dB Logic debuts new headphones, earphones
dB Logic (http://www.dblogic.com) has announced what it says the world’s first family of no-battery-required, ultra-low distortion sound pressure level limiting headphones and earphones for teens and adults.
The headphones and earphones with SPL2 technology are designed to help protect users from long-term hearing damage, according to the folks at dB Logic. In addition, the company is also launching “dB Logic for Kids,” the first family of headphones with SPL2 technology designed for children.
dB Logic’s proprietary sound pressure level (SPL) limiting technology, SPL2, limits volume levels and provides consumers with a low-distortion listening experience. Additionally, dB Logic headphones and earphones integrate a SPL2 monitoring circuit that regulates the volume where needed, while still keeping the musical content largely unchanged.
dB Logic headphones and earphones for adults will be available in early November on the dB Logic web site and from selected retailers with manufacturer...
Nikon releases D7000 D-SLR
Nikon (http://www.nikonusa.com) has introduced the D7000 digital SLR camera, which can take 16.2-megapixel photos and full HD (High Definition) movies. It sports a new 16.2-megapixel CMOS sensor with low-light ability that the folks at Nikon say have never before seen in a DX-format (APS-C) camera.
The new EXPEED 2 image-processing engine fuels the enhanced performance of the D7000 along with a new 39-point AF system and 2,016 pixel RGB 3D Matrix Metering System to deliver high image quality in a variety of shooting conditions. Additionally, the D7000 D-SLR provides full 1080p HD movie capability with full-time auto focus (AF).
The D7000 D-SLR camera will be available throughout the U.S. beginning mid-October at a manufacturer's suggested retail price of US$1,199.95 for the body only and $1499.95 for body and lens outfit that includes the AF-S DX Zoom-NIKKOR 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR lens.
Targus announces three new laptop cooling devices
Targus (http://www.targus.com) has announced three new cooling devices designed for the traveler, gamer and casual user, as well as new iPad accessories.
The US$59.99 HD3 Gaming Chill Mat (pictured) is designed specifically to cool up to 18-inch high-performance gaming laptops. Its cooling system features three quiet fans with sealed shafts. An adjustable fan speed dial features tactile control for adjusting the cooling level without taking your eyes off of the laptop screen, while airflow straighteners reduce air turbulence for more efficient cooling. The non-skid elastomer feet provide a stable grip
The $29.99 Travel Chill Mat is sized specifically for travel, fitting in a laptop case or backpack. It uses dual fans to disperse heat and provide ventilation. Its ergonomic work surface is designed to cushion your lap and provide a pain-free typing angle while rubber stops prevent slippage. The Travel Chill Mat.
The $39.99 Lap Chill Mat in silver is the latest version of the original...
Logitech unveils new wireless trackball
Logitech (http://www.logitech.com) has unveiled the US$59.99 Wireless Trackball M570. Compatible with Mac OS X 10.5 and higher, its laser tracking sensor uses the ball, rather than a surface, to guide movement.
Logitech’s newest trackball also has a scroll wheel and back/forward buttons. Plus, it uses the tiny Logitech Unifying wireless receiver. It stays in your laptop, so there’s no need to unplug it when you move around, and the 2.4 GHz wireless means a connection from up to 30 feet away.
You can add a compatible keyboard, number pad or additional mouse to the same receiver so you don’t fill up all your USB ports. You can purportedly go for up to 18 months without replacing the included AA battery.
Sound ID announces three new Bluetooth headsets
Sound ID (http://www.soundid.com) has announced three additions to their 5 Series product line: the Sound ID 520 Bluetooth headset, the Sound ID 512 Bluetooth headset and the Sound ID 500 Bluetooth headset.
The Sound ID EarPrint app offers personalized audio performance for Phone, Media (A2DP) and Pass Thru modes. It offers EarPrint compatibility with the iPhone, select BlackBerry devices and Android 2.1/2.2 devices. The Sound ID EarPrint app is available for free from the Apple App Store on iPhone 4, iPhone 3GS, iPhone 3G and compatible with iPad in media (A2DP) mode with the 2X option.
The Sound ID 520, 512 and 500 will be available in the fourth quarter and range in price from US$79.99 to $129.99. All units come with a small Universal AC travel charger, USB charging cable, three sizes of RealComfort EarLoops and an Ear Hook for an alternative over-the-ear wearing option. The 520 and 512 also come with a clip holster carrying case.
Markzware updates PUB2ID for InDesign CS5
Markzware (http://www.markzware.com), a developer of data extraction and conversion software and inventor of preflighting, has released an upgrade (version 3.0) of its PUB2ID conversion tool for Mac OS X (10.5 and higher) and Windows platforms. The upgrade adds support for Adobe Creative Suite 3.
PUB2ID is a plug-in that enables users to convert native-application Microsoft Publisher files (MS Publisher versions 2002 through 2007) to Adobe InDesign while preserving the content, as well as the styles and formatting. The InDesign user simply clicks on File in the toolbar, then Open, and selects the Microsoft Publisher file for conversion. With version 2.10 grouped items in Publisher remain grouped in InDesign. Text wrap around an image works more consistently. Image scaling issues are resolved preserving the original scaling in InDesign. And Pantone names are preserved as are custom RGB and CMYK values and tint values
PUB2ID 3 has a manufacturer's suggested retail price is US$199. The...
Invoices 2.6.4 for Mac OS X is a maintenance release
Tension Software has updated Invoices (http://www.pomola.com/products_invoices/invoices.html), a native Cocoa application to create and manage invoices in Mac OS X, to version 2.6.4. It's a bug fix release.
Invoices (US$40) allows you to create a new invoices with all data without using the keyboard, only with the mouse and all from a single panel view. You can make two different type of invoices, Plain and Table, where description of sold goods and services can be managed in a different way.
Invoices automatically calculates totals and taxes, in accordance with the set-up the user specified using his own country's rules. Invoices requires Mac OS X 10.4. It's Universal Binary so runs natively on both PowerPC and Intel Macs.
Mailings for Mac OS X updated to version 1.9.82
Limit Point Software has released Mailings 1.9.82 (http://www.limit-point.com/Mailings/Mailings.html), an update of the application for batch emailing that delivers any web page or plain text document with attachments to multiple recipients for marketing, news announcements, product updates, etc. In the new version,
Mailings delivers web pages, plain or HTML text documents to multiple recipients for marketing, news announcements, product updates etc. It integrates with mail clients, most common browsers, Address Book and Entourage.
Mailings is Universal Binary so runs natively on both PowerPC and Intel Macs. It requires Mac OS X 10.4 or higher. It costs US$10; upgrades are always free. A demo is available for download.
IDC foresees robust update for 802.11n deployments
In the second quarter of 2010 (2Q10), the International Data Corp. (http://www.idc.com) found year-over-year revenue growth of 26.4%, and more modest 2.4% growth over a strong first quarter, for enterprise wireless local area networks (WLANs). The market enjoyed a strong performance across all regions and key product segments, especially for 802.11n technology.
"The continued strength in the WLAN market in the second quarter was very encouraging with all regions and both the enterprise and retail-class market segments making a contribution," says Rohit Mehra, director, Enterprise Communications Infrastructure at IDC. "Specifically, growth in 802.11n deployments continues to accelerate in 2010, with 65.9% of all access point revenue being "n" based, up from 56.1% in 1Q10, and up from 45.6% in 2Q09."
Ratification of the 802.11n standard in September last year continues to boost enterprise WLAN deployments, attracting new and existing customers who were hesitant earlier to move forward...
Avery (California) Middle School brings iPads into the classroom...
Ninety-seven 8th-grade students at Avery Middle School in California returned from summer break to the news that each of them would receive an iPad that interfaces with their entire school curriculum. Additionally two classroom sets were provided for 6th and 7th grades.
The iPad Program is the result of a collaborative effort under the leadership of AMS Principal Christine Linder, Vallecito Union School District (VUSD), Superintendent Dr. Rick Brewer, CBO Gretchen McReynolds and Director of Technology Michael Wells. In April the leadership team envisioned the concept of integrating cutting edge technology to enhance learning in the classroom. This vision became a reality after conducting a teacher pilot program over the summer, holding student and community meetings and receiving VUSD board support, says Brewer.
“After extensive evaluation of currently available technology, the iPad proved to be cost effective, and most applicable to meet the educational needs of our students,” he...
Apple looking for 'Liquidmetal' engineers
Apple is hiring a number of experts on amorphous metals, as the company looks to create hardware constructed from a newly licensed, super-durable custom metal alloy known as "Liquidmetal," reports "AppleInsider" (http://www.appleinsider.com).
The web site discovered a number of new job listings this week. Apple is looking for an amorphous metal development manager and two metal process development engineers to work at its Cupertino, California, corporate headquarters, says "AppleInsider."
Apple has struck a deal with Liquidmetal Technologies (http://www.liquidmetal.com/technology/default.asp), a California-based company that holds patents on new metal and alloy designs, for essentially access to all of its intellectual property. According to the LiqudMetal Tech web site, its alloys are a" revolutionary class of materials that redefines performance and cost paradigms."
The superior properties of Liquidmetal alloys are made possible by revolutionary scientific and technological...
ComScore: iOS, Android platforms surge in the past year
ComScore (http://www.comscore.com), a company that specializes in measuring the digital world, has released a study of smartphone use showing that the Symbian platform holds 54.4% of the Western European market.
ComScore lists Apple in second place, as of July, with 10% share of smartphone UK subscribers. Symbian is in first place with 68.8%. When it comes to the top mobile OEMs (original equipment manufacturers) Apple is also in second with 10.2% while Nokia has 65.5%.
However, despite Symbian’s continued growth in number of smartphone subscribers, its market share has fallen as growth in the Apple iOS and Android (Google) platforms has surged in the past year. Smartphone adoption in the EU5 (U.K., France, Germany, Spain, Italy) has grown 41% in the past year to 60.8 million subscribers. Currently, more than one out of every two smartphones is a Nokia manufactured device, although Nokia accounted for more than two out of every three smartphones a year ago.
"Nokia is still the clear...
Kingston Digital launches USB 3.0 flash drive
Kingston Digital (http://www.kingston.com) is shipping its first USB 3.0 Flash drive. The Kingston DataTraveler Ultimate 3.0 Flash drive takes advantage of the faster USB 3.0 specification that has up to 10 times the data transfer rates of the current USB 2.0 specification.
The DataTraveler Ultimate 3.0 has a read speed of 80MB/second and a write speed of 60MB/second. It's available in 16GB, 32GB and 64GB capacities.
To ensure backwards compatibility, Kingston is also including a Y cable as some USB 2.0 ports require it to initialize USB 3.0 drives. And you'll need it for Macs as they currently don't support USB 3.0.
MarsEdit for Mac OS X now 64-bit compatible
Red Sweater Software has updated MarsEdit (http://www.red-sweater.com/marsedit), weblog publishing software, to version 3.1. The upgrade is 64-bit compatible and adds a new per-blog setting to constrain image media to pre-set size.
There's also support for Lightroom 3 media libraries and a new "Paste HTML Source" command for e.g. embedding YouTube easily in rich mode. MarsEdit 3.1 offers enabled plug-ins for the rich editor so you can, for example, see embedded movies.
The "Send To Weblog" command now works when preview window is front-most. Finallyl, version 3.1 offers optional support for Google Data API 2.0 with Blogger
MarsEdit costs US$39.95; upgrades from previous versions are $9.95 (though version 3.1 is a free update for registered users of version 3.x). A 30-day demo copy is available from Red Sweater Software. MarsEdit 2 requires Mac OS X 10.6 or higher; it's Universal Binary so runs natively on both PowerPC and Intel Macs.
Best Buy expands iPad availability to all US stores Sept. 26
Best Buy (http://www.bestbuy.com), the nation’s largest consumer electronics retailer, today says it will expand availability of the Apple iPad with Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi +3G models to all 1,093 U.S. stores beginning Sept. 26. Best Buy is a preferred channel partner for the Apple iPad, now selling the popular device online (for in-store pick-up) and through Apple Shop locations within 673 Best Buy stores.
“Technology is becoming more and more personal, and our customers say they really value visiting a Best Buy store to touch and try the iPad for themselves,” says Wendy Fritz, senior vice president of computing at Best Buy. “We’re delighted that we’ll soon make that opportunity available to everyone who’d like to come see us, and experience this device in any Best Buy store nationwide.”
Speck Fitted cases come to the MacBook Pro
Speck (http://www.speckproducts.com) says their Fitted case line is expanding and bringing its brand of tailored hard shell protection and styling for the first time to the 13-inch and 15-inch MacBook Pros (the latest unibody models).
While crafting Fitted for the MacBook Pro, Speck's designers referenced the mastery they accomplished in the sleek SeeThru and SeeThru Satin hard shell cases for MacBook, says Speck CEO Irene Baran. The new Fitted cases feature authentic original fabrics over a protective hard shell top cover with comfortable soft-touch finished bottom shell cover, she adds.
The new cases also feature complete access to all ports and battery check button, are fully vented for optimum heat disbursement, and allow the screen to open all the way. They're available in patterns including: Brown Cookie Camo, geometry-inspired but presentable Purple SpexyHexy, pleasingly professional Darkest Tartan Plaid and the Black and White Tartan Plaid.
The new Fitted cases for 13-inch...
Vectorworks 2011 product line released
Nemetschek Vectorworks has released 2011 versions of its Vectorworks line (http://www.vectorworks.net/2011) of design software, including Vectorworks Designer, Architect, Landmark, Spotlight, Fundamentals and Renderworks.
According to says Dr. Biplab Sarkar, chief technology officer of Nemetschek Vectorworks, the 2011 version of Vectorworks software delivers several major improvements, including:
° 2D/3D integration. Vectorworks software has now, more than ever, a true 3D modeling environment. 2D planar objects can be created and edited within a planar context, where they display with all their attributes. Users can work in Top/Plan view as usual, or switch to a 3D view and continue working in the same way, with the same tools and operations.
° Improved Building Information Modeling (BIM) capabilities. The Vectorworks Architect program is even easier to use, and its new tools and features help get the job done faster and better, while communicating and exchanging files with...
Raidon launches 8-bay SAS 6G RAID storage solution
Raidon (http://www.raidon.com.tw/) is releasing its new generation of SAS 6G storage solutions: the 2880 Series, which supports eight to 15mm height 2.5-inch HDD’s and is embedded with a dual SAS 6G host interface, delivering transfer rates of over 700MB/second.
The 2880 Series provides multiple RAID levels up to RAID 6 and RAID 60 and also offers a snapshot function for system configuration backup. If a failure occurs the system can be recovered providing additional data security.
The 2880 Series comes in two models:, the iR2880 for internal and the GR2880 for external use, both models are equipped with the Raidon SAS 6G module from Intel 80341 CPU and 1GB of DDR2 RAM with LCD system status display. Both products also provide a web GUI (graphical user interface) for system configuration and monitoring via LAN or RS232.
The GR2880 has a backplane design that allows the unit to be very compact, the smallest in fact on the market. The 2880 Series will be available in the fourth...
Free iValentina for remote database management announced
Paradigma Software has announced iValentina (http://www.valentina-db.com/), a free, mobile database management tool for working with the columnar database system, Valentina, for Mac OS X, Windows and Linux. It will arrive next month.
With it, users of iValentina are able to do many of same functions accessible to users of Valentina Studio, the desktop application for creating and managing Valentina databases. iValentina runs on the iPhone iOS and was built using xCode, Valentina for Cocoa and the free Valentina for iPhone Client library.
With iValentina features ; you can: log in remotely to any Valentina Database Server; ceate new and modify existing databases, database schema, tables and more; run complex queries on Valentina Server and see the results, including picture preview; monitor an unlimited number of Valentina Server installations; and store and save complex queries as favorites that can be run again at any time.
NewerTech announces 'quad interface' portable RAID...
Newer Technology (http://www.newertech.com) has expanded its storage solution line with the new Guardian MAXimus mini bus powered portable hardware RAID storage solution for “live activity” backup/data redundancy of critical data.
Featuring hardware RAID-1 redundancy for a MAXProtect “mirrored” copy of data or RAID-0 for MAXPerform speed and a “quad interface” of FireWire 800/400, USB 2.0 and eSATA connections, the Guardian MAXimus mini offers Mac and PC users Plug and Play storage capacity up to 1.5TB and data transfer speeds up to 300MB/second.
The Guardian MAXimus mini comes factory set as a RAID-1 Plug And Play “live activity” data redundant/backup solution for financial records, medical files, business projects. Its MAXProtect mode writes the same information in real-time to two separate 2.5" SATA drives, each offering up to 750GB of storage capacity, for a “mirrored” copy.
LaCie introduces USB 3.0 RAID storage
LaCie (http://www.lacie.com) has released what it says is the first RAID storage solution to incorporate the new USB 3.0 technology: the LaCie 2big USB 3.0. In addition to the 2big USB 3.0, LaCie also announces the availability of its single-disk professional solution with a USB 3.0 port -- the LaCie d2 USB 3.0. Unfortunately, it will only run at USB 2.0 speeds on the Mac since there are no Macs with USB 3.0 support yet.
The LaCie 2big USB 3.0 is available in up to a 4TB capacity; pricing starts at US$349.99. According to Clement Barberis, product manager for LaCie’s Professional Desktop Solutions department. you can transfer a 50GB Blu-ray disk in less than five minutes, which is six times faster than USB 2.0. The 2big USB 3.0 is backward compatible with USB 2.0.
The 2big USB 3.0 includes two 7200 rpm hot-swappable hard disks and features three RAID modes. You can choose the “Fast” mode (RAID 0) to enjoy the full speed and capacity of the 2big USB 3.0, or choose the “Safe” mode (RAID...
SWF for Mac OS X update supports CS5, Flash 10
DcomSoft has released SWF Protector 3.0 (http://www.dcomsoft.com/), an update of their SWF file protection utility for Mac OS X 10.4 and higher. The upgrade supports CS5 and Flash 10, as well as offering other fixes and enhancements.
SWF Protector helps you protect your SWF files via various protection algorithms. Plus, you can customize your protection in different ways.
SWF Protector costs US$39.95 for a single user license. A business license for one user is $59.95, and a company license is $299.95.
CoreMelt releases Lock & Load Express for Final Cut Express
CoreMelt has announced Lock & Load Express (http://www.lockandloadx.com/lock-and-load-express.html), an addition to its line of video effects software tools. It harnesses much of the key functionality found in Lock & Load X, including rolling shutter reduction, but in a simplified version that caters primarily to videographers and prosumers using DSLR cameras and working on Apple's Final Cut Express editing suite. L
The gang at CoreMelt says that while Lock & Load X has gained considerable praise as a tool to improve video quality for users on higher end editing software applications, there are videographers utilizing DSLR and CMOS sensor based cameras running on Final Cut Express, which does not have a built-in image stabilizer (Lock & Load Express is currently the only stabilizer designed for Final Cut Express), who don't need access to every control in processing their footage, but need a reliable tool to stabilize footage featuring rolling shutter artifacts at a...
Microspot releases 25th Anniversary Edition of MacDraft 6
Microspot (http://www.microspot.com) has released the 25th anniversary editions of MacDraft Professional and MacDraft Personal Edition. These are major new versions of the program that was first sold in 1985 to compete with Apple's MacDraw. I
Version 6 offers a new drag and drop library palette/media browser that's the same as used in Microspot Interiors. It's designed to make access to multiple libraries easier and faster than before. It also works with iPhoto for image dropping and images can be dragged straight in from the desktop. The Layers Palette has also been redesigned to allow easier manipulation of multilayer documents because the palette stays in view it gives a continuous indication of what's showing in the document window. Merging of layers is now also undoable.
The handling of images in MacDraft 6 has been improved with the addition of an Image menu containing new controls for image manipulation, so images don't need to be pre-processed in other image editing...
NuKit for the Mac gets dictionary, more
Nulana LTD has released NuKit 1.1 (http://nulana.com/nukit), an update of the productivity and timesaving toolkit for Mac OS X 10.5 and 10.6. The upgrade includes a dictionary and abbreviation search in the Launcher, speed improvements, shortcuts to anything, and three new language versions.
NuKit combines different utilities such as a launcher, tweaker, shortcut editor, window mover and advanced calculator. It costs US$19.99, though version 1.1 is a free update for registered users.
Parallels Desktop 6 for Mac ships
Parallels (http://www.parallels.com) has released Parallels Desktop 6 for Mac, the latest version of the software for running Windows and Mac applications side-by-side on a Mac without rebooting. The new version has more than 80 new and enhanced features, says Serguei Beloussov, chairman and CEO of Parallels.
He says 3D graphics run nearly 40% better than before. Boot time for Windows is 41% faster than before, and Parallels Desktop 6 also boosts speed for working with files on USB drives, networks and in shared folders, says Beloussov.
Parallels also announced the availability of Parallels Desktop 6 Switch to Mac Edition, which includes Parallels Desktop 6 plus new features specifically designed to make the move from PC to Mac smart and simple. The Switch to Mac Edition provides a set of switching tools and includes a Parallels High-Speed USB data transfer cable. All of your programs, files, user settings and now even your browser favorites and bookmarks are automatically moved to...
'Consumer Reports' still doesn't recommend the...
"Consumer Reports" (http://www.consumerreports.org) says it still can't recommend the iPhone 4. The product testing company/mag says Apple still hasn't adequately addressed the issue of when your finger or hand touches a spot on the phone's lower left side if the phone is being used in an area with a weak signal.
Apple has discontinued its free-case program for the iPhone 4 effective Oct. 1, but says it will still provide a case to the "small percentage" of buyers who will need one due to the phone's "antenna attenuation issue." The company says "we now know" that the antenna issue is "even smaller than we originally thought."
That move is "less consumer-friendly in several respects," says "Consumer Reports." Here's the organization's take: "First, if you are 'experiencing antenna issues' with your iPhone 4, Apple says, you'll need to call the company to request a case. And where the current program allows owners a choice of seven cases, including some from third-party manufacturers...
Third Apple store in Italy will open Saturday
The third Apple store in Italy will open this Saturday at the Le Gru shopping mall in Torino, a city of 1 million in the north of the country adjacent to the Alps, reports "ifoAppleStore" (http://www.ifoapplestore.com/db/2010/09/13/grand-opening-in-n-italy-sche...).
The huge ground-floor store is located in the center of the mall next to the McDonald’s restaurant. The store opens at 10 a.m. You can see a diagram of the mall at "ifoAppleStore."
Apple launches Express Lane
Apple has launched a new online help system called Express Lane (https://expresslane.apple.com/GetproductgroupList.do;jsessionid=BKRfMQFfsNQLlJ9GDZy4nhQKmk7j9yV8BLSkMLSrXmppt2YdZHT5!1929009106) for diagnosing problems with Apple products. It's designed to streamline the customer service process and troubleshooting system.
It lists these categories: Mac & Software; iPod; iPhone; iPad; iTunes; More Products & Services. Once you begin using the service, it offers "My Products" and "Case Lookup" features.
Ultrasone releases PRO 2900 headphones
Ultrasone (http://www.Ultrason.com) is releasing both a standard, single cable version and a balanced, double cable version of its PRO 2900 headphones.
While standard, single cable headphones are commonplace in most pro audio and audiophile applications, a balanced headphone coupled with a balanced amplifier offers unique advantages over the former such as increased audio performance due to a doubling the slew rate and voltage swing power, while reducing distortion components and eliminating crosstalk, according to the folks at Ultrasone. The end result is decreased distortion and ultimately superior audio performance, they add.
To achieve this paragon of headphone fidelity, balanced headphones must be paired with a balanced amplifier (4-channel amp with 2 inverted positive channels) that instead of using a common ground, uses two wires per side to deliver positive and negative audio signals to each side of the headphone. Ultrasone’s PRO 2900s boast a black design, velvet covered...
Sorenson Squeeze 6.5 sports new video decoding capabilities
Sorenson Media (http://www.sorensonmedia.com) has released Sorenson Squeeze 6.5, which adds greater encoding, publishing, pre-processing and filtering functionality to theonline video encoding product. The Squeeze 6.5 update is free to current Sorenson Squeeze 6 users.
Among the new capabilities in Sorenson Squeeze 6.5, is the ability to decode the AVCHD (Advanced Video Coding High Definition) format. AVCHD records high-definition video to DVD, hard drives, or flash memory cards as .m2ts, .mts, or .m2t files and is the most common recording format for high definition video cameras at the prosumer and high-end consumer market.
Other benefits of Sorenson Squeeze 6.5 include three new filters: enhanced de-interlacing, image rotation and optimized color conversion. The new deinterlacing filter works automatically as a default setting to increase encoding quality and speed and is faster than any previous version of Sorenson Squeeze, says Randon Morford, director of product management for...
Canon releases PowerShot G12
Canon USA (http://www.usa.canon.com) has announced the addition of the PowerShot G12 and PowerShot SX30 IS to its digital camera line-up. They'll be available in early October and late September for US$499.99 and $429.99, respectively.
The PowerShot G12 will have High Definition (HD) video capture capabilities along with the HS (High Sensitivity) System. It has a 2.8-inch vari-angle LCD with 461,000 dots of resolution. A new control dial has been added to the front of the camera as well for easy adjusting of camera settings similar to how users operate a Canon Digital SLR camera.
The PowerShot G12 sports a 5X-Optical Zoom lens with Optical Image Stabilization and its wide-angle capabilities starting at 28mm. You can use the camera with compatible optional accessories such as Speedlite flashes, an underwater housing and a tele-converter lens.
According to Canon, the PowerShot SX30 IS Digital camera is the world’s first point-and-shoot model to feature a 35X-Wide Angle Optical Zoom...
Support Group announces hands-on FileMaker training
FileMaker consultant and authorized training provider, The Support Group, has announced a new addition to their FileMaker training classes: Scripting with FileMaker Pro.
This one-day class introduces scripting to those already familiar with FileMaker Pro who seek to develop more useful solutions, says Chad Novotny, principal and vice president, technology for The Support Group. Students will learn to employ scripts to automate common searches, edit data, generate reports, and send emails.
The class covers dialogs, logical branching, looping, script triggers, variables, and script parameters. Students will receive detailed handouts, participate in active discussions, and try out what they learn on the computer. Tuition for the new FileMaker training class, Scripting With FileMaker Pro is US$199. Details are at www.supportgroup.com/training/scripting-with-filemaker-pro/ .
Scripting With FileMaker Pro is offered monthly at The Support Group's training facilities in Boston, Los Angeles...
Monotype Imaging launches Fonts.com Web Fonts
Monotype Imaging Holdings, a global provider of text imaging solutions, today announced the general availability of Fonts.com Web Fonts, the company’s cloud-based solution that enables thousands of fonts to be used in web page design.
More than 7,500 fonts are available, including over 2,200 available in the free subscription tier. Premier typefaces used widely in branding and advertising include the Helvetica, Frutiger and Univers designs. More than 40 languages are supported.
Free and paid subscription levels feature no restrictions on the number of web sites or quantity of fonts that can be used per domain or subdomain. Fonts may be downloaded for desktop use by professional tier subscribers to aid workflow through the ability to create web page mockups. Subscription plans are now available at http://www.webfonts.fonts.com for anyone who creates for the web.
Graphic.ly brings Marvel Comics to downloadable desktop comic...
Graphic.ly (http://www.graphic.ly) will begin offering single issue sales of Marvel comic books on its desktop reader; Graphic.ly becomes the first desktop digital comic reader to be able to offer single issue sales of Marvel comic books to its desktop community, including members in the US, Canada, UK, Ireland, Australia and New Zealand, as well as include Marvel comics on select mobile platforms.
Prior to this, Marvel comics have been available on the Graphic.ly iPad application. Additionally, readers are able to purchase books on Graphic.ly and read them on any device.
Graphic.ly will be carrying many of the popular Marvel titles in its store, including Iron Man; Kick Ass; Amazing Spider Man; Captain America, and Astonishing X-Men, to name a few of the titles.
Primera announces on-demand color RFID label printer
Primera Technology (http://www.primeralabs.com) has announced its RX900 Color RFID Printer, which the company says is the world’s first and only full-color RFID “on demand” full-color RFID label printer.
Labels are printed, encoded, verified and dispensed one at a time. All popular linear and 2D bar code symbologies are purportedly supported. The built-in RFID reader/encoder module is supplied by Intermec, which specializes in RFID equipment and technology. It's compliant with EPC Global Gen 2 Class 1 and ISO 18000 –b and –c specifications for the widest range of deployments in real-world applications.
Print resolution is up to 4800 dpi. The RX900 has eparate cartridges for cyan, magenta, yellow and black ink make label production. It printes at up to full-color print speeds of 4.5-inches per second.
The RX900 Color RFID Printer will ship in November. It's priced at US$4,995 (MSRP). Pre-orders are now being accepted.
ESET Announces ESET Cybersecurity for Mac
ESET (http://www.eset.com) -- which specializes in proactive threat protection -- has announced ESET Cybersecurity for Mac, the company’s new security solution for Mac OS X.
Leveraging the company’s NOD32 ThreatSense engine, ESET Cybersecurity for Mac delivers d protection against internet security threats without impacting system performance, according to the folks at ESET. In addition, ESET Cybersecurity for Mac customers will have access to online training designed to help better arm them against cybercrime and malicious attacks.
In addition to announcing ESET Cybersecurity for Mac for consumers, ESET is releasing ESET NOD32 Antivirus Business Edition for Mac OS X. It offers up-to-date anti-malware protection for Macs as well as Windows and Linux platforms. ESET NOD32 Antivirus Business Edition for Mac provides IT administrators with the ability to monitor all network endpoints across a multitude of operating systems, all from a single management console.
ESET Cybersecurity for...
Tasty Planet game is Back for Seconds
Dingo Games (http://www.dingogames.com) has released Tasty Planet: Back for Seconds, an US$19.95 game for Mac OS X and Windows systems. In Back for Seconds players control a ball of goo with the ability to eat anything smaller than itself. The more it eats, the bigger it gets. By the end of the game, players are able to eat the entire world (and more).
Here's how the game is described: "Tasty Planet: Back for Seconds is the sequel to Dingo Games' well received original game, Tasty Planet. As with any sequel, Back for Seconds has quite a few improvements over the original. Levels can now span vastly different object sizes; players can grow from the size of an amoeba to the size a galaxy within a single level. The game also adds a two player cooperative campaign mode in which each player controls their own goo. This mode is local only, so you'll have to huddle around the keyboard to take advantage of it.
"The game's story begins with the goo eating a time machine, causing him to be sent...
LinkOptimizer update addresses PNG conversion issue
Zevrix Solutions (http://zevrix.com) has released LinkOptimizer 4.4.6, an update of its workflow automation solution for Adobe InDesign. The new version addresses an issue related to PNG conversion and is recommended to all LinkOptimizer users.
LinkOptimizer lets you reduce InDesign job size and speed up processing by eliminating excess image data and performing essential image adjustments.
LinkOptimizer Light 4.4.6 can be purchased from the Zevrix Solutions web site for US$259.95 , as well as from authorized resellers. LinkOptimizer works with Mac OS X 10.4.2-10.5 and InDesign CS-CS4.
Version 4.4.6 is free for LinkOptimizer 4.x users and a $98.98 to upgrade from previous versions. A demo is available for download. For new users the costs is $259.95.
Macworld Mobile coming to the Mobile World Congress
IDG World Expo is collaborating with the GSMA to bring Macworld Mobil™, a developer conference specifically for iOS developers, to the GSMA's Mobile Asia Congress 2010 and Mobile World Congress 2011 events. The company will add its Apple market expertise to the GSMA's events in the form of Macworld Mobile.\
The Macworld Mobile iOS Developer Conference will provide full-day, in-depth training on this critical platform, with technical sessions targeting tools and applications specifically designed for mobile application developers and engineers. Additionally, Macworld Mobile will provide developers with market development and networking opportunities, both within the iOS development community as well as the broader international mobile products and services marketplace.
Macworld Mobile will be held at Mobile Asia Congress, on November 17, 2010, in Hong Kong, as well as at the industry-leading Mobile World Congress, on February 17, 2011, in Barcelona, Spain. For more info go to http://...
Apple manager agrees not to give up trade secrets
Paul Devine, the Apple manager accused of taking kickbacks in exchange for company information, agreed to a court order protecting Apple’s trade secrets in any document exchange during pretrial negotiations, reports "Bloomberg" (http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2010-09-13/martha-stewart-ibm-apple-d-maga...).
The U.S. Attorney’s Office in San Francisco filed the protective order Sept. 9, saying discovery in the criminal case may produce documents, tapes, diskettes, hard drives or other media containing material “that is intended to be kept secret and is trade secret information belonging to Apple.”
Devine agreed to procedures about how the data will be handled during pretrial bargaining, without giving up his right to challenge how such information may be used at trial, "Bloomberg" says, noting court documents. He has been accused of trading confidential Apple information in return for more than $1 million in payments, bribes and kickbacks.
1Password for Mac OS X adds Dropbox, Firefox 4 support
Agile Web Solutions has updated 1Password (http://1password.com), a password manager for Mac OS X, to version 3.4. The upgrade adds new tools for detecting and resolving conflicts for all Sync modes, including Dropbox Sync. It also brings partial support for the Firefox 4 betas and more.
1Password 3.4 is compatible with Mac OS X 10.5 and 10.6. It's a free upgrade for users of version 3.x. For new users the cost is US$39.95 for a single-user license and $69.95 for a family license (five users).
IntelliScanner Corp. releases Mini 250e for classrooms
IntelliScanner Corp. (http://www.intelliscanner.com) has introduced the USS$159 IntelliScanner mini 250e media organization scanner, designed specially for teachers and educators. It organizes books and media in the classroom automatically with barcode technology.
IntelliScanner mini 250e allows educators to build a classroom database of books, movies, and other media items in a simple, easy-to-use interface, according to Paul Scandariato, vice
president of marketing at IntelliScanner Corp. The portable scanner scans the retail barcodes already on the items. Teachers simply plug the scanner in to sync -- just like a digital camera -- and the software will download details like the book title, cover artwork, author, page count, and more.
The new IntelliScanner offers automatic identification of books via Internet enabled databases, including the Library of Congress. There's a "Friends" lending tool for tracking books that students are reading or have taken home. You can create and...
iPads to be sold at Target stores?
There's a rumor going around that iPads will soon be on sale at Target outlets. "Device Magazine" (http://www.devicemag.com/2010/09/13/apple-ipad-rumored-to-start-selling-...) reports that the retail chain is said to be gearing up to put on its sales racks a new product and the prices being elaborated make it look like the unnamed product that the retailer is talking about is the iPad.
Six price points have been revealed, and they are the same as what the iPad has been selling at. The prices band for the iPad ranges from $499 for the 16GB Wi-Fi-only model, to $829 for the 64GB model with 3G.
Analyst: Apple faces uphill battle with its Volume Purchase...
Apple faces an uphill task convincing schools to adopt its Volume Purchase Program (http://www.apple.com/itunes/education/) because its closed, rigid app store environment make access and digital rights management a pain for schools' IT administrators, industry watchers told "ZDNet" (http://www.zdnet.com/blog/apple/apple-introduces-volume-app-buying-progr...).
According to Apple, the Volume Purchase Program makes it easy for educational institutions to purchase iOS apps in volume and distribute those apps to users. The Volume Purchase Program also allows app developers to offer special pricing for purchases of 20 apps or more.
Volume Vouchers can be purchased at the Apple Store for Education in denominations of US$100, $500, $1000, $5000, $10,000. These vouchers can be bought on behalf of the educational institution by an Authorized Purchaser, and they may use purchase orders. The Authorized Purchaser is often a purchasing agent at the institution. Apple says you should receive your...
Adobe delivers HTML5 pack for Illustrator CS5
Adobe has released the Adobe HTML5 Pack for Adobe Illustrator CS5, its vector graphics software used extensively by designers of mobile device and web content. This pack provides initial support for HTML5 and CSS3 and extends the scalable vector graphics (SVG) capability in Illustrator on both Mac OS X and Windows.
The HTML5 Pack lets web designers and developers take advantage of the latest advancements in HTML5 through enhanced integration between Illustrator CS5 and Adobe Dreamweaver CS5 software, according to Lea Hickman, senior director, Creative and Interactive Solutions at Adobe. SVG generated by Illustrator can be displayed directly in compatible browsers and Illustrator can be used to generate CSS code for styling of HTML content.
The HTML5 Pack for Illustrator CS5 is immediately available on Adobe Labs as a free download, at http://labs.adobe.com/downloads/illustrator_html5.html .
The HTML5 Pack for Illustrator provides features that enable users to take advantage of the...
GSLO: massive iPod touch sales figures prompted Apple Peel deal
GoSolarUSA (http://www.GoSolarUSA.com) President Tyson Rohde said today that "staggering" sales figures for Apple’s iPod touch prompted the company’s option agreement with Chinese firm Yosion for the Apple Peel 520.
Yosion is the developer of the Apple Peel 520, a wireless device that when used with the iPod Touch functions as a protective skin that adds mobile voice and text messaging capabilities to the touch-screen media player. The new technology represents a more affordable alternative to purchasing Apple’s costlier iPhone, Rohde says.
During an online presentation earlier this month, Apple CEO Steve Jobs said that the company has sold 275 million iPods since the device’s release. He unveiled a new, slimmer version of the touch featuring the same 24-bit Retina display as the company’s iPhone 4 and proclaimed it to be the “number one portable game player in the world.”
Air Mouse Elite with MotionTools now available for the Mac
Movea says its US$79.99 Gyration Air Mouse Elite with MotionTools (http://www.gyration.com) is now available for Macs using Mac OS X 10.5 and 10.6. Mac users can now benefit from the ergonomic Air Mouse Elite with SmartMotion technology, "bringing the intuitive simplicity of motion to their lives: from the living room, to the boardroom, to the classroom," according to Bryan Hoadley, EVP of worldwide sales and General Manager of Movea.
With the Air Mouse Elite, natural hand movements drive more powerful presentation delivery, more interactive classroom lectures, more immersive game play, and more convenient access to online and home media center digital entertainment, he adds. The device has a 100-foot rangeand no line-of-sight requirements gives presenters the freedom to move around the room to captivate and engage audiences.
The Air Mouse Elite is also equipped with Movea’s MotionTools software -- a suite of effects and tools that allow users to customize, activate and control with...
Jedit X text editor for Mac OS X gets maintenance update
Artman21 (http://www.artman21.com/en/jedit_x/) has updated Jedit X, the Cocoa-based text editor for Mac OS X, to version 2.2.6 It's a maintenance update with five improvements and one bug fix.
Jedit X is an Universal Binary app so runs natively on both PowerPC and Intel Macs. It requires Mac OS X 10.4 or higher. The cost is US$28 for a single-user license, though version 2.2.6 is a free update for registered users.
Maintain releases Cocktail 4.7.7 (Snow Leopard Edition)
Maintain has released Cocktail 4.7.7 (Snow Leopard Edition), the latest maintenance update of Cocktail (http://www.maintain.se/c) for users running Mac OS X 10.6 ("Snow Leopard"). It adds Mac OS X 10.6.5 compatibility, adds ability to restore horizontal window controls in iTunes 10, adds Dock menu and contains other minor user interface improvements. This version also fixes compatibility issues with iTunes 10 and Safari 5 extensions.
It also adds the ability to disable the “This file has been downloaded from the internet.” Finder warning and ability to view .asl and .crash logs. This version also fixes minor Mac OS X 10.6.4 compatibility issues and contains updated Automator actions.
Cocktail 4.7.7 (Snow Leopard Edition) requires Mac OS X/Mac OS X Server 10.6 or later and is tested for compatibility with Mac OS X/Mac OS X Server 10.6.3. Cocktail (Leopard Edition) for Mac OS X 10.5 and Cocktail (Tiger Edition) for Mac OS X 10.4 are available for download from the Maintain web site....
