appleJAC Users Group

Mac/iOS Combo Apps: Maximize Wi-Fi Productivity

a review by Tom Piper (an update to a 2012 posting, see bottom for more info)

For the last two years, I’ve wanted (but have not been able) to record my iPad or iPhone screen to do training videos without using a video camera to capture it. It also seemed to me that we should be able to live broadcast my video camera to my iPad. And, when will I be able to touch-control my Mac screen (without using a Wacom tablet)? The power of AirPlay has helped to now make all of this possible.

AirPlay wireless streaming (originally called AirTunes 2004-2010) was designed to make it easy to tap into your iTunes library through Apple TV. You just open iTunes on your laptop or Apple portable device, and select Apple TV in the AirPlay menu. You can then control the volume remotely, and even stream the music simultaneously to additional AirPlay-compatible components. You can also send music or video from your iPhone, iPod touch or iPad (even play games on your TV using your iPhone as the controller, hearing the soundtrack through your audio system). I have found that I can also play Internet radio stations through iTunes, or sound from my iPhone or iPad apps — including music services such as Pandora Internet radio, Rhapsody, and Last.fm. 

Apple TV gives you a virtually unlimited selection of high-definition movies, TV shows, video, and photos to explore. This wireless digital media receiver can play music from your computer, show photos from your iPhone, even access your media collection stored online in the iCloud. The newest Apple TV can stream full 1080p high-definition video and audio. You'll enjoy your favorite TV shows, movies and even photo slideshows in breath-taking 1080p resolution. And, with the ability to deliver Dolby Digital 5.1 surround sound, your movies and shows will sound as good as they look, all for only $99.99.

But, if you have an iPad 2, the new iPad or iPhone 4S, you're not just limited to audio. Your device also has AirPlay Mirroring functionality (introduced in 2011 as part of iOS 5) which means you can wirelessly stream what's on its screen to your TV screen through the Apple TV. Show everyone what's on your device, even when you zoom in or change from portrait to landscape. This concept has been adapted into some really cool apps, four of which I’m describing here because they are cutting-edge innovative multi-device approaches that expand utility and functionally in unique ways that enhance the thrill and excitement of our Mac and iOS device investments.

AirBeam turns your iPhones, iPod touchs or iPads into a realtime audio and video surveillance system. It streams live video and audio from the cameras and microphones of any number of iPhones, iPod touchs or iPads. You can watch the stream on any other iDevice, Mac or Web browser, even on multiple screens simultaneously. Use your iDevices as luxury baby monitors, for serious surveillance, to keep an eye on your pets, a FPV cam in your remote control toys, and hundreds of useful (and not so useful) things you can do with it. Even if you have just a single device, AirBeam is an awesome tool for motion-controlled video recording. This universal app is available on the iTunes Store for $3.99.

Air Display can satisfy your wish for an extra display for your Mac (or Windows) computer. You can use your iPad, iPhone, or iPod touch as a wireless display, to extend your computer desktop. Air Display works in both landscape and portrait configurations (you just rotate your screen, and it automatically reconfigures). This makes a laptop much more useful by adding the iPad's 1024x768 display which nearly doubles the screen area of a laptop (except the 2009 15” /17” MacBook Pros) or netbook. Air Display not only gives you a wireless computer screen extender, but also works as a tablet input device. You can use your finger to draw directly on the screen's surface such as with a calculator, painting tool, music control surface, iWorks Inspector, email location, and more (simple gestures allow you to operate the right mouse button and scroll wheel too). This program is available at the Mac App Store for $9.99.

Reflector 2 allows you to use AirPlay to mirror your iPhone 4S, iPad 2 or new iPad to any Mac running OS X 10.6+, wirelessly. I can now easily demo iOS apps on any Mac running OS X Lion using AirPlay Mirroring on iOS 5, and record it using QuickTime, ScreenFlow or other screen recorders. I can now enable/disable an iPhone or iPad “wrapper” (this preserves the look of the device around the screen), change the color, record the screen, and more. Amazingly, I can also display any iOS game on either my 27” iMac or 17” MacBook Pro screen, even show my iPad  2 and iPhone 4S on the screen at the same time (no, you can’t “touch” them, is display). A free trial version (fully-function for 10 minutes) is available at airsquirrels.com/reflector, and the full purchase price is $14.99.

AirParrot will place our Mac's screen on your Apple TV. You can choose the display the AirPlay device will mirror to in order to enjoy your video and audio. Also adjustable is the quality versus speed performance, show the mouse cursor, and adjust that nasty overscan. This program is built from the ground up to support the great things in OS X Lion while also supporting OS X Snow Leopard. A free trial version (fully-function for 10 minutes) is available at www.airparrot.com, and the full purchase price is $9.99.

These are amazing Mac and iOS apps which fully utilize the power of Wi-Fi through Airplay and Apple TV to achieve a new level of productivity. And, they are FUN to boot!

I've also been recently informed of another comparative review of ways to record screen videos by JP Zhang which can be found at softwarehow.com/ios-screen-recorder-guide. Its just amazing what you can do with these great apps!

 

President's Place: November 2013

MacOS 10.9 Mavericks has arrived, along with a host of new and upgraded products. After only one day of review of these new opportunities, the appleJAC Board quickly concurred that a change of focus was needed for the Nov. 5 meeting. We have dubbed it: "Mavericks plus Update Mania", as you can see in the agenda (see below) showing a splash of iconic topics.

Our last meeting was focused on "iOS7: A Whole New Perspective" when George Kopp provided an outstanding overview of many of the 250 new features in this operating system for our iPhones, iPads and iPod touches. (George followed this with a delightful iPad Class on Oct. 20 which many non-members attended). We also announced the iDevice Photo contest which was won by Dan Walsh (first and People's Choice, see earlier article), with Julie Smith and Ros Moulton coming in second and third. The evening doorprizes were won by:

• Bonnie Culley     Wooden laptop
• Jule Smith          Make the Best of 75 Projects (book)
• Dustin Stark        Incipio white iPhone 4/4S case
• Gayle Fuller        Uniea gray iPhone 4/4S case
• Tom Vaughn        Qmadix black iPhone 4/4S case
• Joes Mertzlufft    Uniea Rebelution iPhone 4/4S case
• Bestsy Zindle       Qmadix black/gray iPhone 4/4S case
• Peggy Landwher  Orange/black diamond  iPhone 5/5S case
• Larry Garvin        iPhone 4/4S power cord and charger
• Jim Stevenson      iPhone 4/4S power cord and charger
• Steve Archer        iPhone 4/4S earphones/mic
• Paul VanHorn       iPhone 4/4S earphones/mic
• Terry Larkin         iPod schuffle charger cord

Door prizes the next month will be reduced due to reduced inventory, but will include an iTunes $10 gift card. How do you feel about the drawings, would you like them to be expanded, reduced or eliminated?

I hope you can make it (along with friends and family) to our next meeting. It is going to be fun and very educational. Our previous topic of "20 Gadgets in 60 Minutes" will be postponed to either December or January (let us know if you have a preference).

President's Place

by Tom Piper

March was incredibly busy for me . . . got married to Letha, moved into our new home, and am learning how to combine two households into one. So much to do in so little time, and have learned how hard it is to live without the Internet during this transition.

I wish I had been at the last meeting to enjoy Dustin's presentations about Mail Tags 3 and 1Password. The winners of doorprizes that evening were:

• Marge Van Horn - iTunes card
• Greg Bruer - gadgets
• Bill Krause - Mac Book case
• Marion Petrides - head phones
• Julie Koenigsfeld - airplane
• Peggy Landwehr - grocery bag
• Todd McCluskey - storage bag
• Carole Van Vranken - unknown
• Bonnie Culley- grocery bag
• Jim Springs - airplane
• Trish Alexander - T-shirt
• Shubba Miller - airplane

Our next meeting will feature "How to Use AppleTV", various features of the AirPort Extreme, and a chance to stump (not "stomp") the presenter, George Kopp. Bring your best questions to really test his memory.

Friends and family are always welcome. Help others enjoy the benefits of our group.

 

ReAuthored iPad “Book” Cases: Cool Disguised Protection

a review by Tom Piper

iPad protection has always been a primary concern for me. Not only do I want to guard against jarring, weather and normal wear & tear, but I’m also concerned about security, since theft is easy and quick in many places. I recently found a great product that both protects and “hides” my precious iPads.

A new family-owned company cleverly named ReAuthored has come up with a unique, practical and effective “book case”. Not a book shelf, but rather a case made from real recycled hardback books . . . their motto is: “same book, new story”. The pages inside are carved out to exactly match any full-sized or mini iPad (or Kindle, or Nexus, or Nook).

This ReAuthored case measured a little over 7” x 10” for my iPad mini, and about 9” x 11” for my iPad 3. The interior compartment is beautifully lined with textured black or brown leather, dark or light brown or black floral, or black crocodile (all include a convenient fabric tab for easy device removal). The exterior design includes book categories including art, history, photography, science/technology, sports or travel (or, you can supply your own book of similar size). These books are handmade using the original covers and pages.

My iPads fit snugly, and are secured by corner elastic straps inside. (Port or button access can also be cut at an additional cost). On the outside is a large elastic band on the back which is either a neat handhold, or will slip over the front cover to hold everything together for transport. Inside the back cover is a long wide strap with a magnet on the end which attaches to the front cover to hold the book open and secure the iPad upright for vertical use. (A nice touch is the library card inside the back cover with promo bookmarks from ReAuthored co-owners Maha and JC Holmes).

This book case is tough and durable, while convenient and highly functional. Whether traveling or at home, this enclosure effectively disguises its contents while providing easy access to my iPads. As these innovators say, “Judging a book by its cover can be a good thing” and being environmentally friendly will “consider it recycling outside the box”. I’ve found theses cases to be useful, and an interesting conversation piece for new viewers.

I believe in this product, and advocate for its use. The Holmes family members are committed to producing high-quality products that are responsive and supportive of their customers. They are also caring of the Apple user group community by offering a 20% discount as quoted below. (More product description can be found at http://www.reauthored.com, along with a very interesting Q&A, and owner background).

Now you can have your own full-size iPad and/or iPad mini book case from ReAuthored which is truly one-of-a-kind. This case doesn't just look like a book; each one is handcrafted into the pages of a real recycled hardback. Cases are custom-designed around your iPad, then created using only the highest quality materials, tools, and techniques to ensure that their functionality matches their classic form. It's a book, a case, a stand . . . it's tough as nails, and handmade in the USA.

The folks at ReAuthored proudly announce an exclusive Apple User Group special on iPad 1/2/3/4 and iPad mini Book Cases. Regularly $59 (US), this exclusive price is $47.20 (US) for any iPad (available in a variety of interior colors and designs in six different book categories).

Checkout coupon code for all iPads: AUG1337

Product Links: http://www.reauthored.com/products/ipad-3-case http://www.reauthored.com/products/ipad-mini-case

This worldwide offer is valid through May 8, 2013. 

President's Place

That must mean that it’s time for the much anticipated “20 Gadgets in 60 Minutes.” We’ll have several presenters sharing some of their favorite hardware or software that makes life easier or just more fun (a few examples below).

Please join us Nov. 6, 2012, at 7:00 PM in Kennedy Hall located on the lower level of Immaculate Conception School. Use the parking lot entrance off of Clark Ave. I would like to thank Sr. Josetta for garnering the space once again for us, we certainly appreciate it.

Congratulations to last month’s winners of the prize drawing:

• (Insert names and prizes here)

As it is nearing December and the annual officers election, we want to remind members that this is your club and input is always welcome. When you want to know more about an item, ie. software applications (apps), hardware or some of the cool gadgets you’ve seen, please don’t hesitate to ask. This is how we arrive at decisions about presentations.

If you would like to become more involved with the club and help with ideas and/or presentations, please consider joining the board of directors. We strive to be as informative as possible with the hopes of entertaining you along the way. Join us to help keep ideas fresh and relevant.

So join us November 6th at Kennedy Hall to see what’s “shakin’ from the Apple tree.”

 

Qmadix: Amazing Products in Paradise

a review by Tom Piper

My life thrives on cool gadgets, and I am constantly striving to find reputable companies with reliable, resourceful and effective devices at reasonable prices. The iOS world with my iPhone 4S, iPod touch (first gen) and iPad 3 have provided me many hours of joy, a few times of grief, and many opportunities for new adventures.

Recently, I have been working with a great company called Qmadix which offers a wide array of products that fit neatly into my gadget world. In this review, I am sharing my impressions and descriptions about a few items from their online store (www.qmadix.com). The picture above shows some of the products which accompanied me to the Secrets Resort in Huatulco, Mexico, and helped enhance my visit there with music and power. 

Docking Station Adapter for Apple iPhone 4S/4 is a great little connector that allows me to dock my iOS devices while using my favorite protective case. The thicker protective cases usually require removal prior to using them with most docking devices. To avoid this inconvenience, this slim 30-pin adapter extends my connector height, providing a convenient docking solution without removing the case. It is lightweight, compact one-piece design that is easy to use, small for transport, and a necessity in my gadget bag. An excellent accessory at only $19.99. 

Protective cases are very important for my iPhone 4S, and I am very impressed with the Metalix Snap-On Covers for Apple iPhone 4S/4 (I tested both the black and gray accent versions). As advertised, these cases are stylish, sophisticated and protective for my device. They are durable, but lightweight, textured polycarbonate border helps to keep a firm grip on your device.  Aluminum alloy accents enhance the look of your device without adding bulk or unwanted weight. The form-fitted design allows access to all buttons, cameras and ports which protects from scratches and bumps, is easy to install, and available in black, gray, blue, purple and red. These are priced at $29.99. 

For truly rugged protection, the Qmadix Xtreme Protective Case integrates innovative design and engineering to provide maximum armor around my iPhone 4S/4. This shielded portable solution offers a dynamic blend of shock absorption material with a revolutionary Duro-Vest Protector to give me the ultimate defense against drops and jars. It includes a double layer, impact-resistant protection with an integrated kickstand, raised silicone edges to protect the screen, and durable ratcheting swivel belt clip on holster. At $34.99, this case is well worth the price.

Portable power is a travel necessity as provided by Boostpac Battery Solutions. For quick backup energy, I use the Qmadix boostpac quick shot Rechargeable Auxiliary Battery Pack. It is conveniently equipped with iPod, iPhone and Micro USB connectors which are compatible with many small portable devices. This nifty box includes LED indicator displays for estimated remaining battery life, smart technology that prevents overcharging, a compact design with collapsible connectors, and a standard USB to micro USB Cable. It uses a 1000 mAh rechargeable lithium-polymer battery with rated input/output of DC 5V, and measures 2" x 1.4" x 1". This can be a lifesaver at $39.99. 

As an alternative for night charging and backup energy, I took with me the Qmadix boostpac eclipse Rechargeable Auxiliary Battery Pack. It is also equipped with iPod/iPhone and Micro USB connectors, a standard USB to micro USB Cable. and is compatible with most devices including iPod, iPhone, BlackBerry, Motorola, HTC, LG, and Samsung. It too is small, smart, and cool blue LED indicators to display estimated remaining charging power. It pops open to become a desktop stand for iPod or iPhone, and charges from any Mac, PC or laptop. This unit boasts a 1500mAh rechargeable lithium-ion battery with rated input/output of DC 5V, and measures 2.7" x 2" x 0.9". The price for this battery pack is $49.99.

 Portable power when I’m driving is also important where I use the Qmadix USB Twin Tablet Charging Kit 4.2 which gives me maximum power on the go when charging my tablet or other mobile device. This hub allows you to simultaneously charge two different devices in your vehicle. It includes a dual-port system with 10W (2.1 amps) for quick mobile charging, compatible with most standard USB charging cables, sonically sealed for seamless appearance, and advanced smart circuitry prevents over-heating or over-charging. It includes a 4 foot long USB charging-data sync cable which is made for all iPod, iPhone and iPad devices (an additional cable can also be used). This is a travel essential for my car and motorcycle which sells for only $39.99.

Keeping the screens clean on my devices is always important (just like the glasses I wear), so I use Qmadix Smudge-Free Dry-Foam Cleaning Kit which is formulated to safely clean my devices from smudges, dirt, grime and makeup. This dry foam formula utilizes smudge-resistant properties that help minimize the transfer of most smudges. It is safe for mobile devices, computer monitors, televisions (Plasma, LCD and LED), E-readers, tablets, keyboards, household electronics and more (it works great on my glasses). The cloths included are anti-microbial micro-fiber cloths treated with DURABAN EPA No. 85798-4, and are machine washable up to 50 times without losing the effectiveness of this anti-microbial treatment. As expected, this cleaning does not leave any residue or streaks, and is anti-Static and dust resistant. The package includes one 3oz can and two cleaning cloths measuring about 10” x 10” (one fluffy and the other satiny smooth). At only $14.99, this is a big improvement over my other cleaners. 

Being somewhat hearing challenged (I wear hearing aids), good sound is vitally important to me. My new companion has become the iharmonix Q-i-7 Extreme-Performance Mobile Earphones. These wonderful earbuds include noise canceling, inline mobile microphone with controller, extreme dynamic performance for superior sound accuracy, double-flanged silicone ear gels (three pairs, S-M-L) improved noise isolation, lightweight alloy micro design with high gloss black finish, gold-plated 3.5mm music/voice audio DC jack (L-shaped for minimum projection), and leather storage pouch. I used these on the airplane with my iPad 3 to watch movies with great success. They were louder and better at noise exclusion than any I’ve previously used (including my over-the-ear Bose noise-canceling headphones). I also used them at the resort hotel for Skype and iChat (now iMessage) discussions with my family back home. These are well worth the $79.99 list price. 

At the resort, I enjoyed wireless music from my iPhone through the marvelous iharmonix Q-i-sound Stereo Bluetooth Speakers by Qmadix which are compact and lightweight delivering true stereo sound for an optimal listening experience. Amazingly, a full duplex microphone is included for two-way wireless cell phone communication. This pair of untethered speakers have rechargeable lithium-polymer batteries, will play up to 8 hours of continuously, has up to 240 hours standby time (10 days), a full charge takes only 3.5 hours, the speakers can be up to 33 feet away from paired device (left and right speakers may be separated up to 15 feet), the AC wall charger includes custom Y-split USB cable, and the carrying case neatly cups the speakers (it would have been nice to also have an attachable case for the charger and cable). These speakers now go with me everywhere with their cool blinking blue lights, and excellent button controls (power, volume, and song forward/reverse). With a price tag of $149.99, they are for the discriminating listener (that’s me, and I fully recommend them). 

This has just been a sampling of the wide array of products available at www.qmadixonline.com. There are additional cases, chargers, cables, bluetooth accessories, and much more for Apple products and many other phone manufacturers. From my review, I am convinced that they have excellent products at reasonable prices. They also have a strong interest in supporting Apple user groups.

Every Apple Ever Made in 30 Seconds

This commemorative video was made by Rob Beschizza to quickly and
comprehensively show ever Apple product made over the last 36 years.

For a Mac computer, download EveryAppleMade, or

For an iPhone or iPad, http://www.redmondpie.com/check-out-every-apple-and-next-product-ever-made-in-this-30-second-clip-video/ (scroll down one page).

Runnur Body Strap: Stylishly Functional Carrier

a review by Jason Piper

The Runnur mini backpack is easily the best essentials travel bag anyone can carry. It has the ability to carry your ID, 4 credit card sized items, two pens, your phone, MP3 player or camera, sunglasses, a regular sized 20oz bottle, and a misc pouch for snacks or headphones. 

The front side of the Runnur contains the first five items (possibly the most expensive and/or frequently accessed items) and are kept right at your mid-torso. The other less-accessed items are behind you, and the bottle pouch sits right on your hip keeping everything balanced. This great “bandoleer” comes in several colors including canvas, black (with red or black stitching), silver, or plum. The unit I picked for testing is canvas.

I picked this up from an exhibitor named Andrew on the show floor of Macworld/iWorld, and from that point forward I never took it off. I immediately packed it with all the goodies I had on me including business cards of vendors, business cards to hand out, a 20oz bottle, my iPhone (with extended battery case), ID, debit card, cash, and receipts. As the vendor originally mentioned, the addition of a bottle in the bottom pouch really helps keep everything in place. The weight was evenly distributed and a leather-like material resting on my shoulder kept the Runnur from sliding, even when moving around, bumping into people, or walking through the show floor of Moscone West.

During the flight back to Missouri, I was concerned about the TSA, and how they would treat the Runnur. They considered it the one "personal item", which means you can still have your backpack, briefcase, or other carryon without issue. I found this to make the flight very painless, and was able to store my backpack and keep the items I wanted within reach. A simple D-Ring at shoulder strap meant I could pick it up and get to all items very easily. The Runnur attracts as fair amount of attention since nothing like this product (except bullet bandoleers) has made it to the general public. People are shocked by how heavily you can pack the Runnur, yet once you put it on, you don't notice it at all.

I can’t say that the Runnur has any technical downsides, Andrew (the designer) and the entire Runnur team have carefully planned out a spectacular product keeping in mind the location, frequency of use, and size of each pocket. The product is well-crafted and definitely seems like it will stand up to the test of use and time.

My Dad also got a silver version which he demonstrated at our user group meeting. Although he probably won’t wear it with a business suit, it will certainly go on trips for convenient and secure transport of personal items he used to put in his many-pocketed Scottevest. It is definitely a step up.

In conclusion, I recommend this product to everyone. Whether you are traveling, going to the zoo, hiking in the back woods, riding a motorcycle, or just tackling everyday life, there is no reason to not have a Runnur over your shoulder keeping you in line. At only $39, it is a practical and reasonable buy. Learn more about this and related products from Red Street Ventures at http://www.gorunnur.com.

 

December appleJAC Annual Meeting Actions

Due to the cold and snow, attendance was diminished, but those members present took several important steps forward at this appleJAC Macintosh Users Group Annual Meeting. The following members were elected as the new 2012 officers to take effect on January 1:

• President - Julie Smith
• Vice President - Alice Kopp
• Secretary - Trish Alexander
• Treasurer - Mark Snell
• Webmaster - Tom Piper
• Librarian - Joe Mertzlufft
• [email protected] (room setup and presenters needs) - Greg Breuer
• [email protected] (refreshments) - Sue Snell
• [email protected] (photos) - Dan Walsh
• [email protected] (recruiting) - Peggy Landwehr
• [email protected] (past president) - George Kopp

In other actions, the membership formally adopted the changes to the appleJAC Bylaws which would remove the Board size restriction, recognize all Apple products as our focus, and other housekeeping improvements. A copy of these changed Bylaw can be downloaded by clicking on this title: AppleJAC Bylaws 120611. 

President's Place

by George Kopp

The year has flown by, and here we are at December again. It amazes me how much has changed in the Apple universe since just a year ago. New computers and iOS devices seem like the normal thing now, but just a year ago, the features we take for granted today seemed like just a dream.  

iOS 5 has made our iPads and iPhones much more like computers and Mac OS 10.7 Lion has even made our Macs much more like our iPads. I foresee this trend continuing. But, as in all aspects of life, some things do come to an end, and those include my term serving as your President.

At our December meeting, we will have our annual business meeting and election of 2012 officers. In addition to this, we will be making some long overdue corrections and modifications to the Bylaws of appleJAC. These changes make our group more like the group we have become. They de=emphasize the Macintosh perspective for an emphasis on the Apple prospective. If you attend meetings, you know this has been the way the group has trended for the last few years. In between presentations on the Mac, we often have presentations on other Apple products, primarily the iOS devices that so many of us use on a daily basis.

I want to be clear. We are still a Macintosh users group, but we are modifying our Bylaws to prepare us for the future with a more broad Apple centric approach. These Bylaws are on the website (immediately following the agenda) for you to review (thanks Tom Piper for his efforts in scribing these changes)

The Nominating Committee has also come up with what looks to be a great slate of officers for next year.  Many of our number are continuing to serve in a leadership capacity, but we also have some new people getting involved and some others that are returning to the Board to assist the group as we move forward. Listed below are the nominations so far; we will accept other nominations from the floor also.

appleJAC Officer Nominations 2012

President - Julie Smith
Vice President - Alice Kopp
Secretary - Trish Alexander
Treasurer - Mark Snell
Webmaster - Tom Piper
Librarian - Joe Mertzlufft
[email protected] (room setup and presenters needs) - Greg Breuer
[email protected] (refreshments) - Sue Snell
[email protected] (photos) - Dan Walsh
[email protected] (recruiting) - Peggy Landwehr
[email protected] (past president) - George Kopp

Last month we moved our meeting location to Kennedy Hall in Immaculate Conception Church at 1206 East McCarty St. in Jefferson City. This new location proved to be a fantastic meeting room for us, and we will be discussing our future meeting locations at the business meeting also.

But don't let the thought of a business meeting scare you away. Tom Piper will be filling us in and responding to inquiries on the features of iOS5, and I will be presenting (and yes, answering all your questions) on iCloud, Apple's new cloud service package available to all Lion users at no cost.

This will be another great meeting to get a few details so you can answer your families questions while sitting around the Christmas tree later in December.

I hope to see you all at the meeting this month.

 

Proposed Amendment to aJMUG Bylaws

The appleJAC Macintosh Users Group Board of Directors is considering a series of changes to its corporate Bylaws which it hopes can be approved at the December 6 Annual Meeting.

These changes are intended to achieve the following:

• Eliminate the emphasis on Macintosh and focus on Apple products ( we have been doing this anyway with the iPhone and iPad of late);
• Eliminate the maximum number of Members of the Board of Directors;
• Emphasize that Board Members may be asked to perform a focused function (ie... refreshments, recruitment....); and
• Miscellaneous housekeeping changes for consistency and clarity.

The last changes were made five years ago. The current Bylaws showing highlighted proposed changes (overstrike to delete, underline to add) are shown on the attached document (Download AppleJAC Bylaws 120611).

 

Taking your Photos Beyond iPhoto

by George Kopp

Do you want to do more with your photos than iPhoto can do? Perhaps make some edits to the photo itself or a portion of the photo? Do I have a deal for you . . . 

iPhoto gives you the ability to make some terrific modifications to your photos. If you need to adjust the color or saturation of a photo, it gives you great tools to be able to deal with these kinds of corrections. But, what if you need to make a change to the image itself? Perhaps you need to fix the color of only a portion of the image. To do this you need additional tools. 

The industry standard for such work is Photoshop which gives a professional photographer the ability make nearly any change to an image that could be dreamed of. But Adobe Photoshop is an expensive program at over $700 and has a steep learning curve. 

Fortunately, Adobe recognizes that the photo enthusiast cannot spend this much money to do minor edits to their photos. Adobe also sells a product called Photoshop Elements. Elements provides much of the ability to make modifications to photos that an amateur photographer might need. In addition, they also provide additional tools that make typical modifications you might want to make even easier. As good as iPhoto is, there are times it is just not quite enough, and Elements gives you those extra tools you need to save that all important shot. 

Some of the great features in Elements include: 

• Cookie cutter tool
• Smart brush tool
• Photomerge modes, like Group Shot, Scene Cleaner, Faces, and Style Match
• Guided Edits and Quick Fix mode
• Automatically divide scanned photos when using a scanner
• Photo creation templates for photo books, greeting cards, calendars, and more
• Easy online sharing options for Facebook, Flickr, etc. 

Adobe sells Photoshop Elements for $99 in a box, or for $79 from the Apple App Store. But, during the holiday season, you might be able to pick up a copy of Photoshop Elements 10 for as little as $49 on sale. 

If you are looking for the next tool to put into your photo-fixing bag of tricks, Elements might just be the one for you. At the lower cost, it is a great way to begin looking at serious photo editing and provide the easy-to-use tools to get those fixes right the first time.

If there was enough interest, appleJAC might be able to offer a class this Winter or early Spring in using Photoshop Elements. If you have such interest, be sure to let one of our officers know.

To find out more about Photoshop Elements 10, check out the features from Adobe’s web site at this link:  http://www.adobe.com/products/photoshop-elements/features.html.

Presentations from "30 Tools in 60 Minutes"

The following are links to the PDF versions of each of the six presentations provided at the November 2 appleJAC MUG meeting (just click, and go there):

• Download Overview Tools

• Download George's Tools

• Download Tom's Tools

• Download Alice's Tools

• Download Dan's Tools

• Download Peggy's Tools

• Download Greg's Tools

 

President's Place (and map)

How to fix battery life problems for iOS 5 and iPhone 4S

by Georgia -- TiPb (The #1 iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch blog)

A great article on how to get control of your iOS devices' battery use . . . its titled to address iOS 5 and iPhone 4S users, yet it applies to earlier systems and devices.

"According to our polls, quite a lot of you say your battery life taken a hit with iOS 5, or that your new iPhone 4S battery life simply isn’t up to snuff. Anytime a new software version is released or a new devices comes to market, it seems battery life becomes an issue. Luckily, that also means we’re getting better at troubleshooting it! Here are some things you can try to make sure your iOS 5 or iPhone 4S battery is lasting as long as it should, and some tweaks you can make to get it to last as long as possible."

For the rest of the story, go to http://www.tipb.com/.

TechTool Protogo: Incredible Utility and Versatility

a review by Tom Piper

In our current world of complex and hefty operating systems like Lion, combined with the huge file capacity and speed of the latest hard drives, it is important to have contemporary computer utilities that can fix things when they malfunction. My toolbox contains several powerful and reliable tools to address prevent or address computer problems.

TechTool Protogo from Micromat is an important part of my Lion compatible defense strategy. Using the TechTool Protogo DVD, which downloads as a dmg file, I easily turned my USB flashdrive into a bootable troubleshooting device for Mac (I could have done the same with a FireWire device like an old iPod, or an SD card).

Now, I can take TechTool Pro To Go with me. With a few clicks add it to a handy device. I can now boot, run diagnostics and perform drive repair on multiple Macs, both Intel and PPC, from a single device. This is the power and flexibility I've always wished for, and now I can just drop it into my pocket, and take it anywhere.

With TechTool Protogo, from the most basic bootable profile to full installs for any Mac (depending on the device size), I can add my own custom profiles. Protogo profiles include TechTool Pro to diagnose hardware issues, repair drives, fix disk permissions, clone volumes, backup my Lion Recovery HD to another Lion device, and a lot more. I can add other utilities, like anti-virus, to complement these profiles and help prevent costly repairs in the future.

System requirements include G4, G5 Macs, 867 MHz or faster; all Intel-based Macs; Mac OS X 10.4.9 or greater, including Mac OS 10.7 (Lion); a USB or FireWire device, such as a flash drive, SD Card, iPod or hard drive; and at least 512 megabytes of RAM.

To give your toolkit more power, greater versatility, and faster performance, go to www.micromat.com/protogo for a new version of Protogo at $129.99 (upgrade is $59.99 for users of TechTool Pro 5 and older, or $39.99 for users of TechTool Pro 6, and earlier versions of Protogo or Protege -- previous users will need their serial numbers for upgrade validation). Are you ready to add one of the best Mac tools on the market?

Parallels 7: Best Windows on a Mac

a review by Tom Piper

So, you are a Switcher, but still need some Windows functionality? You can’t see the sense in maintaining two different computers? You still occasionally need to use Windows? I have the perfect solution for you.
Parallels Desktop for Mac is a terrific product, and the new version 7 has made it even better. I have used Parallels since its early editions, and watched it get stronger and better. It is now the most tested, trusted and talked-about solution for running Windows applications on your Mac.

With Parallels Desktop for Mac, you can seamlessly run both Windows and Mac OS X Lion applications side-by-side with speed, control and confidence. The setup of Parallels Desktop for Mac is easy where in you can bring all your PC programs, documents, photos, music and browser bookmarks to your Mac, then run them all like they were made for your Mac. It’s the best of both worlds on one desktop — without rebooting. Drag and drop files between Windows and Mac applications, launch Windows applications from your Mac dock, and do much more with speed, control and confidence.

It doesn’t matter whether you use an iMac, MacBook Pro or MacBook Air, with Parallels, you simply download the software from our website, enter your key, and you’re up and running. Then you can enjoy any of the Windows programs you need including Microsoft Office 2010, right on your Mac. Experience as much or as little of Windows as you want. Multiple view modes make it possible for you to customize the level of integration between Mac and Windows without compromising performance. 

To get started right away, go to www.parallels.com/products/desktop/ and buy the downloadable version now for only $79.99 (add $6.99 for extended download service), or upgrade your older version for $49.99. In addition, to easily get the latest Windows software to install into Parallels, you can also get the Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium edition for $199.99 (add $14.95 to also get a backup disc).

BUT, that’s not all. A new Parallels Mobile app was recently announced with My Parallels service for iPad, iPhone and iPod touch (www.parallels.com/mobile). This is designed to give users complete anytime/anywhere control of their Mac, including OS X Lion and Windows, plus all of their applications, files and data. Parallels Mobile also works with Parallels Desktop 7 to make Flash video and audio available from Windows on your Mac anywhere via an iPad and Apple mobile devices for the most productive and immersive mobile experience.

The new Parallels Mobile is a premium app that provides Parallels Desktop 7 users a fast, fully immersive mobile experience including complete access to and control of the Mac, Windows and other desktops, plus their applications, programs and files – anything you might need is available no matter where you are. It also provides full audio support and enhanced video streaming. Amazingly, you can also copy, cut and paste between Windows programs and Apple mobile devices for maximum productivity on the go.

Parallels Mobile app is available now in the Apple iTunes App Store. Parallels Mobile has launched with a $4.99 introductory price (its standard retail price is $19.99). Setup and linkage to your Parallels Desktop is simple and straight-forward by going to the Preferences panel on your Mac.

 

Prosoft Drive Genius 3: Superior Mac Utility

a review by Tom Piper

Is your Mac running slower? Is your hard drive filling up and you don't know why? Are you seeing the beach ball more or having other issues with your hard drive? Do you have other problems that are creating a lot of suspicion about the health of your hard drive?

To help set aside your fears and solve potential problems, look at Drive Genius 3, which is probably the best hard drive utility on the Mac platform. It includes DrivePulse, Enhanced Defrag, DriveSlim, and Enhanced Repartition as only a few of the award-winning features of this dynamite program. Even Apple uses it at their Genius Bar as part of the ProCare Yearly Tune Up.

Prosoft continues to develop and evolve Drive Genius by improving and adding new features with the latest release, Drive Genius 3. It 3 is built upon the same award-winning foundation of the original Drive Genius, and now runs as a 64-bit application on Mac OS 10.6 or later with a compatible 64-bit processor. Drive Genius 3 also now offers email notifications to alert you when long-running tasks are completed. 

The new DrivePulse feature helps you monitor the overall health of your drive, alerting you to possible issues before they become major problems. It monitors hardware (via SMART and bad-block testing), volume consistency (via verifying volume structures) and volume fragmentation (via examining volume structures). DrivePulse even automates everything so the user never has to remember to run these tests manually.

The most popular feature in Drive Genius is Defrag. Prosoft has improved Defrag which now provides even better defragmentation by combining all the empty free space together into one contiguous block, which in turn improves the overall speed and performance of the drive. Enhanced repartition has also been improved and gives you the ability to add, delete, hide, expand or shrink OS X partitions so you can organize your drive more efficiently.

DriveSlim is another popular feature which helps you get the most out of your Macintosh by identifying unnecessary files that are clogging and filling up your hard drive. It allows you to reclaim space on your hard drive for files that you really need and use. Drive Genius 3 also features a wide array of other features including directory repair, device/volume cloning, integrity testing, benchmarking, secure erase and several other tools to help maintain your hard drive.

Drive Genius 3 ships on a bootable DVD from Prosoft Engineering, Inc. The regular price is $99.00 at www.prosofteng.com/products (a free demo is available at www.prosofteng.com/downloads). This utility is a fundamental and essential part of my toolbox of important software; it would look good in yours too!

iKlip MINI iPhone Holder: Incredible Utility and Versatility

a review by Tom Piper

In the world of music, the iPhone and iPad are becoming more integrated into performances and recordings. A demand emerged for a convenient and reliable way to mount and display these handheld devices for the performers, and iK has repeatedly responded with just the right holders at the right times.

The iKlip MINI is a universal microphone stand adapter for the iPhone and iPod touch to support your iOS device on stage, in the studio, at school, on the road or in the office. iKlip MINI securely supports your iPhone/iPod touch on any standard mic stand, pole or tripod (with diameters ranging from 0.43” - 0.79”) placed on the floor or tabletop. It will even clamp securely onto the handlebars of many bicycles and motorcycles.

Made of sturdy, durable thermoplastic, iKlip MINI is compatible with every existing iPhone and iPod touch, from the original models to the latest generation devices. It firmly holds the device in place in both horizontal and vertical positions, and its multi-angle adjustable design allows optimal viewing and accessibility with all controls, buttons, connection ports and camera kept free from obstruction. It can also be easily rotated from portrait to landscape position by simply loosing or tightening a knob with no need for additional tools. 

An included detachable bracket supports iK’s popular iRig guitar interface adapter together with iKlip MINI in both horizontal and vertical mounting positions so you can have immediate access to your iOS device multi-touch controls during live performances with the AmpliTube range of apps or any other guitar effects app.iKlip MINI is also the perfect companion to IK’s iRig Mic, the handheld microphone for iOS devices, that allows vocalists and speakers alike to conveniently hold and operate the device at a close distance on the same mic stand with IK’s VocaLive or any other vocal processing app.

There are a variety of apps for iPhone/iPod touch that benefit from the iKlip MINI’s floor or tabletop mic stand support including karaoke, score and tablature, DJ, recording, mixing, video, photography, teleprompting and many more. Everything you use on your iPhone or iPod is now right within your reach. It measures 3.74” x 5.51” x 3.15” and weighs 5.29 oz.

For only $39.99, this rugged, reliable and versatile holder at www.ikmultimedia.com/. All of the other devices and apps mentioned in this review are also available at this website. I can’t say enough good things about the quality of this product, other than to also refer back to my prior review of the rest of the lineup at applejac.typepad.com/.

Mac OS X Lion: Peachpit Learning Series

a review by Tom Piper

Authors: Robin Williams, John Tollett
Published: July 20, 2011, by Peachpit Press
ISBN-10: 0-321-77701-8
Pages: 480
Book Price: $31.99, eBook Price: $11.20, Book + eBook Bundle: $43.19

The latest update of Robin Williams’ bestselling guide will have you up and runnin in no time with Mac OS X Lion. You can learn in your own way, whether it's working through the lessons from start to finish, jumping straight to step-by-step exercises about new features, or looking up just what you need to know at that moment. There are hundreds of exciting tools and hidden gems in your Mac. And with the gentle, yet expert, hand of Robin Williams guiding you along the way, you will learn to take full advantage of all that OS X Lion has to offer. The Table of Contents (outlined below) is very detailed in the original:

• Lesson 1.  Introduction to the Mac OS X Lion Desktop
• Lesson 2.  A Bit Beyond the Basics
• Lesson 3.  Introduction to OS X 
• Lesson 4.  Applications
• Lesson 5.  Mail for Email and Notes
• Lesson 6.  Address Book for Contact Info
• Lesson 7.  Safari for Web Browsing and News
• Lesson 8.  iCal for Organizing Your Life
• Lesson 9.  iChat and FaceTime for Text, Audio, and Video Messaging
• Lesson 10.  iTunes for Your Listening Pleasure
• Lesson 11.  Preview for Viewing Images, PDFs, and more
• Lesson 12.  Miscellaneous Tools on Your Mac
• Lesson 13.  Common Tools in OS X Applications
• Lesson 14.  Working between OS X Applications
• Lesson 15.  Personalize Your Mac to Meet Your Needs
• Lesson 16.  Mission Control to Organize Your Space
• Lesson 17.  Set Up Printing and Scanning
• Lesson 18.  Share One Mac with Multiple Users
• Lesson 19.  Find What You Want, Fast—with Spotlight
• Lesson 20.  Time Machine Backup
• Lesson 21.  Get Connected and Share Files
• Lesson 22.  Basic Troubleshooting
• Lesson 23.  Secure Your Mac and its Files
• Lesson 24.  Upgrade Your Mac and Migrate Your Files
• The End Matters
• Mini-Glossary
• Index

If you are new to Mac OS X, you'll learn to use your Mac with help from a world-renowned teacher. From there, you can move on to customize it to suit the way you work. And if you've been using Mac OS X already, you'll learn to use all of the new features in OS X Lion including Multi-Touch Gestures, Launchpad, Mission Control, the App Store, Mail, and much more. 

The readability of this book is wonderful. The standards set long ago by Robin Williams is still pervasive (remember “The Mac is Not a Typewriter”?). The illustrations are colorful, descriptive and easy to follow. I’m reading it as a ebook in iBooks, and am very pleased.

I highly recommend this publication for anyone, novice or expert. You can buy/download your copy at www.peachpit.com/. This is another fine publication from Peachpit.