"TouchPad" Application for iPAD & iPHONE: Use your device as a wireless trackpad for your desktop or laptop computer. The most useful app I've purchased so far!

Like many Americans, I spend a decent amount of time in front of my computer browsing the web, typing emails, and executing a variety of tasks for work.  After spending a great deal of time on my laptop & desktop, I've found that using my laptop's "trackpad" (that flat square area at the bottom of most keyboards) to navigate versus using a standard mouse.

"TouchPad" by Edovia, Inc is a multi-function application for the iPad & iPhone (meaning, it's compatible with both - so if your an owner of multiple devices, it should work on all of them) that transforms them into a trackpad, keyboard, and remote control for Apple Mac, Windows based, and Linux based computers.

Here's a few screen shots from my iPAD:

Track Pad

Keyboard

Command Pad

Remote Control For Media

In terms of using it with different operating systems:

• osX - No additional software required, operates through screen-sharing.
• Windows - Requires VNC server applications so it can talk over the wifi network.
• Linux - Works with most major distributions with remote desktop enabled.

AS FAR AS USABILITY, IT'S AWESOME!  My major concern about paying $4.99 for the application without a demo was that there would be a delay (lag time) while using it as a mouse curser because it functions through the wifi network.   Well, there is ZERO lag time - it feels perfectly integrated.

A rundown of the features:

• Primarily, functions as a trackpad (to replace your mouse)
• Includes a virtual keyboard which you can turn off & on.
• Includes a remote control for multi-media functions (such as controlling iTunes, or Front Row)
• In addition to the keyboard, it also includes a command pad with the following commands:
• Minimize
• Close
• Quit
• Copy
• Paste
• Cut
• Undo
• Redo
• Find
• Home
• End
• Select All
• Page Up
• Page Down
• Return

One useful feature is that, the track pad consumes the whole iPad screen with a menu bar along the top.  To access the keyboard, control pad, or remote pad, there are "off/on" buttons on the menu.  The selected options appear at the bottom of the screen, while the top of the screen still serves as a trackpad.

I love this application for sitting back in my computer chair, with my feet on my desk, and holding my iPad in my lap.

For $4.99 it definitely increased the functionality of my iPad & iPhone and is definitely one of my most favored applications.

RemotePC Lite: FREE iPAD Application, access your desktop from your iPAD over your local network/WiFi

Screen Shot From my iPad

Just a few moments ago, I wrote about an application called "RemotePc Remote Access", this is about a sister application called "RemotePc Lite".

The main difference between these two applications is that the "Remote Access" version allows you to access your desktop from a distance, whereas the "Lite" version only allows you to access your desktop over your local network/wifi (so, that means, within your own home or office).  The "Lite" version is also free.

What I really like about this application, is that there are many moments that I am sitting at my kitchen table drinking coffee, sitting outside with a friend, or lounging in front of the tv - and I'd like to use my desktop, but I really don't feel like getting up and walking into my office.

"RemotePC Lite" is a FREE service & application for the iPAD that allows you to view & control your desktop-computer (or notebook) while on your iPAD, on your home network.  It works with both Mac & PC platforms.  I would like to see it work from a distance (away from home), however, it's free - I love it, and I'll take what I can get.

This is how it works:

1. Download the application for your iPad and install.
2. Download the application for your MAC OSX or Windows machine, and install.
3. Create an account (very simple).
4. Make sure that RemotePC is activated on your home or desktop computer.
5. Load the application on your iPAD and use your computer as if you were sitting at your desk!

Not only is this program simple and effective, the company also has great customer support.  I was able to contact them immediately through their web-based chat client.

In addition to accessing your desktop, you can also use an iPad-oriented browser to choose videos, pictures, and music on your PC and play them on your iPAD.

If you're simply looking to access your files without using a remote desktop, and you'd like a service that will allow you to do so away from home, you may want to check out my blog about ZUMOCAST.

iPad App Allows you To Remotely Access Your Pc: "RemotePC Remote Access" Released September 28, 2010

iPad App Allows you To Remotely Access Your Pc:  "RemotePC Remote Access" Released September 28, 2010

Free application, service by subscription (yearly or monthly)

Manufacture's website:  http://www.remotepc.com

The same company also makes a program for the iPAD called "Remote Access Lite" which is compatible with both Windows & MAC machines which is FREE.  I'll be writing about that next, however, do remember that this a very ADVANCED service which offers suits professional needs and multiple computers.

When I first started using my iPad, I was a little nervous about useable applications because they mostly appeared to cost more than applications for the iPhone.  I don't mind spending $1 or $2, however, when it's between $5 & $20, I have a hard time committing to a purchase of an application which may be a complete dud.  For that reason alone, I usually try to stick with free applications and, if there is a "paid version" which offers more features, I will usually upgrade if I find it useable.

Today, I'd like to make a mention about "RemotePC Remote Access for the iPAD.  This application allows you to use your iPAD to access your Windows-PC through the internet so you can access files (or whatever you may need) from a distance.  Additionally, it allows you to access multiple computers, which could be critical if you work from a variety of offices, or need administrative access from reasons pertaining to your style of business.

In order to access files on your PC, you simply install the "sister application" on your computer at home.  Both your iPAD and your computer somehow connect to RemotePC's servers so they can locate each other, and it becomes very easy to locate information on your computer at home if the need should present itself.

Remote PC actually allows you to view your computer's screen on your iPad, the connection is 128-bit encrypted, does not require a static-IP address, allows you to transfer information between two distant computers (home vs office, for example), print remotely, and add multiple computers to your account.

This is a great application for people that work from many computers, and utilize an iPAD as a mobile device.  It's an excellent method of bringing computers together without having to invest in fancy networks.  

It should be mentioned that this is a very advanced service!

Droid 2: Barnacle Wifi Tether for Rooted Android Cellular Phones

There is a huge difference between the applications available for the iPhone in Apple's App Store, versus Android's Market.  The Android "MARKET" appears to be a universal destination for downloading most available applications for the droid, whereas applications available through Apple's "App Store" appear to be filtered through criteria as defined by Apple.  By "jailbreaking" your iPhone, you are able to access a variety of applications that may not have met the standards which are set forth in Apple's "App Store".

Most applications available for the Android platform appear to be available through Google's "Market", however, you'll find many references for applications requiring "root access".  Rooting your Android is very similar to jail-breaking your iPhone, as it allows certain permissions which were initially banned (banned for a variety of reasons).

A word of caution!  Jail-breaking or rooting your phone may present some serious consequences, and you could find your mobile device malfunctioning in ways never expected.

Regardless, there are programs available in Google's "Market" which are only functional on "rooted" phones.  BARNACLE is an application that tethers your internet via wifi.  In plain English, this means, that you can connect to your phone (while using Barnacle) as you would if you were connecting to a wireless router.

Long story short, Barnacle is a free application and it works.  You simply load the program, adjust your settings (such as a password to access the wifi network which Barnacle will host from your phone), and access from other electronic devices!  It works like a charm!

There's a similar application called PDAnet, however, it tether's through bluetooth & USB versus Wifi.  For many individuals, PDAnet will work just fine.  The exception is the iPAD, since, the iPAD is not designed to receive internet connections via a USB connection or bluetooth.  PDAnet is a great option if you wish not to root your phone, and if you are tethering to a desktop, laptop, or another device which can receive a data connection via USB or bluetooth.

In theory, if you have a rooted Android phone with Barnacle, it could be of extreme value (for example) if your internet service at home failed and you had one (or many) computers that are compatible with wireless internet.

With that being said, Barnacle (or the process of rooting your phone) may not be compliant with the service contracts and/or warranties as set forth by your phone's manufacturer or your cellular provider's service plans.

In my opinion, I think Barnacle is an awesome program.

Rooting your Droid 2 on MAC or PC, EASY!

Many thanks to darkonion @ xdadevelopers for his instructions at:

http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=782556

I've been waiting for an easy method to root my Verizon Wireless Motorola Droid 2.  This enables many applications, such as, "Barnacle" which enables you to wifi tether your device!

Excellent post.  Just read and follow directions.

"USE YOUR HANDWRITING" by Gee Whiz Stuff: Application for the iPhone & iPad is AWESOME for taking notes!

Today, a friend turned me on to an awesome application for the iPad & iPhone called "Use Your Handwriting" (UYW for short).

While I'm used to typing on an actual keyboard, or typewriter - I always found typing on a "touch screen" to be discouraging.  This discouragement stems from my quick typing ability (on physical keyboards), and I feel that it takes too much effort and time to write on a touch-screen.  There have been many times when I wanted to jot down a quick note on my phone, and found myself preferring the use of a napkin and a pen.  I'm always trying to remember telephone numbers, directions, movies that have been suggested to me, as well as performing artists people recommend I witness.

"USE YOUR HANDWRITING" is an application that interfaces with the touch screen of the iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch.  You simply hand-write with your finger-tip:

After you hit the "done" button, what you have hand-written is transferred to the first line of a "virtual notepad".  

After it's transferred to the first line, you can continue to write your entries.  Every time you hit the "done" button, it transfers your "writings" to the next line on the "virtual notepad".

I think this is a simple yet brilliant concept for an application that helps integrate technology into our lives, in a fashion which is extremely efficient and useable.

There is a free edition, as well as a paid edition.  The free edition is fully functional, and the paid edition which is called "Use Your Handwriting Gold".

After I use the free edition, I'll be purchasing the gold edition - and will be writing another review about the additional features that are offered by the upgrade.

Awesome product!  *****

"Index Card" for iPad: The best productivity tool for tracking multiple projects.

Screen Shot

I originally purchased the iPad for the purpose of utilizing it as a portfolio for my photography (www.photostudiosonline.com) and graphic design.  If I were contending with paper portfolios, I would need a separate book for each project.  I later realized that my iPad could almost become my electronic briefcase (which, a camera would be nice to capture documents).  I've had the iPad for approximately a month, and I have been searching for ways to integrate the device into my life.  When I purchase a new "smart device" I am always hesitant to spend money on applications that I may never use.  With my iPhone, I'm not concerned about spending money on applications because they typically only cost $1 or $2 and the device is always in my pocket (as are the applications!).

To date, my favorite iPad application is "Index Card" by DenVog.  Imagine keeping multiple index card boxes for different topics, projects, and subjects.  While index cards are awesome, having multiple boxes would be preferred for organizing & separating your content, however, it would become cumbersome as it would require a plethora of storage space in your living and/or work area.  To make matters worse, multiple index-card boxes aren't exactly portable!

"Index Card" by DenVog provides the organizational freedom of multiple index card files, while maintaining the portability of an iPad.

Here's a brief description of it's useable features:

1. Multiple batches of index card files are listed as "projects", so you only see the "project" that you have selected.
2. Different colors can be used for individual index card entries, which I find useful for prioritizing, and critical for "flagging" entries as I would within email.
3. The iPad's screen displays all of your index cards for the "project" that you have open on your choice of:

• A cork-board or solid black background
• List-style view, which is useful for multiple entries.

Additionally, for those who have "DropBox" accounts, Index Card Version 1.2 (release Sept. 24, 2010) also allows you to export your projects to your DropBox folder.

Truly an awesome application!

Samsung Syncmaster B2230 Tilt Adjustment

I've always had a liking for Samsung products, especially televisions.  I like the way their screens look, I never have issues with their functionality nor design, and their price is always priced modestly compared to comparable products.

Yesterday, a Samsung Suncmaster B2230 was purchased for $149 to replace a generic monitor that went up in smoke.

After assembling the monitor, we realized that the viewing angle was very uncomfortable.  After inspecting the monitor assembly, it didn't appear to have a tilt adjustment, despite the specification's indications.

Apparently, this is confusing many people, as it is mentioned in product reviews.

Here's the reality:  The monitor does tilt, it's just built very stiff and sturdy.  Hold onto the base of the monitor (the part that stands on your desk), and tilt the monitor to your preferred position!  If you use your other hand to hold the top of the monitor, it won't feel as stiff since you'll have better leverage.

This probably confused people because, while assembling the monitor, it looks as though it's built not to tilt.  Wrong! It is.

Awesome monitor, great price.

ZumoCast for iPad & iPhone: A FREE service to play your media library & access files which are stored on your computer while away from home.

From time to time, I'll stumble upon applications that I wish I had known about as soon as they hit the market.  ZumoCast, is one of these!

ZumoCast is a FREE application/service that allows you to access documents from your computer while using your iPhone or iPad from a distance, just so long as you have an internet connection.

This is largely for accessing your music & video library, however, it will also allow you to view documents of other types (pdf files, etc..).

This is not only convenient, however, it also saves space on your mobile device.  

Setup is extremely easy.  First, you download the application to your iPhone or iPad.  Then, you create an account by entering your email address and your desired password.  Finally, you download the software onto your desktop (or laptop) computer as well. 

Once those steps are completed and you are "signed in" to both programs, you open the application and select the file you wish to view (or listen to).  

That simple!

The application is FREE.

Iphone Operating System OS 4.1 Released, Check for updates!

It's out .. Iphone OS 4.1!  For all of you MAC users at home, there's also an updated iTUNES with a new logo, and a few other minor changes.

If you sync your iPhone and haven't updated yet, you may have to select "Check for Updates" - otherwise iTunes may not realize there is an update until 9/15/10 (or said iTunes, on my computer).

Sorry, iPad, no magical OS4 released for you yet!

Stealth Guards: Full Body Armor for your Mobile Devices

Today, I am writing a product review about Stealth Guards.  Stealth Guards is a company that offers full-body protection for your mobile devices.  The advantage with their products over many other competitors is that they cover the front, back, sides, and trim of your device - keeping it almost 100% scratch free!  The application is very simple, as it entails wetting your hands and the adhesive side of the clear protector with a solution, and pressing out the air bubbles and any leftover solution.  If you've applied transparent screen protectors in the past, the application method should be second nature.

I discovered this product by accident.  They were offering free protectors to the first 1,000 customers.  They extended the offer to 2,000 customers - and last time I checked, it now says "limited time offer".  I placed the order on 8/19/2010 for my iPhone as well as my Droid.  I received the order today - 8/30/2010.  I felt very secure placing an order with them because they followed up with emails telling me my order was shipped.  Thank you "Stealth Guards"!

My only concern is that the products arrived in a plain envelope.  For shipping costs totally $5.70 ($2.85 per device), it would have been nice to have them shipped between a couple index cards to help prevent the possibility of them being ruined in the shipping process.  They did, however, arrive in perfect condition.

I highly suggest checking this product out immediately, as limited time offers don't last forever!  I was amazed at how many devices they offered these shields/guards for!!

http://www.stealthguards.com

Why use Google Voice: computers and telephones are happy together.

Today, I decided to write about advantages and concerns regarding Google Voice and why Google Voice can be a valuable tool for managing your telephone calls.

Google Voice is an internet based Google application.  It assigns you a telephone number from a calling area of your choice, and provides services such as voicemail, voicemail transcription, and text messaging (SMS).  It also offers advanced management of how your calls are handled.   It should be of interest to anybody that has multiple telephone lines, those who have a need for easy text messaging while at a desktop computer, and for those who would like to have their voicemails transcribed to text so they can be read within a text message or email.  If you choose to hand out this telephone number freely, you can configure the application (service) to route the telephone call to all of your telephone numbers, so you can simply reach for the telephone number closest to you.

A word on the assigned telephone number... the one advantage is that you can choose your calling area.  This may be to provide a long-distance family member or friend a way to call you without incurring long distance charges.  While most of the civilized world are using computers and cell phones, some people still choose to use "land lines" powered by telephones on hanging on the kitchen wall.

The advantages to Google's assigned telephone number relate to it's ability to:

1. Route received calls to previously existing telephone lines.
2. Execute specific actions for specific callers.  For example, you can choose to blacklist someone from being able to place a telephone call, or you can send them directly to email if you choose.
3. Make free national calls, and really cheap international calls - assuming that you can get around using cellular minutes - as described below.

Google's provided voicemail can also:

1. Be set up to replace existing cellular voicemail.
2. Transcribe your voicemail to email and/or text message.
3. Be listened directly from your computer, or smartphone.

While a telephone number is assigned largely for incoming calls, outgoing calls can be placed by:

1. Accessing http://voice.google.com from any HTML.5 compatible smartphone.  This is the workaround for using Google Voice with the iPhone.
2. Any smartphone that offers a "Google Voice" application - such as the Android based phones.
3. From your desktop using a service called "Gizmo5" - which allows you to connect calls using your Google Voice account.  Gizmo5 is a company that, from what I've been told, was recently purchased by Google.

So far, there area few concerns about Google Voice which should be considered before using the service.  None of these concerns are deal breakers, however, it's best to understand them before utilizing this awesome service.

1. Google uses the internet to decide how to route the telephone calls, however, instructs your device to dial an outgoing telephone number which is Google proprietary.  So, this means, that you're calling Google, and then Google is connecting to the person you choose to call.  Since the telephone call is not placed over the internet (VOIP), it will effect your cellular minutes and how they are billed.  If you do not have unlimited calling, the resolution is to add Google's telephone number to your cellular account if it offers free calling to specific telephone numbers.  If you can Google's outgoing telephone number for free, then this comes in handy for telephone calls where you know you may be holding for extremely long periods of time.
2. If your Google account is broken into or hacked, your call history and voicemails may be accessed and saved by the hijacker.  The resolution is to employ safe password habits, such as using at least 12 characters, a mixture of numbers and letters, and not using the same password for multiple sites.
3. Voice transcription is not perfect.  If the servers can not fully understand what your caller is  saying, it will make it's best guess.  The result is a message that looks as if it were written with funky automatic spell correction.  Most of the time, however, it is accurate enough to understand why someone called you.  The resolution is to listen to the actual voicemail.

So, this is Google Voice in a nutshell.  I like Google Voice because:

1. I have multiple telephone numbers, and it enables me to use one voicemail system for both cell phones.
2. I really like the voicemail transcription.  I configure it to send the voicemail through email, as well as a text message to both cell phones.
3. It provides a telephone number that I can give to creeps, businesses, and people that I'd rather not talk to.  In turn, I can route their telephone calls directly to email.

This is an excellent service worth checking out!  It's free, unless you intend to make international calls!

No iPhone 4.0.x Jailbreaks!

http://tmo.to/eeGm

Above is a link to an interesting article by Bryan Chaffin on themacobserver.com.  In summary, we will probably not be seeing iPhone 4.0.x and Ipad 3.2.2 jailbreaks.  We'll have to wait and see what arrives for the next release--which is currently in Beta.

Droid 2: Voice to Text (Transcription)

I'd like to write real briefly about a very useable feature on the Droid 2.  Google has a feature which is now a universal input method which allows the user to speak into the phone (rather than type).  Universal, meaning, it works in all applications.

I feel this offers some excellent advantages.  If you're unable to spend time typing, you simply hit the "microphone" button and speak into the phone.  It converts your speech to text in the same fashion as it does for voice search.

Some of the uses for this would be emails, text messages, memo pad entries.

I know a few people who would rather spend the time typing, as they prefer not to speak into their phone. 

As for myself, I think it is a wonderful feature and have started using it for quick replies sent through text messages and emails.

I do, wonder, however - the legality of talking to you phone while driving =)

ANDROID 2.2 IS RELEASED

Apparently, there hasn't been much talk about Android 2.2 being released.  Just now, users are starting to realize that their phones have been updated to 2.2.  Well, what can we expect with the update?  Everything is posted right here.....

http://developer.android.com/sdk/android-2.2.html

Droid 2 and Task Killers

There is a large debate in the Droid community regarding the use of Task Killers.  It's seriously the latest form of abuse!  The debate goes something like this.  All of the techies who wanted control over their phones purchased Droids.  The android phones can load programs which personalize your experience, and they provide fair and accurate warning regarding which system processes they will want to dominate while it's on your phone.  For whatever, some of these programs are often found in your process list -- even while you're not using them.  Sometimes it's something as simple as a news application which constantly updating in the background.  Sometimes, when you leave an application, it's like the toaster - you aren't sure if you left it on after you left the house.  Some of the techies claim that the applications are running for a reason, and that by terminating your processes, your phone will stop behaving in the way it's supposed to.

Frankly, I don't think the average program is causing problems or power loss by running in the background.  I'm sure there are a few glitched programs that may do so accidentally.  Naturally, I think it's always good to monitor your processes from time to time so you can identify any strangeness happening inside of your phone.

 

I think I read in the Droid 2's tips widget that our pet phones like to be reset once a day, since they are ultimately mini-computers.  If they're cranky, they may need to be rest a few more times than once.  It's like washing in the morning.  This is something we all do, right?

Sure, there may be phones *cough* that don't have to be reset everyday.  However, one reason why many people choose the Android platform is the "freedom" to use your phones how you want, and with whatever software you'd like. 

This is a trade off ..... versus the competition's platform which is under lock-down with little room for personalization or experimentation.

Conversations will most likely revolve around this topic for the lifespan of the phone, unless the Android platform is subject to radical change . 

I do, however, notice that I rarely have to kill a process to save power, if I utilize the Power Management widget and disable all the services which do not apply to what I'm doing.

 

Problem solved.

In Search of the Perfect Memo Pad For the Droid 2: Wizard Memo by Wizard Works

Today, I have been searching for a Droid application that will accommodate my needs for a memo pad/text editor.  Sometimes I like to write on my phone because it allows me to capture my thoughts without being tied down to a single location.  My handwriting has always been sloppy, so keeping a physical notepad has always been challenging for me.


The iPhone is shipped with Apple's "Notes" application.  When the application loads, you are presented an interface resembles that of a ruled yellow writing tablet.  I've used it extensively for memos and notes; both long and short.


Today, I choose the Droid 2 as my "carry along" notepad.   I'm relatively new to the Droid 2, so I had to search for a "memo pad" application.  I really did assume that it shipped with one, aside from Quick Office, and the dandy sticky note widget.  It didn't!


How shocking?, I thought, for a full featured modern phone to not have a usable application for memos!


So far, my favorite free Android application for note taking is called Wizard Memo, by Wizard Works.  WM allows you to create multiple entries and automatically stores them within it's file system.  It stores all of your memos in one centralized area.  The other applications I tried either didn't auto save, one of them didn't automatically wrap the text within the screen's margins, and most of them made managing your notes a science which requires the understanding of directory structure (which many users do not).  Wizard Memo automatically takes care if all these concerns, and organizes your memos in a style that requires zero effort or planning, and in a way that is very "in your face."


This is definitely an application worth checking out on the Android Market if you're in need of a memo pad, simple text editor, or a program just to take quick notes.  *****

Introduction to SoupToNuts

I am a technology geek.  I love gadgets as well as the opportunity to use the latest devices in the most fashionable manner.  Since my wallet only affords this luxury from time to time, I fortunately have lots of gadget happy friends who allow me to explore their new toys as if they were my own.  Playing with new technology always glazes my eyes; just like my dog, as he stares down sausage and bacon.

My latest fascination includes two phones:  The Motorola Droid 2 and the iPhone 3Gs.  Yes, I do realize that there are many generic debates regarding these phones.  People get freakishly odd and often engage in frantic conversation in a similar manner to those of us whom stir heated debates about sex, politics,  and religion. There's a strange sense of pride, with overtones of superiority complexities while maintaining a snobbishness that I usually associate with cigar lovers, wine aficionados, and the loonies who insist that Philadelphia offers the most genuine Seattle coffee drinking experience.

The above personality profile is the antithesis of my take on the two phones.  I think they both offer really super cool mobile computing experiences.  

The iPhone

I have a strong appreciation for the Mac's user experience.  There is something that feels as though their products were designed for me.  Simple, effective, reliable.  As a Mac user, the phone made sense to me immediately.  There was no adjustment period for learning how to use the iPhone.  I think that something special pulls together in products made by companies that control both the hardware and software aspects of the device.

The Droid 2

I really like the Android platform.  I like the software modifications that Motorola offers with their Droid 2.  Most specifically, I like their social networking applications.  I'm a huge fan of Twitter, as well as Facebook.  I am constantly sending emails.  I am constantly sending text messages.   I love Motorola's widgets that let you take advantage of all these services within one application.  It maintains a log of your accounts, and interfaces with all of the services so you don't have to load multiple programs or web pages.

In the following days, you will find rants and rambles regarding each device.  The topics you will revolve around product and software reviews, comparisons, tips and tricks, and frequently asked questions.

If you've made it this far, thanks for reading - and stay tuned!