Tuesday, May 1, 2012

iTwin, Accessing files on multiple computers made easy

iTwin, Accessing files on multiple computers made easy…

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

Sunday, April 1, 2012

SQUARE, An Innovation to accepting and using credit cards

SQUARE, An innovation to accepting and using credit cards…

BOB SKIDMORE

CORRESPONDENT

The acceptance and use of credit cards has become a necessity for many merchants and consumers alike. Unfortunately, the small or home business is typically left out due to monthly fees, transaction fees, equipment rental charges, volume and high percentage-of-transaction costs. SQUARE may have developed just the solution that works with AMEX, MC, VISA and Discover.

(TIP: Smartphone compatibility: iPhone, iPad and Android.)

Jim McKelvey, a glass maker, and Jack Dorsey, co-founder of Twitter, have incorporated smartphone technology into a service that makes accepting credit cards available to the smallest business. The number of transactions and dollar amounts do not play a role. Here’s how it works. To open your merchant account you simply apply on line by supplying your business name, mailing address and banking information. Once this has been verified and you agree to the terms, two test deposits are made to your checking account. When received, you return these deposits via your smartphone. You have now verified that your account works, so SQUARE will mail you a FREE miniature card reader that plugs into your smartphone’s audio jack. At this point you are operational and can actually accept card transactions by *manually inputting the cardholder’s account number until your reader arrives.

(TIP: Presently, SQUARE’s services only work with U. S. issued cards. Plans call for accepting Canadian and European cards sometime in the future.)

There are two ways to complete a transaction. You can simply slide the card in the reader or you can *manually enter in the information. In either case, all details are sent to Square. You may also opt to have a receipt emailed or texted to the customer with a copy sent to you. Your funds, minus the percentage fee, will be in your account in less than 24 hours and you can check your account status on-line at any time. It’s as simple as that and my tests show it works!

(TIP: Card swipe fees are 2.75% while *manual entry fees are 3.5% + a 15¢ transaction fee and, naturally, are subject to change with market conditions. So, swipe when possible to avoid the higher cost. Either of these charges are very competitive)

Square has also introduced SQUARE CARD CASE, a service where customers can link their credit cards to their smartphones. Just turn on the CARD CASE app, select a merchant’s tab and enable automatic tabs. CARD CASE knows when you’re nearby and opens their tab automatically. Give the cashier your name at checkout and pay without touching your phone or wallet.

Card readers available FREE from SQUARE on-line, or at retail locations at a nominal charge. The SQUARE service opens the door to accepting credit cards to the small home business as well much larger merchants at affordable rates and its portability means you can complete transactions on the go.

Further details:

Merchant information: squareup.com

Cardholder information: squareup.com/cardcase/tabs

GADGETEER’S RATING: • • • • •

Postscript: Two similar services have recently been announced; PayAnywhere, payanywhere.com and PayPal, paypal.com (> products > virtual)

Thursday, March 1, 2012

POWER2U and your USB devices

POWER2U and to your USB devices too!

BOB SKIDMORE

CORRESPONDENT

How many times have we said, “Why didn’t I think of that”? Newertechnologies has just such a product in the Power2U AC/USB wall outlet. The Power2U is a very simple solution to charging your USB powered devices while eliminating the clutter of un-slightly power adapters and freeing your wall outlets for more power consuming items. It features two 3.0/2.0 USB ports and two standard three-prong outlets all in the same faceplate that are not intended for outdoor use.

The Power2U receptacle replaces the present 110/120 volt outlet in many wall outlet boxes. A few simple connections and the installation is complete. Now you can charge such items as smartphones, iPads and video pocket digital cameras. All you need is the matching USB cable supplied with your device. It does not charge laptops.

(TIP: While the supplied instructions and the on-line video are exceptionally good, if you are the least bit apprehensive about working with electrical connections, call a licensed electrician! Always turn the power off prior to working with any exposed electrical wires or devices!)

Sounds good, and it is, however using existing outlet boxes may be a possible problem. The manufacturer provides excellent instructions and does state that a minimum 16 cubic inch electrical box is required. Here’s the catch, such boxes probably do not generally exist in older construction or in many condos. If your box interfaces with conduit you may also have a space problem due to the connection hardware used. Replacing such boxes may not be possible due to the type of wall construction. However, where there’s a will there is usually a way. In this case purchasing a surface mount box with an external entry port may resolve the issue and even make for a nice extension cord.

(TIP: A Carlon E980DFN ½” 1-gang rigid non-metallic conduit switch box, found in most large home supply stores, will accommodate the Power2U outlet since the conduit entry is external and it is designed for external mounting. The entry hole can be plugged with a Mueller (B&K) ½” plug (449-005HC) found in the plumbing department. Once inserted, you need only puncture a small hole to accommodate the size wire used and attach a small cable tie around the interior cable portion to act as a cable restraint.)

(TIP: Cable used for this device should be a 12 gauge minimum. The outlet will accept up to 10 gauge. Remember, the cable gauge determines the maximum amount of current your outlet can safely handle. Do not cram cables and/or wire nuts in the box as this can present a hazard too.)

The Power2U outlet works very well. It saves space and energy. The USB ports feature a Smart Power design that only outputs enough charging power required by the attached device, while spring-loaded Safety Shutters turn power the off to the USB ports eliminating energy draw when a connecting cable is removed. Its design and construction is well thought out right down to supplying white caps to cover the mounting screws. Power2U is a quality product!

(TIP: If either or both USB ports are not working test the ports by removing the faceplate, plugging in a USB device and pressing in the plunger switch next to the port. If you hear the charging alert tone from your device the port is working indicating the faceplate was not seated properly against the Power2U outlet.)

MSRP: $29.95

Available at retail locations and on-line. More details available at: http://www.newertech.com/products/power2u.php

GADGETEER’S RATING: H H H H H (Power2U outlet)

GADGETEER’S RATING: H H H (Compatibility with existing boxes)

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. Any tips or suggestions are simply that and thus the GADGETEER does not assume any responsibility for the installation or improper use by the reader of the Power2U. When in doubt, the reader should consult and/or hire a licensed electrician for professional advice and installation. 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.

Wednesday, February 1, 2012

CES 2012, Gadget Heaven

CES 2012, Gadget Heaven…

BOB SKIDMORE

CORRESPONDENT

It’s been said that CES, the Consumer Electronics Show, may be on the decline with a questionable future. Well, you certainly would not know it based on its all time record-breaking attendance of 153.000+ attendees. In fact, it almost looked like the Detroit Auto Show with additional exhibits from Ford, Mercedes and KIA, a company that opted to skip Detroit and put all its efforts into CES.

Personally, I think Ford stole the show with the introduction of the Fusion Energi plug-in hybrid that’s expected to get more than 100 MPGe, based on averaging the combination of gas, hybrid, and plug-in electric energy sources. In addition, Ford has incorporated “SYNC with MyFord Touch®” that allows access of important features via touch controls and voice commands. Further more, expanded production will soon commence at its plant in Flat Rock, MI making this an all-American car. Guesstimated price $22,000. Kudos to Ford for this most innovative and affordable approach and for keeping it in America! ford.com/cars/fusion/2013/

There were no major innovations. LG showed some pricy, razor thin flat screens incorporating black as an additional primary color, while other manufacturers came pretty close size wise. Samsung demonstrated their line of Smart TV’s that incorporate features such as SKYPE enhancing the visual communications experience. Also interesting was that Polaroid was displaying and actively marketing all lengths of VHS tape, a product that has long since seen better days.

On the more practical side, THE GADGETEER’S picks for unusual and interesting gadgets at CES 2012 are:

Mustek: iPad Docking Scanner S4000. mustek.com/

DOT: Snap DOT onto your iPhone 4 or 4S, load their app and shoot 360° panoramic video. kogeto.com/

Penclic Wireless Mouse: The R2 is a mouse built into a pen for MAC/PC that operates on almost any surface with 5 buttons and a scroll wheel. penclic.se/

Wi-Fi Magic Wand by VuPoint: Scans onto a microSD card and transfers files via Wi-Fi. vupointsolutions.com/browse.php?cat=new&page=PDSWF-ST44-VP

iTwin: USB dongle provides secure access to a computer’s hard drive from any other computer with a web connection. itwin.com

CASIO GB-6900 watch: Bluetooth Smart G-Shock watch: Many outstanding features including notification of incoming calls/email/text and time synch from your smart phone. youtube.com/watch?v=Au0IhXSLa-8

Lowel “Blender”: Intuitive LED portable video light providing color temperature ranges from daylight to tungsten with two rotary controls for use with video and film applications. lowel.com/blender/

Biscitti TV Phone:. Turns your TV into a videophone. Works with Gmail and Google Talk. biscotti.com/

Newertechnology: Power2U™, a UL approved wall outlet incorporating two USB charging devices. Eliminates the need for bulky plug-in charging units. newertech.com/products/power2u.php

EcoPac/EcoPlug: Improves electrical consumption efficiency of certain appliances resulting in lower energy costs, perhaps a new approach to a technology that’s been around for a while. Also shown, LED tubes that replace the florescent tube type bulb. ecowattplug.com/

Miracle LED: LED lamps that look like incandesant lamps, but put out brighter light, low-heat and energy saving. miracleled.com/

Roku 2: Mini streaming device that includes many film and gaming services. roku.com/

I will be reviewing many of these items in the coming months, as they become available. In the meantime, the associated web sites shown provide interesting details. So, from Las Vegas with tired feet, I’ll return next month with my usual product reviews. THE GADGETEER

Post Script: Here’s a last minute addition of something interesting, but not as yet reviewed by the GADGETEER: SnapIt, a PC ONLY software program that captures anything you see on your PC screen. It’s a convenient tool for graphic designers and bloggers who capture and crop images for their posts, for tech writers who need to describe menus and interfaces of applications, web designers and those who work with graphics every day. It captures and auto saves images with one click. It’s for PC users only since the Apple platform already incorporates a similar feature in its OS. However, could be an important addition to dual-platform MACS on the Window’s side. SnapIt supports hotkeys, auto-saving, clipboard. It automatically copies screenshots to the clipboard,tracks capture history, auto-saves captured images and saves files in BMP, GIF, JPEG, PNG and TIFF formats . It also auto-names captured images. digeus.com/products/snapit/snapit_screen_capture_3_5.html

Sunday, January 1, 2012

NEAT, The Neat Scanner…

NEAT, The Neat Scanner…

BOB SKIDMORE

CORRESPONDENT

One might think a scanner is a scanner, after all other than dpi ranges (dots per inch quality specs), what else could they possibly do? Along comes the NEATDESK, available in both Intel MAC and PC versions, a scanner that thinks for itself. Not only is the hardware unique, but the software is outstanding.

The NEATDESK PDF scanner is an automatic multi-voltage desktop unit that looks and acts like much higher priced scanners found in hospitals and doctor’s offices. It has the ability of scanning 15 documents as assembled, or by removing the paper guide, a very easy task, increasing the capacity to 50 single pages or 100 double-sided. Now that may sound similar to other scanners, but this scanner spits them out faster than you could grab them. It’s reminiscent of Lucille Ball at the candy factory. Yes, it does take a few extra moments for the processor to translate all these pages before making them readable.

(TIP: The speed of your computer’s processor determines how quickly translation will take place. Older computers or lower end models may take quite a bit longer to digest all the data. )

The NEATDESK is not limited to letter sized sheets. The supplied guide plate has two additional partitions allowing for multiple small receipts and business card insertion. This feature works well with the Intelligent Text Recognition technology built-in to the included NeatWorks software that exports these items to a digital filing system you can create in your computer.

(TIP: The business card partition was specifically designed for card stock, however, thin flexible plastic stock may be scanned as long as there is no raised or embossed lettering as found on credit cards. Such cards could damage the precision optical reader.)

Also included is the ability to stack up to 50 single-sided/100 double-sided scans into one document. Typically, such features require the purchase of additional programs designed for the enhancement of the PDF format. Quality settings include B/W document, image and, color.

(TIP: Scanning into the NeatWorks application is set at a maximum of 300 dpi. The scanner itself is capable of higher resolution, however, the software will always capture at 300, which is what gives the best combination of speed and accuracy for OCR (optical character recognition). B/W IMAGE is 8 bits, 256 shades of gray and approximately 6 – 8 times higher in file storage size. B/W text is only two bits and is the smallest file size.)

(TIP: Steps to scan an IMAGE on a MAC and save to various formats such as JPEG: Press SCAN on scanner, then MENU select COLOR or B/W, IMAGE ONLY, Direct to PDF file, Combine or Separate, Single or Double-sided, Remove Blank Pages, Scan, Save As. Once saved on your computer double click on the file and it opens in PREVIEW. Now pull down FILE, select SAVE AS and select the format, ie: JPEG, you wish to have it in.)

To summarize, the NEATDESK scanner does not replace a flatbed model used for graphic and Photoshop type applications. However for routine scans you can’t beat it’s speed, quality and document stack ability. The quality of text, image and color reproductions is outstanding! I’ve tested this unit for 6 months and have done hundreds of transcripts without one single hick-up. There are several brief tutorials on line as well as printed documentation included with the unit. It’s all useful, but too brief. I would like to see a CD or DVD supplied with the unit that goes into much greater step-by-step detail thus enhancing the experience. This is an outstanding value for the money!

MSRP: $399.00

Available at retail locations and on-line.

http://www.neat.com/products/neatdesk

GADGETEER’S RATING: H H H H H

Thursday, December 1, 2011

PHOTO CUBE Printer for Smart Phones

PHOTO CUBE, A Printer for the iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch 4 and Android

BOB SKIDMORE

CORRESPONDENT

The recent introduction of the new iPhone 4s has once again demonstrated the unique features such products offer. Many third-party manufacturers have jumped on the technology bandwagon by offering useful byproducts to enhance the experience. One such product is the PHOTO CUBE printer by VuPoint Solutions.

The PHOTO CUBE, actually in the shape of a cube, is a dye sublimation thermal transfer printer designed to reproduce 300dpi, 4 x 6” color prints. Products like the iPhone/iPad and Android smartphones offer high-resolution built-in cameras, but no direct printer capability, so the PHOTO CUBE is an easy solution.

(TIP: Compatibility: (IOS 3.0 and above) - iPod Touch 2^nd, 3^rd & 4^th generation; iPhone 4, 3GS, 3G; iPad) (Android smartphones – OS 2.0 and higher)

It’s simple to use, but it does require a free download from the Apple App store. Once you’ve downloaded the app, install the starter ink/paper cartridge that simply slides into the cube. An iPhone, iPod or Android smartphone can now be docked to the standard connector located on top of the printer. If you’re connecting an iPad, simply use the USB cable supplied with your iPad and plug in into the side-mounted USB port. Since there is not a power switch, just plug the power cable into your mains (variable 100 – 240vac) outlet and you’re set to go.

Select the app on your device, then follow the menu options to locate or take the photo of your choice. Prior to printing you have a layout option that allows a full bleed 4 x 6” photo, or 4 or 10 images per sheet. Select the number of copies, up to 4, and press print. Since the cube uses dye sublimation thermal transfer technology the paper will move in and out five times which takes about 55 seconds excluding data processing time.

(TIP: When selecting the multiple, or partitioning feature you may select different photos to be printed on the same sheet. The four-image selection is perfect for making wallet size photos. Since the paper is not perforated for this purpose you will need to make two clean cuts. For precise cuts I would suggest the use of a paper trimmer, which usse a sharp blade as opposed to a paper cutter, or scissors.)

The print quality is outstanding with vivid colors and no focus issues. They are every bit as good as those available at various photo kiosks. The per print cost may be higher than at such places, but the trade-off may be the immediacy of high quality print reproduction. I find this accessory to be virtually flawless and a worthwhile addition to your communication’s device. For more information: http://bit.ly/rQLLcD

MSRP: $99.00 (Ink/Paper cartridge $24.95 for 36 prints)

Available at retail locations, on-line and electronic retail

GADGETEER’S RATING: H H H H H

Tuesday, November 1, 2011

STEVE JOBS' TRIBUTE

STEVE JOBS

BOB SKIDMORE

CORRESPONDENT

I’ve been writing articles under THE GADGETEER byline for over thirty years. In that time, I’ve seen many entrepreneurs come and go. Steve Jobs, however, was a one-of-a-kind, a designer, marketer, businessman and most of all, a visionary extraordinaire who saw a need before we even knew it was one. It is therefore fitting and proper that I dedicate this month’s column to Steve Jobs who inspired the world and me with his technology.

Since the sixties when America launched the space program many have continued to say, “what a waste of time and money”. Over the past fifty years we’ve reaped the benefits of this challenge with advances in many areas of our daily lives, not to mention the careers that were created from numerous spin-offs.

Steve Jobs, the visionary, carried the torch. His technological designs opened the doors for others to become motivated and create many of the advanced gadgetry that we’ve all become accustomed to enjoy in our daily lives. He was never afraid of competition. He thrived on it! To this end Steve was not satisfied to be the sole visionary at Apple, but rather, to create an atmosphere to encourage inquiring minds to think out-of-the box.

He quietly established an executive training program known as Apple University at his company. His goal was to get Apple executives to think like him. This foresight on his part will keep Apple a leader in the technology we all have come to expect, long after his departure. Steve may be gone in mind, but he will always be with us in spirit.

He was once asked about how much market research went into the iPad, Steve said "None. It's not the customers' jobs to know what they want." But while Apple may not have done any market research, it did plenty of advertising. They produced some of the most creative ads. Who can forget the “I’m a PC and I’m a MAC” campaign, or the third-quarter of the 1984 Super Bowl ad that started it all? His creativity was not limited to products.

Sony Pictures is so impressed with his life and contributions that they plan to produce a film of his life story. It’s a pity that Steve’s not here to enjoy all the well deserved kudos.

Nineteen-year-old Jonathan Mal, a Hong Kong design student, came up with the creative design above incorporating Steve Jobs’ silhouette into the existing bite of the Apple logo. What a tribute befitting the cofounder of Apple. Let’s hope it becomes Apple’s new symbol. You may not be an Apple user, but one thing’s certain, Steve’s affected all our lives in some way forever and that’s something reflected in this quote: “To stand in the shadows is to be seen, To stand full-square in the Sun is to be judged”, author unknown.

This says it all: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bwtzLFKytCU

Steve Jobs, RIP!

(STEVE JOBS, a biography, written by Walter Isaacson, is now published and available at book stores and on-line. Also available, mid November 2011, I, STEVE JOBS, IN MY OWN WORDS, a collection of Jobs-Isms, edited by George Beahm, published by Agate B2 Books.)

Tuesday, May 1, 2012

iTwin, Accessing files on multiple computers made easy

BOB SKIDMORE

CORRESPONDENT

Sunday, April 1, 2012

SQUARE, An Innovation to accepting and using credit cards

CORRESPONDENT

Thursday, March 1, 2012

POWER2U and your USB devices

CORRESPONDENT

Wednesday, February 1, 2012

CES 2012, Gadget Heaven

CORRESPONDENT

Sunday, January 1, 2012

NEAT, The Neat Scanner…

CORRESPONDENT

Thursday, December 1, 2011

PHOTO CUBE Printer for Smart Phones

CORRESPONDENT

Tuesday, November 1, 2011

STEVE JOBS' TRIBUTE

CORRESPONDENT

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