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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SQUARE, An Innovation to accepting and using credit cards

SQUARE, An innovation to accepting and using credit cards…

© 2012 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

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)

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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POWER2U and your USB devices

POWER2U and to your USB devices too!

© 2012 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

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.

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