SANDVOX 2, Web Site Creation Software, Revisited!

SANDVOX 2, Web Site Creation Software, Revisited!

© 2012 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

BOB SKIDMORE

CORRESPONDENT

Web site creation should be fun and easy. Last year I did a review of Sandvox’s Version 1, which did just that. Recently, Version 2.7 was released with a host of improvements and features. In this article I shall concentrate on some of the improvements. If you want more overall detailed information on the software benefits you can see my previous review that explores the original program in depth. http://bit.ly/dFTmw0

(TIP: Sandvox 2 uses HTML 5 to ensure compatibility with ios devices, such as iPhone, iPod Touch, MAC and Windows computer platforms. )

Sandvox’s system requirements have three options. Sandvox 2.2 runs on MAC’s OS 10.5, if you have OS 10.4 you’ll need to use the original Sandvox 1.6. If you have an Intel MAC you will want Sandvox 2.7, the most up-to date version and what we tested for this review. It supports English, French, German, Italian, Spanish (Brazilian & Portuguese), simplified Chinese and Japanese.

(TIP: You can use this software to create as many web sites as you wish. If, however, you are building a web site for someone else, and they wish to maintain it, they will need to purchase their own copy of Sandvox. )

The general construction template is very similar to Version 1. It’s based around the simple concept of drag, drop and publish. There are multiple new designs as well as the ones from the previous version, with many more available on line from third party designers. Once you have started working with a selected design it is possible to change the design without loosing the content, however, some rearranging of verbiage may be necessary. As is always the case, not all subject categories are represented, something that can be rectified with a custom design feature. This feature would be more for designers and developers and not the average user. http://bit.ly/263Zft

A new Inspector, a common MAC design tool, provides for better control making it easier to adjust layouts, add features and characteristics. You can now apply these changes to a single object or the entire web site. A new Photo Gallery offers a gallery style view with only one click in the Inspector window. You can easily add links to Facebook, Twitter, blogs and a comment section.

(TIP: Sandvox automatically organizes your site and page content in such a way that aids search engines to find the most important content. This is an invaluable tool in guiding people to your site. To make the most of this feature register your site with GOOGLE WEBMASTER TOOLS, http://bit.ly/oGe6PP )

Sandvox 2 has added what they call Flexible Objects. This feature allows you to quickly add blocks of text, images, movies, and Quick link to Amazon that includes using your affiliate tag. You can feature YouTube videos, RSS feed selection and incorporate news and/or weather content from other web sites. You can insert raw HTML to add custom features. All these extras make your site look current and alive. Sandvox claims over 60 major new features and improvements, too many to highlight here, but that’s what makes the Sandvox software so attractive.

As always, Sandvox offers a number of short tip links including a seven-chapter screencast. They are helpful, however, what’s missing, that was available with version 1, is an optional step-by-step CD. This CD walks you thru the process in creating a web site. The nice thing about this was that you could play the CD along side the template as you were developing your own site. When the disc was finished, your site was completed and ready to upload. Since Sandvox’s concept is to make the web site creation simple, so even the novice can use it, this is a much-needed tool to ensure that you utilize all the features and get the most from this powerful program. Presently, you may have to dig a bit to find all but the most-used features that are available.

Sandvox 2.7, 2.2 or even 1.6 software offers the easiest way to create professional looking web sites at a very low cost. Version 2 is so feature packed that you would be hard pressed to find anything else to compare it to. You can actually create and publish a five-page web site in under an hour with no prior experience. Whether you are an HTML pro or just a novice, Sandvox makes creating a web site fast, easy and fun, too. This may be your incentive to step up to a MAC! Remember, a MAC can run Windows, too.

MSRP: $79.99

Available on line

For ordering and more information go to: http://bit.ly/P1f0M

GADGETEER’S RATING: *****

Bob Skidmore is a freelance writer, who may be contacted at bob.thegadgeteer.skidmore@gmail.com, or followed at twitter.com/bskidmore for the latest gadget industry news. He does not represent, or endorse any of the products he reviews and his opinions are solely his points of view and not those of the manufacturer. The manufacturer generally supplies products at no cost for the articles and no other compensation is received. THE GADGETEER is highly selective as to products he feels worthy of review so as not to waste the reader’s time, thus the reason for many superior ratings.

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WeMo, Controlling Your Home From Afar

WeMo, Controlling Your Home From Afar…

© 2012 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

BOB SKIDMORE

CORRESPONDENT

Over 700,000 apps are now available for the iPhone/iPad/iPod, but do any allow you to control your home’s electrical devices? Belkin, a leading manufacturer of computer, tablet and smartphone peripherals, recently introduced WeMo, a series of plug-in modules that do just that when used with your Wi-Fi network.

So, how does it work? Presently there are two modules available that plug into your standard electrical wall outlet. The first module is a SWITCH that connects with any *120 volt, 15 amp (1800 watt) device such as heaters, portable air conditioners, lights, coffee makers, etc and includes a manual override button with a Wi-Fi signal strength indicator that’s also found on the MOTION.

(TIP: A unique application could be to reboot a device such as a DVR that’s frozen and can’t be viewed from afar via a Sling Box without momentarily cutting off the power to it.)

Once the SWITCH and the device are connected you may control the operation of the device via your iPhone (3GS+), iPod Touch (3rdGen+) and all models of the iPad, with a FREE WeMo app available from Apple’s App store. Android smartphones may be compatible in the near future. Sounds easy, and it is. The second module is known as MOTION and is used to control the SWITCH when the MOTION module detects any movement in its path and leaves the device on when set in the default mode. When used with a FREE web service from ifttt.com it can send you a text or email alerting you that MOTION has detected some sort of movement in its path, now making it a low cost security device.

(TIP: *WeMo is currently available in the U. S. & U. K. and will soon be released in France and Germany, followed by a world-wide roll-out in 2013. Naturally, those models will be designed with the proper plugs and voltage/wattage specifications and will vary according to country. Operation from your iPhone/iPad/iPod is via the Internet and not country dependent.)

The WeMo app offers a wide range of fine tuning settings known as RULES. These RULES allow you to go beyond simple manual on/off operation. You can now program specific times, duration of operation, and days of operation as well as sensitivity of motion detection to activate the SWITCH. Once again, you can be alerted when these activities take place if you subscribe to ifttt.com.

(TIP: ifttt.com (If This Then That) offers many features for expanding this device including the possibility of having a lamp momentarily turn on when you receive an email or a Facebook mention. Ifttt is certainly not limited to WeMo and may benefit you in many other ways. Worth checking out!)

Installation and operation are relatively easy. Belkin has provided a special WeMo customer support team specifically for this product that’s accessible by phone, on-line chat, email or user blog in the event you need assistance. Belkin’s customer service after the sale, is excellent!

I’ve tested this product extensively and find it to be well worth the investment. The SWITCH is available separately since the app can support up to 32 of them, or as a kit with the MOTION module included.

MSRP: $99.95 (kit) $49.95 (SWITCH or MOTION module only)

Available on line and at various retailers. For more information:

Belkin: http://bit.ly/zvyr8P

GADGETEER’S RATING: *****

Bob Skidmore is a freelance writer, who may be contacted at bob.thegadgeteer.skidmore@gmail.com, or followed at twitter.com/bskidmore for the latest gadget industry news. He does not represent, or endorse any of the products he reviews and his opinions are solely his points of view and not those of the manufacturer. The manufacturer generally supplies products at no cost for the articles and no other compensation is received. THE GADGETEER is highly selective as to products he feels worthy of review so as not to waste the reader’s time, thus the reason for many superior ratings.

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SteadePod

SteadePod, Pocketsized stabilization for iPhone and other digital cameras…

© 2012 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

BOB SKIDMORE

CORRESPONDENT

One of the pitfalls of small cameras, whether they be an iPhone, Flip or other pocket digital camera, is that they become somewhat difficult to hold, much less pan or tilt, and still maintain a steady image. Naturally, a tripod eliminates such issues, but then that negates the benefit of quick, on-the-spot documentation that pocket photographic devices offer. SteadePod offers an interesting alternative to the traditional tripod.

The SteadePod is a pocket-sized device that attaches to your camera with a normal 1/4” x 20 thumbscrew mount. Since most smartphones have no tripod thread the iStabilizer, discussed in a previous article, would be required. Once attached, a built-in, adjustable cord with footpad, anchors to your shoe’s sole, lace or even a belt loop. Since the cord is adjustable you are easily able to attain the ideal height for your shot. When attained, you simply lock in the adjustment with the side-mounted lever.

(TIP: The side-mounted lever adjustment has three positions; LOCKED, does not permit any adjustment; ADJUST/RETRACT, allows the cord to be continuously adjustable in either direction and until locked remains flexible; EXTEND, allows extending the length/height without the immediate possibility of retraction. In most applications the ADJUST/RETRACT and the LOCKED positions would be the most used combination)

The SteadePod works very well for “straight-on” shots and especially well when panning or tilting. Headshots are rock solid and pans are smooth and therefore can be slow, a technique that gives videos that professional look. Time exposures and extreme telephoto shots are now easily possible, too. Considering size, portability, cost and ease of use the SteadePod is a good addition to your smartphone or digital camera, no matter what the size. It certainly beats a homemade device a friend of mine made for me several years ago. It consisted of a screw on one end, attached to a short string with a large washer at the other end that provided weight and served as an improvised footpad. Fortunately, these features are now designed into this compact accessory.

(TIP: Panning should generally be slow. Fast pans result in out-of-focus or blury scenes that quickly cause the viewer to tune-out. Since the SteadePod provides for smooth camera movements your videos will tell a story and be more enjoyable to watch.)

MSRP: $29.95

Available on line and at various retailers. For more information:

SteadePod: http://bit.ly/M6valF

iStabilizer: http://bit.ly/Quqcjc

GADGETEER’S RATING: *****

Bob Skidmore is a freelance writer, who may be contacted at bob.thegadgeteer.skidmore@gmail.com, or followed at twitter.com/bskidmore for the latest gadget industry news. He does not represent, or endorse any of the products he reviews and his opinions are solely his points of view and not those of the manufacturer. The manufacturer generally supplies products at no cost for the articles and no other compensation is received. THE GADGETEER is highly selective as to products he feels worthy of review so as not to waste the reader’s time, thus the reason for many superior ratings.

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BROTHER 2270DW, Laser Printer

BROTHER 2270DW, Laser Printer

© 2012 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

BOB SKIDMORE

CORRESPONDENT

Generally speaking, there are four types of printer formats, dot matrix, inkjet, laser, and color laser. Each serves a specific purpose, so part of the selection process depends on your use. If you only want one printer you’ll probably be best served with an inkjet model. These are great for document as well as photo printing with a host of affordable models and features available depending primarily on your photo reproduction expectations, a subject for another article. The other practical choice is a laser. Color lasers require multiple, expensive toner cartridges and photo reproduction can be somewhat disappointing unless you spend BIG bucks. B & W lasers have become very affordable and available in all price ranges plus use a relatively inexpensive single toner cartridge. All lasers use a drum that typically requires replacement after three toner cartridges have been replaced.

(TIP: Laser printers use toner cartridges, a drum, and a xerographic printing process. They differ from analog photocopiers in that the image is produced by the direct scanning of a laser beam across the printer's photo sensor. An inkjet printer is a type of  printer that creates a digital image by propelling droplets of ink onto the surface of the material to be printed. Dot matrix printers use a ribbon much like the obsolete typewriters of days gone by, are rarely used now and would be hard to purchase. )

I tested the compact, tri-platform, Brother 2270DW B & W laser printer. This printer has numerous features that benefit both the home and small business user at a very affordable price point. Its size, 18.5”W-14.2”D-12.6”H, allows it to fit in tight spaces. However, the most impressive feature is its ability to print double-sided documents, a savings in document pages and paper stock. It prints 27 pages per minute with a resolution of 2400 x 600 dpi, has a 250-page capacity, and a 32mb memory buffer. It’s network ready too, providing built-in wireless 802.11b/g, not AirPrint, and Ethernet interfaces. By downloading the free CORTADO WORKPLACE App to your mobile device it may be possible to print directly from mobile devices such as Apple, Android or Blackberry. High volume toner cartridges are available with a yield of +/- 2600 pages compared to the standard cartridge’s 1200.

(TIP: Laser printers offer a very high quality, professional look to your documents. AirPrint is a wireless technology for printing from a tablet or Smartphone. Cortado Workplace software is a third-party app used to interface tablets and smartphones to this printer. As always, certain operating system requirements may apply.)

I found the Brother 2270DW to be an exceptional printer at an unbelievable price point. Brother’s support department that ranks at the top along with its cost saving features and its print quality make it a GADGETEER’S BEST BUY PICK.

(TIP: To print double sided documents the original must be in a group such as stacked PDFs or a multiple page WORD document. Once you’ve selected the print command you will need to select COPIES & PAGES followed by LAYOUT and then turn on TWO-SIDED. This is the way it is done on a MAC, but a PC should be very similar.)

MSRP: $149.95

Available on line and at various retailers.

For more information go to:  http://bit.ly/N95D9N

GADGETEER’S RATING: *****

Bob Skidmore is a freelance writer, who may be contacted at bob.thegadgeteer.skidmore@gmail.com, or followed at twitter.com/bskidmore for the latest gadget industry news. He does not represent, or endorse any of the products he reviews and his opinions are solely his points of view and not those of the manufacturer. The manufacturer generally supplies products at no cost for the articles and no other compensation is received. THE GADGETEER is highly selective as to products he feels worthy of review so as not to waste the reader’s time, thus the reason for many superior ratings.

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NANGUANG LED VIDEO LIGHT

NANGUANG LED VIDEO LIGHT - Portable lighting for your iPad, iPhone and digital cameras of any size…

© 2012 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

BOB SKIDMORE

CORRESPONDENT

Proper lighting is an important part of shooting stills and videos. It sharpens detail, improves color reproduction, eliminates shadows, and decreases graininess, or video noise associated with digital photography. Many digital cameras lack the ability to add effective portable additional lighting. So here’s a solution that works.

The Nanguang CN-160 is a portable LED light source incorporating 160 LEDs at a color temperature of 5400 Kelvin (K). Included in the kit are three attachable filters: Spotlight Effect, Diffuser, and 3200K for indoor use.

(TIP: 5400 degrees Kelvin is considered the average color temperature for outdoor lighting. Naturally, this varies with the time of day and sky conditions. A 3200 K temperature is considered typical lighting consistent with an incandesant light source. When possible, it is suggested that external lighting devices be as closely matched to the color temperature of the surrounding light source.  In today’s digital world it is possible to make some corrections after the fact with programs like Photoshop for stills, or hue adjustments in video editing software, but you can’t beat having it correct the first time.)

What is color temperature? Color temperature is a characteristic of visible light that has important applications in lighting, photography, videography, publishing, manufacturing, astrophysics, horticulture, and other fields. The color temperature of a light source is the temperature of an ideal black body radiator that radiates light of comparable hue to that of the light source. To the non-techie, all you really need to know is to match the external light source to the available light as close as possible. Some cameras even do this automatically within reason.

Since today’s digital products such as the iPhone, iPad, and mini digital cameras are small and lightweight, a light’s physical size becomes a major consideration. The CN-160 with all its illumination (3’ at 900 Lux  – 15’ at 40 Lux) weighs in at under one-pound. It has a hot shoe, can be powered by 5 AA batteries, which is my choice or camcorder batteries such as the Sony’s NP-FH70, NP-FM55H, NP-F550 or a Panasonic CGR-D16S. Such batteries have a shelf life of two or less years. What’s missing is a connection for an external AC adapter since battery runtime is 70 – 90 minutes.

(TIP: AA batteries are lightweight, inexpensive and readily available worldwide. Camcorder batteries such as those previously mentioned, are expensive, bulky, require charging, and offer no advantage unless you already own them.)

The CN-160 is a well-designed light source that includes a linear “remaining charge” indicator and rotary switch that serves as a handy dimmer as well as on/off switch. Mounting can be accomplished with a shoe, optional L bracket, or mounting bar. In the case of smartphones or iPads, the use of an optional iStablizer smartphone tripod mount or iShot G8 Pro adapter for iPads with camera mounting bar easily adapts the camera for mounting the CN-160 to the light. Any way you use it, the CN-160 is an effective, feature packed light source at a low price with an average service life of 50000+ hours. When mounted on the L bracket, it increases the stability and feel of the camera resulting in shake-free images.

CN-160: Price varies. For more info go to: http://bit.ly/MEMnm8

L bracket camera mounting bars are available at most camera supply stores. istablizer: http://bit.ly/Quqcjc

iShots: http://bit.ly/PCBkJb

GADGETEER’S RATING: *****

Bob Skidmore is a freelance writer, who may be contacted at bob.thegadgeteer.skidmore@gmail.com, or followed at twitter.com/bskidmore for the latest gadget industry news. He does not represent, or endorse any of the products he reviews and his opinions are solely his points of view and not those of the manufacturer. The manufacturer generally supplies products at no cost for the articles and no other compensation is received. THE GADGETEER is highly selective as to products he feels worthy of review so as not to waste the reader’s time, thus the reason for many superior ratings.

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DRY CASE, Waterproof protection for iPad, iPhone and other devices

DRY CASE, Waterproof protection for iPad, iPhone and other devices…

© 2012 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

BOB SKIDMORE

CORRESPONDENT

DRY CASE, a product of medical manufacturer, Dry Corp, LLC, offers a unique solution to protecting your valuable electronic devices from damage caused by rain, submersion and sand. Not only can you dive with these cases, but they are also great protection when boating, kayaking and beach going since they prevent water and sand from damaging your devices.

(TIP: If you’re not diving with the DRY CASE, but rather concerned about an accidental spill into the water, consider attaching a fishing bobber or other floatation device so you can easily retrieve the device since the DRY CASE will not float.)

(TIP: Condensation may occur depending on the depth and general water temperature when compared to above water temperatures.)

Available in two models; DRY CASE, for small devices such as iPhone, digital cameras, cell phones, etc., and DRY CASE TABLET, a larger version, for tablets such as iPad and Kindle. Both cases include a watertight headphone & mic jack, and yes, they offer DRY BUDS, a combo ear bud mic/headset that’s fully submersible to 10’, but not tested for this article.

Now, not being a diver, I did not test the manufacture’s claim that either model may be taken to depths of up to 100’ for one-hour or less, but I did do some normal tests at moderate depths in a bay.

(TIP: The manufacturer warranties these products with a one-year replacement policy. They do not cover any damage to the device used in the DRY CASE which is understandable since prior condition of the device and proper operation play a major role in its success, all of which they have no control over. )

I found both models to be watertight. Well, they should be since the two sliding locking mechanisms are extremely difficult to lock and even more so, to un-lock. My suggestion to the manufacturer would be to reconfigure these locks to accommodate a specially made wrench for this application and supply it with the case. This is the weakest link in the otherwise flawless design. To further ensure water tightness a small hand pump is supplied that literally vacuum seals the case thus making it impossible to leak.

(TIP: When shooting under water many factors have to be considered. The deeper you are the less light is available and the useable subject distance drops off considerably. The type of light, and refraction factors play a major role with color temperature accuracy. This is not the fault of the case or the camera, simply physics.)

The German’s developed a similar case years ago for around $300 with a limitation of thirty-feet. DRY CASE greatly surpasses that including a price tag of only $39.99 - $59.99 and the plastic material that you shoot thru is extremely clear with no color distortion or focus issues, something lacking in other brands.

(TIP: Bright sunlight may hamper viewing the screen of the device, thus if the start/stop or shutter control is touch-screen activated, it could affect your ability to operate the camera.)

MSRP: DRY CASE $39.99* – DRY CASE TABLET $59.99** -  DRY BUDS SPORT $39.99 (* Includes armband & lanyard;  **Includes handle & carry strap)

Available on line at various retailers. For more information:

http://www.drycase.com

GADGETEER’S RATING: *****

Bob Skidmore is a freelance writer, who may be contacted at bob.thegadgeteer.skidmore@gmail.com, or followed at twitter.com/bskidmore for the latest gadget industry news. He does not represent, or endorse any of the products he reviews and his opinions are solely his points of view and not those of the manufacturer. The manufacturer generally supplies products at no cost for the articles and no other compensation is received. THE GADGETEER is highly selective as to products he feels worthy of review so as not to waste the reader’s time, thus the reason for many superior ratings.

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Wi-Fi RADIO, Today’s Short-Wave Replacement

Wi-Fi RADIO, Today’s Short-Wave Replacement… 

© 2012 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

BOB SKIDMORE

CORRESPONDENT

The short wave radio seems to have all but disappeared after having served as a lifeline during the war years and beyond. Its replacement is a little known box called a Wi-Fi Radio, a device that connects to the Internet. Yes, Internet radio is available on your computer, but convenience plays a role, too.

Over the past several months I’ve been testing the CC WiFi Radio, CWF, by C.Crane. It’s a cute little box that works much like any AM/FM clock radio. The difference is that this radio has the ability to receive 18000+ worldwide stations with crystal clear clarity. Selections include U. S. AM/FM stations, stations in Europe, and numerous global broadcasts. Media from your computer may also be heard providing you’re on the same network as your PC, in the PC’s shared music folder, PC file sharing is turned on, and the stored audio on your PC is not protected or limited. You can listen to such famous icons as the BBC and not suffer from fades or annoying crackling. Canadians and Europeans would find this radio a helpful way of staying in touch while wintering in the States or elsewhere.

(TIP: It’s important to have at least a 20 – 30% wi-fi signal strength for good reception. The stronger the signal, the less frequently buffering may occur. Buffering is the computer’s way of catching up and digesting the data it receives. When buffering takes place you will temporally loose the audio, however, once buffering is complete you generally continue where you left off.)

What makes the CWF radio so unique is its size, ease of operation and programmability. A central knob serves as the radio’s multi-function selector and volume control. Once you’ve locked in your router’s Internet IP address, you’re set to go. Stations may be found by location, genre or general search. When you dial in to a station you may listen to it and/or save as a preset for permanent future selection. Three pre-set buttons are located on the radio’s front panel. An additional ninety-six are available on the included remote control. Files supported include: MP3, Windows Media, Real, iTunes and Ogg Vorbis. A built-in clock also functions as an alarm allowing you to wake up to your favorite station.

(TIP: During heavy Internet traffic periods you may experience a loss of signal. The radio’s display will indicate that it’s re-trying, but rejoining the broadcast may be time consuming, but it will return.)

Receiva Internet Radio is a FREE service usable with this radio that provides access to a diverse range of stations worldwide. When you subscribe to their service, locating stations becomes a snap and they are saved in your personal account and accessible on this radio. Receiva is also available as an App for your iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch. To join: https://radios.reciva.com/

The CWF Web radio is a practical way to enjoy distant stations. The built-in speaker provides hi-fi quality sound. An Ethernet jack is also available for non-wi-fi areas or to achieve the best possible reception. Headphone and lineout jacks allow for expanding your listening capabilities. A 7.5 vdc jack allows the provided multi-voltage power adapter to be used, but also making it possible to plug in a 7.5 vdc battery pack, not offered as an accessory, but available by third parties and requiring a custom interface cable. Having lived in the NYC area for many years, I found it enjoyable to once again listen to WOR. Having immediate access to the BBC is fantastic! If you’re into radio, this is a must have!

MSRP: $139.95

Available on line at various retailers. For more information:

http://www.ccrane.com/radios/wifi-radios/cc-wifi-radio.aspx

GADGETEER’S RATING: * * * * *

Bob Skidmore is a freelance writer, who may be contacted at bob.thegadgeteer.skidmore@gmail.com, or followed at twitter.com/bskidmore for the latest gadget industry news. He does not represent, or endorse any of the products he reviews and his opinions are solely his points of view and not those of the manufacturer. The manufacturer generally supplies products at no cost for the articles and no other compensation is received. THE GADGETEER is highly selective as to products he feels worthy of review so as not to waste the reader’s time, thus the reason for many superior ratings.

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iTwin, Accessing files on multiple computers made easy

iTwin, Accessing files on multiple computers made easy… 

© 2012 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

BOB SKIDMORE

CORRESPONDENT

How many times have you said that you wished there were an easy way to access files from another computer to one at home or at the office, or even around the globe? Programs like Apple’s Remote Desktop, or services such as Go To My PC have existed for some time, but leave much to be desired. Along comes iTwin, a simple device with a unique answer.

What is iTwin? iTwin is a device about the size of a USB flash drive. It differs in that it has a USB connector at either end, no useable on-board memory, and separates in the middle. When properly programmed with a Pair Name (ID) and email address, iTwin establishes a link between two or more computers and is dual-platform compatible. Once each half is installed in the desired computers, a brief initialization process takes place. When completed a virtual folder opens on the Master Computer. The purpose of this folder is for you to drag any files or file folders into it, thus allowing the Slave Computer to have access to it. This virtual folder now becomes visible on the Slave Computer as well. A simple double click on the Slave Computer and the file opens allowing you to work with the data. You may even drag the file to the computer’s desktop thus establishing a permanent file transfer. It’s also possible to transfer a file from the Slave Computer to the virtual file, which will forward the file to the desktop of the Master Computer.

(TIP: The speed of the data transfer is dependent on your computer’s processor, file size and the speed of your Internet service. A 256 bit encryption is a standard feature  of iTwin ensuring your files are always protected.)

So what we’ve accomplished is a secure, and easy file transfer that can be unlimited in size. In the event one-half of the iTwin is lost or stolen, a disable code is supplied during the initial setup for the purpose of totally disabling the use of the iTwin in such situations. Pair Names are also easily changed.

 (TIP: At this time applications are not transferable, so both computers must have the proper application installed to access and work with the data being transferred. iTwin has indicated that application transfers will be possible in the future.)

OK, let’s say you have a need for more that one Slave Computer to access the files of the Master Computer. This is now possible by adding one to nineteen more iTwins to the Master Computer and downloading the iTwin Multi software on the Master Computer. Once loaded and operational you simply access the particular iTwin from the drop down menu and select the pair name for the Slave Computer desired. If someone is stationed at the Master Computer they can transfer incoming files from one Slave to those of another.

(TIP: When adding additional iTwins to the Master Computer a USB hub will be required if additional USB ports are unavailable.)

The iTwin is a revolutionary method of transferring business or home data to multiple designated computers. It’s rugged, works extremely well, fast, dependable, and secure. It’s ideal for document, home-movies and photo transfers by just supplying the other half of the iTwin to the other user, making it a great way to share material with family, friends and business associates. I’m advised that many enhancements are in the works. Currently, the company’s policy is to make updates available at no cost, so obsolescence is not an issue. iTwin supports: MAC OS X 10.6+, Windows XP, Vista, and 7.

MSRP: $99.00

Available at retail locations and on-line. More details available at:

http://www.itwin.com

GADGETEER’S RATING: H H H H H

Bob Skidmore is a freelance writer, who may be contacted at bob.thegadgeteer.skidmore@gmail.com, or followed at twitter.com/bskidmore for the latest gadget industry news. He does not represent, or endorse any of the products he reviews and his opinions are solely his points of view and not those of the manufacturer. The manufacturer generally supplies products at no cost for the articles and no other compensation is received. THE GADGETEER is highly selective as to products he feels worthy of review so as not to waste the reader’s time, thus the reason for many superior ratings.

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