What is Windows Home Server?

CES 2012 – Samsung’s Transparent Smart Window

Andrew Edney

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Jan 14, 2012

CES 2012 – Samsung’s Transparent Smart Window

One of the very cool new things Samsung showed off at CES 2012 was their Transparent Smart Window. We take a look at it, or should that be through it?

This technology isn’t available yet, although it will be available during this year, so it isn’t one of those “available in 20 years” demos. This was probably the coolest thing I saw at CES this year, and it really reminded me of Minority Report with Tom Cruise!

It was tucked away in the outer corner of Samsung’s booth and as you can imagine there were always people crowding around, which is why the video and pictures I took are not the best!

Here is a short video we took (apologies for the quality):

UWHS–Samsung’s Transparent Smart Window

Here is Samsung’s video (which is a lot better):

CES 2012 – A Demo of Synology DiskStation Manager 4

Andrew Edney

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Jan 14, 2012

5

CES 2012 – A Demo of Synology DiskStation Manager 4

Earlier we told you that the beta of the new DSM 4 software from Synology would be out on Monday, now we have a video of it in action.

Some of the additions and improvements include:

iSCSI LUN backup software is included- saving thousands in licensing fees
Enhanced ADS/ACL support- edit and audit ACLs quickly and easily within DSM, regardless of OS
Flexible notification system, allowing granular control of alerts and delivery methods (email, IM, push notifications)
Improved Apple support- added support for Airport Express/Extreme and integration with
iCloud saves time in configuration
Scheduled SMART scans to keep admins in the know before problems arise
Revamped GUI with powerful and intuitive tools to improve work flow for both novice and advanced users
Improved Package Management- most applications (ie. Photo Station, Surveillance Station, etc.) are now packages, added at need
Antivirus package- free antivirus scanning for the DiskStation
Enhanced mobile support- updated apps for iOS, Android (including tablets), and Amazon Kindle Fire

As promised, here is a short video of DSM 4 in action:

A demo of Synology DSM 4

And don’t forget that the beta will be available on Monday, so check here then!

StableBit DrivePool Moves to Beta M4 Build 5417

Andrew Edney

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Jan 14, 2012

0

StableBit DrivePool Moves to Beta M4 Build 5417

There has been another beta build from CoveCube! StableBit development marches on – now its beta M4 build 5417.

Here is how CoveCube describes this application:

Combine all your hard drives into one big storage pool (except the system drive with the OS).
Add and remove drives from the pool at any time without re-partitioning or manually moving folders.
Create duplicated folders on the storage drive pool that are protected against single drive failure. If a drive fails on which a duplicated file was stored, the contents of that file will remain readable even without the drive.
All your data is stored in standard NTFS files. You can always access your files even if the Windows Home Server completely crashes or this add-in can’t be used.

This version’s change log:

1.0.0.5417
———-
* [D] Fixed directory listing. Sometimes it would incorrectly tell the caller that there are no more files.
* [D] Changed disk buffer access one more time to use exception handling instead of relying on WDF.

Get More Information About the Beta Here Download Stablebit Drivepool build 5417 here

WHS 2011 Add-In Update : Drive Bender Tomcat Beta 2

Andrew Edney

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Jan 14, 2012

0

Drive Bender, the add-in for Windows Home Sever 2011 that replaces Drive Extender, has a beta for it’s forthcoming Tomcat release taking it to version 1.2.3.5.

What is it?

Drive Bender is state of the art, single point storage pool technology for Microsoft Windows. Drive Bender presents multiple hard drives as a single pool of data storage, either as one or more drive letters, or a network shared drive. Drive Bender is able to do this with any drive recognized by Windows, including external drive such as USB, Firewire etc.

Expandability

Drive Bender also provides the user with the ability to seamless expand their storage pool by simply adding a new drive. Adding a new drive expands the pool by the size of the new drive. Existing data within the pool is redistributed to the new drive to ensure the pool remain balanced.

Drive merging and converting

Drive Bender also offers a merge capability, allowing users to take a drive that contains data, and merge that drive (and data) into the pool. In addition there is also a drive conversion feature. This can take and existing drive letter (mounted against a physical drive) and convert this into a pooled drive. Once completed, new hard drives can be added to expand the once fixed drive.

Data redundancy

To further ensure data safety, Drive Bender can automatically duplicate any file added to a Drive Bender pool. File duplication is determined at the folder level and occurs on the fly as data is being written to the pool. More importantly, files are only duplicated across physical drives ensuring maximum safety and data redundancy.

Non-destructive

One of the key Drive Bender features is its non-destructive file system technology. In short, this means that all drives within a Drive Bender pool are utilizing standard NTFS format and file structures. This is to such an extent that a drive can be pulled from the pool and read on any machine capable of reading an NTFS formatted drive. More over, drives attached to the pool can be done so without modification, if a drive is added (not merged) that contains existing data, that data will remain untouched.

Ease to try

Because of our non-destructive file system, taking Drive Bender for a test drive is easy. Simply specify the drives to be included in the pool, and you are ready go. The drives are not formatted (unless specified), the only change made to the drive is the addition of a folder that holds the contents of the pool and a small number of configuration files.

The technology

Drive Bender employs existing, proven kernel mode file system technology. Having spent many years developing kernel mode drivers, we are able to use this experience to great extent. The end result is a product whose performance will closely match that of the underlying drive.

The story

Early in 2010 we prototyped a Drive Extender style application with the view of releasing a product that would work with all versions of Microsoft Windows. However soon thereafter, Microsoft announced Vail (a new version of Windows Home Server) and a small business server product, codename Aurora, both of which contain their Drive Extender technology. Given this, and the possibility that Drive Extend may well make its way to other Microsoft platforms, we shelved the project.

However later that same year, Microsoft announced that they would be dropping Drive Extender from all their products (including Windows Home Server 2011), leaving the door open for Division-M to resurrect the Drive Bender project!

Release v1.2.3.5 beta (2012-01-14)

– Bug fix: The pool could lockup under certain conditions (issue is caused by the named (alternate) stream support previously introduced, as a result this has been removed for the time being).
– Bug fix: BSOD could occur on systems running MSE.
– Update: The health monitor has been improved and now sleeps after each scan (currently this sleep time is 96 hours).
– Update: The pool file count meta-data is now persisted across reboots.
– Update: Client / server security has been introduced. This feature uses the Windows authentication system.
– Update: Client / server networking is now fully encrypted using AES.
– Update: Folder time stamping has been improved and now works as per the NTFS spec.

Download the Windows version
Download the WHS version
Download the client version

Important notes regarding this beta.
1) To install on a system running v1.2.2.2 (or earlier), simply install over the top of the existing installation.
2) If you experience an issues with this beta and wish to go back to v1.2.2.2, you are able to install v1.2.2.2 straight over the top of this beta.

Synology DiskStation Manager 4.0 Beta Out Monday

Andrew Edney

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Jan 14, 2012

1

Synology DiskStation Manager 4.0 Beta Out Monday

Yesterday we brought you news about Synology’s DiskStatation Manager 4.0 beta coming out, but it wasn’t available at the time.

We spent some time with Synology today at CES, and they told us that the beta will be available on Monday, so check here then! Above is a screenshot of the beta!

Having seen a demo, it’s really good (more of that shortly with a video).

CES 2012 – Hands-on with the Sony Xperia S Smartphone

Andrew Edney

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Jan 14, 2012

1

CES 2012 – Hands-on with the Sony Xperia S Smartphone

Here at CES, we got some hands-on time with the new Sony Xperian S smartphone.

The Xperia S is Sony’s first Flagship smartphone, sporting an iconic new design and allowing you to enjoy everything about the device in full HD. Take snaps with the 12 MP camera and view on the 4.3-inch crystal clear LCD HD Reality display, or record HD videos and share it all on your HD TV, straight from your Xperia S. The 1.3 MP front facing camera means you can also stay in touch with friends and family via HD video chat!

Features of the Xperia S include:
·         12 MP Camera with 16x digital zoom, autofocus, 3D Sweep Panorama and 1.3 MP front facing camera
·         1080p HD Video Recording and playback, with HD 720p for video chat
·         Bluetooth® technology v 3.0
·         4.3 inch capacitive touchscreen with LCD HD display
·         1280 x 720 pixel resolution
·         1.5GHz Qualcomm MSM8260 dual core processor
·         1GB(RAM) + 32GB Flash memory eMMC
·         Google Android 2.3 (Gingerbread) operating system
·         3D Games and Music player with 3D surround sound
·         HDMI support

The quality of the screen is amazing, probably one of the best I have seen. Here are a few pictures showing full motion video (obviously you can’t tell just how amazing it is from a picture, so if you can get a demo, take a look):

The Xperia S is very light weight and easy to use – I really didn’t want to have to give it back.

Here we have a video with Sony’s Ranson Burkette:

The Sony Xperia S Phone

I really liked the Xperia S, it is certainly a phone I would seriously consider buying.

And thanks again to Ranson for the demo.

Learn more about the many features of the Xperia S from the Sony website

Skype 5.5 Beta for Mac Available Now

Apple
News

Andrew Edney

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Jan 13, 2012

0

Skype have released a beta of Skype 5.5 for Mac, and it brings with it some fixes and improvements quality.

Key updates for the newly released build, 5.5.0.2069 are:

Improved Call UI
Accept incoming call with video
Improvements in quality and stabilization

Improved Call UI

Skype have improved the discoverability of Call UI like Windows and iOS that users can easily mute, send video, share screen, send file and add people during a call.

Accept incoming call with video

Now users can easily accept incoming call with or without video.

You can down the beta from here.

And I wanted to say thanks to Microsoft who have had a number of laptops running Skype here at CES 2012 providing free calls home – it was very much appreciated!

CES 2012 : UWHS Has a SHOCKING Time with ioSafe

Andrew Edney

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Jan 13, 2012

0

CES 2012 : UWHS Has a SHOCKING Time with ioSafe

Last year we blasted an ioSafe hard drive with a shotgun, this year, we were in for a shock! Literally!

ioSafe have a new Thunderbolt drive coming out in a few months time.

To show that it is capable of surviving electric shocks they decide to go all out and blast it with a million volts from a Tesla coil – yes, you read that correctly, a Tesla coil.

We all had to stand in a Faraday Cage while this took place.

As usual, ioSafe took a drive, created a file on the drive with text from various participants at the event, and then past it over to Dr MegaVolt.

Dr MegaVolt was going to be standing with the Tesla Coil holding the drive, so he had a special suit to wear.

Here is the video of the Tesla coil in action. Unfortunately the recording cut out just as the hard drive was hit, but I am happy to say that the drive survived and worked perfectly afterwards.

SHOCKING!!!!

We will be reviewing the drive later in the year. I can’t wait to see what ioSafe do next year!

CES 2012–Griffin Technology Introduces StudioConnect and MIDIConnect for iOS

Gadgets
Tech

Jim McCarthy

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Jan 13, 2012

0

Griffin Technology announced two new products to help musicians create using iPads. Read on for details!

Compact and portable solutions that enable musicians to create and edit music on-the-go and at a fraction of the cost of a recording studio
Las Vegas – January 10, 2012 –

Griffin Technology, one of the world’s foremost creators of innovations for everyday life, is excited to unveil two new additions to its lineup of music creation accessories.
MIDIConnect joins Griffin’s GuitarConnect Pro in providing compact, go-anywhere input solutions for iPad, iPhone or iPod touch. StudioConnect is the ultimate tracking, editing and overdubbing companion for GarageBand. The desktop unit serves as an all-in-one interface for audio, MIDI-In and MIDI-Out as well as a charging dock for the iPad device.
“GarageBand has put powerful audio production tools within reach of any musician with an idea and an iPad,” said Mark Rowan, President of Griffin Technology. “We’ve made it easy to connect your real instruments with GarageBand and control every aspect of your project.”
The multipurpose StudioConnect for iPad combines both audio and MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) recording into one compact device that also simultaneously charges the iPad. StudioConnect takes recording music on the iPad to an entirely new level giving aspiring musicians a chance to produce professional sounding recordings.

With StudioConnect the audio in and out is simple:

Audio In – Complete with its own gain control. Plug in your instrument through a mono 1/4″ jack or plug a mixer into StudioConnect’s stereo 3.5mm jack.
Audio Out – Left and right line-level RCA plugs. Also a 3.5 mm stereo headphone jack with its own volume knob helps monitor what’s going in and out.

MIDI in and out is equally straightforward:

MIDI In – Connect your MIDI controller through a standard 5-pin DIN MIDI-in port.
MIDI Out – A second 5-pin DIN connector accepts a sequencer, sound module or other MIDI gear, allowing your iPad and favorite MIDI apps to act as a MIDI controller.

Specifically for MIDI, Griffin’s MIDIConnect adds a MIDI input and output to iOS devices. It’s easy to use, and allows you to plug MIDI keyboards and other MIDI-capable devices into an iPad, iPod touch or iPhone. Use it to play your MIDI instrument straight into GarageBand or other popular MIDI apps. Both MIDI in and out ports are industry-standard 5-pin DIN connectors, compatible with most commonly-available MIDI cables and connectors.
MIDIConnect will be available this spring for $79.99. StudioConnect will be available in February for $149.99 at www.griffintechnology.com.

Available today is Griffin’s Premium AUX Cable, a perfect solution to connect your iPhone, iPod, MP3 player, iPad, laptop and other devices to the AUX-in port of your car stereo, as well as your home entertainment system, and most other audio jacks. Gold plated stereo connectors and 22-guage twisted copper cabling delivers a fourfold improvement over standard AUX cables by lowering signal loss due to resistance and interference. Only 1.2 mm thick, the Premium AUX Cable lies flat to resist kinking, resulting in a cleaner and more organized installation. Six feet in length, the cable is complete with 1/8” (3.5 mm) gold-plated stereo-mini connectors. Available in white, yellow, red, blue and black the Premium AUX Cableis $29.99.

To learn more about Griffin’s music accessories, visit www.griffintechnology.com/music.
For additional information about Griffin products, visit www.griffintechnology.com and follow Griffin on Facebook, www.facebook.com/griffintech, and on Twitter, @griffintech.

About Griffin Technology
Founded on Paul Griffin’s kitchen table in 1992, Griffin Technology Inc., is today one of the world’s foremost creators of accessories for home, mobile and personal technology. Unique products such as iTrip®, PowerMate®, iFM®, iMic® and Evolve® Wireless Speaker System have broken new ground in consumer electronics and created loyal fans the world over. Today, Griffin products are conceived, designed and developed in-house, and continue to push the envelope of the industry they helped create. Learn more about Griffin’s entire range of ingenious designs at www.griffintechnology.com. Follow Griffin Technology on http://www.facebook.com/griffintech and on Twitter, @griffintech.

CES 2012–MMT Intros Mobile Display for Apple Devices, Smart Phones, Tablets and Notebooks

Gadgets
Tech

Jim McCarthy

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Jan 13, 2012

0

Mobile Monitor Technologies (MMT) announced a new mobile monitor at CES. Read on for details!

Have you ever wished that you could have a second monitor to go with you on the road? MMT has exactly that! They announced the Monitor2Go at CES this week.

MMT Intros Mobile Display for Apple Devices, Smart Phones, Tablets and Notebooks

Innovative Design Encases Apple’s iPad2 and works with other Mobile Devices

LAS VEGAS, Nev. and BOSTON, Mass., January 10, 2012 – CES 2012 – Mobile Monitor Technologies (MMT), innovator and maker of the world’s first mobile display, introduced a product at the CES 2012 Showstoppers Media Event that extends the share, work, and watch capabilities of portable displays beyond notebooks and PCs, across the universe of mobile devices.

Monitor2Go is a 15.6″ LCD LED-backlit display that redefines the entire mobile monitor category. Monitor2Go boasts a 1600×900 HD+ screen that not only extends the displays of USB enabled notebooks and PCs, it also mirrors the displays of Apple devices (iPad, iPhone and iPod) and HDMI compatible smart phones and tablets, as well as carries, protects, and locks the iPad2.

“Our Field Monitor Pro, which launched and defined the world’s portable display category, was a huge success for business professionals and consumers alike,” said Larry Pensack, President of MMT. “It is used widely for business applications and general multi-tasking, while many also enjoy it for larger screen viewing of movies, videos, and photos. Now, Monitor2Go adds those benefits, and more, to mobile devices.”

An industry first, the patent-pending Monitor2Go is constructed in sleek and rugged aluminum designed specifically to house, lock, and transport the iPad2 as well as work with other mobile devices. And with over 140,000 apps for the iPad, there are likely to be unlimited uses for Monitor2Go’s large, fully rotatable display. For example:

Share – Rotate Monitor2Go’s 15.6″ HD+ screen to share bright, vivid presentations, videos, games, apps, and more.
Work – Eliminate squinting and hunching over a small screen, with nearly triple the screen real estate of the average tablet. For the notebook, Monitor2Go will extend or mirror the screen for up to 30 percent more productivity as compared to single screen computing.
Watch – Connect any phone or media player with HDMI, and you’ve got a mobile theater. Movies, TV shows, home video and photo slideshows in crisp HD wherever you go.

Monitor2Go Features
• 15.6″ HD+ (1600 x 900) screen
• One inch thick, under three pounds, yet fully protected aluminum and ABS construction
• HDMI input, USB mini-B input and two spare USB A inputs
• Works with all USB Windows and Mac laptops and desktops
• Daisy chain up to 6 Monitor2Gos through DisplayLink USB virtual graphics
• Works with HDMI devices – tablets, smart phones, DVD players and more
• Carry, protect, and locks the iPad2
• 180 degree screen pivot and rotation, with landscape and portrait modes
• Audio jack output for speakers and headphones when using HDMI input
• Optional numeric keypad/trackpad accessory
• Optional VESA mounting bracket for wall hanging

Availability and Pricing
Monitor2Go and a new model of the popular Field Monitor Pro will be available in early Q2 of 2012 with list prices under $300. To preorder, visit http://www.mmt2.com.

About MMT
Massachusetts-based Mobile Monitor Technologies, LLC (MMT) (http://www.mmt2.com) specializes in lightweight durable portable displays for mobile professionals and consumers. MMT’s industry’s first, Field Monitor Pro, has enabled thousands of professionals to enjoy the productivity benefits of dual displays while out of their offices. With MMT’s latest entries, mobile device users also can enjoy the share, work, and watch benefits of portable displays at work, on the road, and at home.

CES 2012–IK Multimedia announces iRig MIX

Gadgets
Tech

Jim McCarthy

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Jan 13, 2012

0

IK Multimedia announced iRig MIX, a mixing device for iPod, iPad and iPhone devices. Read on for details!

Have you ever wanted to mix music while on the road? Well, then, this device may be for you! IK Multimedia has introduced the iRig MIX to allow you to do just that. Here are the press release details.

IK Multimedia announces iRig MIX
The first mobile mixer for iPhone, iPod touch, iPad for DJ’ing anytime, everywhere

January 2012 – IK Multimedia is proud to announce iRig™ MIX, the first mobile mixer for iPhone, iPod touch or iPad devices. iRig MIX offers the same controls you would expect from a professional DJ mixer (crossfader, cues, EQ and volume controls, etc.) in an ultra-compact mobile mixer that can be used with a huge variety of iOS DJ mixing and other apps.

A DJ Mixer: iRig Mix allows DJs to use a traditional setup with two devices (one plugged into each of the independent channels) OR a single iOS device. For the single iOS device setup, the output of the single device is split into dual-mono and sent to the individual channels. Additionally – for the first time on any DJ mixer – it can be used for mixing any type of audio source (mp3 players, CD players, etc.) with an iOS device using automatic tempo matching and beat-syncing. This is accomplished with X-Sync, a feature that works in combination with the DJ Rig free app from IK Multimedia that is included with iRig Mix.

Not just for DJs: iRig MIX also provides the perfect mixing solution for solo musicians or small ensembles that use one or more iOS devices to play live. It features an extra guitar/microphone input that facilitates processing with popular apps like AmpliTube and VocaLive or any other app that offers real-time audio processing. Its standard RCA connectors provide easy, direct connection to PA systems or powered speakers.

Maximum Portability: The ultra-compact size and low profile of the iRig Mix allows it to easily be carried in a regular iPad bag. Plus its low-voltage power requirements (only 5VDC) allow it to be powered not only by any regular mobile device charger but also by suitable iOS battery pack and laptop USB port for maximum mobility to mix anywhere.

iRig MIX includes 4 free apps (downloads from the iTunes app store): DJ Rig, the new professional DJ mixing app from IK, AmpliTube, the most popular iOS guitar amp and effects app, VocaLive the processing app for singers and vocalists, and GrooveMaker, the loop-based beat and groove making app.

iRig MIX features
-2 stereo inputs with gain, bass, treble and volume controls, independent cue on each channel with LED indication and channel crossfader
-Instrument/microphone/extra input with volume control can be processed by iOS apps (such as AmpliTube, VocaLive)
-Stereo output with RCA connectors, master level and LED meters
-High quality, pristine sound
-Quality headphone output for master or cue monitoring with independent volume control
-Input switch splits Input 1 into dual-mono for use with DJ mixing apps on a single iOS device
-“X-Sync” mode allows auto-sync with any audio source using the included DJ Rig free app
-Can also be powered with battery packs and mobile chargers
-Includes 4 free apps: DJ Rig, AmpliTube, VocaLive, GrooveMaker

Pricing and availability
iRig MIX costs $99.99/€74.99 (excluding taxes) and will be available in February 2012 from electronic and music retailers around the world. Pre-orders are already available from the IK Multimedia online store and other selected resellers.

For more information:
www.irigmix.com

This looks like a cool device, and it won the iLounge “Best of Show” Award at CES this year! So if you are into music, this may be for you.

CES 2012–Quicken Loans Arena Implements iPad-Based Ordering System

Gadgets
Tech

Jim McCarthy

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Jan 13, 2012

0

Cleveland, Ohio’s Quicken Loans Arena (known as The Q to locals like me) recently implemented a new hospitality ordering system based on the iPad. Read on for details!

Quicken Loans Arena recently implemented a new touch-based ordering system in the arena. I’ve been very impressed with the level of service in the lodges in this arena in the past, so I’m not surprised that The Q is implementing a new product to improve service even more. Here is the press release that describes the product:

QUICKEN LOANS ARENA BECOMES FIRST SPORTS VENUE TO INTRODUCE “WIRELESS TOUCHSCREEN CONCIERGE” USING SMARTTOUCH TECHNOLOGY

Cleveland Cavaliers and ARAMARK Provide In-Suite Guests with iPads to Order

Food, Tickets, Merchandise and More in Real Time

CLEVELAND (January 2011) – With just a touch of a fingertip, Quicken Loans Arena (“The Q”) suite holders are entering a new dimension of service excellence. In partnership with ARAMARK, the arena’s exclusive food and beverage provider, The Q is introducing SmartTouchtechnology using Apple’s iPad™ into its 92 luxury suites to deliver guests a richer hospitality experience utilizing 100 percent wireless touch screens. Convenience has never been so cool.

Home to the NBA Cleveland Cavaliers and AHL Lake Erie Monsters, Quicken Loans Arena is the first sports and entertainment facility in the country to debut the innovative SmartTouch technology that enables suite guests to order food and drinks, purchase merchandise, event tickets and more with a tap of a screen, all from the comfort of their suite.

Developed by New York-based Incentient, a company creating and maintaining visionary hardware and software solutions to unite clients with their customers, SmartTouch is a fully customizable interactive guest experience operating on a 19-inch iPad 2 and enabling two-way communication in real time. With SmartTouch, The Q’s products and services are brought to life for customers in a compelling, interactive format using proprietary software offering the opportunity for boundless content delivery and customization.

“Our partnership with ARAMARK, to be the first to bring SmartTouch to our suite holders, reflects our focus to continue earning their support by providing the best service, fan experience, cutting-edge technology and facilities in all of sports and entertainment,” said Len Komoroski, president, Cavaliers and Quicken Loans Arena.

By integrating the latest wireless technology into the arena experience, Quicken Loans Arena and ARAMARK are creating an even more interactive, fan-friendly way for guests to enjoy sports and entertainment events. In addition to the convenience of being able to order food and beverage off the menu for delivery to the suite, SmartTouch features tabs designed specifically to enhance the service experience for Quicken Loans Arena suite holders. Those features include:

Merchandise – order team gear from the Cavaliers Team Shop

Event calendar – see what special, sporting and concert events are coming to The Q in future days, weeks and months

Purchase tickets – purchase tickets for all upcoming events at The Q

Stats and scores – view game scores and stats in real time

Concierge – obtain useful information about The Q and other area businesses and services

“Fans are accustomed to the conveniences of mobile and wireless technology and we’re continuously looking for ways to enhance and customize hospitality offerings through the use of new technology,” said Kelly Romano, ARAMARK general manager, Quicken Loans Arena. “We’re excited to work with the Cavaliers to introduce a new way for fans to experience events at The Q.”

SmartTouch’s plug-and-play technology is easy to manage and update and allows arena operators to mine for data letting them know in real time what information guests truly want and which offerings are selling best.

“The application success at The Q is another clear example of Incentient’s mission to better connect our clients to their customers” says Patrick Martucci, CEO, Incentient. “Quicken Loans Arena suite holders will now have a dynamic, real-time connection during Cavs and Monsters games and events, which in turn provides a richer fan experience. This deeper customer connection will continue to be the driving focus of all of our products.”

For more information, go to www.Incentient.com or www.theQArena.com.

ABOUT QUICKEN LOANS ARENA-CLEVELAND, OHIO

Northeast Ohio’s premier sports and entertainment destination, Quicken Loans Arena, also known as The Q, is home to the NBA’s Cleveland Cavaliers, the American Hockey League’s Lake Erie Monsters, the Arena Football League’s Cleveland Gladiators and host to the best entertainment in the region. Each year “The Q” welcomes nearly 1.5 million people at 200 plus events that include Cavaliers basketball, Monsters hockey, world-class concerts, family shows and signature sporting events. Quicken Loans Arena is operated by a group led by Cavaliers majority owner Dan Gilbert, the chairman and founder of Quicken Loans, Inc., the nation’s largest online home mortgage lender. Since 2005, Gilbert has a led the ownership group’s more than $40 million investment in renovations and upgrades at Quicken Loans Arena featuring new seats, state-of-the-art scoreboards, new lighting technology, an enhanced sound system, remodeled team locker room, in addition to a re-designed and expanded multi-million dollar Cavaliers Team Shop. These investments reflect Gilbert’s commitment to operating the Cavaliers, Monsters and Quicken Loans Arena in a fan-centric way that is second to none.

ABOUT ARAMARK

ARAMARK is a leader in professional services, providing award-winning food services, facilities management, and uniform and career apparel to health care institutions, universities and school districts, stadiums and arenas, and businesses around the world. The company is recognized as one of the “World’s Most Ethical Companies” by the Ethisphere Institute, as the industry leader in FORTUNE magazine’s “World’s Most Admired Companies,” and as one of America’s Largest Private Companies by both FORTUNE and Forbes magazines. ARAMARK seeks to responsibly address issues that matter to its clients, customers, employees and communities by focusing on employee advocacy, environmental stewardship, health and wellness, and community involvement. Headquartered in Philadelphia, ARAMARK has approximately 255,000 employees serving clients in 22 countries. Learn more at www.twitter.com/aramarknews.

ABOUT INCENTIENT

Incentient provides services for hospitality venues including restaurants, hotels and resorts and sport and entertainment arenas. By creating and maintaining unique hardware and software solutions, Incentient exclusively unites clients with their customers by adding value to the supply chain experience. In addition to SmartCellar^sm, Incentient developed the SmartTouch^sm system – a touch-screen flat panel featuring proprietary software encouraging guests to control their hospitality experience from within the security of their rooms (this includes, but is not limited to room service, valet, housekeeping, concierge and spa, among others). Incentient’s patent-pending solutions are currently being marketed around the world, with technology currently installed in 14 countries including the United States, Canada, France, Switzerland, Hong Kong and the United Arab Emirates. For more information, go to www.incentient.com.

ABOUT SMARTTOUCH^sm

Created by New York-based Incentient, SmartTouch delivers guests a richer hospitality experience utilizing the Apple iPad™. For hotels and resorts, guests now easily access hospitality services, such as concierge and room service, without having to make a phone call and be left on hold or leave their room. SmartTouch is also available for theaters and arenas by enabling guests to order tickets, food, drinks and merchandise from their seats. Incentient can customize the design the look and feel to branding. Proprietary software offers the opportunity for boundless content and customization. The plug-and-play technology is not only intuitive but also able to be multi-lingual. SmartTouch is currently marketed throughout North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. For more information, go to www.incentient.com.

Synology Announce DiskStation Manager 4.0 Beta Program

Andrew Edney

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Jan 13, 2012

4

Synology Announce DiskStation Manager 4.0 Beta Program

Synology today announced the official start of the DiskStation Manager (DSM) 4.0 beta program. During the beta program, all owners of ’08 models and newer are invited to test drive Synology’s newest NAS OS iteration, and offer feedback, including the new Cloud Station.

Cloud Station offers users a simple way to keep their data in sync, including change history, from anywhere. The QuickConnect feature allows users to sync without the complication of port forwarding.

“DSM 4.0 and Cloud Station put you in control of your own personal cloud,” said Doug Self, Product Marketing Manager at Synology America Corp. “Unlike traditional cloud services, your cloud can grow with you with no recurring fees.”

IT administrators will appreciate the additional tools DSM 4.0 brings to the table; simplifying management, and saving money and time:

iSCSI LUN backup software is included- saving thousands in licensing fees
Enhanced ADS/ACL support- edit and audit ACLs quickly and easily within DSM, regardless of OS
Flexible notification system, allowing granular control of alerts and delivery methods (email, IM, push notifications)
Improved Apple support- added support for Airport Express/Extreme and integration with
iCloud saves time in configuration
Scheduled SMART scans to keep admins in the know before problems arise

DSM 4.0 brings advances for home and small office users, too, with improvements.

Revamped GUI with powerful and intuitive tools to improve work flow for both novice and advanced users
Improved Package Management- most applications (ie. Photo Station, Surveillance Station, etc.) are now packages, added at need
Antivirus package- free antivirus scanning for the DiskStation
Enhanced mobile support- updated apps for iOS, Android (including tablets), and Amazon Kindle Fire

Synology DSM 4.0 Beta Reward Program

Synology will hand out DiskStations to three beta testers who provide the most valuable assistance and feedback during the program. For more information, please go to http://www.synology.com/support/beta_2011_dsm4.0.php

Synology DSM 4.0 beta is free to download for users who own a DiskStation x08 series and onward. Supported models include:

The download will be available at http://www.synology.com/support/beta_2011_dsm4.0.php (as of right now it says coming soon)

We will be meeting with Synology tomorrow at CES 2012, so will have more to share then.

CES 2012–Griffin and Crayola Announce Kid-Focused Products

Gadgets
Tech

Jim McCarthy

-

Jan 13, 2012

0

On Monday, Griffin and Crayola announced several new products aimed at children. Read on for details!

Griffin and Crayola have teamed up to introduce apps and accessories for children. My daughter received a Crayola coloring pen and app, called ColorStudio HD, that works on the iPad for Christmas. She really likes it, so this news release caught my eye. Here is the news release announcing the new products.

Griffin and Crayola to Unveil Expanded Lineup of Kid-Friendly Apps and Accessories at CES 2012

New Crayola-branded headphones, coloring apps and customizable iPod touch cases further extend Crayola into kids’ digital world
Las Vegas – January 9, 2012 – Griffin Technology, one of the world’s foremost creators of innovations for everyday life, and Crayola, whose products have inspired creative expression in children for more than 100 years, are excited to announce a new lineup of kid-friendly apps and mobile accessories at CES 2012.“With these new products kids can enjoy taking photos, listening to music and using their iOS devices in a totally new and colorful way,” said Mark Rowan, President of Griffin Technology. “Making technology fun and accessible for children is both exciting and rewarding; we look forward to a continued collaboration with Crayola in 2012 to bring kid-friendly creative experiences to the digital world.”“Our successful Crayola ColorStudio HD launch last year made it clear that kids want more Crayola experiences on their digital devices,” said Warren Schorr, Crayola Vice President, Licensing. “We’re excited about the new lineup we’ve brought to life with Griffin and the many ways kids can bring their originality to life by customizing Crayola accessories and creating with new apps.”

Crayola MyPhones lead the 2012 lineup, available in two styles: earbuds and headphones. Both styles have built-in volume-limiting circuitry that keeps the sound pressure down to levels recommended safe for young ears.

Crayola MyPhones Earbuds come in a range of bright colors all bearing Crayola’s iconic design. Each set of earbuds comes with its own carrying case shaped like a Crayola crayon, that opens to reveal the earbuds and 3 sizes of soft silicone ear cushions, sized just right to fit kids’ ears. Crayola MyPhones Earbuds will be available this spring in purple pizzazz, cotton candy, caribbean green and blue berry for $14.99.

Kid-friendly and durable, Crayola MyPhones Headphones are designed to fit over the ears, so nothing enters the ear canal. Each set of headphones comes with stickers and Crayola markers so children can customize their headphones and make them unique and personalized. Crayola MyPhones Headphones will be available this spring in two color combinations, pink/purple and blue/green, for $24.99.New Crayola-inspired coloring apps keep young artists entertained for hours. Crayola Lights, Camera, Color! HD turns photos taken on an iOS device into personalized digital coloring pages starring your young artist. Snap a photo or grab one you’ve already taken, and Lights, Camera, Color! HD drains the color from the picture and morphs into a coloring page. Decorate the personalized coloring page digitally with stickers, simulated strokes of Crayola crayons, colored pencils and markers.

Children can put their face to a coloring page with Crayola Silly Face Swaps HD. Each coloring page character has a cut-out where they can place a photo of their face, a friend’s face, or even a pet’s. Young artists can further personalize their coloring page by coloring it in with digital Crayola coloring tools including crayons, colored pencils and markers.

All artwork from Crayola Lights, Camera, Color! HD and Crayola Silly Face Swaps HD can be saved to a gallery, e-mailed, uploaded to Facebook, or printed out. Crayola Lights, Camera, Color! HD is now available on the iTunes App Store for $1.99. A free lite version is available, as well. Look for Crayola Silly Face Swaps in the iTunes App Store this Spring.
Crayola Case Creator is a unique combination of protective case and app to give you everything needed to create a one-of-a-kind case for iPhone or iPod touch. Let your imagination soar in the free Case Creator app by decorting a photo with digital stickers, or free-draw in Doodle mode using built-in crayons, paints and pens. Once you’re done, print your creation on the included case inserts. They’re perfectly sized to slide into the clear plastic shell to protect your artwork and iOS device. Crayola Case Creator app and case with inserts will be available for $29.99 this Spring.

The line also includes two additional ways to showcase your colorful creations and protect your iPod touch at the same time with new Crayola cases: Color Clickers and Crayon Classics. Crayola Color Clickers, $24.99, gives you 28 interchangeable color stripes that snap onto a polycarbonate shell to create new color combinations every day.

The Crayola Crayon Classics cases for iPod touch look just like the familiar, beloved Crayola crayon wrapper, and protect your iPod touch in a variety of colors: purple pizazz, cotton candy, caribbean green, and blue berry, priced at just $24.99.

For more information about Griffin Technology, visit www.GriffinTechnology.com/crayola.
About Griffin Technology
Founded on Paul Griffin’s kitchen table in 1992, Griffin Technology Inc., is today one of the world’s foremost creators of accessories for home, mobile and personal technology. Unique products such as iTrip®, PowerMate®, iFM®, iMic® and Evolve® Wireless Speaker System have broken new ground in consumer electronics and created loyal fans the world over. Today, Griffin products are conceived, designed and developed in-house, and continue to push the envelope of the industry they helped create. Learn more about Griffin’s entire range of ingenious designs at www.griffintechnology.com. Follow Griffin Technology on http://www.facebook.com/griffintech and on Twitter, @griffintech.

About Crayola
Crayola has provided children with colors to share all that inspires them since the first box of Crayola crayons were introduced in 1903. Whether it’s providing tools to put a purple octopus on the moon, or enabling teachers to bring arts-infused learning into the classroom, Crayola is passionate about helping parents and educators raise creative and inspired children. For more information, visit the Crayola website and join the Crayola community on Facebook.