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Cygnett Lavish Earth Folio Case and Alumni Canvas Case - iPad Accessory Reviews

2012-05-20T06:00:00.000-05:00

Article first published as Cygnett Lavish Earth Folio Case and Alumni Canvas Case - iPad Accessory Reviews on Blogcritics.

iPad cases are so common today that companies need to find ways to stand out from the competition. Some of these methods include adding a specific function to the case (like making it water resistant), touting a special property of the case (like claiming that it will stay on a porsche), or adding some design tweaks and paying attention to little details. The folks at Cygnett have opted for the latter, and I was able to try out two of their cases on my iPad 2.

Lavish Earth Folio case

Ah, the sweet smell of leather (or faux leather). The Lavish Earth is a handsome well designed folio case that features a leather style slim case and high quality stitching around all edges. A simple flap allows for easy in/out access for the iPad (a must if you want to swap cases or ever use the iPad sans case). All power and volume controls, the single port and the camera are all easily accessible. The case provides three different views in landscape mode, and though typing can be a bit unstable, the angles provide multiple options for viewing. This comes in handy in tight spaces such as on an airplane. Aside from a strong design, the magnets that keep the folio case closed are strong and respond well to the instant wake feature of the iPad.

The Lavish Earth Folio case is available in black, purple and sandstone for $59.99 direct from Cygnett.

Alumni Canvas case

For a brighter option, I switched over to the Alumni case which was given to me in a radiant teal color. Similar to the above case, the Alumni features high quality materials (in this case, a canvas material with a leather spine, similar to a well made book cover) and top notch stitching. Although the canvas case does not have the multi-view stand capabilities, the case does offer a storage pocket for papers, receipts, IDs, and other thin materials. I wouldn't expect to carry a lot in the pocket, but as more people carry their iPad around and may carry only their iPad to meetings, having someplace to store quick memos or small sheets of paper can be quite useful.

The Alumni Canvas case is available in blue, green, pink, and black for $49.99 direct from Cygnett.

Both cases will be given away on my blog this month. Check the right sidebar for details and enter early and often.

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iPad Accessory Review: Sony Speaker Dock RDP-X700IP

2012-05-12T06:00:00.000-05:00

Article first published as iPad Accessory Review: Sony Speaker Dock RDP-X700IP on Blogcritics.

Speaker docks for iPods have become increasingly commonplace, and a wide range of options can be easily found at both your local drugstore and at your favorite electronics retailer. Docks that can accommodate a larger tablet device (i.e. an iPad) are also flooding the market, and I got a chance to test a fine performing one from Sony, the RDP-X700IP. Billed as a "premium" iPad speaker dock, I was pleased to fill my office with sounds from both music and movies, as well as test the AirPlay wireless functionality.

Sony Does It Again With Design
As mentioned in my review of the Sony Vaio S laptop series, I've always been enamored with Sony's level of design. Sound systems are no less coveted, as I recall one of my earliest "boom boxes" to be a cool dual cassette Sony machine with wait for it...detachable speakers (wired, of course). Even in the last decade, when shopping for a CD player for one of my first apartments, I spent a little extra for a design oriented Sony "Hi-Fi" micro component system. Now that the CD player is more commonly found in thrift stores and garage sales, Sony has shifted some of its mobile audio focus to speaker docks, and the minimalist design of the RDP-X700IP figures to add a great looking speaker to your coffee table or bookshelf. A single brushed stainless steel control panel with only a few small buttons and even smaller indicator lights lines the top of a mountain shaped speaker. The device features a small popout tray for your iPod (most models), iPhone, or iPad to rest and connect. The tray is deep enough to accommodate most cases, so this piece was well thought out from the beginning. The rear of the speaker contains just a few input plugs (LAN, power, and auxiliary in) so overall, the design emphasizes the speaker and that's probably how it should be for a speaker dock. The compact form factor can be conveniently carried, moved, and setup in seconds in new locations, though you'll need to be close to an outlet as there's no battery in this baby.

Sounding Off
With so few buttons to press, one would think that the speaker dock would be easy to operate. For the most part this was the case, as I streamed some Pandora tunes in seconds using the Play/Pause button and the volume control. Without a visual notification of volume control however, I wasn't sure where I stood in terms of volume output until I just tested both the minimum and maximum ends of the spectrum. Sound quality was crisp and the dock easily filled the room. The built in subwoofer provided plenty of bass for my tastes, but true audiophiles will likely not be in the market for speaker dock. Airplay setup was considerably more challenging and without the help of the online manual, Honestly, I spent a considerable amount of time before consulting the instructions (typical guy) to no avail. Once both the iPad and the Sony dock were connected on the same network and setting up the dock through the web control panel, I was able to stream audio directly and wirelessly from the iPad to the dock.

Extra, Extras
In addition to providing a robust sound system for your iPad, the Sony RDP-X700IP quickly gave my iPad a boost in power by charging it while in use. Upon first connection, you'll likely be prompted to download an optional iOS application called D-Sappli. Once in the app, I was able to connect the speaker dock to the correct wireless network, thus ensuring that both devices were on the same wavelength. The app included both timer options (alarms, music play, sleep) and clock features (24-hour, date display and seven relatively mundane clock styles). Finally, an included mini-remote control adds more mobility in case you're not taking advantage of the Airplay functionality and would rather leave your iPad sitting pretty on the dock.

The Sony RDP-X700IP is competitively priced in the premium speaker dock market at $399.99. It can be purchased direct from Sony through store.sony.com.

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Laptop Review: Sony Vaio S Series

2012-04-20T06:00:00.000-05:00

Article first published as Laptop Review: Sony Vaio S Series on Blogcritics.

With Intel's creation of the "ultrabook" category, Windows PC makers may have carved out a highly marketable niche for laptops that appeal to a wide array everyday consumers. Who wouldn't want a powerful yet extremely portable computer, one that looks good, is easy to whip out in a coffee shop, and can handle a nearly all-encompassing range of number crunching tasks? We're not talking about your child's netbook, nor the powerhouse machine that weighs down your shoulder bag and breaks into your savings account. Instead, we're looking at a close to sub-$1000 computer that weighs under 4 pounds, and can give you all the processing power that you need. Sony recently released its new Vaio S series, and I got a chance to play around with one of its newest laptops.

Beyond the Specs

I'm not one to repeat long lists of specs, so if you're interested, check out the details on Sony's website. However, there are a few things that do jump out when looking at the S Series. First, the design of the laptop is outstanding, though I'll delve further into Sony's handiwork below. The model that I tested featured an Intel Core i5 processor and 4GB of RAM, which made it plenty fast for daily operations and multitasking applications. The included battery claims to provide enough juice for six hours of usage, yet the form factor remains very thin. Unlike many extended batteries that accompany today's mobile devices and laptops, Sony's optional sheet battery included for my testing adds weight and thickness, but doesn't alter the form factor too noticeably. It does double the expected battery life, and adds a little weight, but my only complaint was the flimsy tab that needed to be removed when connecting the extra battery. The S Series laptop has a ton of ports - 3 USB, HDMI/VGA out, and Ethernet all on the right side, and yes, despite being less than an inch thick, it still has an optical drive for those CD installs and DVD movies.

Sony's Magic Touch

I've always been enamored with Sony products, from my first Walkman, Discman, and Watchman to the more recent, less popular and thus discontinued Vaio UX micro-PC and P-series. As Apple has gotten most of the attention as far as design goes, Sony has quietly maintained a strong eye for aesthetics, and it's got a looker in the S Series laptops. One of the company's core strengths will always be the display. The S Series boasts a beautiful LED backlit display (1600 x 900 for my premium test unit) that provided sharper images than what I was normally accustomed to on other Windows PC units. As mentioned above, the thin and light sleek look is created by the Magnesium alloy chassis with aluminum arm rests and hinges. There's no doubt that the metallic look is in right now, and Sony took note of this when designing this machine. It should be noted that the Platinum Silver option is a premium one, as you can opt for a variety of colors including black, white, blue, pink, and red. Sony also often includes additional unique features (not to be confused with bloatware, which my test machine thankfully did not have much of) with their machines. For example, on my S Series, there was an option to toggle between "stamina" and "speed", as well as a dedicated buttons to support, web browsing, and a few other Vaio related programs.

Recommendations

I like the Sony Vaio S Series for a lot of reasons. Sony's attention to design does not go unnoticed, and the S Series brings a new class of "cool" to the Ultrabook product market. However, the company backs up the pretty looks by making the laptop business friendly by keeping the machine thin and light, full featured, and able to pack in enough juice to stay energized for a transatlantic flight. Keeping the laptop in the Ultrabook category means keeping the price down. The S Series starts at $799 and the premium model that I tested starts at $1029. Not too bad considering a 13-inch Macbook Air will set you back $1249 for the base model. You can shop for the Sony Vaio S Series on the company's website, and they are currently running a promotion where you can get the extended sheet battery (a $149 value) included for free.

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iPad Accessory Review: SealShield SilverBlue Wireless Keyboard with Luxury Case

2012-03-20T16:30:00.000-05:00

Article first published as iPad Accessory Review: SealShield SilverBlue Wireless Keyboard with Luxury Case on Blogcritics.

With the new iPad now in the hands of millions of happy customers, it's a great time to consider how you are going to protect your $500+ investment. The iPad accessory market is booming, and there are thousands of products to choose from with a wide range of prices to match. In terms of shielding your iPad, there are iPad cases, there are iPad cases with a keyboard, and then there is the SealShield SilverBlue Wireless Keyboard with Luxury Case. I had the chance to tote my iPad 2 around in SealShield's newest case for the past weeks, and the product has been growing on me more and more. Find out why below.

L is for Luxury.
Upon first glance and subsequent touch, it becomes clear that the quality of the case is solid. The "top grade" material (however, I found no mention whether the material was leather or not) feels very soft and smooth to the touch. To hold the iPad in place, there is a Velcro flap at the bottom that makes it extra snug and keeps the device secure. At the top though, there is an easily movable flap that allows for easy in/out of the iPad. I found this design particularly useful as there are many times when I don't need a hard keyboard and I'd instead rather take advantage of the iPad's portability and use the tablet sans case. The magnetic on/off functionality of the iPad is retained with the case, and again, the look/feel of the case from the exterior reminds you of a very elegant black portfolio. Having the flap on the left side took some getting used to for this reviewer, but did not take away from the functionality of the device. I would have welcomed a pen or stylus holder.

And K is for Keyboard
Once you perform an increasingly typical setup process involving the bluetooth connection, the SealShield SilverBlue Wireless Keyboard connects easily and quickly to the iPad in future processes. There is a dedicated on/off switch on the keyboard which allows you to save battery life when you know you're not going to be typing away (tip: turn off the Bluetooth on the iPad as well to save power there). Next to the on/off switch is a mini-USB port to connect the included charging cable. Battery life for the keyboard is stated to be 100-day of standby usage, and I have yet to charge the device after about a week of testing. The feel of the keyboard leaves a little to be desired. The keys are soft and a bit small, but I have grown accustomed to these specs, and I have had little trouble getting my emails sent, and still in much less time than with the onscreen keyboard. Another nice feature that is found on the SealShield SilverBlue Wireless Keyboard and rarely on other keyboard cases is the inclusion of backlit keys. Similar to a Macbook Air, you no longer have to hunt and peck in the dark as each of the 76 keys shines when the LED feature is enabled.

And did I mention that it's spillproof?
There's a reason why the keys on the SealShield SilverBlue Wireless Keyboard are a bit mushy and small. The entire keyboard is spillproof. SealShield is known for their infection control products, namely keyboards, mice, and remote controls that are protected from antimicrobials. In environments where multiple people are touching the same devices (schools, hospitals, and libraries), having a layer of protection is invaluable, and I've had successful experiences using their keyboards at our high school. In the case of the iPad Wireless Keyboard case, the small sacrifices in performance one makes on the tactile feel of the keyboard are made up for in the piece of mind that 1) you could spill something on the keyboard and not ruin it, and 2) that keyboard won't have as many living creatures growing on it over the course of time. Overall, SealShield has produced a high quality option in the keyboard case market, and one that is reasonably priced yet offers numerous features that distinguish it from the rest.

The SealShield SilverBlue Wireless Keyboard with Luxury Case is available direct from SealShield for $89.99.

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The New iPad - Worth the Wait, Worth the Purchase?

2012-03-09T16:30:00.000-06:00

Article first published as The New iPad - Worth the Wait, Worth the Purchase? on Blogcritics.

So, you've likely heard by now that there's a new iPad (just don't call it an iPad 3). Well, that wasn't the only announcement from Apple's Wednesday keynote event. And many wouldn't call the iPad reveal too surprising as rumor sites pretty much nailed down the specs on the device weeks in advance. Still, there is much to discuss, including whether you should be buying the updated version and one more thing that might end up having a greater impact on your life, regardless of which new iPad you end up purchasing. Read on to learn more.

The Keynote
As noted above, there were not many surprises when it comes to the details. Perhaps, the biggest one was the new name (or lack thereof). No iPad 3, no iPad HD, no iPad Retina, just the new iPad. The new device will ship (as expected) with a retina display (boasting 3.1 million pixels), an updated processor (custom A5X with quad-core graphics chip), an improved camera (similar to what is found on the iPhone 4S), and in what was a hoped for but not 100% certain rumor, 4G/LTE options. Pricing remains the same for the models ($499/599/699 for the 16GB-64GB WiFi, $629/729/829 for the 16GB-64GB 4G), and the iPad 2 will remain on sale for $399/529 (16GB/3G). Also announced during the event was an updated Apple TV and several software/app updates.

The Analysis
Was the new iPad worth the wait? Perhaps. On a yearly refresh model, the new iPad brings the crazy rich retina display and those that travel for a living will probably be buying in on the speedy 4G access. I can see companies purchasing more 4G enabled iPads for their employees as opposed to a laptop with a mobile broadband plan. Since the form factor is nearly the same (the new iPad is slightly thicker and heavier), the new iPad won't be viewed as a dramatic change as was the iPad 2 when compared to the original. However, one interesting subplot will be how the continued sale of the 2nd generation device at a lower price point will impact Apple's sales. My guess is that it will broaden the device's appeal to even more customers. Since you can now save $100 on an iPad that is still ahead of its competition and nearly as good as the new release, customers interested in bulk purchases (corporations, schools, etc.) can now shave 20% or add that many more devices to the order (Apple's preference).

One more thing (sort of)
Although the details of the new iPad's release were pretty much locked in before, Apple still had a few worthy updates that flew in under the radar. One that is particularly interesting is the release of iPhoto for the iPad. The photo organization/editing program that I rely upon is now available as its own app, and those who have not using iPhoto before are in for a treat. At $4.99, it's a no-brainer purchase, and I look forward to preparing a full review in the upcoming weeks. Do note however, that the app is not supported on the original iPad, and early App Store reviews are quick to point this frustrating fact out.

The new iPad is available for pre-order in the Apple Store. It will deliver and be available in stores on March 16.

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iPod Nano Accessory Review: iWatchz Timepiece Collection

2012-03-09T06:00:00.000-06:00

Article first published as iPod Nano Accessory Review: iWatchz Timepiece Collection on Blogcritics.

iWatchz Timepiece in Dark Brown

"Whoa, what kind of watch are you wearing?"

"Oh, it's actually an iPod."

This is the typical introduction to a conversation that I have been having with many friends, students, and strangers over the past week as I have been trying out the dark brown leather wristband from iWatchz. I must say that I have gotten even more glances, questions, and compliments with this band than any other watch I have worn (granted, I wasn't wrapping Movados around my wrist). Still, it is worth noting that the iPod Nano watch accessory market is alive and active, and iWatchz has created several product lines to appeal to nearly anyone's diverse tastes. Read on for more thoughts about a sample from their Timepiece Collection.

Where are the instructions?
Similar to the HEX Vision that I reviewed recently, the outer packaging was sleek and minimalist, keeping up with high tech trendy items. Other than a nice presentation box, there were no additional papers, instructions, or accessories included. I wouldn't have minded an instruction guide as I had some difficulty configuring the band initially, though a quick trip to the manufacturer's website provided the support I needed and answered all the questions that I had (sure enough in the F.A.Q. section).

iWatchz Timepiece in Black

Easier seen than done
As mentioned above, I had some trouble figuring out 1) how to open the band, 2) how to slide in the iPod Nano, and 3) how to adjust the size of the band. Again, some included instructions would have saved me a few minutes and a trip to the laptop, though I support making the eco-friendly decision of saving the paper. Without the instructions, I was able to unclasp the band and slide in the Nano. Once I learned how the clip was designed, I had no trouble sliding the music player in and out of the wristband. As I've noted before, it's important for me to be able to clip and unclip with ease as I tend to take my Nano out for runs. When placed in the wristband, the Nano is extremely secure, and one can barely notice that it's actually two pieces of hardware. To most, it will appear to be a single watch on one's wrist.

iWatchz Timepiece Collection

Nice watch, man
Following up my first experience wearing an iPod as a watch, I was a bit more confident in how the look would be received by others. The iWatchz Timepiece Collection certainly did not disappoint. Numerous compliments and questions on where I got the watch came from those I knew along with complete strangers. The stitching, color, and clasp mechanism are all solidly constructed, and the clip in system is much different from the other watch band I reviewed, but just as well designed. iWatchz has a wide variety of styles ranging from a new metal band to leather straps to rugged nylon bands. The company provides the perfect range of designs to match those 18 (currently) clock faces and the unlimited number of personalities out there in the world.

The iWatchz Timepiece Collection leather band for iPod Nano Gen 6/7 comes in numerous shades of leather and is available direct from iWatchz for $89.95.

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Defrosting ICE 2012: A Review and Summary

2012-03-07T16:30:00.000-06:00

Another successful ICE Conference, my third in as many years. This year, I opted to share a workshop as opposed to a poster presentation as I have done in the two previous years (thus trading the good old Marsalis room for the Jade room on the second floor). Feel free to check out Screencasting 101 available on my workshops page.

For me, the two general conference days were spent focusing on a few featured speakers as well as topics that I know will be of importance in our future at ETHS. Specifically, I observed sessions focusing on iPad deployment, SMARTBoard lessons, and Digital Storytelling. All of my notes are available via CoverItLive. Following the jump are a few important takeaways overall.

iPad Deployment
District 214 shared their deployment process for iPads over the past two years. They are transitioning towards a 1:1 program over the course of the next few years, and it was interesting to hear about the ups (mostly) and downs of their experience. I liked hearing not just about "cool apps", but how the devices are causing transformation within the classroom. I also believe that the power of having iPads in the classroom are most observable when they are in the hands of the students and not just one device for a single teacher.

SMARTBoard Lessons
As I continue working with several of our teachers on improving SMARTBoard integration into their classrooms, I am always on the lookout for new tips, tricks, and strategies to create transformative Notebook lessons. Three teachers from Francis Parker provided a nice presentation where they shared resources that they were using along with the notebook file of their presentation.

Digital Storytelling
I saw Jon Orech a few times (3 out of the 4 times he presented on Friday if you're keeping score), and picked up a bunch of good nuggets regarding Digital Storytelling. I learned and wholeheartedly agree that Animoto videos are not a good example of storytelling. Jon shared a number of examples from his "Digital Quill" as well as the "Seven Elements of Digital Stories" which will prove to be useful in future projects.

He shared an interesting (and editable) Google Doc that set the tone for a conversation presentation on whether the tech tools that we discuss so often help improve student achievement. Also, during the same presentation, he shared a useful link that highlights several changes in structure that re-examine how technology is used in the classroom to not just integrate but rather redefine the classroom as a place that is ultimately more student centered.

On Friday, I also had the pleasure of experiencing a presentation by Katie Morrow. This was a fast paced, high energy session in the Zanies Comedy Club (natch) where I was inspired to really plug for our teachers to use our Mac Media lab to design student projects and incorporate more media from simple Photo Booth projects to a full iMovie production. Lots of great resources shared (check my notes for more links) including one for a Stop Motion app for the Mac.

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Live at ICE 2012: Set the Table for Student Achievement

2012-03-02T12:33:00.001-06:00

The following is the live feed (or if you're reading this after the event - the archived feed) of a conference session presented at ICE 2012 titled "Set the Table for Student Achievement" The session took place on Friday, March 1, 2012.

&lt;p&gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://www.coveritlive.com/mobile.php/option=com_mobile/task=viewaltcast/altcast_code=d6cf068b6e" &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;Live at ICE 2012: Set the Table for Student Achievement&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&lt;/p&gt;

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Live at ICE 2012: What We've Learned Since Submitting This Proposal

2012-03-02T11:42:00.002-06:00

The following is the live feed (or if you're reading this after the event - the archived feed) of a conference session presented at ICE 2012 titled "What We've Learned Since Submitting This Proposal" The session took place on Friday, March 1, 2012.

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Live at ICE 2012: Students as Producers

2012-03-02T09:41:00.002-06:00

The following is the live feed (or if you're reading this after the event - the archived feed) of a conference session presented at ICE 2012 titled "Students as Producers" The session took place on Friday, March 1, 2012.

&lt;p&gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://www.coveritlive.com/mobile.php/option=com_mobile/task=viewaltcast/altcast_code=e3cf3a0fd5" &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;Students as Producers&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&lt;/p&gt;

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Live at ICE 2012: The "Write Way" to Do Digital Stories

2012-03-01T12:41:00.001-06:00

The following is the live feed (or if you're reading this after the event - the archived feed) of a conference session presented at ICE 2012 titled "The "Write Way" to Do Digital Stories" The session took place on Thursday, March 1, 2012.

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Live at ICE 2012: 1:1 with the iPad – How Technology Enhanced the Classroom Without Sacrificing Budget

2012-03-01T11:21:00.000-06:00

I'm currently at the Illinois Computer Educators Conference (ICE) in St. Charles, Illinois. I'll be taking notes on several sessions throughout the next two days. Similar to my experience at ISTE 2011 and IETC 2011, I'll be using Cover It Live to record these notes.

The following is the live feed (or if you're reading this after the event - the archived feed) of a conference session presented at ICE 2012 titled " 1:1 with the iPad – How Technology Enhanced the Classroom Without Sacrificing Budget." The session took place on Thursday, March 1, 2012.

&lt;p&gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://www.coveritlive.com/mobile.php/option=com_mobile/task=viewaltcast/altcast_code=4cdfeba8a0" &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;Live at ICE 2012: 1:1 with the iPad – How Technology Enhanced the Classroom Without Sacrif&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&lt;/p&gt;

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LIve at ICE 2012: Tips and Tricks for Creating Math Lessons for SMART Boards

2012-03-01T10:45:00.000-06:00

The following is the live feed (or if you're reading this after the event - the archived feed) of a conference session presented at ICE 2012 titled "Tips and Tricks for Creating Math Lessons for SMART Boards" The session took place on Thursday, March 1, 2012.

&lt;p&gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://www.coveritlive.com/mobile.php/option=com_mobile/task=viewaltcast/altcast_code=04d6836cca" &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;Live at ICE 2012: Tips and Tricks for Creating Math Lessons for SMART Boards&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&lt;/p&gt;

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SMART Notebook Lessons - Similar Polygons and Solving Systems of Equations Using Substitution

2012-02-15T16:30:00.000-06:00

I've made it a goal to get more involved with lesson development using SMART Notebook with ETHS teachers that have the interactive whiteboards in their classroom. Several faculty members have taken me up on my offer to help plan, design, and implement Notebook lessons for their curriculum, and I'll be sharing our products here, though you can find all of the links with descriptions on my website or on SMART Exchange.

In Similar Polygons, we wanted to reinforce ratios and setting up proportions from word problems. I used the drag/drop capability to encourage students to see where the numbers were coming from when creating a proportion. We then used some of the measuring tools to discuss what makes two figures similar. Finally, we used drag/drop to label geometric figures and coupled with setting up proportions in traditional problems.

For the lesson on Substitution, we had students drag values into variables, thus putting a hands-on approach to substitution. We gradually built this out to include variables and later expressions. This led to a system of equations that we had drag/drop, inking, and checkpoint reveals. Finally, we explored how to handle equations where one has to solve for one variable before substituting into the second equation.

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iPod Nano Accessory Review: HEX Vision Metal Watch Band

2012-02-11T06:00:00.000-06:00

Article first published as iPod Nano Accessory Review: HEX Vision Metal Watch Band on Blogcritics.

HEX Vision in Gun Metal

What may have started as a fleeting comment during a Steve Jobs keynote has quickly expanded into a new industry. The iPod Nano watch market is filling up with many brands and styles ranging from a simple rubber strap to one with classic metal links. I had the chance to wrap the HEX Vision metal watch band around my wrist for the past few weeks, and I've found that I don't miss my regular watch much. Read on to find out why.

Out of the Box
The product inside may be simple, but HEX Vision made sure the elegant look continued all the way through to the packaging. A white cardboard sleeve surrounds a dark black box, now the typical packaging symbolic of a high tech gadget. Inside, the metal band wrapped around a holder appeared just as you would expect of a fine timepiece. An instruction manual and several extra metal links (which can be added or subtracted by your local jeweler) are also included.

Onto the Wrist
The patented clip in system was extremely easy to use, and with only one configuration and direction to insert, it's nearly fool proof. As a runner, I need to be able to remove the iPod Nano when needed, and I was pleased to find the clip system gives me access within seconds. Conversely, when I need to go to work with my watch, clipping the iPod back in is also easy to accomplish. The Nano feels secure when clipped in, and there's a nice audio clicking feedback mechanism, so there's no chance of the device flying off your wrist. The well designed band also maintains quick access to the dock connector, so charging your watch (nano) is akin to plugging in your phone at the end of the day.

Out in Public
Admittedly, I was skeptical about how the look of the iPod as watch would be received. Having worn the watch for a few weeks now, I've received several compliments (more so than I expected), and zero (at least to my face) comments of "what is that thing on your wrist?". In particular, many students (I work in a large high school) have been in awe and have either inquired how to get one or they confirmed that they already have one. I owe most of this to the solid stainless steel look of the HEX Vision.

Naturally, there are some downsides to using your iPod as a watch. The first and most significant is that to see the time, you have to press a button. This is a radical departure from a typical timepiece. However, since this "watch" can do so much more, it may be a small price to pay. Second, I have to charge my iPod every week or so. The more I use the Nano, the more frequent the charges, and again, this is something you wouldn't have to deal with when using a regular watch. One potential upside is that I may not have to replace a watch battery, at least as long as the iPod's battery is in good shape.

For those technophiles that switch cases or skins often (you know who you are), the multiple clock faces that Apple includes will appeal directly to you. In these past few weeks, I have rotated through several analog faces and my favorite digital screens. With different bands available, the number of combinations is limitless.

The HEX Vision metal band has hooked me into wearing my iPod Nano as a watch. I love the classic metallic design, and the clip-in, clip-out system works extremely well. This makes the combination look and feel as close to a traditional watch as possible. The easy to lose Nano is secure on my wrist, and I know that I can take it off with ease when I go for a run. Now, if only I could see my calendar on it...

The HEX Vision metal watch band for iPod Nano Gen 6/7 comes in Gun Metal and Silver and is available direct from Hex for $69.95.

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Hardware Review: UClear HBC 130 Helmet Communicator

2012-02-03T06:00:00.000-06:00

Article first published as Hardware Review: UClear HBC 130 Helmet Communicator on Blogcritics.

It is generally not wise to listen to music nor talk on your mobile phone while biking, but let's face it, if one has a 3-hour, 50-mile ride, many bikers will don a pair of headphones or a bluetooth headset to allow for streaming media or short phone calls for the long journey. Sound quality can vary dramatically with headset microphones in general. Add the dynamic variable of Mother Nature into the mix and many headsets will be rendered useless when confronted with the elements. UClear has chosen to tackle this problem, and their military proven solution comes in the form of the HBC 130 Helmet Communicator. Read on past the jump to see how the device fared.

Setup

The HBC 130 comes with speaker buds that attach via velcro/adhesive to your helmet instead of fitting snugly in your ears. This allows for hi-fidelity stereo sound without closing out your surroundings. After a brief trip to the power outlet (mine took less than the quoted 2-hour charge time), the small command control unit is readily charged and can be mounted to your helmet as well. The controller can be clipped on and off for easy access. With this setup, the only wires are the ones that can be contained in your helmet, as the controller communicates with your mobile device via a Bluetooth connection.

The setup process continues with pairing. If you have ever connected a bluetooth headset to your mobile device, the process will feel quite similar. Power up the command controller, scan for devices on your mobile, and watch as the HBC 130 pairs within a few seconds. At first, I had to wait for the device to stay connected after a few missed attempts, but I had no trouble subsequently, and I wasn't even prompted for the usual "0000" passcode. I'd also like to note that the included user manual was very well organized and easy to follow, a rarity nowadays with new technology often following the IKEA style of lots of pictures, arrows, and few words.

Calls

Incoming calls were easily handled with the push of a button. I didn't have much luck with the voice activated pick up call feature on my first try, but later attempts did successfully answer the call with a simple "Hello" or "Pick Up". This well designed feature truly makes one's mobile device "hands-free" at least for phone calls. After a click of the answer button on the remote, I also succeeded in making a call using the voice dialer option on my HTC Thunderbolt.

Overall, sound quality was solid as the boomless microphones and the wind and noise cancellation technology proved effective even against variable weather. If you and a friend both pick up an HBC 130, you can pair them together for a helmet communicator intercom system. I could definitely see this coming in handy as many riders often head out in tandem or in small groups. Stay within a 10 meter range, and you have a nice communication solution without bulky phones, long wires, or unreliable walkie talkies.

Music

Many phones (including the iPhone as of iOS 3.0) now support A2DP which means you'll be able to stream your tunes through the headset. Speaker sound was about what I expected. It wasn't like there was a booming stereo right next to my ears, but it was definitely loud enough in a quiet zone and above average while pedaling on the path. The controller was quite responsive as you can play, stop, fast forward, and backtrack simply by pressing one of the three buttons a combination of 1 or 2 times. As a huge Pandora fan, I was pleased to find that the controls still worked for the streaming radio app. And if I needed to, I could check my calendar, email, or even the news, and still be able to control my music.

Finish Line

Bluetooth headsets are nothing new in the world of gadgets and technology. However, a solution for bikers is rare, so UClear may have found a niche that needs filling. With their HBC 130 Helmet Communicator, the company has created a high quality product that provides all of the functionality that one would need from a headset in a lightweight, durable, and full featured product. Long bike rides just became more entertaining as a result.

The UClear HBC 130 Helmet Communicator is available for $229.95 direct from uclearstore.com.

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How to Wirelessly Project Your iPad

2012-01-28T19:18:00.000-06:00

As more educators and other professionals pick up iPads for use in the classroom or office, the need to share one's screen via projection becomes more important. Teachers want to use educational apps to improve instruction while corporate users want to be able to share their screen during presentations. Wired connections have existed since the release of the iPad, but the natural next step is a wireless connection. After the jump, I'll discuss some of the possibilities both wired and unwired to get your iOS screen onto the big one.

Wired
Many are likely familiar with the Apple Digital AV adaptor which allows for direct mirroring of the iPad. Simple and effective, the adaptor connects to the iPad and has an open end for an HDMI cable and this then resembles a typical computer/projector setup. For those unable to connect to their projector through HDMI (without buying another cable) or don't wish to plunk $39 for the adaptor, I've seen teachers and presenters use a document camera and simply place their iPad underneath for projection on screen.

Remote Desktop
Another popular option is using the iPad as a remote desktop. What this allows the user to do is essentially control their computer wirelessly from the iPad. A few benefits of this approach are full computer experience (Mac or PC), a wider range of applications available, and no additional peripherals or special projectors needed (more on that below). Setup typically involves downloading an app on the iPad, install a program on the desktop and connect the two via a WiFi network connection. Some of the more popular programs that specialize in remote desktop include: SplashTop Remote ($2.99) and TeamViewer (Free). I have used both applications with success and each has their own advantages/disadvantages, though I prefer SplashTop for its inclusion of multi-touch gestures. Of course, a remote desktop setup means that you are displaying computer programs and its corresponding content, and not iPad apps, which is not what many of you likely are reading this post for.

Projector Apps
At my school, we have a fresh batch of Epson 905 projectors. With our most recent installation of a school wide wireless network, many of these new projectors are also on the network and thus accessible to those with access. For our faculty and staff, installation of an Epson utility on either Mac or PC (Easy MP Projection) gives them a fast and (so far) reliable connection to the projector via a reserved IP address. Earlier this month, Epson also released an iPad app called iProjection that offers limited options as far as projector connectivity goes. It might be best to state it upfront: the app (as of this post) does not support direct mirroring of the iPad. Instead, there is a cumbersome method of forwarding a document from the cloud through Dropbox or Gmail which then displays on screen through iProjection. Sharing photos is a bit less clunky as the app pulls directly from your library and those that have documents in iCloud will have a slightly easier time projecting. Support and documentation was very limited at launch, so expect to tinker a bit, though for a free app, it's hard to complain. Other projector companies may offer similar apps, though as of this post, I only found one released by Panasonic.

Apple TV
Last but not least, one would expect the most polished product to come from Apple itself, and naturally, the company does not disappoint. Those with an Apple TV (ATV) and iOS 5 are treated to mirroring via AirPlay. The catch is that the two devices must be on the same WiFi network, but this is usually not an issue for most classrooms and certainly not at home. Also, ATV sports an HDMI output, so those without the input on their projectors will need an additional connector cable (HDMI to VGA) and sound will not be transmitted as a result (unless you go with a converter that includes audio). For our school, we currently have restricted access to our staff network with authentication taking place locally on the machine, so we're in the process of exploring more widespread ATV usage. However, through discussion forums, it appears that Apple TVs are being scooped up and deployed in many classrooms with success. Could this be the reason $99 Apple TVs will start flying off the shelves? We shall see.

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SMART Notebook Lesson Upload: Geometry Tic-Tac-Toe Review

2012-01-23T21:40:00.000-06:00

I've made it a goal to get more involved with lesson development using SMART Notebook with ETHS teachers that have the interactive whiteboards in their classroom. Several faculty members have taken me up on my offer to help plan, design, and implement Notebook lessons for their curriculum, and I'll be sharing our products here, though you can download the actual files from my website or on SMART Exchange.

The first lesson collaboration stemmed from a task to create something that would make reviewing for final exams a bit more engaging. I chose a Tic-Tac-Toe review game as the foundation, and the lesson featured nine review problems from an early unit in Geometry. To take advantage of the SMARTBoard's interactive features, I had students drag and drop equation elements to label a figure (an important part for starting math problems) and then to setup an equation (the next critical step). Students then use inking to solve the problem. The lesson was received well in class, and fixes were made for future uses of the activity.

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How to Upgrade Your Cell Phone While Still Under Contract

2012-01-14T07:00:00.000-06:00

Photo: nudev.com

Article first published as How to Get a New Cell Phone While Still Under Contract on Blogcritics.

On one hand, I can't believe it's been almost two years since the 2010 Summer Free Agency where I was contemplating several phones in an event that paralleled that of a certain famous basketball player. On the other hand, I can't believe that I'm still under contract for my beloved Droid X. I haven't even reached the early bird upgrade discount set for March 2012. In the meantime, I see many of my friends and families toting around new devices and more importantly blazing along at faster 4G LTE speeds. I couldn't take it any longer, yet I didn't want to break contract or (gasp!) pay full retail price on a new phone. Read on after the jump to find out how I upgraded my phone and how you can do the same, all without breaking your contract or your piggy bank.
So, the first thing I needed was a phone. I didn't care whether it was new or used, but I didn't want to pay a huge amount for the phone. Therefore, this excluded the certified pre-owned phones that Verizon offered; these devices were running near full retail price (over $400) when purchased without a contract. Having a fair amount of eBay experience, I turned to the online marketplace and found a huge inventory to choose from. I knew that I wanted an upgrade from my existing Droid X, and I wanted to try out the 4G LTE network that Verizon has been heavily advertising. I was also realistic in that I would have to settle for a phone that has been out for a while, and not expect to pay half price for a brand new model like the Samsung Galaxy Nexus.

The Online Marketplace
Although not for the completely inexperienced, purchasing a used phone on eBay has become a lot more common and safe. I narrowed down my search to an HTC Thunderbolt, which as the first Verizon 4G flagship phone, received a great deal of hype and sold quite a few number of phones as a result. The device also came with some battery issues, though this proved to be the perfect combination of supply and demand that enabled me to pick one up for relatively cheap on the secondary market.

Before You Purchase
Some things to consider when purchasing a used phone include the condition, the ESN, and a SIM card. As mentioned above, I didn't care that whether the phone would be in mint condition or not. In fact, you can often tell that a phone is going to be in pretty good shape when it is sold by a single user (as opposed to mass phone resellers) and the description mentions things like "screen protector" or "carrying case". We gadget lovers tend to protect our devices with care. That's not to say that the big sellers are to be avoided. I've found a good deal on a phone for my wife as a result of a mass seller having so many listings that they end up getting fewer bids.

Having a clean equipment serial number or "ESN" is another thing to consider and you'll often see a seller's description include something about having one. There are websites that offer free ESN checks, so if you're a seller, it may help boost confidence among your buyers if you include this in your description. Lastly, when I tried to activate my new phone, I was told that I needed a new 4G SIM card. Although inconvenient, I was pleased to find that Verizon company stores (official ones, not just any mall stand or retail shop) offer a new SIM card for free, while the other stores may charge you a fee.

No Buyer's Remorse Here
I could not be more pleased with the decision to upgrade my phone. The device provided me with an opportunity to experience the 4G LTE network without paying through the roof for a new phone. I get the experience of having a "new" phone with different and in most cases improved features, and I'm still on track for an upgrade in the spring and a new contract later in the year. If you're tired or dissatisfied with your current device, or you've been intrigued by a more recent release, know that you do have options, and that a new and improved phone is never out of the realm of possibility.

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Chanatown Gives 2012

2012-01-12T16:30:00.000-06:00

2012 is here, and the giving continues. I'm pleased to announce that I've dispersed the next round of donations through my semiannual giving campaign. The most recent amount went to the Garfield Park Conservatory. On June 30th, a severe hail storm hit Chicago (one of the loudest I've heard in my three decades of living here). Unfortunately, one of the victims of this massive storm was the Garfield Park Conservatory. That evening, the roofs of the beautiful Fern Room, Show House, Desert House and nine propagation houses were severely damaged. For more information about the storm damage or to donate directly, please visit the website.

As always, thank you for reading my posts and not sending hate mail about the inclusion of ads, affiliated posts, and/or referral links. They are a small, but steady source of revenue that allows me to continue helping those that could use it. In addition to a donation to Garfield Park Conservatory and Eden Place (the other 2011 beneficiary), Chanatown has issued eight loans to Kiva, and after repayment, has now sponsored twenty now in total. With all of that in mind, I'd like to announce the plan for 2012.

January-June 2012 Beneficiary: Rainier Scholars

For one summer, I worked with Rainier Scholars, an outstanding program based in Seattle, Washington that works with promising students of color in securing a solid pathway to a college education. Instead of just giving one-time assistance to students, Rainier Scholars groups students into cohorts and works with getting them placed into selective schools and mentoring them all throughout and beyond the college selection, admission and enrollment process. I had the good fortune to teach Chemistry to the second cohort of students and have kept in touch with several of the administrators. For more information or to donate directly, please visit their website.

In addition, I have chosen to explore a financial micro-lending site called LendingClub.com. There, I invested a portion of my own funds and plan to use the interest (touted as being higher than other more traditional investments) towards future donations. Think of it as an endowment of sorts, though nothing close to the billions that many universities possess. Still, every penny counts, and here's to more of them in 2012.

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The Best Free Apple iPad Apps of 2011

2012-01-03T06:00:00.000-06:00

Article first published as The Best Free iPad Apps of 2011 on Blogcritics.

With hundreds of thousands of apps available for Apple's iPad, there are sure to be plenty of quality ones to be had for free. Nevertheless, despite Apple's closed market and quality control, bad apps are commonplace and especially so among those that are free. Below, I present a list of some quality free apps. Those new to the iPad are encouraged to take a look at last year's lists as well (Best Free Apps of 2010 and Best Paid Apps of 2010), and if you have a few bucks leftover or an iTunes gift card from the holiday season, be sure to pick up something from the Best Paid Apps of 2011 as well.

Business
DocScan HD - I became aware of DocScan at a recent iPad in Education event. This is essentially a handheld scanner application, but for educators, you could use the annotation features to mimic a document camera, thus allowing for the possibility of adding this device's functionality to your iPad for a mere percentage of the price. Note: the full version, Doc Scan HD Pro ($3.99) offers unlimited captures while the free version offers only six, though cloud storage/sync setups exist.

Finance
Chase - The large bank made a big splash by touting the new check scanning features of its application. Several banks are hot on its tail, but Chase has made iPad check deposits a reality, thus eliminating the need to visit the ATM or your local branch, and instead doing so from the comforts of your home. On top of the finance chart, you'll find an app from Bank of America, but do note that check scanning is not currently available. Still, most big bank finance apps offer similar functionality that includes checking account balances, making transfers, and linking to credit cards.

Health and Fitness
Calorie Counter and Diet Tracker - It wouldn't be a new year without a few resolutions to complete. And it wouldn't be a new year's resolution in America unless it included either a gym membership or a pledge to lose weight, right? More people are finding it easier to keep track of their calorie counts by using apps such as Calorie Counter either on their iPhone or iPad. With a huge database and a vibrant display, this app makes it easy and borderline fun to keep track of what you eat and how you exercise.

Lifestyle
Allrecipes - Although not a new app, Allrecipes has received important updates this past year, and the website remains one of my go-to for recipes. The pro version allow you to sync with your recipe box and shopping lists, but the free version offers plenty of on the spot recipe search capabilities including ingredient inclusions and exclusions.

Music
iheartradio for iPad - iheartradio made big splashes this year, unveiling a new streaming web service and hosting famous musical acts at a large summer concert. Naturally, an iPad app was a logical next step, and the conglomerate continues to give Pandora a run for its money. I discussed why I still enjoy Pandora more, but it never hurts to have both apps on your iPad.

Newsstand
The release of iOS 5 brought the newsstand feature which helps users organize their magazine and newspaper subscriptions in one place. Many developers are coming in line and instead of having separate apps for each subscription, users can go to the newsstand shelf instead. A few of my early favorites include The Daily, (reviewed here), Travel and Leisure, and Food and Wine

Productivity
Skitch for iPad - From the makers of Evernote, Skitch is a solid app that allows you to sketch, annotate, edit, and present images with ease. If you ever have the need to add something to an image to then share with someone (think: map, shopping list, family photo, etc.), Skitch provides a powerful opportunity made by developers who have proven themselves with one of the best apps and web experiences available in Evernote.

Gmail for iPad - For those who don't use Apple's native mail application and don't want to use the robust browser version of Google's email program, Gmail for iPad provides a nice alternative. Still missing in the recent version is effective integration into Apple's notification center, but the app remains a step above having to log in via the web browser all the time.

Microsoft OneNote for iPad - Not to be left out, Microsoft released an iPad version of its popular program OneNote. Unfortunately, early reviews have not been too favorable, as the free version is only good for the first 500 notes and an in-app purchase for $14.99 is then required. Still, to be able to sync my OneNote notes on my iPad is convenient, though Microsoft will need to update (must include inking) in a hurry to stay relevant, especially in light of all the robust note-taking apps that are flooding the AppStore.

Social Networking
Facebook - Finally, Facebook got into the game with a native app for its own program. Early reviews were mixed, and users are quick to point out problems in updates. However, now on version 4.1, Facebook seems committed to making a better product on the iPad. Still, users may be better off opting for another Facebook app such as MyPad+ as discussed in my Best Paid iPad Apps List.

Skype for iPad - The release of a native Skype iPad app meant full screen video and use of both the front and reverse cameras on the iPad. In my family, we use Skype regularly as we communicate with out-of-town family and friends. The update could not have been more welcomed by many faithful Skype users with iPads.

Sports
NBA Game Time Courtside - The NBA is back, and so is the opportunity to follow along with each game on the iPad. Instead of focusing on full streaming and with that comes a usually steep price paid by users, NBA Game Time Courtside keeps the attention on the game watching experience on the television and offers an enhanced accompaniment on the iPad. This means live game stats, video highlights, real-time stat charts, and more. It reminds me of MLB Gameday, though users have to plunk down some cash even for some of the more enhanced features of this app, while NBA Courtside remains completely free.

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The Best Paid Apple iPad Apps of 2011

2012-01-01T12:00:00.000-06:00

Article first published as Best Paid iPad Apps of 2011 on Blogcritics.

As we usher in 2012, it's amazing to consider that it's only been two years since the original iPad was released (April 2010), and 2011 marked the introduction of the iPad 2, the lighter, more advanced version of Apple's "magical device". Two years' time has also brought hundreds of thousands of apps to the App Store and with such a large array of programs to choose from (both in terms of quality and price), it's nice to refer to end of the year lists to build one's collection of must-have and yet-to-discover apps. As I did to end 2010, I'm preparing two lists - the best paid apps and the best free apps of the year. Some may be updates while most will be new programs entirely. Hope you find something new and useful for your iPad from 2011.

Entertainment
Although not new in 2011, drawing applications such as Drawing Pad ($1.99) and SketchBook Pro ($4.99) are gaining a lot of traction as a result of third-party iPad styluses flooding the market on the cheap. These "pens", though simple in design can make the difference over a quality drawing done by finger, and as the tips become more refined, the iPad as a note-taking, drawing and organizing one-stop machine becomes more a reality.

Finance
Bills for iPad ($0.99) - Also not new in 2011, but with updates this app has jumped to the top of the Finance category. For the new year, keeping track of one's finances is always a solid resolution. Bills for iPad offers a very rich visual experience for having a bill paying calendar, with different colors representing multiple categories. For a buck, saving time on bill paying and money on late fees may be the best reasons to make this one of your first purchases of the new year.

Games
Electronic Arts ($0.99) - You'll know there's an EA sale going on when you see a bunch of the company's apps climb to the top of the charts. Recently, I purchased Tiger Woods PGA TOUR 12 and have been logging in some hours on SimCity Deluxe. I haven't pulled the trigger on Madden 2012, only because I ended up not playing 2011 very much. Still for $0.99, it's hard to argue against stocking up on these usually high quality games.

Lifestyle
Pimp Your Screen ($0.99) - Although customization features are not nearly as robust as those found on Android devices, Apple iPad users can still have some say in the look and feel of their device (and even more so if they jailbreak). This application offers the usual set of high quality wallpapers, app shelves and other little visual pieces of eye candy, yet PYS stands out by including both a home screen and lockscreen maker allowing you to take even more control of the design process.

Music
GarageBand ($4.99) - With the release of the iPad 2 came one of Apple's most beloved programs, GarageBand to the tablet. Although the app is certainly less featured than its more expensive computer counterpart, GarageBand still brings a powerful and user-friendly experience to the mobile device, and the app provide learning opportunities for students in classrooms or a music-making experience to the casual user without needing access to a full media center.

Productivity
Notability ($0.99) - There are a ton of notetaking apps out there, and I continue to be a major proponent of Evernote for its cross-platform goodness. However, Notability caught my eye for its growing feature set including the rich handwriting features, PDF annotation, and wait for it...linked audio recordings! Similar to a LiveScribe pen, which I love, Notability offers the ability to tap on words to hear what was said at that moment. One of the most feature rich applications available and one that could be a must-have in education.

Social Networking
MyPad+ ($0.99) - Although Facebook finally came out with a native app, the release came with a lukewarm response from reviewers. For a mere buck, iPad users can have a fuller featured Facebook experience in MyPad+ and it proves that developers that got a head start in the Facebook app field will still be able to reap dividends by providing a solid quality product experience.

Google Apps Browser ($2.99) - As Google Apps gains more traction in education and as iPads become more common in the classroom, the need for a smooth working Google Apps experience involves either an improved iPad experience from Google or some ingenuity from developers such as G-Whizz. An improved experience (though understandably not nearly as good as the Docs app on Android) awaits those who purchase this app, though I wouldn't recommend schools purchasing bulk licenses just yet. I'd anticipate that Google will focus on improving their Apps on iPad experience, so 2012 hopefully will bring a native Docs app to Apple's device.

Travel
Azul Media Player ($1.99) - Hidden in the Travel apps section is this helpful tool for downloading videos on the road (hence, the travel categorization). Azul eliminates the need to sync to the computer, as you can download videos for later viewing over the hotel or coffee shop WiFi. The multitude of file formats bump Azul to the top of the list for these types of applications, as all the usual suspects (.mpeg, .m4v, .wmv) are fairly represented. In addition, a streaming (i.e. no download needed) feature is in beta and could make this app a must-have in 2012.

Utilities
Photon Flash Web Browser ($3.99) - Users still want their Flash, and developers are finding ways to get it to them. Using cloud virtualization, Photon allows you to view some Flash content including the popular gaming site, Kongregate. Many swear by this while also complaining that Apple doesn't allow Flash on its native Safari browser. I tend to get by knowing that Flash won't be an option when using an iPad, but if you'd rather not be constricted, Photon or its competitor Skyfire should do the trick.

Looking for some freebies? Check out The Best Free iPad Apps of 2011.

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Gadget Review: Lightspeed iHelicopter

2011-12-31T01:34:00.000-06:00

Article first published as Gadget Review: Lightspeed iHelicopter on Blogcritics.

I'm always intrigued by some of the displays and product demonstrations that I come across in indoor shopping malls. You know, the boomerangs, the magnetic bracelets and those pesky remote controlled helicopters. Well, the iHelicopter from Lightspeed fits right into this category of amazement, and I was privy to try one out this holiday season. The iHelicopter is an actual working machine that can fly throughout your house or possibly outdoors on a calm day all while being controlled from an iPhone, iPad, or Android mobile device.

Prior to takeoff, there are a few steps that need attention, and do note that they take a bit of time, so don't think that your gift recipient will be flying right out of the box. Namely, preparation comes in the form of charging not just the helicopter, but also the signal remote that attaches to your mobile device. I needed to wait a good 30-40 minutes for each before I was flying. Granted, you could probably get by on a shorter charge, but I wanted the full 8+ minutes of fly time that was quoted on a full charge.

As the chopper was charging, I downloaded and installed the "Copter Controller" free app on my Droid X. When both the helicopter and the receiver were fully charged, I turned on the helicopter, attached the receiver to my phone, and opened the app. There were a few buttons on screen, and after experimenting a bit (the included instructions actually were helpful, but I wanted to see if I could figure it out without them), I saw flashing lights on my chopper and a blue light on my receiver. Taking these to be good signs, I went ahead and practiced a few takeoffs and landings as recommended by the manual.

Soon, I was flying a helicopter in my basement, and save for the limited space, the experience was quite enjoyable. The machine proved to be rather durable, as I had multiple crash landings on a hard ceramic tile floor. However, this is certainly not a toy for a toddler, as the blades remain quite fragile and would certainly crumble if handled improperly. Still, if supervised by an adult, a young one could have some fun and a unique experience of flight with the iHelicopter.

Back to the mall, you always wonder whether it's the skill of the salesperson that makes it look so easy to control a remote controlled helicopter. And you wonder whether it would be worth the money to purchase and try later on your own. For about $50 US, the iHelicopter is a reasonably priced device that can offer entertainment for a wide variety of ages. Perhaps paired with another helicopter or two, simulated missions or flight shows could be had in your basement or backyard.

For international customers, an ihelicopter can be purchased from i-helicopters.net. Paramountzone.com also has many other cool gifts for men on their website.

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Photo Accessory Review: Eye-Fi Wireless Photo Storage

2011-12-22T16:30:00.000-06:00

Can you imagine a scenario where you would be able to take photos using your digital camera and when you got home, they were already organized in iPhoto, or even on your mobile device within minutes? Is this some Apple iOS magical update or a new cloud miracle from Google? Nope. Just a simple SD card that happens to have wireless capabilities built-in. What does this mean for all the wires and cables that you currently use to connect your camera to your computer? Keep them where they belong - in a drawer - and get ready to truly go wireless with the Eye-Fi Wireless Card.

How does this work?

The Eye-Fi website already has a solid walk through of the technology, but essentially, it goes something like this. The memory card (currently offered as a SDHC card) has built-in Wi-Fi, so when you are connected to your home wireless network (or add up to 32 networks in total), your photos will seamlessly be transferred to your computer (you'll see them as they are imported). You can also have them automatically uploaded to a sharing site such as Facebook, Picasa, mobileme or flickr. If you're like me and take tons of pictures only to sort, organize, and delete later, you can take advantage of "Selective Share" which allows you to use the lock/protect feature found on your camera to designate the photos you wish to share while backing up the entire shoot.

Does this really work?
I was so excited to start testing this product when I purchased it. I installed the software (Eye-Fi Center) on my Macbook (available for Windows as well), and after a few settings, that part was complete. I then inserted the Eye-Fi card into the SD slot, thus freeing up a memory card that I can use for something else. After snapping a few shots, I was amazed to see the photos being transferred (without any additional prompting) directly to my computer, as well as into an online album on Picasa. It was that easy - no longer do I need to connect the cord from camera to computer, or eject the card and insert into my computer, upload the photos both to the computer and onto the web. All of this is done in one step, and it is done with minimal effort after the original simple setup. One thing to note is that the camera must be powered on in order for the pictures to transfer on your network, but this makes sense, and it is a small price to pay (solution: setup auto shut-off on your camera and call it a day) in exchange for the amount of time and effort you'll save by using the Eye-Fi.

Why haven't I heard of this already?
Honestly, I don't know. I became aware of the Eye-Fi at a recent Discovery Education event, and although I've only had it for a few weeks, I can't imagine going back to a non-Wi-Fi card. For those interested in shooting in RAW, there's the top of the line Pro X2 model which wirelessly transfers RAW photos as well. The Eye-Fi card is a true game changer, and is certainly a "must-have" gadget addition to anyone interested in simplifying the photo archiving process. No more cords, no more duplicate uploads, no more problems.

Eye-Fi sells its cards both online and through bricks and mortar retailers such as Best Buy, Target, Walmart, and Office Depot. They currently range from $49.99 to $99.99.

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Four Weeks of Giveaways - December Week #3: Case-Mate iPhone 4S Case and a 90-Day License for xtranormal (Teacher Edition)

2011-12-19T22:24:00.002-06:00

Another week in December, another lucky winner. This time, with only a few entries to choose from, Janet S. was the lucky one to pick up the iMainGo X speaker system. Congratulations! Your prize gets shipped this week. Thanks to the generosity of a few sponsors, we've got two giveaways this week - a free iPhone customizable case (reviewed recently here) and a 90-day full license for xtranormal's education edition (also reviewed here).

These giveaways are both New and don't require any shipping, so you'll get them as soon as you win. Enter away, and as always, act fast - this giveaway will close in a week, and we'll unveil the final giveaway of 2011.

Hit the jump for the raffle. Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway
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