appleJAC Users Group

President's Corner: Is Spring Here Yet?

 

I just returned from my “taste of Spring” in Arizona. This is an annual pilgrimage to visit my mother-in-law in Mesa, where we spend a week in warmer dryer weather, a few flea markets, a jaunt down to Mexico, and lots of good food. Unfortunately, it rained with cold temperatures for four of our seven days, and I was Mr. Fixit for much of the visit. It just goes to show you that some vacations are more fun than others (particularly since wi-fi and decent AT&T signals were all very weak from our temporary residence).

At our last meeting, Steve Archer did provided us a terrific slideshow of his camera and photo experiences (peppered with lots of humor). We launched our second round of favorite gadget (Alice Kopp) and iPhone app (Dan Walsh) presentations. Julie Smith answered many questions about camera selections and uses, and George Kopp demonstrated how to use iPhoto to improve our pictures. He also explained the introduction of the iPad. Alice, our new webmaster, also gave us review of what is on our website, and why we should go back and visit it (www.applejac.org) more often . . . there is a lot to benefit us there. George Kopp also announced that he would be teaching an iMovie class on April 8 and 15 (register early to reserve your spot). The evening’s door prize winners included:

Apple Cubeclip                            Colleen Collins
Apple Business Card Holder          Sue Snell    
Apple Retractable Lanyard           George Kopp    
Black Apple Bag                           Charlotte Hubbard    
Bento 2 by Filemaker                   Jenice Taggart    
Apple Ink Pen                              Neal Hubbard   
iPhone Fully Loaded (book)          Tom Vaughn    
iPhone 3G                           Ann Lane

The next meeting will focus on a broad range of terms and expressions we often talk about, but seldom explain: the Mac Dictionary of Terms. This will include social media like Twitter, Facebook, Blogging, YouTube, as well as ports of all types (USB, FireWire, Ethernet, video, more). Photo terms, firewalls, networks, wireless and more will also be described. There will be plenty of time for questions and answers.

Mark your calendar NOW for the next appleJAC Macintosh Users Group meeting on the first Tuesday, March 2, 2010, at 7:00 pm. Bring family, friends and new members back  to Lewis and Clark Middle School to get the most out of your Mac and Apple products.

March 2010 appleJac Agenda

 

Tune Belt Carriers: Portable Comfortable Security

a review by Tom Piper

I often write about protecting our precious assets, and I’m particularly concerned whenever walking, running or riding my Segway . . . my iPhone and iPods absolutely MUST be safe whenever I’m mobile. At this year’s Consumer Electronic Show in the iLounge, I found a company who specializes in such protection.

Tune Belt stressed that they are “the original and passionate creator of neoprene carriers for portable electronic devices . . . (they) don't just make holders, but also continually strive to provide innovative carrier solutions that offer unmatched comfort, convenience and protection.” Indeed, the Sensor Case for “Nike + iPod” unit (circled in red above left) and Sport Belt Open View Carrier Belt for iPod Video are examples of their excellent workmanship and thoughtful utility.

Many Tune Belt products are for the arm, but I found their waist unit very appropriate for my needs. This is a lightweight and comfortable carrier with a slim profile that fits all iPhones, iPod classic, and iPod touch (as well as most Blackberrys, Palm Pre and many other smartphones). It is packed with features that work well while I run, workout or listen on the go. It works fine for right- or left-handed users, has a great pocket in back for earphones or such, and can easily be washed. The clear protective window allows for easy viewing inside a well-cushioned pocket, with appropriate access points. All of this for only $22.95 (suggested retail).

The very small Sensor Case is specifically designed to hold the Nike + iPod Sport Kit Sensor attached to the laces of most running or hiking shoes. I found that it will also protect other small devices like a flash drive or small lights. Not bad for only $7.95 (suggested retail).

Tune Belt’s product line has also expanded to wide range of lightweight headphones and earbuds. You can learn more about their whole line at www.tunebelt.com, or by calling 800-860-1175. I believe these all represent a very good value.

HoverCam: Digital Age Multi-Scanner

Review by Tom Piper

I’ve had many scanners including hand-scanners (4” wide), flat-bed scanners, all-in-one printer scanners, photostrip/slide scanners, portable roller scanners and many others. At the Consumer Electronics Show I found a new concept in scanners at a reasonable price.

The HoverCam Document Camera is a unique design that scans, copies, archives, e-faxes and video captures using a single elevated camera with lighted assistance. It will digitize filing systems, manage bills and receipts digitally, replace outdated scanners, and help make presentations a memorable experience. The included HoverCam Flex software makes managing scanned files an easy task,  cloud computing a reality, and data storage immediately available.

Hovercam Flex is a Rich Internet Application (RIA), which is based on Adobe Air 2.0 technology, and available for free. It is a user-friendly, easy-to-use, cross platform, and powerful tool for all quick and simple scanning and digital filing needs. We can file documents digitally in Hovercam Flex Library, or move the documents in and out at anytime. iles and folders can be accessed directly in the file system, as they are listed just as regular directories. Hovercam Flex can stack images into binders to organize multiple page documents. The images can be re-arranged within the binder. From there, it is possible to drag images out to a folder, an external USB drive, or right into a document. You can even move other image files into HoverCam Flex and let it organize all of your files. And if that isn’t enough, it is easy to create a multiple-page PDF anytime, and subsequently email, print, preview, or upload to cloud servers.

Scanning an image is fast taking just a second to snap a picture. This allows me to focus on managing the files instead of waiting for the scanner (remember how long it takes traditional flatbed scanners to scan an image?). Document images which are snapped with a black background, can be automatically trimmed off the black edges. Images are often skewed because the document is normally placed on the black pad with some level of misalignment so the program can straighten these images automatically. Scanned document images can be auto-corrected to achieve the optimal brightness, contrast, and obtain a white background.


That’s not all . . . I’ve used the HoverCam for real-time visual presentations at our Mac user group meetings with video streaming to the digital projector. You can even zoom in and out  and shift the image up-down and left-right on the live video preview to get the best effects. It is a low-cost alternative to visual presenters which often cost thousands of dollars.

Hovercam Flex is also designed to work with today’s most popular clouding computing technologies. We can email one or multiple documents with a click of a button, or use the Hovercam e-Fax service to send and receive faxes digitally. They support uploading of images right into my DropBox directory for quick sharing with my associates and friends. Google OCR also provides an easy-to-use character recognition service provided free. Special button enable the upload of files either to Google Document OCR or Picasa Web Albums with a single click.

I have done a side-by-side comparison of the basic HoverCam X300 to the higher definition X500. Both have the same aluminum structure with satin finish which provides rigid construction and a modern look, with a built-in microphone, adjustable overhead lighting, and convenient USB2 powered. It doesn’t take much room with a 4" x 5" oval base and 21" height (it sits on a thin 16” x 17” smooth rubber mat that is used to hold and target the image to be scanned). The HoverCam uses the latest CMOS technology, with a large depth of field for documents and 3D objects which makes it great for real-time video projection, interactive teaching, distance education, and online video conferencing. This also has the potential to be a versatile and compact all-in-one office scanning solution and document camera for everyday scanning, copying, faxing, and emailing/sharing.

In using both units, I’ve made a number of interesting observations:

• The variety of software controls at the top, left side and bottom of the window (see screenshot using BT-1 Wireless Webcam) can be very confusing at first, but reveals a flexible set of tools (regardless of camera) to extensively adjust the object being viewed, as long as I understand that the some duplication that is also used for the captured image and library. Once an image has been captured, it can be managed many ways as shown in the new top set of buttons (see screenshot below).
• Unfortunately, some of the instructions and diagrams showed components that are no longer included (like the remote control and retractable stand) due to old packaging. The rubber mat was also hard to lay flat until it had been reverse-curled for a day. The instruction and adjustments could use a more comprehensive manual.
• Fortunately, it has a very sensitive camera, and a fully adjustable set of LED overhead lamps. With the adjustable contrast, brightness and saturation, you have a lot of visual control over the image. I really like the adjustable zoom from 20 to 200%, which helped to show my iPhone screen to full frame, as well as the ability to flip 90 degrees in either direction . . . this is important for educational sessions using a digital projector.
• The rubber mat should have a reversible mat (white on one side for light objects like cellphones, and black on the other side for reflected light objects). The resolution works well for general viewing and is equivalent to a fax for the 200 dpi, and equivalent to a high quality printer at 600 dpi. It has lots of options and folders for storing scans by subject into its Library.
• In comparing the X300 to the X500, the software and hardware all appear to be the same, but the camera resolution is the big difference. If using it for live presentations where flowing video of an object (like a mechanical movement), the the X300 would be a good choice. If using it for fine detail, or enlargements of objects (like my iPhone), then the X500 would be a great choice (even though any movement will seem jerky at about one frame per second).

All in all, the innovative HoverCam hardware is very useful, convenient and fast, whereas the HoverCam Flex software has tremendous potential that should improve with a few more maintenance upgrades to tweak the tools, and add a few features like adjustable video input (increase or decrease sensitivity to light) and LED lights that can be spread away from the camera lens (to reduce reflections).

HoverCam X300 . . .
2 megapixel, (1600 x 1200 resolution) 150 dpi scanning

HoverCam X500 . . .
5 megapixel (2544 x 1936 resolution), up to 600 dpi scanning

There is a CES 2010 Special price of $139.99 (MSRP $179.99) for the X300, and $199.99 (MSRP $279.99) for the X500 (North America ONLY). To learn much more about these progressive products, go to www.thehovercam.com. This is a concept that will carry you to the next level of scanning, and expand your presentation toolkit.

TopXNotes: Managing My Thoughts

review by Tom Piper

Capturing and recording my inspirations and observations has long been a struggle for me. Its more than sticky notes, to-do lists, post-its and scraps of paper, its a quest to keep organized and productive. Three years ago I found a great product to help with this, and its recently been upgraded to make it even better.

TopXNotes bills itself as the premier personal note organizer for the Mac . . . I met this product’s creator (James Lee) at the 2007 Macworld Expo, and first learned about this excellent tool. His passion for this product clearly shows in its performance:

• Responsive versatility: With over 100 templates and samples makes getting started with TopXNotes a breeze for organizing financial information, shopping lists, software serial numbers, and much more plus samples  such as student notes, top ten lists, and many others.
• Thought capturing: Create a new note by pressing Command-N, selecting "New Note" from the "Notes" menu, or by clicking the plus icon in the NoteOrganizer provides complete control over how your notes look, including modification of fonts, style, or color to make those notes stand out.
• Text transfers: Drag-and-drop text from just about anywhere into a new note, or  drag text to the desktop for a Rich Text Format (RTF) export, which can be read by most text editors and word processors such as TextEdit, Microsoft Word, or Pages (drag or copy a URL into TopXNotes and it will automatically turn it into a clickable link).
• Automatic storage: With a powerful auto-save feature, information is protected automatically on every page turn, or at specific time intervals, whatever you decide.

In addition to the very strong initial product, there have been many improvements to the package. The graphic below summarizes many of these.

The NoteOrganizer, Multiview and QuickNotes stand out as especially nice upgraded features, plus the ability to sync its notes to the iPod (not Touch). Try it out yourself with the free trial, the video guided tour, and the examples at www.tropic4.com. Then, if you like it, you can buy the serial number for the dowloaded version for $40 (CD-ROM for $45). You can also get Kitchen Timer (simple count up or down) for free, AND their iPhone/iPod  Touch version of TopXNotes is in beta testing.

If you are looking for a terrific tool to translate your dreams, inspirations, observations, considerations and proclamations into editable recorded treasures that can be shared with others and converted into actions, then TopXNotes should become a part of your everyday experience on the Mac. This is a gift to yourself that keeps on giving!

Mailplane: Optimizing Gmail

Many of us have Gmail accounts because they handle large attachments, keep a very long record of messages sent and received, and was acquired free. But, there are limitations that an innovative developer has overcome, and even enhanced Gmail’s abilities.

Mailplane will help Gmail users save time, personalize our messages, switch between accounts, get mail notifications, and so much more. Without even reading the directions, I was able to setup my Gmail accounts and use the program immediately (see screenshot).

From a good friend who starting using Mailplane just before me, Lorene Romero declared with a smile: “I have been eyeing this program for about 6 months waffling about if it was necessary or not. I now have 4 gmail accounts that I have to check on an hourly basis. I started using MailPlane and within an hour I was in love with it. Why had I waited? I LOVE it.” I have two Gmail accounts that I check every other hour, and am very pleased.

In the hurry-scurry of my life, I’m having a hard time creating a simple description of this product because it does so much, so nicely, so helpfully. My best advice is to visit http://mailplaneapp.com/ and learn yourself how useful it is to a Gmail user. This is a program that can really enhance the way that we send and receive emails.

You can download Mailplane for free (http://mailplaneapp.com/download/ for Snow Leopard, Leopard or Tiger in a dozen languages), and use it for 30 days before making a purchase decision. After downloading, its just a drag-and-drop to your Applications folder, with an easy-to-follow “How to get started” set of directions. Online screencasts will show Mailplane in action and help you learn quickly how to use it cool features. If you like it, you can purchase it for only $24.95 (for the next three months, you can take advantage of the special user group discount below).

------------------------------------

Mailplane: 25% Discount

Mailplane is the most productive way to use Gmail on your Mac:
  - Save time using photo drag-and-drop to send attachments
  - Personalize your messages with formatted signatures
  - Easily switch between different Gmail accounts
  - Never miss an important message with notifications
  - Link Gmail conversations with Mac documents

The regular price is $24.95 (USD); however, the exclusive Apple user group special price is $18.71 (USD). Download the 30-day free trial version to get started.

Special coded website link:
https://mailplaneapp.com/store

The worldwide offer is valid through May 31, 2010.

Kudos: Member Feedback

"I loved last night's meeting and agenda.  I like the way they have added

quick little presentations.  Steve Archer's programs was one of the best I

have ever listened to...anywhere!  Please have him again if the occasion

arrives."

Christy Trimble

A Dozen Mac Glossary of Terms Websites

Older glossary of terms (Apple terms):
http://support.apple.com/kb/TA21571?viewlocale=en_US

Dashboard widget (download):
http://download.cnet.com/Tech-Terms-Computer-Dictionary/3000-12565_4-10520073.html

Mac terms list (college entry level):
http://www.wellesley.edu/Computing/OSX5/Glossary/glossaryx5.html

Small Dog Support (hardware):
http://www.smalldog.com/glossary

Mac OS X Glossary (detailed):
http://developer.apple.com/mac/library/documentation/General/Conceptual/SLGlobalGlossary/Glossary/Glossary.html#//apple_ref/doc/uid/TP40008752-BK01_CH02-BK01_CH02_LK00001

Tech Terms Computer Dictionary (extensive):
http://www.techterms.com/technical.php

BrightHub Glossary of Mac Terms (letter-by-letter):
http://www.brighthub.com/computing/mac-platform/articles/15066.aspx

The Sharpened Glossary (at a glance):
http://www.sharpened.net/glossary/

Mac Terms Explained (comprehensive):
http://mac.elated.com/2009/07/01/mac-terms-explained-a-glossary-of-mac-terminology/

Godwin Computer Jargon (video explanations):
http://www.worthgodwin.com/dictionary-of-computer-terms-and-terminology/computer-dictionary-terminology-terms-and-jargon-explained.html

Tech-Along Technology Glossary (teacher’s aid):
http://4teachers.org/techalong/glossary/

Compare Mac to Windows Terms (buzzwords):
http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/comparing-common-windows-terms-with-mac-terms.html

Uniea Cases: a Cut Above

 a review by Tom Piper

We care for our electronic treasures in many different ways, with a variety of different cases, with a wide array of results. We are concerned about protection, style, security, design and versatility. After many years of experience with many devices and cases, I’ve seen a few companies emerge as leaders in this field.

Universal Electronic Accessories (Uniea) produces many fine products including cases for cellphones, iPods, laptops and a variety of gadgets. I’ve recently acquired a suede portable U-Pouch designed for the most recent iPhones, and am using it to snuggly shelter my iPod touch.

The U-Pouch is incredibly slim and low profile, in spite of its rich, suede construction. It has a tight fit and easy-in/easy-out functionality. This design makes it incredibly easy to access my treasure while keeping it snug inside the case while not in use. Not only that, the U-Pouch allows me to make quick, clean connections to my MacBook Pro and recharge while keeping the iPod touch in the case. 

This pouch is quite affordable at only $19.95, a good value for this stylish zebra-pattern case. Its strongly knitted constructions promises to be durable for a long time. This is very nice case that does just what is needed.

I also acquired a U-Sleaf Reversable Universal Sleeve case which will fit most netbooks or reading tablets . . . it should work perfect for my new iPad! Made of light-weight neoprene construction with a secure curved flap, it can be bright and cheerful on one side, or subtle and warm (inside out) to protect my new treasure. It, too, is only $19.95. It’s also great that you can get a Valentine’s Day Special that takes 40% off a second case after you have bought the first.

Its worth a trip to the Uniea website to see their fine line of cases (www.uniea.com and www.unieastore.com). Their continual quest for new and innovative products has produced the kind of quality to which I trust my precious treasures. You should consider doing the same.

 

January 2010 New Vendor Discount Offers

SmartMotion SwingChair: 20% Off

SmartMotion Technology produces one of the the best office chairs for computer users. The SwingChair is especially helpful to those who sit for long periods of time, providing continual support. Satisfaction is guaranteed with a 30-day money back guarantee.

The SwingChair is regularly priced $495 (US), but Apple User Group members can purchase one for $445 (US), with shipping and handling of $49 (US) free in the continental United States. If outside this area, SmartMotion will cover the first $49 (US) in shipping costs. Ask about discounts on accessories.

To order, ask questions or get a free DVD, call: 800-409-3350
Get more information: http://www.swingchair.com/        
Macworld Offer, $25 off above offer, call: 888-682-6151 . . . Good until Feb. 13, 2010!
This worldwide offer is valid through March 15, 2010.


Mailplane: 25% Discount

Mailplane is the most productive way to use Gmail on your Mac:
   • Save time using photo drag-and-drop to send attachments
   • Personalize your messages with formatted signatures
   • Easily switch between different Gmail accounts
   • Never miss an important message with notifications
   • Link Gmail conversations with Mac documents

The regular price is $24.95 (USD); however, the exclusive Apple user group special price is $18.71 (USD). Download the 30-day free trial version to get started.

Special coded website link:
https://mailplaneapp.com/store
The worldwide offer is valid through May 31, 2010.

New Mach 3 Composites Macbook Protection case: 33% Discount

Mach 3 Composites is introducing their new Carbon Fiber case for your MacBook. It features a new hard shell, light-weight, low profile, checkpoint friendly case. These cases are hand-made and designed to help protect your Apple laptop. All case exteriors have a high gloss finish with 100% carbon fiber, interiors are padded, and covered with a high-quality soft liner. They come in four sizes to best fit your needs.

Retail prices range from $151.99 to $199.99 (USD), depending on your laptop size, but Apple user group discounted prices range from $99.99 to $146.99 (USD) . . . shipping will begin in mid-February.

Give your MacBook piece of mind: www.mach3composites.com    
This worldwide offer is valid through May 30, 2010.


Pixelmator: Exclusive 20% Discount

Pixelmator is a beautifully designed, easy to use, image editor for OS Leopard + machines. Create, edit and enhance your images! Some features include:

   • Image processing by Core Image and Open GL
   • 20 tools to crop, slice, paint, retouch, measure and navigate
   • 15 color correction tools
   • 130 filters
   • 100 file formats
   • Layers-based image editing
   • Send To Mail and iPhoto
   • Web images easily
   • MANY Languages

With this exclusive 20% discount for Apple user group members, the usual SMRP of $59.00 (USD) drops to $47.20 (USD).

Enhane your pictures now: www.pixelmator.com        
This worldwide offer is valid through May 15, 2010.


RouteBuddy Software and Maps: 25% Discount

RouteBuddy for Mac OS X allows you to plan, manage and manipulate geodata (waypoints, routes and tracks) using RouteBuddy’s high-quality vector road maps, and seamless raster topographic maps for countries worldwide. RouteBuddy supports a wide range of GPS devices, allowing transfer of data and real-time tracking (depending on device capability). You can also display and add geodata to RouteBuddy’s topographic maps with RouteBuddy Atlas on the iPhone/iPod touch.

Apple user group members get 25% off the MSRP $99.50 (USD) of RouteBuddy for Mac OS X, and 25% off all RouteBuddy Map products which start at MSRP $5.99 (USD). RouteBuddy Atlas is free from the iTunes Store.

For more information and free demo: http://www.routebuddy.com         
This worldwide offer is valid through June 30, 2010.

End of March appleJAC Digest/Blog