News Archive for 03/02/14

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Apps: SimpleFTP, HP Deskjet Driver, KisMAC..

02/14, 10:40pm

Apps: SimpleFTP, HP Deskjet Driver, KisMAC..

SimpleFTP 2.0 adds SFTP (secure ftp) to the FTP client for Mac OS X 10.2. It supports multiple connections to different servers, file resume for uploads/downloads, multi-file/folder transfers (and deletion), bookmarks, and drag & drop. [1.3MB]
Mitz Pettel's Vidi 0.2d2 is an application that lets you watch and record TV on your Mac using the Formac Sutdio DV/TV video converter. It records to the DV file format (usable by QuickTime), offer high-quality audio (in sync with video), has low CPU usage, and has keyboard-based channel surfing. [144KB]
Jason Greene notes HP Deskjet Driver v2.1 fixes printer performance issues, problems with spooled jobs not printing, and duplex printing over AppleTalk. It supports DeskJet 825, 845, 900-series, cp1160-series, cp1170 series, cp1700-series, 3820-series, 6120-series, and 5550-series printers. [16.3MB]
KisMAC 0.03c is an update to the freeware AirPort-compatible wireless network utility that can discover networks. "[It] is unique to Mac OS X in that it is the only stumbler that will detect hidden networks and put an Airport card into monitoring mode. This enables the airport card to be completely passive while detecting networks. [2.7MB]
Blosxom 1.2 (pronounced "Blossom") is a "light-weight yet feature-packed weblog application designed from the ground up with simplicity, usability, and interoperability in mind." The open-source (freeware) uses standard text files, can create multiple web blogs, can generate dynamic or static pages, and offers RSS syndication (as well as aggregation), and other features. [62KB]

Symantec releases public beta of NAV 9.0

02/14, 10:20pm

Symantec releases public beta of NAV 9.0

Symantec has released a public beta of Norton AntiVirus v9.0b, a Mac OS X native Cocoa application with several new features and enhancements including PC virus scanning and repair (same virus definitions as NAV for Windows), file quarantine functions, compressed archive scan and repair, and scanning scan mounted volumes. The preview beta is time-stamped and will expire 30 days after your initial install:

"This beta release is still under development and could possibly cause conflicts with system software, and any installed 3rd party extensions and control panels. We would like your feedback on the product, but we do not provide support for beta software. Installing this beta release of NAV will also remove any current version of the product."

Mac OS X 10.2.4 security highlights

02/14, 6:05pm

Mac OS X 10.2.4 security highlights

Apple notes that Mac OS X 10.2.4 contains fixes for the following potential security issues: a potential Sendmail buffer overflow; an AFP login permissions error; a hacker vulnerability whereby files could be overwritten; and the latest version of Samba, which addresses a general security concern.

Apps: shadowClipboard, WireHose, skHTML...

02/14, 5:55pm

Apps: shadowClipboard, WireHose, skHTML...

shadowClipboard is an $8 clipboard enhancement utility for Mac OS X, offering multiple cliboards that can be used between applications. It adds a user-definable hot-key for hiding/showing the application, resizable tables and preview pane in advanced mode, and other features. [407KB]
iScreensaver Designer 3.0b is described as "the world's only cross-platform screensaver editor." Version 3.0 includes full support for Mac OS 9/X and Windows XP, as well as a new Slide Show editor. It will convert all QuickTime-compatible files into a self-contained screensaver with a one-click installer. Customizeable options include splash screens, web linking, and alternate (hidden) content; it also offers a simple but powerful WYSIWYG editor. Pricing starts at $200. [5.0MB]
Sean Kelly's skHTML 3.2 adds improved Undo/Redo Support, integrates CVS support, adds Perl/Python syntax higlighting and checking, autotagging of HTML/XHTML files, unlimited support for temporary files, and improved encoding support. [1.6MB]
Haxial DiskCatalog is a fast utility for cataloging CDs, hard disks, folders, and any other type of disk. It allows you to browse the contents of disks without having to find them and insert them into your computer. Th $20 shareware runs on Mac OS 9/X. [320KB]
WireHose 2.0 is an update to the company's software for rapidly building dynamic, scalable portals with integrated content management features. Built in pure Java using Apple's powerful WebObjects application development environment, WireHose enables applications that scale from departmental digital asset management to high-volume personalizable internet portals. It offers content management, personalization, access control, multiple database support, dynamic layouts, and support for multiple output formats. Pricing has been reduced to $1000 per server.
CommandSets.com has released new Command Sets for Safari and iChat, bringing the total number of commands sets available to 19. Anyone with Mac OS X can use the sets with the English Speech Recognition software built into the OS. Sets for ViaVoice and iListen are also available. The Safari set has 75 commands and allows users to surf the net using their voice. The set, priced at normally at $10, is $8 until Safari goes 'GM'.

Webcast to focus on directory integration

02/14, 5:55pm

Webcast to focus on directory integration

MacOSXLabs is hosting an "Enterprise Directory Integration" webcast/seminar on Tuesday, February 18. This Webcast will explain how to make use of Mac OS X's built-in directory support, Apple's Open Directory, and "how a couple of large higher-ed institutions have been able to leverage OS X's support for other popular enterprise directory solutions." If you are new to directory services and want to know why you should care about them, or you just want to find out how to make use of them, "you'll want to tune in." Gordon Shukwit of Apple Computer will make the presentation, along with Jeff Greene of the University of Colorado, and Jason Prell from the University of Iowa.

Reader: Honda Element video shows iPod

02/14, 5:30pm

Reader: Honda Element video shows iPod

A MacNN reader notes that a promotional video for the Honda Element features an Apple iPod being used in conjunction with the vehicle's MP3 player connector.

EI offers free iBook with Universe 5 purchase

02/14, 2:05pm

EI offers free iBook with Universe 5 purchase

Electric Image's newest promo featured on its Website also offers a "free iBook" with the purchase of its $1,300 Universe 5 3D application suite. The offer runs through March 31, 2003 and includes an iBook wtih a 700MHz G3 processor, 128MB of memory, a 20GB Ultra ATA hard drive, an ATI Radeon 7500 with 16MB of VRAM, and CD-ROM (offer details in Apple Store).

Steamroller Universe plugin for Mac OS X

02/14, 2:00pm

Steamroller Universe plugin for Mac OS X

TripleDTools has released Steamroller, a texturing plug-in for use with Universe Animator from Electric Image. Steamroller generates geometry-based templates for texturing which allow you to line up details perfectly with your models. Steamroller?s template file offers unparalleled control over the construction of incredibly accurate texture maps. Comprehensive documentation with a tutorial ensure that even the novice user can quickly take advantage of this powerful texturing system. The $150 plugin is compatible with both Mac OS 9/X, an create templates for planar, cylindrical, and spherical maps, and generates multiple-layer Adobe Photoshop files with different template information in each layer.

Syllabus: laptops can't clear cloudy future

02/14, 1:35pm

Syllabus: laptops can't clear cloudy future

Syllabus, a publication targetting higher education, today published an article titled "How Much Reality Does Simulation Need?" in which Phil Long, senior strategist for the Academic Computing Enterprise at MIT, concludes:

"These are well-engineered and sophisticated laptops. Whether they are too little too late is the question for Apple. Some financial analysts appear to be non-plussed. The day of MacWorld, Merrill Lynch issued a sell recommendation. Almost simultaneously Prudential Financial issued a 'hold' rating on Apple Computer. Looks like Wall St. is just as uncertain by the future of Apple as the rest of us. Sometimes the '8-ball' says, 'Outlook cloudy, try again later.'"

Pearson to bring education technology to OS X

02/14, 1:30pm

Pearson to bring education technology to OS X

Pearson Education has announced plans to deliver two of its education technology applications on Mac OS X by bringing SASIxp and KnowledgeBox to the platform. Pearson Digital Learning will deploy its KnowledgeBox digital learning system on Xserve within the first quarter of this year and also says it will bring its widely used SASIxp student information system to Mac OS X in the third quarter.

DropStuff, StuffIt Deluxe discount for .Mac

02/14, 1:05pm

DropStuff, StuffIt Deluxe discount for .Mac

Apple is offering .Mac subscribers a free copy of DropStuff ($30 component of StuffIt Standard Edition), its compression utility and a 50% discount on StuffIt Deluxe (available for $40), its advanced full-featured archive management solution, according to MacNN readers. [readers not that the promo was advertised on .Mac Website]

Hotline 1.9 released, Haxial KDX alternative

02/14, 11:30am

Hotline 1.9 released, Haxial KDX alternative

MaNN reader Drew Maynard writes about a new version of Hotline, which resurrects the popular Internet sharing client. (Readers note the growing popularity of the secure Haxial KDX system, which provides chat, messaging, news, file transfer, trackers etc. for a registration fee of $25)

"The release of Hotline 1.9 marks the introduction of several new partnerships for Hotsprings Inc. A new toolbar button will give users the opportunity to install Securiphone with a 90 day free trial. Securiphone provides encrypted voice over IP communications in the Windows version of the client. Hotsprings is also pleased to announce the debut of the Hotline ISP. This partnership with AXS2Net offers HotSprings and its HotLine community a full turn-key ISP solution that offers reduced cost V90 dial-up Internet access with all the bells and whistles including: Personal Portal, Parental Controls, Secure Communications, Pop-Up Blocker, 5 email accounts and a banner-less version of the Hotline client software."

Juno.com ISP offers beta support for Mac OS X

02/14, 11:20am

Juno.com ISP offers beta support for Mac OS X

A MacNN reader notes that Juno.com has provided preliminary support for Mac OS X: "Beta support for OS X through Juno.com.... I'm a broadband subscriber, but I'm also a field service tech who keeps Earthlink basic ($9.95 for 10 hours) for troubleshooting while on the road. Juno looks to steal my money from Earthlink, and may just get it."

PhotoWarp 2.0b for panoramic imaging

02/14, 11:05am

PhotoWarp 2.0b for panoramic imaging

EyeSee360 has released a beta of PhotoWarp 2.0, a workflow tool for panoramic imaging. As a component of the 360 One VR system, its primary use is as an unwarping tool for 360 One VR photographs. With support for several panoramic image formats, it is also useful as a conversion tool and a web page generator." Versio 2.0 adds batch processing, new output formats, conversion tools for cylindrical and spherical source images as well as QuickTime VR cylinders, custom web scripts, format templates, and other enhancements. The public preview is available for registered users (as a free upgrade), requires Mac OS X 10.1, and expires April 1, 2003.

Stereo3D visualization products for the Mac

02/14, 10:35am

Stereo3D visualization products for the Mac

StereoGraphics has announced that its Stereo3D visualization products are now available for Mac OS X. CrystalEyes and Monitor ZScreen allow "engineers, scientists and educators in the Life Sciences, Medical and Industrial Virtual Reality industries to develop, view and manipulate complex 3D computer graphics for the realistic display of Stereo3D images. The use of StereoGraphics' technology increases understanding of complex geometry in molecular models, human anatomy and product development, reducing design time and accelerating time to market." Both are compatible with G4 systems and require stereo-enabled software. CrystalEyes Workstation ($1050) includes eyewear and the E2Mac Emitter. The Monitor ZScreen ($2500) includes a modulating panel, (suitable for up to 21" CRT monitors), 3 deluxe circular polarized eyewear, power supply and the StereoEnabler for the Mac.

Apps: CheckBook, Mac No-IP, SwapSwapVM...

02/14, 10:30am

Apps: CheckBook, Mac No-IP, SwapSwapVM...

Splasm Software has released CheckBook 1.1, an update to its checking and savings account manager. It includes a new reconciliation mode, new data fields, built-in filters to search by date, new contextual menus, summary account printing. and other enhancements. It is $10 shareware. [570KB]
No-IP has posted public betas of its free dynamic DNS Update client, Mac No-IP v3.0b8, for both Mac OS X and Classic. The free service provides both web and mail (as well as other services) redirection to any registered host computer, allowing users to associate a host name/URL with your computer. The clients provide automatic IP updates for computers with dynamic IP configuration.
Heroes of Might and Magic IV 2.3 is an update to popular role playing game. Th AI now properly judges danger of opponents and monster stacks on map and the editor has many bug fixes, including proper saving of map scripts, improved naming scripts, better import in multi-scenario campaigns, and other enhancements. [4.2MB]
SwapSwapVM 0.9.9b4 brings Mac OS X 10.2.4 support to the AppleScript application made with Smile. It is designed to change the target volume (disk; partition) for the Virtual Memory swapfiles in OS X 10.2.x Jaguar. SwapSwapVM requires a default installation of OS X 10.2 (including BSD) and a minimum 832x624 screen resolution.
Quesa 1.6d17 is the latest release of the high-level 3D library for developers. This release incorporates substantial performance improvements, bug fixes, new features, and complete API documentation generated with HeaderDoc: "Applications written to the Quesa API can take advantage of an extensive 3D toolkit that includes file importers/exporters, plug-in renderers, and high-level geometries, while still leveraging the performance of low-level OpenGL 3D hardware acceleration."
Weird Kid Software's Emailchemy 1.4.5 reads email files from the proprietary formats of the most popular email applications and converts them to standard formats. The $25 utility adds full support for non-English character sets, simplified standard conversion interface with optional output merging, improved conversion wizards, and other bug fixes. It is a free upgrade. [357KB]
Freeverse Software today posted version 1.0.2 of its Payback Demo. Published in the United Kingdom by Virtual Programming, and originally developed by Apex Designs, the $30 game title features "all the fun of automobile thievery and random violence without any of the pesky life-changing consequences." The latest version includes some minor interface refinements, and minor bug fixes. [5.7MB]
Birthday Reminder 2.1 is an update to the freeware application that helps remember friend's and relative's birthdays. It uses Mac OS X's Address Book as its main repository, or database. [66KB]

HomePage Creativity Contest winners posted

02/14, 9:55am

HomePage Creativity Contest winners posted

Apple has posted the winners of the HomePage Creativity Contest, offering three Grand Prize winners a 20GB iPod and an increase to 1GB of iDisk space. Three Second Prize winners also receive a 5GB iPod.

Resources, notes on Mac OS X 10.2.4 update

02/14, 1:40am

Resources, notes on Mac OS X 10.2.4 update

We've added reports to our new Mac OS X 10.2.4 Special Report, including a note about ATI Rage Pro support (for Lombard PowerBooks), loss of resolutions on an LCD monitor (though not a widely reported issue), and a persisting CVS security hole (documented last month). We've also added direct links to the online versions of both the Mac OS X 10.2.4 updater and the Combo updater, which includes all previous updates since the release of Jaguar. Update: We've added more reports, including notes on Bluetooth improvements, external FireWire CD-RW support, and a complete file listing of changed files.