Windows Phone 7 Connector for Mac Updated to Version 2.0

Microsoft have released version 2.0 of it’s Windows Phone 7 Connector for the Mac.

We first mentioned the Windows Phone 7 Connector Mac last December when it was in beta.

Windows Phone 7 Connector is a simple, easy-to-use application designed to sync your favourite media files from your Mac, with your Windows Phone 7 or Zune HD. You can also sync photos and videos you captured on your phone with your Mac, and when needed, update your Windows Phone 7 software.

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What’s New in Version 2:

  • Full sync and import support for Apple Aperture software
  • Drag and drop import of files from Browse Device
  • Ringtone transfer support (for phones running Windows Phone 7.5 or later)
  • Improved video conversion
  • Support for Windows Phone Marketplace (for phones running Windows Phone 7.5 or later)
  • Localization support for 13 additional languages
  • Improvements to backup and restore operations
  • Improved configuration for podcast sync and photo import
  • Improved iTunes import support in certain languages
  • Improved metadata support for videos
Download from the App Store now

New HP ProLiant MicroServers – The Specs

Last night we brought you a video that HP had posted previewing their new HP ProLiant MicroServers with Small Business Server 2011 Essentials. Now we can bring you the specs.

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In the US:

HP Specs US

In the UK:

HP Specs

I love my MicroServer and cant wait to try the new faster models!

Update on TouchPad Availability

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HP published an update on TouchPad availability today.  Read on for details!

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The HP blog site The Next Bench published an update, announcing that HP was making more TouchPads to cover demand.  Here is what they said:

I finally have some solid news to share about TouchPad availability.

Before I share, let me first say thank you for enthusiasm for this product. Since we announced the price drop, the number of inquiries about the product and the speed at which it disappeared from inventory has been stunning. I think it’s safe to say we were pleasantly surprised by the response.

Despite announcing an end to manufacturing webOS hardware, we have decided to produce one last run of TouchPads to meet unfulfilled demand. We don’t know exactly when these units will be available or how many we’ll get, and we can’t promise we’ll have enough for everyone. We do know that it will be at least a few weeks before you can purchase. See more information in the updated FAQs below.

Bryna (@BrynaatHP) and I (@MarkatHP) will update you here and on Twitter on the status of the new batch of systems. Please continue to share your thoughts and questions with us. Although we can’t respond to every one directly, we are sharing your feedback with teams inside HP.

Q: When is HP getting more HP TouchPads? One week, two weeks, a month?

A limited supply are coming and it will be a few weeks before they are available. As we know more about how, when, and where TouchPads will be available, we will communicate that here and through email to those who requested notification. We can tell you that HP’s Small and Medium Business team has sold out of HP TouchPads and will not have more inventory.

Q: Can you comment on whether HP had to manufacture more to meet the recent demand?

HP will be manufacturing a limited quantity of TouchPads with webOS during our fourth fiscal quarter 2011, which ends October 31.

Q: Will HP continue to make more TouchPads with webOS to meet the demand?

HP is discontinuing the development of webOS devices and is winding down device operations within our fourth fiscal quarter 2011.

Q: Will the notification/alert emails go out all at once so everyone has a fair shot?

All those who requested notification have been notified today that more are coming in the future, and will be notified again when more specifics are known.

Q: How does HP plan to address disappointed customers?

All those who requested notification have received a one-time exclusive offer along with their email as our thanks for their patience and loyalty throughout this situation.

Q: What about retailers? Some retailers won’t price match or drop their price to $99.

Each retailer will manage their own policy and process regarding pricing and price matching. Please contact the local retailer of your choice to see what their current position is.

Q: Please limit stock to 1 per person: some people are getting 20 and then selling them on craigslist and eBay for a major profit.

If more inventory is available in the future, there will be an order limit.

Q: What if you already own a TouchPad but want to get $99 pricing?

Please contact the retailer or the specific HP store where you originally purchased for their policy on this question.

Q: What about other regions, such as hp.ca, etc.?

At this time, other regions have limited to no inventory available. Please check with your chosen retailer or your local hp.com web site for more information.

Q: Any news on discounted TouchPad accessories or Pre2 or Veer phones or accessories?

Limited inventory remains on TouchPad and smartphone accessories. Please visit HP Home & Home Office or your chosen retailer for current availability as this situation is changing rapidly.

HP probably had some minimum quantity contracts and so I assume that they will make as many as they can to cover orders received and to satisfy these contracts.  Keep in mind that tear-down sites have estimated HP costs at over $200 per unit, so they are losing money on every unit that they make and sell at these fire sale prices.  I would not expect many more to come available.  I’ll update you as I learn more.

HP Preview New HP ProLiant Microserver with Windows SBS 2011 Essentials

HP have just released a video showing the new ProLiant Microserver with Windows SBS 2011 Essentials.

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We are big fans of the original ProLiant Microserver, so a new one is definitely interesting. More info when we get it!

And don’t forget my new SBS 2011 Essentials Book is available now!

Iomega Introduces New Helium Portable Hard Drive For Mac Users

Today Iomega introduced a new hard drive aimed at Mac users called the Helium Portable Hard Drive.

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Available in 500GB and 1TB capacities, the new Iomega Helium Portable Hard Drive is formatted HFS+ for compatibility with Mac computers right out of the box. Unlike competing portable hard drives, the Helium Portable Hard Drive boasts both local and online backup, as well as encryption and anti-virus software:

  • With a durable aluminum case, mobile users and others can take comfort in traveling with their Iomega Helium Portable Hard Drive.
  • 256-bit AES encryption keeps files on your Helium Portable Hard Drive safe from prying eyes.
  • A comprehensive suite of Mac software that includes one free year of protected internet surfing.

The Iomega Helium Portable Hard Drive requires no external power supply, and comes complete with one USB 2.0 cable.

Iomega Protection Suite, Mac Edition, Included

Owners of the new Iomega Helium Portable Hard Drive receive a powerful suite of Mac-oriented software solutions bundled with their drive:

  • Iomega® QuikProtect for simple scheduled file-level backup.
  • MozyHome™ Online Backup for convenient online backup of up to 2GB free.
  • A free 12-month subscription of Trend Smart Surfing for Mac allows users to shop, bank and surf online while staying safe from attacks to your identity and confidential information.
Availability and Warranty

The new Iomega® Helium Portable Hard Drive is available worldwide in two capacities: the 500GB model is $99.99, and the 1TB model is $149.99. (Pricing is U.S. suggested retail.) The Helium Portable Hard Drive is initially available at Apple retail stores and the Apple online store. Later this month, the product will be available from additional retailers, etailers and at www.iomega.com.

Both models of the Iomega Helium Portable Hard Drive include a three-year warranty with registration.

For more information about Iomega storage products, please go to www.iomega.com.

Stem Innovation Announces iZON Remote Room Monitor

Are you looking for a security camera that can live stream to your Apple iOS device and even record to YouTube? Then take a look at the iZON Remote Room Monitor.

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App-controlled wireless network video camera streams audio and video
to iPod touch, iPhone and iPad

Stem Innovation, LLC today announced the iZON Remote Room Monitor, an app-controlled video camera that enables live streaming of audio and video to an Apple iOS device, anywhere in the world. iZON easily joins most wireless networks to provide secure remote monitoring via the free Stem:Connect App for iPod touch, iPhone and iPad.

iZON can watch and listen for you, alert you when there is motion or noise and even
record to a free, private YouTube account — automatically

iZON is incredibly easy to setup and use. iZON can be placed on any horizontal surface
or mounted to a ceiling. It tilts and swivels easily on its unique magnetic base.
Download the free Stem:Connect App, then simply plug iZON in and set it up on your
local wireless network. A few simple steps help you to create a secure user account and
begin streaming live audio and video. iZON is peace of mind, connecting you to the
most important people, places and things in your life.

“iZON gives our customers an engaging way to stay connected,” says Gary Bart,
President and CEO of Stem Innovation. “The combination of its incredible ease of use,
automated features and affordable pricing is a game-changer.”

iZON Remote Room Monitor

 

iZON is available today at www.steminnovation.com and in select Best Buy locations.
iZON will be available soon at Apple retail stores across the U.S. and Canada. iZON will
be arriving at all Target retail locations in early October. The suggested retail price is
$129.95.

Stem Innovation is a Florida-based company created in July 2010 by product designer
and industry veteran Gary Bart. Stem is focused on the development of cutting-edge,
app-based accessories.

New HP TouchPad OTA Update Coming Soon

According to CNET, there is a new OTA coming to the HP TouchPad soon.

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Here is what CNET were told:

We expect that HP TouchPad owners can look forward to an over-the-air update that will enhance the platform and add functionality and a growing applications catalog,” an HP spokesperson told CNET today in response to an e-mail query. HP would not elaborate on what those enhancements would be.

HP also said that it is seeing “huge spikes in activations and between 3-5X downloads of apps” as a result of the fire sale launched on August 19.

The most interesting comment was this:

“HP is fully committed to the ongoing support and service of customers who purchased webOS devices…We plan to continue to investigate the best ways to leverage WebOS software and grow the applications,” the spokesperson said.

Ok, so HP are fully committed to an OS that only runs on two devices, both of which they discontinued within weeks of being launched and have no plans to launch any more? I’m sorry, but that sounds a little silly to me!

So let’s see what happens then!

Boxee App Library Updated to Include MOG Instant Music Streaming

Today MOG lands in the Boxee App Library with instant streaming of over 11 million songs, all in better than HD audio (320 kbps).

MOG’s music library blasts and serenades in the highest quality audio available for streaming pretty much anywhere. The massive song library will make sure you’re never searching for more than a few seconds for what you want, whether it’s top pop music hits or traditional Indian classics.

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Create your own playlists or have Mog build a radio station for you based on artists and songs you love for a no-fuss way to keep the music going… and to help you discover bands you’ve never heard of.

So head over to http://www.mog.com/boxee now and sign up for a free 14 day trial now to check out one of the top music streaming services on the web today, now available on Boxee.

Twonky Release TwonkyServer 6.0.36

This week saw Twonky release an update to its TwonkyServer software, bringing it up to version 6.0.36.

What is TwonkyServer?

Here is how Twonky describe it:

Is your Playstation® 3 connected to your home network? Do you have a digital photo frame with a wireless Internet connection, or what about an Internet radio? Provide your favorite devices with that missing link to your computer’s music, video and photo collections. Download the popular, powerful TwonkyServer and truly experience the connected home.
TwonkyServer makes it possible for your devices to retrieve your media files from wherever they’re stored. Using your device’s remote and menu system, view your computer’s media library, or an online media feed, and just press play.

TwonkyServer is available for Windows®, Mac® and Linux, so it will work for any connected home.
If you have Windows Home Server, you can still use TwonkyServer. View this install guide to see if it’s the right option for you.

We even offer a mobile version of our server. Currently available free in the Android™ app store, TwonkyServer Mobile lets you serve music, photos or video from your phone to devices all around the home.

TwonkyServer is part of our TwonkyManager, so if you have a Windows PC and want many amazing features beyond what we offer in TwonkyServer, please see TwonkyManager.

You can choose your platform and download the updates from the Twonky website.

Here is what is included in the update:

– This software update includes a new feature that allows you to wirelessly sync media from your mobile device to your computer. For more information about using this feature with our Twonky Mobile Android app, check out the “Syncing Your Files” section below.
– A new client adaptation was added for Sony Bravia, Sony Blu-Ray Home Theaters and Sony Blu-Ray Players. With this change, all files that could be played through other DLNA servers are now also supported by TwonkyServer.
– Fixed a problem with the web config page not launching that occurred when installing TwonkyServer on a Mac running the Lion OS.
– Fixed YouTube streaming problems
– Information about other improvements and bug fixes can be found in the TwonkyServer release notes, which can be found in the TwonkyServer folder under Program Files\Twonky.

Review of the Aleratec HDD Copy Cruiser Mini

Do you need a hard drive duplicator and docking station? If the answer is yes, then take a look at our review of the Aleratec HDD Copy Cruiser Mini.

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The Aleratec HDD Copy Cruiser Mini is both a powerful HDD duplicator and a versatile HDD docking station in one lightweight, portable device.

This essential tool for building, upgrading and backing up computer systems requires no computer to run, eliminating the need to tie up a computer for hours running complex software to duplicate hard disk drives.

A single button-push is all that is required for a fast 72 MB/sec sector-by-sector copy that includes partition and boot sector information, resulting in perfect clones/backups.

Additionally, connecting the HDD Copy Cruiser Mini to a computer via USB 2.0 gives instant, hot-swappable access to up to two hard disk drives at a time.

  • Sector-by-sector standalone hard disk drive cloning
  • One-button operation for cloning
  • Dual plug-and-play hard disk drive access via USB 2.0
  • Supports both 2.5” and 3.5” SATA I/II hard disk drives
  • Safe and easy hard disk drive quick-release buttons
  • Supports Windows 2000/XP/Vista/7, Mac OS10.3 or later, Linux
  • AC Powered: 100-240V 50-60Hz 1.5A

 

Aleratec HDD Copy Cruiser Mini

 

Who are Aleratec?

From their website:

Aleratec creates “Prosumers’ Choice” professional-grade duplicators for hard disk drives, USB flash drives, flash memory and optical discs (BD/DVD/CD), as well as optical disc publishers, blank media, disc shredders, disc repair and related accessories, at consumer-friendly prices. The company’s commitment to quality and its customers has produced product lines which regularly win industry accolades for their innovation, reliability and ease-of-use.

Headquartered in Southern California, Aleratec’s exceptionally-skilled team of trained professionals design user-friendly, high-performance hardware along with intuitive software to assist corporations and organizations of any size with all their media technology needs. Aleratec’s comprehensive line of innovative products enable businesses to cut costs, streamline workflow and increase revenues.

For over a decade, Aleratec has served as a leading provider of disc duplicating and publishing solutions for specialized markets including government agencies, educational facilities, houses of worship and audio recording professionals.

What’s in the Box?

Along with the HDD Copy Cruiser Mini is a USB 2.0 cable, a power adaptor and cable, an eSATA cable, a quick start guide and a registration card.

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Tranquil Launch the T7Duo PC

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Tranquil PC have launched a new fanless Atom based PC called the T7Duo.

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Dual Core Processor, Dual GBE LAN.

The T7Duo is now available and benefits from over 4 years of T7 design optimisation

The fanless cooled D525 Intel Atom processor delivers outstanding performance / watt.

The onboard Realtek plus the Intel 82574L LAN ensures that your multi ethernet applications will deliver the solution you require.

What do you get

  • T7Duo System
  • Intel Atom D525 CPU
  • HDD – select
  • RAM – select
  • 24 month RTB (return to base) warranty

T7Duo Specs

Prices start at £229 plus VAT.

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Learn more and place your order from here

Home Server Status for Windows Home Server 2011 Version 2.01 Released

Do you miss some of the information you used to see in WHS V1? Well Jerry Wade has written an app that brings that information to WHS 2011 and it’s just been updated to version 2.01.

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This is how Jerry describes this app:

It wasn’t long ago I told my friend, John, about my wonderful WHSv1. He decided to create his own box and use WHS 2011. However, he noticed that the icon did not give him the same information as mine such as, connectivity and backup in progress (eg: blue icon). After pondering over this, I decided to put my limited programming skills to work and develop a home server status application. So, without further hesitation, world, humbly meet: Home Server Status v1.0.

REQUIREMENTS:

  • .NET Framework 4
  • WHS 2011 Connector
  • Windows 7 32/64-bit machine. (Why only Windows 7? Well, it offered the features I wanted to see such as, the overlay icons and taskbar pinning.)

Change log:

  1. Internal clean-up
  2. Added progress to the system tray icon when a backup is running. This way someone can visually see their backup progress without having to hover. See screenshot below.

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Here is the download link for Windows 7 32bit/64bit: HSS v2.01

Two Minute Review – The Gorilla Mobile Yogi for iPad 2 from JOBY

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It’s time for another one of our Two Minute Reviews. This time its the Gorilla Mobile Yogi for iPad 2 from JOBY.

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The Gorilla Mobile Yogi is more than just a stand for your iPad 2. Its a stand that you can position into infinite poses on pretty much any surface!

Who are JOBY?

From their website:

JOBY creates well-designed, revolutionary products that inspire the creative and active lifestyle.

JOBY is a young, high-growth company that revolutionized the camera accessories market in early 2006 with its GorillaPod line of flexible tripods and continues to redefine the consumer electronics market with its GorillaMobile and GorillaTorch product lines. The brand has a strong and loyal following of consumers who are passionate about both innovative design and functional performance. Founded in 2005, JOBY is a privately-held company headquartered in San Francisco, CA, with offices in Santa Cruz, CA; Geneva, Switzerland; Tokyo, Japan; Singapore and Shenzhen, China.

Specifications

Designed for :Apple iPad 2

Materials : Durable polycarbonate, high-quality ABS plastic and TPE grips

Product Dimensions:

Case: 7.5 x 0.5 x 9.7″ (190 x 13 x 246mm);
Legs: 3.1 x 1.3 x 8.8″ (80 x 33 x 223mm)

Product Weight:

Case: 5.2oz (147g);
Legs: 3.9oz (111g)

Price :£34.95

What’s in the Box?

The box contains the Gorilla Mobile Yogi and an instruction manual.

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A Closer Look

The front is where you place your iPad 2, and the back contains the moveable legs.

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You can position them in many different ways very simply.

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The case has rubber buttons on it for accessing the iPad 2’s buttons.

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And you can easily change the orientation by removing the legs and slotting them in the other orientation. It is very simple and takes only a few seconds to do it!

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Using the Gorilla Mobile Yogi

After fitting your iPad 2 into the front of the Yogi, you then just position the legs into whatever position you want to use it in. They can easily bend into a variety of positions.

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You can even wrap them around objects and they hold the Yogi into position firmly and securely. Here you can see my iPad 2 handing from the curtain rail!

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Using the Gorilla Mobile Yogi for iPad 2

 

Final Thoughts

The Gorilla Mobile Yogi is very simple to use, and it can be positioned in many, many different ways and on a variety of surfaces (even and uneven).

I found it very easy to use and it took very little effort to get it into position, whether that was using in on my desk, wrapping it around my leg or hanging it from a curtain rail.

It felt very secure and I wasn’t concerned for a moment that it would drop!

If you have a need to use your iPad 2 in such a way (maybe for the rear of the car wrapped around a headrest) then you should seriously take a look at this, you won’t be disappointed.

The price is £34.95 and is available now from the JOBY website.

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BYOB Podcast Episode 56 Out Now

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The guys over at the BYOB podcast, including our very own Tim Daleo have just released episode 56.

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Here is what is included in this weeks show:

[box style=”rounded” border=”full”]Timekills returns with an update on SSD cahing, Asus k53E review, Llano or i3 HTPC? Corsair Force GT SSD.[/box]

As usual you can listen to the show from here.