IT'S EASY TO FLIP OVER FLIP VIDEO

IT’S EASY TO FLIP OVER FLIP VIDEO

© 2010 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

BOB SKIDMORE

CORRESPONDENT

Not since the introduction of VHS have I seen a video product generate so much fun, excitement and practicality. FLIP VIDEO™ is a tiny video camcorder smaller than a pack of cigarettes, housed in a rugged designer case that incorporates up to 8gb of built-in memory. Since its launch in 2007, more than 2 million units have been sold. In mid ’09 a new generation was introduced with many improvements and features resulting in four models: ULTRA SD (standard definition), ULTRA HD (high definition), the Mino HD and the Mino. More recently, the SLIDE HD was introduced featuring a 3” widescreen. All models are tripod mountable. The biggest difference between these models is physical size, display size and recording time.

The 6 oz ULTRA series features a 2”diagonal color LCD screen, very high light sensitivity with automatic low light detection, fixed focus f2.4 optics with electronic 2x digital zoom and a choice of a rechargeable, or double “A” battery source for up to 4.5 hours of use per charge and an optional under water housing for under $50. Recording time is two hours.

The 3.3 oz Mino models are available in two record time options, 60 or 120 minutes, feature a 1.5” diagonal color LCD, internal Lithium-ion rechargeable battery (2 Hr. HD/4 Hr. SD). Optics and light characteristics are very similar to the Ultra series.

Reduced size is the big factor here over the ULTRA.

The new SlideHD records up to 4 hours in HD and features a 3” pop-up color display.

(TIP: A caution, the smaller the size of any camera, the more difficult it becomes to operate and keep steady)

The ULTRA and the Mino record in the MPG4 format making them ideal for use with your MAC, or PC. This also means worldwide television standards are not a factor. The FLIP is so well designed you can easily perform many postproduction tasks with the supplied Flipshare software. A click of an icon allows you to email up to ten minutes, 100mb of video, to Flip’s proprietary web site. The recipient receives a link to your video for easy, fast viewing and the clip remains available for up to 500 views, or ninety days, whichever comes first. These clips may even be edited into a movie with dissolves and music. Other icons include a selection of direct links for uploading to Facebook, YouTube, or your own web site. Stills are a snap. The JPEG photos you can capture using the program’s Snap feature have a resolution of 424 x 318 pixels, with full 24-bit color depth. If that’s not enough you can incorporate FLIP footage into non-FLIP projects. (squared5.com/svideo/mpeg-streamclip-mac.html) Casablanca editors can now feed the flip directly into the project with automatic HD>SD conversion when desired. More information is available at: casablancaexpert.com. Other icons allow you to make video greeting cards, directly make a DVD of your video, or create a flip channel to easily and privately share flip content with any group of people you choose and have Flip email them when you add new content. Naturally, you can also save your clips to your hard drive. Mac/PC editing is possible with the use of conversion software easily available on the web.

Connecting your FLIP to your computer is as easy as pushing a button causing a USB 2 connector to flip out, thus the name FLIP VIDEO™. The supplied NTSC cable for SD models and an optional HDMI™ cable for the HD version accomplish connecting to your TV.

My tests revealed the video quality to be exceptional. In all situations the FLIP outperformed my wildest expectations. I have spoken with a producer of documentaries that used FLIP HD footage as “B” roll and intermixed it with broadcast level HD recordings. Results were outstanding. Network newscasts incorporate FLIP footage as do many commercially available DVD’s. The applications are endless. Available at major retailers and on line. More details at theflip.com.

UPDATE: New models, which are available at retail 9/20/10 include two Flip UltraHD models and two Flip MinoHD models, each of which brings new cosmetics and several new features, including a hardware-based always-on image stabilization system for the first time.

MSRP: FLIP ULTRAHD™ $199.99 – FLIP ULTRA™ $149.99 – FLIP MinoHD™ (2 Hr) $229.99 – FLIP Mino™(1 Hr) $199.99 (1 Hr) $199.00 – SlideHD $279.99

FLIP VIDEO™ is a trademark of Cisco

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.

Revised 9/10/2010

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VHS to DVD VIDEO, MADE SIMPLE

VHS to DVD VIDEO, MADE SIMPLE

© 2009 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

BOB SKIDMORE
CORRESPONDENT

It’s a good bet that you’re probably like many other people with a VHS or Betamax tape collection looking for an easy way to preserve tapes to DVD. How to do it, and at what price? ROXIO, the makers of Toast and many other useful software programs, recently introduced EASY VHS to DVD in a MAC and PC edition. Both systems work basically the same way. Since I’m a MAC person, I tested the MAC version.

The kit consists of a USB capture device with composite, S video and stereo RCA audio connections, USB extension cord, plus capture software and a basic version of Toast. Toast is a ROXIO program that makes burning a DVD, on your DVD burner-equipped computer, a snap. Toast is not supplied with the PC version.

Once the operating software is installed, simply plug the capture device into a USB 2.0 port on your computer. The software automatically detects NTSC and PAL sources, so no selection is required to determine the TV standard. When a deck, camcorder or other analog video device is plugged in and the software is selected from the application’s folder you will be directed to a step-by-step setup checklist that allows you to see and hear the source you have plugged in. After everything is verified to be working, you will be asked how long a segment you wish to record and if you would like to automatically stop at that preset time limit. This is a great feature and worth using since video downloads utilize very large amounts of hard drive space, and should you be distracted during the recording process, you won’t fill up the drive. You are also given the choice of quality, standard (1.8 GB per hour), or high quality, (2.7 GB per hour), that are MPEG-2 recordings. The next step is to start the playback of your source material and to start the recording process. Once the recording is completed you have three choices: send to Toast for immediate burning of a DVD; edit with iMovie software which came installed in your MAC, or Creator for PC, and not included in the ROXIO kit; send to QuickTime Player for creation and immediate playback in the QT format, handy for adding to iTunes and then syncing to your iPod or iPhone. If you opt to quit the program in a MAC your movie file will be found under users/name of hard drive/movies/Easy VHS to DVD capture. On a PC look for the file MY VIDEOS.

The use of this kit is so easy and quick, especially since you can make DVD’s without the use of complicated editing software, that copying your analog library becomes a breeze, even for the novice. Prior to purchasing either package be sure to check the system requirements at the ROXIO web site to insure your computer is up to the task.
I give the EASY VHS to DVD system three thumbs up. ROXIO products are available at retail locations and on-line. For more details go to roxio.com.

MSRP: $79.95 (MAC version) and $59.95 (PC version)


Bob Skidmore is a freelance writer who may be contacted at bskidmore@mac.com or twitter.com/bskidmore.

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DECT 6.0 and The VTECH DS6222-5 Cordless Phone

DECT 6.0 - CORDLESS PHONE TECHNOLOGY

and the VTECH DS6222-5 Cordless Phone

© 2009 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

BOB SKIDMORE

CORRESPONDENT

DECT, Digital Enhanced Cordless Telecommunications, 6.0 is a new protocol and frequency standard used for cordless phone transmissions. The 6.0 version is designed for use in the USA, while other versions do exist for other countries and other purposes. The 6.0 version is the next generation step up from the 2.4 and 5.8 GHz systems and is 1.9 GHz. Unlike those systems DECT. 6.0 phones are virtually immune to most local interference including disruption of wireless internet, wi-fi, use. An extra layer of encryption that previous technology did not offer, keeps your personal communications safe and enhances security. The noticeable result is clearer calls without crosstalk interference. The addition of extra handsets is made easier and battery life may be extended as much as 30%.

One manufacturer that offers DECT 6.0 technology is VTECH. I recently tested their newest model, the DS6222-5, a five-handset system that includes a digital answering system. (The last digit indicates the number of handsets in the system) I found the sound quality to be greatly improved and in a 1650 Sq. Ft. condo constructed of steel and concrete walls, the transmission never faded or dropped out, nor were there any dead spots. Entering numbers into the 50 number directory is a snap since all entries made from any handset are automatically updated for use by all other handsets in the system. Handsets are automatically assigned an individual number from 1 – 12 depending on the number of handsets in the system, that appears in the display. A blue backlit display makes for easy visibility of the data information being shown as well as highlighting the numeric keypad in the dark. Incoming calls cause it to light up on all the handsets even when the ringer is turned off. In the event of a power failure, or dead battery, all stored directory information, phone preference settings, outgoing message and recorded messages are retained. An intercom feature allows one handset to contact another, or the transfer of a call to another handset. Some of the other features include: caller ID/call waiting; 14 minute answering machine; handset speakerphone that works exceptionally well; possible addition of optional handsets to a maximum of 12; conference outside calls to other handsets; any key answer; remote message retrieval; handset volume control; last number redial; page/handset locater; selectable ring tones; wall mounting bracket; compatible with hearing aid T-coil.

Two features need improvement. The wall mount bracket needs a compartment, or pocket to hide the excess cables of the line and power cords. The caller ID feature needs to offer a talking capability that announces the name and number of the incoming caller, a feature that is not available on any of the VTECH models, but is available on many competitive brands. I rate this feature high on my list of must haves in this day and age of nuisance calls. One caller ID feature that is nice is that all incoming call numbers are stored for future review unless you delete them. Also, during my two-month test, I had one handset fail. Simply unplugging the battery momentarily reset the phone and corrected the problem, a common solution for most of today’s electronics. It would also be nice if the directory capacity were increased to 100. All things considered I give the VTECH system one thumbs up and DECT 6.0, three thumbs up. VTECH phones are available at retail locations and on-line. For more details go to www.vtechphones.com

MSRP: $129.95

VTECH is a registered trademark of VTECH TELECOMMUNICATIONS, LTD.

Bob Skidmore is a freelance writer who may be contacted at bskidmore@mac.com or twitter.com/bskidmore.

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A GRILL FOR CONDO-DWELLING BAR-B-Q ENTHUSIASTS

© 2009 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

BOB SKIDMORE

CORRESPONDENT

As one who lives in a high rise Florida condominium where gas and charcoal grills are forbidden by law, I find the availability of quality electric grills to be disappointing. Florida, Arizona and California probably lead in such condo-dwellings, but yet try to purchase an electric grill there, it’s near impossible!

In recent years I’ve located and tested a few electric models found on the web. Unfortunately, all were disappointing, including a well-known celebrity brand.

Recently, Weber introduced the Q 140, a moderately priced compact electric grill patterned after their Q Series gas models. This grill features an easily removable aluminum bowl liner that can be lined with foil to make clean up a snap (figure A); a stainless steel rod cooking grate that creates perfect sear marks and is dishwasher safe; 1560 (2000 European model) watts of heat created from two coils that are uniquely configured into six exposed rods that create the most even heat surface I’ve ever experienced in an electric grill (figure A); an over-sized, replaceable grease catch pan that eliminates the mess after the cooking experience. (You can also line this with foil and extend the replacement life of the disposable pan); cast aluminum construction, stainless steal and plastic throughout prevents rust and makes the unit very light weight. The lid has a built-in heat retention liner that reflects the heat back to the food being cooked. This also acts as somewhat of an insulator keeping the heat contained while minimizing the heat on the outer lid surface, a feature not often found on other grills. A multi-adjustable thermostat allows for a variety of heat settings.

Unfortunately, very few factory options are available. While the catalog refers to numerous such items for the “Q” Series, they’re actually referring to non-electric models only. I would like to see a griddle made available. Weber does offer an inexpensive model 6507 rolling cart ($55.00). Since the Q 140 is so compact I found the Rubbermaid # 7085 storage cabinet to work well too ($89.00). The grill nicely sets on the cabinet surface, and is easily stored and protected from the elements on the enclosed shelves below. While not supplied, casters can easily be added by the handy do-it-yourselfer. As for a griddle, several name brands are available. The trick is finding one small enough to fit the cooking grate. The thickness of such griddles prevents keeping the lid closed, thus much heat is lost in the cooking process. While a bit clumsy, I found the Emerileware cast iron reversible grill/griddle to work reasonably well ($35.00). When using any griddle attachment extreme caution should be taken, as the griddle, as well as the Q 140, will be very hot long after the food is cooked and the unit is shut off.

My overall experience was exceptionally good. The grill is extremely well built and virtually rust resistant. It’s very compact and heats up fast and evenly. Clean up is very quick due to the easily accessible and removable parts. I give it three thumbs up, my highest rating. The Q 140 should be typically a retailer item, but be prepared to special order it as I could not locate this model in stock at numerous Weber dealers I visited. Weber has an on-line store, but this item is not a selectable item. They do show a phone number, 800.446.1071 as an alternative to on-line ordering. Amazon U. S. and UK* do list this model. *A 220/240-VAC model is available for the European market. More details available at: weber.com. The Q 140, a well kept secret well worth the effort to locate it!

U. S. MSRP: $279.00

Weber and Q are registered trademarks of Weber-Stephen Products Company

Bob Skidmore is a freelance writer who may be contacted at bskidmore@mac.com or twitter.com/bskidmore.

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ARE “Z buds™” FOR YOU?

© 2009 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

BOB SKIDMORE

CORRESPONDENT

At this year’s Consumer Electronics Show, CES, I had the opportunity to obtain a pair of Z buds™ Music Control™ ear buds manufactured by Zagg. For the uninitiated, ear buds are extremely lightweight headsets that fit in your ear and are used in products such as cell phones, ipods and virtually any other listening device.

Z buds™ were designed primarily for Apple products such as ipods and iphones. (Music Control only works with iphone) These buds and some of their features will, however, work with non-Apple products that use a 3.5mm four conductor mini plug.

The Z buds™ are well designed. They incorporate features like a noise canceling microphone that reduces ambient sounds from overpowering your speech when talking; a click button on the mic’s housing that can turn music on and off, or answer and hang up your phone calls; a two-click feature advances you to the next song; an in-line volume control that readjusts volume when the device’s volume is set to max; multiple sliders for cable length adjustment; a wide selection of ear bud adapters to fit all ears.

I tested these buds under various conditions and found the audio reproduction to be outstanding (30hz to 16Khz). A friend of mine with a hearing loss in one ear used them while driving home and commented that she could hear so much better. It’s important to note that the unique “hangin’ tight” neck-cord feature keeps them in place around your neck. (See illustration above) The materials used to construct the buds are top notch and include a heavy-duty 54” cable. The rugged construction revivals that of units costing many times over the MSRP of $79.95. I give the Z buds™ a thumbs up for a feature packed, quality product at an affordable price. Z buds™ are available with or without a mic, in black, red, yellow or pink at leading retailers and on line, zagg.com.

Apple, iphone and ipod are trademarks of Apple, Inc.

Bob Skidmore is a freelance writer who may be contacted at bskidmore@mac.com, or twitter.com/bskidmore.

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CD/DVD PRINTING MADE EASY

CD/DVD PRINTING MADE EASY

© 2009 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

BOB SKIDMORE

CORRESPONDENT

CD and DVD media storage has become quite the popular method for copying data, audio and video material. The difficulty becomes trying to identify the material once it’s on the disc. Numerous attempts have been made by inkjet printer manufacturers to incorporate disc media into paper fed printers. The problem typically is that mixing paper and disc stock results in ink residue that appears on the next printing job after changing the print stock. Printing on paper labels or stickers that are affixed to Cd and DVD media is not recommended by hardware manufactures as it can jam the recorder/player or create improper balance that results in disc errors. The use of a Sharpie looks very unprofessional and mistakes are not easily corrected. So what’s the solution?

DYMO® has introduced the DiscPainter® that is a low volume USB printer made exclusively for printing on discs. The DiscPainter® interfaces with Windows® and most Mac® OS X systems. Its small size, about like two stacked cigar boxes, allows it to be easily stored with your computer. Unfortunately no power switch is included, something I hope they correct. Printing is accomplished by a “spin on disc system” known as RadialPrint™, that results in very high quality reproduction of up to 1200 dpi. Depending on the quality setting, printing takes place from 1-3 minutes. The DiscPainter® uses one all-color ink cartridge with built-in print head. This is a nice feature since you are automatically getting a new print head with each new ink cartridge replacement thus maintaining high quality printing over the life of the printer. DYMO® tells me that one can expect better than 5000 impressions before printer replacement. Since this unit is not intended as a high volume printer it should provide many years of service. The ink cartridge will last from 100-150 impressions, or more, depending on the quality setting and equal use of colors in the artwork layout. (The use of the high quality setting uses much more ink, creates a thicker coating on the surface which may result in ink cracks and peeling over the life of the disc. This applies to any disc printing device.)

DYMO® includes a feature-packed software program known as Discus®. It can be used as a stand-a-lone creator or with PhotoShop®, PrintShop®, Adobe Illustrator®, InDesign®, QuarkXPress®, and SureThing® just to mention a few. Discus® includes several canvases as general backgrounds. Personally, I’d like to see more backgrounds made available as they speed up the process in making a quick layout. The DiscPainter® printer and Discus® software may be used with many other printers and software programs which makes this product extremely versatile. I was able to print professional quality discs straight out of the box without the use of test prints or lengthy instructions. I give it a thumbs up. Professional quality and good value are the key here! MSRP $279.95. On-line demos available at global.dymo.com

Bob Skidmore is a freelance writer who may be contacted at bskidmore@mac.com

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BUDFITS, A SECURE AND COMFORTABLE WAY TO WEAR EARBUDS.

© 2009 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

BOB SKIDMORE

Correspondent

If you use Apple™ earbuds for listening to your ipod™, or iPhone™ you know the discomfort one can experience wearing them. Earbuds are made from a hard plastic that is wedged into your ear canal. The Budfit is a simple plastic molded device that fits around the rear of the ears. The earbud’s wire slips into a cutout in the mold and the physical earbud slips into the top end. You place the Budfit behind your ears so that the earbud hangs in front of the ear canal opening. You’ll still experience all the fidelity of sounds generated by the earbud with none of the discomfort even though there is a bit of space between you and the earbud. Ambient noise is kept to a minimum, however someone speaking to you, providing the volume is set to a normal listening level, can still be heard.

I’ve tested the Budfits while walking in 35 – 40 mile per hour wind gusts along Florida’s Intercoastal Waterway and had no problem keeping them in position on my ears. Thus, they are great when running, skateboarding or any other fast moving activity. A neat, simple invention that deserves a try. I give them a thumbs up.

Budfits were invented by Innovelis and are only compatible with iPod™ and iPhone™ branded earbuds. They are available at many retailers nationwide, or on line at www.budfits.com.

Bob Skidmore is a freelance writer.

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