Have you tried a digital pen?

I take a ton of notes during the work day which is great for going back to validate what someone said

two months ago.   What if at the same time you notebook is digitized at the same time.   Now you can with Livescribe Pens.   Their new pen converts everything you write into a digital note so you have it whenever you need it.   Say goodbye to digging through piles of old notebooks to find a fact. Now you can just query your digital notes.   Check out the latest LiveScribe Pens.

NetGear DOCSIS 3.0 High Speed Modem - CM600

NetGear DOCSIS 3.0 High Speed Modem

We replaced our old cisco cable modem and what a difference.   This has multiple channels to take advantage of Xfinity eBlast service.

I highly recommend this modem it's worth the extra $75.

NetGear DOCSIS 3.0 High Speed Modem

Home Automation - Google

When will Google really jump into the home automation or whole home networking game?

Imagine this:  you come home and your door unlocks because your blue tooth is recognized by your front door smart lock.   As you enter the lights come on room by room and the temperature adjusts to your presets.

You remember you have a question so you ask your house - "Betty, what is the weather going to be like in mountain view"   then Betty answers in your best voice.   Well Jason, in the morning it will be slightly overcast but will warm up in the afternoon.    The nice thing is she gave me the temp in human terms not spoken like a computer - it will be 65 degrees in the early morning, 75 degrees by lunch... etc.

Come on Google buy Leviton and get on with it.

Jive vs. Lithium Community SaaS Platforms

If you are running a community in an Enterprise environment odds are you are using Jive or Lithium.   In some cases I've seen Drupal in the mix but only in highly customized situations.

I've worked projects using all three platforms will do my best to setup pros and cons based on the type of community you intend to run.    The base question is who is your audiance?

Internal to replace Microsoft SharePoint or your intranet in total or External or public facing interacting with your customers on the web.

Over the next few posts we'll dig into the front end as well as the back end features and how your resources come into play.

If you have questions or comments please feel free to post and I will be glad to answer as quickly as possible.

Thanks

Jason

New Microsoft Mouse for Surface 3

I caved an sprung for a new Bluetooth mouse created by Microsoft for the new Surface 3.  The firm factor is actually cool allowing it to flatten out for travel situations.  Downside was the cost. 69.95.  I'll try it out and post next week.

New Canon MG5620 Wireless Printer from Fry's

I just picked up a new Canon MG5620 Wireless Printer from Fry's for $49.99 during their New Years special.

Great deal but difficult to procure from Fry's.  No one new about the special codes to enter to redeem the discount even at the register.  We had to push to get the correct price but in the end it was a great deal for this versatile wireless printer.

I highly recommend Canon.  I've had a MP160 for over 10 years without issues.  We put this little printer through the ringer and it hung in there.

Domain Name Protection - Mispellings

Protecting your domain by registering mispellings was always important especially if there are common mispellings.    Mobile and Tablet devices have smaller keyboards adding an additional error equation to the mix.

I've noticed that common domains which I do not have bookmarked end up misspelled on my iPhone over and over causing errant traffic to domains that have been squatted upon.   

I recommend when you choose a name you account for mobile and tablet keyboard errors along with your normal misspellings.

Real Estate Agents Dream Laptop Tablet Combo

We have used tablets since they first came out to quickly access the MLS, sign contracts and work on the fly.   The HP TZ series was the best of the best.

Then came along Asus Taichi with a revolutionary screen share mode.  Wow.

This feature allows Agents to share their screen while previewing properties with clients anywhere at anytime which out handing a laptop back and forth.  Very convient.

The laptop tablet combo has great speed based on it Intel i7 processor and 4GB or Ram.

The tablet mode is also very well done eliminating the need to spin or flip the screen.

Check out the Asus TaiChi here on YouTube.

Have you seen the Parrot QuadCopter?

Wow,  the DYI market has changed since remote control cars, boats and small aircraft.  The AR.Drone 2.0 quadcopter armed with onboard GPS and Video capabilities is downright awesome. 

There are so many applications for small businesses, budding filmmakers and general enthusiasts.  Take a  look at http://ardrone2.parrot.com/

Is the desktop/laptop market dead?

Ok, we have all heard that desktop sales are down and now the news is laptops are dead.

Really?

I don't buy it for one second.   You mean to tell me we are going to be walking around with a small mobile device that meets everyone's needs?   Maybe in 10 years - maybe.

For one power consumption is still a problem that hardware manufactures have not resolved.

The next issue to content with is interface and connectivity.   Have you used an iPad without a keyboard or try writing a long email on an iPhone.  Painful is one word.

We have solved storage to an extent.  Cloud storage is readily available but is it truly secure.  Maybe.

Keep you laptops handy for now and when you get home sync it with your bullet-proof desktop.

The problem with tablets is there is no way of connecting to everything in a stable, secure fashion either for consumers or for enterprise users.    Yes, you can add a keyboard but the Apps that are available just aren't there yet.   They will be but no just yet.

Stay tuned connected people.

Structure Wiring for you Home - 2014

Here's why I am going to spend more time reviewing home automation or structured wiring solutions.

Structured wiring systems simplify and enhance your lifestyle and create long-term value for your home.   I believe it is a key component to building equity in your home especially if you view your home as an asset first.

Today's entertainment and lifestyle system have come a long way over the past ten years.  These systems often include computers, smartphones, gaming devices, audio players, appliances, DVR or set-top boxes, and many other IP or connectable devices.

In addition, communications and entertainment services continue to evolve and provide more choices. A structured cabling system provides a solid platform to build on as technology evolves.   The quality and type of wired system you install is an effective way to integrate and utilize changing products and services to enhance your lifestyle today and in the future.

Home Networking and Tech for 2014

Technical and hardware/software configurations have come a long way in the past 10 years.  In 2000, I was into wiring homes with OnQ now Legrand hardware.   The fact that you could have a home NOC as the brain to your home controlling lights, temperature, window coverings, alarm, video and of course wired/wireless internet access was amazing.

Today, Legrand and other hardware/software manufacturers have raised the bar with a myriad of configurations that link to your smartphone giving a home owner more control than ever.

What do you think are the basic necessities of a truly decked out tech home?

Here are a few of my top picks:

• Full Alarm Control - monitored
• Full Video Cameras
• Internal and External Window Covering Access
• HVAC Control
• Switch/Router Internet Control
• Home Theater Control
• Easy to configure  macros

All of these features are available via direct terminal access, tablet access or remote secure WAN via smartphone or web access,

Thanks

Social Media Management Systems - What's What?

What are you going to stabilize the spread of new software across your company.   Problem: You have groups using Spreadfast or SocialEngage and other using nothing.

Solution: Stop the madness, and choose one platform that will meeting your current needs and allow you grow for years to come.

Here is the short list of great social media management systems:

• Sprinklr - Enterprise
• Hootsuite - small to medium
• Radian6 - Enterprise
• Shoutlet - Enterprise
• Crimson Hexagon - Enterprise
• Wildfire App by Google
• Sprout Social - flexiable

One major problem all of these systems solve is integration into the firehouse of data coming from Twitter, Facebook, Google and to the less extent LinkedIn and YouTube.

The key is to stop the proliferation of groups using different systems to manage the same content.  If you standardize your platform, monitoring, reporting and management becomes easier.

New Years Resolution time - get starting in consolidating your social systems into one after researching each company deciding which is best for the health of your company long term.

Vacation Technology Woes

How much technology do you need while on vacation?

Ideally, your plan should be to unplug and relax especially if a tropical beach is involved.  (It was.)

Ok, you got me this story is how I brought an iPad to Cabo San Lucas thinking it would cover me in case I needed to interact online.   I was lured into a false sense of security based on access to email and a few handy apps allowing me to access files back home.

As we packed for the trip, I thought to myself this time I'm not going to bring my laptop and travel light. (And we did.)   Two small rollers and lightweight backpacks would free us from visiting the dreaded baggage claim in Mexico.  Everything went as planned on board the plane to checking our minimalist luggage with the bellman at the resort until our room was ready until one dreaded email.

5:30 pm Day Two:  Happy Hour -   email reads:  please fill out this documentation URGENT with a link to a website that is not too iPad friendly.   Chrome and Safari were useless on this Website causing a cascading failure in my plan.  

I should of brought my Dell Laptop running Windows 7.   (Note to Self - Don't Forget you Laptop)

Great product to protect your tech while you are on the move

Tumi Luggage is a solid brand who puts out outstanding products.  I personally am a fan and own many original Tumi Classic pieces featuring ballistic nylon which has been very durable.

This new backpack speaks to me as well as the spokesperson Vice.  It screams "Techie!"
Check it out

A new bigger iPhone coming?

What do you think about the new iPhone 5.7 that is the same size of the Galaxy S4?

Personally, if you have read any of my previous blog posts the Galaxy S4 was a tad too big for me.  I love the OS and the screen size but it was too big for your pocket leaving you with the dreaded holster which is almost a fanny pack, right?   What are your thoughts?

Finally a Window 8/android tablet

 Samsung announced  the ATIV Tab 3, which runs Windows 8 and Android, allowing access to applications like mail, music and apps.  The battery life is stated at 10 hours plus it will feature 4g/LTE connectivity which is important.

Sign me up!  The Galaxy Note 10.1 interface blows away the Apple iPad.

Retina or Not - Is the difference worth it?

Well I can tell you the screen is bright and crisp but looking at it side by side against a Samsung Note 10.1 I couldn't visually tell the difference.

Is it worth the upgrade? I would say yes on the Mac Book and you don't have a choice with the new iPad hardware.  If you buy an iPad 3 you can get the old display but I would recommend going with the newer version.

Happy Surfing!

Apple iPhone 5s - Next Version - Revisted

Apple iPhone 5 is the best phone I've ever had period.

I've upgraded from the old ipaq - remember you had to have an ipaq to get into the special party at CES in Las Vegas many moons ago.   The little strange phone computer device with a tiny antenna.
It was cool, then.    Had the BlackBerry Bold - great for what is was and what it could do.



The new iPhone 5 is great with a longer sleeker form factor and bright screen but it has its flaws when comparing it to other phones on the market.   I have a Verzion version which will not allow you to be on a call and on the web simultaneously which is a bummer.  AT&T has the edge but if the speed is what I experienced it isn't much of an upgrade.

For instance the Samsung Galaxy S4 has its pro and many cons.  I will concede I did choose the Galaxy over the iPhone5 to start with but the AT&T service was terrible, Broadband speeds were a joke and predictive texting nearly had me committed.   When we talk about form factor the galaxy is the right size phone if you play in the NFL or are kin to ET.  Too Big.

Let's hope the next generation of iPhone doesn't grow to compete with screen size.

Tablet Wars Apple vs Samsung

I've tried both and hands down the winner in usability and functionality is the Samsung Note 10.1 over the Apple iPad 4 with Retina.

Why you say? 

Because the way the android OS seamlessly flows with finger movements or the integrated S pen.

I even purchased the Jot Stylist for the iPad with no real joy.

Go Samsung for tablet and smart tv they both work great with Directv

ASUS - Tablets- ASUS Transformer Pad Infinity TF700T

If you are looking for a great tablet look no further than the new Asus TF700T.  The specs on this tablet blow away competitors.    Purchasing a tablet with so many options is tough especially when you have Apples iPad and the new Microsoft Surface PRO/RT in the mix.   The question is do you need an iOS app or the ability to use a Microsoft program to fully utilize your tablet.  Android may be the best option.  Check out the new -

ASUS - Tablets- ASUS Transformer Pad Infinity TF700T

Modern Day Transportation

Sitting on Caltrain delayed again because someone either tried to make a red light and was hit by the train or another early morning jumper decided to end it and everyone's timely commute. I don't mean to sound harsh but wtf?

I rather see you get done help but if you are going to do it leave everyone else out of if. Frustrated yes. Caltrain says an 1/2 but the radio say 2 hours who do you think is telling the truth?

This happens all too frequently.

Caltrain needs to up their game with surveillance cameras,tire spikes do when the gates are down cars can't make it on the track

IPhone 5 vs. Galaxy S4

The new iPhone 5 is larger than it's predecessor, faster based on chip and is plugged into either 4G or LTE speeds where available based on carrier.  I did not own an iPhone before this model and I might not own one after it.

The new Galaxy S4 has some very cool features that Apple has yet to integrate.  NFC, new built in software to track health and a few other cool apps.   The downside is the size of the phone.  Granted a larger screen is great but it's too big for many people I've asked especially my wife.

We initially bought the new Galaxy S3 and were blown away about the integration point with google our Samsung smart TV and other apps.   Connectivity with At&t was terrible.  When I called to ask about our area the tech told me we were a quite a distance from the nearest 4G tower with a follow-up of "Are there a lot of trees around your property?"   We live in heart of Silicone Valley, really At&t.  

Needless to say we returned them within the 15 day return policy with a fight.  At&t tried to bill us for a restocking fee and time we used even though it was a money back guarantee.  Eventually, we prevailed but what a pain in the $%&#.

Many people are going without a land-line these days and using their mobile phone number as their home number so pay attention to connectivity at 4G or LTE speeds when you are home within the allotted time period.  Just in case you need to change carriers.

Check out the latest slide show from Mary Meeker's presentation at Stanford. from BusinessInsider.com

Check out the latest slide show from Mary Meeker's presentation at Stanford. Thanks and happy reading

iphone 5 Lightning to 30-pin Adapter for iphone 4 or 4s, ipod touch

If you have purchased a new iphone 5 you are going to need this adapter to sync or plug into your home BOSE speakers.