Bombax (http://www.bombax.com), a new Mac OS X web application development platform, has been released today in beta form. It's been developed specifically for the Mac OS X operating system and is the only web platform to take full advantage of Cocoa, Apple's highly regarded, Objective-C based programming framework for Mac OS X, according to Dominic Blais, creator of Bombax. It significantly improves web development productivity and is efficient -- outperforming other platforms such as Java EE, ASP.NET and LAMP in a series of benchmark tests, he adds. "If you have developed an iPhone or OS X application, then you already have the skills and experience necessary to create Bombax web applications," Blais says. Bombax also delivers advantages for administrators with a sophisticated, easy to use server administration application that makes it straightforward to install and configure web applications developed using Bombax, he adds.

Yellow Lemon Software has updated FolderGlance (http://www.scsc.no/products/folderglance/), a utility for browsing files and folders directly from the Finder's contextual menus, to version 2.6. The new version adds two major new features: Hover Previews and full Finder context menu integration. Hover Previews enable users to automatically preview files while browsing the context menu created by FolderGlance, without using the keyboard. By allowing the mouse cursor to linger over a file shown in one of FolderGlance's context menus for a brief amount of time, a preview automatically appears on-screen. This new preview-mode is designed for quickly browsing a collection of pictures, documents or other files, without resorting to using the keyboard. Previous versions of FolderGlance have resorted to placing the Finder's context menu items in its own submenu. As of version 2.6, FolderGlance and the Finder's own items can coexist in the same menu, easing the use of the Finder's own items and...

Take Control has released "Take Control of Easy Mac Backups" by author and backup guru Joe Kissell. He explains how to create a complete backup system for Mac OS X 10.5 ("Leopard") or 10.6 ("Snow Leopard") that includes versioned backups, a bootable duplicate, and an offsite backup. Readers will learn how to identify backup hardware that best matches their needs and budget, and find instructions for using Time Machine as well as alternatives for nine situations where Time Machine lacks crucial features. Kissell walks readers through every step of the way, from setting up a backup drive or Time Capsule to explaining how to recover precious data in case of a deleted or corrupted file, a dead drive, or a stolen laptop. The 108-page book costs US$10 in PDF or $19.99 in print and is available for immediate download at http://www.takecontrolbooks.com/backup-easy-mac Kissell has written numerous ebooks in the Take Control series. He's also a senior contributor to "Macworld" and senior editor...

Black Cat Systems (http://www.blackcatsystems.com) announces that RF Toolbox version 3.8.0 has been released The latest version adds a resistor calculator, which computes the required series and parallel combinations for a desired resistance. RF Toolbox is an antenna design package for amateur (ham) radio operators, and other radio enthusiasts, as well as those in the communications professions. It's available for Mac OS X and Windows. RF Toolbox costs US$19.99; a demo is available for download.

Delkin (http://www.delkin.com) has expanded its lineup of CompactFlash card storage by announcing four new 420X PRO cards capable of transfer speeds up to 63MB/second. The new UDMA enabled flash memory comes with a lifetime warranty, and is available in capacities of 8GB, 16GB, 32GB and 64GB. Every card is manufactured with high grade NAND flash, advanced controller design, and quality control guidelines based on ISO:9001 standards, according to Eric Findley, Delkin's Customer Service supervisor. Additionally, built-in ECC (Error Correction Code) automatically detects and corrects any errors that might occur during data transfer. Delkin's 420X CF cards are fully compliant with current CompactFlash specifications with support for Ultra DMA (UDMA) mode 6. These high-speed cards are able to instantaneously store high-resolution images and HD video.

Monkeybread Software (http://www.mbsplugins.de/) has started plug-in development for REAL Server, the SQL database sever from REALsoftware. In this very first version of our plugin, they have functions: ° SoundExMBS(text as string) as string; returns soundex string for the given text; ° RemoveAccentsMBS(text as string) as string; returns text without accents. for example é to e; ° RemoveAccentsCaseInsensitiveMBS(text as string) as string; returns text without accents. for example é to E and Ä to A; ° ReadBlobMBS(data as blob, path as string) as blob; returns the blob if it is not null or reads the file from the given path and returns the content as blob; ° WriteBlobMBS(data as blob, path as string) as string; writes the blob to the given file path. On success returns the path. On failure returns error. Path must be native path and should only contain ASCII characters. This plug-in is still in development and can be used for free until March 31. It's been tested with REALserver 2009...

Just Mobile (http://www.just-mobile.com) has released two new Mac products: the Mtable and the AluPad. The Just Moble Mtable is a is an US$79.99 solid stand, designed to let you slide a MacBook or MacBook Pro underneath and put a Cinema Display on top. You can also put iMac or MacBook on it and store your keyboard below. Made of 100% aluminum, it matches the metal finish on the Mac computers. The back structure is designed for better air circulation. The Alupad is a $49.99 mouse pad with an anodized aluminum surface ensuring lasting durability with style. The pad supports all optical mice for precise movements. The sleek design complements Mac desktops and laptops. What's more, non-slip feet keeps Alupad staying secure on your desk.

WoodWing (http://www.woodwing.com) has released its Enterprise 7 Publishing System. Unveiled and demonstrated during IFRA 2009, Enterprise 7 comes with a variety of improvements for magazine, newspaper, book and corporate publishers, says Hans Janssen, CEO of WoodWing Software. The Enterprise 7 publishing system is backed by new versions of Content Station (WoodWing's multichannel publishing tool for content producers) and the Smart Connection plug-ins for Adobe InDesign and InCopy. The focus of the version 7 release has been on new Search 2.0 functionality, refinement of cross-media and social media publishing, as well as usability improvements and extended platform support. "Content Station has been designed to play a pivotal role in the publishing process," says Erik Schut, President of WoodWing. "The editorial staff, often burdened with assorted systems to get content published to both print and online channels, will see Content Station as a relief. All relevant activities -...

Slacker (http://www.Slacker.com) has announced the coming addition of ABC News to the Slacker Personal Radio service for the Mac, web, iPhone, iPod touch, a Slacker-enabled TV and other devices. Slacker listeners also have access to music, artist profiles, album reviews and album cover art. Slacker will also feature segments from programs, including "Good Morning America" anchored by Robin Roberts, George Stephanopoulos, Juju Chang and Sam Champion, "Nightline" anchored by Terry Moran, Cynthia McFadden and Martin Bashir and more. In addition to featuring top quality news stories, the ABC News station will enable Slacker listeners to skip over segments, similar to the song skipping on music stations, for a more personalized experience. Listeners to the free Slacker Basic Radio service will be able to try the news service for a limited time at no cost. Slacker Radio Plus subscribers will have unlimited access to the new content. Slacker Personal Radio enables listeners to create their...

Technocel (http://www.technocel.com) has announced their latest line of cases for iPhone, Palm and BlackBerry users including Slider Skins, the Holster/Shield Combo and the Rib-Cage. Providing a stylish design that blends into your handset. These cases are currently available for US$19.99 (Slider Skins), $39.99 (Holster/Shield Combo) and MSRP $29.99 (Rib-Cage Shields). The Slider Skins feature a high gloss water resistant smooth material. They'll be available in a variety of colors and designs for the iPhone 3G, iPhone 3GS, Palm Pixi and most Blackberry phones. The Holster/Shield Combo combines a hard-plastic accent shield with a matching holster for Blackberry Curve 2 and Storm 2 phones. Both pieces come wrapped in your choice of two materials, leather or carbon fiber. The Rib-Cage Shields are high impact plastic shields featuring interchangeable faceplates for protecting the Blackberry Curve 2. The shield body is available in either transparent or soft touch black and the...

LaCie (http://www.lacie.com) has announced the LaCie CooKey and LaCie WhizKey, design by 5.5 Designers. The new USB flash keys are modeled after the LaCie iamaKey. Both are made with "sturdy" metal, making the surfaces tough and dependable, according to Minh Le, marketing director for Lacie. Additionally, the Gold SIP connector on the USB keys are both water- and scratch- resistant, making them some of the thinnest and most durable flash drive choices on the market, Le adds. The LaCie CooKey and LaCie WhizKey offer more than a resilient surface and up to 32GB of storage. What's more, they integrate an extra 4GB of online storage through Wuala (http://www.wuala.com. Now LaCie offers up to 4GB for two years on all LaCie flash keys -- and 10GB of Wuala online storage for one year in combination with its hard disk storage products. The LaCie CooKey and WhizKey will be available in 4GB, 8GB, 16GB, and 32GB capacities through the LaCie Online Store, LaCie Reseller+, and LaCie Corner,...

Notable Solutions, a developer of distributed content capture and workflow solutions, has added support for Lexmark MFPs to its AutoStore product family. According to Mike Morper, NSi's vice president of marketing, AutoStore, a server-based application which orchestrates the capture and secure delivery of paper and electronic documents into business applications, delivers the following functionality to 24 models of Lexmark MFPs: ° Scans to workflow, email or business applications -- including over a dozen leading content management systems; ° Scans once and delivers to multiple destinations; ° Personalizes scanning, workflow and output options based on user authentication; ° Audits scanning operations for security, regulatory compliance and efficiency; ° Automates document indexing by recognizing bar codes, handwriting or machine-printed characters; ° Recognizes full text and convert documents into PDF, Microsoft Office file formats and more. AutoStore 5.0 supports 10 devices...

IDAPT (http://www.idaptweb.com), a Spanish company specializing in mobile energy technology, is announcing its portable charging systems product line for 2010. The three models in the IDAPT line -- i4, i3, and i2 -- will be showcased at this year's Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. IDAPT charging stations have an interchangeable tips system that allows users to charge up to four devices at once without the mess of four different tangled wires, or the need for more than one outlet plug. The i4, which is the highlight of the product line, has four points of charge, including a USB port. The i3 and i2 offer three and two points, respectively, and use the same interchangeable tips as the i4. The IDAPT interchangeable tips are compatible with over 3,500 devices (Apple, Garmin, Blackberry, Sony, Nintendo, etc.). They also sport a two-button "quick release" feature to the tips, which allows for safe and easy ejection, according to Jeremy Patay of IDAPT. Tthe IDAPT universal charger...

Western Digital has introduced its fastest My Book external hard drive ever. The new My Book 3.0 desktop external drives are among the first devices certified with the SuperSpeed USB 3.0 interface. With an interface that's up to 10 times faster than the previous-generation USB 2.0 interface, the high-performance My Book 3.0 drive significantly reduces the time it takes to open and save large files, according to Dale Pistilli, vice president of marketing for WD's branded products group. Offered standalone, or in a kit that includes a USB 3.0 PCIe adapter card, the 1TB My Book 3.0 drive is available now at select retailers and http://www.shopwd.com. The 2TB model is expected later this week. The SuperSpeed USB 3.0 interface on My Book 3.0 drives provides transfer rates of up to five gigabits-per-second, allowing users to open and save files up to 4.7 times faster than USB 2.0. The new My Book 3.0 drive is compliant with the USB-IF SuperSpeed USB 3.0 standard to provide compatibility...

AppZapper.com has updated AppZapper (http://www.appzapper.com) -- which lets you uninstall virtually any application, widget, preference pane and plug-in by drag and drop -- to version 2.0. The update sports a fresh new design for Mac OS X 10.6 ("Snow Leopard"). AppZapper works with Mac OS X 10.4 and higher. Individuals can purchase AppZapper for US$12.95, and a new Family Pack registers all members of the same household for $18. A demo version allows you to zap five times prior to purchase.

Lexar Media (http://www.lexar.com), a provider of memory products for digital media, has launched its Echo line of flash-based, backup drives: the Lexar Echo SE and Lexar Echo ZE. The line is designed to protect valuable data on netbook and notebook computers. The Echo SE is a portable drive that plugs into a computer's USB port to perform automatic backup and transfer of files, at read speeds up to 28MB/second and write speeds up to 10MB/s. The Echo ZE, with its low-profile size and plug-and-stay design, provides a means to automatically back up essential file. Both drives are Mac and Windows compatible. They include built-in Echo backup software. Features include targeted file backup, which stores only specified files and reduces wasted disk space, and file versioning, which backs up a history of files and allows the retrieval of previous versions. Additionally, the software offers optional AES 128-bit encryption, enabling protection in the event of drive loss. The Echo SE backup...

iLuv (http://www.i-luv.com) has debuted the Tatz, a new line of headphones and earphones. Each series includes three headphone and four earphone models. The "Impressionz" series sports a red colored option for those who like to stand out of the crowd. The "Broken Heartz" series is for girls who want to rock out in pink hues. The "Scarz" series is a black colored option for the tough but cool music lover. Tatz will be available starting in late January.

Apple says that more than two billion apps have been downloaded from the Apple App Store (http://www.itunes.com/appstore/), the largest applications store in the world. There are now more than 85,000 apps available to the more than 50 million iPhone and iPod touch customers worldwide and over 125,000 developers in Apple's iPhone Developer Program. "The rate of App Store downloads continues to accelerate with users downloading a staggering two billion apps in just over a year, including more than half a billion apps this quarter alone," says Apple CEO Steve Jobs. "The App Store has reinvented what you can do with a mobile handheld device, and our users are clearly loving it." Today, iPhone and iPod touch customers in 77 countries worldwide can choose from an incredible range of apps in 20 categories, including games, business, news, sports, health, reference and travel.

iHome (http://www.ihomeaudio.com) will announce new products for its Studio Series line at this week's Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas. The new iP2 Home Audio System for iPhone/iPod and the iP49 Portable Rechargeable Audio System with Alarm Clock & FM Radio for iPhone/iPod are the next wave of products to incorporate DPS technology, giving users new hardware options while maintaining the same high standard of audio quality set by the original Studio Series offering, the award-winning, says Evan Stein, vice president of marketing, iHome. The iP2 and iP49 are equipped with the patented Bongiovi Acoustics DPS technology. Stein says it's a complex, chip-based algorithm, custom-tuned to each and every product. The processor involved is active, meaning it constantly scans the program material in real time and effectively improves transients and harmonics that results in amazing highs, lows and clarity across all frequencies and volume levels. . The Studio Series product...

Technocel (http://www.technocel.com), an accessory solution, has announced the T360 Bluetooth Headset, an entry-level headset featuring Bluetooth version 2.1 technology for cell phone users. The T360 will be available starting Jan.30, at a manufacturer's suggested retail price of US$39.99. Small and lightweight in size, the T360 is constructed with a black high-gloss finish. It purportedly offers five hours of talk time and 150 hours of standby time. It's packaged with ear gels of multiple sizes. The T350 offers call waiting, answer, reject and end functions. Plus, Technocel offers a free technical support line.

Sanus Systems (http://www.sanus.com) -- a provider of audio/video mounts, furnishings and consumer electronics accessories -- has added pivoting HDMI cables to its Sanus Elements product offering. The cables are y available in 2.5, 5 and 10-foot lengths. Sanus Elements ELM402-G1, ELM405-G1 and ELM410-G1 Pivoting HDMI Cables offer a feature not found on standard HDMI cables -- a connector that pivots 180 degrees. This is designed to make it easy to connect to hard-to-reach ports in tight places and behind TVs mounted on low-profile wall mounts. The connector is less than one inch deep. It's gold plated to optimize signal transfer for the highest quality audio and video. The cables are made from a flexible material that bends during installation. The cables are available for a list price of $29.99 (ELM402-G1), $39.99 (ELM405-G1) and $49.99 (ELM410-G1). Sanus will be showing the HDMI Cables at this week's Consumer Electronics Show.

be.ez (http://www.be-ez) has launched a range of sleeves for Wacom tablets. Designed for the Wacom Intuos4 and Bamboo ranges, the be.ez LA robe Tablet range of sleeves provide protection in a sleek design. Designed in black with a contrasting green interior, the be.ez LA robe Tablet range is made from soft, lightweight low resilience polyurethance shape-memory foam (LRPu). The sleeve is 5mm thick, adding very little bulk or weight when carrying the tablet around. It features an inner lip for storing the pen and pen tips to avoid misplacing them or causing any damage to the tablet. The sleeves can be carried alone or tucked away in a bag to ensure protection from knocks, dust and scratches. The LA robe Tablet Creativa for Bamboo small sizes is US$19.99, while the LA robe Tablet Artista for Bamboo medium sizes costs $24.99. The LA robe Tablet Sketch2 for Intuos4 small is priced at $24.99, while the LA robe Tablet Studio2 for Intuos4 medium goes for $29.99

QNAP Systems (http://www.qnap.com) has nveiled its new series of Turbo NAS servers: the TS-259 Pro, TS-459 Pro, TS-659 Pro and TS-859 Pro (a QNAP exclusive), which have been certified as compatible with VMware's vSphere4 (ESX 4.0) virtualization platforms. They're designed for departmental file sharing, storage, and advanced server applications in the office environment. VMware's vSphere is purportedly the industry's first cloud operating system that offers a way to reduce IT costs and increase responsiveness. Shared networked storage is a component of a Cloud Computing infrastructure. The new Turbo NAS series incorporates the Intel Atom D-510 dual-core processor. The new Turbo NAS series comes with new version 3.2 of the QNAP NAS management software, which supports lots of class-leading new features such as iSCSI service. There's support for SPC-3 Persistent Reservation for clustering in VMware and Windows Server 2008. MPIO and MC/S are also supported, as well as new DFS support (...

Axiotron has announced a 2010 kickoff promotion for its Mac tablet, the Modbook (http://www.axiotron.com/modbook). Under the promotion, customers can convert their MacBook base systems into a Modbook for US$699 (regularly $899) or get a Modbook based on a new dealer-supplied 2.13GHz MacBook base system for $1,649 (regularly $1,849). The promotion, which extends a holiday discount initiated in November, runs through March 1, 2010.

Final Cut Studio, Adobe and Avid editors and digital filmmakers from around the world will gather together for the Ninth Annual San Francisco SuperMeet (http://supermeet.com/), to be held on Friday, Feb. 5, 2010 at the UCSF Mission Bay Conference Center in San Francisco, California. Free educational workshops will be offered during the day by Canon, Adobe, Autodesk and Red Giant. Bay Area filmmakers will have a chance to screen content in the SuperMeet Digital Showcase featuring over 30 software and hardware developers. Doors open to the "SuperMeet Digital Showcase" at 3:30 pm, featuring over 30 exhibitors including Avid, Blackmagic Design, Footagehead, G-Tech, Matrox, Maxon, Noise Industries, Red Giant and others. The SuperMeet stage show begins at 7 pm and concludes at 11 pm with the "World Famous Raffle" featuring prizes including the Canon EOS 5D Mark II HDSLR, AJA KiPro, NLE software, plug-ins and more. The San Francisco SuperMeet promises to be the single largest Bay Area social...

RadTech (http://www.radtech.com) has released the US$99.99 STM Convoy laptop backpack. It features a concealed laptop compartment and a suspended foam cell to protect your laptop on all sides. The STM Convoy comes loaded with utility pockets and compartments with space for peripherals, books, folders and accessories. Convoy's ergonomic harness system is designed to make a heavy load completely manageable. The laptop case is made of water resistant, light weight canvas and is completely surrounded by chenille. A built-in, captive rain cover deploys in seconds. The Convoy is available in medium size, which fits most wide-screen laptops with 15-inch and smaller display screens. It comes with YKK zippers, duraflex buckle adjustors, high-density padding, load bearing stitching, and high-strength nylon webbing.

Digital connectivity solutions provider, Gefen (http://www.gefen.com), will demonstrate several upgrades to existing connectivity solutions and a brand new product line designed to ease home entertainment system installations at the upcoming CES 2010. "While we continue building a strong back-end for high definition audio/video systems, we are also focusing on further enhancing already proven technologies," says Hagai Gefen, president and CEO, Gefen "This has led us to the development of a new product line, Gefen ToolBox, for installers working in the field." The ToolBox offers compact installation tools for plug and play system installation and operation. Products come in metallic enclosures that can be mounted on any wall where hi-def audio/video systems are implemented. These "mini" solutions include all connection cables for immediate installation, with HDMI connectors equipped with a locking mechanism to eliminate cable disconnects. Initial products packaged under the ToolBox...

Apparent Corp. has updated Barcode Producer (http://www.itsapparent.com/barcodeproducer/), its barcode creation software suite for Mac OS X, to version 5.7. The upgrade has been revved for 2010 barcode industry standards, including GS1 DataBar requirements for coupons. It also updates the software's integrated Symbology Guide and documentation for the new year's standards. Barcode Producer is a tool for creating barcodes visually, with one-click export for Adobe Creative Suite products, including Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign, and Acrobat Distiller. It's Universal Binary so runs natively on both PowerPC and Intel Macs. Barcode Producer for Mac OS X and Windows is immediately available online with digital and physical CD-ROM delivery. It costs US$199. Plug-ins and accessories include the GS1 DataBar generation tool ($299), Automator batch barcode generation system ($299), and IntelliScanner Pro barcode scanner for testing printed output ($299). Site licenses are available, and Mac...

Econ Technologies (http://wwwecontechnologies.com) is offering three free applications for your Mac: Portraits & Prints, DayChaser, and ImageCaster are now free applications. Econ previously released and sold all three of these applications but have decided to concentrate on backup and synchronization applications. Instead of discontinuing them, theye updated all three applications for Snow Leopard and now offer them free of charge. "We decided to concentrate on ChronoSync and some future Backup applications. Since we did not plan any any future updates for Portraits & Prints, DayChaser, and ImageCaster we did not want to charge for them anymore. So we updated all three for Snow Leopard and fixed a few bugs," says Joe Japes, marketing director of Econ Technologies. "They are all great applications and we're happy to offer them for free to Mac users. I personally use Portraits & Prints all the time and will continue to need it." Portraits & Prints lets you print your...

Akvis has released Akvis Magnifier 3.0 for Mac and Windows. It's an update of the tool to resize digital images. Featuring advanced photo resizing algorithms, Akvis Magnifier enlarges digital pictures to "super-high" resolution. Version 3.0 is compatible with Mac OS X 10.6 ("Snow Leopard"). The program is available as a plug-in to a photo editor, as well as a standalone edition. Version 3.0 offers a new interface and improved compatibility. Support for 64-bit has been added to the plug-in version (now compatible with Adobe Photoshop CS4 64 bit). It also adds compatibility with Adobe Photoshop Elements 8 and Windows 7. Plus, Magnifier 3.0 adds new measurement units to specify the size of the output image. In addition to pixels and percent, it is now possible to set the size in centimeters, millimeters or inches. Upgrade for registered users is free. A 10-day demo is available for download (http://Akvis.com/en/magnifier/index.php). Registered users of Magnifier can update their version...

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE MACTECH'S 25TH ANNIVERSARY: SEEKING COMMUNITY MEMORIES - 25 years in print, Second oldest Mac publication - 15 years online: new web site soon to be unveiled - Now tagged "The journal of Apple technology" December 22, 2009 -- WESTLAKE VILLAGE, Calif. -- MacTech Magazine today kicked off it's 25th Anniversary celebration. The magazine is seeking out great stories and memories from those who have them to share. Now through the end of the year, MacTech is offering up free subscriptions to new subscribers (they pay only the postage). The first issue of MacTech was released in November/December of 1984 and titled "MacTech". For the balance of the first 7 years, the magazine was titled "MacTutor" before it returned to its original title of "MacTech". With its 25th Anniversary now here, the magazine has evolved to be "The journal of Apple technology." Originally a programmer-only magazine, the magazine transitioned to an "all Mac tech" magazine in 2004, and never looked...

Syncro Soft (http://www.oxygenxml.com/) has released version 11.1 of its XML Editor and XML Author containing a set of tools supporting all the XML related technologies. Oxygen combines content author features like the CSS driven Visual XML editor with a XML development environment. It has ready-to-use support for the main document frameworks DITA, DocBook, TEI and XHTML and also includes support for all XML Schema languages, XSLT/XQuery Debuggers, WSDL analyzer, XML Databases, XML Diff and Merge, Subversion client and more. Version 11.1 of XML Editor improves the XML authoring capabilities, the support for XML development and also a number of core features. The visual XML authoring now uses schema information to provide intelligent editing actions. The new compact representation of tags and the quick up/down navigation features improve the ergonomics and the usability, according to the folks at Syncro Soft. can use any XQJ compliant XQuery processor for XQuery transformations,...

EditShare (http://www.editshare.com), which specializes in cross platform collaborative editing and shared media storage systems, has announced compatibility for Mac OS X 10.6 ("Snow Leopard"). The EditShare multi-channel ingest, shared storage and archiving solutions offer special project sharing capabilities for broadcast, postproduction and DI editing workgroups. Thanks to EditShare's patented bin-locking/project-locking framework, Mac-based editors using Apple Final Cut Pro and Avid editing applications can see, copy or revise the work of colleagues with the assurance that a bin, sequence or project will never get accidentally deleted or overwritten, according to Andy Liebman, president and founder, EditShare. Via a file-manager type interface, editors can see all the bins and project files being used by all editors in their group. Bins and projects belonging to other editors are automatically opened as "Read Only," and control can easily be transferred from one editor to another...

LaCie (http://www.lacie.com) and Symwave, a supplier of systems solutions for SuperSpeed USB devices, have announced the industry's first dual hard disk RAID storage solution based on the new SuperSpeed USB (3.0) standard. LaCie's 2Big USB 3.0, a dual-disk RAID 0/1 storage solution, powered by Symwave's USB 3.0 standard-compliant dual SATA and RAID bridge controller, reaches the highest throughput ever achieved in a USB 3.0 external storage product, according to John O'Neill, vice president of marketing at Symwave. The 2Big USB 3.0 will be available in up to 4TB capacities and is bundled with award-winning backup software for both Mac and PC users. Developed for users that require sizeable data flow and fast storage products - such as video professionals who needs high bandwidth, the 2Big USB 3.0 will let users transfer a high-definition uncompressed video at speeds up to 275MB/s burst read transfer speed, or perform real time streaming and editing of multiple HD files simultaneously...

Red Giant Software (http://www.redgiantsoftware.com) has released a beta of Knoll 3D Flare a new free set of tools that allows you to easily create Knoll Lens Flares in After Effects 3D space. This add-on for Knoll Light Factory Pro 2.5 in After Effects includes features like Edge flare-ups, color linking, Z-depth intensity, and full 3D obscuration. These tools are available free to all Knoll Light Factory Pro 2.5 users. Knoll Light Factory is an award-winning product used in movies such as "Avatar," "Transformers" 1 & 2, "The Day After Tomorrow," the Star Trek series, and "Dreamgirls."

RE:Vision Effects (http://www.revisionfx.com) has released Twixtor as an OFX plug-in set; Foundry's Nuke and Autodesk's Maya Composite (Toxik) are currently supported. Other OFX hosts will be added to the list of supported applications once Twixtor is verified to work properly within them. Twixtor enables you to retime your image sequences. It synthesizes unique new frames by warping and interpolating frames of the original sequence, employing RE:Vision's proprietary tracking technology that calculates motion for each individual pixel. Twixtor has options to help prevent tearing and stretching of objects as they cross or go out of the frame, including a smart blending option for pans and zooms to prevent inappropriate streaking or weird artifacts at frame borders. Twixtor also has an option to automatically enhance dark imagery or imagery with poorly defined edges. With the features, many pieces of footage that could be difficult to track become well behaved. What's in the Twixtor OFX...

Tunewear (http://www.tunewear.com) has released the GameHandle for the iPhone 3G, iPhone 3GS and second gen iPod touch. The US$19.95 device is designed to provide a better grip on the Apple devices when playing action and racing games. It has a rubber coating on the surface that Tunewear claims is comfortable and feels great to the touch. It also prevents your hands from slipping when you're game playing. An internal sound cavity system resonates the sound from iPhone or iPod speakers inside the GameHandle body. It outputs the sound through vents on the back for an overall improved audio experience.

Future Media Concepts (FMC) -- and authorized digital media training organization for postproduction, broadcast, and content creators -- has announced new training options for their FMC|Online division. Commencing in late December, the updated training catalog boasts Adobe, Apple and Avid course enhancements, which include Final Cut Pro 7 instruction and Mac IT training. FMC|Online utilizes the latest in desktop sharing technology to provide live group classes conducted by manufacturer certified trainers. A counterpart to their classroom training, the new online courses will continue to provide students with fundamental, hands-on technology instruction to confidently assume most real-world postproduction assignments, says Ben Kozuch, co-founder of FMC. Registration is currently open for all upcoming FMC|Online courses. To view course information, including pricing, dates and availability, please visit: www.FMCTraining.com .

EyeTV 3 users can now stream live television over a 3G connection to an iPhone. With Elgato's new EyeTV Live3G web app, you can watch live TV and EyeTV recordings anywhere. The web app connects your iPhone to your Mac at home. It uses HTTP Live Streaming technology to deliver video streams without sacrificing battery life, according to the folks at Elgato. The Live3G web app is available immediately at live3g.eyetv.com, and is part of EyeTV 3.3, a free update for EyeTV 3 users. The web app complements Elgato's recently introduced EyeTV app for the iPhone, which delivers live TV to an iPhone over a Wi-Fi connection. The EyeTV Live3G web app uses HTTP Live Streaming technology introduced with iPhone OS 3.0, which relies upon H.264 video and AAC audio to deliver the highest possible playback quality. Live3G takes advantage of the iPhone's hardware acceleration to deliver higher performance and longer battery life, says Elgato. The EyeTV Live3G web app uses Elgato's free "My EyeTV"...

Booq (http://www.booqbags.com/) has released the US$149.95 Mamba shift case for laptops. Its exterior peels open to reveal a padded interior. The Mamba shift also has side pockets and quickly accessible compartments. It's designed with YKK zippers and side compartments, the cool black Mamba shift is perfect for storing items you routinely need while on the move. The shoulder straps come equipped with an elastic pop-out iPhone pocket that keeps your phone protected and at your finger tips. Once you unzip and peel back the black outer skin, Mamba shift opens up to reveal a red interior that boasts multiple features to help organize your stuff. The main compartment includes a document storage pocket as well as a pen holder located at the top of the interior. Diagonally overlapping interior pockets let see, search, and store all your gear. Booq has also included a separate zippered pouch for cables, hard drives, and any other small accessory you would like to keep protected. Located in a...

The HW Group (http://www.HW-group.com) has released the Poseidon 4002, a 19-inch 1U rack mount system for datacenter temperature and environment monitoring. The Poseidon presents the solution for monitoring of the racks and computer rooms (temperature, humidity, electricity supply, access to the room, detectors). The device alerts by e-mail, SNMP traps, SMS, output relays. Poseidon 4002 is designed to offer a complete system for environment monitoring in a 19-inch rack, an entire server room or in a datacenter. The 4002 model can be mounted as a 1U device, or outside of the 42U space. Eighteen sensors are supported (temperature, humidity, smoke, flood, electricity supply status or failure, entry to the room, digital inputs). The device is SNMP compatible. Two monitoring applications (PD Trigger and HWg-PDMS) are included free of charge. Contact the HW Group for pricing options.

LaCie (http://www.lacie.com) has introduced what it says the most compact 2.5-inch hard drive on the market -- the LaCie Rikiki, in metal. Measuring 110cm, it holds up to 640GB of media, but can fit in a pocket or purse. Encased in brushed aluminum, the LaCie Rikiki, which means "tiny" in French, sports an USB 2.0 interface and is compatible with a Mac or PC. LaCie Rikiki also comes with a software suite for backup management - enabling complete configuration in just a few clicks. The LaCie Rikiki will be available in 250GB, 500GB, and 640GB capacities through the LaCie Online Store, LaCie Reseller+, and LaCie Corner. Pricing starts at the suggested retail price of US$74.99.

Agama (http://www.agamazone.com), a new new consumer electronics company, has announced the launch of a line of new mice with high tracking precision for gamers and professionals alike. Each is small, portable and can be stored for traveling. The models include the M-300 Retractable Mini Notebook Mouse, M-500G Gaming Mouse, M-900LS Laser Notebook Mouse and the M-905BT Bluetooth Notebook Mouse. The US$10.99 M-300 retractable mini notebook mouse has a 1200 dpi optical sensor, has a retractable cable and is available in black or silver. The $14.99 M-500G Gaming Mouse has a 1600 dpi gaming engine and can be switched to 800 dpi, depending on the game. It touts 20G maximum cursor acceleration and 68 inches per second maximum speed. The mouse also has a blue fluorescent light that shines in dark environments. The $24.99 M-900LS Laser Notebook Mouse has 2.4GHz digital cordless technology that works up to 10 meters away. The 1600 dpi laser sensor and advanced laser engine for high tracking...

TechSmith Corp., a provider of screen capture and recording solutions, has released a public beta of Snagit for Mac. It's an app for turning screenshots into visual communication tools. Individuals who want to take part in the public beta can download Snagit for Mac by visiting http://www.techsmith.com/snagitmac/ . "When we released Camtasia for Mac earlier this year, we were reminded once again just how much the Mac community also wants to see Snagit on the platform," says Tiffany Wood, Snagit product manager at TechSmith. "Starting today, the public beta of Snagit for Mac is available. We're excited to receive feedback so we can deliver a final release that meets the Mac community's expectations and get feature suggestions that matter most to them for future releases." Snagit enables computer users to take screenshots of exactly what they see on their computer screens to communicate ideas faster, explain concepts clearly, and archive electronic information with point-and-click...

Other World Computing (http://www.macsales.com) has announced third party 32GB 1066MHz DDR3 ECC memory upgrade for all Mac Pro quad-core Pro models, including the newest 3.33GHz model announced by Apple earlier this month. OWC memory upgrades offer all Mac Pro users up to double the original factory memory with kits of up to 32GB for all Mac Pro dual-core, quad-core, and 8-core Models. Pricing for OWC memory upgrade kits for 2009 Mac Pro Quad-Core 2.66GHz, 2.93GHz, and 3.33GHz models: ° OWC 12GB DDR3 ECC Memory Kit -- $467.99 (3 x 4GB matched memory modules); ° OWC 16GB DDR3 ECC Memory Kit -- $619.99 (4 x 4GB matched memory modules); ° OWC 24GB DDR3 ECC Memory Ki ---$1579.99 (3 x 8GB matched memory modules); ° OWC 32GB DDR3 ECC Memory Kit -- $2099.99 (4 x 8GB matched memory modules). Pricing for OWC memory upgrade kits for 2009 Mac Pro 8-Core 2.26GHz, 2.66GHz, and 2.93GHz models: ° OWC 24GB DDR3 ECC Memory Kit -- $929.99 (6 x 4GB matched memory modules); ° OWC 32GB DDR3 ECC Memory Kit...

Skydda Design has introduced the BambooBook (http://skyddadesign.com/products/bambooBook/bambooBook.html), a case for 13-inch Macbook Pros. It's manufactured of bamboo and lined with padded suede fabric. The BambooBook measures 1 5/8 x 14 3/8 x 11 inches and weighs three pounds, seven ounces. Even with the MacBook Pro inserted, users will will have full operation of their laptop without having to remove it from the case. Just set it down anywhere, open the lid and it's ready to go. You can plug in the computer's AC adaptor and even access the USB port while working within the case. To protect the BambooBook's polished hardwood finish, the case ships with a formfitting vinyl cover. The cover zips around each side of the case up to the handle for access and has a pocket to store the AC adaptor, iPhone and other accessories. The BambooBook is currently offered at the introductory price of US$149. To celebrate the launch of the BambooBook, Skydda Design is also offering an additional $20...

QNAP Systems (http://www.qnap.com), a manufacturer of NAS servers, has announced an update to the NAS management software that powers its business-class Intel®-based Turbo NAS servers. The NAS management software version 3.2, embedded as firmware, provides an iSCSI target solution supporting SPC-3 persistent reservation, MPIO and MC/S allowing SMB and corporate customers the ability to deploy the NAS as a storage server in the virtualized and clustered infrastructure. Additionally, the newly updated management software also steps up its backup capabilities by adding Apple Time Machine support and even redundant backups to Amazon's S3 cloud storage platform. In addition, IT administrators can also benefit from the DFS support (Share Folder Aggregation), import of user-list, and customizable Daylight Saving Time. What's more, the next-generation Internet Protocol, IPv6, has also been incorporated for future networking evolution. QNAP's Web File Manager 2 features a redesigned user...

Autodesk has announced that it's ready to start shipping Autodesk Smoke 2010 for Mac OS X (http://usa.autodesk.com/adsk/servlet/pc/index?id=5561833&siteID=123112 ), a software-only editorial finishing tool and the first Autodesk finishing product designed to run on the Mac. Smoke software's proven editorial finishing tools harness the 64-bit power of Snow Leopard to provide an interactive, all-in-one finishing experience, says Stig Gruman, Autodesk vice president of digital entertainment. Autodesk Smoke helped define editorial finishing by combining the timeline workflow of a non-linear editor with advanced visual effects tools, he adds. Customers have used Smoke to help shape such television programs as "House," "NCIS," "CSI: NY" and "Entourage" as well as popular Super Bowl commercials, including Coke Zero "Mean Troy" and Cash4Gold.com's "One Up." CCTV in China used Smoke to help create its 2008 Beijing Olympics packaging and promotions as well as for content production during...