Twonky Release TwonkyServer 6.0.34

This week saw Twonky release an update to its TwonkyServer software, bringing it up to version 6.0.34.

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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:

Bug Fixes
-fixed: File scanning issue on Windows network drives
-fixed: Roku soundbridge cannot stream aac/m4a
-fixed: UPnP Discovery broken w/ Linn control point
-fixed: Web Config UI not working properly with Internet Explorer 9
-fixed: improved ssdp responses to M-Searches with MX=1
-fixed: Aggregation not always indexing all items, if there are items of unknown type to TwonkyServer

Changes
o Disabled the NMC Stationary service in TwonkyServer
o Added Linn Bubble DS to clients DB
o removed useless client adaptatiion option XM:NOAAC320FORAAC192

AWIECO Servers Available Soon

Recently we told you that AWIECO were getting into the server hardware game. Today they have revealed the pricing and say that the servers will be shipping during the middle of July.

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This is what AWIECO posted today:

We have just opened our online shop where you can already find different models of our AWIECO Server which will be available soon. Due to a short delay, the AWIECO Server will be probably available for delivery in the middle of July.

They have now released the pricing for the 6 models.

Three Windows Home Server 2011 models:

AWIECO Home Servers

And three Small Business Server Essentials models:

AWIECO Business Servers

I am really excited about seeing these. AWIECO make really great add-ins, so lets hope their servers are just as great.

Here is some more information on the servers:

The new AWIECO Servers combine design, performance, low power consumption and fanless operation.

The compact and robust case made of aluminum and acrylic glass is a real eye-catcher. On the front-panel are a Power and HDD LED as well as a display, which shows status information about the CPU usage or LAN utilization for example. Big cooling rips on the side of the server provide an optimum cooling of the CPU and the entire server. Moreover, a special passive hard disk cooling system is on the top. The temperature of the hard drives is constantly monitored and if the temperature reaches the limit caused for example by high workload or high ambient temperature, then two silent security fans will become active in case of necessity to ensure a fast cooling of the system.

Inside either an Intel Atom processor of the latest generation is working or for more demanding users an Intel Core i3 or i5 Sandy Bridge processor. On the back of the server up to 5 hard drives can be added quickly and easily. Through the support of 3TB hard disks up to 15TB can be used in total of storage for the own data. The 64-Bit operating system Windows Home Server 2011 or Windows Small Business Server 2011 Essentials is preinstalled on a separate 24×7 optimized hard disk inside the case.

Specifications of AWIECO Servers:

Processor
Intel Atom or Intel Core i3 / i5 Sandy Bridge
RAM
4 to 8 GB DDR3
Storage Hard Disks
5 x 3,5” bays (up to 15TB storage capacity)
Primary Hard Disk
1 x 2,5” internal, 24/7 optimized disk for system
LAN
Gigabit LAN
LCD
2×16 lines blue colored display
Weight
4,5 to 10kg
Dimensions
20cm (h) x 24cm (w) x 24cm (d)
Warranty
1 year
Operating system
Microsoft® Windows Home Server 2011 (OEM 64-Bit)
Microsoft® Windows Small Business Server 2011 Essentials (OEM 64-Bit)
Included in delivery
Preinstalled OS,
External 10A power supply,
LAN cable,
Quick-guide,
System restore CD/DVD

 

For more information check out the AWIECO Shop website

StableBit DrivePool for Windows Home Server Build 1914 Now Available

The latest beta version of the Windows Home Server Drive Extender replacement StableBit DrivePool build 1914 has just been released.

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  • 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.

The changes in this version are:

1.0.0.1914 (restart required if upgrade) ———-

* Added DrivePool.Comm.dll cleanup code.

* [D] Updated move file code for previous fix.

* Fixed file merge move and replace (Win 7+).

* Ported back better I/O error detection from M3 regarding read / write notifications.

Download Stablebit Drivepool build 1914 here Learn more about StableBit DrivePool here

Have you tried it? What do you think?

Microsoft Office 2010 Service Pack 1 Arrives

Today Microsoft moved Office 365 out of beta, and they also released Office 2010 Service Pack 1.

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Specific information on what is in the update isn’t available at this time – the KB article with the details doesn’t seem to be available!

It is also not yet available via Windows Update – but I expect that to change pretty quickly.

Download Office 2010 SP1 32 bit edition here Download Office 2010 SP1 64 bit edition here

Tranquil WHS Add In Packs Pricing Revealed

Earlier today we revealed that Tranquil were releasing a number of WHS Add In packs. Now we can reveal the pricing, including the pricing for Monstor, Tranquil’s branded version of Drive Bender.

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Here we go:

AVA Media CD (ripper) £15.75 + VAT

AVA Media CD/DVD/BR (ripper) £21.95 + VAT

AVA Media multi Drive CD/DVD/BR (ripper) £31.45 + VAT

Add In Packs (any of the above PLUS MonStor Storage Manager)

Monstor Storage Manager £29.95 + VAT

There are savings to be had with any of the packs.

SAVE £20.00 for the AVA Media CD + MonStor

SAVE £25.00 for the AVA Media CD/DVD/BR + MonStor

SAVE £30.00 for the AVA Media multi disc CD/DVD/BR + MonStor

So that should give you an indication as well of the cost of Drive Bender!

And don’t forget to check out our hands-on review of the Tranquil Leo HS4

Sony Launch New VAIO Z Series Notebook – Sony’s MacBook Air?

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Today saw the launch of Sony’s new notebook, the extremely lightweight and slim VAIO Z series. Is this Sony’s MacBook Air? But sit down before you look at the price!

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Thin, ultra-light 13.1” notebook PC with innovative new Power Media Dock

· 33.2cm (13.1”) VAIO Z Series: less than 1.2 kg and 16.65mm slim with stunning design and smart battery concept

· Business-class power with latest standard voltage Intel® Core™ i7 processors and fast SSD storage

· High-resolution (1600×900) anti-reflective VAIO Display Premium

· Optional sheet battery gives up to 14hr stamina1 with quick charge

· Power Media Dock™ 2 with quad video monitor support, AMD Radeon™ HD graphics, optical drive and extra ports including HDMI™ out

· Quick Boot gets you working in seconds

Weighing little over a kilogram, the new VAIO Z Series notebook PC from Sony is created for mobile professionals who demand absolute performance and portability.

VAIO Z blends ultra-desirable styling and premium carbon fibre with no-compromise specifications and innovative productivity features. In the office or on the road, this class-leading business notebook helps demanding users work more efficiently with the ultimate in on-the-move computing power.

All-new VAIO Z takes cutting-edge styling by Sony to new extremes, with a ‘full flat’ body and display lid that are crafted in tough, ultra-light carbon fibre. At just below 1.2kg and 16.65mm slim, the new VAIO Z is the perfect partner for business travellers who demand ultimate power with less to carry.

Sheet battery

VAIO Z features the innovative ‘sheet battery’ already showcased on this year’s VAIO S Series. The notebook’s internal lithium polymer battery provides power for up to 7 hours1 on-the-go computing. It’s partnered by a second thin, flat optional lithium polymer sheet battery that can be charged separately from the PC and added without removing the internal battery. The sheet battery attaches without having to switch off the PC, boosting stamina to up to 14 hours for day-and-night working, even if you’re far from mains power.

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Those are some pretty big claims from Sony about the battery life! If they can live up to their claims, then they might have a winner on their hands. That is assuming you can get over the massive £2,699 price tag. Yes, that’s right, £2,699. You can get nearly 2 MacBook Air’s for that (or more if you want the lower spec one’s). To be fair, the price does start at £1,434 but that won’t get you the spec you would really drool over!

It will be interesting to see what Apple come up with as the rumours of new MacBook Air’s are already circulating.

Learn more from the Sony website, and configure your dream notebook

05060708091011

Office 365 Launched and No Longer a Beta

This morning we posted about some video resources for Microsoft’s Office 365. Well today is also the day that Office 365 is launched and is no longer a beta!

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What Is Office 365?

According to Microsoft:

It’s anywhere access to email, documents, contacts, and calendars so you’re always up-to-date. It’s familiar Microsoft productivity applications your team already uses. It’s business-class security and reliability. It’s IT control and efficiency delivered to fit your organization’s unique needs. And it’s an all in one pay-as-you-go service with an affordable price. But that’s just the beginning.

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Cost wise, Office 365 for professionals and small businesses if just £4 per month (under Plan P) and for that you get a 25 GB mailbox with 25 MB attachments with Exchange Online, and much more. For me, that is worth it just for the Exchange account! This is also on a month to month subscription basis so no more long term contracts!

I have been using Office 365 during the months of the beta and I was very happy with it.

In fact, I am in the process now of signing up properly.

Learn more about Office 365 from here

Tranquil WHS Add-in Pack

Tranquil will soon be offering a new Add In Pack for WHS2011.

The pack will contain :

  • MonStor – the Drive Extender provision service for WHS2011
  • AVA Media – the CD and CD/DVD/BR disc ripping service for WHS2011

The packs will be available to order later today, with shipping of the AVA Media software and licences immediately, and the MonStor software and licences early next week.

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To get more information, and how to save over £30.00 please drop a line to

whspacks@tranquilpc.co.uk

And don’t forget to check out our hands-on review of the Tranquil Leo HS4

My Movies for Windows Home Server and WHS 2011 Version 2 Released

Along with the My Movies 4 for Windows Media Center release today, Brian has also released version 2 to both the Windows Home Server V1 and Windows Home Server 2011 Pre  editions of My Movies.

Windows Home Server V1

The My Movies for Windows Media Center or My Movies Collection Management products can be downloaded and installed on client PC’s to maintain movies in the database on My Movies for Windows Home Sever.

My Movies for Windows Home Server 2.00

Added: TV Series monitoring

Change: Removed Firewall settings button to make room for language configuration.
Change: Supports My Movies 4. Does not support My Movies 3.

WHS v1

Both Windows Home Server V1 editions can be downloaded here

Windows Home Server 2011

My Movies for Windows Home Server 2011 operates as database back-end for My Movies clients in multi-zone environments.

The My Movies for Windows Media Center or My Movies Collection Management products can be downloaded and installed on client PC’s to maintain movies in the database on My Movies for Windows Home Sever 2011.

My Movies may not be pre-installed on commercial products, nor in any way redistributed or provided to end-users by installers that is not part of our installer program.

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You can download the Windows Home Server 2011 edition here Check out our review of My Movies for Windows Home Server 2011 2.0 Pre Release 7

Office 365 Jump Start Online Video Series

Today is the day that Office 365 from Microsoft comes out of beta. So why not learn all about it by watching a series of online videos called the Office 365 Jump Start series.

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This online video series is comprised of 15 different video segments, each dealing with an aspect of Microsoft Office 365. Below is the catalogue of these videos in the series for quick access for you to the ones you are most interested in.

Learn more about Office 365 from here

Take the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 out for a Spin

Are you thinking of buying the Samsung Galaxy Tab? Would you like to take it out for a spin first? Well Samsung have a Galaxy Tab 10.1 online simulator you can play with.

Galaxy Tab

Sometimes we just want to see how a device works. When you go into a store it is often impossible to get anywhere near a device because of the kids playing Angry Birds on them!

Well, Samsung have developed an online simulator to show you just how the Galaxy Tab works.

Obviously it is not the same as having the real thing in your hands, but it’s certainly better than nothing.

Why not take it out for a spin today?

Test out the Samsung Galaxy Tab for yourself here

Do you have a Galaxy Tab? If so, what do you think of it?

LaCie and Porsche Design Introduce New Generation of Hard Drives

Today LaCie an Porsche Design announced two new hard drives joining their exclusive P9000 luxury range – the P9220 and the P9230.

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The P9230, which is the desktop model will come in a 1TB model for $119.99 and 2TB model for $159.99. The P9220, which is the mobile model in a 500GB for $104.99.

There are more images and links after the press release.

Here is the press release:

June 27, 2011

Porsche Design Group (Porsche Lizenz- und Handelsgesellschaft mbH & Co. KG) and LaCie announce the latest technology to join the luxury brand’s exclusive P´9000 electronics category: the LaCie Porsche Design Mobile (P’9220) and Desktop (P’9230) Hard Drives. The new storage accessories represent cutting-edge USB 3.0 technology, sleek aluminium frame, and purist design.

Since 2003, LaCie and Porsche Design have worked closely to deliver products that are technically inspired, delivering flawless functionality in its purest form. The luxury brand and the leading technology company complement the other, with technical influence from LaCie, together with an exclusive and timeless shape presented by Porsche Design.

“For 20 years LaCie has introduced products that influence and fit right into our digital lives,” says Dr. Juergen Gessler, CEO of the Porsche Design Group. “Since 1972 the Porsche Design luxury brand embodies that philosophy in everything that we have created, bringing a sense of quality and luxury to every single Porsche Design product. We are pleased to introduce a product that resembles superior form and functionality.”

Today the luxury brand and the leading technology company announce the evolution of LaCie’s portfolio designed by Porsche Design, by introducing a new generation of storage solutions. Delivering more than just industry-leading performance, the new design is a combination of premium material and workmanship that completely reflect the Porsche Design signature.

ALUMINIUM FRAME

For Porsche Design, the authenticity and quality of materials further exemplify the components inside. The aluminium frame of the LaCie Porsche Design Mobile and Desktop Hard Drives is elegant by appearance, but supports the vast functionality of the hard drive inside. The LaCie Porsche Design Mobile and Desktop Hard Drives are built with durable and scratch-resistant aluminium, protecting the hard drive mechanics. Each frame is built with precision. The aluminium also regulates heat for guaranteed performance. And for the environment, the aluminium frame is 100 percent recyclable.

BUILT FOR SPEED

Clocking speeds three times faster than USB 2.0*, The LaCie Porsche Design Mobile and Desktop Hard Drives are the fastest USB 3.0 hard drives on the market. Technology enthusiasts will appreciate transferring their digital assets in seconds with no delay to their digital lifestyle, delivering peak performance and pure design.

MORE THAN JUST STORAGE

More than just a beautiful exterior, LaCie Porsche Design Hard Drives come with software to easily install your drive on PC and Mac. Each drive includes backup software, to ensure you have a complete backup of all your digital assets, eco mode for power savings, password protection to keep files secure and 10GB of Wuala secure online storage.

The LaCie Porsche Design Mobile Hard Drive (P’9220) comes in 500GB and 1TB capacities. Additionally, a 750GB model will be available exclusively in the worldwide Porsche Design Stores. The LaCie Porsche Design Desktop Hard Drive (P’9230) comes in 1TB and 2TB capacities. The products will be available through the LaCie Online Store and select retailers including Amazon, B&H, Best-Buy.com, and Micro-Center, starting at $104.99. For more product information, visit http://www.lacie.com.

ABOUT PORSCHE DESIGN

Porsche Design is a luxury brand with a particular focus on technically inspired products. The Porsche Design brand was established in 1972 by Professor Ferdinand Alexander Porsche. The products stand for functional, timeless and purist design, characterised by their technical innovation. The product portfolio includes watches, sunglasses, luggage, a fashion collection for men and women as well as sports apparel, electronic products and a men’s fragrance line. All the products under the brand are designed at the Porsche Design Studio in Zell am See (Austria) and are available worldwide in the company’s own stores, franchise stores, shops-in-shops, high-end department stores and exclusive specialist retailers. For additional information, visit www.porsche-design.com.

 

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Learn more about the P9230 desktop drive Learn more about the P9220 mobile drive