Compiled by Charles Moore
and edited by
Dan Knight
- 2007.07.13
This Week's Apple and Desktop Mac News
PowerBook, iBook, MacBook, and other portable computing is
covered in The 'Book Review.
All prices are in US dollars unless otherwise noted.
News & Opinion
Reviews
Products
iPod News
Software
News & Opinion
Mac 'Smarter Money' than Windows PCs
software.silicon.com's Andy McCue reports:
"Property asset management company Capital & Regional is
evaluating Linux desktops and Apple Macs as a way to reduce its
dependency on Microsoft.
"The company has around 700 PC users and currently runs Windows
XP Pro and Office XP Pro but its CIO Richard Snooks has hit out at
Microsoft's aggressive licensing policies.
"In an interview with silicon.com, Snooks said: 'We are feeling
the pinch of the aggressive revenue targets of Microsoft. We are
asking ourselves, "are they [Microsoft] fit for our
business?".'"
"Snooks said the browser-based cash tills at Capital &
Regional's leisure outlets - which include the Milton Keynes
Sno!Zone and The Mall shopping centres - could potentially run on
Suse Linux with a Firefox browser, while Apple Macs may be a better
alternative to Windows PCs."
Link: Mac
Desktops Are 'Smarter Money', Says CIO
Apple's First Handheld: the Newton
MessagePad
The Register's James Sherwood reports:
"Forgotten Tech Some say the apple doesn't fall far from the
tree and when you consider the history of the PDA, that statement
holds many truths.
"While the iPhone looks set to take the market by storm, the HTC
S620 and Samsung i600 were good takes on the Blackberry, and the
Palm Treo range has long been tested and trusted. The Treo's roots
lie in Palm's original Pilot, a product category HP's iPaq range
later smartened up.
"But all these gadgets have one thing in common: they base their
capabilities and concept on the godfather of PDAs. Although
sluggish and bulky by today's standards, the device helped set the
tone for PDAs to come.
"It was, of course, Apple's Newton MessagePad. Born in August
1993, the MessagePad was first unveiled at Macworld Boston and was
priced at around $699."
Link: Apple's
First Handheld: the Newton MessagePad
Turn Your Mac Into a Telephone
MacInstruct's Matthew Cone says:
"So, there was this phone thing last week, right? And we weren't
lucky enough to get in on it, even though we really wanted to. The
iPhone is just too friggin' expensive for us. Maybe you're in the
same boat: You can't quite bring yourself to pay more than $2,000
over a two-year period for a cell phone. Or maybe you live outside
of the United States. Or maybe you own an iPhone, but still want to
be able to take and receive phone calls on your Mac.
"That's what this little article is all about. We're about to
introduce you to free (or nearly free) software that can help turn
your Mac into a telephone. Some of these applications allow you to
call other people on their Macs. Other applications allow you to
call people's phones. And some applications add silly and
sophisticated features to your existing cell phone service.
"Note that none of these applications are a substitute for a
real telephone. You cannot make emergency phone calls to 911 with
any of these services, so don't disconnect your land line or cell
phone just yet."
Link: Turn Your Mac Into a
Telephone
Core 2 Duo: Intel's Insecurity Blanket
The Register's Dan Goodin reports:
"A prominent software developer with a reputation for making
waves in coding circles is doing it again - this time warning that
Intel's celebrated Core 2 Duo is vulnerable to security attacks that
target known bugs in the processor.
"Discussion forums on Slashdot and elsewhere were ablaze with
comments responding to the claims made by Theo de Raadt, who is the
founder of OpenBSD. Intel strongly discounted the report, saying
engineers have thoroughly scanned the processor for
vulnerabilities.
"In it he warns that errata contained in the Intel processor is
susceptible to security exploits that put users and enterprises at
serious risk of being compromised. The exposure can exist even in
cases where Intel has issued a fix, de Raadt said, because patches
in the microcode frequently don't get installed on systems
purchased from smaller vendors or that run less popular operating
systems...."
Link: Core 2
Duo: Intel's Insecurity Blanket
Reviews
8-core Mac Pro 'a Potentially Vital
Purchase'
Macworld UK's Mark Hattersley reports:
"Apple hasn't looked back since it switched from PowerPC to
Intel-based processors. Not only is the Mac Pro the fastest desktop
computer on the market, it also sports Apple's famous design and
build quality. More importantly, it's substantially cheaper than
rival Windows-based units.
"In fact, it's hard to see why the Mac Pro isn't flying off the
shelves. But take-up has been relatively slow, with the more
stylish iMac and MacBooks topping the charts, while the Mac Pro
hovers around.
"One reason might be the previous lack of native Adobe software
on the Mac platform. It may be that many users had stuck with the
older G5 units for professional design until the Creative Suite ran
natively on the Mac. Now that Creative Suite 3 is out and native
Intel performance is in place, the Mac Pro has gone from
interesting to look at, to a potentially vital purchase.
"And what better way to celebrate than with this. The new Mac
Pro sports two 'Clovertown' 3.0 GHz Quad-Core Intel Xeon 5300
series processors. The 8-core Mac Pro comes with 8 MB of L2
cache per processor (16 MB total), 667 MHz DDR2 ECC fully buffered
DIMM memory, eight FB-DIMM slots on two memory riser cards (four
slots per card) supporting up to 16 GB of main memory and 1.33 GHz,
64-bit dual independent frontside buses."
Link: Mac Pro
8-core Review
Products
Eco Friendly Bamboo Optical Mouse
This environmentally friendly Bamboo optical mouse combines
technology with nature. The components on the cover are made
entirely of bamboo.
The electronic components are lead free and comply with CE and
EU safety approvals. The unique bamboo colour offers a natural
beauty and style ideal for homes and offices - an alternative to
the usual plastic surround. About Bamboo Bamboo is a grass rather
than wood but is harder than oak. Bamboo fibre is stronger than
wood and steel.
The Bamboo used in these monitors is made from the Gramineae
monocotyledonous plant. This type of plant is hard and panda
friendly and as pandas only feed on soft bamboo there is no harm to
wildlife. Environmentally friendly - Bamboo is one of the world's
fastest growing plants on the planet there are over 1200 species
they can regenerate faster than wood and is typically harvested
within 6 to 12 months. The growth period of bamboo is short - it
will mature in three years.
Bamboo does not require replanting when harvested it has a
mature root system that sends up roots for decades so forests are
not harmed. Bamboo can be reused decomposed yet it will not
generate harmful materials. With a positive impact on our
environment Bamboo truly is one of the world's renewable sources.
Bamboo also helps reduce carbon dioxide gases and mitigates water
pollution due to it's high nitrogen consumption
Manufacturer: playengine
Price in GBP:
- £18.99 Incl. VAT (EU)
- £16.16 Excl. VAT (Outside EU)
Approximate equivalents:
- Euros: €28.04 Incl. VAT (EU)
- US Dollars: $32.51 Excl. VAT (Outside EU)
Link: Eco Friendly
Bamboo Optical Mouse
Belkin Washable Mouse Endures Spills and
Stays Clean
PR: Belkin's Washable Mouse is a water-resistant mouse
that can survive spills and can be hand-washed under the faucet to
stay clean and disinfected.
New Belkin Washable Mouse
endures spills, stays clean, and works on many household surfaces
including upholstery and wood.
Washable Mouse (F5L007-SCROLL) - $29.99
Availability: Late August 2007 with launches in Asia, Europe,
and Australia to follow.
Link: Belkin
NewerTech Announces miniStack v3 'Quad
Interface' 1 TB Storage Solution
PR:
Newer Technology, Inc. (NewerTech) has announced the newest
addition to its award-winning storage solution line, the miniStack
v3 'Quad Interface' powered hub storage solution with up to 1.0 TB
of storage capacity, for Plug n' Play ease of use with any Mac or
PC with an available FireWire 800/400, USB 2.0, or eSATA port.
'Quad Interface' Benefits
With an ergonomically unique rear and side port configuration of
one eSATA, two FireWire 800, one FireWire 400, and three USB 2.0
ports, miniStack v3 lets users connect multiple desktop digital
accessories like scanners, printers, memory card readers, digital
cameras, and iPods simultaneously and clutter-free. Its port
flexibility and compact design also makes miniStack v3 an ideal
portable external hard drive storage solution to move among
multiple systems for future system compatibility.
Fast & Vast for the Modern Digital Lifestyle
miniStack v3 is ideal for data intensive uses like audio/video
editing, digital photography, MP3 libraries and high-speed back up
because it utilizes the latest generation Oxford 924 bridge
chipset, the fastest drive mechanisms available, and an eSATA port
to deliver the fastest single drive data transfer rates possible -
up to 150 Megabytes per second. And with vast storage capacities up
to 1.0 TB, users can store up to 1 million JPEG photos or 350,000
MP3 songs on miniStack v3 depending upon file
settings/preferences.
Award-Winning Origins
A passive radiator heat sink, intelligent thermal monitoring,
Whisper Quiet Operation engineering, and stackable design are just
a few of the features miniStack v3 shares with the NewerTech
miniStack v2, winner of Macworld Magazine "Top Product," MacAddict
Magazine "Editor's Choice," and 123macmini.com "Accessory of the
Year" honors.
Maximum Features in a Mini Footprint
- Up to 1.0 TB (1,000 GB) of bootable disk capacity
- Up to 32 MB of data cache
- Oxford OXUF924DSb bridge chipset with Native Command Queuing
(NCQ) for optimum drive performance.
- 6.5" x 6.5" x 1.5" size
- One eSATA port (rear)
- Two FireWire 800 (1394b) 9 pin ports (rear)
- One FireWire 400 (1394a) 6 pin port (side)
- Three USB 2.0/1.1 'A' ports (2 rear, 1 side)
- External AutoSwitching 100~240v 50/60 Hz 3 amp UL listed power
adapter
- Auto-Power on/off automatically with computer
- Intelligent thermal monitoring for minimal fan power
consumption and Whisper Quiet operation
- 36" FireWire 800 connecting cable, 12" FireWire 800-400
interconnecting cable and 36" USB 2.0/1.1 connecting cable
- Kensington Security Slot
System Requirements
miniStack v3 is compatible with Apple OS 8.6 to 9.2.2, OS X
10.1.x and later (10.2 or later required for FW800 and USB 2.0),
and Windows ME and later operating systems. It includes a $200
retail value utility software bundle comprised of ProSoft
Engineering Data Backup 3, NovaStor NovaBACKUP, and Intech
SpeedTools Utilitiesú
Seven Models Up to 1.0 TB Starting at $169.99
miniStack v3 is available in seven preconfigured 7200 RPM
solutions, from 160 GB to 1.0 TB (1,000 GB), priced starting at
$169.99 MSRP from NewerTech's exclusive distributor, Other World
Computing, as well as through the retail channel. The 0 GB "Add
Your Own Drive" kit is also available for $119.99 MSRP.
Link: miniStack
v3
New Belkin USB Hubs Conveniently Swivel,
Clip-On
PR:
Belkin's new USB Hubs make it more convenient to add USB ports to
your PC or laptop. The Swivel Hub rotates left, right, up, and down
to provide easy port access for plugging in your devices. The
Clip-On Hub attaches to the edge of your desk or to a bundle of
cords to keep your desk clutter-free. Connect stationary items like
your printer and hard drive to the base of the Hub-To-Go. Its
detachable 4-port Hub is ideal for connecting a mouse, MP3 player,
and flash drives. Then, quickly detach it from its base to take on
the road with you.
Swivel Hub (F5U415) - $29.99
- Adds four Hi-Speed USB 2.0 ports
- Features 2-way swivel connector; rotates 180 degrees, out of
the way of adjacent ports
- Allows angle-up positioning for easy-access/top-loading
- Includes power port (power supply also included)
- Clip-On Hub (F5U416) - $29.99
- Adds four Hi-Speed USB 2.0 ports
- Grips to the edge of a surface or a bundle of cables
- Features 2 patented top-loading USB ports for easy access
- Includes power port (power supply also included)
Hub-To-Go
(F5U706) - $49.99
- Adds seven Hi-Speed USB 2.0 ports
- 4 ports detach from the base to act as a travel hub, while the
3-port base/tray stays on your desk
- Features a rotating connector on the detachable 4-port hub to
keep adjacent ports free
- Patented top-loading ports make plugging/unplugging devices
easy
- Base stows flash drives, paper clips, and notepads in storage
tray
- Includes power port (power supply also included)
- Works on table or desks with a thickness not exceeding 1.25
inches.
Availability: Late August 2007 with launches in Asia, Europe,
and Australia to follow.
Link: Belkin
The MiniHitch Multi Mount for Mac mini
PR: Compwave announces it's new and improved second
generation MiniHitch Multi Mount.
Expanding on the original MiniHitch VESA mount introduced in
2006, the newly designed, second generation all-in-one mount now
provides additional options for mounting a Mac Mini under a shelf,
under a desk, or to a wall-stud.
The versatility of this all-in-one mount, means that it can be
mounted to virtually any surface eliminating the need for any other
mounting solutions.
Other new features introduced with this model, is a thicker,
stronger acrylic, new VESA mounting hardware, and a bracing bracket
which provides additional security and prevents easy removal of the
Mac Mini from the Multi Mount.
The MiniHitch
Multi Mount comes complete with all mounting hardware, and is
compatible with a wide variety of LCD computer monitors.
Great New Features
Second generation all-in-one mount extends the versatility of
our original MiniHitch and provides new mounting options and
features.
In addition to our original VESA mounting solution which allows
you to mount your Mac Mini on the back of a computer monitor, you
can now mount your Mac Mini under a shelf, under a desk, to a
wall-stud or virtually any other surface.
That's not all! The MiniHitch Multi Mount can also be used as
stand-alone protective shell for your Mac Mini; looks great upright
or flat on top of a desk!
Reclaim Your Desk Space with Style
Elegant design enhances the beauty of the Mac Mini and won't
detract from your decor.
More Secure
New thicker acrylic shell design with bracing bracket prevents
easy removal of your Mac Mini as well as protects it from
scratches.
Complete Mounting Solution
The MiniHitch
Multi Mount comes complete with all mounting hardware. Special
attention has been given to the VESA mounting hardware to ensure
compatibility with a wide variety of LCD computer monitors.
More Choices
Also available as a Combo which includes the MiniHitch Multi
Mount and the CamHitch which allows you to mount your Mac Mini and
iSight on the back of your monitor.
Applications:
- General space saving in a home or business environment.
- Educational or commercial environment where increased security
is a consideration.
- Home Theater
- "All-in-one" computer using your own display keyboard and mouse
(BYODKM).
- Digital Audio workstation setup (DAW).
- PC/Mac dual system using a KVM switch.
- In-car mounting.
What's New:
- Shelf, desk or wall-stud mounting - New center holes for
mounting under a shelf, under a desk, a wall-stud or virtually any
other surface.
- Includes all mounting hardware - Includes hardware for all 4
mounting options including VESA Mounting, shelf, Desk and wall-stud
mounting.
- New wall mounting plate (not shown) - New acrylic mounting
plate for proper bracing to a wall, shelf or desk.
- Bracing Bracket - New acrylic bracket braces your Mac Mini
within the MiniHitch Multi Mount.
- New thicker 1/4" clear cast acrylic - Provides a stronger more
secure mount.
- Preassembled front and back plates - Preassembled screws and
screw retainers on front and back acrylic plates for easy assembly
and mounting in any orientation.
- New VESA mounting hardware (not shown) - New aluminum VESA
spacers and retainers makes mounting to the back of a monitor even
easier.
The MiniHitch Multi Mount is available immediately for US$47.95
directly from Compwave.
Link: MiniHitch
Multi Mount
Quicky-PCI Triples Power Mac Wireless
Speed
PR: QuickerTek introduces an exciting wireless
upgrade for users of PCI Power Macs who want 802.11n wireless
speed. PCI nQuicky triples wireless range and speed of the previous
802.11g wireless specification. nQuicky PCI eliminates the need to
buy a new Mac just to get 802.11n wireless. nQuicky PCI delivers
802.11n wireless for $149.95 .
The nQuicky PCI offers the latest wireless benefits, yet retains
backward compatibility with previous 802.11 wireless standards -
all IEEE 802.11 b/g/n networks and performs to it's full speed 300
Mbps potential across the 2.4 GHz frequency with 802.11n rated
network hardware. This compatibility includes all Apple AirPort
models - but users get the highest possible speeds when connecting
to an AirPort N Base Station.
nQuicky PCI Compatibility
Any Power Mac with a free PCI slot, including: Power Mac G3;
- Power Mac G4;
- Power Mac G5
System requirements: Mac OS X version 10.4 or higher;
Like most QuickerTek products, the nQuicky PCI is backed with a
one-year warranty on parts and labor.
Link: Quicky-PCI
Navizon Turns Your Mac Into a Navigation
System
PR: Mexens Technology has announced the availability of
Navizon for any WiFi or Bluetooth enabled computer. Navizon is a
positioning system that works by triangulating signals from WiFi
and/or Cellular towers. It is based on a community of users mapping
the wireless landscape in their area and collecting WiFi and Cell
towers locations all around the world. Once the data collected is
shared with the rest of the network, everyone can benefit from
Navizon's virtual GPS, even on devices that do not include a GPS
chip.
"The addition of this new version of Navizon is a very exciting
development" said Cyril Houri, founder and CEO of Mexens
Technology. "Now, anyone with a laptop computer can join the
community and benefit from all the amazing features offered by
Navizon that where until now only available on expensive GPS
equipment. And best of all, this new version is free."
In addition to PCs and Macs, Navizon is also available on a wide
range of mobile platforms such as Windows Mobile, Blackberry,
Symbian and many Java phones. With Navizon you can:
- see your position on a map
- see the whereabouts of your loved ones
- get directions to your next destination
- leave spatial annotations that you can share with the rest of
the community
all of this, whether you have a GPS device or not. If you do
have a GPS device however, Navizon can even earn you money thanks
to its rewards program compensating data contributors.
Mexens Technology was founded in early 2005 by a group of
veterans in geolocation technology. The Navizon network was
launched in September of 2005 and hasn't stopped growing since
then. It is now composed of 60,000 mobile users in more than 60
countries.
Link: Navizon
Sonnet Keyboard Cover for Apple Desktop
Keyboards
PR: Sonnet Technologies announces the Carapace
keyboard cover for Apple desktop keyboards. Like Carapace for
MacBook Pro and MacBook, Carapace for Apple desktop keyboards is
made of high-quality silicone with a proprietary coating. Compared
to traditional sticky silicone skins, the unique Sonnet coating
provides the dual benefits of being antistatic so as not to attract
dust, and having a more natural feel so as to feel comfortable even
during long typing periods. Carapace is custom-molded to fit each
key, yet allows normal typing. Compatible with US and international
keyboards, Carapace for Apple USB and wireless keyboards is easy to
install and remove, withstands heavy typing and prolonged use, and
is simply washable with soap and water.
With gleaming white keys set in clear trays, Apple desktop
keyboards have a bright, modern look. However, they also show dust
and dirt more readily than black keyboards. Carapace keeps Apple
keyboards looking clean and new. With Carapace in place, typing
speed and accuracy are unaffected - its thin, flexible construction
provides a clear view of the keys and dampens the sound of
keystrokes.
Carapace for Apple Keyboard and Apple Wireless Keyboard (part
number KP-AKB) will be available July 5, 2007 for the retail price
of $19.95.
For more information on Carapace for Apple Keyboard and Apple
Wireless Keyboard, visit the Sonnet website.
Link: Sonnet Carapace
Keyboard Cover for Apple Desktop Keyboards
Canon SELPHY CP740 Compact Photo Printer
Fits in the Palm of Your Hand
PR: Scrapbookers and digital photographers have a new
reason to celebrate: Canon USA, Inc. has just announced an addition
to their compact photo printer lineup that prints superb digital
images that can last for years to come.
Designed to make printing images a breeze, the SELPHY CP740
Compact Photo Printer features a two-inch color LCD display, redeye
correction and multiple direct printing options that can enable
anyone to make amazing prints without a computer.
"This printer is ideal for anyone who hopes to produce
long-lasting memories with no hassle," said Yuichi Ishizuka, senior
vice president and general manager, Consumer Imaging Group, Canon
USA "Especially with the popularity of scrapbooks, crafting, and
even personalized postcards printed while on vacation, the SELPHY
CP740 Compact Photo Printer can make great quality prints and
postcards. And, at an estimated selling price just under $1001,
it's an affordable way to make memories that last."
A Personal Photo Lab
The SELPHY CP740 Compact Photo Printer exemplifies Canon's
commitment to making user-friendly products. The two-inch color LCD
screen enables consumers to view their images and select only their
favorite images to print. Say hello to reducing redeye with the
Canon's redeye correction technology. Improving those evil-eyed
shots is a snap as the SELPHY CP740 Compact Photo Printer
automatically detects and helps to correct redeye problems. Photos
of people are therefore enhanced before users hit "print."
In addition to being compact and lightweight, the SELPHY CP740
Compact Photo Printer prints borderless, full-photo lab quality,
4"x6" image in approximately 58 seconds.
A Scrapbooker's Delight
The SELPHY CP740 Compact Photo Printer is perfect for consumers
who prefer the ease of printing their pictures from home, and it is
ideal for scrapbookers who want the flexibility of printing as they
create. With the SELPHY CP740 Compact Photo printer, Canon makes it
easier for crafters to tote their own printer to cropping parties
and scrapbooking events. Consumers can create their scrapbook page
layout or project templates, and then print exactly the images they
need on the spot. It is as simple as inserting a compatible memory
card into the printer, selecting the image to print and letting the
SELPHY CP740 Compact Photo Printer do the rest.
When used with compatible genuine Canon high quality paper and
ink, the SELPHY CP740 Compact Photo Printer produces images that
resist fading for up to 100 years when placed in an archival photo
album, so photos can be enjoyed for generations.
The SELPHY CP740 Compact Photo Printer will be available this
fall for an estimated selling price of $99.99.
Link: Canon
USA
Newest Pocket Drive for Fast 2.5" SATA Drives
PR: The popular ToughTech is now super tiny! We have
taken the ToughTech's rugged and attractive aluminum case and
resized it to fit smaller 2.5" SATA drives - the kind of drive you
would find in many modern laptops. Its Oxford 924 chipset gives you
the fastest speeds for connections to your computer via FireWire
800, FireWire 400 or USB.
The Pocket Drive Case transports the ToughTech mini or ComboGB
with style and durability. The high quality black leatherette case
emblazoned with the WiebeTech logo is perfect for storing and
protecting small 2.5" drive enclosures. And the sturdy Velcro flap
keeps enclosures snugly tucked away until needed. Keep your files
safe and portable with the attractive convenience of a WiebeTech
Pocket Drive Storage Case.
The Pocket Case is included FREE with the purchase of a ComboGB
or ToughTech mini with preinstalled, preformatted notebook
drives.
Small Size
Not much bigger than a pack of playing cards, ToughTech mini
will easily travel with you. ToughTech mini will fit in shirt
pockets and briefcases with ease.
Accepts SATA drives
SATA drives are becoming more popular. They're faster, and they
work with the faster Oxford 924 chipset found in ToughTech mini.
This chipset ensures you the fastest FireWire and USB speeds
available.
Connects to almost any Computer
With a triple interface, you'll be able to hook it to
practically any computer out there. ToughTech mini provides dual
FireWire 800 ports, a single FireWire 400 port and single USB 2.0
port. As a result, you can connect it to any computer running any
recent operating system.
ToughTech XE mini has every connection type ToughTech mini has,
with one addition: A combo eSATA/USB 2.0 port.
To make sure you can connect in any situation, three different
cables and adapters are included: A FireWire 800 cable, a FireWire
400 cable, and a USB 2 cable. The ToughTech mini XE comes with an
extra cable, a FireWire 800 to 400 converter cable.
ToughTech mini is bootable in FireWire mode on any Mac or PC
that supports this feature.
Tough Performance
And it's fast! Configure ToughTech mini with a 7200 RPM drive
and there is no performance difference between ToughTech mini and
our other 7200 RPM drive enclosures.
ToughMount Anti-Shock Protection
ToughMount strips are mounted between the drive and the
enclosure to protect the drive from shock and reduce enclosure
noise.
Plug and play
ToughTech mini works out of the box with no new drivers needed
with any modern operating system including Mac OS 9.1, 9.2, OS X
and Windows 2K, XP, as well as any distribution of Linux that
supports FireWire or USB. If using FireWire, additional FireWire
devices can be daisy-chained through ToughTech mini.
AC Adapter
Most FireWire ports have juice to power ToughTech mini, so most
users prefer to use ToughTech mini without an AC adapter for
maximum portability. For users who prefer an AC adapter or who must
use one with their setup, ToughTech mini comes with an AC
adapter.
You will need an AC adapter if the port you use does not provide
enough power for ToughTech mini. This includes all 4 pin FireWire
hosts (such as Sony iLink which provides no power at all), eSATA
ports (which provide no power) and USB ports.
Features
- Lots of Ports
- TTM: Dual daisy-chainable FireWire 800, 400 and Single FireWire
400 and USB 2.0. ports.
- TTXEM: Dual daisy-chainable FireWire 800 (400 compatible), and
a combination eSATA/USB 2.0 port.
- Power Access LED - Indicate power is on (or off).
- Drive Capacities - Available with 2.5" SATA drives or install
your own.
- Extremely Fast Transfer Rates - With the Oxford 924 chipset,
FireWire 800 outperforms many older desktop FireWire drives when
configured with a 7200 RPM drive.
- Aluminum Construction - Made of tough, durable aluminum.
Provides excellent thermal efficiency.
- ToughMount Anti-Shock Protection - Protects drive from shock
and reduces enclosure noise.
- Small Size - Take it anywhere, fits in your pocket.
- World-compatible AC Adapter (optional) - Accepts 100-240VAC so
you can trot the globe.
- Interface - FireWire 800, 400 and USB 2.0 utilizing latest
Oxford 924 chipset.
Data Speeds
- FireWire 800: 800 Mbps
- FireWire 400: 400 Mbps
- USB 2.0: 480 Mbps
- eSATA: up to 1.5 Mbps
Drive Compatibility
Operating System
- Windows 2K, XP
- Mac OS X
- Linux distribution that support FireWire
Prices start at $109.95
Link: ToughTech
Mini
Plextor Announces 18x DVD±R Burner with USB 2.0 and
FireWire Interfaces
PR: Plextor LLC has announced the immediate availability
of the PX-810UF DVD Super Multi Drive. This external drive combines
the 18x DVD±R and 12x DVD-RAM performance of Plextor's
PX-810 Series drives with the convenience and portability of USB
and FireWire interfaces.
The PX-810UF features a dual interface with Hi-Speed USB and
IEEE 1394 (FireWire), enabling users in a small office or
professional studio to share a single external high-performance
DVD/CD burner among multiple Apple Macintosh and Microsoft
Windows-based PCs. Burst data transfer rates of 480 Mbps (USB 2.0)
or 400 Mbps (FireWire) allow a user to burn a 4.7 GB DVD+R disc in
approximately six minutes.
The new Plextor drive also includes a previously announced
bundle of value-added software applications for common tasks such
as data backup, video editing, and DVD authoring, however Macintosh
software is not included with this model.
"The new PX-810UF delivers a solid value proposition for
customers," said Michael Arbisi, vice president of channel sales
for Plextor. "The combination of performance, share-ability, and
price is outstanding. Everything you need to get started is
included with the PX-810UF, including best-of-breed software
applications that enable the average user to begin authoring DVDs
and editing videos within minutes of removing the drive from its
packaging."
PX-810UF DVD±R/RW Drive
Plextor's PX-810UF external multi-drive delivers fast DVD
recording speeds of 18x DVD±R on single-layer media, 10x
DVD±R on Double-Layer and Dual-Layer (DL) media, and 12x
DVD-RAM. The drive also supports 8x DVD+RW, 6x DVD-RW, 16x max
DVD-ROM, 48x CD-R/ROM, 32x CD-RW, 12x DVD-RAM. DVD±VR is
supported for direct disc recording, while DVD+RW background format
eliminates the need to manually format a DVD+RW disc.
The PX-810UF multi-drive is fully compatible with the new
Windows Vista operating system. The drive features a 2 MB
buffer and Buffer Underrun Proof Technology to prevent buffer
underrun errors and allow multitasking.
Expanded Software Bundle
The PX-810UF includes a new bundle of quality software
applications that enable customers to begin using the drive
immediately, without any additional purchases:
The award-winning Roxio Easy Media Creator 9 software suite for
burning video, music, photos, and data to DVD or CD.
MvDVD Video Authoring for creating DVD discs using video
devices, multimedia clips, and pictures.
VIDEOWAVE Video Editing for creating professional looking videos
by removing unwanted scenes, recording content, and applying
special effects.
CinePlayer DVD-Video Playback for playing all DVD-ROM movies,
DVD, and VCD titles. Uses any resolution or color depth video
display.
BackUp MyPC Archive and Backup software for backing up
individual files or an entire system by transferring data to discs
or a hard drive.
Pricing and Availability
Plextor's PX-810UF drive ships to distributors in North and
South America in July 2007, with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail
Price (MSRP) of $139.00 . All retail packages include one-year full
warranty and unlimited toll-free technical support.
Link: Plextor
Software
Mac Data Recovery Software Released
PR: Recover Data announces the launch of Recover Data for
Mac. To facilitate the Apple Mac user, we have launched Data
Recovery Software for Mac Operating System i.e. Recover Data for
Mac.
Need for Data Recovery Software rapidly arises in recent years
with the growth of use of electronically documents and data for
storing vital and crucial data at a large in a computer System.
This Computer System may get crashed where the important data
resides or data may be lost due to various reasons.
In most of the data loss situations, inadvertent or accidental
file deletions are commonplace events. Data loss creates huge hard
ships to the continuity of any business and inconvenience to the
user. Keeping this in a view, Recover Data started the make of Mac
Data recovery Software and finally releases the Recover Data for
Mac 1.0. No doubt at all, market is flooded with many and abundant
varieties of Data Recovery Software, there is hardly any software
ensuring complete Mac data recovery solution to the lost or deleted
data and proves to be easy application in the hands of end user.
Recover Data for Mac ensures complete data recovery and which can
be used by everyone in few mouse clicks.
Recover Data for Mac recovers deleted, lost files from Apple Mac
Operating System based HFS and HFS+ Volumes. The Software also
recovers lost music files, photos, movies files lost due to a virus
attack, power supply failure, or program bugs. Recover Data for Mac
supports data recovery from all major and popular storage devices
or removable media Secure Digital, iPods, iPod Mini, iPod first
generation and iPod nano, Compact Flash, Memory Stick, ZIP drives,
USB Hard drives, SATA Drives, IDE Drives etc. Recover Data for Mac
is Windows Based Software i.e. The Software runs only on Windows
Operating System. The Software is compatible with Windows 95,
Windows 98, Windows NT, Windows 2000, Windows 2003 Server, and
Windows XP.
With Recover Data for Mac you are just four steps away from your
vital, crucial and confidential data. No need to take your system
anywhere for data recovery in case of data loss. Just install this
software and enjoy the retrieval of lost files and folders.
The Recover Data for Mac is available at
http://www.recoverdatasoftware.com/recover-mac-files for free
evaluation.
The evaluation or Demo version of Recover Data for Mac recovers
files but restricts the File saving option.
Link: Mac Data
Recovery Product
LutherSoft's theWord Reads the Bible to
You from Mac or iPod
Spread theWord. It's free.
LutherSoft have announced the release of their latest software
program, theWord.
theWord is an audio Bible, unlike any other you may have used
before. Instead of simply being a recording of someone reading the
Bible, theWord uses Apple's powerful voice synthesis to "read" the
Bible to you. Using it's built in database, theWord can navigate to
the exact book, chapter, and verse you want to hear.
Because it uses voice syntheses, instead of recordings, it is a
very small download, and does not use excess space on your
computer. A traditional audio bible recording can span many CDs.
This also allows us to offer this software to you for FREE.
A traditional audio recording of the Bible also makes it
difficult to listen to your favorite passages. It is broken up in
to tracks based on the chapter. theWord can index the entire Bible
by verse, so you can pinpoint the passage you want to hear, and
create a "bookmark" of that passage. You can store many bookmarks
in a playlist called "my bookmarks".
If you have no experience with The Bible, theWord includes many
built in playlists with suggested readings, historical highlights,
helpful passages. With the built in daily reading calendar, you can
listen to the entire Bible in one year without any problem. Put it
on your iPod, and you could listen to it during your commute, at
the gym, or whenever.
Playlists
Along the left hand side of the window are the playlists. These
are all built in, and can't be edited, except for "my bookmarks".
These playlists are included here to help you if you have no
experience with the Bible. The playlists include: (list them and
describe)
- Suggested Readings
- Historical Highlights
- Spiritual Standards
- Dynamic Doctrines
- Practical Precepts
- Help in Time of Need
- Practical Teachings
- Where to Find help
- Life's Problems
- Christian Virtues
- Bible Reading Calendar - theWord includes daily bible readings
for both the Old Testament and the New Testament
- My Bookmarks - Your own favorites
- Bookmarks - Each playlist contains bookmarks, which are
specific Bible passages. When you select a playlist, the bookmarks
are displayed in the bookmark table. When you double-click abookmark, it is loaded into the "current passage"
- Current Passage - This displays the current book, chapter, and
verse of the current passage being read
Controls
- Play/Pause - This starts and stops the reading. Reading always
starts from the beginning of a verse
- Forward/Reverse - These move the reading marker forward and
backward by one verse for each time it is clicked
Voices
There are many voices built into the Mac OS. Use this menu to
chose one. Recommended is "vicki", as it is the most natural
voice.
Freeware
Link: LutherSoft
VMware Fusion 1.0 RC1 Build 50460
Released
PR: Run multiple operating systems, including Windows,
Linux, and Solaris, on your Macintosh at the same time as Mac OS X
- without rebooting. Designed from the ground up for the Mac,
VMware Fusion allows you to run Mac and Windows applications
side-by-side - quickly and effortlessly sharing information between
the two operating systems' environments.
For a limited time, VMware Fusion is available for pre-order for
$39.99, a 50% savings over the suggested retail price of $79.99
when VMware Fusion is released for general availability.
Run Windows applications just like Mac applications
Say good-bye to the Windows desktop and use the VMware Fusion
Launch Palette or Spotlight to easily launch your Windows
applications. Switch between all your Windows and Mac applications
using Exposé. Keep your favorite applications in the Dock,
bring forward only the application you care about, and use your
familiar Mac keyboard shortcuts the whole time.
Turn back time on your PC
Capture and save the exact state of your virtual machine with
VMware Fusion's innovative Snapshot feature. If your Windows
virtual machine becomes unresponsive, use the Snapshot feature to
rollback to a known stable state with the click of a button.
Get the most out of your Mac hardware
Take full advantage of 64-bit and multicore processors of your
Mac for maximum flexibility. You can run 64-bit operating systems
such as Windows Vista Ultimate 64-bit Edition or leverage Virtual
SMP to create and run multiprocessor virtual machines.
Our cutting-edge 3D technology even lets you to play select
DirectX 8.1 games on your Mac. Plus, get full read/write support
for CDs and DVDs and complete USB 2.0 support - even for
proprietary video cameras, Bluetooth devices and other Windows-only
peripherals.
Run multiple operating systems on your Mac with ease
Easily use UNIX-based operating systems such as Linux and
Solaris right alongside Windows and Mac OS X, with the ease and
simplicity you've come to expect from your Mac. Only VMware Fusion
makes it possible to copy and paste text between Mac and Linux or
Solaris, or to drag and drop files from the Mac desktop to Linux or
Solaris.
Get started today by downloading a ready-to-use virtual
appliance including many popular Linux distributions from the
VMware Virtual Appliance Marketplace. The Virtual Appliance
Marketplace features over 450 preconfigured virtual machines that
you can download and use with the click of a button.
The VMware Fusion public beta is a free download and is
available now. Additionally, for a limited time, VMware Fusion is
available for pre-order for $39.99, which is a 50% savings over the
suggested retail price of $79.99 when VMware Fusion is released for
general availability. Your Pre-Order will include a final VMware
Fusion license key that will be emailed to you immediately and your
credit card will be charged. You may use this license key to
immediately run the VMware Fusion 1.0 Release Candidate, any future
release candidate builds, and the final VMware Fusion 1.0 released
product.
Link: VMware
Fusion
Desktop Mac
Deals
Low End Mac updates the following price trackers monthly:
For deals on current and discontinued 'Books, see our 13" MacBook and MacBook Pro,
MacBook Air, 13" MacBook Pro, 15" MacBook Pro, 17" MacBook Pro, 12" PowerBook G4, 15" PowerBook G4, 17" PowerBook G4, titanium PowerBook G4,
iBook G4, PowerBook G3, and iBook G3 deals.
We also track iPad,
iPhone, iPod touch, iPod classic, iPod nano, and iPod shuffle deals.
