appleJAC Users Group

President's Place: February 2014

by Tom Piper

This new year of 2014 is in full swing, complete with subzero temperatures (last week), and beautifully-balmy over 60° days (today). January has proven to be a roller coaster of weather that reminds us that winter is here to stay for awhile. It certainly stopped government, businesses, schools and our meeting early this month . . . so, we postponed it to February 4.

A few topics have been tweeked slightly (see agenda below), but you can expect an exciting and educational meeting with over 20 new and innovative Gadgets (hardware, software, apps and more). Also come prepared to tell us about your favorite technology-related gifts from Christmas. Bring friends and family to enjoy our gathering.

We also remind you to use the new strip at the bottom of the agenda to tell us what you would like to learn from our appleJAC MUG meetings. Its important to get your feedback if our meetings are to remain successful, knowledgeable and fun.

By the way, be sure to check out the new product reviews that I've recently completed. Just scroll down a little further, and there they are . . . 

LaCie Culbuto: Playfully Powerful USB Key

a review by Tom Piper

Portable storage is great to transfer data, and I’ve had progressively larger capacity flash drives (aka thumb drives, USB keys, jump drives, memory sticks, more). But size isn’t everything, appearance and personality improve on utility. In addition to my StarWars and micro flash drives, I’ve found another compelling device that continues to delight.

The LaCie Culbuto USB key, designed by Constance Guisset, brings magic, movement, and whimsy to my desktop and other functional workspaces. My inner child has been embraced with this device that is always up for playing around. With black and gold (Mizzou colors), weighing under a third of a pound and standing about 4” tall, this is a new and entertaining tool.

Whether dancing across my desktop or connected to a computer, the LaCie Culbuto earns its keep. When it’s taking a break from storing my files, the LaCie Culbuto is a graceful photo or card holder on my desk. I just remove the cap and plug it into my MacBook Pro to carry files or move them elsewhere.

Featuring USB 3.0, the LaCie Culbuto lets me transfer files up to four times faster than with USB 2.0. With 16GB of capacity (32GB also available), I can back up many important files or store hundreds of movies or thousands of songs. Easy setup, passworded access and automatic worry-free backup for Mac (and PC) computers ensures that my files remain completely protected. Its a little bulky to carry in the pocket, but fits easily into my computer or iPad bag.

The LaCie Cubuto USB key can be purchased for $49.99 (16GB) or $79.99 (32GB) from www.lacie.com/products. This is one of many fine products available from LaCie including many types of storage media, displays, USB keys, accessories and more. Its terrific to have tools that can be fun to use too.

Nuance Dragon Dictate 3: Expert Speech-to-Text Software

a review by Tom Piper

Typing is very “old school” in a world of Siri and voice recognition. Over three years ago I did a review of Dragon Dictate after Nuance acquired MacSpeech Scribe posted at applejac_macintosh_users. It was then, and continues now, the leader in voice transcription. Recently they released a major upgrade to make it even better.

Dragon Dictate for Mac 3 helps me accomplish more than I ever imagined possible by inputting text just by speaking (up to three times faster than typing), and interacting with my favorite Mac applications using only my voice. This power software provides amazing accuracy and requires just minutes of training to get started – it’s Simply Smarter Speech Recognition. Version 3 is even better with these excellent features:

• Improved Accuracy: Dragon Dictate for Mac 3 delivers a 15% improvement to out-of-the-box accuracy when compared to version 2.x. Its relies on the latest Dragon speech recognition engine (from Dragon NaturallySpeaking 12), and also samples higher quality audio in order to deliver unprecedented accuracy, so that what I say is what I get.
• Faster, More Advanced Correction: When it comes to making a correction, Dragon Dictate for Mac 3 makes it faster and easier than ever before. It includes a richer list of alternative word choices, so when I do make a correction, it’s more likely that the word or phrase I intended will be presented as an option.
• Control in More Applications with Express Editor: Dragon Dictate for Mac 3 gives me control in more applications, so that I can use my voice to get more done. After I finish dictating, I can transfer the text from the Express Editor to the desired application quickly and easily by voice.
• Transcription of Recorded Speech: It’s easy to transcribe my own recorded speech into text with Dragon Dictate for Mac 3. It supports .wav, .m4a, .m4v, .mp4, .aif, and .aiff audio file formats.
• Dragon Recorder: Since I don’t have a digital voice recorder available to me, I use the free Dragon Recorder app to record my thoughts using an iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch (4th gen). Then I can transcribe the recorded audio files when I get back to my Mac.
• Smart Format Rules: Dragon Dictate for Mac 3 reaches out to me to adapt upon detecting my format corrections (abbreviations, numbers, and more) so my dictated text looks the way I want it to every time.
• Enhanced Bluetooth Support: Dragon Dictate for Mac 3 adds support for wideband Bluetooth wireless headset microphones, and I can get up and running quickly. When it detects that the USB dongle of a certified microphone (like my Plantronics unit) is plugged into the Mac, Dragon Dictate offers “Enhanced Bluetooth” as an audio source type and does not require a script reading to get started.
• Interactive Tutorial: Displayed at the end of profile creation and available at any time from the Help menu, the Interactive Tutorial in Dragon Dictate for Mac 3 offers short progressive simulations to help me practice good dictation, correction and editing habits so that I can create text efficiently within just a few minutes. Even experienced Dragon Dictate users can benefit from the Interactive Tutorial.
• There is so much more that has been added like additional voice training stories, more commands from mission control and support for new applications like Notes and Reminders.

Installation requires at least an Intel-based Mac computer (2.2 Ghz Intel Core2 Duo processor or greater recommended), minimum free hard disk space of 4GB, at least 2GB of RAM recommended, a DVD-ROM drive for installation (also downloadable), a Nuance-approved noise-canceling headset microphone for Mac. It is supported by the operating systems of OS X Lion (10.7), OS X Mountain Lion (10.8), and OS X Mavericks (10.9), which is what I’m using. An Internet connection is required for automatic product activation (a quick and anonymous process).

I’ve used the latest version extensively in writing reports and transcribing notes. There is even a free app available which makes the iPhone a wireless microphone (it works very well). Although it extends initial setup time, it is well worth taking an extra 15 minutes to go through the voice training exercise which improves Dragon Dictate’s recognition and accuracy. To use it, I still have to start the program, mount my Bluetooth headset, and select my profile (takes about a minute), but then I’m ready to go.

This review was prepared with the handy assistance of this program. Since my input is often a rambling dialogue, I mingle keyboard editing to ensure accuracy, which works quite well (the speed and accuracy of Dragon Dictate is rather amazing). I have done side-by-side comparisons to the integrated speech recognition of Mac OS X 10.9 Mavericks (which is good), but does not measure up to the features and performance of Dragon Dictate.

The retail price is $199.99, but can be purchased for $134.99 direct from Nuance at www.nuance.com, or as little as $121.64  with free shipping from Amazon. Legal and medical specialty versions are also available from the same website. The Dragon Dictate app is  available for free at Apple’s App Store. Dragon Dictate is the best of its kind, and a product I continue to rely on for my most important work.

LandingZone DOCK: Desktop Mac in One Step

a review by Tom Piper

My laptop computer doesn’t travel very much anymore, but certainly gets a lot of use as a desktop companion. Unfortunately, I have far more connections than I have ports, and an upgrade was needed. I just found an robust and elegant solution.

The LandingZone DOCK is an adaptive and simple-to-use secure docking station for my 15” Macbook Pro with Retina display. I can now return from traveling with my computer and simply snap it into the LandingZone on my desk, thus enjoying the benefits of an executive desktop system. It makes my Macbook Pro retina much more functional with this powerful docking station.

With the DOCK, I have no need to plug in cables each time I connect since I just leave them plugged in. This quick loading DOCK provides me a powered 5-port USB hub plus a Gigabit Ethernet jack, an audio port, an HDMI port, and a Security Slot. This device works with the 15-inch MacBook Pro with Retina display models (Model A1398 released mid-2012 or Oct 2013) and offers the following features:

• Attractive, sleek, compact and lightweight
• Single step docking and undocking
• Brings Ethernet functionality to my MacBook without a Thunderbolt dongle
• Hook up speakers or headphones where I work
• Supports an HDMI monitor or any HDMI screen
• Use with Macbook Pro’s lid opened or closed
• Connects my hard drive, printer, iPad, scanner and bluetooth microphone
• Use in a variety of locations

Initial installation seemed tricky at first until I read the instructions more carefully to discover the well-placed alignment stops on the top-back of the DOCK, making insertion of the Thunderbolt, USB, HDMI and power connections on left and right sides a breeze. It elevates the rear of the MacBook Pro retina a little more than an inch, which provides gret air circulation underneath.

Its also nice to have the extra white power supply light on the right, and the extra jacks for all my accessories (very easy to reach on the back when I need to switch USB devices). When ready to travel again, removal of the device is only a lever swing away (with the power off, of course). The connection for a security cable is also nice if I am in a public location.

The price is $199, available at landingzone.net/products/dock. A different unit for the 13” MacBook Pro with Retina Display is expected to be a available soon. This is an indispensable accessory for any traveling MBPr that needs a quick-connect multi-function foundation at home.

OtterBox Defender: Build Your Own iPad/iPhone Case

a review by Tom Piper

iPhones and iPads are elegant, resourceful, and stylish, which is why they need protection. I have a variety of cases that provide varying levels of safety and security, but the OtterBox has long set the standard for utility and durability. I’ve recently acquired versions for my iDevices with excellent results.

Only on OtterBox.com can I build my own Defender Series case for either my iPhone or iPad. The multi-layered Defender Series iPhone 5/5S (also 5C, 4/4S, 3G/3GS) case guards against drops, shocks and dust while maintaining seamless usability. There is also a Defender version for iPads (mini Retina, Mini, Air, 4, 3, 2).

The high-impact polycarbonate shell fully covers the iPhone or iPad while the integrated screen protector guards against scratches and smudges. The built-in memory foam cushions the device inside the case while the outer slipcover absorbs impact from drops and shocks. The included holster (screen cover on the iPad) clips to nearly anything and doubles as a kickstand for hands-free use.

These rugged, multi-layer cases ready the iDevices for heavy use and potential mishaps from my sometimes rough and tumble life. Each has port plugs which keep out dust and debris (but not covers over the speakers, microphones, or cameras). The Defender series is not waterproof (the Preserver series has that feature), but otherwise provides a high degree of protection.

Installation of the Defender series cases is very straight forward and easy to accomplish (be sure the iPhone or iPad is clean first so dust is not trapped inside, particularly the screen). But, if you must access the bare iDevice (such as for a Galileo motor mount or other holder), taking the case off is much more challenging since the snap-together plastic fasteners are very secure. The rubber slip cover is not too difficult (though a snug fit), but great care is needed in removing the plastic shell (a thin chisel-shaped hard plastic pry tool is very handy). This case is truly designed to protect my unit under the roughest conditions, and not be in danger of breaking apart.

I find the built-in screen protector to be very durable and resistant to scratches or impact, but it does require a little more pressure for daily use. In addition, the very sturdy rubber menu button on the iPad requires extra pressure to activate (the iPhone does not have a menu button cover because of the finger-print recognition). As expected, neither device feels light and thin any more, but instead feels durable and sturdy, with excellent grip and hold.

I can certainly see how OtterBox earned it great reputation for excellent protection (and it looks good too). The belt-clip on the iPhone unit swivels well and clips on with ease (it does stick out from the hip more than is comfortable though). The plastic screen cover for the iPad is ingenious because it can snap on the front (or back), and has a built-in hinged brace and stops which allow for easy horizontal or vertical mounting of the iPad at several angles (nicely designed piece).

At www.otterbox.com, you can purchase the Defender Series case for the iPhone 5S for $59.95 (the slip cover or plastic shell can be purchased separately). A Defender Series case for iPad mini or iPad mini with Retina display is available for $79.90 (the slip cover and shell can also be purchased separately). Other models like the Utility Series Latch II, Commuter and Symmetry series are also available. I now get protection that inspires confidence with the Defender Series cases from OtterBox.

Galileo robotic iPhone stand: Motorized swivel mount

a review by Tom Piper

It has often been repeated (accurately) that the best camera is the one with me. My iPhone 5S is truly always with me, and an excellent camera with many cool features. There are many accessories now available which greatly enhance its power and versatility (plus delight). I’ve found another cool accessory you should know about.

Originally a Kickstarter project almost two years ago with over $700,000 in funding, the Motrr Galileo turns my iPhone (or iPod touch) into a remotely-controlled video camera with 360˚ rotation. I just swipe a finger on my iPad mini screen and the Galileo responds, orienting my iPhone left or right, up or down. I can actually control what I see from another room, or from another location far away using the app called AirBeam.

With a different app called Sphere, I can capture and share spherical panoramas automatically. Spherical photography used to be just for pros, but with Galileo and the Sphere app (free), I’m one tap away from beautiful, multi-exposure spherical panoramas. If I want HD panoramas quickly and easily, then my app choice is DMD Panorama ($4.99). For breathtaking time-lapses sequences, then I can use the app TimeLapse ($4.99) for precision control.

I’ve used the Galileo in many locations from my favorite coffee shop to restaurants to homes to scenic sites like the beautiful State Capitol Building, all with successful. My recommendation for best “stitching” of the images together is to provide some distance between the Galileo and the subject (if too close, the images don’t match perfectly). Grand outdoor panoramas (like forests, lakes and urban landscapes) or large indoor spaces (like auditoriums, rotundas or convention halls) are all captured with magnificence. The time lapse feature has no such suggestions, but has the advantage of both vertical and horizontal ranges that can be scanned in combination with timed photos, providing some very entertaining and informative sequences.

This unit is very compact, durable and versatile with great battery life. Instructions for setup and operation are easy to follow and implement. Other apps are also available for alarm functions, WristVision for the Pebble smartwatch and other still under development. The Motrr community of app developers has integrated with Galileo to bring a new dimension of motion control to their apps. The possibilities continue to grow with more apps on the way.

Galileo comes with a several rubber inserts into which the iPhone or iPod touch is inserted to secure it in the unit. I wish they had also provide an “oversized” insert so I don’t have to remove the iPhone case to use it. The addition of a cloth carrying bag would also have been nice to protect it during transport. The package also included a micro-USB cable for charging. Several of the apps also include features to help you share your images with friends and family.

The Motrr Galileo Bluetooth (white or black) is available for iPhone 5S, iPhone 5C, iPhone 5, iPhone 4S, and iPod Touch 5th generation for $149.95 from www.motrr.com. The 30-pin version for iPhone 4S, iPhone 4, iPhone 3GS and iPod Touch 4th generation can be purchased at the same location for $129.95. This is a great vacation accessory that can help you bring back stunning pictures from any trip (or even around your daily life).

01/07/14 appleJAC Meeting CANCELLED

Jefferson City Public Schools and Immaculate Conception School will be closed on Tuesday, January 7, 2014 — consistent with our inclement weather policy, the appleJAC MUG Board has decided to cancel this meeting, and move the topic to our February 4, 2014, regular meeting.

We do this to respect your safety and security during this time of slick roads and dangerously low temperatures. Please enjoy this time in the warmth of your homes.

President's Place: January 2014

by Tom Piper, appleJAC President (again)

As I reflect back (this is written the day after Christmas), I remember the many great people who have been involved with appleJAC over the past 29 years and amazing meetings that we have shared (our first newsletter cover is at right). We have had much to dance about and to be grateful for as we have embraced the wonders of incredible technology, the value of exceptional quality products, and the thrill of progressive innovation. Our lives are better for these products, and richer as a result of the knowledge and productivity gained at our monthly gatherings. 

2014 is the beginning of my 18th year as President of this most enjoyable (and sometimes exhausting) adventure. I took a few minutes to journey back to our humble beginnings when I came across some memorable words from a charter member Mark Roebuck: "What I DO remember are those first meetings and particularly Tom’s infectious enthusiasm and boundless energy. The group was small, geeky to be sure (a word I don’t recall existing at the time), and a lot of fun." Interestingly, my enthusiasm now is even greater now than in the early days, even though my energy has definite limits. Thanksfully, fun has also been the dependable hallmark of our meetings.

Our last meeting focused on "iOS in the Car" with Dr. Marian Petrides describing the many ways to integrate portable technology into our vehicles. This was followed by  the Annual Meeting with treasury reports from Sue Snell and activity reports for the year from me. Elections were held for 2014 officers with the following results:

    President                 Tom Piper
    Vice-President         Joe Mertzlufft
    Secretary                 Ann Lane
    Treasurer                 Sue Snell
    Webmaster               Dustin Stark
    Members-at-Large:   George Kopp
                                    Peggy Landwehr
                                    Dan Walsh
                                    Larry Garvin 
                                    Marian Petrides
                                    Greg Breuer

Door prize winners for this last meeting of 2013 were:

    Sharon Hanson          iPole camera holder
    Larry Hoffman          Mountain Lion Tips and Tricks (book)
    Rick Hanson              $10 iTunes card

The next meeting topic is "20 Gadgets in 60 Minutes" (which will also include 3 bonus items. You will also have an opportunity to show off the new technology-related items you got for Christmas. See the agenda below for details of the gadgets (apps, hardware, software, more) to be presented.

You will notice that the new agenda format includes an extra space at the bottom for suggestions for future meeting topics and items for which you have an interest or question. This is where we need your help with things to present for the rest of the year (note that we don't yet have a topic for February). By the way, don't miss the new review articles below this article. Come to our next meeting, and help us kick off the new year . . .

GroovBoard: iPad Laptop Wood Elegance

a review by Tom Piper

I have three iPads in my home, all of which need to be held vertically from time to time for easy reading and reference. I’ve collected a variety of stands over the years, but my latest acquisition deserves publicity.

The GroovBoard is burly, sturdy and has lots of character. The beech wood of my model is a great fit for a Scandinavian interior design style (for example IKEA) or any other style with bright, modern colors. It combines the minimalistic purity of the maple model with the warm character of the cherry model. This model features:

• Solid beech construction with a solvent-free linseed oil finish, neodymium magnets, and self-adhesive anti-slip rubber feet
• Size of 11.8 x 9 x 0.95 inches (300 x 230 x 24 mm) and weight of 2.4 lbs (1,100 grams)
• Supports iPad 1, 2, 3, 4, Air and mini with Smart Covers
• Stylus holders support styluses of up to 12 mm diameter, such as the Wacom Bamboo Stylus, Adonit Jot Pro, Pogo Sketch, or various ink pens
• Protective bag included

The GroovBoard gives me several options for using my iPad comfortably with or without an external keyboard, with a stylus, on my couch or easy chair, in bed or at a desk or table. In flat mode, the two main grooves hold my iPad securely at two distinct angles, and let me use an external keyboard when the iPad is in the back groove.

In upright mode, the iPad sits in the top groove, rested against my thighs and the back (or, in this mode, upper) groove becomes a mount for the Apple Wireless Keyboard. Two stylus holders on the left and right side of the board hold on to my stylus in both flat and upright mode. When the GroovBoard is used in upright mode with my knees pulled up, I can remove the magnetically attached handrest to move the iPad to a lower, more comfortable position, if desired. This is most useful when using the iPad in this position without an external keyboard.

When I want to use the GroovBoard on my desk or countertop, six anti-slip rubber feet support it, and protect both the GroovBoard and the respective surface from scratches. When I watch movies on my iPad, with a speaker placed in front of the iPad with the front facing the iPad's screen, the sound gets reflected off of the screen at an angle that makes it sound like the audio is coming right out of the iPad. I can even sit a cup of coffee or other refreshment right on the board when using the iPad (as long as I don’t jiggle it).

This is a wonderful unit that is available in Alder, Antique Oak, Apple, Bamboo, Beech, Cherry, Maple, Plum or Walnut. You can learn more about its features and functionality at http://groovboard.co. It is made in southern Bavaria, Germany, and can be purchased for $99 plus shipping (usually $24 to the US). You can also get accessories such as a Sensu Brush, Wacom Bamboo stylus, stylus nibs, GroovBoard cushion, iPad sleeve (Merino, Lleyn Sattlerschorsch Muuh, filz:stueck Leather, or Rum Diary), or Vandebag iPad skin or case. This is an unusual, high quality and treasured family of products that won’t disappoint you.