Two Minute Review – Iomega Mac Companion Hard Drive

If you have a Mac and you want an external drive that is more than just a drive, take a look at our latest two minute review of the Iomega Mac Companion Hard Drive.

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The Iomega Mac Companion Hard Drive includes 2 fast FireWire 800 interfaces, a USB 2.0 hub, plus a FireWire 400 to 800 cable. Styled to match the latest Mac computers, it also includes a convenient USB charging/syncing port for your iPad, iPod or iPhone device. The space saving design fits perfectly on the Apple iMac base or on your Apple monitor. With multiple interfaces you can easily add other peripherals like a printer or other external storage. It includes a handy capacity gauge on the front and fast 7200 RPM drive speed.

Who are Iomega?

From their website:

Iomega Corporation, a wholly owned subsidiary of EMC Corporation headquartered in San Diego, is a worldwide leader in innovative storage and network security solutions for small businesses, home offices, consumers and others. The Company has sold more than 410 million digital storage drives and disks since its inception in 1980. Today, Iomega’s product portfolio includes industry leading network attached storage products, external hard drives, multimedia drives, and our award-winning removable storage technology, the REV® Backup Drive.

Features

  • Fast: Fast transfer speeds available including FireWire 800 and USB 2.0 connections; 7200 RPM drive speed
  • Multiple Connections: One USB 2.0 port, two FireWire 800 ports and a two port integrated USB 2.0 hub* lets you connect multiple devices
  • Feature-rich: Styled to match the latest Mac computers; Stacks on the iMac base or Mac monitor; HFS+ for ease of use right out of the box; USB port (2.1 Amp) to charge/sync your iPad, iPod or iPhone device*
  • Capacity Gauge: Capacity gauge on front lets you know how much storage is available on the hard drive**
  • Warranty: Three year limited warranty with product registration

* The Mac Companion must be connected to the computer via USB in order to use the USB hub or the charge/sync port.
** Requires software utility install to enable capacity gauge feature

 

Specifications

System Requirements

  • One USB 2.0 port
  • Two FireWire 800 ports
  • Two port integrated USB 2.0 hub (The Mac Companion must be connected to the computer via USB in order to use the USB hub or the charge/sync port)
  • Preformatted in HFS+
  • Compatible with PC and Mac®
  • Transfer rates of 480 Mbits/s when connected to a USB 2.0 controller; up to 800 Mbits when connected to a FireWire 800 controller
  • Memory cache of 8MB or better
  • Three year limited warranty with product registration within 90 days of purchase
  • Power Mac® G3 or greater
  • Built-in USB or FireWire 800/400 connection
  • FireWire 800 (1394a)/USB 1.1: Mac OS X 10.5 – 10.7 (drive performance will be reduced using a USB 1.1 connection)
  • USB 2.0: Mac OS 10.5 or higher
  • 128MB RAM or higher as required by operating system

Dimensions: 1.75″ H x 5.82″ W x 7.77″ L
Weight: 4.54 pounds

What’s in the Box?

  • Iomega® Mac Companion Hard Drive
  • USB 2.0 Cable
  • FireWire® 800 Cable
  • FireWire® 400 to 800 Cable (for 1394b to 1394a conversion)
  • Power Supply
  • Quick Start Guide
  • Iomega Protection Suite Software via Download
    • Trend Micro™ Smart Surfing software for Mac – 1 year FREE subscription via download – $59.99 value
    • Iomega QuikProtect
    • MozyHome™ Online Backup service (2GB Free)

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Want to Beta Test the New Version of Microsoft Security Essentials?

Microsoft yesterday opened the registration process to be a beta tester of the new version of it’s Security Essentials software. Want to be a part of the testing?

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Here is what Microsoft said:

Today we announce that the Beta for the next version of Microsoft Security Essentials is open for registration.

Do you want to try out our latest innovations in protection and performance?

Are you interested in helping to improve Security Essentials?

The number of users than can participate in the Beta is limited, so sign up today and we will notify you once the Beta is available for download. We anticipate the Microsoft Security Essentials beta to be available to the general public by the end of the year.

New features in the Beta of Microsoft Security Essentials include:

  • Enhanced protection through automatic malware remediation – The Beta will clean high-impact malware infections automatically, with no required user interaction.
  • Enhanced performance – The Beta includes many performance improvements to make sure your PC performance isn’t negatively impacted.
  • Simplified UI – Simplified UI makes Microsoft Security Essentials Beta easier to use.
  • New and improved protection engine – The updated engine offers enhanced detection and cleanup capabilities.

The Security Essentials team

I have been running Security Essentials since the very early beta and I am very happy with the product, and can’t wait to see what the new version has to offer!

What about you?

ITV Player App for iOS Updated to Version 1.2

The ITV Player app for the iPhone and iPad has been updated to version 1.2, bringing with it iOS 5 support.

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Description

ITV Player on iOS is ITV’s new video catch-up service for mobile and tablet devices. This is the first iOS application that allows you to view ITV programmes on your handset – we hope you enjoy using it and would love to hear your feedback as we enhance the application.

You can watch all ITV programmes that we have the rights to show on mobile, for up to seven days after broadcast.

– Works on your iOS mobile and tablet devices – iPhone and iPad
– Requires a WiFi connection to play programmes
– Catch up on programmes from ITV1, ITV2, ITV3 and ITV4
– Free to download with unlimited usage
– Browse recommended programmes
– Search for programmes by channel or alphabetically
– Navigate using portrait or landscape orientation

To use this application you need a mobile phone or tablet device that runs iOS 4.3 and is connected to wireless internet.

You must be in the UK to view our programmes. People in some regions will be restricted to only viewing ITV2, ITV3 and ITV4 programmes. For more information, please see our support pages.

When you first use the app, we give you the option to submit your email address. This is so we can keep you informed about improvements and other exciting developments at ITV. You can unsubscribe at any time using the link in the welcome email that you will receive.

What’s New In Version 1.2

– iOS5 support
– General bug fixes and improvements

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SlingPlayer for Facebook Now Available

Sling have introduced the SlingPlayer for Facebook.

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When connected to a Slingbox SOLO or PRO-HD you can extend your complete living room TV experience from SlingPlayer for Facebook. Change channels, control your DVR and watch your favorite shows wherever you are.

SlingPlayer for Facebook

Check out the SlingPlayer app in Facebook

Here is what Sling also posted:

You can now use ANY browser that supports the latest version of Flash to get your Sling on – search for the SlingPlayer app in the Facebook search bar, follow the installation instructions and enjoy your Slingbox (almost as much as you enjoy getting Farmville updates from that one guy you think you knew in high school).

Note that you need a Slingbox PRO-HD or SOLO with the latest firmware installed to use SlingPlayer for Facebook.

Have you tried it? Let us know what you think…..

Firecore Updates Seas0nPass Jailbreak Tools Package for AppleTV 4.4.3 Users

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Seas0nPass has been updated to support a tethered jailbreak of the new AppleTV 4.4.3 software.

Here is what they said:

Seas0nPass has been updated to support a TETHERED jailbreak of the new AppleTV 4.4 (iOS 5) software released on 10/12/2011 (also supported are the new minor updates – 4.4.1 released on 10/17/11 and 4.4.2 released on 10/24/11). Full details on what’s new in 4.4, status of 3rd party features, and how to update are below.

Should I update?

Currently the jailbreak for 4.4+ is tethered, which is a bit less convenient than an untethered version. If the features added in 4.4 excite you it may be worth updating; however, the previous 4.3 version will continue to be supported so updating is not required.

The full list of changes included in 4.4 is below:

  • AirPlay Mirroring: Now with video mirroring – wirelessly stream what’s on your iPad 2 screen to your HDTV.
  • Photo Stream: View photos recently taken on your iOS device and pushed to your Photo Stream in iCloud.
  • Trailers: A whole new way to browse and view hundreds of the latest theatrical trailers.
  • National Hockey League: Watch live games. View highlights, scores, and more.
  • Wall Street Journal Live: Watch up-to-date news, business commentary, and financial analysis from leading experts.

Apple has also added support for subtitles in Netflix and three new slideshow themes: Photo Wall, Flip-up, and Shifting Tiles.

Which plugins are supported on 4.4?

  • Media Player (works)
  • Couch Surfer (works)
  • Last.fm (works)
  • Weather (works)
  • RSS Feeds (works)
  • NitoTV (works)
  • Overflow (works)
  • Remote HD (works)
  • XBMC (nightly builds only)
  • Plex (not working)
  • Rowmote (not working)

How do I update?

Seas0nPass will default to the latest untethered version, which is currently 4.3. If you want to use Seas0nPass to update and jailbreak a newer version simply follow the steps below.

  1. Download version 4.4.2 (9A336a) and save the IPSW in an easy to find location.
  2. Download the latest version of Seas0nPass.
  3. Open Seas0nPass then Option + click (Mac) or Shift + click (PC) the Create IPSW button and select the new IPSW file that was downloaded in step #1.
  4. Seas0nPass will complete the jailbreak and restore process automatically.
  5. After the restore is complete, move the AppleTV to your TV and follow the steps for performing a Tethered Boot.

Enjoy. 🙂

Update: It seems Apple has taken down the 4.4.1 AppleTV update due a number of reported issues. For now 4.4 is the recommended version for those wishing to update.

Update 2: Looks like the 4.4.1 version has been re-released.

Update 3: Seas0nPass has been updated to support AppleTV 4.4.2 which was released on 10/24.

Update 4: Seas0nPass has been updated to support AppleTV 4.4.3 – released on 11/17.

Android Client for DVBLink Connect! Server Updated to version 1.1.1

DVBLogic have just updated their Android Client for DVBLink Connect! Server, taking it to version 1.1.1.

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Watch Live TV, browse EPG, view program details, manage timer recordings from your Android mobile phone or tablet.

What’s in this version

  1. v1.1.1
  2. Added EPG search functionality

This app requires DVBLink Connect! Server installation on the server computer.

Get it now from the Android Market

Special Offer from CloudBerry Labs for CloudBerry Backup for WHS

Our friends at CloudBerry Labs have been in touch to let us know about a special offer they are running at the moment for CloudBerry Backup for WHS.

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The offer, which runs until December 1st, is a whopping 30% off of CloudBerry Backup for WHS, which brings the price for this add-in down to $20.99.

CloudBerry Backup features:

  • Secure online storage (Amazon S3, Azure, Google Storage and other)
  • WHS control panel integration (easy access)
  • Scheduling Wizard (automate your backup process)
  • Block Level Backup (backup only changed portions of the files)
  • Drive Extender support (back up data on Shared Folders managed by Drive Extender)
  • Local backup with encryption, compression & versioning

And even more cool features coming soon:

  • Instant backup (automate backup of changed files)
  • Bandwidth configuration for different day/night time
Take up this limited time offer here

IOGEAR Advances Video Streaming with Wireless 3D Digital Kit

IOGEAR have just announced a wireless 3D digital kit for streaming your audio and video.

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The latest A/V streaming kit wirelessly transmits 1080p HD / 3D video content and 5.1 digital audio up to 100 feet, through standard walls.

  • Wireless 3D & HD audio / video streaming up to 100 ft.* away through standard home walls
  • Multi-room – Delivers content to asecond location at the same time:
    – Living room HDTV can connect to transmitters loop-through (local) port directly
    – Bedroom HDTV can receive content from wireless receiver
  • Connect and wirelessly transmit content from your 3D / Blu-ray / DVD player and DVR / Set-top box
  • Wireless 3D support
  • Wireless Full HD 1080p and 5.1 channel digital audio
  • Video Resolutions: 480p, 720p, 1080i and 1080p (24 / 30 / 60fps)
  • HDMI Inputs / Outputs :
    – Transmitter:
    2 x HDMI in
    1 x HDMI out (loop-through local port)
    – Receiver
    1 x HDMI output
  • Create the floating HDTV in almost any location such as bedroom, family room, living room, den, loft or kitchen
  • Keep home theater electronic devices neatly out-of-sight
  • Built-in IR allows the user control over their source devices that are hidden away in a different location
  • No software or driver installation needed
  • HDCP Compliant

*Distances may vary depending on environment; solid objects such as steel, concrete and brick may view shorter distances

Here is the press release:

Foothill Ranch, Calif. – November 8, 2011 – IOGEAR, a leader in convergence
through connectivity products, announces the Wireless 3D Digital Kit (GW3DHDKIT),
which reduces cable clutter and provides flexible and reliable 1080p HD and
3D content for up to two rooms. Relying on the 5GHz wireless spectrum, the Wireless
3D Digital Kit does not require a line-of-sight placement, and delivers uncompressed
full 1080p, 3D content and 5.1 digital audio up to 100 feet.

The IOGEAR Wireless 3D Digital Kit consists of a transmitter and receiver with
connections that allow it to stream standard, HD or 3D resolution content from
up to two HDMI® enabled devices. Included with the kit are an IR blast cable,
a remote control, and two power adapters. To add a second room, one HDTV can
connect directly to the transmitter’s loop-through (local) port, while a second
HDTV simultaneously receives content via the wireless receiver. A “Floating
HDTV” can be set up by connecting two HD or 3D media sources to the wireless
transmitter while a wall-mounted TV receives content from the connected wireless
receiver.

The Wireless 3D Digital Kit is housed in a sleek black casing with rounded
edges, giving it a modern but understated appearance. The unobtrusive transmitter,
receiver, IR blast cable and remote control underscore just what a powerful
device the Wireless 3D Digital Kit really is. Streaming high-bandwidth 3D and
1080p content up to 100 feet is made possible by the use of 5GHz technology,
which is generally less susceptible to network interference and can carry more
data than its 2.4 GHz relative.

By supporting devices such as 3D Blu-ray and DVD players, DVR/set-top boxes
and game consoles, the Wireless 3D Digital Kit allows users to keep their components
neatly out-of-sight and keep the focus on their celebrated HD or 3D TVs. Perfect
as a DIY retrofit solution, the built-in Infrared (IR) pass-though allows user
control over source devices that are hidden away in a different location. Additionally,
the GW3DHDKIT is HDCP 2.0 Compliant and requires no software or driver installation.

“Our Wireless 3D Digital Kit advances the technology of streaming A/V
content and is a perfect fit for those who already have a 3D display or are
planning to get one,” said Bill Nguyen, Senior Marketing Manager for IOGEAR.
“The GW3DHDKIT offers an easy, affordable way to stream both HD and 3D
entertainment discretely with multiple retrofit and installation options.”

For its initial launch, the Wireless 3D Digital Kit will be available online
at Costco.com. A nationwide roll-out that includes shopIOGEAR.com, brick and
mortar retailers and online resellers will happen in later in Q4 2011. MSRP
of the Wireless 3D Digital Kit is $379.95.

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Learn more from the IOGEAR website

CyberLink Releases Video and Photo Creative Collection

Yesterday Cyberlink announced the release of their new Video and Photo Creative Collection, which includes PowerDirector 10 and PhotoDirector 2011.

Cyberlink Video and Photo Collection

Here is the press release:

London — November 17, 2011 — CyberLink Corp. (5203.TW) today launched its new solution for digital videography and photography – Video & Photo Creative Collection. The value-priced collection combines the world’s fastest video editing software PowerDirector 10, and our new professional-quality photo software PhotoDirector 2011, together allowing users to turn digital videos into pro-quality productions and photos into masterpieces.

“Digital photos and videos have become increasingly popular with many families using camcorders, DSLRs or digital cameras to capture the events of their day-to-day lives.” said Alice H. Chang, CEO of CyberLink, “With our new Creative Collection we’ve sought to offer our customers an all-in-one solution that they can use to enhance and preserve those precious moments.”

PowerDirector 10: Award-Winning Video Editing Software

Creating pro-like video has never been so easy. In PowerDirector 10, CyberLink’s unique TrueVelocity 2 video rendering engine has been enhanced to dramatically improve the speed of the editing process. Users will also welcome over 300 new features and enhancements, including a choice of 3 different editing modes, integration of pro-quality plug-ins from third-party partners, free-hand painting tools, time lapse controls, and the most comprehensive set of 3D video editing tools available today.

PhotoDirector 2011: Pro-Quality Photo Editing Software

Offering a smooth and intuitive import-to-output workflow, PhotoDirector 2011 allows users to transform their photos into masterpieces! In addition to supporting a large number of file formats, the product offers native rendering of RAW files from Canon and Nikon cameras, a feature that maintains the immaculate quality of original images without the hassle of installing plug-ins. PhotoDirector introduces a wide array of powerful adjustment tools that can be applied in a non-destructive editing environment.

DirectorZone.com: World’s Largest Video & Photo Editing Community

In addition to outstanding video and photo editing features, PowerDirector and PhotoDirector users can share their own presets and download user-generated effects via CyberLink’s online community for video and photo lovers, DirectorZone. Customers can join over 2 million other users with access to more than 225,000 free effects, titles, menus and tutorials.

Product Availability

CyberLink Video & Photo Creative Collection is available today and can be purchased from the CyberLink online store. It is available in the following languages: English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Chinese (Simplified and Traditional), Japanese, Korean.

CyberLink Video and Photo Creative Collection

PowerDirector 10 plus PhotoDirector 2011:             UK £114.99

Roku Streaming Boxes Coming to the UK in 2012

Yesterday Roku announced that their streaming boxes would be coming to the UK in 2012.

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Here is the press release:

Roku Streaming Platform Now Open to Content Providers and Developers in UK and Canada

SARATOGA, Calif., Nov 17, 2011 (BUSINESS WIRE) — Roku, the leading streaming platform in the U.S. today announced plans for international expansion. Roku expects that consumers in the United Kingdom and Canada will be able to purchase Roku streaming players beginning in early 2012. Roku is expanding its open platform to support region-specific channels. Publishers of video, music, games and other Internet-delivered content can now reach their customers’ TVs directly through Roku. Content can be free, ad supported or paid. Those interested in developing for Roku should contact partners@roku.com.

Roku launched the first Netflix streaming player in 2008 and is now the leading streaming platform in the U.S. With more than 350 channels of content, Roku delivers the best collection of streaming entertainment available for the TV. Roku’s open streaming platform brings new content providers to the TV screen and expands the offerings of existing platforms such as channels found on traditional cable and satellite networks.

“This year has been one of many accomplishments for Roku in the U.S. In July, we introduced Roku 2 which brings casual games to the TV and last month we unveiled the $49.99 Roku LT. We’ve added casual games including Angry Birds and PAC-MAN as well as premiere channels including HBO GO,” said Roku Founder and CEO Anthony Wood. “And now we’re looking forward to kicking off 2012 by expanding to Europe and Canada and providing consumers abroad with the best in streaming entertainment — a natural evolution for Roku.”

To make Roku players available in Canada, Roku is working with Synnex Canada Limited, a subsidiary of SYNNEX Corporation SNX -0.47%.

So that will be another streaming box on the market here. What do you think about this announcement? Are you likely to buy one?