
listening.
Strata Foto 3D CX 2 ships
Strata (http://www.strata.com), the company
adding the power of 3D to the designer's toolset,
today released Strata Foto 3D CX 2. This new
version of Foto 3D makes it even easier to create
3D models from photographs, allowing the use of
image sets taken from video as well as still
images. Foto 3D's patented technology has
revolutionized model creation of real-world
objects and version 2 takes this technology to
another level.
Strata Foto 3D CX allows the use of a standard
digital camera to capture real-world objects as
fully textured 3D models. Foto 3D is ideal for
difficult to model objects like organic shapes,
soft forms and hand made items. A plug-in for
Adobe's Photoshop is included which integrates
Foto 3D's model creation with Photoshop's image
and 3D model manipulation capabilities.
New in Strata Foto 3D CX 2 is the ability to use
images taken from a variety of sources, including
aerial photographs, frames taken from video, and
pictures of objects too large to fit within a...
MetaCommunications releases Workgroups 2010
MetaCommunications (http://www.meta-comm.com), a software developer
of cross-platform process management and productivity solutions for
the graphic arts industry, has releasedWorkgroups 2010, a major
upgrade to its collaborative process and productivity management
software suite for marketing, creative design, packaging and prepress
workgroups.
It's compatible with Mac OS X 10.4 and higher. Workgroups 2010 builds
upon its four core modules for project & workflow management,
document review & approval, document storage management, and
financial productivity management, while extending its capabilities
with hundreds of new features and improvements, according to Robert
Long, executive vice president of MetaCommunications. These new
features include a Document Organizer, a browser-based proofing tool,
and an integrated Developer Center community web site.
The Workgroups 2010 suite is available immediately. Free upgrades are
provided to customers who participate in the Meta...
Avid releases Digidesign Eleven Rack
Avid (http://www.avid.com) has released the
Digidesign Eleven Rack for guitar players. It's a
standalone hardware unit that combines a guitar
amp and effects processor with a computer
recording audio interface, to create a recording
and performance solution.
It will be available later this month at a
manufacturer's suggested retail price of
US$1,259. It's bundled with Pro Tools LE studio
mixing software.
Avid says that Eleven Rack provides guitarists
with three distinct solutions in one product that:
° Replicate everything guitarists love about
vintage and modern amplifiers without the hassle
of storing or maintaining them;
° Create the ability to record incredible guitar
tone without needing to re-record a great
performance due to bad tone;
° Reproduce tones captured in the studio in live
performances with unprecedented ease and
flexibility.
ezGear introduces ezVision interface for the iPod, iPhone
ezGear (http://www.ezgear.com) has introduced the ezVision Video
Glasses TH121 interface for the iPod and iPhone. They offer the
ability to watch any video on your iPod in a simulated bigger screen
format. The new ezVision for iPod plugs right into the bottom of your
iPod or iPhone and is "Made for iPod" and "Works with iPhone"
certified.
With the TH121, you can enjoy movies, TV shows, and music videos
stored on your iPod or iPhone on a larger format screen and in total
privacy, according to the folks at ezGear. The glasses are
lightweight, weighing four ounces, and have built-in earphones, a
rechargeable battery, and a cary bag.
The video glasses also come with a video adapters that can be used
with almost a DVD player or any videogame device, including XBox 360
video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and PlayStation
Portable, and PlayStation 2 computer entertainment systems.
The ezVision Video Glasses come in two models: ezVision G1 and
ezVision X4. The former offer a...
Recordare adds Finale 2010 support to Dolet 5 for Finale plug-in
Recordare LLC has released version 5 of its Dolet plug-in for the
Finale music notation program. The plug-ins serve as "universal
translators" between music notation applications.
The Dolet 5 for Finale plug-in reads and writes MusicXML 2.0 and Open
Score Format 1.0 files for translations available between music
notation programs. Dolet 5 for Finale adds support for Finale 2010,
including Finale 2010's new percussion and chord features.
What's more, it moves beyond the MusicXML support provided with
Finale 2010 by including support for the Broadway Copyist font
family. Dolet 5 for Finale also improves import from Sibelius 6
files, adding support for importing new features such as feathered
beaming, jazz articulations, and German chord symbols, according to
Recordare CEO Michael Good.
More than 30 new and improved features have been added in version 5,
compared to the previous version 4.8. MusicXML 2.0 features such as
part name accidentals and per-part measure numbering are now...
TeamViewer offers new collaborative tools for the Mac
TeamViewer (http://www.teamviewer.com), a provider of solutions for
online communication and collaboration, now offers professionals
desktop sharing with instant chat messaging and customized
QuickSupport for advanced communication on a Mac.
Further enabling online collaboration, TeamViewer offers enhanced
chat instant messaging for the Mac platform. Designed especially for
business communication, group chat is possible with multiple partners
able to share immediately and effectively. Status updates signal
partner availability while messages sent when partners are away will
be displayed when the user is available.
In addition, companies using Mac OS are now able to facilitate
customized sharing and support with TeamViewer's Custom QuickSupport
tool. Businesses can incorporate their company logo, colors and
individual text to create brand continuity when using TeamViewer
QuickSupport to access colleague, client or prospect computers
anywhere in the world.
All TeamViewer software...
'Take Control of Mac OS X Backups, Fourth Edition'...
The "Take Control of Mac OS X Backups"
(http://www.takecontrolbooks.com/backup-macosx) by Joe Kissell has
been updated to its fourth edition. The 196-page tome is available
for US$15.
Kissell offers advice "that goes far beyond the false security of
simply turning on Time Machine or copying a few files to CD." He says
the ebook helps readers pick the best backup strategy for their
needs, complete with an at-a-glance comparison of different backup
strategies (low-cost, easy, safest), along with advice for backing up
digital photos and other media.
The ebook has an appendix aimed at readers who want to create their
own backups using Unix on the Mac command line, explains how to
backup Sindows volume for those who run Windows on their Macs, and
comes with coupons for $30 off Data Backup and 10% off CrashPlan.
FirmTek releases Snow Leopard compatible storage drivers
FirmTek (http://www.firmtek.com) has announced that the
SeriTek/2SE2-E SeriTek/2SM2 storage adapters are fully Mac OS X
10.6.x ("Snow Leopard") compatible.
FirmTek also offers the SeriTek/2SE2-E PCI-Express eSATA host
adapter, which is compatible with all Mac Pro models and the late
2005 PowerMac G5 (11,2). This 2-port SATA II controller enables
Macintosh PCI-Express equipped desktop owners to add external,
native, eSATA ports to their computer. With the release of the new
FirmTek 5.4.x driver the SeriTek/2SE2-E is fully Snow Leopard
compatible with the Mac Pro.
The new series 5.4.x FirmTek driver is built from the ground up to
take advantage of Snow Leopard. It adds SMART application support and
full 32-bit or 64-bit "Snow Leopard" compatibility. However, it will
only recognize FirmTek controllers.
IntelliScanner Corp. releases IntelliScanner Classic for $99
IntelliScanner Corp. (http://www.intelliscanner.com) has announced
IntelliScanner Classic, an US$99 smart barcode scanner that
automatically organizes, books, movies, and media. By scanning the
retail barcode, IntelliScanner automatically identifies the items
users' scans using popular online media databases, pulling down the
title, creator, cover artwork, and more.
IntelliScanner's included media organization software lets you:
organize books, movies, music, and video games: create lists of
favorite titles, track lending, create virtual bookmarks, and
generate insurance reports for a safe deposit box. It works with Mac
OS X and Windows XP/Vista and requires an available USB port.
For teachers and students, IntelliScanner Classic is available at a
special price of just $79. IntelliScanner's built-in Smart Lists and
Web 2.0 sharing tools let educators share their classroom's media
collection online for access by students and parents at home. Plus,
IntelliScanner's free iPhone web app...
iPresentee extends iWeb Themes collection
iPresentee (http://www.ipresentee.com), the developer of add-ons for
Apple's iWork and iLife applications, has extended iWeb Themes 5.0 to
be used with Apple's Web site building application, iWeb. iWeb is
part of the iLife bundle. It includes five new excellent themes:
Beauty, Solid, Furniture, Lite and Trade.
Each iWeb theme has 11 templates instead of ordinary eight. iWeb
Themes 5.0 includes following templates: Welcome, About Me, Photos,
My Albums, Movie, Blog, Podcast, Blank, My Hobbies and News. iWeb
Themes 5.0 can be customized. Each theme incorporates a number of
different graphic elements which can be removed, moved and changed in
size, opacity or color. They contain several different page layouts.
The new iWeb themes are compatible with iWeb 2.0 and iWeb 3.0
versions. Each iWeb Theme is available for US$10. The set of five new
themes may be purchased for $30. Samples and more info about iWeb
Themes are available immediately at the iPresentee web site.
ATTO, LaCie team up for storage solutions for video, IT pros
Projectur (http://www.projecturf.com/), a provider of on-demand
project and collaboration management software designed for small to
medium-sized businesses, will be rolling out Projecturf 2.0 -- a new
project collaboration tool. And it's Mac compatible. Pricing starts
at US$29.99 per month.
Projecturf 2.0 maintains the web-based project management software's
signature navigational scheme and features, including unlimited file
storage with no cap on users or project managers, sections
specifically created for developers and designers, and almost no
learning curve, according to the folks at Projecturf. Version 2.0
purportedly takes advantage of the recent advances in browser-side
programming languages to deliver a fast product that eliminates
clicks and provides immediate feedback.
A new ticketing/bug tracking system that contains ticketing numbers,
open/closed ticket logs, timecard integration, and the ability to
upload screenshots. There will also be a section to store and share...
ATTO, LaCie team up for storage solutions for video, IT pros
ATTO Technology (http://www.attotech.com) and LaCie
(http://www.lacie.com) have announced an OEM (original equipment
manufacturer) partnership designed to deliver integrated SAS/SATA and
Fibre Channel storage solutions for digital video and IT customers.
Pairing enterprise storage systems and high-performance host
adapters, the new partnership will deliver two product combinations
-- the ATTO ExpressSAS R380 SAS/SATA host adapter combined with LaCie
12big Rack Serial, as well as the ATTO Celerity FC-42ES Fibre Channel
host adapter, and LaCie 12big Rack Fibre storage system. The
integrated storage solutions provide users with the ability to edit
multiple streams of uncompressed HD video, while delivering a stable
and robust RAID-protected storage infrastructure, according to Tim
Klein, president and CEO of ATTO Technology.
ATTO's ExpressSAS R380 combines x8 PCIe technology and 3Gb/s SAS
speeds to deliver RAID-protected connectivity to the 12big Rack
Serial. The ATTO Celerity FC-42ES...
Adobe releases Photoshop Elements 8 for the Mac
Adobe has announced Photoshop Elements 8
(http://www.adobe.com/products/photoshopelmac/) for Mac and Windows,
providing automated and intelligent photo-editing technology across
both platforms. The newest version of the consumer photo-editing
software is the perfect complement to iPhoto for consumers who want
to go beyond the basics and tell amazing stories with their photos,
says Doug Mack, vice president and general manager of Consumer and
Hosted Solutions at Adobe.
For media management, Mac users have access to all the features in
Adobe Bridge CS4 software, which provides quick organization with a
custom viewing workspace and full-screen preview with one-click
close-ups. Keyword tags and a variety of search options are designed
to simplify photos quickly. Photoshop Elements 8 for Mac now includes
all of the intelligent photo-editing options as the Windows version.
In addition to Photomerge Exposure, Recompose and Quick Fix previews,
Photoshop Elements 8 for Mac features Scene...
Soundboard for Mac OS X gets Japanese localization
Ambrosia Software has updated Soundboard for Mac OS X
(http://www.ambrosiasw.com/dl/soundboard") to version 1.0.3. The
upgrade adds Japanese localization and fixes a bug relating to
registration on Mac OS X 10.6 ("Snow Leopard").
Like cart machines in broadcast radio studios, Soundboard lets users
map sound effects, audio clips, or musical accompaniment to keys on
the Mac keyboard, triggered with a single tap. When you import audio
into Soundboard, it is converted to Apple Lossless format so playback
will be instant. According to the folks at Ambrosia, you'll be able
to find your desired sounds at a glance, and triggering them will
quickly become automatic.
Triggers can be renamed at will, color-coded, and shuffled around the
board to suit your needs. You can assign up to 32 sounds per tab, and
create as many tabs as you need, and you can share 'boards with other
Soundboard users.
Soundboard's 32 triggers can also be used to build custom mashups
from your onboard audio. You can create...
Kensington introduces sound-amplified iPhone cradle, mobile
Kensington Computer Group (http://www.kensington.com) has introduced
a new car mount with amplified sound for use with any iPhone
navigation application. The US$39.99 mount allows iPhone users to
easily navigate while driving, as well as double the volume of
turn-by-turn directions from navigation applications.
The Kensington Windshield/Vent Car Mount with Sound Amplified Cradle
for iPhone acoustically increases speaker volume without additional
battery drain to the iPhone, allowing drivers to navigate while
keeping their eyes on the road, according to Federic Frappeau,
Kensington global product manager. The sounds amplifying cradle
mounts in seconds to a vehicle windshield or vent and holds an iPhone
securely even on the roughest terrain, he adds. Compatible with any
navigation application for iPhone, the cradle will be carried in all
Apple stores beginning in early November 2009.
Kensington has also introduced eight new products to help users boost
the everyday performance of their...
Laptop Burka releases new anti-glare technology
Laptop Burka Inc. (http://www.laptopburka.com) has announced a new
product line released on the heels of the debut of their other new
invention, the Laptop Burka. The US$16.99 Geek Sheet offers a way to
work outside with a portable space that reduces glare by 100 percent.
"It's similar to the Laptop Burka," says Marc Johnson, owner and
inventor. "The Geek Sheet is breathable, light weight, and mobile."
It's white with a dark interior, reflects sunlight and creates a cool
work space. The Geek Sheet is designed to let you work or watch
movies in your own portable private space, Johnson says.
Equinux releases Barbeque for the iPhone
Equinux has released Barbeque for the iPhone and iPod touch. It's
available for US$0.99 at the Apple App Store
(http://www.equinux.com/goto/barbecueforiphone).
Barbeque lets you virtually grill on your Apple device. Barbecue
grill-meisters can prepare their steaks, sausages, ribs and kebabs as
well as select the perfect place setting. User's can even choose the
perfect tablecloth before they serve their creations to friends via
Mail as a humorous greeting card, Twitter or Facebook.
BCC 6.0.4 AE update offers enhanced Premiere Pro support
Boris FX (http://www.borisfx.com) has released Boris Continuum
Complete 6.0.4, an update of the . It features new animated presets
for 3D objects, a revamped optical stabilizer and enhanced support
for Adobe Premiere Pro.
BCC Optical Stabilizer, which automatically smoothes or completely
eliminates shaky camera motion, now provides more feedback during the
image analysis process. In addition, a new Autoscale option
automatically transform scales a locked down clip so that it fills
the frame or composite window.
Continuum Complete is an expansive plug-in filter set that lets you
create a variety of effects. It has nearly 200 filters, including
advanced keying, matting, compositing, image processing, distortion,
temporal effects and motion tracking.
BBC 6.0.4 AE is a free update for BCC 6.x users. Users of older
versions can upgrade for US$295. For new users the cost is $995.
.com Solutions introduces FmPro Migrator Platinum Edition 5.25
.com Solutions has introduced FmPro Migrator Platinum Edition 5.25
wth Microsoft Access to FileMaker Pro Migration License Feature
The recently introduced Access to FmPro migration feature previously
added to FmPro Migrator Developer Edition has been the most
successful product launch ever for the FmPro Migrator product line,
according to the folks at .com Solutions. No, in response to customer
requests, FmPro Migrator Platinum Edition has been introduced with
simplified product licensing for Access to FileMaker database
migrations.
FmPro Migrator Platinum Edition includes all of the features of FmPro
Migrator Developer Edition, but also includes a license key for
enabling Access to FileMaker migrations for an unlimited number of
Access database files for the duration of the license key. The
included Access to FmPro license key processes up to 250
forms/reports for a one-year period of time (an US$2,500 value).
For more info about the Access to FmPro Migration feature, including
an...
Red Giant Software releases Magic Bullet Mojo
Red Giant Software has introduced Magic Bullet Mojo, aproduct that
provides a way to make your footage look like an action movie. It
works with primary color correction tools like Magic Bullet Colorista.
Magic Bullet Mojo supports After Effects, Premiere Pro, Final Cut
Pro, Motion, and Avid. The plug-in is available for US$99 here:
http://www.redgiantsoftware.com
Modern blockbusters often use a subtle coloring effect to warm up
actors' skin tones while backgrounds and shadows get a cool blue
treatment. The trick, however, is to do it while keeping the talent
in focus. That's where Magic Bullet Mojo comes in. It has special
controls for maintaining proper skin tones, full floating-point
rendering, and fast render speeds.
Also, the Magic Bullet Suite has been updated to include Mojo.
However, it's still priced at US$799.
Tri-Edre announces TapTap for Mac OS X
Tri-Edre has released Taptap
(http://www.tri-edre.com/english/taptap.html) for
Mac OS X 10.5 ("Leopard") and higher. It's an
US$9.95 utility available at any time to launch
applications, files, and URLs and access notes
and addresses.
To use it you tap twice on the Command key (or
the shortcut of your choice) to access any of
your applications, files and folders you
selected, your browser bookmarks or cards from
your Address Book, your password protected notes,
etc.
According to the folks at Tri-Edre, Taptap has
been designed to facilitate access to data
contained in the Mac and includes a variety of
tricks such as:
° The possibility to add descriptions and keywords to applications;
° The presence of a disk browser, and contextual
menus displaying the contents of folders and
allowing access to files and contents;
° The ability to add notes protected by a password.
A free demo version is available. It gives you
access to all features, but for a limited time.
Native Instruments releases version 1.2 of Traktor Scratch Pro,
Native Instruments recently released Traktor Pro 1.2, a free software
update for the latest generation of its digital DJ products including
the Duo and LE versions. The update adds extended performance
effects, state-of-the-art keylock quality, advanced controller
display support and more.
The comprehensive performance effects section of Traktor Pro has been
further expanded in version 1.2. The number of independent effect
sections has been doubled from two to four, now allowing users to
assign different multi-FX configurations to each of the four
full-featured decks. The list of effect types in Traktor Pro has also
been expanded further with the introduction of the new Formant
Filter, Peak Filter and the Beat Slicer.
Keylock quality has been improved once more in Traktor Pro 1.2 with
the addition of the latest Z-Plane Elastique timestretching
technology. The new version also utilizes the functions of the
Pioneer CDJ-400 and Denon HC-4500 controller hardware including
display support...
LinkOptimizer Light for InDesign ready for Snow Leopard
Zevrix Solutions (http://zevrix.com) has released LinkOptimizer Light
4.1.2, an update of its low-cost version of its workflow automation
solution for Adobe InDesign. The upgrade is compatible with Mac OS X
10.6 ("Snow Leopard"). It also addresses several performance and
stability issues related to InDesign clipping paths, link status and
international system support.
LinkOptimizer Light allows to reduce InDesign job size and speed up
processing by eliminating excess image data and performing essential
image adjustments. The new version has more than 20 new features and
improvements, including settings presets, detailed logs and a
redesigned user interface.
LinkOptimizer Light 4 can be purchased from the Zevrix Solutions web
site for U$159.95 , as well as from authorized resellers. A demo is
available for download. LinkOptimizer Light works with Mac OS X
10.4.2-10.5 and InDesign CS-CS4.
WestNest launches BabyBuilder for the iPhone, iPod touch
WaveNest Innovations has released BabyBuilder, an iPhone and iPod
touch "baby-building" app that can be shared by email or with social
networking sites such as Facebook, Twitter and Flickr. It's available
for US$1.99 at the Apple App Store (http://www.itunes.com/appstore/).
BabyBuilder allows any two people to get an animated glimpse into
what their future or fantasy infant baby might look like. Its core
technology purportly uses complex facial mapping and recognition
algorithms to generate the most realistic looking babies possible
from digital photos.
The application's mapping and recognition technology focuses on key
facial features such as the ears, eyes, nose, mouth and chin, as well
as the relative distance between those features to calculate a
personal animated version of a baby for two people. Anyone can build
a baby with any pair of uploaded photos captured with an iPhone's
built-in camera or previously saved to the device's photo library.
POP3it Pro for Mac OS X upgraded to version 4.1.6
Comm-Unity Networking Systems has released POP3it Pro 4.1.6, an
update of the email downloading and importing plug-in for FileMaker
Pro. The upgrade fixes issues with decoding and understanding emails,
fixes issues with checking email accounts, and adds functionality to
the Full Source functions.
POP3it Pro allows you to connect to a POP3 Email Server and download
email directly into your FileMaker Pro database. The plug-in also
allows you to import email directly from the mailbox storage files of
email clients like Thunderbird, Eudora, and Apple Mail.
POP3it Pro requires FileMaker Pro 7.0v3 and above to function
properly. The plug-in won't load under previous versions of FileMaker
Pro. If you have FileMaker Pro 7.0 but haven't updated to 7.0v3, you
can obtain a free update from FileMaker's web site. POP3it Pro
requires Mac OS X 10.3.9 or above. The plug-in is Universal Binary so
runs natively on both PowerPC and Intel Macs.
A demo version can be downloaded from the Pop3it Pro Pro...
Seagate launches desktop hard drive with serial ATA 6-bit/second
Seagate Technology (http://www.seagate.com) has begun global
shipments of what is says is the world's fastest, largest-capacity
mainstream desktop hard drive -- the Barracuda XT, a 7200RPM product
featuring 2TB of storage capacity and a Serial ATA (SATA) 6GB/second
interface.
The 3.5-inch desktop drive, the industry's first to feature a SATA
6Gb/s interface, meets the capacity demands of gaming, digital
video-environments and other storage-hungry desktop computing
applications while delivering the highest performance in its class,
according to Dave Mosley, executive vice president of sales and
marketing at Seagate. The introduction of the Barracuda XT drive
marks the shift to the next generation of desktop computing speed as
Seagate doubles the storage bandwidth of current computers, he adds.
The Barracuda XT product, a four-platter drive featuring an areal
density of 368 Gigabits per square inch, delivers burst speeds of up
to 6 Gigabits per second and maintains backward...
Que Publishing releases new Snow Leopard books
Que Publishing is releasing three new Snow Leopard books plus a new
book for Windows users switching to a Mac.
"Mac OS X Snow Leopard On Demand"
(http://www.informit.com/title/9780789739858) by Steve Johnson offers
tightly focused coverage of the techniques Mac users need most on a
day-to-day basis in a visual with step-by-step format. It's US$29.95.
"Mac OS X Snow Leopard In Depth"
(http://www.informit.com/title/9780789742292) is for any experienced
Mac student seeking to deepen their understanding and master the
features of the new Snow Leopard version of Mac OS X. Mac OS X expert
Paul McFedries has packed this $39.95 book with useful
intermediate-to-advanced level information.
"Easy Mac OS X Snow Leopard"
(http://www.informit.com/title/9780789740441) is a step-by-step,
$24.99 book by to provide instant access to the tasks
beginner-to-intermediate users need to master. Like all books in the
Easy series, it's designed to teach visually: readers never have to
work their way through...
Gefen announces two new DisplayPort products
Connectivity solutions provider Gefen (http://www.gefen.com) has
announced the availability of two new plug and play methods of system
integration among computer systems using DisplayPort connectivity.
The US$149 DVI to Mini-DisplayPort Adapter is designed for computer
users who want to use a standard DVI port to connect a new flat panel
display using mini-DisplayPort connectivity, such as the 24-inch
Apple Cinema Display. The DVI to Mini-DisplayPort Adapter can be used
to connect a second display in mirrored mode to extend the desktop.
The DisplayPort KVM Switcher ($399) is a keyboard/video/mouse
switcher that offers a method of accessing any two computers from the
same display, with the same USB 2.0 keyboard/mouse control. Switching
between computers takes place using the IR remote or front-panel
selector. It has support for high definition video resolutions, USB
2.0 peripherals and an audio output.
DVD±RW Drive
LaCie (http://www.lacie.com) has updated its
Portable DVD±RW Drive. Now with a sleek black
finish, the drive includes new multimedia burning
solutions. Featuring two versions, users can
choose from the multimedia burning solution for
Macs or PCs.
The Windows version comes with Creator Suite 10,
while the combined Mac and Windows version comes
with Toast 9 Basic, as well as Creator Suite 10.
Additionally, the drive is USB bus-powered so
only one cable is needed to start burning CDs and
DVDs. The 8x drive is less than an inch tall and
weighs under a pound. It fits into a bag,
backpack, or briefcase.
The LaCie Portable DVD±RW drive is equipped with
LightScribe, a technology that allows you to burn
silkscreen-quality labels directly onto CDs and
DVDs with a laser instead of a printer. The LaCie
Portable DVD±RW will be available through the
LaCie Store Online, LaCie Reseller+ and LaCie
Corner, starting at the suggested retail price of
US$89.99.
Iconfactory launches new 'web' stock icon collections
The Iconfactory has released royalty-free web collections at its
Stockicons site (http://stockicons.com/collections). They have
concepts like chat, security, news, polls, forum and others.
The web collections come with 26 unique icons and cost US$89 each.
This latest collection is currently available in five styles and will
be coming to other styles in the future.
Like all sets from Stockicons, they include sizes from 16?16 pixels
to 512?512 pixels in six formats as well as scalable vector files for
high resolution needs. Also included are free trial downloads.
Speck expands line of notebook bags, backpacks, sleeves
Speck (http://www.speckproducts.com), a designer
and manufacturer of cases and bags for popular
consumer electronics,has unveiled its newest
family of notebook bags, packs and sleeves. This
new generation of notebook carrying solutions
features all-new colors, patterns and a host of
design upgrades and enhancements. The new bags
and packs include the:
° CorePack FLY Airport Checkpoint Friendly
Notebook Messenger Bag, which holds up to 15-inch
notebooks. It's an US$89.95 TSA/airport
checkpoint friendly notebook bag. Adhering to the
strict standards set by the TSA, the hinged
design enables the bag to butterfly open to allow
the storage and notebook compartments to separate
and lay flat during screening.
° AftPack Notebook Backpack ($89.95), which holds
up to 17-inch notebooks. It was designed to offer
complete on-the-go storage and notebook
protection. The backpack sports contoured, padded
shoulder straps with tuck-away chest straps,
vented body padding, and a quick-access notebook...
Griffin Technology releases MyPhones
Griffin Technology (http://www.griffintechnology.com) has announced
MyPhones volume limiting headphones for kids. These over-the-ear
headphones are customizable for children aged 3 to 12. They'll be
available in early October for US$39.95.
The two most important factors in good ear health are noise level and
listening duration. At MyPhones' core is an 85-decibel
volume-limiting circuit. MyPhones' design allows for the same great
sound quality as other Griffin headphones, but at an ear-friendly
listening level, according to Paul Griffin, founder and CEO of
Griffin Technology.
Why 85 dB? This is the level that pediatric audiology and safety
agencies regard as ideal for kids, Griffin says. Combined with a
break in listening every hour or two, kids' ears are well protected
from damage.
MyPhones are supra-aural, sitting over the ear with no in-ear piece.
The design has soft rubber ear cushions and an adjustable band. An
1/8-inch headphone plug connects to the headphone jacks most commonly...
Mariner Software releases Mariner Calc 2.0 for iPhone
Mariner Software (http://www.marinersoftware.com/) has released
Mariner Calc 2.0 for the iPhone. It's now available for US$6.95 at
the Apple App Store. It's a free update for registered users of
version 1.x.
All of the new features in Mariner Calc 2.0 have been tested and
function on the iPhone 3.0 and 3.1 operating system. Those features
include: named range support; find and replace; sort ascending or
descending; a password protected WiFi web based file server; settings
for user info; settings for email options; settings for startup
behavior; and a new temp file system for quick saves of large files.
Mariner Calc takes advantage of almost two decades of spreadsheet
experience on the Mac, according to Michael Wray, president of
Mariner Software. It also introduces the ability to view and edit
native Microsoft files (.xls format Excel 97 and up) on the iPhone.
Mariner Calc includes 24 math functions, 18 finance functions, 17
trig functions, 13 statistics functions, 14 lookup functions...
Epson announces two new home theater projectors
Epson (http://www.epson.com) has announced two new home theater
projectors -- the MovieMate 60 and the PowerLite Home Cinema
705HD. The former will be available in October for US$699; the latter
for around $750.
The Epson MovieMate 60 is the newest addition to Epson's line of
combo projectors, featuring a projector, CD/DVD player and speakers
all built-in. Just plug into an outlet and watch movies or live TV,
play videogames, display iPod videos or show a photo slideshow -- all
up to eight times larger than a 40-inch widescreen TV. With a 60
percent brighter lamp than previous models, Epson MovieMate 60 can be
enjoyed inside or outside, in a dark setting or even a lighted room.
The Epson PowerLite Home Cinema 705HD is designed for movies,
videogames, TV, sporting events, and even photos in 720p high
definition. It features 2,500 lumens of brightness and features a
variety of inputs, including HDMI.
Tidy Up ready for Snow Leopard, iTunes 9
Hyberbolic Software (http://www.hyperbolicsoftware.com) has released
Tidy Up! 2.1.0, the latest version of their disk, file and folder
processing utility for Mac OS X. Tidy Up! can find duplicate files
and packages using any criteria. The new version adds compatibility
with iTunes 9 and Mac OS X 10.6 ("Snow Leopard").
Tidy Up 2.1.0 requires Mac OS X 10.5 ("Leopard") or higher. Upgrades
from version 1.x are $20.
Check Off 4.0.2 addresses Snow Leopard, export issues
Second Gear has released Check Off 4.0.2
(http://www.secondgearsoftware.com/checkoff/), an update to its to-do
list app that sits in your Mac's menu bar. The update fixes several
issues related to exporting large lists of data and Mac OS X 10.6
("Snow Leopard") incompatibilities.
Check Off is a minimal to-do list that sits in your Mac's menu bar.
Simply click the check mark, and your personal to-do list will drop
down. For instance, you can create a grocery list, track your school
work or just the day's upcoming activities.
Check Off offers a 10-item trial for users to test the software.
Licenses are available for
Mophie debuts Hip Holster line of leather cases for its Juice
Mophie (http://www.mophie.com) has unveiled the new Hip Holster line
of premium leather cases designed to protect every model of the Juice
Pack for the iPhone, iPhone 3G, and 3GS. Designed from leather, each
Hip Holster is both extra durable and soft to the touch, says Rosse
Howe, sales and product development director at Mophie.
The belt clip is designed to free up pocket space for other items,
and the quick draw feature allows access for one-handed removal. The
mophie Hip