CS Odessa ships ConceptDraw MindWave
CS Odessa has released MindWave (http://www.conceptdraw.com/en/mindwave), its mind mapping tool for Google Wave. This is a no-charge add-in to Google Wave that can be used as part of Google Wave to map out a strategy or brainstorm on a critical topic.
The ConceptDraw MindWave for Google Wave tool allows teams to collaborate on a mind map in an interactive flowing manner building a map structure that represents the planned work. The map add-in supports Google Wave playback that allows one to step back through a map.
Once a mind map is has the contents from the interactive session the mind map file can then be downloaded to one’s desktop to be further developed using ConceptDraw MindMap for Ma OS X or Windows.
HDRtist 1.2 for Mac OS X gets interface tweaks, more
Ohanaware has updated HDRtist (http://www.ohanaware.com/hdrtist/), its free HDR photography software for Mac OS X, to version 1.2. It's purportedly the most stable version of the app to date.
The large image corruption issue has been resolved along with image removal issue. Aligning images now preserves color profiles (RGB variations only) and the meta data. Making it easier to organize and store the processed HDR images. HDRtist now supports a folder of images being dropped into the main window. Interface changes on the main window include, now showing each images name, a new "Get Info" option and a "Show in Finder" option. Underneath HDRtist features new ImageIO kit code, a new toolbar and improved error reporting (which'll pick up crash reports).
HDRtist creates HDR photos and tone maps them in a single step. You can choose from four different tone mapping techniques. Even if you're not into HDR photography, HDRtist is a great tool to have for dramatizing dull photos, livening...
TrendNet introduces new wireless N gigabit router
TrendNet (http://www.trendnet.com) has launched the US$159.99 450Mbps Wireless N Gigabit Router. Three external antennas broadcast on the 2.4GHz spectrum.
Three spatial streams per antenna produce a record 450Mbps theoretical wireless throughput. Multiple Input Multiple Output (MIMO) technology boosts wireless coverage, signal strength, and throughput speed. The router has one Gigabit Wide Area Network port and four Gigabit Local Area Network ports.
Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) integrates other WPS supported wireless adapters at the touch of a button. You press the WPS button on the TEW-691GR, and then press the WPS button on a compatible wireless adapter. Confirm you would like to connect and the devices automatically exchange information and connect. The router is compatible with IEEE 802.11n and backward compatible with IEEE 802.11g/b/a compliant device.
Verizon confirms 4G plans
The LTE trials being run by Verizon Wireless are going well, and the company says it is still on schedule to make LTE available to 100 million Americans by the end 2010, reports "ZDNet" (http://blogs.zdnet.com/BTL/?p=31508&tag=wrapper;col1).
The the real-world broadband speeds that engineers are seeing on the nascent 4G network are "way beyond what customers get on the current 3G networks (including Verizon’s)," the article adds.
“We are on track to deliver an outstanding wireless data experience to customers in 25 to 30 markets covering roughly 100 million people by year’s end," Verizon Wireless Chief Technical Officer Tony Melone says. "As device makers, manufacturers and others around the world begin to introduce newer and faster products to take advantage of these incredible new speeds, Verizon Wireless will be positioned to offer our customers new and exciting [services].”
Okay, now how about a "Verizon iPhone"?
Super Talent introduces encrypted USB 3.0 SuperCrypt drive
Super Talent Technology (http://www.supertalent.com), a manufacturer of Flash storage solutions and DRAM memory modules, has announced the new USB 3.0 SuperCrypt drive, which supports AES hardware encryption.
Available in 16GB, 32GB, 64GB, 128GB and 256GB capacities, this new drive supports USB 3.0 speeds of up to 240MB/second. Measuring 95 x 34 x 15.4 mm, the new SuperCrypt Drive requires no separate cable and is fully backward compatible with USB 2.0 ports, at USB 2.0 speeds. Super Talent offers two AES encryption options, both of which include the STT encryption utility for password control: the SuperCrypt drive features 128-bit ECB encryption, while the SuperCrypt Pro features 256-bit XTS encryption for very robust security.
The USB 3.0 SuperCrypt drive will be available later this month. Pricing hasn't been announced.
Apple tries to lure music labels away from Amazon's Daily...
Apple is trying to lure music labels away from Amazon's Daily Deal, according to "Billboard" magazine (http://www.billboard.biz/bbbiz/content_display/magazine/upfront/e3i5207f...). With the Daily Deal, music labels offer Amazon new music a day before it’s sold elsewhere, and the music then gets promoted at the top of the Amazon music download page.
In exchange for a Daily Deal promotion on a new album, Amazon has been asking labels to provide it with a one-day exclusive before street date and such digital marketing support as a banner ad on an artist's MySpace page and messages on label and artist Web sites and social network feeds. And Apple doesn't like that.
"Billboard" quotes unnamed sources as saying that iTunes representatives have been urging labels to rethink their participation in the Amazon promotion and that they've backed up those warnings by withdrawing marketing support for certain releases featured as Daily Deals. In response, label executives at Capitol, Capitol...
Sonnet introduces Fusion D800P2 Eight-Drive RAID storage system
Sonnet Technologies (http://www.sonnettech.com) has introduced the latest addition to its Fusion line of RAID storage systems: the D800P2.
The D800P2 is a mid-level, software-configured RAID storage system containing eight hard drives, which can be formatted in RAID 0, RAID 1, and RAID 10 sets, or JBOD (individual drives) for individual projects or daily backups. The unit's dual port multipliers offer high-performance data transfers of up to 390 MB/second write, 475 MB/second read.
The D800P2 is designed for use with the Sonnet Tempo SATA E4P, Tempo SATA X4P, and Tempo SATA Pro ExpressCard/34 SATA controller cards for Mac and Windows PCs to support multiple streams of ProRes HD video. An economical solution, the D800P2 enables Sonnet's customers to choose a system preconfigured with RAID/Enterprise edition or select Sonnet-certified desktop hard drive modules in 4TB to 16TB capacities, or without drives. Simple to deploy, the D800P2 includes two 2-meter locking eSATA data cables to...
Apple releases ProKit 5.1
Apple has released ProKit 5.1 for Mac OS X 10.5 and 10.6. The upgrade (http://support.apple.com/kb/DL1008) fixes issues with user interface software resources that are shared by Apple's pro apps.
The issues addressed include: corrected an issue with improper scrolling behavior; resolved memory leaks for improved performance; and addressed layout of interface elements in certain application alert windows. The update is recommended for all users of Final Cut Studio, Final Cut Pro, Motion, Soundtrack Pro, DVD Studio Pro, Aperture, Final Cut Express, Soundtrack, Logic Pro and Logic Express.
The update is 32.39MB. ProKit 5.1 requires Mac OS X 10.5.8 or higher.
SDI: nearly a third of physicians use devices like the iPhone to...
According to the "Mobile & Social Media Study: Physicians’ Views of Emerging Technology" report from SDI (http://www.sdihealth.com) -- a healthcare analytics organization -- approximately 30% of physicians access medical information using a handheld device or smartphone. The most popular handheld device or smartphone is the iPhone, with 31% of respondents owning one.
Not surprisingly, 95% of physicians who use handheld devices/smartphones download applications to access medical information. The most popular application reported is Epocrates, followed by Medscape and Skyscape. The majority of handheld device/smartphone users also access medical information utilizing desktop and laptop computers.
However, the type of medical information physicians seek differs greatly by device. When using a handheld device or smartphone, physicians are most likely to access information about drugs, drug interactions, and prescribing. When using a computer, physicians are more likely to seek...
SuperSync update for Mac OS X adds iPhone/iPod access
SuperSync (http://www.supersync.com/) -- Mac OS X compatible software that acts as a music collection’s central hub, retrieving, organizing, and syncing all music and movie files across machines and disk drives in order to create one consistent, complete music library -- has been updated to version 3.5. The upgrade adds instant access to all of Apple's iPhone and iPod products.
Now users can retrieve, backup and merge their iPod/iPhone music/video collection and playlists to any computer running SuperSync. With SuperSync, users can retrieve a song from a laptop, play or download a song from a home computer while at the office, upload a new album from the road, or back-up an entire music library on a new computer or network drive. It allows visual comparison of two music libraries locally or over the net. With this feature, users can see what music is located in each library. They can select the tracks they want copied from one library to the other, and click Syncrhonize to begin one...
SkypeCap for Mac OS X updated to version 3.7
SkypeCap has updated SkypeCap for Mac (http://www.skypecap.com/SkypeCap_for_Mac/), their Skype audio session recorder for Mac OS X , to version 3.7. It's a maintenance update that fixes some bugs.
SkypeCap for Mac allows you to record audio conversation from Skype to audio mp4 file. It fully integrates the process into the Mac experience by allowing human interaction during recording. You can save your Skype sessions so that you could hear them again later or share them with someone else.
You can use SkypeCap to record Skype Casts, teleconference calls, meetings, training sessions, announcements, interviews, group brainstorming sessions, telephone and cellular phone calls and more.
SkypeCap costs US$49.95 and requires Mac OS X 10.4 or higher. Version 3.7 is a free update for registered users of version 3.x.
Better Finder Rename update for Mac OS X updated to version 8.5....
publicspace.net (http://www.publicspace.net/) has released A Better Finder Rename 8.5.3, an update of the renaming solution for the Mac. The new release allows diacritical marks such as accents and umlauts to be removed from file names automatically.
A Better Finder Rename is Universal Binary so runs natively on both PowerPC and Intel Macs. It requires Mac OS X 10.5 or higher.
A Better Finder Rename costs US$19.95. Business, family and enterprise licensing is also available. Customers may chose to include a "forever upgrade" with their purchase.
ProTA stock market app for Mac OS X offers February 2010 options...
BeeSoft (http://www.beesoft.net) has updated ProTA and ProTA Gold, stock market charting and technical analysis software for Mac OS X, to version 3.2.3. The upgrade offers compatibility with the February 2010 changes to options symbology as set forth by the Options Clearing Corporation.
For new users ProTA 3.2.3 is US$129, and ProTA Gold 3.2 is $299. Discounts are currently available for registered owners of the previous, Classic versions. Both programs can be evaluated in a free, fully-functional trial mode, but the database is limited to the Dow 30 stocks plus Apple, Inc. and the S&P 500 Index.
ProTA software is compatible with Mac OS X 10.4 or higher. Version 3.2.3 is a free update for registered users.
Monkeybread Software releases version 10.1 of the MBS plug-in...
Monkeybread Software has released version 10.1 of the MBS plug-in for REALbasic. The MBS plug-in comprises a collection of several plug-in parts which extend the REALbasic development environment with 1,300 classes featuring over 28,000 documented functions.
In this release Monkeybread updated libraries to new versions: CURL 7.20.0, RegEx to 8.0.1, DynaPDF 2.5.0.504 and sqlapi 3.7.30. The DynaPDF 2.5 update offers improved font support.
The plug-in for Image Capture on Mac OS X has been rewritten; you can import pictures from a digital camera or a scanner using this plug-in. Also, the DNS Service plug-in part that offers Bonjour network discovery now purportedly works much better on Mac OS X and Windows. Finally, the AppleRemoteMBS class now handles the new aluminum remotes better.
The plug-ins require REALbasic 2006r4 or newer. Licenses are available for components or for the complete collection, with prices starting at US$29 for one component. The complete package costs $284.20...
Apple is number four on list of top UK online retailers
Apple ranks fourth on the list of the top UK ecommerce shops in terms of visits. Amazon UK tops the list, followed by Argos and Play.com, according to the latest research from IMRG and Hitwise.
Rounding out the top 10 are Amazon US, Tesco, Marks & Spencer, John Lewis, Next and easyjet. Nine of the November 2009 top 10 brands (including Apple) are still in the top 10. Six of the top 10 have physical stores, the same as last quarter.
"This new Hot Shops List (http://www.netimperative.com/news/2010/march/top-50-online-retailers-in-...) records retail traffic when online sales were growing at their lowest rate since records began, a decade ago," says IMRG CEO James Roper,. "The current recession began in December 2007 according the National Bureau of Economic Research (the official arbiter of recessions) so it is interesting to note how HSL rankings compare with the period prior to the economic collapse."
AT&T says the iPad will mostly use Wi-Fi
AT&T says the upcoming iPad will be mainly used by those surfing the web using Wi-Fi. The Apple device will be offered in just Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi/3G models.
"My expectation is that there's not going to be a lot of people out there looking for another subscription," AT&T CEO Randall Stephenson said during a webcast of an investor conference on Tuesday -- as reported by "Macworld UK" (http://www.macworld.co.uk/digitallifestyle/news/index.cfm?newsid=3214048).
Stephenson said the iPad will be a mainly Wi-Fi driven product. He thinks users will use it mostly around the home or taking advantage of free Wi-Fi spots offered by coffee shops, restaurants, etc.
Foxconn: iPads still on track for late March shipment
Canaccord Adams analyst Peter Misek told clients in a report on Monday that a manufacturing bottleneck could limit supplies or push the launch to April. However, Foxconn (Hon Hai Precision Industry) -- which makes iPhones and iPods for Apple -- says everything is still on track.
Foxconn's component suppliers tells DigiTimes (http://www.digitimes.com/news/a20100303PD227.html) that their supplies are on schedule and Foxconn should be able to ship 600,000-700,000 iPads in March and one million units in April. As for whether Apple will delay the launch of iPad, the sources believe plans are unlikely to change.
Virgin American airline dumps Flash
Start-up airline Virgin America has decided HTML is "good enough" for animating online content on its brand-new website, which went live Monday, dumping Flash, reports "The Register" (http://www.theregister.co.uk/2010/03/02/virgin_america_html_flash/).
Virgin picked HTML to give users of iPhones and other mobiles the option in the future of checking in through their phone. The battle between Adobe and Apple has seen Flash deliberately excluded from the Apple device. Chief information officer (CTO) Ravi Simhambhatla told The Register: "I don't want to cater to one hardware or one software platform one way to another, and Flash eliminates iPhone users. This year is going to be the year of the mobile [for Virgin]."
Apple CEO Steve Jobs is no fan of Flash. He reportedly tried to convince "The Wall Street Journal" to ditch Flash and move to the iPad. Jobs said that Flash is a CPU hog, a source of security holes and a dying technology.
WD introduces solid state drives for notebooks, desktops
Western Digital (http://www.wdc.com) is shipping its first consumer-oriented solid state drive (SSD) with the new WD SiliconEdge 2.5-inch SSD family. The company has also introduced WD SiliconDrive N1x 2.5-inch SSD family.
WD SiliconEdge Blue SSDs are available in capacities up to 256GB, feature a native SATA 3.0 gigabits per second (Gb/s) interface with read speeds up to 250MB per second (MB/second) and write transfer rates up to 170 MB/second. F
WD SiliconEdge Blue SSDs are available through select distributors and resellers. The manufacturers suggested retail price for WD SiliconEdge Blue SSD 64GB capacity is US$279, the 128GB capacity is $529, and the 256GB capacity is $999.
The WD SiliconDrive family is designed for embedded system OEM (original equipment manufacturer) applications and are single-level cell (SLC)-based systems. The products feature a native SATA 3.0 gigabits per second (Gb/second) interface with target read speeds up to 240MB per second (MB/s) and write transfer...
Apple plans to expand iBookstore to Asia Pacific, Canada
When Apple announced the iPad, it also announced the new iBooks app for iPad, which includes Apple’s new iBookstore, a way to browse, buy and read books on a mobile device. And Apple has plans for the iBookstore beyond the US.
A recent job posting (http://jobs.apple.com/index.ajs?BID=1&method=mExternal.showJob&RID=48775) shows that Apple is looking for a manger of iBooks in the Asia Pacific and Canada areas to be based in Toronto or Sydney. The manager will be responsible for launching and growing the iBook business in these areas "and building an extensive offering for customers."
Here's more from the job posting: "This will involve working with the iBooks and iTunes teams in Cupertino, Canada, Australia and other countries, and with content partners to secure content from U.S., international and local providers, and to market that content on the iBooks store and through other marketing programs.
"The role includes: working with management, regionally and in Cupertino to...
Apple looking for an iPhone Advertising SDK Manager
Apple has posted a job opening (http://jobs.apple.com/index.ajs?BID=1&method=mExternal.showJob&RID=48043f) for an iPhone Advertising SDK Manager. The company says "this will involve managing a talented team of developers working on the frameworks included in the iPhone SDK" (software developer kit).
"The ideal candidate will be responsible for the day to day management of the engineering, as well as related frameworks," according to the job posting. "He or she will spend much of their time interacting with the engineering team, program managers, other engineering teams, and executives. We need someone who is comfortable working in a fast paced environment with rapidly changing priorities."
Maintain releases Cocktail 4.7.1 (Snow Leopard Edition)
Maintain has released Cocktail 4.7.1 (Snow Leopard Edition), the latest maintenance update of Cocktail (http://cocktail.maintain.se) for users running Mac OS X 10.6 ("Snow Leopard").
This version adds compatibility with the upcoming Mac OS X 10.6.3 and ability to stop Cocktail from logging out, restarting or shutting down the computer at the end of a scheduled programme. The update also features improvements on the clear Adobe Flash Player caches and cookies procedure as well as overall performance improvements.
Cocktail 4.7.1 (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.
Cocktail is a general purpose utility for Mac OS X that offers a variety of practical features designed to simplify the use of advanced UNIX function. A single user license...
Mac utility SMART-ens up to version 2.2
Volitans Software has updated SMART Utility (http://www.volitans-software.com/SMART%20Utility.html), a hard drive status monitoring application that's compatible with Mac OS X 10.4.x, to version 2.2. The upgrade adds support for saving and opening drive reports in native format and support for printing SMART reports.
SMART (Self-Monitoring, Analysis, and Reporting Technology) is a system built into hard drives by their manufacturers to report on various measurements(called attributes) of a hard drive's operation. The attributes can be used to detect when a hard drive is having mechanical or electrical problems, and can indicate when the hard drive is failing.
The SMART Utility can read and display these attributes. This allows time to hopefully backup, and then replace the drive, according to the folks at Volitans Software.
SMART Utility costs US$25 a personal license and $40 for a family license. SMART Utility is Universal Binary so runs natively on both PowerPC and Intel Macs....
VPN Tracker for Mac OS X offers support for Cisco ASA 5500...
Equinux (http://www.equinux.com) has released VPN Tracker 6.2, the newest version of its IPSec-based VPN client for Mac OS X. The upgrade supports the Cisco ASA 5500 series and has improved compatibility with many other Cisco devices for quicker connectivity.
VPN Tracker 6.2 follows high demand for the integration of Macs in Cisco-based enterprise networks. And it contains pre-configured device profiles for the Cisco ASA 5500 series.
VPN Tracker simplifies the roll-out of VPN software through a licensing and deployment system, according to equinux CEO Till Schadde. The Mail based software distribution automatically creates a special disk images that includes the correct edition of VPN Tracker, a pre-configured Secure Desktop and VPN Connection as well as the software-license. The software distribution is based on a voucher-system that makes licensing VPN Tracker child's play.
VPN Tracker 6.x is available in three editions and runs on Mac OS X 10.4, 10.5 and 10.6. VPN Tracker Personal...
MEI releases InPorter 2.0 for K4 Publishing System
Managing Editor Inc. (MEI), an Adobe premier development partner and a provider of software solutions for the publishing industry, has released InPorter 2.0.
The latest version of MEI’s versatile add-on module for the vjoon K4 Publishing System includes support for reading XMP content embedded in files being “InPorted” into the workflow. InPorter is a server-side utility that streamlines and automates the process of moving content into K4, an editorial solution integrating Adobe InDesign and Adobe InCopy. InPorter handles any kind of object that can be managed in the K4 system, including InCopy articles, InDesign layouts, photos, ads, multimedia and more.
When content arrives in a watched folder, InPorter automatically checks it into the K4 database, applying the default metadata defined for that content type, or using custom metadata read from an XML-based job ticket or, with Version 2.0, from embedded XMP. The content is immediately ready to proceed through its normal K4 workflow....
Former Mozilla security chief joins Apple
Former Mozilla security chief Mwende Window Snyder has been hired by Apple. And, please, no comments about an Apple employee named Window.
Snyder started her new job Monday, where she's now working as a senior security product manager, according to "PCWorld" (http://www.pcworld.com/article/190524/exmozilla_security_chief_takes_job...).
At Mozilla, she was officially dubbed "Chief Something-or-Other." Snyder is also the co-author of "Threat Modeling," a standard manual on application security. Snyder was director of Security Architecture at @stake and was a senior security strategist at Microsoft in the Security Engineering and Communications organization. After leaving Microsoft in 2005, she worked as a principal, founder and CTO at Matasano Security before joining Mozilla in September 2006.
The photo is courtesy of "Live Journal" (http://community.livejournal.com/blackfolk/6270058.html)
-- Dennis Sellers
iPhone OS dominant for mobile ads in Australia, Singapore, Hong...
When it comes to mobile advertising, the iPhone OS was most dominant in Australia, Singapore and Hong Kong with 93%, 84% and 76%, respectively, of ad requests in December 2009, according to AdMob (http://metrics.admob.com).
These three countries are responsible for 69% of the region's total iPhone traffic. The Symbian OS lost 39%, 29% and 16% of ad requests in Australia, Singapore and Hong Kong, respectively.
AdMob stores and analyzes handset and operator data from every ad request in its network of more than 15,000 mobile web sites and applications to optimize ad serving. Each month, the AdMob Mobile Metrics Report aggregates this data to provide insights into major trends in the mobile ecosystem.
iPhone gross profit margin approaches 60%
Bernstein Research analyst Toni Sacconaghi says the iPhone's gross profit margins are approaching 60%. Assuming that the average selling prices of the Apple device remain constant, Sacconaghi estimates that the iPhone will boost Apple's overall gross margin 120 basis points in fiscal 2010 and "a stunning" 385 to 513 basis points in fiscal 2011.
As reported by "Fortune" (http://brainstormtech.blogs.fortune.cnn.com/2010/03/02/what-doth-it-prof...), Sacconaghi iPhone prices are going up, not down, from an average wholesale price of US$588 in the third fiscal quarter of 2009 to $638 in the first fiscal quarter of 2010. The analyst also says there are no signs of price resistance from either customers or carriers as cellular carriers are lining up to get the iPhone.
Also, Sacconaghi says, "e note, that Mac gross margins are an estimated 2000 [basis points] above competitors and that a substantial gap in profitability has existed for more than a decade, widening along the way. We would...
The browser Choice Screen rolls out to 200 million web users
Starting March 1, Microsoft began offering a browser ballot screen (http://www.browserchoice.eu/BrowserChoice/browserchoice_en.htm) to Windows users all over Europe. The ballot screen (also called the Choice Screen), which will be provided via a Windows Update, will contain the top 12 browsers including Safari, Opera, Firefox, Chrome, and Internet Explorer.
It will have users pick a browser that they would like to use on their computer. This initiative was mandated by an agreement Microsoft reached last year with antitrust regulators in the European Commission. This was after Opera made the initial complaint to the Commission in December 2007 stating that Microsoft was engaging in anti-competitive practices by bundling IE with Windows.
Active Storage debuts Mac compatible 32TBU storage solution
Active Storage (http://activestorage.com) has released the 32TB XRAID, a high-performance RAID storage solution for media production and Apple professionals. These RAID systems feature Active/Active RAID controllers with redundant power and cooling in 3U of rack space.
It utilizes enterprise class 2TB SATA II hard drives and support 4K, multi-stream 2K and HD workflows of all shapes and sizes.The 32TB XRAID offers RAID 6 on standard direct-attached servers, and "spectacular performance" in Xsan2 installations (where up to four streams of 8-bit 1080p uncompressed video are supported on one 16 drive system), according to Alex Grossman, CEO of Active Storage. The 32TB Active XRAID also features a Mac OS X native Storage Management Suite and iPhone monitoring App, plus out-of-the-box Xsan optimization.
Active Storage XRAID systems are sold through selected VARs (value added resellers) and resellers. The Media optimized 32TB enterprise-class hard drive and redundant controller model...
Seapine announces TestTrack 2010.1 for Mac OS X
Seapine Software (http://www.seapine.com), a provider of application lifecycle management (ALM) solutions, has released TestTrack 2010.1 The upgrade of the Mac OS X compatible software includes a number of new capabilities to support Agile development.
Key features enable development teams to better collaborate, improve productivity, shorten release cycles, and deliver higher-quality software product, according to the folks at Seapine. TestTrack 2010.1 offers a process-agnostic approach to development.
It also supports user acceptance testing and helps teams define doneness criteria for stories. TestTrack 2010 is available immediately for evaluation at Seapine Software’s web site. For more info on purchasing TestTrack Pro, TestTrack TCM, and TestTrack RM, contact Seapine Software sales.
Epson introduces Stylus Pro 7700, 9700 printers
Epson (http://www.epson.com) has introduced the Stylus Pro 7700 and Stylus Pro 9700 printers. They're specially engineered to exceed the expectations of CAD, GIS mapping, and corporate graphics professionals for applications such as architectural plans, engineering drawings, photographic GIS mapping, brilliant indoor signage, and more.
Epson America is also announcing it has joined forces with Ricoh Americas Corp. to sell these printers exclusively in North America. The Epson Stylus Pro 7700 (24-inch) and Epson Stylus Pro 9700 (44-inch) incorporate the company's latest achievements in high-performance ink jet printing such as MicroPiezo TFP print heads and UltraChrome Vivid Magneta inks, according to Reed Hecht, product manager, Epson America.
The Epson Stylus Pro 7700 and 9700 are currently available at a suggested retail price of US2,995 and $4,995, respectively.
Apple sues HTC for patent infringement
Another day, another lawsuit. Apple has filed a lawsuit against HTC for infringing on 20 Apple patents related to the iPhone's user interface, underlying architecture and hardware. The lawsuit was filed concurrently with the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) and in U.S. District Court in Delaware.
"We can sit by and watch competitors steal our patented inventions, or we can do something about it," says Apple CEO Steve Jobs. "We've decided to do something about it. We think competition is healthy, but competitors should create their own original technology, not steal ours."
HTC (http://www.htc.com) was founded in 1997 by Cher Wang, chairwoman, HT Cho, director of the Board & Chairman of HTC Foundation, and Peter Chou, president and CEO. It makes such smartphones as the Android and Touch Pro2.
Logitech releases portable audio system, updates Harmony remote...
Logitech (http://www.logitech.com) has released the Laptop Z205 speaker for laptop and netbook computers. The company has also updated its line of Harmony remotes.
The Logitech Laptop Speaker Z205 (pictured) attaches to the top of most laptop screens.The speaker Z205 is small and portable -- approximately 1.35 inches thick and 2.5 inches tall. The included carrying case protects your speaker while inside your briefcase or backpack. The Logitech Laptop Speaker Z205 is expected to be available in the U.S. and Europe for a suggested retail price of US$39.99.
Logitech has added to its line of Harmony remotes by unveiling the Harmony 600 Remote and Harmony 650 Remote. With the Logitech Harmony 600 Remote, you’ll see the commands you need for the devices you’re using, such as power and volume, on the monochrome backlit screen. The smart display can even provide help if you need it; just select the Help button and answer the questions that follow.
If you prefer a more colorful display, the...
CalDigit unveils the HDPro2
CalDigit (http://www.caldigit.com) has unveiled the HDPro2, the next generation of the HDPro. The HDPro2 has all the features of the original HDPro, but with nearly double the speed, over 700MB/second sustained with RAID 5 protection.
The HDPro2 also adds support for 8 SATA-II 3Gbs or 10000~15000RPM SAS drive modules. It features a next generation Intel XScale processor to accelerate the RAID engine. The HDPro2 also has a new environmental monitor and control system that communicates with RAID Shield, CalDigit’s RAID management and monitoring software.
The HDPro2 provides hardware RAID 0, 1, 5, 6 and JBOD support. It features Active Sustained Transfer Technology (ASTT). Its modular design allows for eight hot swappable drive modules in various capacities. It features an optional hot swappable load bearing power supply, two hot swappable ambient temperature controlled, and low noise smart fans. Even the built-in controller is removable/upgradeable. The HDPro2 is made of lightweight...
Sorenson Media releases Sorenson 360 API
Sorenson Media (http://www.sorensonmedia.com) has announced the wide release of the Sorenson 360 API, an application programming interface (API) that enables developers and business clients to create scalable, custom video solutions with minimal coding, and to integrate video into their web sites using the Sorenson 360 Video Delivery Network.
Sorenson 360 is Sorenson Media’s re-imagined online video platform. According to Sorenson Chief Technical Officer Mike Flathers, the API interface provides users with access to the full range of Sorenson Media’s Total Video Solutions, such as: the ease and singular high quality of client-side, browser-based encoding; the ability to intuitively capture, upload and manage user-generated content on their site; and intuitive encoding solutions that slash development time and enable full video functionality on any web site, or web-accessible application within hours rather than days.
“At its core, the Sorenson 360 API is a set of RESTful interfaces...
Playback Media Server for Mac OS X beefs up Playstation, Xbox...
Yazsoft has introduced Playback Media Server 1.5 (http://www.yazsoft.com/products/playback/information/), an update of their zero configuration media server for Mac OS X 10.5 and higher. The update offers built-in HD MKV support for the Playstation 3 and Xbox.
Playback can share media stored in folders or even make entire disks available to a Playstation 3 or Xbox 360. No configuration is required. By default, it will share almost any content on the users system. And Playback automatically integrates with iTunes, iPhoto, and Aperture. Users can share all content from these applications transparently or choose specific playlists and albums.
Those who like to tinker will appreciate Playback's built-in Access Control List (ACL) and bandwidth throttling. The ACL allows users to control which devices have access to their media. Bandwidth throttling limits the transfer rate from the computer to their UPnP device. This allows others on the network to do other Internet related activities,...
iPhone/iPod/iPad apps for March 1
Here are the latest iPhone/iPod touch/iPod/iPad apps announced. You can find 'em at the Apple App Store (http://www.itunes.com/appstore/).
Spectrasonics is offering a free app, Omni Live, which turns an iPhone or iPod touch into a wireless remote control of the "Live Mode" of Spectrasonics' software synthesizer Omnisphere. Omni Live uses the Apple device's touch screen, allowing multi-touch, wireless remote sound selection of the Omnisphere plug-in on the user's computer.
Amy Miller has released Oy! 1.0, an US$0.99 iPhone/iPod touch app that provides recorded exclamations of dismay for any occasion. It also lets users listen to 20 witticisms for many of life's most common scenarios.
X Sigman Partners has announced TigerText for the iPhone and iPod touch. It allows users to send text messages that delete off of both the sender’s and receiver’s phone after a set period of time. Once a sender selects the text lifespan, expired text messages not only disappear from the phones, but aren'...
Ex-Apple exec to lead new cloud-based music service
Former Apple exec, Pablo Calamera, has been appointed to the newly-created role of chief technology officer for Thumbplay, a mobile entertainment company. At Apple he oversaw technology development for MobileMe.
As of March 8, Calamera will be based in New York, reporting to Evan Schwartz, Thumbplay CEO and co-founder. Calamera brings with him more than 25 years of experience in computer, mobile, set-top box and cloud-computing. This includes a total of 10 years at Apple, six years at Danger (acquired by Microsoft) and two with WebTV (also acquired by Microsoft).
Calamera will have oversight of all technology initiatives for the company, including its recently launched Thumbplay Music. Thumbplay Music is a cloud-based service that provides unlimited, on-demand access to millions of songs and is now offered in the U.S. in Private Beta by invitation-only (http://music.thumbplay.com).
Calamera most recently served as director of Apple's MobileMe, Apple's US$99-per-year, subscription...
New Pioneer receivers are Phone/iPod compatible
Pioneer Electronics (http://www.pioneerelectronics.com) has unveiled a new line of 5.1 channel A/V receivers that are iPhone and iPod compatible.
Also, the Pioneer VSX-520-K and VSX-820-K feature wireless Bluetooth transfer of audio content, allowing users to enjoy their music directly from their Bluetooth-enabled device to their home theater system and are 3D ready with the latest HDMI, version 1.4, providing more high definition connectivity options for the Blu-ray 3D specification. Th
The VSX-820-K also features “Works with iPhone” certification, an works with iPhones and iPods. Pre-orders of both models are currently available at Amazon.com.
The new models feature expanded iPhone functions including an iPhone Control Button and Bluetooth Audio Streaming for portable media devices. The VSX-820-K's iPhone Control button that transfers iPod navigation control and on-screen display from the A/V receiver’s remote control back to the connected Apple device so users can navigate...
CS Odessa announces ConceptDraw MindWave beta
CS Odessa has released a beta version of its mind mapping tool (http://www.conceptdraw.com/en/mindwave) for Google Wave. This is a no-charge add-in to Google Wave that can be used as part of Google Wave to map out a strategy or brainstorm on a critical topic.
The ConceptDraw MindWave for Google Wave tool allows teams to collaborate on a mind map in an interactive flowing manner building a map structure that represents the planned work. The map add-in supports Google Wave playback that allows one to step back through a map.
Once a mind map is has the contents from the interactive session the mind map file can then be downloaded to one’s desktop to be further developed using ConceptDraw MindMap for Ma OS X or Windows.
Just remember: beta software is unfinished software. So use with care.
Skooba releases Cabler Stable DLX, protective wraps
Skooba Design (http://www.skoobadesign.com) as added a new cable/accessory organizer, as well as a new collection of multi-use protective wraps, to its expanding line of tech-travel carrying cases and accessories.
The US$39.95 Cable Stable DLX (shown), which looks and opens like a book, features a grid of elastic hold-downs in different sizes and orientations. The elastic strips “float” freely under reinforced retention strips, so they can stretch and contract to accommodate a nearly limitless assortment of portable gadgets, cords, adapters, and other accessories, according to Skooba spokesperson Lorri Diggory,
With the storage grid, pockets on the opposite side, elastic loops for batteries, pens and thumb drives, and an exterior document/CD pocket, the Cable Stable DLX offers approximately 18 different storage spaces in a 12 ounce case the size of a traditional day planner. Also, the new
SkoobaWraps are “portable padding” that can be wrapped and self-secured around virtually any...
Divine Fiat releases the Complete Set for Keynote
Divine Fiat has released The Complete Set (http://www.divinefiat.com/index.php?id=2), their entire collection of themes for Apple's Keynote. Keynote is the presentation component of Apple's US$79 iWork Suite.
All 14 themes are now available for US$130 -- 60% off the individual theme set price. Every theme comes in both standard and widescreen formats. Each theme also includes extras such as fully customizable icon objects, custom texture and color palates and video tutorials.
The Complete Set requires Mac OS X 10.4 or later and Keynote 5.0 or higher.
Keynote Zone releases collection of Keynote themes
Keynote Zone (http://www.keynotezone.com) has announced KeynoteZone Collection 7 for Keynote, the presentation component of Apple's US$79 iWork suite.
Several Keynote Zone themes are now available for US$69. Keynote Zone Collection 7 includes seven HD version themes. Each theme comes in five sizes, and you get everything you need for standard resolution, classic format projection, HD Projection systems or HD screens. Each theme comes in 5 sizes (800x600, 1024x768, 1280x720, 1680x1050, 1920x1080).
Keynote Zone Collection 7 works with Mac OS X 10.4.10 or higher and iWork '08 or iWork '09.
Native Instruments announces Alicia's Keys
Native Instruments has announced Alicia's Keys (www.native-instruments.com/aliciaskeys.info), software that recreates Alicia Keys' personal grand piano. Developed in close collaboration with the Grammy-winning artist, the software is used as the primary instrument on her new album and on the current world tour.
Designed as a comprehensive digital recreation of Key's own custom Yamaha "C3 Neo" grand piano, and based on Native Instruments' Kontakt 4 sampler platform, Alicia's Keys provides a piano sound designed to accommodate R&B, soul and pop styles. The instrument was recorded in Alicia's personal studio by her engineer Ann Mincieli and sampling expert Thomas Scarbee over the course of two years.
Alicia's Keys utilizes 17GB of high-resolution samples with 12 discrete velocity layers per note, and emulation of crucial sonic aspects like key release, sustain pedal functionality and sympathetic resonance. The user interface of the software gives e control over the sound to further...
Wacom introduces new Cintiq 21UX interactive pen display
Wacom (http://www.wacom.com) has introduced the Cintiq 21UX, its interactive pen display delivering pen performance and ergonomics in a LCD display. It's designed for professional photographers, designers, artists and animators.
The Cintiq 21UX offers 2048 levels of pressure sensitivity. Other enhancements include rear-mounted Touch Strips placed for fingertip access while working. Each Touch Strip has an accompanying thumb-controlled Touch Strip Toggle button that controls up to four different user-assigned functions per application such as zoom, scroll, brush size adjustment and canvas rotation.
The Cintiq 21UX Grip Pen features Wacom’s new proprietary Tip Sensor technology, offering users near-zero (one gram) starting pressure for the most sensitive interactive pen display performance to date, according to Don Varga, senior product manager for Wacom Technology. The Grip Pen also features a pressure-sensitive eraser and two customizable side switches that can be customized for...
NetGear announces net networking, powerline and NAS products
NetGear (http://www.netgear.com) has announced two new networking accessories for home theaters, as well as new networking accessories and NAS products.
The High-Performance Wireless-N HD Home Theater Kit (pictured) is a carrier-grade solution for wirelessly playing multiple jitter-free 1080p HD video and audio streams to every room in the house. The Universal WiFi Internet Adapter for Home Theater Devices and Gaming Consoles delivers Wireless-N performance of up to 300 Mbps through the Ethernet port of consumer electronic (CE) devices such as Internet TVs, game consoles, Blu-ray players and more.
The Universal WiFi Internet Adapter for Home Theater Devices and Gaming Consoles (WNCE2001) will be available in May at a manufacturer's suggested retail price of US$79. The High-Performance Wireless-N HD Home Theater Kit will be available in third quarter of the year with pricing for the kit and for single adapters to be announced at the time of market availability.
NetGear has also...
Cram for Mac OS X gets new installer, minor bug fixes
SimpleLeap Software has released Cram 1.3.4 (http://www.simpleleap.com/cram/mac.htm), an update to their $29.99 flashcard and multiple-choice testing study app for Mac OS X. The upgrade sports a new installer and minor bug fixes.
Cram is designed for students, teachers, or anyone else looking to prepare for any subject matter on their Mac with flashcards and practice multiple-choice tests. Cram features multiple study modes, and the ability to share test material with friends.
Cram works with Mac OS X 10.5 and 10.6. It costs US$29.99. Version 1.3.4 is a free update for registered users.
Plextor releases line of solid state drives
Plextor (http://www.plextor.com), a developer and manufacturer of high-performance digital media equipment,has released its first line of solid-state drives (SSDs) – the PX-64M1S (64GB) and the PX-128M1S (128GB).
They use non-volatile NAND Flash memory as the storage medium. Utilizing Marvell controller chipsets, the new SSDs deliver faster speeds for system boot-up, application launch and file transfer, lower power consumption and longer battery life, among other benefits, according to Esteban Kim, director of New Business Development at PLDS.
Both the PX-64M1S and the PX-128M1S feature 2.5-inch small form factors and an integrated SATA II interface.The PX-64M1S delivers up to 110MB/second sequential read, 65MB/second in sequential write, and up to 4,200 random read IOPS and 1,200 random write IOPS.
The PX-128M1S delivers up to 130MB/second sequential read, 70MB/second sequential write, and up to 4,300 random read IOPS and 1,800 random write IOPS. Both drives offer low power...
Franklin 3D game engine for Mac OS X released
The Franklin Group (http://www.franklin3d.com), a division of Paradigma Software, has released Franklin 3D 1.0 for Runrev. It's a 3D game and simulation engine that integrates with Runrev 4, the cross platform software design system from Mirye Software and Runrev.
With Franklin 3D 1.0 for Runrev Pro, you can build cross-platform, hardware accelerated games for Mac OS X (with OpenGL) or Windows (with DirectX or OpenGL). Franklin 3D includes over 400 methods, including support for display control, model loading and callbacks. It includes the engine plus a collection of example projects.
RunRev is a cross-platform, visual development tool that creates applications that run on multiple operating systems and is based on Rev, the English-like programming language inspired by Apple HyperCard.
Franklin 3D for Mac OS X costs US$199.99. Non-commercial, academic versions are also available, starting at $99. The professional version allows for royalty free, unlimited deployment of games and 12...