PC and Tech Tips

MSI Announces New 12.1” Wind U210

2009-10-20T21:02:00.000-05:00

MSI Canada Announces Availability of the New 12.1” Wind U210

The U210 Features the new AMD Athlon Neo MV-40 Processor, 12.1” HD LCD, and a Spacious 250 GB HDD

RICHMOND HILL, ON – October 20, 2009 – MSI Computer, a leading manufacturer of computer hardware products and solutions, is excited to announce the availability of the new Wind U210. Weighing in at just 3.2 pounds, Wind U210 is MSI’s first notebook to feature the AMD Athlon Neo MV-40 1.6 GHz processor. The newest edition to the Wind family of ultraportables, also features a 250 GB hard drive, 2GB of DDR2 memory, and an energy efficient 6-cell battery with a 4+ hour life.

MSI paired the Wind U210’s 12.1” HD (1366x768) 16:9 aspect ratio LCD with ATI Radeon X1250 for crystal clear graphics. The combination delivers a bright widescreen visual experience with exceptional color saturation and crisp imagery.

The Wind U210 also features MSI's EDS (Ergonomic De-stress) keyboard with keys that are 51% larger than those on a standard keyboard. The larger keys greatly improve finger contact range, which reduces stress on fingers and wrists to provide a more comfortable typing experience.

Additionally, MSI included a 1.3M webcam, HDMI port, 3 USB 2.0 ports, VGA port, and a 4x1 card reader in the U210.

The new Wind U210 is available now at CanadaComputers.com, Ncix.com, PCCyber.com and Otvtech.com and starting at $429. MSI offers a 1-year limited warranty with the U210 and extended customer services hours at 1-888-614-6674.

FULL SPECIFICATIONS BELOW

For images or additional information please contact MSI media representative Greg Mondshein at 305-576-1171 x22 or gregmondshein@maxborgesagency.com.

Handy Backup - Automatic Data Backup, Recovery and Synchronization

2009-10-20T08:54:00.002-05:00

Handy Backup - Automatic Data Backup, Recovery and Synchronization

Hardware and software errors, viruses and malware, simple human mistakes – these are just a few reasons why it is important to care about data loss prevention and protect the associated operational processes. While insuring hardware assets seems to be manageable by most people, the question of insuring the most valuable asset, information and information’s integrity is of the same, if not higher, importance?

Handy Backup by Novosoft (downloaded at www.handybackup.net) is award-winning automatic data backup and disaster recovery software. It is very flexible and can perfectly meet any individual requirements:

* Handy Backup has a comprehensible task-based architecture with three types of tasks available: backup, restore and synchronization.
* In addition to “common” file and folder backup, there is a number of presets that facilitate backups of critical data, such as My Documents, Microsoft Outlook, Windows registry, etc.
* Such inevitable for up-to-date backup software features as backup scheduling, backup data compression and encryption are fully supported by Handy Backup.

Unlike most other backup software out there, Handy Backup doesn’t treat your data like faceless chunks of memory. It features a complete, extensible plug-in-based system and a variety of plug-ins designed to back up settings, playlists, tweaks and preferences of your favorite applications that you’ve tweaked to perfection. Users of the utility can also create new plug-ins of their own, which is relatively easy and requires only some basic XML knowledge.

IT-experts can take advantage of extended feature set including disk image backup and database backup. Database backup-related functions are what makes Handy Backup so powerful and unique. There are several advanced plug-ins that can handle backup and restore of most popular DBMS including Microsoft SQL Server, Oracle database, IBM DB2 Data Server, Lotus Domino/Notes environment, and a common Database Backup plug-in that can be used for any ODBC-compatible databases. Also, there is a professional plug-in for backing up Microsoft Exchange Server stores.

Handy Backup Server is a centralized automatic data backup solution for corporate local networks. It enables administrator to install workstation agents on networked workstations and manage the entire network’s backup from a single control point.

Handy Backup is one of the most stable, effective and easy-to-use applications for automatic data backup, recovery and synchronization. Enthusiasts translated Handy Backup for more than 20 languages. With this program, Novosoft LLC has partnered with such companies as Microsoft, IBM and Oracle.

Handy Backup Website: www.handybackup.net

You can download a full-featured 30-days trial by clicking the following link:

Download Handy Backup.

New Sonos Wireless iphone System

2009-10-13T07:56:00.000-05:00

Sonos has a new product that we’re introducing today that we believe will compete directly in the all-in-one audio market (think iPod dock section of a Future Shop).

The Sonos ZonePlayer S5, a wireless music system controlled by an iPhone, is designed to bring an entire world of music (from the Internet and from your computer) to any room of your home. The S5 takes advantage of the multi-functionality of the iPhone (and turns it into a remote control) and provides an unmatched music experience that now starts at $479 a room.

Here’s a quick video walkthrough of the new S5 in action including an introduction video: http://www.sonos.com/S5demo. The full press release regarding the new Sonos S5 appears below.

This is the best time in history to love music. The marriage of devices such as the iPhone and the Sonos ZonePlayer S5 connect consumers to an entire world of music and give them an easy way to control it all from the palm of their hand, in any and every room of their home.

The S5 features include:

• Control and play a world of music, including your iTunes library and all of the popular online streaming service such as Napster. Plus, more than 25,000+ Internet radio stations and podcasts.

• Great room-filling sound

• Full wireless control of your music experience with your iPhone, iPod touch (as well as your PC, Mac or dedicated Sonos Controller 200)

• Best-in-class wireless technology for multi-room music

• Simple setup & expansion – easy to add rooms

If you have any questions or would like additional information, please let me know. We’d love to see you in the coming week to show you this product in person. If you’d like to take a look at this product to see why we believe it represents the future of the iPod dock section at a Best Buy, please let me know.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SONOS ANNOUNCES THE SONOS ZONEPLAYER S5: THE ALL-IN-ONE WIRELESS MUSIC SYSTEM CONTROLLED WITH AN IPHONE

· Wirelessly play music in any or every room of the house for $479 per room

· Enjoy room-filling, high-performance sound with all digital architecture

· Access your iTunes® library, plus thousands of radio stations and millions of songs from the Internet

· Control your music experience with free Sonos Controller for iPhone™ app or any other Sonos Controller

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. – October 13, 2009 – Sonos®, Inc., the leading developer of wireless multi-room music systems for the home, today introduced the Sonos ZonePlayer S5, an all-in-one wireless music system that can be controlled with an iPhone, iPod® touch or any Sonos Controller. The S5 delivers crystal-clear, room-filling sound that rivals much larger, more complicated audio equipment. Plus, the S5 provides instant access to unlimited music with control from the palm of your hand. Now music lovers can find and play any song from an iTunes library, plus, a world of music and radio on the Internet, in any room of the house. The S5 will be available for $479 in late October. To see the S5 in action, please visit: www.sonos.com/S5demo.

“Our customers tell us they listen to twice as much music after bringing Sonos into their homes,” said John MacFarlane, CEO of Sonos. “The new S5 is our latest effort to simplify the Sonos experience so more people can enjoy more music than ever before.”

The S5 features a 5-driver speaker system that packs a big sound – filling an entire room with music. Sonos uniquely designed the S5 with an all-digital sound architecture for precise sound reproduction. The S5 includes two tweeters, two mid-range drivers and a built-in single subwoofer – each individually powered by a dedicated digital amplifier and optimized to deliver room-filling sound with smooth tonal balance and deep bass. All filter settings, bass and treble controls, active equalization, and time-alignment are done in the digital domain through state-of-the-art DSP circuitry, so there’s absolutely no loss of audio quality or energy.

With the Internet-connected S5, you can listen to way more music than you can with a dock that only plays the songs that fit on your iPod. The S5 gives you instant access to a world of music, including 25,000 Internet radio stations, shows and podcasts —all free of charge and pre-loaded on Sonos. Sonos works seamlessly with the most popular music services to provide computer-free access to millions of songs and stations from Napster. The S5 also gives you instant access to any iTunes library stored on any computer or Network Attached storage, such as an Apple Time Capsule. The S5’s analog audio input lets you connect to an external audio source (such as an iPod, CD player, TV, DVD, VCR, or radio) and play music or audio on all ZonePlayers in the system.

When it comes to controlling your S5, you simply reach into your pocket for your iPhone or iPod touch. With the free Sonos Controller for iPhone app (available on the iTunes App Store), you can search for songs and stations, choose the music and control the volume in as many rooms as you like. And because the iPhone is controlling the music, and not the source of it, when a text comes in or you need to make a phone call, the music doesn’t stop. That also means you can keep your iPhone in your pocket, not stuck in a dock. The S5 also includes free Sonos Controller software for your Mac or PC. Or you can let everyone in the house share the control with the dedicated Sonos Controller 200 (sold separately).

As with all Sonos ZonePlayers, the S5 is simple to set up, easy to expand and 100% compatible with all other Sonos products. Just plug in the S5 wherever you want music. One ZonePlayer or Sonos ZoneBridge™ (sold separately) must be connected to your router and all the rest will work wirelessly. When you’re ready to play more music in more rooms, simply add S5s or other ZonePlayers without adding wires. Now you can play the same song in every room with perfect synchronicity or mix it up by playing different songs in different rooms.

The S5 will be available for purchase beginning in late October. To learn more or to locate an authorized Sonos dealer, please visit www.sonos.com or call 877.80.SONOS.

Mophie Unveils Innovative USB Chargers

2009-10-07T15:33:00.000-05:00

Mophie Unveils Lineup of Innovative Chargers for USB Compatible Devices

Unique charging solutions deliver power to Juice Pack, iPhone, and iPod Touch enthusiasts while traveling

Los Angeles, CA – October 7, 2009 – mophie is proud to unveil a new lineup of innovative charging solutions for the iPhone, iPod, and other USB compatible devices. Highlighting the new series is a hybrid Wall & Car International USB Charger ($24.95) that combines a car charger along with a 270º rotating AC adaptor arm that ensures a secure connection at almost any angle. The International Adaptor Travel Kit ($14.95) enables the Wall & Car USB Charger to be used virtually anywhere while traveling abroad and comes with a convenient carrying bag. The Dual USB Wall Charger($19.95) allows users to charge two USB devices at once and its fold up design makes it an ideal solution for traveling with multiple gadgets. Mophie also now has a Low-Profile USB Car Charger ($14.95) with a sleek, minimalist design that seamlessly blends in with your car’s interior.

“Our award winning juice pack series has enabled iPhone and iPod power users to stay charged while on the go” says Ross Howe, Sales and Product Development Director for mophie. “We wanted to offer our customers additional power solutions for any situation to ensure they never go without a charge at home, on the road, or traveling internationally.”

Ultrasone Debuts its Flagship HFI Series Headphone

2009-10-06T13:39:00.001-05:00

Ultrasone Debuts its Flagship HFI Series Headphone with the Open-backed HFI-2400

Wildomar, Calif. - (October 6, 2009) – Ultrasone Inc., distributor for German headphone manufacturer Ultrasone AG, is proud to announce the release of its flagship HFI Series headphone – the HFI-2400. With the debut of the HFI-2400, Ultrasone has designed an eye-catching black and silver, open-backed headphone that satisfies the highest of listening demands.

The HFI-2400s are the flagship headphones in Ultrasone’s famed HFI Series. Distinguished by its airy tone and its modern and elegant design, the HFI-2200s 40mm gold-plated driver provides the finest of three-dimensional sound thanks to Ultrasone’s patented S-Logic™ technology. The HFI-2400 comes outfitted with MU Metal shielding, similar to all other Ultrasone headphones, which reduces the amount of magnetic radiation emitted from standard headphones, up to 98%.

Each HFI-2400 comes with a removable three-meter long, straight cable with 6.3 millimeter gold-plated stereo plug, a velvet carrying bag and the Ultrasone demo CD.

HFI Series
Classical enjoyment at home, listen to your favorite music while on the go, or capitalizing on all of the acoustical facilities of a computer game – just a few examples of the many uses of the HFI Series from Ultrasone. All of the headphones are aligned with the individual needs of the listening community. From the ultra-light and small HFI-15G, designed for mobile applications, to the headphones exclusively designed for home and studio use, to the new open HFI-2400, at Ultrasone, everyone finds their favorite headphone.

Headphone Technology from Ultrasone
Ultrasone incorporates its own developed and patented S-Logic™ technology in all of its headphones. It presents an acutely precise sound that listeners feel as if they are in a live concert. At the same time, the sound pressure is reduced by approximately 3-4 dB providing 40% less burden and strain on the eardrum. The technology is at the heart of every Ultrasone headphone and makes sure that that the music is phonetically and spatially at the highest levels. The headphones integrate the entire pinna, or outer ear, into the hearing process the way nature meant us to hear, so that the sound is considerably more natural than normal headphones or in-ear phones.

Availability and Price
The new HFI-2400 from Ultrasone has a MSRP of $329 and will be available beginning October/November 2009 from all Ultrasone retailers and distributors, in addition to www.ultrasone.com.

X-Slim Series Ultraportable Notebooks

2009-09-16T15:10:00.001-05:00

MSI Announces Canadian Availability of the X340 and the Full Line of X-Slim Series Ultraportable Notebooks

The X340 features a 4-cell battery, low power consumption, a 320GB hard drive and the award-winning sleek, slim and lightweight X-Slim series form factor

RICHMOND HILL, ON – September 16, 2009 – MSI Computer, a leading manufacturer of computer hardware products and solutions, is excited to announce the Canadian availability of the award winning X-Slim line and the 13’’ ultra-slim X340. The X340 is the latest addition to the X-Slim line and is only 20mm wide at its thickest point and weights just 1.3 kgs including the battery. Featuring the latest LED power-saving technology and MSI’s latest graphics improvements, the X340 produces bright imagery at industry standards in eco-friendly power consumption. The X340 is available now in Canada and starts at just $749.99.

The X340 also features a 13-inch widescreen LCD display, providing increased user comfort and a 14% larger screen then traditional 13-inch displays. This ensures a better picture from multiple angles and seamless compatibility with HD videos and other widescreen content. Additionally, the HDMI port transfer audio and video data of the highest quality between the PC and an external monitor or television.

Powered by the latest Intel® Centrino Core™ 2 processor, users can rest assured the X340 has the power to get the job done. Whether you are editing photos, watching a DVD via the optional external DVD Burner, the X340 will perform with impressive speed. X340 also features a spacious 320GB hard drive, a built-in 1.3 megapixel webcam and microphone, and various connectivity ports to ensure widespread functionality. As with the entire X-Slim line, the X340 features award-winning MSI aesthetic appeal, usability and maximum portability.

FULL X340 SPECIFICATIONS:

The X340 notebook is available now at Staples.ca and other fine retailers. MSI is thrilled to offer a 2-year limited warranty and full customer support at 1-888-614-6674.

Additional models in the X-Slim line include the X320 and the soon to be released X400 and X600. The various models feature different specifications and price points to fit a wide range of consumers. For additional product information, please visit http://ca.msi.com.

For images or additional information, please contact MSI Notebook media representative Greg Mondshein at 1-305-576-1171 x22 or gregmondshein@maxborgesagency.com.

About MSI Computer Canada

Based in Richmond Hill, Ontario, MSI Computer Canada offers a wide array of computing products that includes All-in-One PCs, gaming notebooks, ultra portables, consumer and business notebooks, MSI’s award winning line of Wind netbooks and industry leading PC components. Each product line is designed with the latest technology to meet a specific set of needs for the various classifications of consumer and industry customers. To learn more about MSI Canada’s complete offering, please visit http://ca.msi.com.

Widescreen Video Eyewear

2009-09-15T12:30:00.004-05:00

Vuzix Launches Stylish Wrap™ 310 Widescreen Video Eyewear

Newly updated, sunglass-style form factor improves comfort and style while delivering true 16 x 9 widescreen video

Experience the technology first hand at the 2009 ShowStoppers for the Digital Holidays September 16th in New York and the 2009 Tokyo Games Show September 24th – 27th

Rochester, NY – September 15, 2009 – Vuzix Corporation, the leader in video eyewear for the consumer, defense and low vision markets, is thrilled to launch the Wrap 310. The game-changing Wrap 310 challenges the status quo of traditional video viewing devices by looking and feeling like normal sunglasses. The Wrap 310 will feature twin high-resolution video displays, project a 55-inch screen and include removable noise isolating earphones. Powered for up to 6 hours on just 2 AA batteries, the Wrap 310 will accept video from almost any video player, including the iPod and iPhone.

Whether you are an executive business traveler or want an immersive console gaming experience, the Wrap 310 will get the job done in style. With composite video input and optional VGA and component compatibility adapters, the Wrap 310 is the most versatile pair of video eyewear on the market. Additionally, as the first video eyewear designed for upgradeability, the Wrap 310 will feature an expansion port designed to provide the product with near limitless compatibility. In addition to the soon to be available VGA and Component adapters, Vuzix has plans for exciting accessories designed to keep the Wrap 310 on the cutting edge.

Please see a complete list of compatible devices below.

“The Wrap 310 is the first device to merge the look of video eyewear and traditional sunglasses into one,” said Vuzix CEO, Paul Travers. “We are excited to be a part of the mobile video revolution and are thrilled to be globally unveiling the Wrap 310 at Showstoppers for the Digital Holidays and the Tokyo Game Show,” added Travers.

The Wrap 310 also features an improved on-screen user interface, included independent focus adjustments for users with corrective lenses and still features compatibility with all major 3D video formats. Users now have the option to select various lens colors to personalize their Wrap 310.

Compatible Devices Include:

• All iPod/iPhone models
• Portable DVD players
• Mobile phones with video output
• PCs and laptops*
• Televisions
• DVD/Blu-Ray players
• Portable media players

*Requires VGA output

Ultimate Back-to-School Contest

2009-08-18T10:46:00.003-05:00

iSkin has posted the Ultimate Back-to-School contest on their website. Readers can win an awesome prize package worth $2,500. Entries will be accepted until 11:59 PM EST on September 15, 2009.

Entrants must reside in the Continental US or Canada.

The contest is available at this link: www.iskin.com/backtoschool

The grand prize winner will receive:

1 MacBook
1 iPod Touch
1 Mighty Mouse
1 ProTouch Vibes for MacBook
1 ProTouch for Mighty Mouse
1 iSkin touch Vibes for iPod Touch 2G
1 iSkin Soho case for MacBook
Cerulean F1 + TX Bluetooth Set

Also, ten second place winners will each receive an iSkin eGift Card valued at $50. All who enter will get 50 free downloads from emusic.

VIPRE Antivirus and Antispyware

2009-08-14T08:29:00.006-05:00

VIPRE Antivirus and Antispyware

Although Sunbelt Software is not a new company, they do have a new Anti Virus and Anti SpyWare Product that is garnering some great accolades from top media sources.

They have recently announced a free 15 day trial of their VIPRE Antivirus Software and Antispyware product. The free trial can be downloaded here.

The software uses less resources (memory and cpu) than almost other similar products which ultimately makes your pc run faster.

Most of the larger media sources have given it great reviews, including download.com, ZDNet, and PC Magazine.

Downloading the trial requires is simple and only requires an email address. After which you will receive a unique install key.

Split Stick The Double-Sided USB Drive

2009-07-23T12:18:00.000-05:00

Split Stick, Double-Sided USB Drive, Hits quirky's Online Store

collaboratively developed in one week by quirky's community

New York, NY, July 23, 2009 -- Today marks the official release of the Split Stick - a community designed double-sided USB drive. Everyone always tells you to keep your work and your personal life separate. Now you can maintain that divide with your files too.

With the Split Stick, you can enforce the digital divide between office and personal, home and away, yours and hers, g rated and x rated, or whatever else you choose to separate.

Split Stick is the sixth product designed and developed by the quirky community since quirky’s launch on June 2nd. quirky gives everyone the chance to get product ideas out of their heads and onto shelves. Each week quirky’s community collaborates to select and produce one new product idea. This week ends the development of the Split Stick and it is now available for sale at quirky’s online store for $19.99. Accompanying the Split Stick are 4 other quirky developed products: the Sling Back, a universal wire retractor; the Ouch Pouch, a funkier version of the traditional blue and white arm sling; the Pressto, a tofu press, and a kid's Sudoku set; the Sudokid

Designed and developed by the quirky community, Split Stick is two, two-gigabyte retractable USB drives that are built into one slim (four gigabyte) stick. The Split Stick is made of an anodized aluminum body and encased in a protective rubber membrane. The Split Stick comes in a range of colors: orange, blue, pink, red, black, violet, grey, or green. This plastic button allows one to easily navigate between the two different sides of the drive.

DOWNLOAD PRESS KIT

Customers can select how they want to divide their Split Stick by selecting their own text or choosing icons from quirky's icon gallery. These will be laser etched during the ordering process.

quirky engages participants to collaborate in every aspect of product creation - from ideation, design, naming, manufacturing, marketing, right on through to sales. Anyone can participate on quirky.com either by submitting their own product idea for $99, or by voting, rating, and influencing other people’s product ideas. Cooler still, 30¢ of every dollar generated from the sale of a quirky product goes back to these influencers.

Every week users post ideas on quirky to be rated by the quirky community. The community surveys the submissions during the 7-day evaluation period and selects one product to move forward to product development. quirky’s community then begins weighing in on everything from naming to logo selection to packaging through to prototype.

The final product becomes available for pre-sale at the quirky online store (quirky.com/products). Once the product hits its pre-sale threshold, credit cards are charged, and the product goes into production and delivery. At this point, 30¢ of every dollar made from the sale of these products goes back to the community. “Community” in this case covers both the ideator as well as all people who voted, commented, and rated the project idea along the way.

Comprehensive list of Windows XP Keyboard Shortcuts

2009-07-20T15:20:00.003-05:00

Comprehensive list of Windows XP Keyboard Shortcuts

Many functions and tasks can be quickly completed using keyboard shortcuts. These save time and resources because thet eliminate the need for a windows dialog box, or a user interface to load. Once you have mastered the 2 finger shortcuts, you'll see why so many computer experts prefer them.

Start slow, by using 1 or tw, and shortly, you'll be using them more and more.

Here is a of some of the most common Windows XP keyboard shortcuts:

ALT+- (ALT+hyphen) Displays the Multiple Document Interface (MDI) child window's System menu

ALT+ENTER View properties for the selected item

ALT+ESC Cycle through items in the order they were opened

ALT+F4 Close the active item, or quit the active program

ALT+SPACEBAR Display the System menu for the active window

ALT+TAB Switch between open items

ALT+Underlined letter Display the corresponding menu

BACKSPACE View the folder one level up in My Computer or Windows Explorer

CTRL+A Select all

CTRL+B Bold

CTRL+C Copy

CTRL+I Italics

CTRL+O Open an item

CTRL+U Underline

CTRL+V Paste

CTRL+X Cut

CTRL+Z Undo

CTRL+F4 Close the active document

CTRL while dragging Copy selected item

CTRL+SHIFT while dragging Create shortcut to selected iteM

CTRL+RIGHT ARROW Move the insertion point to the beginning of the next word

CTRL+LEFT ARROW Move the insertion point to the beginning of the previous word

CTRL+DOWN ARROW Move the insertion point to the beginning of the next paragraph

CTRL+UP ARROW Move the insertion point to the beginning of the previous paragraph

SHIFT+DELETE Delete selected item permanently without placing the item in the Recycle Bin

ESC Cancel the current task

F1 Displays Help

F2 Rename selected item

F3 Search for a file or folder

F4 Display the Address bar list in My Computer or Windows Explorer

F5 Refresh the active window

F6 Cycle through screen elements in a window or on the desktop

F10 Activate the menu bar in the active program

SHIFT+F10 Display the shortcut menu for the selected item

CTRL+ESC Display the Start menu

SHIFT+CTRL+ESC Launches Task Manager

SHIFT when you insert a CD Prevent the CD from automatically playing

WIN Display or hide the Start menu

WIN+BREAK Display the System Properties dialog box

WIN+D Minimizes all Windows and shows the Desktop

WIN+E Open Windows Explorer

WIN+F Search for a file or folder

WIN+F+CTRL Search for computers

WIN+L Locks the desktop

WIN+M Minimize or restore all windows

WIN+R Open the Run dialog box

WIN+TAB Switch between open items

SmartSwipe Revolutionizes Online Shopping

2009-07-14T14:15:00.001-05:00

SmartSwipe Revolutionizes Online Shopping

World’s first truly secure personal credit card reader keeps PC safe while shopping online

Regina, SK – July 14, 2009 – NetSecure Technologies is proud to offer US consumers the immediate availability of SmartSwipe, a personal credit card reader that keeps your credit card information and identity completely safe when you're shopping online. Plug the SmartSwipe into your computer’s USB port, visit your favorite online stores, and swipe your credit card exactly like you would at a shop. SmartSwipe then scrambles and encrypts the user’s credit card data before it reaches the user’s computer or internet providing instant protection from malicious software attacks.

Traditional online security only protects your sensitive information once it has reached the internet, but not while it's sitting on your computer. Credit card companies, online retailers and security professionals spend millions every year to make the internet a safer place for credit card transactions. Despite these constant advances, credit card data is stolen every day due to the vulnerability of personal computers. Hackers and thieves make a living taking your credit card data and personal information right from the desktop.

“Until now, there hasn’t been an affordable and effective solution for consumers to securely protect their credit card data while shopping online” said Daniel McCann, President of NetSecure Technologies. “Hackers have extremely sophisticated methods of circumventing traditional internet security to steal your personal information right from your computer. SmartSwipe facilitates transactions that leave no trace of credit card data, guaranteeing your information remains secure.”

SmartSwipe features simple plug and play installation and also eliminates the need to manually enter credit card information saving time while you shop online. The SmartSwipe works with nearly every major credit card and credit/debit card combination including Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover. System requirements include Windows XP, Windows Vista, and Internet Explorer 6 or higher. It also features a 90 day no-hassle return policy should you not be 100% satisfied.

The SmartSwipe is available now from SmartSwipe.ca with a MSRP of $99.95. For more information and a brief product demo video, please visit www.smartswipe.ca.

Swiss Price Comparison Site for Mobiles

2009-07-08T10:21:00.006-05:00

Swiss Price Comparison Site for Mobiles

Leading Swiss price engine comparis.ch launches mobile image search
for price comparison of books, music, movies and games.

No longer do you need to type the name of a sought-after product into a search field. For the first time, it is possible to compare the price of an item using a photo. Imagine standing in front of a discounted DVD rack and wondering if the “super-slashed sale price” really is a true bargain. Anyone looking to compare prices has had to either pound the pavement or shop around online. Spontaneous comparisons were not feasible. However, times have changed: one of the leading Swiss websites, price comparison engine comparis.ch, now enables iPhone and Android users to compare prices by taking a picture of the requested item. kooaba's image recognition technology recognizes the product and triggers the comparison at comparis.ch.
The service offered by comparis.ch applies to iPhone and other mobile phones using Google’s operating system Android. This service supports price comparisons of CDs, DVDs, Blu-Rays and as of July books and video games.

At present the software recognizes over 2 million articles, by the end of July it will increase to over 7 million. "Price comparison has never been easier, thanks to the interaction of various innovative technologies. Comparing prices pays off, as the savings can be substantial," explains Mr. Ralph Weber, Product Manager of price engine comparis.ch.

Comparis.ch developed a similar application for the Android operating system. Therefore, Android-phone owners can also benefit from this cutting edge technology for price comparisons of books, CDs, DVDs, Blu-ray and games. In addition to the image search, the application for the Android-phone includes a barcode scanner. This extends the search for price comparisons to EAN-barcodes as well.

Swiss Know-how Comparis.ch bases its image search on technology developed by the Swiss company kooaba.

kooaba is a spin-off of ETH Zürich (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, Zürich). The company specializes in image recognition. "We are especially pleased to put into effect the new image search function provided by our Swiss partner kooaba," commented Weber on the collaboration.

Free-Download
The comparis.ch price comparison application for books, music, movies and video games can be downloaded for free in Apple’s App Store (http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewSoftware?id=299589959&mt=8)

and on the Android market.

Comparis: http://www.comparis.ch/
kooaba: http://www.kooaba.com/

iPod Ghosts and Pigs!

2009-07-06T12:31:00.002-05:00

iPod Ghosts and Pigs!

SPEAKAL: iBoo
iPod® docking station with scary style, a built-in subwoofer and a sub $100 price point

3 speakers, including a 4 inch subwoofer, putting out 15 watts of high quality sound
Onboard touch-sensitive volume & music navigation controls
Remote control & multiple iPod® docking cradles for maximum flexibility
AUX input jack for extensive compatibility with almost any audio source

Available at: Speakal.com, Amazon.com, J & R
Price: $89.99
Website: www.speakal.com

SPEAKAL: iPig
Stylish, compact iPod® dock with unsurpassed sound quality

5 speakers, including a 4 inch subwoofer, putting out 25 watts of powerful sound
Touch-sensitive volume controls providing the latest in consumer electronics technology
360° sound spreading for room filling sound
Remote control & multiple iPod® docking cradles for maximum flexibility
AUX input jack for extensive compatibility with almost any audio source

Available at: Speakal.com, Amazon.com, J & R
Price: $139.99
Website: www.speakal.com

16 x 9 Video Eyewear Hits the Streets!

2009-06-24T14:53:00.003-05:00

Worlds First 16 x 9 Video Eyewear!

Vuzix is pleased to announce the AV310, the world's first true 16 x 9 widescreen video eyewear, is fully compatible with the new iPhone 3Gs and all major 3-D video formats. Users are able to access all their 2-D and 3-D video content stored on the iphone and view it on the AV310's simulated 52-inch big screen.

Equally as important is the AV310's ability to display all major 3-D content formats. As 3-D reemerges as a major video format, consumers are now demanding that their products be compatible with the content formats and hardware of the future.

Check out what the CEO DreamWorks thinks HERE...

Products without 3-D capabilities will soon be obsolete as much of the content coming out of Hollywood will be incompatible.

The AV310 is compact, travels well and can operate for up to 6 hours on one AA battery.

Giveaway of the Day Site Delivers the freebies!

2009-06-23T10:08:00.004-05:00

Giveaway of the Day Site Delivers the freebies!

Many websites try to lure visitors by offering something free. usually in the form of a free report, or an e-book on how to make millions from the comfort of your own home and other nonsense.

Software developers also try to lure you into trying their free software, in hopes of your purchasing it after the trial ends, or to unlock the software's full features. It is not often that one can find something truly free without a hidden catch.

In the case of the website giveaway of the day, it truly delivers as promised. The website itself offers a melting pot of software developers and companies offering their products for a limited time absolutely free. Most of the time, the registration is left open, and a valid serial number is given to registrants. The intention is to promote their products or other similar products for purchase. Fair enough.

The website offers anything and everything one can imagine. There are daily offerings which have limited time windows of opportunity. Open registrations are typically for day or so, however each day there is a new offering.

I love the siote so much, I have added it to the top of the blog. Come by daily and see what is new, or visit the giveaway of the day rss feed directly

System Restore Worm Poses New Threat

2009-06-09T09:20:00.003-05:00

System Restore Worm Poses New Threat

This new worm bypasses the ability of your XP and Vista loaded PC to use the System Restore feature to rollback the computer after infection, or operating system damage.

The worm is called W32.SafeSys.Worm and attacks a particular program called Deep Freeze.
Deepfreeze is a computer protection utility that prevents malicious code from writing to the hard drive itself. Any malicious code is written to a memory buffer which then gets erased upon reboot. The original hard drive data is untouched and can simply be reloaded during bootup.

The W32.SafeSys.Worm bypasses the Deep Freeze method and writes data to the biffer, which then enables irect writing to the hard drive sectors. Thus allowing full access to the PC's hard drive.

There are over 140 variants of the W32.SafeSys.Worm thus far. The best protection at this point is to Download the latest BKAV.

A Quirky social website for inventors!

2009-06-04T11:05:00.004-05:00

A Quirky social website for inventors!

The team behind mophie and kluster launches quirky - a social product development company.

We've all had our own a-ha moment...our own Pet Rock...our own Snuggie. But most of us don't know how to go from genius napkin doodle to actually making that idea happen. That's where quirky comes in. quirky gives everyone the chance to get product ideas out of their heads and onto shelves.

Ben Kaufman, the 22-year-old entrepreneur who founded mophie and kluster, took his faithful development team, threw in industrial designers and engineers, shook them all up, and out came quirky. Having launched his first successful product the day he graduated high school, Ben knows only too well how to go from sketch to store.

quirky engages participants to collaborate in every aspect of product creation - from ideation, design, naming, manufacturing, marketing, right on through to sales. Anyone can participate on quirky.com either by submitting their own product idea for $99, or by voting, rating, and influencing other people's product ideas. Cooler still, 30¢ of every dollar generated from the sale of a quirky product goes back to these influencers.

"quirky is for all of us with great ideas and talent who find ourselves sitting at home, at work, unemployed, over happy hour…wondering how to take that killer idea and really make it happen," says Ben. "These are those ideas that make you think, wouldn't it be cool if... or if only that had a... Most of us just don't have the time, money or know-how to do it on our own, and that's why we made quirky."

Every week users post ideas on quirky to be rated by the quirky community. The community surveys the scene during the 7 day evaluation period, finally choosing one product from the pool of submitted ideas to move forward through the process. quirky's community then contributes to all aspects of development, weighing in on everything from naming to logo selection to packaging.

The final product is pre-sold at the quirky online store (quirky.com/products). Once the product hits its pre-sales threshold, credit cards are charged, and the product graduates to production and delivery. As we said, the key here is that 30¢ of every dollar made from the sale of these products goes back to the community. "Community" in this case covers both the ideator as well as all people who voted, commented, and rated the project idea along the way.

Today marks the site's official launch - and the completion of the first community developed product. In the days leading up to launch, hundreds of quirky's friends and family came together to create the first product - the Sling Back. The Sling Back is a universal wire retractor that holds any type of wire up to 1/8" in diameter. That means it will suck up over 3 feet of cable in one fell swoop...whatever you have lying around...whether that be headphone cords, small power cables, USB cords, firewire cables, or printer cords. Stay tuned for quirky's second product to hit the store just one week from now.

The World’s Best Sounding Portable Headphones

2009-06-01T12:57:00.000-05:00

Ultrasone Unleashes Zino - The World’s Best Sounding & Safest Portable Headphones

Available exclusively at Amazon.com in June, new supra aural headphones deliver outstanding acoustic performance for mobile listening applications

Wildomar, Calif. - (June 1, 2009) – Ultrasone Inc., distributor for German headphone manufacturer Ultrasone AG, introduces a new portable headphone called Zino. Designed for use with iPods, MP3 players and other portable music players, Ultrasone’s Zino features the company’s patented S-Logic™ and ULE™ safe listening technologies in an ultra-mobile design.

Ultrasone has given the Zino a sleek, modern look with gunmetal black, brushed aluminum ear cups and silver colored diamond-cut aluminum nameplates. Even though the Zino was designed for mobile applications, it features two powerful 40mm gold plated drivers, which most commonly are found in full-sized studio headphones. The Zino’s foldable design allows for easy storage and safe transportation in the included hard carrying case.

Despite its small size, the Zino utilizes Ultrasone’s patented S-Logic™ technology. Rather than directing the sound to the listener’s ear canal, as most conventional headphones do, S-Logic technology employs decentralized drivers that direct audio to the listener’s outer ear. This technology not only gives the user a natural surround experience in a stereo headphone by utilizing the ear’s anatomy, but it also reduces sound pressure on the eardrums by an astonishing 40%.

Additionally, the Zino features MU-Metal shielding (ULE technology) that reduces the amount of radiation directed to the listener by up to 98%, as compared to conventional headphones.

Zino Technical Specifications

• Principle: Dynamic / Semi-Closed
• Impedance: 35 Ohm
• Driver size: 40mm Gold plated
• Magnet: NdFeB
• Frequency range: 25 – 25,000 Hz
• SPL: 101dB
• Weight (excl. cord): 84g
• Cord length: 1,2m (OFC Cable)
• 3.5mm gold plated slim-plug

"The combination of eye-catching aesthetics, phenomenal sound and convenient portability makes Zino the best mobile headphones Ultrasone has ever created," said Paul Taylor, President of Ultrasone Inc. “Music lovers, concerned about the effects that ear buds have on their hearing, will be glad to know a safer and better sounding headphone solution is here.”
The Zino headphones have a MSRP of $129 and are available at Amazon.com and www.ultrasone.com

Uninstalling Malware Doctor

2009-05-28T09:19:00.006-05:00

Uninstalling Malware Doctor

Malware Doctor is a particularly annoying piece of spyware. Not only does it load your system with Malware Doctor, but it also hijacks your browser settings, adding a proxy connection. The image illustrates the location of the malicious executables associated with Malware Doctor.

The associated path is C:\Documents and Settings\LocalService\Application Data

Removal of Malware Doctor

The first step in removal of Malware Doctor is:
1) Disable "system restore" on your PC (this is only temporary)
2) Delete these 3 exe files (the most important one is 691447002.exe.
3) Empty your recycle bin
4) Reboot

The next step is to run a scan of your pc using a bona fide spy-malware scanner. There are many - I have used PC Tools Spyware Doctor, you may use that, or Hijack This, Adaware etc. make sure these programs are updated!

5) Scan your registry for the 691447002.exe entry and delete if it exists.
6) Scan your registry for any unwanted processes in the startup folder and delete them as well.
7) Reboot
8) Scan your system once again.

Browser Hijacks

The easiest way to tell if you still have malware Doctor installed is to try to open your registry editor, or task manager. If these do not launch (registry editor\ Task manager has been Disabled by Your administrator) then you are still infected.

If you are unable to rowse websites, you are still infected. The first step to regaining the ability to browse the internet is to remove any proxy settings from your browser. Unless you use a proxy, in which case, you will need to reset those settings.

New Military Icon Sets

2009-05-26T08:02:00.002-05:00

New Military Icons

Aha-Soft announces the release of Military Icon Set, a collection of
royalty-free army icons depicting various objects and symbols used by
game developers and Web designers. The set of military icons is
available in many sizes and resolutions, with raster images supplied
with every order and vector sources available for a fee.

About Military Icon Set

Military Icon Set offers a variety of military icons drawn in Windows
Vista style. Supplying army icons such as Aim icon, Arrow icon, Maps
icon, Dragon and Alert icons, the collection of military icons will
make any strategic game, army-related product or weapon collectors Web
site look slick, consistent and professional throughout. Designed in
accordance with Microsoft guidelines for Windows Vista icons, Military
Icon Set will not look out of place on the newest Vista PCs thanks to
32-bit icons with semi-transparency and large, 256x256 pixel versions
available.

Technically, all army icons are provided in sizes of 16x16, 24x24,
32x32, 48x48, 128x128, and 256x256 pixels. 256-color and 32-bit True
Color versions are supplied. All military icons are provided in GIF,
PNG, BMP, and Windows ICO formats. Optional vector sources in 3DS Max
format are available for a fee.

All military icons from the collection of army icons are available
immediately with full online previews. Ordering Military Icon Set,
developers and designers always know exactly what they are getting
before placing an order. Military Icon Set is royalty-free, allowing
Web designers, game and software developers to purchase a single copy
of the collection of army icons and use the set to release as many
games, products and Web sites as desired. Military Icon Set cost
$29.95 for the entire set, with each army icon available separately
for $5. More than a hundred army icons are available.

Forget P2P and Torrents, NZB is The King!

2009-05-05T09:03:00.004-05:00

Forget P2P and Torrents, NZB is The King!

What was once old is new again. P2P and Torrent sites for now, are the primary means of file sharing and downloading of illegal software, however with the recent media attention on the torrent sites like pirate bay, all eyes are watching. Expect changes in how you download and file share.

The strange fact is that this whole while as the media has latched onto MP3 pirating attention from Napster (already over a decade ago) and then bearshare, limewire, morpeheus, and Bittorrent, there has always been one little known player in the software doewnloading and sharing arena. What's more, this player has been around since the start of the Internet.

The player I'm referring to is Usenet, or newsgroups as they are commonly called. Although they are not impervious to the ever watchful eyes of software piracy police, they generally do fly under the radar pretty well. Why is this? Well for starters, there is a bit of a learning curve. This acts as a natural deterrent, and tends to have less new users, or 'noobs, newbies' as they are affectionately called.

The main reason the newsgroups didn't catch on as a major player was the difficulty in using usenet. Usenet - in itself is not user friendly. Go figure. The name doesn't refer to ease of use, but rather to the massive amounts of data and activity from the public, or the users.

Usenet is public and anonymous and completely free and uncensored. The ease of use has always been an issue until recently. NewsBin developed a propreitary file format to make usenet life a lot easier!

The Usenet Equation: newsgroups <> categories <> messages <> message attachments = software, movies, music, games, pictures, ebookes etc.
When accessing usenet, you are accessing groups or messages arranged by category. These categories then have thousands of messages in them. Each message is listed in a thread which consists of attachments to the messages. A single thread can contain an entire movie, or a season of a tv series, a complete xbox 360 game and so on. All these are split into smaller pieces which are then posted to the newsgroups.

The problem is that there are thousands upon thousands of messages posted each day, and wading through them all requires you to download the message headers to be able to search them. This includes mesasage headers that you do not want. This takes bandwidth, and time and hard drive space.

The alternative is to search usenet newsgroups and download only the message headers that you want. Better yet, download exacvtly the threads and messages you want. The solution is called a NZB file (or a newzbin file)

Newzbin.com created a file format called an NZB file that does exactly this. A NZB file contains all the message ID's and the newstgroup category they are posted to. This means you no longer need to download message headers to search the actual newsgroup, but rather only search for the nzb files themselves.

This change to usenet spawned many NZB search websites. Once you have found the nzb file - for example, a new Album or Video, You load the NZB file into a newsreader and star downloading the messages (which containthe attachments).

The next stage in Newsgroups is NZB movie streaming. Which allows you to watch movies using the newsgroups. No more P2P, and Torrents, well NZB files are the answer.

Usenet itself is 30 years old, believe it or not, yet it is likely one of the biggest kept secrets of the internet.

First eco-respectful high performance batteries

2009-04-29T19:21:00.003-05:00

FUJI ENVIROMAX:™ ECO-RESPECTFUL, HIGH PERFORMANCE BATTERIES IN STORES NATIONWIDE, AMAZON.COM

MAHWAH, NJ (APRIL 2009) – Fuji EnviroMAX™, one of the first eco-respectful, high performance batteries on the market, is now available to consumers in stores across the country and online at Amazon.com. The much-anticipated battery line, which comes in Super Alkaline and Digital Alkaline varieties was just awarded the National Parenting Center Seal of Approval for its “impressive performance” and “environmentally respectful manufacturing process.”

“Consumers looking for easy, affordable ways to go green can start right now with Fuji EnviroMAX batteries,” said Jeff Kreidenweis, Director of Sales. “EnviroMAX batteries are made from materials that are derived from the basic elements of the Earth. There is nothing inside a Fuji EnviroMAX battery that will harm the environment.” The batteries are free of added poisonous mercury and cadmium, and can be disposed of in most landfills.*

Competitively priced, Fuji EnviroMAX batteries equal or exceed the performance and longevity of major equivalent brands. The Super Alkaline, available in AA, AAA, C, and D (MSRP $3.99), offer unexcelled power for the most common applications such as toys, radios, or flashlights. Digital Alkaline, available in AA and AAA (MSRP $5.99), are engineered to provide superior performance in high-drain electronic devices such as digital cameras, remotes and video games.

Consumers will find the batteries online at Amzazon.com, and at all ACO and ACE Hardware stores; select Sears, Target, Do It Best, and Tru Value Hardware stores; Dick’s Sporting Goods, Big Y Stores (Massachusetts), Shop Rite and Kings Supermarkets (New Jersey), Shop’ n Save (St. Louis), Marsh Supermarkets (Indianapolis), and other chains. Fuji EnviroMAX batteries can also be ordered online direct from the company at www.greenfuji.com

Fuji EnviroMAX batteries are made in some of the world's most eco-respectful battery plants, operating under ISO 14001 environmental certification -- some of the strictest standards of environmental responsibility. “Most of all resources used in the Fuji EnviroMAX manufacturing process are reused and recycled,” Kreidenweis explained. “What's more, Fuji EnviroMAX batteries are labeled with PET plastic and packaged with recycled paper. The result is batteries that meet a world standard for environmental responsibility and recyclable materials.”

For more information about Fuji EnviroMAX batteries, please visit www.greenfuji.com.

Vuzix Expands 3D Format Support for Video Eyewear

2009-04-29T14:54:00.001-05:00

Vuzix Expands 3D Format Support for Video Eyewear and Includes Automatic 3D Sensing

Newly updated 3D feature automatically configures the video eyewear to field sequential, side by side and anaglyph formats

Rochester, NY – April 29th, 2009 – Vuzix Corporation, the leader in video eyewear for the consumer, defense and low vision markets, is thrilled to announce expanded 3D video format support for its AV Video Eyewear products. In addition to continued support for standard 2-D video, the 3D video format upgrade is being expanded to include field sequential, side by side and 3 formats of anaglyph. A new Auto 3D sensing feature enables Vuzix video eyewear to immediately determine a 3D video format and effortlessly configure the eyewear for 3D display of your chosen content.

The 3D format support upgrade and the Auto 3D feature are being added to all new Vuzix iWear® AV models. Additionally, a downloadable free firmware update will enable existing video eyewear customers with compatible models to upgrade their eyewear with these great new features.

3D is experiencing a rapid reemergence as major motion picture studios announce 3D titles, major networks broadcast in 3D and internet availability and interest in 3D video content increases. 3D video is being released in a variety of formats, requiring its audience to use a multi-format compatible viewer or end up with limited content options. Vuzix’ expanded support now encompasses all major 3D formats and allows users to select the correct option through a simple on-screen selection. To further simplify the process, 3D video content containing a Vuzix 3D watermark will automatically configure the video eyewear to display the appropriate format.

“While it is amazing to see the explosion in 3D content showing up in NBA game broadcasts and various sports and entertainment broadcasts across the globe; it’s equally frustrating to see the challenges the industry faces with multiple competing formats,” said Vuzix CEO, Paul Travers. “By supporting all common 3D formats and allowing the user to easily select between them, we’ll ensure full compatibility and optimal viewing performance and enjoyment,” added Travers.

For additional information and to download the iWear® 3D Upgrade, please visit www.vuzix.com.

Radial 50 Contest to Win a Free iPod Touch

2009-04-27T15:42:00.003-05:00

Radial 50 Announces Nation-wide Contest to Win Free iPod Touch

Radial 50, an up-and-coming iPhone game, announces the kick-off of a nation-wide contest where clues and hints lead participants towards a free iPod Touch and other prizes.

St. Louis, MO. April 21, 2009— Radial 50, the soon-to-be-released title from Roundthird (www.roundthird.com) on the iPhone gaming platform, is pleased to announce the launch of the Radial 50 iPod Touch Contest. The contest consists of seven days of clues, beginning April 22, 2009 and ending April 28, 2009, that all lead to one final answer. The first 100 submitted correct answers will enter into a drawing for a free iPod Touch.

Participants in the contest can receive the clues from multiple sources, namely by visiting the Radial 50 website (www.radial50.com/contests) and following Radial 50 on Twitter—www.twitter.com/radial50. A new clue will appear on the website and the Twitter feed each day for seven days. Contestants may submit guesses of the final answer at any point during the seven days, plus 24 hours after the final clue; however, each person may only answer once. Although the first 100 correct guesses have a chance at winning the iPod Touch, all correct answers, regardless of order submitted, will be entered into a drawing for a $25 Apple gift card and a $25 iTunes gift card. more

The actual contest link is here