AUDEO – Earphones with filters?
(TIP: If all this sounds confusing go to Audeo’s web site where more information is available. Na.audeoworld.com If necessary you can reach an operator at the call center. 866.900.7174 Be sure to press 0 so as to avoid reaching a hearing aid specialist.)
THE MAGIC WAND – Pocket Sized Copier That Goes Anywhere…
© 2011 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Ever had a situation where you needed a copy, but no copier was available, or the need to copy an unusual surface? VuPoint Solutions has a solution that seems to work well and saves paper too.
Recently I tested their MAGIC WAND, PDS-ST410-VP-BX2, a 10.1”x1”x1.2”, 7.5oz, double AA battery-operated, wand shaped device, that scans in both color and B/W, at 300 or 600 dpi. The JPEG images are stored on a microSD/microSDHC card with a supported capacity as high as 32gb. Data can easily be transferred by the supplied USB 2.0 output to your Mac (10.4+) or PC (Windows XP/7/Vista) without the need for a driver. A multi-functional display indicates modes of operation and capacity.
The unique ability of this scanner is to be able to scan many different formats such as documents, photos and tile surfaces. Imagine seeing wallpaper or a fabric design, being able to scan it so you can locate an exact match. Scans can be up to 8.7” wide and as much as 50” in length at 300dpi, or 25” at 600 dpi.
(TIP: ABBYY OCR Windows’s software is included. Mac users can purchase *ABBYY FineReader Express Edition OCR software at: abbyyusa.com/finereader/express/mac )
My lab tests were positive**. Some uneven surface scans caused the red error light to illuminate, but the scan was actually in tact. Scanned photos were excellent and colors true when compared to the original. Documents were perfect. This is the ideal scanner for people on the go. A great tool for TV and print journalists, researchers, decorators, lawyers, investigators and the home office, too.
(TIP: Best results are achieved when using a flat surface and an even, constant forward motion.)
VuPoint Solutions showed several new, additional, models at January’s CES Show in Vegas. The newest feature is the addition of Bluetooth allowing you to not only store the scan on the data card, but also wirelessly send it to your laptop. Availability of these models is expected June 2011. Current models are available via electronic retailing, on-line and at retail. Additional information at: vupointsolutions.com/
MSRP: PDS-ST410-VP-BX2 $99.00
*ABBYY FineReader Express Edition OCR Mac software $99.00
GADGETEER’S RATING: H H H H H NOT RATED**
** A NOT RATED designation indicates some issue has taken place during the testing of a product. In this case the device performed well over several weeks. However, while writing the article, a final test failed due to the scanner’s inability to power up and the rear AA battery became extremely hot. The manufacturer was notified, a preliminary response received, but no resolution to the problem as of the publication date. If a satisfactory response is received a rating will be applied to any future publication of this review.
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 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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WEB SITE CREATION – Fast, Simple, Inexpensive and Professional Looking…
© 2011 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
BOB SKIDMORE
Have you ever had the desire, or need to create a web site, but didn’t know how. Furthermore, if you did explore the possibility you soon found out that you needed knowledge in something referred to as HTML, HyperText Markup Language, the basic building blocks, code, of creating a site from the ground up. All this sound too complicated? Well it did to me too, and it is.
Karelia Software, creators of Sandvox, a Mac website building application, may just have the answer. Yes, Sandvox is designed around the Mac OSX operating system, but today so many computers are capable of dual platforms, so that this should no longer be an issue unless you have an antique, in which case it’s time to update yourself. I’ve located many programs that claim ease in developing web sites, but nothing comes close to Sandvox.
I tested version 1.6.8, Pro Edition, and also obtained a DVD tutorial, a definite must, to quickly walk you thru the steps. This DVD, also available as a download, takes you thru a chronological series of steps to complete your site. You can run it along side the program while you’re developing the site and not overlook a step. The menu selection and tools are very similar to those used in iWork™, an Apple™ program. The Pro Edition enables advanced features such as raw HTML pages/pagelets and Google integration for higher website visibility. Simply put, you can insert html script provided by others for things like weather and news headlines, or a PayPal link. If you do understand html you can create customized features of your own in far less time.
In order to properly test Sandvox, I created a web site for a small business I operate in my spare time; www.safetymaxtraining.us From start to finish, creation time was just under four hours. I selected a page design theme from the many included. If you don’t find one that suits you, additional themes are inexpensive and readily available from numerous suppliers on line. I easily created a home page with Weather Channel alerts, a FREE service that adds life to the page. Additional informational pages were just as easy to create requiring no expertise other than your creative abilities. A contact me page was a simple selection and allows for customizing to your informational needs. Adding PayPal as a link was clearly explained. A hit counter for each individual page may be added. Layouts for podcasts and bloggers are also included. Photos, graphics video and audio clips are easily inserted.
(TIP: By making a screen-shot of your theme page, minus content, you can create consistency for things like stationary, fliers and postcards and maintain a professional look throughout all your marketing pieces.)
Once your site is complete you’re only a few clicks away from publishing, providing you have a host. The host is the site that your site is published to and accessed by your audience. These steps are easily explained in the tutorial. Once published, it’s easy to make corrections, delete or add pages and change just about anything you like without loosing your unchanged content, hit counter, links or graphics. All you do is go back to the publishing button and follow the prompts.
(TIP: Be sure that the host you’ve chosen gives you all the log-on information required to publish. Without that you can’t complete the final publishing step.)
Sandvox provides you with tools to assist in gaining high search engine visibility and are inserted as you create the site. Also included in the Pro Edition is Google integration to maximize the visibility of your site, understand who’s visiting it, know where your visitors are coming from, discover what’s bringing them to you and know how long they look at each page. These features are not commonly found in other preformatted creation software.
In preparing for this article I needed a host. After much research I chose justhost.com , located in the UK. They were ranked in first place on a “top-ten” list I read, offer FREE domain name registration, unlimited email accounts and unlimited GB’s of space. If you commit to a four-year contract your monthly cost is only $4.45. They offer both live chat and email support, both of which are excellent, but I prefer the email method as it allows them time to study your question before replying.
Previously I mentioned the use of a theme in collateral material. I located a printer at www.nextdayflyers.com/ that provides doubled-sided, color, glossy 14 PT ultra-thick postcards at $46.00 for 1000. The price, print quality and service are exceptional!
Whether your need is personal, blogging or commercial, Sandvox is the simple way to create professional looking web sites. I can’t emphasize enough how impressed I am with the ease of its use and support. In the months to come they will release version 2.0 along with an accompanying tutorial that I anticipate testing. So…. create, don’t hesitate!
MSRP: Version 1.6.8 Standard Edition $57.00 – Pro Edition $97.00
*Tutorial DVD $179.00 – Download considerably less
*Currently not available until new version’s release. Price expected to remain the same.
Available on-line www.karelia.com/sandvox/
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.
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CES – THE WORLD’S STAGE FOR GADGETS…
© 2011 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
BOB SKIDMORE
Each year in early January thousands of entrepreneurs, manufacturers, dealers and press descend on Las Vegas for the show of shows in electronic gadgetry known as CES, the Consumer Electronics Show. With some 140,000 attendees and 2700 plus exhibits, “what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas”, does not apply, at least the manufacturers hope not.
(TIP: If you do attend, be sure to bring some good walking shoes. You’ll get a good workout and be thankful you did!)
This show is so big that often times the little guy gets lost in the shuffle, so I will mention a few goodies from these global participants. First, however, I need to mention a couple of show standouts.
Ford Motor Company officially introduced the 2012 Focus Electric. The Focus Electric runs entirely on electricity stored in powerful batteries and can go a distance of about 100 miles before recharging. A unique feature is an app for Smartphones that lets you monitor and schedule the charging status, driving range, charging locations, other than your home, vehicle location and much more. Release date late 2011. http://bit.ly/fCxSMU
Whirlpool demonstrated the MHW9000X Maxima™ washer and the ME/GD9000X EcoConserve™ dryer. They use up to 82% less water and 86% less electricity. Its PowerWash™ system dispenses 6X HE concentrated detergent. The LCD display prompts the user to dispense the proper amount based on contents, load and stains. A combination of suggested pre-treatment and the on-board computer remove such stains as coffee, peanut butter or jam. Release date is April 2011 at select Sears stores with a price range of $1500 - $2000 depending on capacity and base. Note: Whirlpool and Maytag are one of the same. These products currently do not show up on their web site and may be limited to Sears’ site in the future. http://bit.ly/aVJvkl
Probably the biggest presence was in 3D displays by Sony, Panasonic, JVC and LG, some of which were glass-less. The big three also showed 3D camcorders. In my opinion, 3D is still a work in progress. While readily available at a price, pictures are often fuzzy, or blurred and the use of glasses is a nuisance to those already wearing eyewear. The glass-less displays shown at LG were not too bad, but required viewing dead center to see the effect.
Many health related devices and aps were shown which monitor many of your vital signs and make them available to your iPhone. Primpo showed the iSonic cane which detects obstacles, colors and darkness/brightness and informs you thru vibrations at different strengths. Currently not available in the U. S. as they are seeking a U. S. partner/distributor.
Casio showed several new still cameras featuring various imaging correction and enhancement tools such as making a print look like an oil painting. They announced a FREE web site, available in late February, where anyone may go and utilize these tools with their old digital photos not necessarily shot on a Casio camera. http://bit.ly/gS2AEC
UltraTek displayed their new dual sided USB connector. This connector allows the user to plug into any USB port without considering plug orientation and polarity. It’s totally reversible! Available now. http://bit.ly/fqQctf
NiteIze showed some unique reusable rubber twist tie wraps that are very strong, easy to open/close and available in various sizes. They’re also entering the “lace-Lock” business, a simple device that replace the traditional knot used in tying your tennis shoes. http://bit.ly/aLoaJp
3M presented the PocketProjector MP180. This product includes 4GB of built-in memory allowing storage of data files while also allowing access to the internet and other devices by means of wi-fi and Bluetooth technology. Equipped with speakers, 2 hours of battery life, up to an 80” diagonal projected screen size and 32 lumens of brightness, 11.9 oz, SVGA (800x800), 1.3h x 5.9d x 2.5”w, in/out: VGA, composite & component, USB mini, NTSC 480i-480p, PAL 576i-576p, H.264, SD 480i-576i, HD 720p/1080i. Available now. ($499.00) http://bit.ly/c56LGM
Big Stream demonstrated a Bluetooth device that interfaces with iPod, iPhone and iPad, allowing the streaming of video information into your TV’s component input. The streamer plugs in to your i device, streams to a pocket sized receiver which interfaces to your TV. Depending on the video source, picture quality was acceptable. $99.00 http://bit.ly/gD06wK
iDevices introduced the iGrill cooking thermometer. This probe sends cooking data such as temperature, remaining cooking time, etc., to your iPhone via an app. http://bit.ly/gD06wK
iTwin once again showed their Remote File Access USB device that permits accessing your files and folders on another computer. The PC version is now available with a MAC version coming soon. The device can easily be moved from computer-to-computer. $99.00 http://www.itwin.com/
Tiffen demo’ed their Dfx V 2.0 filter software, which permits adding filter effects normally associated with lens filters and special effects to your stills. A must have for the serious photographer/graphic artist. Downloadable as plug-in, or stand-alone PC/MAC $149.95 http://www.tiffen.com/dfx_v2_home.html
(TIP: If you would like to attend CES in 2012 as a guest you may do so by purchasing a guest ticket for the last show day, typically a Sunday. Such passes are in high demand and limited, so best to make arrangements early. http://www.cesweb.org/ Watch for the 2012 update)
In the months that follow I will be reviewing many products shown at this year’s CES from various manufacturers, so stay tuned!
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.
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PANASONIC’S CORDLESS “PHONE OF THE FUTURE”
© 2011 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
BOB SKIDMORE
Over the years I’ve tested numerous cordless phones, but Panasonic’s latest KX-TG series, appears to be a real winner. Here are just a few of the outstanding features:
Dect 6.0 Plus, increases error correction thus improving the phone’s transmission range without interfering with other common wireless devices.
Intelligent Eco Mode, lowers battery consumption when handset is within close proximity of the base unit.
Call Block, allows you to program in numbers from unwanted callers such as telemarketers, bill collectors or just plain nuisance calls. Simply program in the number after the first call and the caller will now receive a busy signal on all future calls until you deprogram. A GREAT feature and well worth the price of the phone itself.
Silent Mode, permits programming to ring only when convenient so as to not disturb sleep, etc.
Talking Caller ID, is another feature that makes this phone priceless. This feature announces who’s calling after the second ring. It can be programmed individually, or for up to six instruments.
Locater button, finds misplaced handsets
Additional features, more common with other brands of cordless phones, include an 18 minute answering machine, handset locator, intercom, up to 4-way conference capability, 50 number directory that may be grouped, speaker phone headset jack and ringer ID for easy identification of favorite callers.
A step up model, KX-TG6583T, features Link-To-Cell, a technology that connects Bluetooth®-enabled cell phones thus allowing you to make and receive calls on the system’s handset from your cellular phone. I did not test this model.
(TIP: Periodically allow the instrument to fully discharge before returning to the charger unit. This will prolong battery life.)
I tested the model KX-TG6545, a five-handset package. All the features worked exceptionally well. Again, the Talking Caller ID and call-block make this cordless phone bundle an outstanding choice. I also like the addition of a headphone jack since when talking with technical support services, etc., you can easily listen/talk hands-free while working out the support issue. Requires an optional headphone/mic such as the KX-TCA60. As I’ve mentioned in other reviews of similar products I would like to see a 75 – 100 number directory, a feature that should not be difficult for the manufacturer to incorporate.
(TIP: This phone does offer a speakerphone feature, however, all speakerphones can present sound issues depending on your proximity to the instrument. Therefore the use of a headphone/mic makes perfect sense for this purpose. Panasonic offers several styles of accessory headphone/mics. To ensure compatibility stick with their accessory model suggestions.)
Additional handsets may be added to existing systems for up to six instruments.
MSRP:
KX-TG6545 5-handset bundle $159.95
KX-TG6583T “Link-To-Cell” 3-handset bundle $199.95
KX-TCA60 headset/mic $14.95
Available on-line and at retail outlets.
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.
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SCANNING 35mm SLIDES & FILM MADE SIMPLE
© 2010 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Most of us probably have an attic, or garage full of old family 35mm slides. Even when slides were in vogue they required hauling out the projector, a screen and if you wanted prints your local photo processor had to convert them to a negative format. Typically some quality was lost in the process. So what’s the easiest way to salvage these precious moments? VuPoint Solutions may just have your answer.
MSRP: $129,95 Available on-line and at retail outlets.
GADGETEER’S RATING: H H H H H
ROXIO TOAST TITANIUM 10 PRO
© 2010 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
BOB SKIDMORE
Burning media should be an easy task. If you own a MAC such software is included with your computer, so why the need for anything else? In today’s computer world, MAC or PC, there are so many variables and features that it makes sense to install software specific to the task. Roxio has long been a leader in such software solutions including its most recent bundle, TOAST 10 TITANIUM PRO. While this article reviews TOAST 10 TITANIUM PRO, a bundle, you should be aware that the plug-ins making up this package are in most cases individually available for both the PC and MAC.
TOAST 10 TITANIUM PRO is made up of five main programs making it a powerhouse of creative and processing tools. While not the developer of all these programs, Roxio has teamed up with the various manufacturers to offer the user the opportunity to test drive products at a very minimal cost. Many of the programs included are considered “light”, however, more advanced versions and upgrades are available from the software providers. In many cases, the “light” versions will demonstrate the power of the program, but also will more than meet, or exceed the needs of the user.
(TIP: Roxio Toast 10 Titanium Pro, a bundle, is available for the MAC. The PC version, Roxio Creator 2011 PRO, is very similar. Users interested only in a specific application and not a bundle, can purchase the individual programs from the appropriate developer directly.)
Some of what’s included:
Roxio: Normal disc burning software. Extract clips from DVD-Video discs and convert to the format of your choice. Fit-to-DVD™ compression technology fits a 9 GB DVD-Video onto a 4.7 GB disc. File recovery for damaged discs. High-Def/Bluray disc plug-in allowing you to author ACVHD™ HD video to standard DVDs for playback on Bluray players. (Note, depending on compression used, time limitations do exist.) Ability to author HD video to Bluray discs. AVCHD™ Archive makes it one-step simple to back up an entire camera of HD video to disc. Synch up folders bi-directionally between multiple computers, networks, or external hard disks. Automatically catalog your discs as you burn them with photo thumbnails saved for easy browsing. Schedule backup sessions to any hard drive, or network, or burn to CD/DVD, or Bluray disc. Media browser with file browsing data filters and Spotlight search. Extract clips from DVD-Video discs and convert to the format of your choice. Automatically capture & tag streaming Internet audio. Send captured audio to iTunes® as AAC, Apple® lossless, or MP3. Convert audio from vinyl LPs and tapes to CD/ DVD, and iPod. Capture streaming Internet audio - or any sound - as you hear it with one click. Save web video from your favorite web sites to view on TV or on-the-go. Watch video files on your Mac right on your TV with Mac2TiVo. Stream TV and video from your Mac to your iPhone™, Mac or PC over the Internet.
Sonicfire® Pro: Create professional custom soundtracks for movies and slideshows. Allows you to build unique length tracks for music themes, beds and stings.
(TIP: The pro version offers numerous optional libraries of various music and theme beds.)
SoundSoap: Remove noise from analog or digital recordings. Removes hiss, room noise, rumble, electrical hum, & other background noise from most digital media files. Solves most simple noise problems with the Learn Noise button. Powerful fine tuning offers even better sound results. Perfect for vinyl transfers. This program is worth its weight in gold as it’s easy to use, and works!
FotoMagico™: Turn pictures into stories and present them in HD using your computer as the presenter. Note: Has the ability to be burned on a disc, but quality is greatly reduced.
LightZone™: Create dramatic, corrected photos with professional quality light and color balance. Supports RAW, JPEG, TIFF and PNG formats. Change exposure without changing color and vice-versa. This program is fantastic! Having it available for correcting your photos is invaluable. Truly a must-have for the photographer and graphic artist.
(TIP: All programs require time to master and fully appreciate. It would be wise to go to the individual developer’s web site and follow their tutorials. Here’s a link to an excellent free tutorial for FotoMagico by a nondeveloper: ehow.com/video_4992776_fotomagico-tutorial-creating-project.html )
Roxio’s TOAST 10 TITANIUM PRO, is all-inclusive. In writing a review such as this I’m limited to how detailed I can become. However, that said, there is something here for everyone. I’ve used all these programs and find them well worth the investment.
(TIP: Most developers of third-party applications included in Toast 10 Titanium Pro, offer attractive incentives, or upgrade pricing to Roxio customers, so be sure to check third-party developer sites for details if you want to step it up a notch. See links below.)
MSRP: $149.95 (Various incentives and rebates available. Shop this one to come up with the best deal.) Available on-line and at retail outlets.
Supporting web sites:
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.
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