SanDisk debuts 2GB Memory Stick

SanDisk has introduced a 2GB SanDisk Memory Stick PRO, the highest capacity available in this card format as well as its first brandedMemory Stick PRO Duo cards: "The new SanDisk MS PRO and MS PRO Duo cards are now distinguished by their outer blue plastic shells that represent the standard look across all of SanDisk’s mainstream memory cards. MS PRO Duo cards are roughly half the size of MS PRO and are intended for use in smaller sized digital devices. An adapter is included with every MS PRO Duo and can be used in MS PRO compatible devices.

Sony to launch online music service

Sony has said that it will launch a new online music service with about 500,000 songs this spring. The new service, dubbed "Connect," will only work with Sony's own portable music players initially, but the company says that software will be released later this year that will allow owners of other devices to use the service., Sony unveiled a new high-capacity version of its Mini-Disc and players (Hi-MD) that will allow users to store up to 45 hours of music on a 1GB disc. Here we go again!

Apple offers iTunes Playlist to DVD AppleScript

Apple has posted a "Playlist to DVD" AppleScript to its Web site for iDVD 4. "The Playlist to DVD application creates a QuickTime movie containing the audio tracks and album art from a chosen iTunes playlist. The newly created movie, and an album art slideshow, are automatically added to the currently open iDVD project. And since the added 640x480 movie is created with chapter markers, it's easy to sequentially navigate its tracks using standard DVD controls," notes Apple. Fun!

Radeon 9800 Pro Special Edition introduced

ATI Technologies has introduced theRadeon 9800 Pro Mac Special Edition, designed exclusively for use with the high-end Power Mac G5. The new graphics card offers 256 MB of ultra fast DDR memory, with 680 MHZ data rate and a core engine speed of 380 MHZ. In addition, the card is supported by drivers included within Mac OS X and enables a direct connection with Apple-branded displays through dual output ADC and DVI connectors. The Wow Factor is Back!

Art Directors Toolkit 4 released

Code Line has released Art Director's Toolkit 4, a major update to its software that combines several utilities tailored for graphic designers and creative professionals. Version 4 has been completely rebuilt from the ground up for Mac OS X. The new version offers many new features and enhancements. We recommand it.

HP and Apple partner on iPod-based device

HP and Apple today announced a strategic alliance to deliver an HP-branded digital music player based on Apple's iPod, and iTunes to HP's customers. As part of the alliance, HP PCs and notebooks will come preinstalled with iTunes and "an easy-reference desktop icon" to point consumers directly to the iTunes Music Store. HP's digital music player is expected to become available this summer and be priced "competitively to other digital music players currently available." Beginning this summer, iTunes will be preloaded on HP Pavilion, Media Center and Compaq Presario desktop and notebook consumer PCs.

PowerLogix offers ClearCube G4 Cube enclosure

PowerLogix has announced theClearCube, a new acrylic enclosure for the Power Mac G4 Cube. The ClearCube sports a G5-style perforated top grille made of anodized aluminum, and offers "superior" cooling over the original Cube case, allowing the system to be safely upgraded with a faster processor and a high-performance video card. The ClearCube will begin shipping on Monday, January 12. Retail Price, which includes the acrylic enclosure, aluminum anodized grille, the DC/DC card relocation bracket and cable, and all mounting hardware.

Macworld SF: Great Books Crop; Must Have New Titles

'Running Mac OS X Panther'
O'Reilly has announced the release of "Running Mac OS X Panther" by James Duncan Davidson. "This book will help you master the latest version of Mac OS X. You'll learn how to get the most out of the pretty GUI as well as how to dive into the Unix layer of the system to take fine-grained control when you need to," Davidson explains. "It's the perfect guide for users who want to customize, tweak, and otherwise generally rev up Mac OS X Panther."

'Mac OS X Killer Tips'
2nd instalement of Mac OS Killer Tips by Scott Kelby. More Usefull Panther Tips that you can shake a stick at. Tips, Tips ,Tips Nothing but Killer Tips! More than 385 Killer Tips spread on 312 Pages Price at 45.99$ (CDN) = 0.08Cents @ Now that is the best deal ever! New Riders / Peachpit press isbn 0-7357-1393-6

'Mac OS X Panther Edition the Missing Manual'
Master the 150+ New Feature in Panther, and have fun doing it. Learn Unix Basic in a warm and witty writting that is David Pogue Trademark! Hard to put down.
Pogue Press / O'Reilly isbn 0-596-00615-2

Macworld SF: TEN demos naviPlay Bluetooth stereo adapter for iPods

TEN Technology is demoing naviPlay, a Bluetooth wireless stereo adapter for 3G iPods. It includes a Bluetooth adapter that attaches to the iPod's dock connector, and a BT headphone adapter that allows use of any stereo headphones or speakers with a standard 3.5mm stereo plug. The headphone adapter also has an LCD display and buttons for basic remote audio functions as well as playlist and menu navigation. Each adapter is powered by rechargeable lithium ion battery that provides approximately 8 hours of airtime. It will ship in the first quarter.

Macworld SF: MYOB AccountEdge 2004 Network Edition announced

MYOB US today announced MYOB AccountEdge 2004 Network Edition, which uses Rendezvous technology to allow multiple users to simultaneously work over a network. It also includes payroll, time billing, contact management, and an integrated suite of online business services (e.g., credit card processing, direct deposit). MYOB AccountEdge 2004 Network Edition comesin a 5-user license and will be released in the Spring.. The company also recently released a January 20004 Payroll and Productupdates.

Macworld SF: Harman Update Famous SoundSticks

Harman Multimedia today announcedHarman Kardon SoundSticks II, a new version of the high-powered three-piece speaker system introduced in 2000. SoundSticks II is now outfitted and improved with updated audio technology, touch volume control and analog connectivity. The system includes two 10-watt satellite speakers as well as a 20-watt subwoofer, which produces bass response down to 44Hz. It is available online.

Housed in a tubular, transparent enclosure, the satellite towers contain four Odyssey transducers that deliver high frequencies beyond 20kHz. Harman says the SoundSticks II "employs a new computer-optimized multiband parametric equalization, which means listeners will experience clearer, cleaner sound and a more accurate reproduction of the artist's intent. Additionally, Harman's unique 'capacitance touch' control buttons on the right satellite allow for direct access to volume control."

It is compatible with all analog stereos and desktop and laptop computers, as well as with game consoles, and digital music and personal CD players.

Macworld SF: Overview of Apple Keynote Annoucements; Xserve G5, Final Cut Express 2, iLife '04, iPod mini, and Bilboard Charts in iTunes

Xserve G5

Apple today introduced the Xserve G5, a new version of its powerful 1U rack-mount server with a PowerPC G5 64-bit processor. Apple said the new Xserve G5 delivers over 30 gigaflops of processing power per system, about 60 percent more than the PowerPC G4-based Xserve. The Xserve G5, available with either single or dual 2.0GHz G5 processors, includes a new system controller with up to 8GB of PC3200 error correcting code (ECC) memory; three hot-plug Serial ATA drive modules that deliver up to 750GB of storage; optional internal hardware RAID; dual PCI-X slots, supporting 133 MHz PCI-X cards with over 1 GBps of throughput; and dual on-board Gigabit Ethernet for high-performance networking. Xserve G5 ships with an unlimited client edition of Mac OS X Server 10.3 Panther pre-installed.


Final Cut Express 2

Final Cut Express 2, is the next major release of its digital video editing software. The new version is based Final Cut Pro 4 and "delivers powerful new features in an affordable, easy-to-use package for video editors who want a mid-level application that delivers professional results." The new software features RT Extreme for real-time compositing and effects, an enhanced user interface, real-time color correction tools and enhanced audio editing capabilities. Final Cut Express 2 is available immediately.


iLife '04

iLife '04 features major new versions of iPhoto, iMovie and iDVD, and introduces GarageBand, a new music application that turns your Mac into a musical instrument and recording studio. iLife '04 also features the recently-released iTunes 4.2, Apple's digital music jukebox software which includes the iTunes Music Store. iLife '04 will be available on January 16, and will be included with all new Macs sold. An iLife Up-To-Date upgrade package is available to all customers who purchase a new Mac on or after January 6 that does not include iLife '04.


Apple introduces iPod mini

Apple on Today introduced iPod mini, what company calls "the smallest portable music player ever to hold up to 1,000 CD-quality songs." The iPod mini offers 4GB of storage, a touch-sensitive Click Wheel for one-handed navigation, and is encased in an ultra-portable, lightweight anodized aluminum body available in five stylish colors -- silver, gold, pink, blue or green. The device weighs 3.6 ounces and boasts the same user interface as the full-size iPods. iPod mini for Mac and Windows will be available in the US in February for $249, and will be available worldwide in April. Optional accessories include the iPod Dock, in-ear headphones and arm band.


Billboard Charts,On iTMS

Apple's iTunes Music Store (iTMS) has added a new option that lets you browse music by yearly Billboard Hot 100 Charts (1946-2003). Apple has also added the iTunes Top 100 Albums of 2003 to the store. The top 10 for 2003 were: "On and On" by Jack Johnson, "Sacred Love" by Sting, "Life for Rent" by Dido, "Bare" by Annie Lennox, "Room On Fire" by The Strokes, "Everything to Everyone" by the Barenaked Ladies, "Afterglow" by Sarah MacLachlan, "Speakerboxxx/The Love Below" by OutKast, "In the Zone" by Britney Spears, and "Verve Remixed 2" by various artists.

It's a Red Hot Start for Apple in 2004!

Macworld SF: Netgear launches Super Wireless Media Router

Netgear today unveiled its WGT634U Super Wireless Media Router, a "third-generation" 802.11g wireless home networking solution that supports network-attached storage (NAS) via a USB 2.0 interface. The device offers transfer speeds of 108Mbps--twice as fast as other 802.11g routers--using its 108 Mbps wireless networking technology and integrates a four-port 10/100 Mbps switch. It features a double firewall (both NAT and SPI), 64-bit and 128-bit WEP encryption, WPA PSK support, multiple VPN pass-through support, URL content filtering, and security logging with e-mail alerts. Good Stuff!

Macworld SF: Sofa 0.6 Available

Sofa 0.6 updates the application that controls iTunes and manage artwork anywhere on the desktop, plays slideshow inside the covers with transition effects and many more. The new version ca display the artwork as an object (CD box, vinyl cover...), includes a completely rewritten preferences window, and fixes several bugs. The freeware runs on Mac OS X.

Macworld SF: @Last Software updates SketchUp 3.1

@Last Software (see them at booth 1543) today announced SketchUp 3.1, an update to its conceptual 3D design tool. Version 3.1 adds thumbnail images to the component browser; offers 2D vector export (PDF, EPS, DWG and DXF); features direct export of SketchUp models to Piranesi EPIX format; improves Export to 3DS; updates SketchUp's shadow feature to allow custom geographic locations for sun angle calculation. It is a free upgrade to owners of SketchUp 3.0. One of our favorite here at the Digital Dispatch.

Macworld SF: Microsoft Preview Office 2004 for Macintosh

Microsoft today previewed Office 2004, the next version of at Expo keynote. Office 2004 for the Mac includes many Mac-first features, including Project Center and other features such as Scrapbook, a new Excel page layout view, new Word note-taking features, compatibility reports, voice recording functions, and other new features. Office 2004 will be available in same three versions a the same prices. Microsoft also free upgrades to Office 2004 for all new purchases of Office v.X

Macworld SF: Microsoft announces Virtual PC 7 with G5 support

Microsoft announces Virtual PC 7 with G5 support
Microsoft today announced Virtual PC 7 for Mac OS X, an update to the emulation software for Mac OS X that provides access to Windows-only software, networks and devices. Virtual PC for Mac Version 7 with Windows XP Professional will ship for the first time as part of Office 2004 for Mac Professional Edition and as a stand-alone product in the first half of 2004. Virtual PC 7 will be available with other "guest" operating systems a few months after this debut. VP7 will include performance and usability improvements, as well as compatibility with the Power Mac G5

Macworld SF: Panther User be Advised: Maxtor Innovate Again

Maxtor is pleased to announce today that an update is available on www.maxtor.com
that allows its Maxtor OneTouch FireWire/1394 external storage drive to become
a boot drive on Apple platforms.

With the OneTouch drive, Maxtor marries speed, storage, backup and ease-of-use
in one product. The award-winning OneTouch external drive simply connects via
a FireWire (or USB port) found on virtually every Mac on the market today.
It's one of the most flexible and compatible external hard drives available.
Maxtor also offers an exclusive Mac-formatted version that provides up to 250GB
for consumers, businesses -- or anyone -- needing a large amount of storage space
for storing and/or backing up data including large graphics, games, videos, music
and personal files. What a great idea! No wonder it was the Digital Dispatch December 2003 Product of the Month.

If you are planning to attend Macworld, we will be showing the OneTouch during
the show (Booth #716 in the Moscone Center) and will be available to answer any
questions. We would love to see you; just come by the booth.

Macworld SF: RadTech offers Notebook Enhancement Clinics

RadTech offers Notebook Enhancement Clinics
during Macworld San Francisco 2004
Notebook clinics to polish and restore displays with marks and scuffs,
tune up tight hinges, correct and optimize chassis alignments.
MacWorld San Francisco - January 5, 2004 – RadTech™, producers of innovative
solutions for today’s digital lifestyle, will be offering Notebook Enhancement Clinics
during Macworld SF 2004.
The clinics will be offered at RadTech’s booth # 2618 / South Hall, Tuesday through
Thursday from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm.
Of special interest to many notebook users will be the ability of RadTech’s
ScreensaRz™ to restore displays – buffing away scuffs and keymarks, restoring LCD
panels to like new condition.
Constructed from RadTech’s exclusive Optex™ fabric – developed using today’s most
advanced optical polishing technology – ScreensavRz provide a single solution for total
display care. ScreensaRz safely clean, polish and restore LCD screens, eliminating the
need for sprays or wet wipes. Used as a screen protector, ScreensavRz shield displays
from damage and abrasion.
During the notebook clinics, with the use of RadTech’s TiGlide™ and iGlide™ chassis
enhancement kits, RadTech will show notebook users how to correct and optimize
PowerBook chassis alignment and display hinge tension for smooth, effortless rotation.
And, how to silence noisy, creaking iBook hinges - without disassembly.
While at the show, you will also be able to see the full line of RadTech products such as
Wildeepz™ display cushion upgrades, PowerSleevz™ form-fitting sleeve cases for
PowerBooks and iBooks, and PodSleevz, the elegant iPod sleeve case that provides
full control, right through the case!

Macworld SF:Prosoft Engineering Debuts Two New Products

Prosoft Engineering, makers of professional-grade software for the rest of us, introduces Data Backup 2.0 and Data Rescue X version 10.4 at Macworld San Francisco 2004. Demonstrations of Data Backup 2.0 and Data Rescue X v10.4 are available in booth # 834.

Prosoft\'s award-winning Data Backup, a full-featured, easy-to-use backup utility, has a whole new look and feel. With a brand new user interface, streamlined functionality and faster transfers, Data Backup 2.0 allows you to perform backups with minimal effort.

Prosoft?s award-winning Data Rescue X, an emergency file recovery program, debuts version 10.4 with a new user interface, faster recovery, and extended capabilities. With the addition of Content Based Recovery, Data Rescue X v10.4 supports flash media cards from digital cameras and MP3 players. Data Rescue X v10.4 will even recover deleted pictures from media cards.

Both new products will be integrated into Prosoft?s Data Safety Suite, a bundle including Data Backup, Data Recycler and Data Rescue, offering complete protection from data loss.

Macworld SF: Keyspan introduces USB Server

Keyspan this week will introduce its USB Server that connects USB devices to a Mac or PC via a wired or wireless Ethernet-based LAN. The USB Server –- compatible with Mac OS X 10.2.8 and higher -- will ship late in the first quarter of this year. Similar to a USB print server, the USB Server enables attached USB devices to be used and shared by client computers on a LAN. In addition to printers, the USB Device Server supports other USB devices such as hard drives, scanners and more. It provides four USB ports, connects to 10/100 Ethernet networks via an RJ45 connector and supports static IP, DHCP, and Apple's Rendezvous address assignment.

Macworld SF: eZediaQTI 2.0 unveiled

eZedia today will announce eZediaQTI 2.0 for Mac OS X, the latest version of the multimedia authoring software that uses drag-and-drop technology for creating Web sites, online presentations, interactive movies and Internet banners with no HTML programming knowledge required. Version 2.0 will feature a new interface; an Attributes Panel that allows direct access to object information for easier editing; free themed templates; the ability to customize button colors, styles, and text; enhanced text handling with advanced formatting capabilities; and a built-in spell check.

Macworld SF: Griffin Announces SightLight

Griffin has announced the Griffin SightLight, a light that slips over the iSight and shares its FireWire connection, adding additional light for those late-night mood scenes you're trying to create with your iSight. It even has an ambient light sensor which will adjust the amount of light based on the ambient light in the room. Perfect for sharing that memorable moment with your buddy list.

Retrospect 6 ships

Dantz has announced the imminent release Retrospect 6, a backup app for Macs running X.3. It is also compatible with the Xserve and its multi-terabytes of data with support for SCSI and Fibre Channel tape libraries.

"Retrospect 6.0 is the culmination of nearly two decades of industry-leading innovation and refinement based on the real-world needs of our customers," said Tony Barbagallo, marketing, VP. "With this release, Dantz continues our proud history of protecting the creative intellectual property of Macintosh users."

Retrospect 6.0 features include:

• No limit to the size of volumes that can be backed up or the amount of data stored in a Backup Set;
• Support for most (emphasis added) SCSI and Fibre Channel tape libraries;
• Improved user interface to manage drives, tapes and cleaning tapes;
• Backups to disks can span multiple FireWire or USB hard drives.
• The Retrospect 6.0 product CD also includes Retrospect 5.1 for Macs running OS 9.

Macworld SF: XtremeMac Best Keep Secret; the iSight Travel Case

Even if XtremeMac have not put the emphasis at the Macworld on this product (iSight Travel Case), we feel it's wort a look. Enough said go and see what we are talking about and i believe that like us you'll say; "Wow what a great idea"

http://www.xtrememac.com/forisight/isight.shtml

Macworld SF: XtremeMac announces the Xtremity iPod Accessory System

XtremeMac, the premier accessory manufacturer for Apple Computer's iPod, is proud to announce the Xtremity iPod Accessory System for Apple iPods with dock connectors. The Xtremity redefines iPod accessory design with the most elegant and well thought out system ever introduced to iPod customers.

The foundation of the Xtremity system is the Xtremity iPod Case, designed to be a natural extension of the iPod. It forms the basis for seamless integration with a number of add on accessories such as battery packs, FM transmitters, Bluetooth Wireless Transmitters, belt- clips, dash mounts and more. All of the add-ons simply slide in place on the back of the Xtremity case and "disappear" behind the iPod, maintaining its elegant design. Cool, very Cool!

Macworld SF: XtremeMac announces the SportWrap iPod Armband

XtremeMac, the premier accessory manufacturer for Apple Computer's iPod, is proud to announce the SportWrap iPod Armband, the first true sports case designed specifically for the active iPod user. The SportWrap iPod Armband is the first true sports case designed specifically for the active iPod user.  Whether riding a bike, jogging, running or working out, the SportWrap iPod Armband allows the user to enjoy high quality audio without the skips, bounces and other maladies previously associated with so-called “sport cases.”

XtremeMac designed the SportWrap from the ground up specifically to meet the needs of the active iPod user.  Fit and function were paramount to the design, which starts with putting the iPod in the ideal location for minimizing iPod motion while maximizing usability.  As a result, your iPod doesn’t get in the way of your exercise, and your exercise doesn’t get in the way of your music!

The SportWrap is made from Neoprene, a durable, water resistant, washable material that breathes and flexes with the user.  The comfortable armband is adjustable to fit almost all users, extremely easy to take on and off, and comes with an extension for larger arms.  SportWrap is designed to go on either arm, and is able to hold the iPod in either vertical orientation, giving the user maximum flexibility.  The play-through cover protects the iPod from moisture and the elements while allowing the user complete operation of all iPod functions.  There is even a convenient place to store excess earbud cord safely out of the way of moving arms and legs.

Macworld SF: XtremeMac Demonstrates Advanced Wireless Audio Technology

XtremeMac, the premier accessory manufacturer for Apple Computer's iPod, is proud to announce it will be debuting and demonstrating the first and only extended distance, high-fidelity, wireless audio streaming technology at MacWorld San Francisco, January 6th through the 10th.

XtremeMac will be demonstrating high-fidelity, stereo, wireless audio streaming from an audio source such as the iPod to an audio playback device at line-of-sight distances in excess of 300 feet. The core technology, developed by XtremeMac’s technology partner, Infinite Range Technologies, is based upon Class 1, Advanced Audio Distribution Profile (A2DP) Bluetooth standards.

XtremeMac is developing a number of products based upon this exclusive technology.  The first such product will pair compact transmitter and receiver units and allow the user to stream wireless audio from a source such as an iPod or computer to a remotely located playback device such as a home or car stereo, wireless headphones, or portable speakers. The transmitter is battery operated and small enough to be comfortably carried as an iPod accessory. The product is expected to be available in Spring 2004.

Unlike mainstream Bluetooth audio solutions which are low-quality, short-range solutions designed for applications such as cell phone headsets, XtremeMac’s solution exploits the power of the A2DP Class 1 Bluetooth specification to deliver high-quality, long-range, stereo wireless audio for the first time ever.

“XtremeMac believes that this technology is the most significant advance in audio since the iPod and iTunes,” said Gary Bart, President and CEO of XtremeMac. “Most of the companies looking to enter this arena are basing their products on Class 2 Bluetooth technology, restricting them to distances of 20 to 30 feet line-of-sight. We exceed 300 feet!  This allows the user, in normal indoor environments, to have the power to transmit high-quality audio wirelessly throughout a household while our competitors will be stuck in one room.”

“What’s truly exciting about this technology is the wireless world that will be opened up to the user as more and more companies come out with products that will incorporate this technology,” said Mr. Bart.  “This mean’s that XtremeMac’s transmitter, which can be connected to the iPod, a home computer, or any other audio source, will be compatible with all A2DP compliant playback devices, such as Bluetooth enabled car stereos, wireless headphones, and more.  Tripping over wires or dealing with the limited bandwidth and quality of car FM transmitters for the iPod will be a thing of the past.”

For a demonstration of this amazing new technology, visit XtremeMac at MacWorld Expo in San Francisco’s Moscone Center, booth 2137, January 6th through the 10th.

Macworld SF: Griffin Preview iTalk voice recorder for 3G iPods

Griffin Technology today announced the iTalk Voice Recorder for the iPod. The stylish matching accessory snaps directly on top of any "3G" (third-generation) iPod and turns it into a fully functional voice recorder and playback device. In addition to its built-in microphone and internal speaker; the iTalk has a connector that supports both headphone monitoring and the use of an external microphone.Schedule for April.

Macworld SF: Intelli Innovations releases IntelliScanner Collector

Intelli Innovations today debuted its IntelliScanner Collector, a personal BarcodeReader built for Mac OS X. Designed as an integrated hardware software solution designed to automatically input and organize books, DVDs,CDs, tapes, and other media collections. "The new IntelliScanner Collector utilizes the barcode found on media items, along with Internet data sources, for fast retrieval of title information, details, and artwork. It bundles an IntelliScanner barcode reader, locking USB cable, and companion software kit.

CE Software unveils Trans Lucy 1.0 DVD player

CE Software today announced the release of Trans Lucy 1.0, a DVD player for Mac OS X 10.3 which "lets users view movies on their computer in a way never seen before. With Trans Lucy movies float above all other applications and can even be displayed translucently letting users see and work with their documents 'behind the scenes.' Trans Lucy allows users to click and type right through the video as if it were not even there."

MacworldSF: Must Have Book release; OS X Killer Tips andThe Mac OS X Conversion Kit

Scott Kelby will release the Panther editions of his Mac OS X Killer Tips andThe Mac OS X Conversion Kit at the Expo this week. Attendees will have the exclusive opportunity to pick up advance copies at the Peachpit Press booth or the NAPP/Wacom booth where Kelby will be sharing Panther tips, answering questions, and signing autographs.

MacworldSF: Contour releases Key Composer for ShuttlePRO V.2

Contour Design today released Key Composer, a new keystroke macro creation and management functionality for its ShuttlePRO V.2multimedia jog/shuttle controller. With Key Composer, Mac users can now assign multiple keystroke combinations, or macros, to execute from a single button on the ShuttlePRO V.2. These macros can be executed either all at once, or step by step, offering much more control over audio/video applications. Key Composer is built into Version 2.5 of the Macintosh driver for the ShuttlePRO V.2, which is available now from the company's website. Contour will be featuring the ShuttlePRO V.2 with Key Composer for Macintosh at this week's Expo.

MacworldSF: Prosoft Engineering Showcase the New Data Backup 2.0

Prosoft Engineering will be exhibiting next week at Macworld San Francisco. If attending, please stop by booth #834 for demonstrations of the new Data Backup 2.0, a full-featured, easy to use backup utility with a new user interface, Data Recycler, an instant undelete program with file shredding included, and get a sneak peek at the new user interface and additional features of Data Rescue.

MacworldSF: Radtech To Present Stunning New Products

RadTech today announces new products - MacTruck Notebook Case, X-ScreensavRz and PodSleevz - to be unveiled at MacWorld Conference and Expo, January 5-9th.

The RadTech MacTruck notebook case, by CompuShell, a professional-grade enclosure designed to be the most rugged and functional case available for both transporting and using late model Mac notebooks.

The MacTruck provides notebook protection under the most severe conditions imaginable.
In tests, the case survived intact and remained functional even after being run over by a full-size, four wheel drive truck. The case also retained its form during a test in which the truck parked one of its front tires squarely on the cases side. The heavy-duty version is constructed of 3mm thick 6061 aluminum alloy and weighs about 5 lbs.

MacTruck cases, sized for each Mac portable, add minimal bulk and allow complete use of the notebook without removing it - providing full access to all ports and optical drives. The opened case can also be manipulated to provide a slight incline for more ergonomic keyboarding. The cases feature a durable, powder-coated finish, topped by an epoxy clear-coat. Available in 3 appealing colors - Brushed Aluminum, Aqua, and Deep Red.
The RadTech MacTruck - Ruggedized defined.

RadTech will have a limited supply of MacTruck cases for sale at their booth. orders for MacTruck cases will also be taken at the show. Pricing starts at $199 USD.

Also debuting at MWSF, the new X-ScreensavRz. This new edition is black in color and features an elegantly debossed “X”. Constructed from RadTech’s exclusive Optex fabric, codeveloped with the optical polishing industry, RadTech’s ultra-thin ScreensavRz provide single solution LCD care. ScreensavRz provide LCD display protection, cleaning and refinishing (abrasion and keymark removal) without the need for chemical sprays or wet-wipes.

RadTech will also be showcasing their new control-thru PodSleevz case. The PodSleevz is the ultimate, full-coverage protective sleeve case for 3G iPods.. Based on RadTech’s popular PowerSleevz notebook sleeves, the PodSleevz formfitting case adds almost no bulk to Apple’s svelte iPod, and is the first case to fully envelope the iPod while allowing operation of the devices touch control buttons right through the case! The PodSleevz features control zones debossed into its 0.8mm thick Optex face which provides perfect control sensitivity.

Weighing a feathery 4 grams, PodSleevz utilize a supple, double polished Vinyl window for iPod display protection, as well as a die cut knock-out for docking port cable access. The PodSleevz allow full use of Apple’s included clip case, as well as most third party iPod accessories; Griffin iTrip, Belkin Voice Recorder, Altec Lansing’s inMotion, etc.

RadTech will have plenty of product on hand at MacWorld Expo, South hall booth #2618.
RadTech products will also be available at the Think Different Store’s South hall booth, #2634, and Developer Depot, North hall booth #3851.

Happy New Year 2004

We just want to take this occasion to wish to all our readers a great and Happy New Year.

Publication of The Digital Dispatch will Resume in mid Jan.

Macromedia introduces Director MX 2004

Macromedia today announced Macromedia Director MX 2004, the latest version of the industry standard multimedia authoring tool. The new version adds support for JavaScript, Flash MX 2004 content, DVD-Video, and the ability to create projector files for both Mac and Windows platforms. Other features include custom names for channels and sprites, support for Windows Media, significant Flash performance improvements, Stage docking, an improved Lingo syntax, new XML parsing, and many other features. It expected to ship in English in February .

Adobe debuts Adobe InDesign CS PageMaker Edition

Adobe today announced Adobe InDesign CS PageMaker Edition, an extension to InDesign CS to help PageMaker users "make a quick and successful" transition to its InDesign layout and design package. It includes a full version of Adobe InDesign CS software as well as a new PageMaker Plug-in Pack, templates, and training materials. It will ship in the first quarter of this year and will run on Mac OS X. Adobe will cease further development of PageMaker.

Discreet announces combustion 3 for Mac OS X

Autodesk's Discreet today introduced a Mac OS X version of combustion 3, its visual effects and 3D compositing desktop software designed for web content, professional video motion graphics, and effects creation for independent feature films and HDTV content. Version 3.0 offers customizable brushes, savable presets, timeline markers, and DV capture and output. It also features the new Editing Operator for integrated editing; support for JavaScript-based expressions; and support for Flash Output. It will ship "early" this year .

MacworldSF: iBook Owners Threaten Macworld Protests

iBook owners with defective logic boards have threatened to take direct action - right to the Mecca of Macdom, Macworld San Francisco next week, Macworld UK reports. Some 800-plus iBook owners have expressed interest in a class action against Apple over alleged iBook logic board failures. Leading the action has been the web site blackcider.com. Owners have claimed a variety of problems, including outright failure of the motherboard and flickering screens. blackcider.com has also placed a .wav file on line which allegedly has an Apple customer service representative stating there are no known issues with the iBook logic boards.

A number of on-line petitions have also appeared, which ask Apple to address the issue. Apple was allegedly deleting negative iBook posts from its discussion boards, although IGM found at time of writing a large number of threads on Apple's iBook boards concerning logic board failure.

Mars team uses Macs

The US landed a rover on Mars last night, which is great news, but not Mac related. However, over at the NASA site is a photo of the celebration at JPL (Jet Propulsion Laboratory), the team that created the rover. In the shot are 3 Powerbooks on a table. Not bad considering there are only 4 computers in the shot. Now we know why the mission was so successful... Let's just hope they don't use iPhoto to manage all of the pictures coming back.(Source MacMerc)