tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-67464629172356386852024-02-08T00:00:06.143-06:00Monkey Simple TechTechnology can be intimidating, but we do our best to make technology understandable, interesting and even fun. We'll look at not just computers and cell phones, but gadgets, how-to, tech news and sometimes I'll just showcase an item I think is cool. Authorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07434693271115319736noreply@blogger.comBlogger145125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6746462917235638685.post-55309719519573829712014-12-02T12:11:00.000-06:002014-12-02T12:11:00.210-06:00Be the hero under the tree: Here's the secret on saving 30-50% off name-brand, high-tech Christmas presents.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Christmas sure has changed since I was a kid.<br />
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When I was eight, as my youngest is now, I looked forward to GI Joe action figures, a new football or even my dream present: a 5.5 HP cherry-red go-kart with a genuine vinyl driver's seat. The Sears catalog was my obsession and the closet thing to electronics I experienced was my sister's EZ Bake Oven.<br />
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Now, unless the present goes beep or has rechargeable batteries, my kids are just not interested. Subjectively, this isn't an issue until it comes time to pull out my wallet and pay for these miracles of technology. As soon as my AmEx card starts to cry from all of the overuse, I start looking for alternatives that deliver the same quality, but is easier on my bank account.<br />
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Then, I found out about certified, reconditioned products. These are often lightly used or completely untouched items returned to the manufacturer by the original purchasers. By law, they cannot be resold as new, so the manufacturer sells them at a discount- sometimes a big discount- to smart consumers looking for a great deal. The reasons for return are many: the buyer may have changed their minds, the product is the wrong color, there was a minor repair needed or simply there was no one to sign for the delivery.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4j1oXwKmjHIBN0ycGBanWYlRo7pkYhmtntlK_y7bWZgqgr0FqMQqQtONckoSPxQzp4_YJIdAfrzd-46k1rku3BQ4hlpZZFEXvh9xq32rF97qvkFW_DM843OmeYDiPq4tRUqQwdIaLj3w/s1600/Kindle+8.9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4j1oXwKmjHIBN0ycGBanWYlRo7pkYhmtntlK_y7bWZgqgr0FqMQqQtONckoSPxQzp4_YJIdAfrzd-46k1rku3BQ4hlpZZFEXvh9xq32rF97qvkFW_DM843OmeYDiPq4tRUqQwdIaLj3w/s1600/Kindle+8.9.jpg" height="293" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Is this Kindle 8.9 HD new or used? <br />If you can't tell, why not save some money?<br />(amazon.com)</td></tr>
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The manufacturer takes the returns, repairs them if necessary and thoroughly tests them to confirm they're operating properly. Then, they're resold with the manufacturer's full warranty.<br />
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The pros of this kind of purchase are obvious. The price is lower- sometimes 30-50% lower than the identical brand-new product. The testing procedure after repair is often more rigorous than at the factory of origin and can spot and correct problems before the product heads out of the door.<br />
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Cons? Sometimes, selection is severely limited to stock on hand and your choices of colors, sizes, memory capacity, etc. may change every week. Older models may be your only choice or the reconditioned products may be completely sold out, forcing you to spend more to buy new.<br />
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Here are three of the most popular companies that recondition and sell their products:<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b style="text-decoration: underline;">Apple </b> </span><br />
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The secret to buying reconditioned at Apple is checking back daily and buying as early as possible as these bargains go fast. Everything from iMacs, iPods and iPads are available as well as closeouts and clearance products. Everything is guaranteed and the prices are pretty good too, And, hey...it's Apple!<br />
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Go to this URL to shop: <a href="http://store.apple.com/us/browse/home/specialdeals" target="_blank"> http://store.apple.com/us/browse/home/specialdeals</a><br />
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<b><u><span style="font-size: large;">Amazon</span></u></b><br />
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Not long ago, I bought a certified, factory reconditioned 8.9" Kindle HD tablet for around $125 less than new. It works perfectly and with the savings, I was able to upgrade from 32 gigs of memory to 64 gigs and I also bought a case and extra charger and <i><u>still </u></i>saved around $85 from the identical new product. If anything does go wrong, the excellent Amazon customer service will take care of business and repair or replace my tablet with no trouble. But, so far, my tablet is humming along nicely. Remember to ensure that the tablet is <u><i>reconditioned and certified by Amazon itself </i></u>and no other 3rd party.<br />
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Go here to see more reconditioned Amazon products: <a href="http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_0_21?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=reconditioned+kindles&sprefix=reconditioned+kindles%2Caps%2C211" target="_blank">Certified Reconditioned Kindles</a><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Dell</u></b></span><br />
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As one of the largest manufacturers of all things computer, Dell has a thriving refurbishment and clearance business not only for home or casual use, but also business and corporate products for the big boys. Selection may be small, but with persistence and a bit of luck, you just might run across a terrific deal for yourself.<br />
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Go here to spend your money: <a href="http://www.dell.com/learn/us/en/22/campaigns/outlet" target="_blank">Dell Outlet</a><br />
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If you can't find your ideal gift on these sites, simply Google "reconditioned ---------" along with the item of your choice. For the most peace of mind, ensure the product is reconditioned and guaranteed by the original manufacturer and you'll have the happiest 8 year-old in the neighborhood.<br />
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Now, let's see if anyone reconditions 5.5 HP cherry-red go-karts with a genuine vinyl driver's seat...<br />
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Authorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07434693271115319736noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6746462917235638685.post-1007415754605586392014-10-30T10:59:00.000-05:002014-10-30T10:59:11.486-05:00Three Video Streaming sticks compared: How does the Amazon Fire TV Stick, the Roku Streaming Stick and the Google Chromecast help you cut the cable TV habit?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
We have a Smart TV in the living room. All by itself, the TV is able to connect to the internet using its built-in WiFi connection to access video services like Hulu, Netflix, YouTube and others. It's a great way to connect these services without running extra wires and occupying another electrical outlet.<br />
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The other two TVs are in the master bedroom and den. These are not Smart TVs but still have a way to get the subscriber services because they're both hooked up to individual XBoxes. It's not such a big deal in the den, where my kids play video games, but the one in the master is used solely to access Netflix so my wife can watch "Orange is the New Black" in peace. Without much room on the dresser for both the TV and the console, the whole arrangement looks messy and its a pain to turn on the box, sign in to XBox live, find Netflix, sign into that, enter your specific saved search and on and on...<br />
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She's been getting tired of this unsightly, tedious arrangement and so have I. Luckily, the tech industry has spotted an opportunity and has filled it with some interesting solutions.<br />
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The first few products consist of a small box the size of a paperback book. Several companies produce this kind of product including Roku, Sony, Amazon Fire TV and others. They are simple plug n' play devices that deliver all of the content anyone could possibly want. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd18jVTiuGYqM7eKq_n8tPjDXPqqVWcadkq8kkEnxA0dC1Z-M1W4ZKY6HszB7V4k-GtXYwT__Y1-xq6Mte5w-Xh_uUhPYAqy7ZnYHHlyid_m0wkvjy8zljkigpK1SlrUBTMVJTciJ4_DM/s1600/roku+box.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd18jVTiuGYqM7eKq_n8tPjDXPqqVWcadkq8kkEnxA0dC1Z-M1W4ZKY6HszB7V4k-GtXYwT__Y1-xq6Mte5w-Xh_uUhPYAqy7ZnYHHlyid_m0wkvjy8zljkigpK1SlrUBTMVJTciJ4_DM/s1600/roku+box.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">No bigger than the palm of your hand.<br />(courtesy: The Verge)</td></tr>
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The problem is that each of these products are still a box that needs to be stored somewhere and yet another electrical plug that needs a spot on the power strip. If this is not an issue for you, by all means go ahead and acquire one or more of these for your entertainment setup. But, there is another option.<br />
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If size matters to you (insert inappropriate joke here) there are some great video-streaming products out there that not only deliver the same content as the set-top boxes, but do it in a small package no larger than a pack of gum.<br />
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The main players in this game are the Google Chromecast, Roku Streaming Stick and the Amazon Fire TV stick. Size wise, they're all about the same and the prices range from $35 for the Chromecast, $39 for the Amazon and $49 for the Roku.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBquZ4Ph1QiCyPV6kRIbo-xh65CtHVtKs-5ZC_DgGMu7SVHn4lMkffUZp4QbruJPnw2sXCleNDqVuRnfGE997cvV5tqg-6Pnr0uKPSHMZnqZlz9WgGOQ8V_3OHxHH7DcU6TUOkkWpEBoI/s1600/Fire+TV+Stick_Roku_Chromecast-578-80.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBquZ4Ph1QiCyPV6kRIbo-xh65CtHVtKs-5ZC_DgGMu7SVHn4lMkffUZp4QbruJPnw2sXCleNDqVuRnfGE997cvV5tqg-6Pnr0uKPSHMZnqZlz9WgGOQ8V_3OHxHH7DcU6TUOkkWpEBoI/s1600/Fire+TV+Stick_Roku_Chromecast-578-80.jpg" height="223" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Invisibly turn your dumb TV into a smart one in seconds<br />(courtesy: techradar)</td></tr>
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All of them use your television's HDMI port to get power (no AC plug!) and deliver the HD content to the TV. And, because of it's small size, it vanishes behind the TV. Two out of three come with a remote (Chromecast uses an app you download to your smartphone) and that's it.<br />
My family cancelled our cable and we pay a combined $15/mo for unlimited streaming of thousands of TV shows and movies. We call it "semi-cable" and don't miss Ch**ter cable at all.<br />
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CNET.com compared the three big players discussed above and produced a handy chart to compare and contrast them for your review. Go to the article here.<br />
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Techradar did the same. Go <a href="http://www.techradar.com/news/television/hdtv/fire-tv-stick-vs-roku-streaming-stick-vs-chromecast-1270809" target="_blank">here for another opinion</a>.<br />
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And, here's yet another<a href="http://www.gadgetreview.com/2014/05/10-of-the-best-streaming-media-players-boxes-to-consider-2014" target="_blank"> comparison from gadgetreview.com</a>.<br />
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Amazon's page for the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00GDQ0RMG/ref=ods_gw_ftvs_nonpromo?ie=UTF8&nav_sdd=aps&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=center-1&pf_rd_r=0Y65XVNCB6BNGMTB440E&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=1959968102&pf_rd_i=507846" target="_blank">TV Streaming Stick is here</a>. Although they are so back ordered that you can expect delivery after the New Year.<br />
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Authorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07434693271115319736noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6746462917235638685.post-42721962479931367702014-10-01T10:39:00.003-05:002014-10-01T10:39:49.291-05:00The iPhone 6 and 6+ Review: Are these bigger phones worth the (much) bigger price tag?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
The iPhone 6 and the larger iPhone 6+ have been in user's hands for about 10 days now and the user reviews are starting to come in.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioMam7Mc3lAYE9BTmG6BPYfDJkyKKNw6dGJR7JqdY4ECxW42WBM4OpuXcPEek5IuQ1l7RBdj5NFYOSzpABobQqKD7-mNmfgxdGFiHmgFEFgCw-BVtARu3Yx77jQJXesL4TLZZCWrzmBK0/s1600/iphone+6+size+comparison.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioMam7Mc3lAYE9BTmG6BPYfDJkyKKNw6dGJR7JqdY4ECxW42WBM4OpuXcPEek5IuQ1l7RBdj5NFYOSzpABobQqKD7-mNmfgxdGFiHmgFEFgCw-BVtARu3Yx77jQJXesL4TLZZCWrzmBK0/s1600/iphone+6+size+comparison.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In user's hands: iPhone 6 (L) and iPhone6+ (R)</td></tr>
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To review, the new iPhones are larger (6= 4.7", 6+= 5.5") than the current iPhone 5s and are more in line with Android phone manufacturers who have been offering much more screen real estate for years now. Additionally, the new iPhones arrive with iOS8, a new camera and the ability to pay for your stuff using Near Field Communications technology and a great deal more.<br />
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Apple also claims the iPhones are the thinnest Apple phones ever, although I have always been puzzled as to why this claim is so important to their market. If it takes an extra millimeter to add a huge battery for a long life, I don't care- just get it done. But Apple has an obsession with thin, thin, thin and thinks everyone else does too. I don't think it's all that important, but apparently others do.<br />
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<a href="http://www.techradar.com/us" target="_blank">TechRadar</a> extensively reviewed the phone recently and found it to be a better product all around, although they did criticize it for it's high price and average screen resolution. You can <a href="http://www.techradar.com/us/reviews/phones/mobile-phones/iphone-6-1264565/review" target="_blank">find the review here</a>. Be warned- the review runs for twelve pages and is best viewed on a desktop or tablet as loading a new page every 45 seconds can get tedious.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQdoWfO9qSrbkwpeCOlpT3qfZz00y0IoBed96LWlJm4rUMmEkmIApO2jMqqh1k0BVZBbuOcKmLJCnSdYXaOf0z14JyYzMnFua1llUDxSmzbiYVysa3FLczv-T9AAjG9r1NG03Mqb0eXU4/s1600/Fry+iPhone.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQdoWfO9qSrbkwpeCOlpT3qfZz00y0IoBed96LWlJm4rUMmEkmIApO2jMqqh1k0BVZBbuOcKmLJCnSdYXaOf0z14JyYzMnFua1llUDxSmzbiYVysa3FLczv-T9AAjG9r1NG03Mqb0eXU4/s1600/Fry+iPhone.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stephen Fry with his iPhone 6+ (I told you it was large!)<br />(courtesy: Gizmodo)</td></tr>
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In more humorous vein, British funnyman <a href="http://www.stephenfry.com/" target="_blank">Stephen Fry</a>- long time and proud tech geek, Apple fan and commentator- has written his take on the iPhone 6. It is very British with it's terms and lingo and slang, but his message is clear and delightful to read. Click <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/technology/2014/sep/17/-sp-stephen-fry-iphone-6-verdict-most-exquisite-mobile-ever-made" target="_blank">here to go to it</a>.<br />
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Will I get one of the bigger iPhone 6 siblings when the time comes to make that decision (March of next year)? I'm not sure...<br />
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I mean, my iPhone5 has been trouble-free and reliable for the past 18 months, but the way I use my smartphone doesn't necessarily mean I need a million apps, or one of the gazillion accessories available for the iPhone family. And the cost! Wow...<br />
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There's a lot of competition out there from Android and Windows phones and they're just going to get better every few months. So, when March arrives, I'm going to have to think a great deal about my next smartphone choice.<br />
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I can't wait.<br />
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Authorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07434693271115319736noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6746462917235638685.post-65466847561275963382014-09-26T22:18:00.001-05:002014-09-26T22:18:25.429-05:00How to Buy a Motorcycle that ISN'T a Harley Davidson- the 2015 Indian Motorcycle is a Classic Alternative!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Being popular doesn't mean that <u><i>everyone </i></u>wants you.<br />
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There are people in the world looking to separate themselves from the crowd. They seek out the different, the unusual and the unknown. Motorcycle enthusiasts know this well and look for choices that speak to their personality- that's the reason they buy motorcycles and not a station wagon.<br />
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Harley Davidson motorcycles are fantastic bikes, but every dentist, accountant and insurance agent with a mid-life crisis has one. And usually in black. What if I'm one of the folks out there shopping for a different kind of bike? A choice that isn't necessarily the popular or expected one? There's even a<a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/I-hate-Harleys/116066205091394" target="_blank"> Facebook page </a>dissing the ride from Milwaukee.<br />
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That's why the free market exists, my friends. There is apparently enough demand for a classically styled motorcycle that isn't a Harley to support competition for that 53 year-old salesman's hard earned money.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt8bF6NoYEWNxMQc1o77hy8TgliyZbDDSsPbbvIsbFquciXrgqEq2K7Z9bpaaGEbiS8RBASvQRlN88f-qGTx4FebPcoAisRrx-ZoXid88Klv_jVacLp9iRdKN6nir7ZApDNah9EmElsHI/s1600/072614-2015-Indian-Roadmaster-f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt8bF6NoYEWNxMQc1o77hy8TgliyZbDDSsPbbvIsbFquciXrgqEq2K7Z9bpaaGEbiS8RBASvQRlN88f-qGTx4FebPcoAisRrx-ZoXid88Klv_jVacLp9iRdKN6nir7ZApDNah9EmElsHI/s1600/072614-2015-Indian-Roadmaster-f.jpg" height="196" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Put this in a group of typical black Harleys and see who gets noticed.<br />(motorcycle.com)</td></tr>
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Indian Motorcycle is a name nearly as legendary as Harley Davidson. Born at the turn of the last century, Indian disappeared from the scene in the 50's but was resurrected in the early 2000's as an entry into the growing market for classic motorcycles.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilbQIp9SGIiW6VjUso6i20SajJRh-D14Qux1BacBJnyO72JTxZTAe8bhbQlDMKQs4568G7Tf44LdnlvmW_pIMb4F4_ouGic8ZUmh8Jx8X3wKwWluK3jAZGdbhJ3mDHSQa46mVBl-SjZYI/s1600/2015-Indian-Scout-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilbQIp9SGIiW6VjUso6i20SajJRh-D14Qux1BacBJnyO72JTxZTAe8bhbQlDMKQs4568G7Tf44LdnlvmW_pIMb4F4_ouGic8ZUmh8Jx8X3wKwWluK3jAZGdbhJ3mDHSQa46mVBl-SjZYI/s1600/2015-Indian-Scout-2.jpg" height="200" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">NOT a Harley.<br />(Indianmotorcycle.com)</td></tr>
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Ever since its Phoenix-like rise, Indian has built a near cult following with it's brawny appearance and relative rarity. This doesn't mean the Indian is primitive, however. It's packed with state of the art electronics and options that allow it to keep up with the Harleys of the world.<br />
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But, who are we kidding? In this market, style is king and the Indian is sculpted with classic shapes, covered in dramatic color choices and dressed in stylish accessories designed to tell the world that what you're riding isn't a Harley.<br />
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It's an Indian<br />
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And that's all any High School principal could ask.<br />
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To see the 2015 Indian lineup, go to<a href="http://www.indianmotorcycle.com/en-us" target="_blank"> the website here</a>.<br />
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Plus, there's <a href="http://www.motorcycle.com/manufacturer/indian/2015-indian-roadmaster-first-ride-review.html" target="_blank">a review of the 2015 Indian Roadmaster</a> on Motorcycle.com. </div>
Authorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07434693271115319736noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6746462917235638685.post-19877110965995822582014-09-26T15:26:00.000-05:002014-09-26T15:26:03.458-05:00The Thor Vegas RUV. A new kind of Class-A RV- small on size, small on price and BIG on value!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
My parents owned their own business for 40 years. My dad, in particular, worked extremely hard to make the business a success. 16 hour days, seven days a week were the norm. He landed clients, serviced accounts and built his reputation until he was the go-to guy in his industry for advice, questions and quality results. Not bad for someone who had to quit high school to help support his family.<br />
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Now, 40 years later, my parents are enjoying the fruits of their long days of toil by travelling the USA in an RV. Not just any RV, mind you, but a true land yacht that's 36 feet long, swathed in leather and granite and cost more than my first house (and nearly as much as my 2nd!). Don't ask me about the fuel bill...<br />
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That's OK with me because they earned it. But, I've been watching the fun and memories they've been having and it got me and the wife to thinking about making some RV memories of our own. But, with two little ones still in school and their big sister in college, I doubt we'll be procuring the rolling mansion my parents have now. So, I started looking around the internet for something a bit more practical for a middle-class family budget and needs.<br />
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We thought about a trailer, but then decided against it because of backing up issues and they seem so, well...flimsy, I guess. Then we looked at Class-C models (the kind with an obvious truck cab up front), but found nothing that seemed to catch our eye.<br />
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Finally, we started searching available Class-A models. These are the traditional all-in-one models with the steering and seats as a part of the interior. Nothing seemed right until we stumbled across the Vegas RUV.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0CbAEBcLDOhhyDyx5R1xX53m4JaGTmgFfs5e-AB8vkzSQ7K5uzAkdEnLVauy4_ta9eLMnd8g46qTttXtx98DEYxvWPZos0diAT23IzyTsgMCoYR-O-IaIrZto2OlsTaBbqioV0yksIwQ/s1600/Vegas-RUV-Class-A-Motorhomes.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0CbAEBcLDOhhyDyx5R1xX53m4JaGTmgFfs5e-AB8vkzSQ7K5uzAkdEnLVauy4_ta9eLMnd8g46qTttXtx98DEYxvWPZos0diAT23IzyTsgMCoYR-O-IaIrZto2OlsTaBbqioV0yksIwQ/s1600/Vegas-RUV-Class-A-Motorhomes.png" height="293" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vegas baby!<br />(Thormotorcoach.com)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Built by Thor Motor Coach, the Vegas and it's sister model, the Axis are far smaller than traditional Class-A motorcoaches. In fact, Thor claims the Vegas is only 5 feet longer than a Chevy Suburban, yet still sleeps 5 in complete comfort. It's because of this size distinction that Thor adds the "RUV" suffix for "<i>Recreational Utility Vehicle</i>".<br />
<br />
Regardless of the reason for the marketing department inspired name, the Vegas certainly has a distinctive appearance. It's curved windshield and stacked headlamps separate it from the other rolling boxes on the Class-A scene.<br />
<br />
Yet it still comes with equipped with all the comforts of home: flat screen TV, Queen sized bed, shower, solid surface counters and more.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfSkJLuEUsifLnZgrlcKYN5DktOLPyBo13PEKVW04jNcburAv6sP0KTCvUn3TFIerY4PbWeG6m8aYSJJpo4OfZMkVp7Amfj2DLMU0rabAx5E5ay16GjN17yUDVGm4Kq2eWXdPLNo0DOUw/s1600/24-foot-Class-A-Motorhomes+interior.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfSkJLuEUsifLnZgrlcKYN5DktOLPyBo13PEKVW04jNcburAv6sP0KTCvUn3TFIerY4PbWeG6m8aYSJJpo4OfZMkVp7Amfj2DLMU0rabAx5E5ay16GjN17yUDVGm4Kq2eWXdPLNo0DOUw/s1600/24-foot-Class-A-Motorhomes+interior.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This kitchen is fancier than the one in my house<br />(Thormotorcoach.com)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
And the best part is the price. in the world of RV sales, a new Class-A can easily cost in excess of $175,000 and go far, far higher. The Vegas, on the other hand, can be had for less than $75,000. Don't believe me? Check out <a href="http://www.rvtrader.com/listing/2015-Thor-Motor-Coach-Vegas-24.1-112546511" target="_blank">this link for proof</a>.<br />
<br />
As for our family's RV purchase plans? Spring is looking more likely for our purchase date and the Vegas is #1 on our list.<br />
<br />
I'll call my mom and see what she says.<br />
<br />
To see the Vegas on the <a href="http://vegas-motorhomes.com/" target="_blank">Thor Motor Coach website, click here</a>.<br />
</div>
Authorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07434693271115319736noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6746462917235638685.post-17883632086017145552014-09-09T15:35:00.002-05:002014-09-26T15:27:26.877-05:00The iPhone 6, the iPhone 6+ and the Apple Watch are introduced- The Big News Gets Even Bigger from Apple!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
After months of rumors, blurry photo leaks, vague predictions and geeks around the world treating today like Christmas, the announcement of the year finally took place in Cupertino, California this morning: Apple announced all-new iPhones and introduced a whole new product, the Apple Watch...nope, no "i" prefix at all.<br />
<br />
The new iPhone 6 and the iPhone 6+ are larger in nearly every way but thickness. The iPhone 6 has a larger 4.7 inch screen, a little bigger in square footage when compared to the "old" iPhone 5S and its now-tiny 4" screen. The iPhone 6+, on the other hand, is positively huge in comparison to the 5S and has entered into the "Phablet" space with a 5.5" screen.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMUCPnyBRXPQ2H5MaxJHDk-D2-4VgX-u8klxFnDLZRUrG9OEu9FBJBt-q5ZKiS__MTKWSe0Ka9yI6fzzgoiPEg5j8pQPqPqd8Audh6z2N93ZoYapOpeFEYbruaAbR475YmkQjXhmEkDMk/s1600/iphone-6-render-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMUCPnyBRXPQ2H5MaxJHDk-D2-4VgX-u8klxFnDLZRUrG9OEu9FBJBt-q5ZKiS__MTKWSe0Ka9yI6fzzgoiPEg5j8pQPqPqd8Audh6z2N93ZoYapOpeFEYbruaAbR475YmkQjXhmEkDMk/s1600/iphone-6-render-2.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Small, medium and large- From left, the iPhone 5S, iPhone 6 with a 4.7" screen<br />
and the huge iPhone 6+ with a 5.5" screen.<br />
(courtesy: Business Insider)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
"So what?" I hear you asking. "It's bigger. How is that a huge deal?"<br />
<br />
Well, gentle reader, it's something to notice because Apple literally invented the smartphone and ever since its 2007 introduction has stuck with the 4" screen year after year while competitors from Android and Windows Phone have built far larger products with screens <a href="http://www.archos.com/us/products/smartphones/xenon/archos_64xenon/index.html" target="_blank">nearly 7" acros</a><a href="http://www.archos.com/us/products/smartphones/xenon/archos_64xenon/index.html" target="_blank">s</a>. It seems that Apple's stubbornness finally gave way to consumer demand for more screen acreage. Current Apple iPhone apps will work just fine on the new models, but as developers produce apps that take advantage of the larger surface, Apple users will experience more content in a larger format.<br />
<br />
But, that doesn't mean the iPhone5S or the iPhone5C are history. Per his keynote address, Apple CEO Tim Cooke said both of the smaller phones will continue as part of the Apple iPhone family, but at a much lower price point. In fact, the 8G iPhone 5C is now free with a two-year contract with your favorite carrier.<br />
<br />
The cost for the iPhone 6 starts at $199 for the 32 Gig model and increases to $299 for 64G model with the top iPhone 6 at a strong 128G of memory for apps, games music and other content.<br />
<br />
The price of admission for the iPhone 6+ begins at $299 for 16G (not nearly enough memory, in my view), $399 for 32 G and a painful $499 for the 128G top o' the line version. $500 for a phone, even one that's under contract with a carrier? With equally sized Android and Windows phones with similar features going for less than two hundred dollars, I'm not sure I'll be able to make that kind of financial leap and to convince my wife that it's worth it too.<br />
<br />
Apple also introduced a new service called "Apple Pay" that will be available for the iPhone 6 twins exclusively. With Apple Pay, credit cards are unnecessary. The phones use your credit information and allow you to make purchases at every retail or eating outlet with a common NFC (Near Field Communications) receiver. Apple claims there are 220,000 receiving units in stores now with more being added daily. They also boast of extremely high level security to protect your financial information from unwanted attention. When you're ready to buy, you open the Apple Pay app, place your new iPhone near the receiver and scan your finger across the sensor at the bottom of the phone. That's it. No card, no wallet and no hassle.<br />
<br />
Apple's final announcement was made with their traditional "...just one more thing" as the keynote appeared to be drawing to a close. The hand-picked audience ooohed and ahhhed as Tim Cooke introduced the long-rumored "Apple Watch".<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGkDHMG3AaqYer5VwvqrGn3H52LR4RGs8ZZ5c3B2PaEbn6MK0LgFfm01bwGnLih5j321XS4gMsI5q__6rfCSDVelCnhkHVVnKHzLzTbedp1F16F8D9klk94WNC5UgFaSdXw0lcWVdcIiE/s1600/apple+watch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGkDHMG3AaqYer5VwvqrGn3H52LR4RGs8ZZ5c3B2PaEbn6MK0LgFfm01bwGnLih5j321XS4gMsI5q__6rfCSDVelCnhkHVVnKHzLzTbedp1F16F8D9klk94WNC5UgFaSdXw0lcWVdcIiE/s1600/apple+watch.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Apple thought the "time" was right for a smart-watch. The Apple Watch.<br />
(courtesy: ABCgo)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The Apple Watch is, in many ways, a tiny extension of the iPhone. Coming in two sizes, the Apple Watch is still a thick chunk of metal. Square and shiny, the face can accept dozens of stylish, replaceable watch bands. Besides keeping time to within 50 milliseconds a day, the Apple Watch can send messages, play music, read your heartbeat and act as a remote monitor for your iPhone's camera. The apps are mostly accessed using touch and the stem of the watch as a sort-of mouse controller. The watch requires a connection with your nearby iPhone to employ most of its features beyond telling the time, however.<br />
<br />
Apple's video can show it better than I can explain it, so you can go to <a href="http://www.apple.com/watch/films/#film-design" target="_blank">Apple's homepage to see the video here. </a><br />
<br />
The new phones will hit the streets in less than two weeks and the watches are due- vaguely- sometime early next year.<br />
<br />
Can you wait? Frankly, although the technology is impressive and the live demonstrations looked nice, I still want to see what Samsung, Motorola, Nokia and the other phone manufacturers will do before I go spending up to $500 for what amounts to a slightly larger iPhone 5.<br />
<br />
You can also go to the <a href="http://www.apple.com/" target="_blank">Apple home page</a> to see all the new products, too. </div>
Authorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07434693271115319736noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6746462917235638685.post-77342241934276017882014-08-29T10:46:00.000-05:002014-09-26T15:29:25.817-05:00Free Google Chrome Apps- How to Select the Best from Thousands of Choices for Games, Business and Home<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Surfing the web (do we still say that?) is fun and easy.<br />
<br />
But, there's more to the internet than traveling from website to website. Chances are, you got to this blog by using the Google Chrome browser. Other browsers like Safari (Apple) and Explorer (Microsoft) work just fine, but for sheer popularity around the world, Google Chrome comes out on top.<br />
<br />
However, it's time to stop thinking of Chrome as just a way to get from here to there on the interwebs. For some time now, Chrome has offered apps for their browser, just like a smartphone has apps to improve your phone experience.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGJfAuyAZ8oC4e9y9qdCN5op-CPaAjQ699mYTd_TnwHJ9vVrsDhUgDgZRF8vQG5KVESp1mYkR2mRVqDESGcEacLRFZzWItj1JqacUvnyQwk_FWANYqWmOz4LrxCzYTUYZxRvFU5mAuTpI/s1600/Chrome-Web-Store.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGJfAuyAZ8oC4e9y9qdCN5op-CPaAjQ699mYTd_TnwHJ9vVrsDhUgDgZRF8vQG5KVESp1mYkR2mRVqDESGcEacLRFZzWItj1JqacUvnyQwk_FWANYqWmOz4LrxCzYTUYZxRvFU5mAuTpI/s1600/Chrome-Web-Store.jpg" height="160" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
You can find the <a href="https://chrome.google.com/webstore/category/apps?hl=en-US&utm_source=chrome-ntp-launcher" target="_blank">Chrome Web Store here</a>. Once you arrive, you'll discover thousands of applications optimized to work within the Chrome browser. Just like a smartphone, you'll find apps for games, education, productivity and the like. Because most people use the Chrome browser on a larger device like a laptop or desktop computer, the apps tend to be specialized for use on a larger screen. You'll see apps for video editing, business presentations, product design, TV watching and much more.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC9w2D9aynTV_kkeKFQfBG9tcTtQC9eWALs9EXurBzM2jzesO-_uDSKXNjDmIqVtrLPSF2meZ5nfqmo_syCqvjVXm2ucEZ1oTeZlBWGPGUa05j3k_Q3DEDgk5qboGYEorc06bGLuGYnj8/s1600/Roomstyler.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC9w2D9aynTV_kkeKFQfBG9tcTtQC9eWALs9EXurBzM2jzesO-_uDSKXNjDmIqVtrLPSF2meZ5nfqmo_syCqvjVXm2ucEZ1oTeZlBWGPGUa05j3k_Q3DEDgk5qboGYEorc06bGLuGYnj8/s1600/Roomstyler.jpg" height="231" title="Roomstyler 3D" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Keep this app away from my wife<br />
(courtesy: Roomstyler.com)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
This can be especially helpful if you're seeking some assistance with home remodeling, for example. There are several apps that allow you to create a 3D view of your home. This way, you'll be better able to envision your changes by removing a wall, replacing carpet with hardwood, painting the dining room green, etc. and do it all within the app before you ever pick up a hammer. <a href="https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/roomstyler-3d-planner/jfnniehafojoidolddmhfnpnbiolbppi?hl=en-US&utm_source=chrome-ntp-launcher" target="_blank">Roomstyler 3D</a> is one typical app for this kind of project in the Chrome Web Store.<br />
<br />
Like I said before though, you can also find popular games like <i>Angry Birds</i>, <i>Cut the Rope</i> and others. They play just like the phone or tablet versions, but are modified to use your keyboard for control.<br />
<br />
The good news is most of the apps are free. However, "free" can be a vague and loose term, with different definitions from developer to developer. Some may give you the whole program for no money at all. Others may provide part of the program, but want you to pay for the rest (for example, an app may allow you to design a business card, but charge you to print it). And still others allow you to download the app for free only, but to use any of it at all, you must pay up first.<br />
<br />
So how do you find a great app for you when there are many to choose from? Read and pay attention to the reviews that come with every app. Chrome ranks apps on a five-star system and if you find an app with 173 reviews and an average four-star ranking, that usually means the app is a good one. However, is you see an app with 173 reviews and 1 1/2 stars, you'll probably want to move on to the next selection. Also, be sure to read the reviews, both good and bad, to get an overall feel for the product and it's suitability for you and your needs.<br />
<br />
Lastly, in the name of fairness, both Explorer and Safari do have quality app stores that provide the same services as Chrome, so check them out too. If you do, I think you'll enrich your internet experience, discover some new ideas and maybe even play a game or two.<br />
<br />
After all, isn't that why we all use the internet super highway (do we still use that term?)?</div>
Authorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07434693271115319736noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6746462917235638685.post-48247557447664568012014-08-25T12:32:00.001-05:002014-09-26T21:32:10.317-05:00 Four Easy Steps to Look Your Best in a Video Conference<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
My job often requires me to speak to clients, vendors and others via the internet, using online video services like Skype, Go To Meeting and others that make use of a camera and microphone plugged into the computer so the people on the other side of the meeting can see and hear me clearly. That part is easy. I can just use the built-in camera and mic provided by Apple for my iMac and be done with it.<br />
<br />
But my 22+ years in video production simply won't allow it. Oh, it hurts me when I hear a voice echoing like they're standing in an empty bathroom or see the face of a client silhouetted like a mob boss in the witness protection program. Why is this a problem? For some, it isn't. But we use our visual senses to form our perceptions of each other and a a dark, shadowy figure who's hard to hear won't build trust as easily as a sharply focused, well-lit person with the voice clarity of a network announcer.<br />
<br />
The good news is, the fix is an easy one, and it doesn't cost a lot of money to fix although you certainly can invest (and I chose that verb on purpose) in equipment to change your first impression from murky to marvelous. Here are a few ideas covering the basics of video conferencing so you can look and sound better every time. Let's cover the low end choices and conclude with higher end selections. Mix and match them to achieve the best effect for you.<br />
<br />
<div>
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><u>Camera</u></span></b></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The whole point of videoconferencing is to see each other, after all. The camera that came with your laptop or camera works, but just barely. If you're going to invest in anything, a better camera would be the best choice. Third party cameras have better resolution, sensitivity to light, placement options and can be taken from computer to computer for a consistent picture. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR-_PKX50vuXV4np7ht-AjIxKh6vPb-WAVtHJSbDGAJ_XkEXJNhPDOu7pjKCnyGCmoJZDgtaSe6_yYoqHCPq1orJBTY_pOCG5XtnSbWEOWar8U_tZ2oR_4g__T8YVzdk4mDcwba5T-WDc/s1600/Logitech.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR-_PKX50vuXV4np7ht-AjIxKh6vPb-WAVtHJSbDGAJ_XkEXJNhPDOu7pjKCnyGCmoJZDgtaSe6_yYoqHCPq1orJBTY_pOCG5XtnSbWEOWar8U_tZ2oR_4g__T8YVzdk4mDcwba5T-WDc/s1600/Logitech.jpg" height="200" width="181" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Almost anything is better than the<br />
factory camera for better video.<br />
(Logitech)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Choices are almost endless and not too bad on the wallet. So, this is a category where quality trumps price when selecting your camera. The Logitech HD Pro Webcam C920 is my webcam of choice. For about $68, everything will suddenly be brighter, colors bolder, focus crisper and the overall quality stunning. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
If you buy one thing to improve your video image, make it an external camera. </div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<u><b><span style="font-size: large;">Lighting</span></b></u></div>
<br />
Good lighting choices can often make the difference between being seen and not seen. Often, all it takes is turning off a switch in one place and turning on a different switch somewhere else.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwPiCwulYuSk3ehwom9ThxdeyFf7tqRtYyPg-L2CrsVz9y1d_5eX2Lu1l7E2tZIlcjJp-gzZrnprS-nIIFZUXrnDzcd9iNW-zyCj7OBwNjzl3b1SMgLpJ0keC_l066PlS2X7nbwb86pbA/s1600/before+after+lighting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwPiCwulYuSk3ehwom9ThxdeyFf7tqRtYyPg-L2CrsVz9y1d_5eX2Lu1l7E2tZIlcjJp-gzZrnprS-nIIFZUXrnDzcd9iNW-zyCj7OBwNjzl3b1SMgLpJ0keC_l066PlS2X7nbwb86pbA/s1600/before+after+lighting.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Who would YOU rather see?<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">(http://www.cc.gatech.edu/~cynthia/)</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The quickest and easiest thing you can do is place a light source somewhere in front of your face. A desk lamp, open window, under-shelf fluorescent or other light source turned on can flood your face with the light required to permit the camera to have as much light as it requires for the best possible image.<br />
<br />
Help out the lights in front of you by turning off some or all of the lights above and behind you. The idea is to make the image of you brighter than the background. Experiment with different combinations until you see a look you like. Make a note of what was on and off so you can replicate it when needed.<br />
<br />
To better control the light, invest in light specially designed and constructed just for video conferencing:<br />
<br />
On the definite high-end, the<u style="font-style: italic;"> <a href="http://www.videssence.com/product_select_view_me_fixtures.php" target="_blank">Videssence Viewme </a></u> is especially designed to mount on a computer monitor (or on either side of it with two stands) and provide two-point lighting for the best result possible. At nearly $200, it might be difficult to justify on your expense account, but the excellent results are undeniable.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTM-RhUm70-rByUSHm8ZsMrTDUvNNAkCOfyVWPow3j1qZCdBdDzn3go58I4EXwWoZOpo2jhVp2aIlSNZEwd51bZGd5WYPC2UfMLU9JDT2d8vDEcN5JKXDcv_E5hIVxVFXLQDXX_r5In44/s1600/videssence.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTM-RhUm70-rByUSHm8ZsMrTDUvNNAkCOfyVWPow3j1qZCdBdDzn3go58I4EXwWoZOpo2jhVp2aIlSNZEwd51bZGd5WYPC2UfMLU9JDT2d8vDEcN5JKXDcv_E5hIVxVFXLQDXX_r5In44/s1600/videssence.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">When appearance matters<br />
more than price.<br />
(Videssence)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Priced in the mid-range, the <i><u><a href="http://www.stellarlightingsystems.com/webstar-ll/" target="_blank">Webstar II</a></u></i> is a circle of LED lights surrounding your external webcam that you mount within the ring. The light also comes with a dimmer to adjust the amount of light required. It uses a USB plug to provide power so it's portable too. It retails for $50.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjTFOK-jV4zuVGDIzWQjWWgDzhBEG_Vk8yWkxrbyhQPBuGWaHAfjG986dE0qv2Bw80jyBzQhplemVsJSyEu4ZIXc4ZSpRhGtJLwtAbYITX1htHSsFf7YgyJjuek7h-z8PrT2HHJC3hLEg/s1600/webstar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjTFOK-jV4zuVGDIzWQjWWgDzhBEG_Vk8yWkxrbyhQPBuGWaHAfjG986dE0qv2Bw80jyBzQhplemVsJSyEu4ZIXc4ZSpRhGtJLwtAbYITX1htHSsFf7YgyJjuek7h-z8PrT2HHJC3hLEg/s1600/webstar.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Simple, easy and not too pricey. Nice.<br />
(Stellar Lighting)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
On the lower end, it becomes time to adapt lights that may have been created for a somewhat different purpose, but achieve a good result nonetheless. Here are two choices to consider:<br />
<br />
<br />
<div>
<div>
- The <i><u><a href="http://www.goalzero.com/p/15/luna-led-light" target="_blank">Goal Zero Luna LED</a></u></i> light mounts into a USB port and illuminates 10 lights across a long, thin bar. It's position is adjustable via an extended snake-like arm that can wrap around objects to keep it secure. You don't have to plug it directly into the computer. You can use a USB extension cord or a battery with a USB port (like the kind that charge cell phones). Not bad for less than $10. </div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin7F2fTlmDmLOr8bm_YX1Z7eu7e358Hc8bJfnu6PE-ClsEmpp-ylHjU7aQh_xtjCdXR_JEjMVpeaa_mXoi5jbk-b_0EcTSpoztoA3jhFLJdQAdYuCK6viq_zNLqwVhBvaRkKYCgW5b0eI/s1600/luna.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin7F2fTlmDmLOr8bm_YX1Z7eu7e358Hc8bJfnu6PE-ClsEmpp-ylHjU7aQh_xtjCdXR_JEjMVpeaa_mXoi5jbk-b_0EcTSpoztoA3jhFLJdQAdYuCK6viq_zNLqwVhBvaRkKYCgW5b0eI/s1600/luna.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Look how well lit his face is and it's not<br />
even angled toward his face.<br />
(Goal Zero)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
- The <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Mitaki-Japan-reg-Swivel-Work-Light/dp/B00ERZ8D4E/ref=sr_1_11?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1408987371&sr=1-11&keywords=mitaki+led" target="_blank">Mitaki-Japan 30 LED</a> light doesn't need a USB port at all. It uses 3 D-cell batteries, but will last a very long time as LED lights use battery juice at a miserly level. It's advantage is that each side of the lamp "splits" into two wing-like halves, simulating the two-point lighting of the pricey Videssence. Downsides? It's somewhat tall at 9 1/2 inches and needs a level surface like a shelf or stack of books. It's around $14 at Amazon.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEp9ggnmPJpCTqM-HMB5Sxqxq7kGfy_fQ-dPZMMvvkjptYBAjq-0E6c4xDt7ftZsJzgXh_7T0vUo8-7OBNPumWhfUi-fcVcxiEvSwtX3iLHCJ8OU07o5pblCeiFq4ZFz7m1TofOBM6c8w/s1600/Mitaki.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEp9ggnmPJpCTqM-HMB5Sxqxq7kGfy_fQ-dPZMMvvkjptYBAjq-0E6c4xDt7ftZsJzgXh_7T0vUo8-7OBNPumWhfUi-fcVcxiEvSwtX3iLHCJ8OU07o5pblCeiFq4ZFz7m1TofOBM6c8w/s1600/Mitaki.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just level out the "wings" and you're<br />
ready to light 'em up!<br />
(Amazon)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Sound</u></b></span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Nothing is worse to me than hearing that dreaded echo of a poor microphone that came with the camera. Barely audible, it seems the mic was purchased more for its low price than it's quality. Not to worry, because this is an issue that can be solved in seconds. Here are two types of microphone for better sound: </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Fee standing- </b></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Lots to pick from in this category. One great choice that occupies the higher spectrum is the <i><u><a href="http://www.bluemic.com/yeti/" target="_blank">Blue Yeti.</a></u></i> It appears like a classic, old-timey mic you might have seen on Johnny's desk, but the insides are all new-tech. It plugs directly into a USB port and is specially designed to pick up the spoken voice. No more echoes and it's adjustable so you get a "say" into how your voice sounds. For $106, you'll have to spend thousands more to beat the results. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj74QwQ6plIAKJZt7qBGyGDGlzsbYSH6ALPH7sUHk_7RFkhBJcS5dOG_x3vZ8WUE4_A6p_7I4rZA5XGt9Jyl_Tj9BRZMvQ7zfImhGSc9UHGbTFqDF24HzDBxmCeCvT-inQpMO11B6_W1H0/s1600/Blue+mic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj74QwQ6plIAKJZt7qBGyGDGlzsbYSH6ALPH7sUHk_7RFkhBJcS5dOG_x3vZ8WUE4_A6p_7I4rZA5XGt9Jyl_Tj9BRZMvQ7zfImhGSc9UHGbTFqDF24HzDBxmCeCvT-inQpMO11B6_W1H0/s1600/Blue+mic.jpg" height="218" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1950's look, 2015 technology in the Blue Yeti <br />
(Yeti not included)<br />
(Blue Audio)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
You can do nearly as well for $36 with the <a href="http://www.samsontech.com/samson/products/microphones/usb-microphones/gomic/" target="_blank"><i>Sampson Go Mic</i></a>. The quality is unquestioned and it's portable too. With a few less adjustments and smaller size, it is still a huge improvement over the factory supplied mic. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbR4BwazZcQWGalK6e8ghPt4ya51oKcrHE_AOzTXFFd4VVkUSPhoxHmJ1DY1WEFfnY2-MjoWpf90fXtSQgH3bZg3vyQrUVFitp1ZkHO3I4MpHPJmoNT0CJGKpMcbioX7EJtaCHWwfu4K8/s1600/Sampson+mic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbR4BwazZcQWGalK6e8ghPt4ya51oKcrHE_AOzTXFFd4VVkUSPhoxHmJ1DY1WEFfnY2-MjoWpf90fXtSQgH3bZg3vyQrUVFitp1ZkHO3I4MpHPJmoNT0CJGKpMcbioX7EJtaCHWwfu4K8/s1600/Sampson+mic.jpg" height="241" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sampson Go Mic<br />
(Sampson)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Headphone Mic</b></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
This type looks like a receptionist headphone set. Basically, it's a set of headphones with a long plastic arm attached to one side and the mic rests in front of the speaker's mouth. The good news is that the sound is great and you can hear everything just fine. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFFnbakrcrLZum6R30Q3u8Qjkosp0CfT6g1TCFSSLudLT08NZ5fHA3fMdiv_Q9vkdFtJeQHWz2uSAH0N_RQp_67d-wQHbIH6pu5TPBJH24NUznicubfdMykg1tejPfSRxYapHhCprwhwk/s1600/Logitech+head+mic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFFnbakrcrLZum6R30Q3u8Qjkosp0CfT6g1TCFSSLudLT08NZ5fHA3fMdiv_Q9vkdFtJeQHWz2uSAH0N_RQp_67d-wQHbIH6pu5TPBJH24NUznicubfdMykg1tejPfSRxYapHhCprwhwk/s1600/Logitech+head+mic.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A classic never goes out of style.<br />
(Logitech)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
The bad news is that you may appear awkward and unnatural. But, if it solves your poor sound quality issue, then it might be the solution you need. The classic product solution is the<i><a href="http://www.logitech.com/en-us/for-business/promotions/10639?pcid=10628" target="_blank"> Logitech ClearChat Comfor</a></i>t. For less than $20, it boasts an in-line mute button and a good reputation for solid performance. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Tips for a better video/audio result</b></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
- Is your LED light too bright and not adjustable? Just get to the grocery store and buy a roll of <i><a href="http://www.glad.com/food-storage/plastic-wrap/cling-wrap/" target="_blank">Glad Cling Wrap</a></i>. Pull down a few inches worth and press it (stick side down) against the lights. The "foggy" finish of the plastic will reduce and diffuse the light for a softer effect. Don't worry, it won't melt. LED lights produce no heat. If possible, you can also move the light away from you (make sure you still get a good result!).</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
- Experiment and preview your look. "Skype" yourself with a separate computer. Looking at your image, adjust lighting, camera angles, background clutter, etc. until you see a result you like. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
- Once you've determined light settings, background clutter, audio placement and so on, make a detailed diagram with all the extra notes you need to replicate this look when needed. This will eliminate guesswork and save precious time. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
- Place the camera at eye level or slightly higher (no more than two inches either way). This is normally the most flattering angle and keeps the camera from looking up your nostrils. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
- If possible, keep the microphone out of sight. Although it shouldn't matter, we are all children of television and a visible mic can be a distraction. </div>
<div>
<br />
- If practical, rehearse your presentation. Tape meeting notes on either side of of the camera, out of sight of your audience. Keeps notes just that- notes. A word-for-word script might cause you to read it like one and could sound odd or disingenuous.<br />
<br />
It seems like a lot to do for a powerful, positive effect, but it really isn't. If you take some simple steps to improve three areas: camera, lighting and audio, you'll be far ahead of 99% of your competition.<br />
<br />
And that's not a bad way to look at it.</div>
<div>
</div>
</div>
Authorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07434693271115319736noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6746462917235638685.post-35035937026811661702013-04-20T21:07:00.000-05:002013-04-20T21:07:02.997-05:00The Samsung Galaxy S4 Review- Should Apple Be Worried? <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
There was a time when no one could touch Apple.<br />
<br />
No one.<br />
<br />
Not any more. For the past three years, phone makers like Samsung and Nokia have been cranking out models that have creeped up on the iPhone franchise in terms of features, usefulness and design.<br />
<br />
Now, with the Samsung Galaxy S4, it appears the iPhone may now be the one playing catch up. With elements the iPhone lacks and some improvements over the S3, the new Galaxy offering is something to behold. With a 5" screen that dwarfs the iPhone's and mimics the Galaxy Note II, the S4 presents a sharp, bright screen with the ability to follow your finger strokes without you having to actually touch the screen!<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeyuyQmukvUgrG18w3G8VnkvGWse0pYrb_4gv81QglDhHeMOelAlPkZ3DCMsuWO3aOx0OXYX-w8FKQafmL-NkvP5GW9ykyrxjYOh5iTpZuOGbITjnF2phvpDvD4XI4pjd3quAGUkZqK_s/s1600/GALAXY+S4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeyuyQmukvUgrG18w3G8VnkvGWse0pYrb_4gv81QglDhHeMOelAlPkZ3DCMsuWO3aOx0OXYX-w8FKQafmL-NkvP5GW9ykyrxjYOh5iTpZuOGbITjnF2phvpDvD4XI4pjd3quAGUkZqK_s/s400/GALAXY+S4.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lookin' Good, Samsung<br />(droidlife.com)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Also, the S4 will follow your eye movements and will pause a video when it "sees" that your eyes have looked elsewhere. Does this feature work or is it even needed? Who knows? It seems likely that this will be party trick feature, used to impress iPhone users, but with no real-world utility.<br />
<br />
Some quibbles? Well, it's still made entirely of plastic, but it is high quality and nicely finished- plus, it didn't seem to hurt S3 sales any, so why change? Also, the visual design changes made to the case is so subtle, most folks won't notice that you've acquired the la-di-da phone of the moment.<br />
<br />
Techradar.com actually got their hands on an early-production model and got the chance to run it through it's paces...they even made a phone call with it. <a href="http://www.techradar.com/us/reviews/phones/mobile-phones/samsung-galaxy-s4-1137602/review" target="_blank">Go to the review by clicking here. </a><br />
<br />
Should Apple be worried?<br />
<br />
Yes. Yes they should.</div>
Authorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07434693271115319736noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6746462917235638685.post-45566740450817384692013-03-11T10:25:00.003-05:002013-03-11T10:30:47.560-05:00Microsoft Surface Windows Tablet Review- Does this Microsoft product have the right "touch"?<span style="font-family: inherit;">My brother-in-law is something of a gadget hound. He is the family's go-to computer guy and whenever my college daughter has problems with her laptop at her faraway school, my wife and I often tell her "Call your uncle". </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">So, it was no surprise to discover he had recently taken delivery of the newest "it" tablet of the year so far- The Microsoft Surface Pro Windows 8 Pro 128 Gb Tablet. This awkwardly named product is one of the first originating from Seattle since the demise of the barely-known and underrated Zune HD media player- still <a href="http://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_sacat=0&_nkw=zune+player+hd&_sop=3" target="_blank">selling for nearly full price </a>two years after going out of production. </span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ9dubnop_Cj4y8Y22Uj-Mhk4FzT-9DkgVyjf1ANQujRD4bkv-iAUAn7KhTbnDoWrWNOKkNIS7ROKQqqSnLb6qxk7KbHHvU2lp5mJg6c5GV8YfX17t-0aiionRUqLbcOkIjfWuz55LJR4/s1600/Surface-RT.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ9dubnop_Cj4y8Y22Uj-Mhk4FzT-9DkgVyjf1ANQujRD4bkv-iAUAn7KhTbnDoWrWNOKkNIS7ROKQqqSnLb6qxk7KbHHvU2lp5mJg6c5GV8YfX17t-0aiionRUqLbcOkIjfWuz55LJR4/s400/Surface-RT.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Microsoft Surface<br />(betanews.com)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">A kind-of answer to the latest iteration of the iPad, the Surface takes a slightly different tack and uses a full-on version of the new Windows 8 optimized for touch users but with a dual personality</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> . Although MS won't fully admit it, think of the Surface as a small-ish laptop with a removable keyboard. The guts of the tablet have a memory that ranges from 32Gb to 128Gb on a SSD hard drive- no spinning disc means lightning quick access to stored memory plus much of the tablet's content is stored in the cloud anyway. The tablet boasts a full-size-computer-worthy i5 Intel processor, at least 4Gb of cache memory and high quality construction. It looks like pretty much any other tablet- black shiny glass with a keyboard/case cover. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">But how well does it work? One user said, <i>"</i><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 20px;"><i>I've had multiple downloads going, Netflix streaming HD movies, and MATLAB and Excel running all at once, and I didn't notice any significant lag." </i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 20px;">Also available for download is Microsoft Office 365, a full load software package with Word, Excel, Power Point, etc. that stores almost everything in the cloud. Both my brother-in-law and other user report no issues and great results with this program. I also saw my brother using a video editing program- notoriously taxing on any computer- without a hiccup. Also, because it is a tablet, many- if not all- of the thousands of Window tablet apps are also available for use.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 20px;">There are two levels of the Surface: the Sufrace Pro and the Surface RT. Pocketnowvideo.com has a video that explains the differences in great detail: </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/npkvqLMkWz4?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 20px;"><i>Low quality audio, high quality review</i></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 20px;">Is this a replacement for the traditionally powerful desktop computer? No, not yet. Desktops still offer more of everything, including ports for peripherals like cameras, external drives and other options. Plus, there's the convenience of using a 21-27" desk monitor that makes computing easier and less tiring for older eyes like mine. </span></span><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyMdV7LslMRVZdLh_AInW4aWIMgIO8FYgYr4J4zyrLvgdhsafBS6GP7T46TqLqyNZz08ogb4FXXG8yVfZ4rXtHhLIbSiig5GqU_lN06LyksjUG1qpfrRSKawfRJ5Kmjd8fmqQ51oqmgt4/s1600/Surface+PRO+RT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyMdV7LslMRVZdLh_AInW4aWIMgIO8FYgYr4J4zyrLvgdhsafBS6GP7T46TqLqyNZz08ogb4FXXG8yVfZ4rXtHhLIbSiig5GqU_lN06LyksjUG1qpfrRSKawfRJ5Kmjd8fmqQ51oqmgt4/s400/Surface+PRO+RT.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Is it a laptop or a tablet? Yes it is.<br />
(display-central.com) </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 20px;">But, for those seeking out a laptop, the Surface tablets are hard to beat. It can do anything else a good laptop can do, plus it can become a lightweight tablet with heavyweight capabilities. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 20px;">But...there's a catch. There had to be, didn't there? The price. Although entry level Surfaces cost no more than a full-sized iPad, the Surface Pro RT climbs north of $1,100. For that money, the<a href="http://www.apple.com/macbookair/" target="_blank"> Apple MacBook Air</a> becomes a possibility and that complicates things somewhat as the Air is a fine computer on its own with a better, permanently attached keyboard. But for enterprise users </span></span><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="line-height: 20px;">committed</span></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 20px;"> to the Windows platform or for those used to Windows -based software, there is no argument. The Windows Surface wins, hand down. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 20px;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 20px;">To see Amazon reviews of the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Microsoft-Surface-Pro-Windows-Tablet/product-reviews/B00BE5T2TA/ref=dp_top_cm_cr_acr_txt?ie=UTF8&showViewpoints=1" target="_blank">Microsoft Surface RT, go here</a>. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 20px;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 20px;">For the Microsoft corporate website on <a href="http://www.microsoft.com/Surface/en-US?WT.mc_id=cpc_US-en_google_mshh&WT.search=1&semid=ef_GGL_e_0mousfw3ap44s05kn223_15674583309&WT.search=1" target="_blank">the Surface, click here</a>. </span></span></span><br />
<br />Authorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07434693271115319736noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6746462917235638685.post-63474256959129825832013-02-20T09:42:00.001-06:002013-04-20T21:08:54.475-05:00Dude I Want That! The Strangest, Weirdest and Coolest Stuff for the Geek You Love. <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Generalizing is a dangerous act- it presupposes common traits among vastly different people and doesn't provide for personality differences, wants or needs.<br />
<br />
But, in the geek world, there are a few assumptions one can make in relative safety when speaking about the material wants of that geek-centric world:<br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>A state of the art computer or tablet</li>
<li>A cool smartphone</li>
<li>super-big HD TV</li>
<li>gadgets galore</li>
</ul>
<div>
It's the last bullet point on this list that raises the topic of today's post. As a rule, geeks love non-mainstream gadgets. Things that go ping, beep or flash laser lights. Often associated with geek culture icons like Star Wars, Star Trek or comic books, uber-geek nirvana is often strewn with little machines whose intended purpose is not immediately clear. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The shopping site <i>Dude!!! I Want That!</i> delivers to geeks in one place what they would otherwise spend hours looking for, have no idea where to find it (whatever "it" may be) or had no idea it existed in the first place. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Want a hover bike? Sure.</div>
<div>
Lollipops in the shape of a Star Wars Deathstar? Yup. </div>
<div>
Zombie Apocalypse Survival Kit? Right over here...</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6AHQVNoRe9YWWG6xfCwaCbWXfang-4fKIp_u7LsZ5HempNLGqJo5hKUddTzRI65ty3ZHvYIkzj5XYu1ecuPKSCVlDT485mSU4CgB8aVHPRsOFhiTekY7QBM6qooilJYA-A-XYMc3_vqU/s1600/presidential-monster-action-6584.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="333" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6AHQVNoRe9YWWG6xfCwaCbWXfang-4fKIp_u7LsZ5HempNLGqJo5hKUddTzRI65ty3ZHvYIkzj5XYu1ecuPKSCVlDT485mSU4CgB8aVHPRsOFhiTekY7QBM6qooilJYA-A-XYMc3_vqU/s400/presidential-monster-action-6584.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Presidential Monster Action Figures? They got 'em.<br />
(dudeiwantthat.com)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
The items range from the mildly interesting to the downright bizarre. It's obvious the audience for this website is overwhelmingly male as many of the items appeal to the prurient and salacious interests of the predominantly male geek culture. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-YQKS0IHNbxaOcoBIa3O07cvTqJKR9foYgWJqmHQMtzMPzn6cNItbmK_JhVRQYPgrUD2KYeZmLLw_ZoO23-fnCdrgjiUMYj4LqLtH9T1QU6ZhCW68Nx_F9Zmh9gIjMNnhkvcWxP677L0/s1600/spandex-catwoman-costume-2241.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="332" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-YQKS0IHNbxaOcoBIa3O07cvTqJKR9foYgWJqmHQMtzMPzn6cNItbmK_JhVRQYPgrUD2KYeZmLLw_ZoO23-fnCdrgjiUMYj4LqLtH9T1QU6ZhCW68Nx_F9Zmh9gIjMNnhkvcWxP677L0/s400/spandex-catwoman-costume-2241.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is a "Black Cat" costume. Don't know who that is?<br />
You obviously don't read comic books!<br />
(dudeiwantthat.com)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
Not to worry, most of the items are just plain cool to look at. Many items are reasonably priced for what they are and some are waaaay expensive as they are one-offs or super luxurious. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Think of this site as Amazon.com for geeks. Heck, it's just fun to browse through the offerings and imagine what it would be like to have a <a href="http://www.dudeiwantthat.com/autos/exotic/jet-turbine-powered-batmobile.asp" target="_blank">jet-powered Batmobile </a>in your driveway. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Go to <a href="http://www.dudeiwantthat.com/" target="_blank">Dude I Want That! here</a>. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Now, if you'll excuse me, the UPS guy is here with my <a href="http://www.dudeiwantthat.com/entertainment/sporting-goods/zombie-head-bowling-balls.asp" target="_blank">Zombie Head Bowling Ball.</a></div>
</div>
Authorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07434693271115319736noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6746462917235638685.post-69566707296360739102013-02-12T12:40:00.001-06:002013-02-12T12:40:23.301-06:00An Alternative to the iPod Touch- the Samsung Galaxy Media Player Review<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I check my reader stats from time to time and what strikes me as one of the most interesting factoids is that several of my older blog posts always seem to be in the top five for number of hits per month. Time after time, the articles that start with the phrase "An Alternative to..." always seem to be of consistent interest to people seeking out something else, something past the mainstream other don't consider.<br />
<br />
If you read the title of today's post, you'll see that I'm no fool (usually) and today's alternative product is a legitimate contender for the title of "iPod alternative". The Samsung Galaxy 4.0 Media Player. It looks just like a standard Samsung smart phone without the phone part and that's pretty much what it is. The Media Player sports a 4" screen, dual cameras and even GPS(!) as well as the Android operating system (but only runs Gingerbread, a three year old OS). <br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu5h1dhqyPI5vKTMxCTEsenK1LvCkn5v7d0BCir9yWCcZn58Brp9Nd_zpJwqF6z5CCOQDpLCL7B-xv71P67X1HhOlKPIaXgijUR3xb7LQMdo_O4NEUg_DdfbJo_yMg59Jiw_o-r-NaEqo/s1600/Samsung-Galaxy-Player-4.2-Image_thumb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="392" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu5h1dhqyPI5vKTMxCTEsenK1LvCkn5v7d0BCir9yWCcZn58Brp9Nd_zpJwqF6z5CCOQDpLCL7B-xv71P67X1HhOlKPIaXgijUR3xb7LQMdo_O4NEUg_DdfbJo_yMg59Jiw_o-r-NaEqo/s400/Samsung-Galaxy-Player-4.2-Image_thumb.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Samsung Galaxy Media Player<br />(Samsung.com)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
However, the best part is the price. Ipod Touch's can easily run north of $250 for the 32G model while the Samsung starts at $150 (street price) and can be expanded to as much as 64 gigs by adding a 32 gig micro SD card to the 32 gig version.<br />
<br />
So, how does it work? Based on the thousands of reviews posted online, it seems others agree that the player is an ideal "other choice" for those who have had it with the bugs and self-imposed limitations of iTunes. The reviews state the player is easy to use- especially with <a href="https://play.google.com/music/listen?u=0#start" target="_blank">Google Music</a>- and others also report using the player a type of poor-man's cell phone when paired with Skype (free calling!). There's is also the 100,000+ apps in the Google Play store with games, video players and other applications available to anyone with an Android OS system.<br />
<br />
The pros are:<br />
<br />
- Decent battery life<br />
- A micro SD slot to expand memory up to 32G<br />
- dual cameras<br />
- uses Flash to play videos<br />
- 100,000+ apps<br />
- good external speakers<br />
- GPS<br />
- Also available in 5" and 5.8" sizes<br />
- Price! Less than $150 online.<br />
<br />
Cons:<br />
<br />
- Older Android issue OS<br />
- far fewer accessories<br />
- screen not as sharp as iPod (ok, but not great)<br />
- Bland styling<br />
- Plastic construction<br />
- Managing MP3 files not as intuitive as iPod<br />
<br />
But nothing says as much as the opinions of others and hundreds of those regarding the Samsung Media Player can be found at <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Samsung-YP-GI1CB-XAA-4-2-Inch-Galaxy/product-reviews/B007SRNPPU/ref=dp_top_cm_cr_acr_txt?ie=UTF8&showViewpoints=1" target="_blank">Amazon.com by clicking here</a> and at <a href="http://www.ebay.com/ctg/Samsung-Galaxy-Player-5-0-White-8-GB-Digital-Media-Player-/109370806#UserReviews" target="_blank">Ebay.com by clicking here</a>.<br />
<br />
If my stats are telling me anything, they say consumers are starting to seek out choices beyond the mainstream that deliver just as much satisfaction as the most popular one and if Samsung can update the player with the latest software- at least the Jellybean OS- then Apple better start working overtime with an iPod Touch replacement.<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Authorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07434693271115319736noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6746462917235638685.post-7861604633404836572013-01-29T10:57:00.000-06:002013-01-29T10:57:42.384-06:00The Google Map App for Apple and Android Phones- Find Yourself, for Free!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
When I first started in TV news, we went to unfamiliar addresses every day- a fire here, a bank robbery there, ribbon cutting somewhere else. And in the back seat of every station car I ever drove was the same thing: An old, dog-eared map book of the town with the most-used pages missing. So, if we wanted to go to 123 Elm St., we had to regularly refer to the appropriate page again and again.<br />
<br />
After 2007 or so, GPS came into affordable use and, as a manager, I saw to it that each news car had one on the dash. But this presented a theft and obsolescence hazard as the units aged and was only a temporary solution. A few years later, we were issued new cell phones (Androids) and it didn't take too long to discover the phones had GPS built in! Now, we could find not only numbered addresses, but simply names was often enough to obtain the correct location of where we needed to be, i.e., "Find Chicago City Hall". The app came from Google was was imaginatively called "Google Maps"<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIyeSKgYZicb_PkLijPO0M-ei8BWCWgVVDES00i4r2wtu25CDkpd3noNKIvWsG4H0LaqnWhxQPvrZE0HSuPfteJXLSG6jo-vrTtNdkmpI0xxFXIYvNf19YLYTQqdu_SXqDhHil4YRnQao/s1600/GOOGLE+MAP+EXAMPLE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIyeSKgYZicb_PkLijPO0M-ei8BWCWgVVDES00i4r2wtu25CDkpd3noNKIvWsG4H0LaqnWhxQPvrZE0HSuPfteJXLSG6jo-vrTtNdkmpI0xxFXIYvNf19YLYTQqdu_SXqDhHil4YRnQao/s400/GOOGLE+MAP+EXAMPLE.jpg" width="253" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Simple, clear, easy<br />(google.com)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Apple thought this was a great idea too and eventually banned the Google Maps App from iTunes and introduced their own version for the iPhone and it failed badly.<br />
<br />
Really, really badly.<br />
<br />
Users were sent to the wrong location, often to remote locations, far from the intended destination. See <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2012/09/27/technology/personaltech/apples-new-maps-app-is-upgraded-but-full-of-snags-review.html?smid=tw-nytimesbusiness&_r=0" target="_blank">one man's story here</a>. And the trouble was not just random. It happened to people all over the world. And no one was happy.<br />
<br />
Apple was slow to respond, although they did allow Google Maps back into iTunes and since then, the Google app has been a runaway hit. At no cost, Google maps offers the following features:<br />
<br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>You can search by voice ("Find Candlestick Park")</li>
<li>You can pick either graphical or voice directions or both</li>
<li>When you arrive, a street view of your destination pops up, so you can confirm the correct location</li>
<li>You can use Google Earth to see a satellite view of your spot</li>
<li>Traffic jams are highlighted so you may avoid them</li>
</ul>
<div>
Although most of these features also come with just about any GPS device, let's remember that Google Maps is <u>FREE</u>, not $125-$250. It's also updated reguarly and customizable to your unique needs and preferences. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcAbzxlGNQ_PYPDXx8PlQsXvX0WbQ4_W4IJ9hOrX0HQSzKV7j3qlFUvCKlNCAx0LzkQgBwmxaWoR21_O_0fBzO-hn9hwyDDx8rcW9UZ96iMPnyJebJiWAEA5acagqu-7fK39xBzVIRN6I/s1600/GOOGLE+MAP+GOLDEN+GATE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcAbzxlGNQ_PYPDXx8PlQsXvX0WbQ4_W4IJ9hOrX0HQSzKV7j3qlFUvCKlNCAx0LzkQgBwmxaWoR21_O_0fBzO-hn9hwyDDx8rcW9UZ96iMPnyJebJiWAEA5acagqu-7fK39xBzVIRN6I/s400/GOOGLE+MAP+GOLDEN+GATE.jpg" width="253" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">When you arrive, you get a photo of what you're<br />supposed to see outside your car window.<br />(google.com)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
So what's not to like? Well, you must have a cell phone signal to obtain the directional info and images for the phone (not true of dedicated GPS devices) and the app is something of a battery hog (because of the constant data stream) so I recommend you plug your phone into your car's power supply all of the time- Monoprice.com <a href="http://www.monoprice.com/products/search.asp?keyword=iphone+car+charger" target="_blank">has inexpensive ones here</a>. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
To see what others think of the app, Edmunds.com has posted an article where they use Google Maps and provide a short opinion piece on it. Click <a href="http://www.edmunds.com/jeep/wrangler/2012/long-term-road-test/2012-jeep-wrangler-sport-with-google-maps-who-needs-factory-navigation.html" target="_blank">here to see it</a>. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
To see Google's home page about Google Maps, <a href="http://www.google.com/mobile/maps/" target="_blank">click here</a>. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
And don't get lost doing it!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
Authorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07434693271115319736noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6746462917235638685.post-56011203717866331582013-01-25T10:28:00.000-06:002013-01-25T10:28:16.496-06:00The Galaxy S4- What's Next and Why the Name is a Bad Omen.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I don't know much about physics and what little I do know comes from watching "The Big Bang Theory". But, I do understand momentum and for business, momentum can be a powerful thing. For nearly the past decade, Apple has enjoyed that business momentum with the iPhone. For years, nothing the competition put out could touch it for looks, operational simplicity and elegance. It sold like crazy, with lines forming days before the debut of each iteration. But, lately, it seems Apple has slowed somewhat and the competition is even in many ways. In fact, the introduction of the iPhone5 was met with a thundering chorus of "meh". <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Sr54VHgB3tHc4RFS35Fb1Vt4lAkbG4z3YHtiKOpT-kJY-sya88M2AeDEC3R-SSiLjgStdVKBzC58FcpUGiDPxRKyb8Msg3RB5qD5BJR1002rlzVbxMvbhdFMkIEBdk7UQ7nbbiAubf0/s1600/iphone-5-thumbs-up-thumbs-down-vote-640x480.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Sr54VHgB3tHc4RFS35Fb1Vt4lAkbG4z3YHtiKOpT-kJY-sya88M2AeDEC3R-SSiLjgStdVKBzC58FcpUGiDPxRKyb8Msg3RB5qD5BJR1002rlzVbxMvbhdFMkIEBdk7UQ7nbbiAubf0/s320/iphone-5-thumbs-up-thumbs-down-vote-640x480.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hot or Not?<br />(technobuffalo.com)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
But business, like momentum itself, cannot stand still and Samsung has been gaining on the company from Cupertino with offerings like the Galaxy Note 2, and the Galaxy S3. In fact, Samsung was one of the only cell phone makers to gain market share in the US during 2012. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The S3 has been out for some time now and has established a reputation as a fast, easy to use Android based phone that many prefer to the iPhone itself. In the tech world, everything ages quickly and soon we can look forward to the introduction of the Samsung Galaxy S4. And eerily enough, there is a group of fanboys out there drooling at the idea of this next generation of iPhone competition. In fact, CNET has started a very iPhone-like rumor roundup for the S4 and what it might have to battle the iPhone for smartphone supremacy in 2013. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-6tUlRRM2D-QD7xqyaTEZN-VO5cz6Um7uqxbNIBYGbDNSadg0R8VleOgHTV47zavDymZ-Nr4uc-JImPSNgTwW9jQWQtlM15pUlqLjFxhpNLnnLeIIrktfm8PbaFU4mMY1W9dLujFRKi8/s1600/Samsung-Galaxy-Concept-Phone-1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-6tUlRRM2D-QD7xqyaTEZN-VO5cz6Um7uqxbNIBYGbDNSadg0R8VleOgHTV47zavDymZ-Nr4uc-JImPSNgTwW9jQWQtlM15pUlqLjFxhpNLnnLeIIrktfm8PbaFU4mMY1W9dLujFRKi8/s400/Samsung-Galaxy-Concept-Phone-1.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Is this leaked photo the next Galaxy S4? </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
Some of the rumors include a 5 inch screen, wireless charging and a 13(!) megpixel camera. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
For the latest on the S4, go to CNET's <a href="http://reviews.cnet.com/8301-19736_7-57565536-251/samsung-galaxy-s4-rumor-roundup/" target="_blank">Galaxy S4 Rumor Roundup here</a>. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
To find out the cultural reason the S4 may not be called the S4, read the <a href="http://www.digitaltrends.com/mobile/samsung-galaxy-s4-rumored-for-an-april-release/" target="_blank">Digital Trends post at their site here. </a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The momentum is building for Samsung right now and the impending introduction of the S4- rumored to be this April- only means more attention for Samsung, and at Apple's expense. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
However, funny thing about momentum- it can shift direction instantly and Apple is working hard to see that it rolls toward Silicon Valley again ASAP. Competition is a great thing and when it heats up like this, the winners are the consumers like you and me. </div>
</div>
Authorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07434693271115319736noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6746462917235638685.post-32585245720326199342013-01-16T10:38:00.001-06:002013-01-16T10:38:16.799-06:00The Best of CES 2013. Electronic Heaven for Gadget Geeks. <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I swear, one day I will make the pilgrimage to Las Vegas- not for the casinos, not for the shows and not for the glitz, glamor or gambling.<br />
<br />
No, I will make my trip to the desert of southern Nevada for one reason- the massive <b><u>C</u></b>onsumer <b><u>E</u></b>lectronics <u><b>S</b></u>how. So large only Las Vegas can accommodate the attendees, the CES is the annual presentation of what's new and what's coming to the U.S. in the form of electronics, accessories, computers, phones and more.<br />
<br />
Companies of all sizes present the latest in their offerings for the coming year and tens of thousands of attendees flock to the booths to grope, pinch, inspect and otherwise drool over a seemingly unlimited number of products.<br />
<br />
Some of the products will be a hit, some will never be seen again and some will be vaporware (constantly promised but never seen on the open market). Newly introduced televisions like the recent 4k advances are very popular. Also, video games, tablets, cell phones, wrist watches, software and even kitchen ovens premiere here for the gadget-hungry public.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg91xmMy5Q-EYSovVO91jfPAqFWcK0-rZCqlWnCtF-aMiz1VW7ORMYQfA4N6tO9JI5G8VgilBKtaEqPpAAuut_jG4ytIl9XBJhdgdB0E3SdlqW9z3oqwJAKth261ZgA_8vqDVksWkNRmO4/s1600/cool+watch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg91xmMy5Q-EYSovVO91jfPAqFWcK0-rZCqlWnCtF-aMiz1VW7ORMYQfA4N6tO9JI5G8VgilBKtaEqPpAAuut_jG4ytIl9XBJhdgdB0E3SdlqW9z3oqwJAKth261ZgA_8vqDVksWkNRmO4/s400/cool+watch.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This watch will make people beg you for the time.<br />(verge.com)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The media coverage for this event is also massive. Press from the around the globe descend to have a peep at everything and they report on what they see, like and want. In fact, the show "opens" the week before just to accommodate the press before the real show opens to the general public. The good news is that if you can't make the CES show yourself, there's no shortage of journalists to show you the hottest in... well, everything!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj111Breg77dGC68h1J3nItzcXv1ymuldHR-IowD9XKg9MPZNZtfDRE44iHgbOP367mB72KXo5iBzh7EbGSQ5vJyD0b6LsrnxErszrfLlFDc_aZNee9u8NNyglxUCJe_vZD1CDOw4UhYag/s1600/IPOTTY.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj111Breg77dGC68h1J3nItzcXv1ymuldHR-IowD9XKg9MPZNZtfDRE44iHgbOP367mB72KXo5iBzh7EbGSQ5vJyD0b6LsrnxErszrfLlFDc_aZNee9u8NNyglxUCJe_vZD1CDOw4UhYag/s320/IPOTTY.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I said everything!<br />(unknown)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<span style="text-align: left;">For a great look at some of the best products at the show,</span><a href="http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/14/ces-2013-best-of-show-roundup/" style="text-align: left;" target="_blank"> engadget.com</a><span style="text-align: left;"> , </span><a href="http://www.wired.com/gadgetlab/2013/01/the-best-of-ces-2013/" style="text-align: left;" target="_blank">wired.com</a><span style="text-align: left;"> and </span><a href="http://ubergizmo.com/" style="text-align: left;">ubergizmo.com</a><span style="text-align: left;"> </span><span style="text-align: left;">what they think is the future consumer available electronics for the next year. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<span style="text-align: left;">And remember, look for me on the floor next year!</span></div>
</div>
Authorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07434693271115319736noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6746462917235638685.post-2090607335654130262013-01-02T09:30:00.000-06:002013-01-03T08:37:53.562-06:00The Ultimate iPhone Case for Protection from Shock, Water...and You. The Lifeproof iPhone case.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Happy Holidays!<br />
<br />
You looked under the tree this past Christmas morning and you found that jolly Ol' Saint Nick left you a shiny new iPhone. As you hold it your hands and lovingly caress its delicate back and admire the all-glass screen in front, it slowly dawns on you this wonder of technology will easily and quickly shatter into a pile of expensive, useless circuits if you don't take some protective action with an aftermarket case...and soon.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcLA7kEJ0QlODeMI78flfDc4sYwUqaPJJHD1fAefM0gFDX8bBeJ7SOZbyXDQgI4pf0cyAuYib1T8wWE20nEo3vrR7nQp_qhKCsMnFM9d2TsboLXsyV7erFmeFqoBpfRoWsagmQkM2ACx8/s1600/iphone+shattered.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcLA7kEJ0QlODeMI78flfDc4sYwUqaPJJHD1fAefM0gFDX8bBeJ7SOZbyXDQgI4pf0cyAuYib1T8wWE20nEo3vrR7nQp_qhKCsMnFM9d2TsboLXsyV7erFmeFqoBpfRoWsagmQkM2ACx8/s400/iphone+shattered.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oh, dear...a case would have probably prevented this heartache.<br />
( cleaningupmylife.blogspot.com) </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Simply finding a case is not the problem. Cases for the iphone are everywhere. But the best protective iphone case just might be the one from a company called Lifeproof.<br />
<br />
Aptly named, the people at Lifeproof seem to be a might obsessed with creating iPhone cases that can take a beating, a dunking and a dropping without the phone even noticing (if phones could notice things, that is). The case is made specifically to exceed US military specifications for dust, shock and water durability. In fact, Lifeproof boasts the phone can be used underwater with no issues and tests each case to ensure that no H2O makes it into your expensive new gift.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivibfd3fEwyTX7ZRnKJxD9960BPO9BiAn-4iJ97-nXe1SmNImqpeQF8iAVcjV9fGnOBdpJL9k6_43tLpeiX7twBGXT5GPhUw5DwOlsUVr3viFBbcxnvcvmIusjD7IhS32OLaPSQauWjkA/s1600/lifeproof-pic1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivibfd3fEwyTX7ZRnKJxD9960BPO9BiAn-4iJ97-nXe1SmNImqpeQF8iAVcjV9fGnOBdpJL9k6_43tLpeiX7twBGXT5GPhUw5DwOlsUVr3viFBbcxnvcvmIusjD7IhS32OLaPSQauWjkA/s400/lifeproof-pic1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Proof the Lifeproof case works...or this guy is nuts.<br />
(extremestorms.com)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The case itself is quite thin- less than 1/16" is added to the phone and, to my eye, gives the phone a sleek industrial kind of look I find appealing. It comes in a variety of colors and really doesn't appear to be the bank-account saving armor for your phone that it is. The case was originally designed for military, police, fire and other hard-life uses, but since it comes in pink too, I'll assume Lifeproof sees teenage American girls as a rough user (as a father of a teenage American girl, I agree).<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje1GQ_vlBn9fHtOrhhNLhyphenhyphenVzrHBV4eAG8G0FCE0heZXY1vtYLEVjd0lUlazkp6emIf228PlBwbUVDNBWKq6sdKZX8eXCd0xR1XFvGkjmweF9iFV3ZC8hVClRgUhPgNPdTgmeuBwol87EM/s1600/iphone_case_feature+LIFEPROOF.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="332" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje1GQ_vlBn9fHtOrhhNLhyphenhyphenVzrHBV4eAG8G0FCE0heZXY1vtYLEVjd0lUlazkp6emIf228PlBwbUVDNBWKq6sdKZX8eXCd0xR1XFvGkjmweF9iFV3ZC8hVClRgUhPgNPdTgmeuBwol87EM/s640/iphone_case_feature+LIFEPROOF.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I though you deserved to see a Lifeproof case that wasn't wet, dusty or dropped.<br />
(Lifeproof.com)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Lifeproof also offers accessories for their cases including armbands, a belt clip, power dock adapters and something called "Liferaft". Looking much like its namesake, the Liferaft is just that- a large, orange collar that grips and surrounds the Lifeproof case and allows it to float and be found if dropped out of a boat or off a bridge or something similar. It also adds significant protection to an already strong system. However, the additional bulk is also significant. But for those who really need floating protection, nothing else will do.<br />
<br />
Cons? As I read the 2,600+ reviews on Amazon, a few complaints seemed to become routine. Most, however, seem to be because of the necessary design and construction requirements of such a protective system:<br />
<br />
- The power port is an <u>extremely </u>tight fit (needed for water tightness) and using anything other than Apple OEM power plugs might be an issue.<br />
<br />
- Sound quality from the earpiece can be an issue as some users report slightly reduced ability to hear sound clearly. Some say the sound is not affected.<br />
<br />
- The headphone jack uses an easily lost plug that is not attached to the case.<br />
<br />
- Installation requires careful attention to the instructions to be performed properly.<br />
<br />
- Somewhat expensive (around $50 US)<br />
<br />
Other than these issues, most users appreciate the stylish and rugged appearance, ability to walk around worry free and more comfortable knowing the investment they made will be just fine after encounters with rain, tile floors and life.<br />
<br />
To see a review of the Lifeproof case, go to <a href="http://kitup.military.com/2013/01/phone-cases-from-lifeproof.html#more-22511" target="_blank">Kitup! a military equipment website,</a> where they review the case and the Liferaft too.<br />
<br />
For the Amazon reviews, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/LifeProof-Case-iPhone-4S-Packaging/product-reviews/B005WF9OHI/ref=dp_top_cm_cr_acr_txt?ie=UTF8&showViewpoints=1" target="_blank">good and bad, go here</a>.<br />
<br />
Finally, the <a href="http://www.lifeproof.com/shop/us_en/iphone-4s-4/lifeproof-limited-edition-tactical-iphone-cases-for-the-iphone-4s-4" target="_blank">Lifeproof website is located here</a>.<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Authorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07434693271115319736noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6746462917235638685.post-38495813694966274012012-12-11T10:08:00.000-06:002012-12-11T10:08:22.894-06:00Greg Proops- The Smartest Man in the World Podcast. The Thinking man's way to Laugh<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Podcasting is not as popular as it should be and that is a shame.<br />
<br />
I try to explain podcasts to my friends ("It's like grown up radio without commercials") and all I get back are glassy-eyed stares. I really try to explain the eco-system that allows niche podcasts to flourish alongside more mainstream offerings most of us are familiar with and used to hearing like Adam Carolla, Leo Laporte and The Mike O'Meara Show.<br />
<br />
Occasionally, there comes along a podcast that straddles the line between mainstream and odd, challenges us intellectually and blows up conventional thinking with the dynamite of dadaism and off the wall bizarre. Greg Proops is just that kind of podcast host.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-14HB0nPrgVwFQ_uUfsZQWyujjmDsFnsqTPfQG1GUdgqsrbJBPWi1VbP9KWT6nDfUbptex_aLqtl41-odrJbSjMcSFrK-EWlZpg9MIfxENsG2Wc_7L2okGAWuetMLTz5kxF0XeKvn_9k/s1600/PROOPS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="307" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-14HB0nPrgVwFQ_uUfsZQWyujjmDsFnsqTPfQG1GUdgqsrbJBPWi1VbP9KWT6nDfUbptex_aLqtl41-odrJbSjMcSFrK-EWlZpg9MIfxENsG2Wc_7L2okGAWuetMLTz5kxF0XeKvn_9k/s400/PROOPS.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Laughing and thinking was never so much fun.<br />
(greg-proops.net)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Perhaps best known for his regular appearances on both the British and US versions of "Whose Line is it Anyway?", Proops is a bohemian intellectual, raging against convention with a nuclear fueled wit. Normally recorded onstage with an audience that tries to be as hip and bon vivant as he, Proops rattles off humor, pop references, quotes obscure poetry and lances the establishment with a machine-gun delivery that sometimes derails in a deep gorge of what-the-hell-is-he-talking-about?<br />
<br />
Overall, the effect is fantastically overpowering. I somehow feel smarter myself as I understand his Satchel Paige reference or follow along as he dissects Hollywood movies. Is there a point? Usually not one that I can establish, except to have fun on a smarter plane than most other broadcasts.<br />
<br />
Proops doesn't talk down to his audience, but expects them to keep up intellectually. But that's OK with me because I enjoy a host who challenges my intellect and helps me to look at topics with a new view.<br />
<br />
Proops also liberally laces his diatribes with references to drugs, alcohol and adult language, so this isn't for those with innocent sensibilities, but if you're seeking out something that is different, energetic and appeals to the brainiac in all of us, then The Smartest Man in the World Podcast might be the next thing you down load today. You can find Proops' show on <a href="http://www.apple.com/itunes/affiliates/download/" target="_blank">iTunes</a> or Zune or by going to his <a href="http://www.gregproops.com/blog/smartest-man-in-the-world-podcast/" target="_blank">website by clicking here</a>.<br />
<br />
You're welcome.</div>
Authorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07434693271115319736noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6746462917235638685.post-10160565897082847112012-12-05T09:18:00.000-06:002012-12-05T09:18:38.325-06:00The Google Chromebook Review. The Price of Being cheap Comes at a Cost. <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
There comes a point where being cheap costs too much to be practical.<br />
<br />
The Google Chromebook is a case in point. At $199, the cost certainly seems to be cash friendly. But, exactly what is the Google Chromebook and why should you consider it for your home?<br />
<br />
In short, the Chromebook does one thing: access the internet via Google's Chrome browser. There is no word processing program, games or other software, per se. Just Chrome and only Chrome. Once the computer boots up (in a fast ten seconds), Chrome appears and you can access online content via wifi (a more expensive Chromebook- $449- provides 3G access).<br />
<br />
However, you can still do word processing, spreadsheets and other apps via Chrome using Googles vast online selection of products like Google Documents, that stores your written work in the cloud. While this anchors you to a wifi connection to do any work, it also means that work is available at any computer with a connection to the internet.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxnBhHrmdY9Bali4a5dRknqbSYKLs1c9YD1Q98uk4t4BkB4n3vxZe3W2M7_zTiUKuPnSMBiYn9-NOEKeSp4HqaQZ7mrn1sqmcpGSDcmE6ID2qLfp7Ph-yqcZx0i-F4WmyHM2gE5zAYQ7s/s1600/Google-Chromebook.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="231" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxnBhHrmdY9Bali4a5dRknqbSYKLs1c9YD1Q98uk4t4BkB4n3vxZe3W2M7_zTiUKuPnSMBiYn9-NOEKeSp4HqaQZ7mrn1sqmcpGSDcmE6ID2qLfp7Ph-yqcZx0i-F4WmyHM2gE5zAYQ7s/s400/Google-Chromebook.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">How much is computing worth to you?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Also, the Googleverse contains thousands of other apps, themes and bits of downloadable to make the Chromebook your own. Each user can also customize their version of the Chrome experience under their individual sign-on, so my eight-year old's Hello Kitty theme doesn't clash with my football background.<br />
<br />
My suggestion would be not to use the Chromebook as your primary computer, but as your secondary one. It has some major limitations that prevents me from recommending it as a serious computing appliance for heavy, major use. But as a surfing device for casual use, I could see it proving to be a useful gadget. At $199, I think you couldn't really ask it to do much more.<br />
<br />
To read a more in depth review, go to<a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/google-chromebook-review-2012-10" target="_blank"> businessinsider.com</a> and for a more technical (and positive) review, <a href="http://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2012/11/review-samsungs-new-arm-chromebook-gets-by-without-intel-inside/" target="_blank">arstechnica.com takes a look at this system</a> you can buy today from<a href="http://www.google.com/intl/en/chrome/devices/#utm_campaign=en&utm_source=en-ha-na-us-bkws&utm_medium=ha" target="_blank"> Google by clicking here</a>.<br />
<br />
Is this something that fits your needs? I don't know, but if it does, the good news is it won't cost much to find out. </div>
Authorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07434693271115319736noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6746462917235638685.post-17204757747423974042012-11-29T09:36:00.000-06:002012-11-29T09:36:59.474-06:00And Now for Something Completely Different (from the iPhone)- the Nokia Lumina 920 Review <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
People are sheep. Even though we'd all like to think we're rugged individualists and our own person, fact is, most of us are not so unique, very different or like to move away from the middle ground. <div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The same goes for smart phones. I asked my mother why she bought an iPhone. Her answer was as revealing as it was unsurprising, "Because that's what everyone else has." She felt safe making that choice.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
And that's the issue for some people when it comes to smartphones. Many don't want the same phone everyone else has. While they do want a powerful, capable device able to perform all the functions of an iPhone, they seek out the different, the unusual and the unique. Even the Android operating system is not enough for these trailblazers- they're looking for a more out-there solution without sacrificing all of the conveniences the mainstream phones offer. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
For many, <a href="http://www.nokia.com/us-en/products/lumia/" target="_blank">the Nokia Lumina 920 </a>offers them the opportunity to use a robust, powerful and creative operating system while still rebelling against the mainstream user base. The secret is, though, that the 920 uses an operating system from the most mainstream of tech companies- Microsoft. The flagship of the Microsoft Windows Phone 8 system, the Lumina 920 is the equal of any of the top tier offerings from Apple or any of the Android phone makers. Available in a rainbow of bright, "look at me!" colors, the 920 seems tailor made for those who seek out different choices for themselves. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVofBmhhAUCrHSlmxR0ZhUnec6eItzQ2fPMngFupqVdMus-U3ACWlxv2C4E-BGjcpH4_3Pb9l32g4-C0H-Xui0RjUGz7ETEdlGapeex_hrbXjwv9l6X5mJMGc-KCrJRK8gnzdPFy7EJM0/s1600/lumina+920.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVofBmhhAUCrHSlmxR0ZhUnec6eItzQ2fPMngFupqVdMus-U3ACWlxv2C4E-BGjcpH4_3Pb9l32g4-C0H-Xui0RjUGz7ETEdlGapeex_hrbXjwv9l6X5mJMGc-KCrJRK8gnzdPFy7EJM0/s400/lumina+920.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">For the rebel in all of us, the Nokia Lumina 920<br />(courtesy: telegraph.co.uk)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Neither light nor thin, the Lumina 920 nevertheless surprises with its square but rounded shape and big bright screen. Battery life seems to be average, but I think that most of use have learned to plug in and charge at any opportunity by this point in the tech evolution of the cellphone regardless of manufacturer. The camera is a delight with vibrant colors, a fast shutter and the ability to easily share your life with others. Slashgear.com did a full review and <a href="http://www.slashgear.com/att-nokia-lumia-920-review-03255516/" target="_blank">their look at this different offering can be found by clicking here.</a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
There has been grumblings online with some complaining that the WP8 system offers "only" <a href="http://www.zdnet.com/microsoft-100000-windows-8-apps-will-be-available-by-february-7000005458/" target="_blank">100,000 apps</a>. Over time, I have found that I tend to use the same 8-10 apps over and over again only adding one or removing one here or there occasionally, so I find this complaint to be unfounded and silly. All of the major OS's have tens of thousands of apps none of us will ever want, need or use. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
So which OS do you get? Go for the Apple OS and get 1,000,000 apps and all of the accessories available anywhere? Go Android and feel safe and snug? Or do you feel like a rebel and want to have some thing no one else does? </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
If the answer is the Nokia Lumina 920, you might still be a sheep in some ways, but you'd be the one with a Mohawk.<br /><div>
<br /></div>
<div>
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</div>
</div>
Authorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07434693271115319736noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6746462917235638685.post-24012595121181204782012-11-14T10:29:00.002-06:002012-11-20T09:17:54.527-06:00Apple iPod Nano reviews. Is the 7th time a charm?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So, your kid is telling you she wants a new iPod. But the iPod Touch goes for as much as $395.00. I can almost hear my bank account crying from the pain of monetary withdrawal. Don't feel bad- kids don't feel your pain.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">But, not to worry- some tech-challenged folks aren't aware Apple offers more than the iPod Touch when it comes to an excellent choice in MP3 players. The seventh generation iPod Nano has just debuted on the scene with some new and not so new features sure to please your child on Christmas morning for much less cash out of your pocket. </span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIaFhNO2F2AoI62MhNxpDBRmTXEcGFPARB7gDGOD3fE9pXAyThJUDG_GJ7nBlJcMtYG5ttoXRGQUzRAJZb-CYyntjxLbRkunVhTPkBPrJtPh5dpEvYea3NHzZ-fQh2Ee1c4Ymm31QMyY4/s1600/apple+nano+2012+hand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIaFhNO2F2AoI62MhNxpDBRmTXEcGFPARB7gDGOD3fE9pXAyThJUDG_GJ7nBlJcMtYG5ttoXRGQUzRAJZb-CYyntjxLbRkunVhTPkBPrJtPh5dpEvYea3NHzZ-fQh2Ee1c4Ymm31QMyY4/s400/apple+nano+2012+hand.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">The size and new headphones are both improvements</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">(apple.com)</span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; text-align: left;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">About twice the size of the previous generation Nano- look at a standard business card and you'll get the idea of the new size- the latest iteration from the company in Cupertino has a much easier to navigate interface with selections for music, podcasts, photos, FM radio and video. Yes, you can watch video on the 2.5" screen, but would you want to? </span></span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Apple includes Bluetooth with this new offering which allows users to wirelessly transmit audio to Bluetooth receivers now found in newer cars, stereo speakers and headphones. In other words, the Nano can sit in your pocket, happily playing audio to your headphones without a wire stretching from the pocket to your head. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">While all of this added tech and improvements is nice, how does it all work together as a package? Turns out, it's pretty good. For $149, you get your choice of <span style="background-color: white;"><span style="line-height: 23px;">dark gray, silver, purple, pink, yellow, green, blue, and red and 16 </span><span style="line-height: 23px;">Gigabytes of memory- enough to hold thousands of songs and pictures. Also, Apple includes a new design of earplugs meant to fit better with greater comfort. </span></span></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfoCl5RAug5ceOPjLtjb9Rep6DRQ2toW3qri2amDnrm86nUKkawx1JKmhehdDKkGA5UgNwOQNPOR_VXAnIMSiWHZODyZhz07pY5RIebBVVm3AZnc7Vet6AVX7DDYzfz9g5eOi0bLg7ZNE/s1600/apple+nano+2012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="183" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfoCl5RAug5ceOPjLtjb9Rep6DRQ2toW3qri2amDnrm86nUKkawx1JKmhehdDKkGA5UgNwOQNPOR_VXAnIMSiWHZODyZhz07pY5RIebBVVm3AZnc7Vet6AVX7DDYzfz9g5eOi0bLg7ZNE/s400/apple+nano+2012.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Color and sound meet</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">(Apple.com)</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 23px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 23px;">One item that might cause some confusion is the Lightning Connector. Apple has changed the data/power connector on all iPods to a entirely different design incompatible with previous versions. To continue using older charging systems like clock radios or other legacy docking systems, you must buy an </span><span style="line-height: 23px;">adapter</span><span style="line-height: 23px;"> commonly available at electronics stores, but get them now as they will be scarce for a time after the holidays due to high demand. </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 23px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 23px;">iPod Nanos are sold just about everywhere and the prices never really change, so buy them wherever you find them because Apple doesn't discount their products and the price you find at store A will be the exact same at store B. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 23px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 23px;">Need to know more? PCMag.com looked over the Nano when it came out and have something to say about how well it works. <a href="http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2410757,00.asp" target="_blank">Click here to read it</a>. <a href="http://www.theverge.com/2012/10/10/3481926/apple-ipod-nano-review-2012" target="_blank">Theverge.com did the same and they have a slightly different take on the Nano</a> but both agree that for less than 150 dollars, there's not a better choice out there.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 23px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 23px;">I think your kid would agree.</span></div>
</div>
Authorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07434693271115319736noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6746462917235638685.post-15120191541191092152012-07-30T16:13:00.001-05:002012-07-30T16:16:21.633-05:00Amazon Kindle Fire vs Google Nexus 7. Which is better?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Last year, Amazon shocked the gadget loving world when they debuted the Amazon Kindle Fire, small form factor computer tablet with a 7" screen, 8G of storage and the ability play games, read books and playback movies on demand. Amazon offered all of this for the small form factor price of less than $200(US).<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1AmnowinewYRzm9BqzFyJz8p4sqgVsWSHWsHTrgST1v4FFkfGbgsxlqJEobqGbutUWzkwXddQ8XQ499BMlVzmxP5yCzp-riWotvNu5-e74DqMvwrzpFyBP90T0kMGguab5II-Ed6tuQ0/s1600/kindle+fire+amazon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1AmnowinewYRzm9BqzFyJz8p4sqgVsWSHWsHTrgST1v4FFkfGbgsxlqJEobqGbutUWzkwXddQ8XQ499BMlVzmxP5yCzp-riWotvNu5-e74DqMvwrzpFyBP90T0kMGguab5II-Ed6tuQ0/s200/kindle+fire+amazon.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kindle Fire- Not bad at all.<br />
(amazon.com)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
At first, Amazon barely broke even on each Fire sold and made a bet it would make a profit from apps, movies books and other items purchased from Amazon itself. Now, the parts used to make the Fire have dropped in price and Amazon is actually making a modest profit on each Fire it sells plus the app store money it banks every day.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs5Qz2hq8cM9iR_emNcUW5NAhyrD9bOcoOBXAYYyMqUlRS3iu3LyL_IN7uHJKusMLgiPV3WqT_8bH5Vq6-Yis2utQ5nMgziZSvF0rjDYkXY_b8vw_4AsDfxopPQU_h0KzF-dJ8ePn47G4/s1600/google-nexus-7-pictures-preview-0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs5Qz2hq8cM9iR_emNcUW5NAhyrD9bOcoOBXAYYyMqUlRS3iu3LyL_IN7uHJKusMLgiPV3WqT_8bH5Vq6-Yis2utQ5nMgziZSvF0rjDYkXY_b8vw_4AsDfxopPQU_h0KzF-dJ8ePn47G4/s320/google-nexus-7-pictures-preview-0.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Nexus 7- Looking good.<br />
(pocket-lint.com)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Not to be outdone, Google has now put its Nexus 7 on the market to compete with the Fire. Same size screen, but with the guts of its more powerful, and larger (10.1") competitors that allows it to process video, audio and other data more quickly. The Nexus 7 also has a better screen with higher definition and uses the latest iteration of the Android operating system called "Jellybean". Plus, Google sells the Nexus 7 for the same low price as the Fire- $200.<br />
<br />
Uh-oh. two competitors for the exact same price? This looks like a battle royal of 7" tablets! How do you, as a consumer, make a smart buying decision when choosing between these two mini-tablets? Which one is the better choice? Which one is best for you and finally, which one should you buy?<br />
<br />
<a href="http://wired.com/">Wired.com</a> has compared these two tablets and has the scoop on both and what they offer to customers looking for a quality experience in the smaller tablet form.<br />
<a href="http://www.wired.com/gadgetlab/2012/07/nexus-7-will-turn-a-profit-for-google-and-asus/" target="_blank">Go there now to read the article and decide for yourself.</a><br />
<br />
Oh- one more thing...<br />
<br />
Rumors are strong in the computer world Apple will soon introduce a 7" tablet of their own. A mini-iPad would really cause a ruckus and turn the market on its ear.<br />
<br />
Things are heating up! Stay tuned...</div>
Authorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07434693271115319736noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6746462917235638685.post-1748641128480274992012-07-20T11:37:00.001-05:002012-07-20T11:37:34.179-05:00Windows 8 - Microsoft takes a chance on a new look.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
The Microsoft Windows operating system gets a bad rap. Many speak about Windows with disdain and a sour face and harp incessantly about crashes, freezes and other OS maladies.<br />
<br />
These people are wrong. Dead wrong. Since before Windows XP, the OS has generally been a stable system and the new Windows 8 promises the same trouble-free experience but with a graphical twist.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYiJfbpIlzcgkNKINTn5DV2NRt_VVJxVuSND5y-tJaetrbt3MlCd3oaLRrkEfp8LUZqBRDBca8KV_sYgU7p4dQH3N-nB_YQr_exq3DiLPJ6gptETneOT5v2aWo56xUhyphenhyphendIrccF68PTkk8/s1600/Windows-8-Tablet-UI-Start-Screen-Final_thumb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYiJfbpIlzcgkNKINTn5DV2NRt_VVJxVuSND5y-tJaetrbt3MlCd3oaLRrkEfp8LUZqBRDBca8KV_sYgU7p4dQH3N-nB_YQr_exq3DiLPJ6gptETneOT5v2aWo56xUhyphenhyphendIrccF68PTkk8/s400/Windows-8-Tablet-UI-Start-Screen-Final_thumb.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Will the new look be a hit with people used to the old look?<br />(Microsoft)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Just like the Windows Phone OS, the user will be greeted with a set of "tiles" with each representing a different app. This new design has been called "Metro".For instance, one tile may represent the user's email account. Since the app is live, the tile will display the current number of unread messages. The user need only to click on the app to open the email client.<br />
<br />
Other new features include:<br />
<br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Internet Explorer 10- built to take advantage of the new Metro design.</li>
<li>Powerful, but lightweight, W8 can be installed on nearly any computer made in the last 5-6 years.</li>
<li>Windows Defender- an excellent antivirus program that used to be separate (but free) is now built in. </li>
<li>Media Center is now standard</li>
<li>USB 3.0 integration means pictures and video can be downloaded faster than ever before. </li>
</ul>
<div>
There's more- much more in fact. But the best news about Windows 8 may be the price to upgrade your current computer- only $40! So, if you're running XP, Windows 7 or just want the newest and fastest version of Windows, it will set you back less than dinner at a decent restaurant. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Although it's not normally my policy to use Wikipedia as a link, there's a strong article detailing all Windows 8 has to offer. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Windows_8" target="_blank">Go to it here.</a> </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
For a news of W8, no one knows the new OS better than Paul Thurrott. He's literally written the book on the subject and posts regular articles about new developments, tips and opinion on all things WS8. <a href="http://www.winsupersite.com/windows-8" target="_blank">Take a look here. </a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
Authorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07434693271115319736noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6746462917235638685.post-17175304881785181832012-06-28T10:27:00.002-05:002012-06-28T10:33:23.766-05:00Google Nexus 7- The Kindle Fire starts to feel the heat.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
In the beginning, there was the Kindle Fire. It cost $200 and delivered the kind of experience that made it a runaway bestseller. It could do all kinds of light duty computing- more than enough for most people who weren't looking for the high-zoot power of an Apple iPad (or the high-zoot price either).<br />
<br />
Well, it took awhile but competitors are starting to appear in the marketplace to challenge the Fire for a prime place under the tree next Christmas. This week, Google introduced the Nexus 7, a small form tablet sized like the Fire and priced like it too- a mere $200 for a 8G version ($250 for the 16G). The screen is 7" inches across and is as thin as an iPhone.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaptKdmFvLmFgFt0KTi4QLfC1b7fWWneCWAr0U3CE8PGyk_ozlnwmAtx3yQgauq2ILIL0L2lNk9TvzOHVArUimBJGPkr4eCPIQNO707zx-GYz9OQ2qOEcfB3iyBdthSFOz1vYMx5QEsOs/s1600/nexus_7_banner_002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="195" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaptKdmFvLmFgFt0KTi4QLfC1b7fWWneCWAr0U3CE8PGyk_ozlnwmAtx3yQgauq2ILIL0L2lNk9TvzOHVArUimBJGPkr4eCPIQNO707zx-GYz9OQ2qOEcfB3iyBdthSFOz1vYMx5QEsOs/s400/nexus_7_banner_002.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">If my wife is reading this, here is my hint for Christmas.<br />
(google.com)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The Nexus 7 can do most of the things other tablets can do like display ebooks and magazines, play movies and install more than 600,000 Android Apps from the Google Play market of apps. But, The Nexus 7 comes with the next generation of the Android operating system called Jellybean that boasts features like Google Now and 10 hours of e-reading and web browsing (but "only" 8 hours of HD video).<br />
<br />
But does it seems that 8G or 16G may not be enough to store books, music, apps and the other ephemera required to make the tablet experience satisfying? No worries- the Nexus 7 uses "tons of free" (Google's words) cloud storage to hold most of your data so you never have to worry about running out of space for all of your Grateful Dead bootleg tapes or having to pick only a few of your favorite Scooby Doo episodes. Now, you can keep them all ready, as much as you want, whenever you want.<br />
<br />
The good news is you can preorder now and get $25 of Google Play credit to add the apps of your choice and be the first on your block to get what looks to be the start of a beautiful friendship. <a href="http://www.google.com/nexus/#/7/features" target="_blank">Go to Google's announcement here</a> for a better look at all the specs, accessories and <a href="https://play.google.com/store/devices/details?id=nexus_7_8gb&feature=nexus7_campaign" target="_blank">the preorder page </a>so you can get your Nexus 7 by the end of July.<br />
<br />
Want to read a review of the Google Nexus 7? <a href="http://reviews.cnet.com/google-nexus-7/" target="_blank">Cnet.com has both a video and text review here. </a><br />
<br />
The ball is now in Amazon's court. We know there's a new Fire in the works and you can be sure the next year is sure to be interesting for the winners.<br />
<br />
Winners? Sure. You know, people who buy these things like you and me. </div>Authorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07434693271115319736noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6746462917235638685.post-12784364879321965092012-06-11T13:10:00.001-05:002012-06-11T13:11:06.933-05:00Apple's New Products for 2012- Newer, Better, Faster but where's the iPhone?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
You know, for a company that holds just a small percentage of the electronics industry market share (from 11%-17% depending on who you ask) Apple sure gets a lot of attention. And who can resist listening when Apple talks? Personally, I don't own a single Apple product so I have no dog in this fight, but I can help but pay attention when Apple starts to make announcements on future products.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAr6NkMMje3lxKPcsZa_2GdOKc7fQBpw1WFt2fI-bp-jJqHtsWM-FHBaVw3j-juI5TjTuQ-rvlvqt4z0vhoUQUNMCdlf3eXJaGQG5S6jrDXQAAu0Et4hpQBEDNSZmHLzaxPQZJUNDHEHU/s1600/old-apple-computer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAr6NkMMje3lxKPcsZa_2GdOKc7fQBpw1WFt2fI-bp-jJqHtsWM-FHBaVw3j-juI5TjTuQ-rvlvqt4z0vhoUQUNMCdlf3eXJaGQG5S6jrDXQAAu0Et4hpQBEDNSZmHLzaxPQZJUNDHEHU/s320/old-apple-computer.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Remember this? I think the new products<br />
are a wee bit more advanced.<br />
(wikipedia.com)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
At the 2012 WWDC (<b>W</b>orld <b>W</b>ide<b> D</b>eveloper's <b>C</b>onference), Apple has started to release the first post-Steve Jobs products. Undoubtedly, these products were set before the passing of Apple's legendary leader, so this is the consumer's chance to see what's coming for the next 12 months and what they might find under the tree in December.<br />
<br />
The list is a little long for complete coverage, but here's some things you can expect from the conference:<br />
<br />
<br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>A new MacBook pro, updated with speedier processors and more oomph, including the ability to use USB 3.0 (lightning quick data transfers)</li>
<li>Retina displays on some computers (as an option or standard? Not sure) </li>
<li>A new iPhone and/or iPod? (probably not, but...) </li>
</ul>
<div>
<a href="http://www.engadget.com/2012/06/11/apple-wwdc-2012-liveblog/" target="_blank">Engadget</a> has complete coverage details and posts breaking news as it happens. <a href="http://www.engadget.com/2012/06/11/apple-wwdc-2012-liveblog/" target="_blank">Go over to their site now</a> for analysis and insight into Apple's latest offerings and, who knows? I might just ask Santa for a new Apple gizmo this Christmas. </div>
</div>Authorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07434693271115319736noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6746462917235638685.post-64925645824078228602012-06-04T16:26:00.000-05:002012-06-04T21:35:13.242-05:00Windows 8- Your Most Common Questions Answered.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Windows rules the world.<br />
<br />
Despite the huge (and loud) Apple fanbase, the fact remains that the Microsoft Windows operating system is the predominate computer system by a factor of 10 or more. Since the 1980's, the majority of the world's computers run on the system begun by Bill Gates and a few others in a small storefront in Albuquerque, New Mexico decades ago.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOwkO_Escj7UTv2FAjkTm3hUQ4NrU3UhvXV41oLFcSZq0sjPF5Yp0BsWP9RZyRBmekX6eB4fSF1z-BDg9ByJQ8_ro8vCfYDmUI9lmTzhLirBkUKllB_65b1-uM2kT1-RKPP2y5oHlP-M0/s1600/windows+phone+7+tiles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOwkO_Escj7UTv2FAjkTm3hUQ4NrU3UhvXV41oLFcSZq0sjPF5Yp0BsWP9RZyRBmekX6eB4fSF1z-BDg9ByJQ8_ro8vCfYDmUI9lmTzhLirBkUKllB_65b1-uM2kT1-RKPP2y5oHlP-M0/s320/windows+phone+7+tiles.jpg" width="161" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Windows Phone 7 with<br />a look towards the future.<br />(pcmag.com)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
And as each new version of Windows emerges for the consuming public, new methods of computing and the human/machine interface gets a little bit better each time. Until recently, changes were evolutionary- a little bit better each time, but still recognizable as the same ol' Windows- just a bit more grown up.<br />
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Not this time though. For 2012, Microsoft is debuting a brand new system called Windows 8 with some deeply interesting elements sure to catch the eye of Windows lovers all over the world. If you've seen the <a href="http://www.pcworld.com/businesscenter/article/208079/windows_phone_7_the_genius_of_tiles_and_hubs.html" target="_blank">Microsoft smart phone operating system Windows Phone 7</a>, you get the idea. Tiles on the home screen are "alive" with information like e-mails, weather, Facebook postings, sports scores, etc.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2KchXTQcK0cXsSNFyC6YEPS2WeVAEFDuOwvrE3f91PoyD1IVGHgsTiIKxzHiicoiw4gLhExeOVi3wKNUVZfW4jY9akGKreSCof7O7Wq-lsthMHPWz16qh8Ik-dKfykNsYIqAX8RkV3Ms/s1600/windows-8-tile-screen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2KchXTQcK0cXsSNFyC6YEPS2WeVAEFDuOwvrE3f91PoyD1IVGHgsTiIKxzHiicoiw4gLhExeOVi3wKNUVZfW4jY9akGKreSCof7O7Wq-lsthMHPWz16qh8Ik-dKfykNsYIqAX8RkV3Ms/s400/windows-8-tile-screen.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looks different, doesn't it?<br />
(Microsoft)</td></tr>
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Much of what gives Windows 8 its unique appearance is what gives Windows Phone 7 its appearance and that's on purpose. The thinking is, if you become used to the W8 system, then you'll be more likely to see the WP7 system as comfortable, familiar and you'll be more likely to buy one or the other due to this familiarity. I don't pretend to understand this approach, but Microsoft seems to believe the concept has merit.<br />
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No release date is available but it's almost sure to be in the 4th quarter of this year. For those of you who still have questions,<a href="http://www.pcworld.com/article/229285/windows_8_what_you_need_to_know.html" target="_blank"> PCWorld.com</a> has the answers to some of the more common queries users have been asking. But, if we all wait just a couple of months, all of our questions will be answered when the systems premieres. <a href="http://www.pcworld.com/article/229285/windows_8_what_you_need_to_know.html" target="_blank">Click here to see if your question was answered. </a><br />
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By the way, work has already begun on Windows 9. Some would call that too soon.<br />
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I call it job security.<br />
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<br /></div>Authorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07434693271115319736noreply@blogger.com0