News Archive for 04/11/15

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Books: DVD Studio Pro, Smart Home Hacks

11/15, 9:10pm

DVD Studio Pro guide

Book releases: DVD Studio Pro 3 for Mac OS X: Visual QuickPro Guide by Martin Sitter helps users "build on your existing DVD authoring skills to master DVD Studio Pro 3’s many powerful new features—including more than 30 additional transition styles, superb HD-to-MPEG-2 encoding, and more." Sitter breaks down each DVD Studio Pro task into concise step-by-step instructions accompanied by informative screen shots.... Smart Home Hacks by Gordon Meyer shows consumers how to turn "their homes into state-of-the-art machines, complete with more switches, sensors, and actuators... Whether you want to equip your home with motion detectors for added security, install computer-controlled lights for optimum convenience, or even mount an in-home web cam for entertainment."

Apps: dotMac Menu, TarMac, Edirol drivers, VLC, ...

11/15, 5:40pm

dotMac Menu, TarMac

dotMac Menu 1.0 is a menu extra that offer convenient functions for accessing and controlling your .Mac account from the menubar. dotMac Menu is organized into four categories that make it easy to find a specific section in .Mac, check your iDisk usage, launch iDisk integrated applications, and view your .Mac expiration date. [336KB]
TarMac 1.0 ($10) is a graphical front-end to the command-line gnutar utility on Mac OS X Panther. It allows you to open and browse the contents of a tar document as well as perform drag-and-drop extraction/archiving/modifcations . TarMac you can create folders in a tar document that don't exist in the Mac OS X file system as well as add new files, rename files, and encode Mac OS resource forks. [740KB]
Edirol has released Version 2.0.1 of its Mac OS X drivers for 10 audio interfaces. These new drivers offer improved performance under high CPU loads as well as a further reduction in the already-minimal latency factors. In addition, Edirol has also added an uninstaller for easy removal.
Rolling Credits 1.1 ($10) is an application for Mac OS X 10.3 designed to allow the user to create attractively-formatted, rolling credit lists in a word processing envionment (with previews) and output them as high-quality DV. It works with iMovie, Final Cut Express and Final Cut Pro. Version 1.1 now supports Wide Screen NTSC and PAL. Also added - Duration and Current Frame readouts. [2.4MB]
VLC Media Player 0.81 (free) updates the Mac OS X 10.2/10.3 application for playing virtually any kind of video on your Mac. It brings SSL/TLS support (serverside only), fixesa crash with ODML avi files, and adds support for Kasenna VoD (MPEG2 only) and simulcast streams. The player supports audio and video formats (MPEG-1, MPEG-2, MPEG-4, DivX, mp3, ogg, ...) as well as DVDs, VCDs, and various streaming protocols. [9.6MB]
Hog Bay Notebook 3.5 is a significant update to the powerful tool for organizing thoughts and notes. A new three pane interface makes it easy to browse and edit notebooks containing many entries. Hog Bay Notebook is $20. [Download - 1.0MB]

Galerie 4.0 supports GraphicConverter, watermarks

11/15, 5:05pm

Galerie 4.0 released

Myriad has released Galerie 4.0, an update to its freeware photo gallery generation software. The software offers allows users to quickly build photo galleries by simply selecting photos in iPhoto, GraphicConverter or iView MediaPro. Users can quickly select the style, coloring, navigation, and many other options using a simple preferences window and can choose a design from several included (or other freely available) templates. Version 4 offers support GraphicConverter and iView MediaPro, IPTC data management, semi-transparent watermarking support(logo and/or text), photo previews, and many improvements. It is free and available for Mac OS X 10.2 or later. Users can also download updated collections of free templates for use with the applications.

Apple launches Xserve, Portfolio Server 7 promo

11/15, 4:50pm

Apple debuts Xserve promo

Apple has launched a new promotion that bundles Extensis Portfolio Server with the Xserve. The ultimate digital asset manager promo offers up to $1200 in savings when users purchase an Xserve, Extensis Portfolio Server 7, and at least one Portfolio 7 client between October 29, 2004, and January 10, 2005. Extensis Portfolio Server allows professional to centralize their digital assets, offering functions for searching, archiving, and management. The offer is good at The Apple Store and other authorized Apple dealers.

LimeWire 4.2 to bring firewall-to-firewall transfers

11/15, 4:40pm

LimeWire 4.2 announced

Lime Wire announced that it will release an update to its peer-to-peer file sharing client later this week. LimeWire 4.2, expected on November 17, will feature several new options as well as new technology. Version 4.2 will bring new firewall-to-firewall transfers, a completely new MP3 player, iTunes integration on Windows, faster downloads and network connections, new icons, new file views, and more. Firewall-to-firewall transfers allow two users behind firewalls to connect directly with each other and transfer data, according to the company. Previously firewalled users could only download from hosts who were not firewalled, significantly limiting the network content. The company estimates that 60% of current users are firewalled. Both the free and Pro ($20, with better search results, faster downloads, ad-free operation, and personalized support) will be available.

FootTrack 2.0 updates DV cataloging software

11/15, 4:30pm

FootTrack 2.0 released

T-Squared Software today released Version 2 of FootTrack, the first major update to its digital video cataloging application. FootTrack is a Mac OS X application that allows you to capture, catalog and easily search all your digital video tape footage. It offers improved search functions, the ability to burn cataloged tapes to CD/DVDs, anamorphic (widescreen) support, custom compression settings, German localization, batch compression options, better keyword support, improved handling of catalogs on external FireWire drives, and more. It is available for $50 with upgrades priced at $20. A demo is available for Mac OS X 10.2 or later.

MOTU debuts bus-powered FireWire audio interface

11/15, 4:25pm

MOTU Traveler FW audio

MOTU today introduced the Traveler, a bus-powered FireWire audio interface designed for portable recording situations with either desktop or laptop computers. The Traveler draws power from its FireWire connection to the computer or can be powered by an industry-standard battery pack via a 4-pin XLR power socket. As a complete audio recording system with 20 inputs and 22 outputs operating simultaneously, the Traveler inherits many features from MOTU's 828mkII FireWire interface and adds many additional significant new features, including four mic/guitar/instrument inputs, digitally controlled mic input gain, 192kHz analog recording capability and both S/PDIF and AES/EBU 96kHz digital I/O. The device weighs 3.8 pounds, is nearly 15" x 9" x 1.75", and is housed in a strong, lightweight aluminum alloy case. It will ship in the fourth quarter for $900.

G-Technology debuts G-Drive storage solutions

11/15, 12:50pm

G-Drive storage solutions

G-Technology today introduced G-Drive, a new line of professional storage solutions engineered for audio and video editing, image archiving and high-speed data backup. The G-Drive is equipped with the latest highperformance FireWire and/or USB 2.0 interfaces and offers a unique "fan-less" cooling system designed to silently dissipate heat for superior reliability and data integrity. It is available in 160G, 250GB and 400GB capacities--each in three different models: (1) two FireWire 800 ports and a single FireWire 400 port; (2) two FireWire 400 ports and a single USB 2.0 port; or (3) a USB 2.0-only version. The solutions use a 7200 RPM disk drive with 8 MB cache, feature an aluminum enclosure, integrate Kensington security lock technology, and are compatible with Mac OS X. They whill ship in December with prices starting at $170.

Booq intros Cobra.XM briefcase-type laptop case

11/15, 12:35pm

Booq intros Cobra.XM

Booq has introduced the Cobra.XM, a 15-inch ballistic nylon laptop case designed for professional travelers with 15-inch PowerBooks. The briefcase-type case targets creative pros who are looking for a "well-designed alternative to the traditional laptop case, while not willing to compromise on either performance or styling. The product protects laptops inside a rigid frame compartment, and ships with a full-featured removable sleeve, which may be used separately as a compact carrying case." It also offers an expandable zippered compartment and a variety of pockets and compartments for all types of accessories. It is available now for $180.

Briefly: Apple Xserves, Apple Stores, ARD webcast

11/15, 12:15pm

Apple Stores, ARD webcast

In Brief: Apple continued to re-establish itself in the server market with shipments growing 119 percent year over year, according to Gartner Dataquest’s preliminary worldwide server shipment estimates.... CITY magazine has written a witty and informative analysis of the culture and clientele of the Apple Store SoHo, while Newsweek says that Apple Stores are among the new 'cool places to hang out'.... The MacEnterprise.org (formerly MacOSXLabs.org) group will be presenting an Apple Remote Desktop 2 In-Depth Webcast on Tuesday, November 16 at 1:00 pm EDT.... IBM has posted an article that looks at the Open Firmware spec, traces its history as a standard, examines how it works and some of its components, and discusses the benefits it offers.

CSI: Crime Scene Investigation due at end of Nov.

11/15, 11:15am

CSI goes gold, due in Nov

Aspyr today announced that CSI: Crime Scene Investigation for Mac, based on the popular primetime drama, has gone 'gold' and is scheduled to begin shipping November 29. The title immerses players in the CSI world created by the hit TV show and introduces five new, complex crimes. "With real music, atmosphere and locations, gamers become a part of the CSI team. Enter the gritty world of solving the vicious murder of a woman, a slain police officer and a mysterious arson case, among others. Players must utilize razor-sharp wit, puzzle-solving prowess and unflinching nerve to stay on the case and track down the killers." It requires Mac OS 10.2.8 or later and a 500MHz or faster CPU. It is available for pre-order for $30.

Apps: Audio Hijack, PowerMail, FUNDimensions, ...

11/15, 11:10am

Audio Hijack, PowerMail

Audio Hijack 2.2 ($16) adds a new AIFF Sample Rate selector, a "Stop Recording After" setting, and two new post-processing scripts to "Add To iPod" and "Encode To Wav" as well as several other features. The applications allows users to quickly and easily save audio from almost any application. [1.1MB]
PowerMail 5.1 ($50) updates the multiple account email client. It now features WebKit integration for displaying HTML messages, new AppleScript commands, better attachment management. It also offers enhanced spam filters, SpamSieve integration, better performance, .sitx decompression, live window resizing, customizable toolbars, message/attachment export, and more. [4.8MB]
FUNDimensions 5.1 ($2000) updates the fundraising software with easier collaboration easier in a multi-user environment by giving the creator of a calendar event control of whether other users of the software can see the event on the calendar, change it attributes, or set reminders. It also improves export functions and offers several bug fixes.
KidsBrowser 3.0 ($30) is a secure web browser designed for children. Using Apple's WebKit HTML/web engine, it offers full screen browsing, favorites management, email management, configuration assistance, tabview management, custom themes, filtering (content or URLs), and more. It runs on Mac OS X 10.3 or later. [6.3MB]
StickyBrain 3.0.1 ($40) updates the third-generation note manager for Mac OS X that sports a new interface with Safari-like tabs, offers iPod sync functions, leverages a new database architecture, includes FlashNote searching, links notes to the Address Book, etc. It adds an assortment of user-selectable "skins", important bug fixes, installer improvements, and performance increases. [19MB]
Denes v1.0.0b06 (beta) is an EIMS filter for performing DNS lookups using custom rules and criteria. It offers full support for DNS-based blacks list and white lists available in a single filter. The application dynamically reloads after any changes and is free for use during November. Pricing is $50 for a two-CPU license. [415KB]

Apple may become 'Sony of the 21st century'

11/15, 9:25am

Apple to become next Sony?

A New York Times article titled Gates vs. Jobs: The Rematch discusses Apple's market leading position in the music player and online music markets, saying that Apple 'may become the Sony of the 21st century,' if it continues to ride the wave of digital consumer electronics products: "For that to happen, however, Mr. Jobs must do what he failed to do last time: prevail over his old nemesis, Bill Gates, who sees entertainment as Microsoft's next great frontier. Microsoft is working hard to make sure that the iPod is less like the Walkman and more like the Betamax...." The article also notes that U2 was not paid by Apple: "In its three-year life, the iPod has achieved such 'iconic value,' Bono said, that U2 gets as much value as Apple does from the commercial, by promoting its music and the new Red and Black U2 edition of the iPod, for which the band gets royalties." [free registration required]

FileMaker ships Donations 2.0 for non-profits

11/15, 9:20am

FileMaker Donations 2.0

FileMaker today began shipping FileMaker Donations 2.0, a ready-to-use donations management application that helps charitable organizations and other non-profits plan, track and streamline their fundraising campaigns, donations and donor outreach efforts. Version 2 features a complete re-design that leverages the latest FileMaker Pro 7 release as well as a new user-controlled multi-window environment, built-in security with predefined privilege sets, more powerful reporting, quick view of outstanding actions, better import from MS Outlook/Address Book, defaults for preferences and contacts, enhanced batch mail functions, and more. It is a free upgrade to v1.0 users and is available for $130. Customers upgrading to both FileMaker 7 and Donations 2.0 can upgrade for $213, while a new license of both applications is $363.

Plextor, Elgato debut Hi-Speed USB 2.0 PVR for Mac

11/15, 9:00am

Hi-Speed USB 2.0 PVR

Plextor has partnered with Elgato to introduce the first Hi-Speed USB 2.0 Personal Video Recorder (PVR) for the Mac. The Plextor ConvertX PVR combines Elgato EyeTV software with Plextor's ConvertX PVR video capture device with built-in TV tuner. It uses a real-time MPEG-2 hardware encoder to capture and compress broadcast, cable, or satellite TV to a hard drive. ConvertX PVR also supports RCA composite audio/video input and S-Video input connections for capturing home video from other sources such as camcorders, DVD players, and VCRs. It will ship later this month for $230.

Adobe announces Adobe Acrobat 7.0

11/15, 8:30am

Adobe Acrobat 7.0

Adobe today introduced Adobe Acrobat 7.0, an update to its family of desktop applications creating and working with PDF files. Version 7 allows workgroups to assemble documents from multiple sources, create intelligent forms, and more securely collaborate on projects inside and outside the firewall. Acrobat 7.0 Professional customers can now include virtually anyone in an electronic review of a PDF document by enabling access to commenting tools in free Adobe Reader 7.0 software. Adobe Reader users can quickly provide feedback on a PDF file that consists of several content types -- from scanned paper to spreadsheets, presentations, and now, 3D computer-aided design (CAD) content. It will ship by the end of year along with an updated version of its Adobe Reader 7.0 software.

Freecom ships 1GB credit-card size storage device

11/15, 8:00am

1GB \'Credit Card\'

Freecom Technologies today announced the second generation of its popular USB credit card-sized mobile storage device. The USBCard Pro is a new enhanced version of the card, which fits snugly into the credit card compartment of any wallet. It is waterproof at up to 20 meters depth, features a completely scratch-proof magnesium housing, and integrates a "clever mobile 'click'-fitting USB connection." The card delivers an average data transfer rate of 15 MB/s (read) and 11 MB/s (write) using a USB 2.0 interface and Mac OS 9.1 as well as Mac OS X. The mobile storage card is available in a variety of memory capacities--256MB ($170), 512MB ($270) and 1GB (430)--and is expected to be available in two weeks.

MacJams.com offers acoustic cello for GarageBand

11/15, 7:55am

Cello for GarageBand

MacJams.com has released a new acoustic cello software instrument for use with Apple's GarageBand music software. The software instrument was created by MacJams user Ben Boldt in collaboration with award winning professional cellist and iTunes musician, Claire Fitch. The new software instrument contains over 40 Megs of sampled cello sounds and is available for free download. The new "Fitch Cello" software instrument is offered in a native GarageBand format and includes a one-click installer for automatic installation.

Briefly: U2 iPod ships, Games on iPod?, lafcpug, ...

11/15, 7:50am

U2 iPod ships, games?

In Brief: The Apple Store has begun notifying readers that the iPod U2 Special Edition has begun shipping with one reader reporting an expected delivery Nov 19.... Shares of Digital River climbed Friday on rumors that its technology may be used to download games onto the next version of Apple's iPod, an analyst said.... Apple UK has confirmed that will be selling iPod Socks "soon" for £20 in the UK.... lafcpug (Los Angeles) will hold its first meeting in its new home, Wednesday, November 17 at the Gallery Theatre in East Hollywood.

Apple delivers 'unfocused' product with iPod Photo

11/15, 7:40am

LA Times on iPod Photo

An LA Times article says that Apple's latest development iPod Photo seems unfocused: "What I need now is for Jobs to explain why he thinks a 40- or 60-gigabyte iPod Photo - a device with more power than a lot of personal computers - needs to do slide shows as well as play music.... What's troubling us about iPhoto? Cost. The lack of a media-reader card slot, so that iPod Photo could be used as an instant viewer. A better option, if video's your thing, is the Windows Portable Media Center. Also troubling is the fact that to display photos so that they can be appreciated, the Photo needs an umbilical to a TV. Assuming that it could record and/or play video, that might influence a purchase. But it can't do either." [free registration required]

Troll Touch ships touchscreen system for iMac G5

11/15, 7:35am

Touchscreen for iMac G5

Troll Touch is now shipping its TouchSTAR3/17 and TouchSTAR3//20 internally integrated touchscreen systems for the iMac G5. Both models of the internally integrated analog resistive touchscreen overlay includes a high-resolution USB touchscreen controller and is designed for POS (point of sale), countertop kiosk and interactive display applications. Customers have the option of sending their previously purchased iMac G5 for touchscreen installation, or buying an entire touch-enabled package directly from the company. Pricing not available. The TouchSTAR3 products join the company's line of touch systems for Apple products, including the Apple Cinema displays, eMac, LCD and CRT iMacs and the PowerBook and iBook laptops.