appleJAC Users Group

December 2022 agenda

appleJAC members and prospectives:

We are so pleased to once again present a wide variety of gadgets this year, and they are REALLY interesting (see attached agenda).

This is also our Annual Meeting when we invite members to become officers for 2023 to help keep our topics interesting and educational . . . nominations are OPEN, and volunteers are needed!

See you at the meeting,

Tom

aJ President

MuteMe: Tiny Silencer Buttons

a review by Tom Piper

While taking part in a video conference such as Zoom, sometimes I need to mute my microphone to cough, suppress background noises, or simply be polite while other people are talking. Whether its the microphone button, or Command-Shift-A, or the space bar, or something else with the keyboard or mouse, muting is often overlooked or misapplied when its most needed. 

With the recent pandemic accelerating the remote meeting model, the adoption of video conferencing tools has presented new challenges. Thankfully, there are now some innovative alternatives that are convenient, informative and effective.

At CES 2022, I stumbled onto MuteMe™ which uses proprietary technology in an illuminated peripheral device and companion app on my computer to mute/unmute the default microphone AND sync with popular conferencing software such as Zoom, Teams, WebEx, Skype, Google Meet, GoToMeeting and many more. MuteMe is a safer and more compatible way to ensure that my mic is muted.

Not only does it easily control the mute function, but MuteMe lets me and others around me know when I am in a meeting, and when my computer is muted/unmuted. This is ideal when working from home or when I get numerous interruptions in other locations (like group presentations). It also allows me to customize my color selection for each status with 8 color options (including LED off). The free downloaded app provides many other features like sleep mode, brightness control, pulse control, push-to-talk, push-to-mute, multi-platform sync, and others which make it a great tool in virtual meetings.

MuteMe connects through a USB-C (on device) to a USB-A or USB-C connector (on computer) using a USB-C to USB-A adapter is included in the box. This device is a 2.3” W x 0.9” H light-weight 360° lighted button with Capacitive Touch to work with all types of different microphones as long as they connect to the computer including USB or wired connections, and Bluetooth headsets with built-in microphones, as well as AirPods. It works with macOS, Windows 10, and Linux (with Chrome in the near future, and iOS and Android being studied for potential compatibility).

In order to better communicate how MuteMe works with the various video conferencing applications that I use, the company came up with Sync Levels that explains how it works with Zoom, Teams and others. Level 1 is Microphone Sync which allows the system's default microphone to stay in sync with MuteMe (the mute/unmute button in the conferencing app won't change when my MuteMe status changes). Level 2 is Mute/Unmute Button Sync where the system’s default microphone and the mute/unmute button in the conferencing app stays in sync with MuteMe. Level 3 is Full Sync (my preference for Zoom) when the system’s default microphone and the mute/unmute button in the conferencing app are fully in sync with MuteMe (the device will detect when I change my mute status from the conferencing app). Most settings for other seldom-used apps should be set to Level 1.

Suffice it to say, the MuteMe button and app combination initially looks like a simple on/off switch for the mic, but it is actually a multi-functional audio/visual feedback system that can be adapted to any video conferencing system I want to use. It is amazing how much can be customized so that my online interaction is smooth and professional in appearance and effect. After using it for a number of Zoom calls, I now wonder how I ever did without it. 

To learn more about the MuteMe products, go to https://muteme.com/collections/all where the original MuteMe is available for $39.00 (a new MuteMe Mini can also be preordered for $19.99). Their website is a treasure-trove of narrative, videos, Q&As, and detailed explanations about all aspects of this ingenious device. MuteMe™ was founded by a small team of engineers, computer scientists, marketing managers, tinkers, and entrepreneurs in the fall of 2020 who saw first the issues people were having with their on-screen mute buttons. This product is a terrific response to a seldom-appreciated online communication dilemma.

 

AirTamer: Quality Air Cleaner

a review by Tom Piper

As far back as 1830, air cleaners were patented as devices designed to remove contaminants from the air in a room to improve indoor air quality. They have been marketed as being beneficial to allergy sufferers and asthmatics, and at reducing or eliminating second-hand tobacco smoke. Covid-19 stimulated a new market to eliminate airborne particles for large and small areas, using a variety of purifying methods.

At CES 2022, I discovered The AirTamer A302 High Performance Personal Air Purifier which is marketed as the world’s most effective personal air purifier and is certified to filter 875% more air pollutants than its closest competitor. This unit’s design is ultra compact and incredibly versatile which allows me to wear it around my neck (strap included), or clip it to my shirt (includes integral clip), or stand it freely on a nightstand, desk or table so the air around me is clean. The “on” indicator light gently blinks to indicate it is cleaning the air.

The AirTamer’s state-of-the-art electrostatic purification creates a 3-foot sphere of cleaner, healthier air around my head. It cleans the air of atomic-sized pollutants (such as viruses, bacteria, pollen, dust, and others) that traditional air purifiers (like HEPA air purifiers) leave behind. Its new power boost technology has superior cleaning power by emitting a constant stream of healthy negative ions that force airborne pollutants away from my personal space, thus providing a zone of cleaner, healthier air to breathe.

A proprietary adjustable conductive lanyard dramatically improves performance and increases run time. This extremely energy-efficient technology provides 7 days of continuous use (over 3 times longer than competitive units) with 2 included lithium coin-cell batteries. The AirTamer A302 Personal Air Purifier includes a metal travel case to protect the air purifier when not in use. Maintenance is easy since there are no filters to replace.

I find this to be a very convenient air purifier to use in my home office, as well as when I’m driving (not to mention while being around other people, like in a restaurant). The device is unobtrusive, easy to carry and store, and has the advantage of running for 140 hours before the batteries require replacement (that’s a whole month if I wear it every day). In this time of Omicron and other variants of Covid-19, it is good to know that I have one more shield of protection around me.

To learn more about the AirTamer products, go to https://www.airtamer.com where this air purifier is available for $79.99. Other more advanced A310, A315 and A320 models are also available for $149.99 to $189.99. AirTamer has been the world’s best selling, most effective personal air purifier since 2004. They are trusted by healthcare workers, travelers, heads of states, celebrities, teachers, young and old.

 

G-Hold: Innovative Device Holders

a review by Tom Piper

Since the early 1990s, we’ve been using electronic devices which are generally connected to other devices or networks via different wireless protocols such as Bluetooth, NFC, Wi-Fi, 5G and others. To keep them safe and convenient, we have used clips, lanyards, hooks and other attachments to hold, stand and display them. Recently, we have seen new and inventive approaches to handling our valuable devices easier and safer. 

At CES 2022, I found the G-Hold ergonomic holders which include G-Hold Phone Holders, G-Hold Tablet Holders, and G-Hold Home Hangs. First is the Phone Holder & Stand which is designed to protect my hands and wrists, as well as my iPhone 13 Pro Max (with MagSafe case) plus most other brands and cases. It enables my phone to stand in both portrait and landscape positions, while being ideal for video calling and media viewing. The premium-comfort neoprene padding makes for an optimum holding experience, while the low-profile easy-release VELCRO fastener on the base rotates 360° and adjusts the position of the holder, but can be easily removed for wireless charging. This holder even comes in two sizes to accommodate large and small hands.

Next is the G-Hold Tablet Holder which features universal compatibility with all tablets and e-readers, including iPad Pro, iPad Air, iPad mini, MagSafe accessories and many other brands. The ergonomic design is scientifically proven to reduce strain on the hand and wrist, decreasing the likelihood of carpal tunnel syndrome. Like the phone holder, the contoured stems (stone tumbled for a smooth finish) slides between my fingers, providing maximum control with minimal effort and optimal comfort. It can rotate 360° for comfortable viewing in portrait or landscape, but still slide flat for easy storage. The VELCRO pad is strong, but easily detached when necessary. This handle makes it so much easier to handle my 12.9” iPad Pro.

The most unusual device is the G-Hold Home Hang which enables any phone, tablet or screen to be hung from any secure picture hook or utensil hanger. This can position my MacBook Pro or iPad Pro screen either high on my wall for standing or above my desk for sitting. Delightfully, I can follow recipes, watch sports, or video-call friends and relatives in the kitchen without worrying about getting food or liquid on my device. The high-quality super-slim VELCRO fastener attachment pads offer security and flexibility to adjust the position of my device. I can even cut the Loop (Velour) pads into smaller pieces to use for remote controls, dongles, mobile chargers, or anything else I want to hang on my wall. Who would have thought this possible, and yet be so handy and simple to do?

To learn more about G-Hold products, go to https://g-hold.com where the original Phone Holder is available for $27.12 (cover colors in Dragon Skin, Ice Scream, Red Rum Cocktail, Barbarella Bash-Up and Metal Mesh-Up), Tablet Holder is available for $33.84 (Lux colors same as Phone Holder, or regular colors in champagne gold, red, rose gold, navy blue, black engraved newton’s theory, earth, moon and neptune), and the Home Hang Screen Riser is available for $20.33 (black only, 16-33% discount for 2-3). 

Their website also contains great narratives, videos, and detailed explanations and illustrations about all aspects of how to use their products. The founder, Alison Grieve, first invented patented hand-holding technology in 2009 for the food service industry. A former waitress, she came up with the idea for a fold-away handhold on the underside of service trays after witnessing a spectacular accident. G-Hold products are manufactured in Scotland for quality and durability.

 

RoadVise Phone Mount: Tough Versatile Charging

a review by Tom Piper

Since the invention of cellphones, we have had a need to mount them in our vehicles, desks and elsewhere, both mobile and stationary. It may have started with bag phones, but today we mount them on our windshields, dash, consoles, mirrors and more. The latest models provide excellent functionality and accessibility, as well as protection.

At CES 2022, I found the Arkon Mounts KNRM079 RoadVise Ultra heavy-duty sticky suction windshield or dash tablet or phone mount (featuring a cavity specially designed for use with the Apple MagSafe Charger or other similar Qi wireless charging solutions), which is part of Arkon’s RoadVise Ultra Phone and Tablet Holder Series.

The car mount’s solid construction provides strength and reliability on the road by featuring a spring-loaded mechanism that expands to securely grip phones (plus an adjustable expansion screw). The 80mm sticky suction base works well in all climates by using a powerful combination of polyurethane gel and suction to provide a maximum surface bond. The RoadVise Ultra holder fits phones or tablets with cases measuring 2.52 to 5.71 inches wide, including Apple iPhone from the X up to the 13 Pro Max, plus small (7-8 inch screen size) tablets, including Apple iPad Mini 6th Generation. Arkon recommends using the RoadVise Holder with smartphones with cases. 

The RoadVise Ultra car mount attaches onto windshields and features an 80mm TPU suction base that works well in all climates. An optional adhesive mounting disk is included for dashboard mounting. The arm of the pedestal swivels on both the top and the bottom, providing 360-degree rotation and the ultimate flexibility in positioning the smartphone at any angle. 

The KNRM079 is a solid mount solution that’s perfect for my needs. I mount it on my desk next to my computer for convenient, quick and secure access. Placing my MagSafe charger in the fitted depression behind the phone works well and keeps my iPhone 13 Pro Max fully charged while I’m working.

I also received the 132-page Arkon Mounts catalog which includes an incredible variety of mounts, claims, connectors, chargers and everything I could ever want (and more than I could imagine) to mount phone, tablets, cameras, GPS and other portable devices in cars, trucks, tractors, buses, skid loaders, boats, bicycles, motorcycles and almost anything used for transportation, construction, agriculture, trucking, delivery, recreation and more.

To learn more about the RoadVise Ultra iPhone Mount, go to https://www.arkon.com/ where it can be purchased for $54.95. To download any of their 16 online catelogs, go to https://www.arkon.com/CATALOGS.html. Founded in 1988, Arkon Resources, Inc. (Arkon Mounts®), is a leading global manufacturer and supplier of professional-grade mobile mounting solutions and accessories.

 

UGO WEAR: Premium Waterproof Protection

a review by Tom Piper

Protection for our valuable electronic devices has been essential since portable computers, iPods, iPhones, iPads and more were first introduced. It started with dust-proof and rugged construction, but has now moved up to waterproof and functional operation in the case.

Seen at CES 2022, I found that nothing compares to the reliability and functionality of the 100% waterproof UGO TABLET XL that actually floats. Featuring the innovative uZIP™ zipper technology, this case will fit tablets and laptops up to 13” (overall size: 13.5” H x 10.5” W x 1.25” D, 12 oz). While sealed in the case, my 12.9” iPad Pro can access apps, watch a movie, read a book, or sign documents without removing it.

The UGO’s spacious interior allows me to carry numerous electronic items, important documents, extra chargers and more. The hook-and-loop panel lets me organize those essential items for easy retrieval, and the inside zipper pocket provides additional storage. The included removable hand strap and adjustable shoulder strap, along with the hypalon anchors, allow me to hold, wear and clip the case and go anywhere.   

To carry my iPhone 13 Pro Max, the new and improved UGO Phone 2.0 dry bag is the best solution. It also features uZIP™ technology and is not only waterproof, but also floats, and fits all sized smartphones (overall size: 7.5” H x 4.75” W x 1.25” D, 7 oz). This small UGO can be used without removing it from the bag, yet with plenty of room for keys, cash, cards, passport, and medications. The included and adjustable shoulder/waist strap, along with the hypalon anchors, allow me to wear and use it anywhere. 

These innovative cases (sometimes referred to as “bags”) are the perfect accessory for any adventure while keeping me and my gear safe, dry and clean. The waterproof zipper at first seems hard to pull, but experience quickly shows that this is why it is so durable and impervious to the elements (each unit also comes with extra sealant for the zipper). This German engineered waterproof zipper has durable, rugged injection-molded polymer teeth that are fixed on both the top and bottom of the zipper tape and has been tested to 10,000 pulls with zero effect on wear. 

I really also like the sturdy anchors to which clips can be attached for a belt, water harness, safety line, small tools, handy lights or such. These dry bags are chlorine, UV, and saltwater resistant, there’s not a single stitch or glue used in the manufacturing process, and it’s submersible up to 20 feet for any length of time. It is also impressive to be able to use my iPhone or iPad while still sealed in the case, and protected from any accidental dunkings.

To learn more about UGO bags and there other products, go to https://ugowear.com where Signature Collection PHONE 2.0  can be purchased for $129.00 and the TABLET XL for $179.00 (they also have a SLIM case for $74.99, plus a variety of accessories. There is good reason why their slogan is “JUST ADD WATER” . . . it’s their mission and assurance of quality. This is a company started 8 years ago by two water-loving women in Minnesota who were tired of trying to keep their electronics dry, so they set out to solve a really big problem and successfully created UGO.

 

Hoglet: Innovative Fidget Device

a review by Tom Piper

Getting children to focus, especially kids with learning differences like ASD (autism spectrum disorder) and ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder), can be a huge challenge. Portable devices can be helpful and therapeutic in meeting these difficult tasks.

At CES 2022, I found the Hoglet by HedgeHog Health which is a cute computer “hedgehog” mouse that provides the multi-sensory experience kids with learning challenges need. Designed to improve focus, it’s fun, functional and therapeutic. 

Traditional computer pointing devices don’t provide the physical stimulation that many of these kids need. Trackpads, keyboards, and traditional mice are cold, hard, and lifeless. Trackpads require fine motor skills that younger children and kids with ASD often lack.

That’s an especially big problem now during the COVID-19 pandemic, as many children are unable to go to school, and access to autism centers and traditional in-person therapy is severely limited. Parents need better ways to keep their children engaged in essential therapeutic and educational activities at home.

That’s why this computer mouse was created specifically for learning-challenged kids. It’s designed from the ground up to provide the rewarding multi-sensory experience these children crave. Simply put, it’s a delight to look at, hold and use. Kids – and adults, too – can’t keep their hands off it.

Its called Hoglet because it looks like a baby hedgehog. Soft, cuddly, and friendly – the Hoglet is a comforting bridge between the familiar physical world and the virtual world of the computer screen. It anchors a child’s attention and has a calming, centering effect.

To learn more about the HedgeHog, go to https://www.hedgehoghealth.com where it can be purchased for $39.99 (colors are available in watermelon, apricot, lime, grape and blueberry). The HedgeHog Health team is composed of  doctors, ABA therapists, and parents and family of children with autism. They are expert advisors working directly with parents to navigate the journey of an autism diagnosis, and deliver tech-inspired ASD solutions that enhance a child’s progress, right from home.

 

Liddle Speaker: Magnetic Mega Sound

a review by Tom Piper

Dating back to 1861, the loudspeaker started in telephones, and evolved into dynamic speakers (invented in 1925) of today. Size, power, configurations and portability have changed dramatically with incredible fidelity now possible inexpensively and wirelessly.

As shown at CES 2022, the Liddle Speaker mag soundmate is a must-have Bluetooth compatible speaker for any music lover, thanks to the portable, durable designs and fantastic audio performances. I love the slickness of the speaker while ladies will enjoy how cute it fits into a purse or bag. 

The Liddle Speaker is the go-to sound solution for music fans looking to take our tunes wherever they go. The design fits well in the home and its rugged construction allows it to join me at the gym, driving or elsewhere. It is a 360-degree surround-sound magnetic wireless speaker that attached to any  ferrous metal, iPhone 12 or 13, and other surfaces using included adhesive metal rings. 

It links with any Bluetooth device and is IPX4 water resist and dust proof with a lithium ion battery offering up to 8 hours of play time (a pair of these speakers will create stereo). Perfect for outdoors, home, kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, hiking, camping, beach, boat, fishing, RV's, golf carts and so much more.

The full range of sound is amazing for such a small speaker, even bass is very respectable. It comes with a 24” USB-A to USB-C charging cable, plus a pair of metal adhesive rings for mounting on non-ferrous surfaces. The power button is also a Bluetooth indicator for use.

To learn more about the Liddle Speaker, go to https://theliddlespeaker.com where it can be purchased for $29.99 (available in rose gold, black or silver). A pair of these will most certainly put a smile on your face (just like it did mine)!

 

Omni-Electronics Power Chargers: Fast & Durable

a review by Tom Piper

Universal Serial Bus (USB) is an industry standard established in 1996 for cables, connectors and protocols for connection, communication and power supply for many electronic devices. New technology has produced devices that are super-fast speed, small size and very sturdy construction with USB-C 3.1 units leading the field. 

At CES 2022, I acquired the OMNI CHARGER MINI for cell phone and tablet. It is very small (W 1.2” x H 1.2” x D 1.5”, about a 1/4” larger than Apple’s iPhone charger) with high power density and low heat (due to Gallium nitride (GaN) application). Its Fast Charge Mode (30W max) supports my latest iPhone 12 and 13 models, as well as my new iPad mini, and other Android models. Input supports the Largest Global Voltage Range (90V~264Vac) with Output of USB-C of 5V/3A, 9V/3A, 12V/2.5A at Level VI efficiency.

For more power, I also acquired the OMNI CHARGER MAX for phone, tablet, notebooks and big gaming laptops. It too is small (W 1.1” x H 2.1” x D 2.1”, about a 1/4” larger than Apple’s iPad charger), also with even higher power density and low heat (due to Gallium nitride (GaN) application). Its Fast Charge Mode (65W max) supports everything the MINI does with both a USB-A (18W) and a USB-C (45-65W) port to charge two devices at once. The 65W adaptor has a surge protector that automatically resets itself once a power surge is detected, protecting my Mac. iPhone and iPad. This internal reset makes the adaptor usable again, while other 65W chargers do not reset and are rendered useless. Supported protocols for both chargers include Apple Mode, macOS, iOS, PPS (Omni Operating System Compatibility), Windows, Android, and Chrome OS.

In order to charge my iPhone 13 Pro Max, the OMNI USB-C TO 90° LIGHTNING CABLE completed my acquisitions. At 48” long, this white and silver braided micro-chipped cable will handle fast charging and connectivity speed of 480Mbps. I also really like the 90° reinforced jack which is great for gaming and movies while charging and transferring data. It is the perfect compliment to the Omni chargers.

These combination of devices are wonderful for home, work and travel, not only because of their small size and cool operation, but also due to their extra power and duality of charging. This can shorten the time to recharge our valuable devices, and lengthen our productivity and enjoyment time!

To learn more about these devices, go to https://omni-electronics.com where the chargers are available in black or white, and the cable in tiffany green, rose gold, pacific blue, white and black. These products will be available for consumer purchase at the end of April with the adaptors starting at USD30 and cables from USD15 for respective specifications. Visit their website for pre-orders or ask your local stores to carry Omni products. This is a wonderful solution for charging our iPhones, iPads and Macs from a company with a long and dependable history of quality and effective digital products.

 

AirPoint Ring: Innovative 3D Mousing

a review by Tom Piper

Since its introduction in 1968, the computer mouse has taken many shapes, sizes and forms, usually a two-dimensional device controlling a cursor on a screen. The evolution from joystick to wheels to balls, plus the addition of buttons and pads, led to the use of ultrasound, optical, inertia and gyroscopic sensors to enable three-dimensional interaction. The latest wireless devices have produced futuristic mice of advanced functionality.

At CES 2022, I first met the AirPoint Ring which is an invention that combines a ring-shaped finger wearable unit with advanced technology. This new device offers 3D navigation on top of the functionalities of a typical mouse, all controlled with my fingertips and hand motion. Thus, it makes for a versatile solution for presentations, gaming, 3D modeling while reducing the fatigue that many devices cause. 

The AirPoint Ring includes a rechargeable AirPoint charger (with a 42” USB-A to USB-C cable) that allows me to charge my Ring by magnetically docking it in its own case (a full charge will operate the Ring for about 8 hours). It also includes three “shims” which can be inserted into the Ring to match fingers of many sizes. The Ring is small at 1.4” x 1.3” x 1.5” (1.7 oz), while the charger case is 2.5” x 2.6” x 2.7” (5.3 oz) in size. It will work on either the right or left hand (usually worn on the index finger).

For traditional 2D control, there is an LED optical sensor on the bottom, with two capacitive touchpads on both sides (for right and left click) plus a tactile button (switch) inside the bottom of the Ring (for dragging and scrolling). For 3D control, motion is detected by an integrated gyroscope and 3D accelerometer, and the back switches change modes allowing for deactivation on the fly (the mechanical on/off switch is underneath the Ring). A presentation mode also enables advancement (or reversing) of slides by rotation of the wrist up to 100 feet away the computer.

The unit is paired to my computer via Bluetooth 5.0. Once the free Magnima AirPoint app is downloaded, I can change setting tools that let me highlight the cursor with spotlight, magnifier and laser pointer. This application connects with the AirPoint Ring to bring out the additional device modes, adjusts the 3D motion sensitivity, shift right hand to left hand use, and updates the device when new features are introduced. The Ring and app work with macOS 10.10 or later, as well as Windows 10 or later.

Being a new concept in cursor control, I felt a little clumsy when the Ring was mounted on my finger, until I reread the detailed (but simple) instruction about setup, initial use and advanced features. It is important to relax the hand and keep it in a comfortable position. Typing while wearing the Ring was also a little unnerving until I realized how easy it is to temporarily “disconnect” cursor movement until needed. It was also fun to be able to magnify selectively, and to use spotlight to emphasis areas that I wanted to focus on.

To learn more about the AirPoint Ring, go to https://magnima.com/product/airpoint-ring/ where this device can be purchased for $149.99 (or $129.99 until 01/31/22). This is a wonderful alternative for controlling your cursor and presentations. Established in 2017, Magnima is a subsidiary of the Brothers of St. Patrick, an international Roman Catholic religious congregation engaged in providing quality education for underprivileged communities worldwide.

 

Rolling Square inCharge X: Versatile & Durable

a review by Tom Piper

Universal Serial Bus (USB) was an industry standard established in 1996 for cables, connectors and protocols for connection, communication and power supply for many electronic devices. Lightning connectors were introduced by Apple in 2012. New technology has produced connection cables that are small, sturdy and multi-faceted.

Known as the “100W Swiss Army Knife of Cables” when I saw it a CES 2022, the inCharge X is an ultra-fast keyring connection cable that appears to be the best on the market. It allows USB-C to USB-C ultra fast charging up to 100W and Apple’s fast charging up to 18W. Thanks to its proprietary chip, this little cable can even charge laptops and tablets. 

If you have a phone with a USB-C port (Android, not yet Apple), inCharge X allows a phone or tablet to become a power source when standard charging ports are not nearby. Regardless of the devices, it supports both charging and data transfer, allowing quick transfer of data, with a speed of 480Mbit.

This combo cable is small at only 0.9 oz and 2.8” x 0.5” x 0.2” in a metal housing with 200 Braided copper wires, N52 Magnets, nylon reinforcement, and aramid fiber construction. On one end is either a USB-A or USB-C connector, and on the other end a USB-C or Lightning connector (which is also micro USB compatible), allowing any of six different combinations. This makes it compatible with a wide range of iPhone, iPad, iPod and other devices.

Its small size and magnetic closure make this cable an easy item to carry on a keychain, gadget bag or other convenient location. Its durable construction ensures long and useful life for years and miles to come.

To learn more about this and other devices, go to https://rollingsquare.com where this cable can be purchased for $29.00 in either Lava Black, Sapphire Blue or Marble Beige. This is a wonderful solution for charging our iPhones, iPads and other devices from a company with a long and dependable history of quality and effective digital products.

 

February 2022 Agenda

Cancelled due to inclement weather.

January 2022 appleJAC Meeting

This January 4 gathering of 20 appleJAC members (see agenda below) was particularly interesting with tips by Joe (T&T), hardware manuals presented by George (HardManuals.pdf) and software manuals presented by Jason (SoftwareManuals) . . . click on the link after each name to download their information for further viewing.

In order to view the video from the first half of the meeting, just click on AppleManuals—Part1, and for the second half click on AppleManuals—Part2. If weren't there, this is a great way to review this excellent information.

November 2021 Meeting Resources

The November 2, 2021, 7:00pm CDST, monthly meeting of appleJAC User Group about 30 Gadgets in 60 Minutes and macOS 12.01 Monterey had 25 people in attendance. The videos of this meeting before and after the break can be viewed by clicking on facebook.com/appleJAC.part1 and facebook.com/appleJAC.part2.

In order to view the PDF slideshow of George's macOS Monterey, Joe's Tips and Tricks, Jason's Apple announcement and all the gadgets at this meeting, just click on this link: applejac-november-2021-topics.

 

Agenda-October 2021

OWC Envoy Pro SX: Rugged T3 Power

a review by Tom Piper

Solid state drives (SSDs) have made huge advancements in SSD and Thunderbolt technology over the past 40 years which have produced devices of super-fast speed, small size and very sturdy construction.

OWC Envoy Pro SX is a USB4 and Thunderbolt 3-certified bus-powered small, storage solution. It has incredible speed up to 2847MB/s real-world performance. At 0.6” x 2.8” x 4.5” and 10.4 ounces in size, with a detachable 27” Thunderbolt 3 cable, this unit runs cool and soundless enclosed in a black aluminum case (IP67 rated) that provides great data protection. It is so rugged that my data is protected by military-level drop toughness, plus being dust and water-proof.

As OWC states online, this new unit is: “Super-fast. Super-versatile. Super-portable. And rugged enough to endure the most perilous work and play settings.” This SSD handles all data storage and backup challenges with the following benefits:

• Advanced OWC Aura Pro SSD storage technology with TRIM support works with Thunderbolt 3
• Perfect for audio, video, photography, graphics, gaming, and general data storage and backup uses
• Bus-powered and smaller than most compact smartphones
• Fan-less, heat-dissipating aluminum housing 
• Compatible with macOS and Windows built-in encryption
• LED for at-a-glance confirmation of power and activity status
• 3-Year OWC Limited Warranty

I can now use my 240 gigabyte Envoy Pro SX as a super-fast data-transfer drive for my 16” MacBook Pro, plus a convenient volume for more storage, movies and a variety of other handy uses. I also use it with my 12.9” iPad Pro, and 15” Asus Chromebook. Most importantly, data transfer runs faster than any other storage device that I use.

In real life use, a 5.52 GB folder of 16,369 files copied over in less than 3 minutes! Single files transfer even faster, such as a 1.31 GB movie that copied from my computer in only 4 seconds!!!

Obviously, this device is meant to be used for situations where spinning hard drives would be slow and cumbersome. Whether its large video files being transferred in extreme conditions, music productions being frequently edited, frequent relay of data from one technology to another, or cloning backups for Apple’s latest M1 computers, the Envoy Pro SX is the best choice for raw speed, functionality, convenient-size and durability. This is an incredible tool to support my technology needs.

To learn more about this enclosure, go to https://www.owcdigital.com/products/envoy-pro-sx where it can be purchased for $179 - $479 (240GB - 2.0TB) with a 3-Year OWC Limited Warranty. This is a wonderful solution for storing and transmitting our precious data, video and power from a company with a long and dependable history of quality and effective digital products.

 

August 2021 -- Mac Backup and Storage

George Kopp and Jason Piper's meeting presentation:

Download IOS and Mac Backup

 

Meeting Agenda - August, 2021

May 2021 appleJAC meeting information

As announced at the May 4 member meeting, this year's Annual appleJAC Picnic will be held "in-person" on June 1, 2021, at 6:00 pm. The location of the picnic will be at the Cole County Park Pavilion, 4301 County Park Rd, behind the Cole County fairgrounds in Jefferson City.

To celebrate our return to in-person meetings, the appleJAC Board of Directors has decided that appleJAC will pay for a catered meal from Lutz Famous BBQ for each attending member.

Each meal will consist of a Sandwich or Salad. Water and cookies for desert will be provided, but feel free to also bring your favorite beverage.

Guests will be charged $12.50 for their meal, and members will be responsible for this fee the night of the picnic. 

Please complete the appropriate Registration Forms before May 15 in order to ensure your orders and attendance. For each member, click the link below, then enter a separate form for guest choices for their meal:

https://forms.gle/maCcGg1aES8dUw5h8

To download Apple Announcements from Jason Piper, click on this link: appleJAC-2021-05-announcements.TAnd, to download the slideshows on "The Future of the Mac" from Jason and George Kopp, click on these links: App Compatibility and Apple M1.

To view the video from tonight's meeting, click on this link: https://youtu.be/sOYGxAW0jpc.

 

OWC Envoy Pro Elektron: Stunning Pocket Power

a review by Tom Piper

Over 40 years ago, solid state drives (SSDs) were implemented in semiconductor memory for early supercomputers. Since then, there have been huge advancements in SSD and Thunderbolt technology which have produced devices of incredible speed, size and sturdiness.

OWC Envoy Pro Elektron is a universal Thunderbolt3-certified bus-powered tiny-sized storage solution. Powered by a OWC Aura SSD advanced storage technology, it has incredible speed up to 1011MB/s real-world performance. At 0.5” x 2” x 3” and 3 ounces in size, with a detachable 27” Thunderbolt 3 cable (plus USB 3.2 Type-A adapter), this unit runs cool and quiet enclosed in a silver aluminum case (IP67 rated) that provides great data protection. It is so rugged that my data is protected by military-level drop toughness, plus being dust and water-proof.

As their website says, since the earliest days of mobile computing, there’s been a frequent user desire: “make it smaller, faster, lighter, and rugged.” This unit does all of this and handles my audio, video, photo, graphics, and gaming tasks in an incredibly small package. Because it is universally compatible, it can access and save files from my older machines, backup personal and business files, and do large format video editing. This powerful drive is built to deliver.

I can now use my one terabyte Envoy Pro Elektron as a super-fast boot and backup drive for my MacBook Air, plus a convenient volume for more storage, movies and a variety of other handy uses. I now use it with all 5 of my Macs, 4 iPad Pros, and a Chromebook. Most importantly, when plugged into my 16” MacBook Pro, data transfer runs faster than any other storage device that I use.

Since the earliest days of mobile computing, there’s been a common user desire mantra: “make it smaller, faster, lighter, and rugged.” Pocket-sized tiny and crushproof, the Envoy Pro Elektron puts massive-sized personal and work files in the palm of my hand while pushing USB-C’s bandwidth to the max (while still backwards compatible with USB-A connections) so I can edit and save wherever, whenever with virtually any of my devices.

In real-world terms, this unit already stores over 700 of my movies, but it could otherwise hold 200,000 photos, or 50,000 songs, or 4.3 million Pages documents, just to name a few examples of its capacity. And transfer speeds are done in minutes, not hours!

Obviously, this device is meant to be used for situations where spinning hard drives would quickly fail. Whether its large video files being transferred in extreme conditions, music productions being frequently edited, frequent relay of data from one technology to another, or cloning backups for Apple’s latest M1 computers, the Envoy Pro Elektron is the best choice for raw speed, functionality, compact-size and durability. This is a marvelous tool to support my technology needs.

To learn more about this enclosure, go to https://eshop.macsales.com/shop/owc-envoy-pro-elektron where it can be purchased for $99 - $369 (240GB - 2.0TB) with a 3-Year OWC Limited Warranty. This is a powerful solution for storing and transmitting our precious data, video and power from a company with a history of quality and effective digital products.

 

Mac Security

A wonderful blog post that many Apple users will positively love about Mac Security:

https://www.safetydetectives.com/blog/keep-mac-computer-secure/

 

Suggested by Benjamin Brown <BenjaminBrown@onlinefreedomsafety.com>