Issue 7.3 May / June 2002
Printing Reviews
Printon(TM) inkjet
refill kits (ALL)
Printon(TM) inkjet refill kits provide a low-cost way to recycle empty Epson,
HP, Lexmark, and Canon inkjet cartridges from most popular models. The refill
kits use patent-pending technology that makes it possible to refill expended cartridges
to OEM specifications in less than five minutes. The process uses high-quality
inks and provides for the repressurization of the cartridge. Each kit provides
for up to three refills at a cost that is generally less than one new cartridge.
Each refill kit includes an instructional CD for Windows and Macintosh users. The process does not require drilling holes and then covering them with tape, as is common with other refill kits. $25
Contact: Klee, Inc., 2328 A Walsh Ave., Santa Clara, CA 95051, 408 492-9444, http://www.kleeinc.com, e-mail: info@kleeinc.com, fax: 408 492-9449.
WebPrint Plus 5 (MAC)
WebPrint Plus 5 is a utility that enables the user to gather information from virtually any source, and then save and print it. The accumulation and management of information compacts it, and simplifies the process of storing and printing it. Users not only print the information faster, they conserve both paper and toner/ink.
Although the utility works in most programs, it is particularly valuable when managing large amounts of information gathered from a Web search, or in consolidating e-mail messages. Users can save, edit, index, or print any part of a document from a single character to several pages, including non-contiguous portions. Users can also apply time and date stamping and annotations.
The data saved in a WebPrint Plus document can be stylized by font and point size, and can be printed with single or double spacing. $29.95
Contact: Macease, http://www.kagi.com/MacEase/default.html.
Multimedia/Graphics Reviews
Strata 3Dpro Rich Media Edition (MAC/WIN)
Strata 3Dpro Rich Media Edition is the latest and most sophisticated version of this 3D graphics and animation program. The rich media edition designation refers to the capability now provided for outputting rendered 3D images and animations and exporting them as Macromedia Flash files and other vector formats for the Web or for print (see the impressive Flash examples at http://www.strata.com/flash/strata_flash.html). The production of Flash output is enabled through the use of the Swift 3D(tm) PowerModule from Electric Rain Inc. Users have the option of outputting files in pixel format (JPEG and video) or vector formats. The range of output options includes: RAViX IITM SWF (Macromedia Shockwave), RAViX IITM AI (Adobe Illustrator), RAViX IITM EPS (Generic EPS), RAViX IITM SVG, 3DMF, Amapi, AVI, BMP, Cult 3D Designer, DXF, JPEG, PICT, QuickTime, QuickTime VR, SHM, Strata 3Dpro, TGA, TIFF, VRML 1.0/2.0.
Strata 3Dpro incorporates all of the components necessary for producing high-quality 3D images and animations. The Modeling component contains a broad range of powerful tools including Splines, Polygons, Lathing, Skinning, Metaballs, Extruding, Booleans, and Sweeping. Users can also import models from popular 3D and illustration programs. The Texture component provides options to control Ambient, Bump, Caustics, Diffuse, Glow, Opacity, Reflectivity, Specular and other options. The Lighting component includes animatable lights, gels, intensity, soft edges, directional, and many more options. The Animation component provides complete control over every aspect of animation, including bend, twist, stretch, spin and morph. Finally, the Rendering component produces fast and realistic output, with added effects such as blur, lens flare, and fog.
The list of program tools, options, and functions is extensive, and provides the user with all of the capabilities necessary to produce highly professional, photo-realistic images and animations. $895
Contact: Strata, 567 S. Valley View Dr., St. George, UT 84770, 800-STRATA3D, 435 628-5218, http://www.strata.com, fax: 435 628-9756.
Digital Audio
SmartSound SonicFire Pro (MAC/WIN)
SmartSound SonicFire Pro is an incredibly useful and productive tool for creating soundtracks that precisely match the length of any defined portion of video using a patented process. Users can import their video (DV, AVI, MPEG, QuickTime) directly into the program, producing the scores for multiple scenes in a single session, and then previewing the completed video in realtime. The scored video can be exported as a complete project with the soundtrack attached. There is no faster, easier, or productive way to accomplish this process that we know of.
SonicFire Pro comes bundled with royalty-free SmartSound-encoded music files, and additional libraries are available ($69 to $129). These specially mastered files can be composed in practically any length to perfectly match video clips. The files are encoded in segments which are embedded with digital information that is used to intelligently assemble them into clips of any length.
Music clips can be located and selected easily using the SonicFire Maestro process which leads the user to appropriate selections through a wizard-like interface. Users can also import MP3 and WAV files which can be treated in much the same way as SmartSound-encoded music. Tools are provided so that the user can identify smooth edit points for their imported files. $349
Contact: Sonic Desktop Software, POB 3205, Chatsworth, CA 91313-3205, 800 454-1900, 818 718-9999, http://www.sonicdesktop.com, fax: 818 718-9990
File Management Reviews
Retrospect Server Backup Version 5.0 (MAC)
Retrospect Server Backup Version 5.0 for Mac OS X provides reliable, easy, and fast backup for up to 100 server, desktop, and notebook computers. The program can restore a single file, or an entire hard drive, and any number of files in between. The program utilizes IncrementalPLUS(TM) technology, to maximize the efficiency of each backup, only copying the files that have changed or have been added. Rather than just sense the state of an archive bit, which is the process used by many backup programs, Retrospect simultaneously checks several file attributes, such as name, creation date, modification date, etc., to determine if the file needs to be backed up or not.
File backup and restore is one of the most important, and regretably, one of the most neglected, of all computer maintenance tasks. It is absolutely essential for every part of the digital publishing process, where file failure can not be tolerated, and deadlines can not be missed...there is no better, easier, nor more reliable solution than Retrospect.
The longstanding reputation that Retrospect has earned is based on its ease of use and administration, and the vast library of drivers (numbering in the hundreds) that are provided to support the use of practically any storage device. Clients can reach storage devices using TCP/IP in practically any network configuration...across routers, and with fixed or dynamic addressing. When a restore session is necessary, the program simplifies the process, regardless if it is a single file or an entire hard drive. Using the EasyScript (TM) feature, users can devise custom scripts for each computer on the network.
The restore process is highly reliable, with the original files being compared, byte-for-byte, with the stored versions. The backed up data is encrypted for security, and can be compressed during backup allowing for greater data density (and a lower per byte storage cost).
Dantz's patented Backup Server technology (U.S. Patent No. 5,966,730) can convert any Macintosh into a Backup Server. The Backup Server intelligently polls the network and determines which computers are most in need of a backup. When a notebook computer user connects to the network, the server automatically finds it, and backs it up. The network administrator can prioritize the backup process, and schedule it for specific times. Windows clients are also supported. $249.95
Contact: Dantz Development Corporation, 4 Orinda Way, Building C, Orinda, CA 94563, 800 225-4880, 925 253-3000, http://www.dantz.com, e-mail: customer_service@dantz.com, fax : 925 253-9099.
Extensis Portfolio 6 (MAC/WIN)
Extensis Portfolio 6 is a feature-rich digital asset management application which raises the bar on the easy, efficient and effective management of digital files. It simplifies the organization, sharing and distribution of visual content, including photos, icons and logos. Users can instantly create Web pages composed of their digital assets set within a professionally designed Portfolio template, and create instant visual catalogs of selected content. The catalogs can be burned onto CD, and carry the free read-only Portfolio Browser for distribution to clients, colleagues, friends, relatives, and others.
Portfolio simplifies the process of cataloging and managing digital assets by providing a FolderSync capability that synchronizes Portfolio catalogs to the on-disk folders that contain the actual assets. The user can conduct several disk management functions, such as copy, move, rename and delete directly from within Portfolio. Other systems have a disconnect between the catalog and the content.
New to the program is the Portfolio Express Palette, a floating palette that is accessible from within any part of the user's computer system. This means that the user can find, select and use catalog contents directly from within their open creative application. Other new features include:
• Collect & Publish, which gathers images automatically, links them to a new catalog, and generates a browser from which to view them.
• Instant Cataloging, which enables the user to select any target file, folder or disk and have it cataloged instantly into Portfolio.
• Batch Renaming and Keywording, which simplifies and automates the process of naming and keywording files as they are catalogued.
• Custom QuickFind, which permits the user to conduct a search using any combination of fields.
• Send E-mail, which enables the user to select digital assets and e-mail them directly from within Portfolio.
• Rotate Original, which rotates both the catalog thumbnail and the original JPEG.
• EXIF Support, which imports the data stored in images created with digital cameras.
The Mac OS X version will be provided as a free upgrade by the Summer of 2002. $199.95
Contact: Creative Pro.com, Extensis Products Group, 1800 S.W. First Ave., Suite 500, Portland, OR 97201, 800 796-9798, 503 274-2020, http://www.creativepro.com, http://www.extensis.com, fax: 503 274-0530.
Portfolio Server Version 6.0 (MAC/WIN)
Extensis Portfolio Server Version 6.0 extends access to Portfolio catalogs, and other elements of the Portfolio feature set, to a workgroup on a scalable basis of from one to an entire organization. The server can be added at any time to an existing Portfolio client installation, and can be administered directly from the Portfolio client. The administrator can set up to four levels of password protection, and can restrict access on a user-by-user basis. The optional Portfolio SQL Connect software enables connectivity to SQL databases.
Any workgroup will benefit from the server version of Portfolio since it enables collaboration and sharing. Users access a common set of resources, benefiting from a lack of redundancy, and having everyone contribute to a single library of digital assets. Portfolio simplifies the addition of digital assets from anywhere on the user's computer system, and does not require that the Portfolio application is running. Macintosh users Control-click, and Windows users right-click on a file, folder or disk, to reveal a drop-down contextual menu providing options to add assets to an existing Portfolio catalog, or to create a new one.
Portfolio can be customized through scripting, using either AppleScript or Visual Basic to address the specific needs of digital asset users, and to make their digital workflows smoother and more automated. See the review of Portfolio Version 6.0. $2499.95
Contact: Creative Pro.com, Extensis Products Group, 1800 S.W. First Ave., Suite 500, Portland, OR 97201, 800 796-9798, 503 274-2020, http://www.creativepro.com, http://www.extensis.com, fax: 503 274-0530.
Specialized Output Reviews
Kreative Komix Super Hero Comic Book Maker (MAC/WIN)
Kreative Komix Super Hero Comic Book Maker is an easy-to-use publishing application that enables anyone, from 6 to 60, to create colorful comics with multimedia capabilities. Users can create their own comic characters, backgrounds, and props. The layout mode provides the tools necessary for composing from a single page to a complete book. Comics can be sent as e-mail greeting cards, printed, or shown using the built-in comic player. Other titles, such as the Fairy Tale Comic Book Maker are also available. $39.95
Contact: Visions Technology in Education, P.O. Box 70479, Eugene, OR 97401, 800 877-0858, http://www.toolsforteachers.com, fax: 800 816-0695.
Entertainment Reviews
realMYST (MAC)
realMYST is a unique computer game that is differentiated by 360 degree views of outstanding graphics and 3D effects. The game is immersive, surreal and beautiful. Players find themselves in a dynamic world which has its own atmosphere and weather conditions. Players walk through the environment, examining anything within view. We consider it a milestone in game design and execution. $29.99
Contact: MacPlay, 2019 N. Lamar St., Suite 240, Dallas, TX 75202-1704, 214 855-5955, http://www.macplay.com, fax: 214 855-5980.
Sheep (MAC/WIN)
Sheep is a captivating, entertaining, and challenging game that has, as its objective, the safe herding of a flock of sheep through seven worlds that are frought with hazards. The player, through their choice of four herders, attempts to lead the sheep safely through the various levels, steering them clear of obstacles that can kill them. We chose to review the game because the graphics are so compelling, the sheep are so cute, and the general operation of the game reminded us of an AI project that was undertaken at MIT's Media Lab. Definitely worth a look. $30
Contact: Feral Interactive Limited, 3 St. George's Court, 131 Putney Bridge Road, London SW15 2PA, England, 44 (0)20 8875 1375, http://www.feral.co.uk, fax: 44 (0)20 8875 1846.
Additions/Extensions Reviews
Grain Surgery Photoshop (MAC/WIN)
Grain Surgery Photoshop is a set of three Photoshop filters, one which removes grain, one which adds grain, and one which matches grain. The filters provide an incredible degree of control over a component that has a substantial influence on the appearance of an image.
Grain is generally an unwelcome artifact that can be generated from many sources. Grain Surgery uses a sophisticated, patent-pending technique to remove grain yet retain virtually all image sharpness. The filter can process halftone patterns, remove image artifacts, and other sources of image noise. The filter removes the noise and leaves almost all of the image information.
The Add Grain filter can add grain to simulate the appearance of a real photograph. The filter makes it possible to simulate many popular photographic stocks, with control over the size, intensity and color of the grain. The grain can be controlled independently in each image channel.
The Match Grain filter enables the user to extract the grain pattern from one image and apply it to another. The grain can be used as it was found in the source image, or make modifications as necessary. The filter automatically compensates for any grain that it senses in the target image. Grain can also be cut and pasted between images. Samples shown at http://www.visinf.com/gs/samples/index.shtml provide a very convincing demonstration of the power of the software. $199
Contact: Visual Infinity, 455 Spadina Ave., Suite 208, Toronto, ON M5S 2J8, Canada, 877 596-0931, 416 596-0931, http://www.visinf.com, e-mail: sales@visinf.com, fax: 416 596-2377.
PhotoCaster 3 (MAC/WIN)
PhotoCaster 3 is an Xtra for Macromedia Director that enables a user to import Photoshop files, layer by layer, into a Director cast with a single mouse click. Each imported layer appears as an individual cast member which has been indexed, anti-aliased, properly registered, and fully transparent. $199, download; $249, CD.
Contact: Media Lab, Inc., 2501 Lanyon Drive, Longmont, CO 80503, 800 282-5361, 303 546-7929, http://www.medialab.com, e-mail: pw-sales@medialab.com, fax: 303 485-9069.
Effector Sets I and II (MAC/WIN)
Effector Sets I and II are Xtras for Macromedia Director that provide special effects, such as swirling, colorization and magnification. The effects are interactive and controllable. The sets support the multiple application of two or more effects. No Lingo programming is required. Set I includes RGB and HSB colorize, magnify, rotate, seurat, swirl, mosaic, line skip, and snow. Set II includes blur, bevel, drop shadow, roil, and ripple. $99 per set, $169 for both sets, on-line.
Contact: Media Lab, Inc., 2501 Lanyon Drive, Longmont, CO 80503, 800 282-5361, 303 546-7929, http://www.medialab.com, e-mail: pw-sales@medialab.com, fax: 303 485-9069.
AlphaMania (MAC/WIN)
AlphaMania removes the jaggies from Macromedia Director cast members so that they appear smooth and anti-aliased. It provides for transparency, so that the user can create special effects such as glass buttons or objects through which the background can be seen. $249 on-line
Contact: Media Lab, Inc., 2501 Lanyon Drive, Longmont, CO 80503, 800 282-5361, 303 546-7929, http://www.medialab.com, e-mail: pw-sales@medialab.com, fax: 303 485-9069.
Splat! (MAC/WIN)
Splat! is a plug-in filter set compatible with Adobe Photoshop, Macromedia FireWorks, Jasc Paint Shop Pro, and other image editors that are compatible with the Adobe plug-in architecture. The filter suite is composed of popular Alien Skin special effects filters that are now provided with the Eye Candy 4000 user interface. The filters provide digital artists with the tools to produce frames, , textures, borders, mosaics, and other effects with ease and with the expectation of professional results. The filters are unique in that they are content-powered, that is, they depend on a variety of source images to produce their final effects...add to the source images and you expand the range of effects that can be produced.
The Frame filter produces frames, mattes, and borders, and is provided with over 100 frames that can be scaled to fit. The filter contains scalable tiles and corners that can be applied to any rectangular selection. Additional frames can be downloaded from the Alien Skin Web site.
The Resurface filter can be used to add any of over 100 high-res surface textures to any object, selection, or composition. By increasing the Height Scale value the texture map deepens. Surface files can be applied to any image, including type and backgrounds.
The Edges filter can be used to add a decorative edge to any graphic, and are particularly useful in modifying the look of type.
The Fill Stamp filter can be used to fill any selection with any of over 100 stamp libraries which are composed of themed images, such as leaves, buttons, coins, food and flowers.
Other filters include Border Stamp, which applies the Fill Stamp effect to borders; and Patchwork, which converts any selection, shape or image into a mosaic. $99
Contact: Alien Skin Software, LLC, 1111 Haynes St., Ste Zero, Raleigh, NC 27604, 919 832-4124, http://www.alienskin.com, e-mail: alien-skinfo@alienskin.com, fax: 919 832-4065.
Virtual Painter 3 (WIN )
Virtual Painter 3 is a collection of 12 special effects filters that install in JASC Paint Shop Pro or other image editors that support Adobe Photoshop compatible filters, and provide the means to convert digital photographs into realistic-looking paintings. The filters are Pastel, Collage, Rectangles, Drawing, Silk Screen, Impasto, Color Pencil, Pointillism, Oil Painting, Bouache, Watercolor, and Triangles. The paint styles can be applied to one of 12 simulated substrates, including Paper (Smooth, Medium, or Rough), Washi (Japanese rice paper), Canvas (Fine, Medium, or Rough), Stucco (Smooth, Rough, or Sand), Wood, and Cork. $49
Contact: JASC, POB 44997, 7905 Fuller Road, Eden Prairie, MN 55344-0997, 952 934-8888, 800 622-2793, http://www.jasc.com, e-mail: sales@jasc.com, fax: 952 930-9172.
Image Collection Reviews
Photo Galaxy (MAC/WIN)
Photo Galaxy is a collection of more than 1200 royalty-free digital photos contained on a single CD-ROM. The license provides for commercial use at no additional cost, a perk not often provided in standard usage contracts. The JPG images are provided at a resolution of 1760 x 1168, which translates to 4" x 6" at 300 dpi. Contact sheets are provided as a means of seeing many images at once.
The collection is quite diverse, comprising 74 different categories, such as Animals, Beach, Buildings, Cars, City, Flowers, Fruits, Landscape, Market, Night, Sky, Trees, Water, and Zoo. The images were taken in various locations in England, Wales, France, Spain, Germany and Austria. A demo can be downloaded from http://thepluginsite.com/products/photogalaxy. $29.95
Contact: The Plugin Site, Harald Heim, Tucholskystr. 120, 90471 Nurnberg, Germany, 49 911 868516, http://www.thepluginsite.de, e-mail: info@thepluginsite.de.
Hemera Photo-Objects 50,000 Volume II (MAC/WIN)
Hemera Photo-Objects 50,000 Volume II is a dual-platform collection of royalty-free photographic digital images that are differentiated from other image libraries in that the images of people, animals, and objects have had their backgrounds removed. The images, provided on eight CD-ROMs, embody the realism of photographs with the flexibility of clipart, and can be used in any publishing context: print, Web, electronic document, presentation, etc. The collection, which supports Mac OS X, OS 9 and Windows, can be sampled in a trial version of 50 free images at http://www.hemera.com.
The collection includes the thumbnail images from the first volume of 50,000 files. The user who owns Volume I can initiate a search that will return images from both volumes. The user who does not own both volumes can disable this feature. Regardless, the easy-to-use search feature facilitates the acquisition of appropriate images, quickly and effortlessly. Images can be incorporated in projects in any of four ways: using the Export Wizard, dragging and dropping to the desktop or document, copy/pasting, or saving to the hard drive or other media. Among the over 90 categories of images, which are provided in printed form in the full-color image catalog, are: agriculture, art, awards, backgrounds, birthday, buildings & streets, communication, computers, flags, flowers, food, letters & numbers, medicine, school, sports & leisure, tools, weddings, work, and more.
Photo-Objects can be used with almost any Macintosh or Windows drawing, painting, illustrating, image manipulation, or page layout program. Images are provided at a base resolution of 600 x 600, 32 bit with transparent backgrounds (24 bit RGB with an 8-bit alpha channel).
The PhotoFont Maker, included at no additional cost, provides the capability to apply any photographic texture or pattern to a headline composed of any system-installed font. The process is simple yet can produce stunning typographic effects. The package includes 200 ready-made textures, and the user can make more. $99.99
Contact: Hemera Technologies, 490 St. Joseph Blvd., Hull, Quebec, Canada J8Y 3Y7, 819 772-8200, http://www.hemera.com, fax: 819 778-6252.
Photo Galaxy 3 (MAC/WIN)
Photo Galaxy 3 entitled ""Dark Season"" contains hundreds of high-resolution photos covering the following 82 topics: Animals, Autumn, Balls, Blurred, Boat, Bridge, Buildings, Buildings2, Candles, Cars, Castle, Castle2, Children, Church, City, City Night, Clouds, Conference, Construction Site, Decoration, Dome, Dome Interior, Door, Evening Sky, Fence, Field, Fireworks, Flowers, Forest, Fountain, Garden, Graveyard, Graveyard2, House, Ice, Ice skating, Industrial Area, Lake, Lantern, Leaves, Mall, Market, Moon, Night, Night Snow, Other, Panorama, Parcels, Park, Path, Pub, Restaurant, River, Roof, Show, Sky, Skyscraper, Smoke, Snow, Snow Bridge, Snow Forest, Snow House, Snow Path, Snow Tree, Square, Stained Glass, Stairs, Station, Statue, Street, Sun, Sunny Street, Sunset, Supermarket, Tower, Train Trip, Train, Trees, Trees2, Twilight, Village, Wall, Water, Window, Xmas Deco, and Xmas Market. The images were taken at various sites in England, Wales, France, Spain, Germany and Austria and have, for the most part, an unmistakable European feel. The photos represent a diverse and interesting collection, and are provided on a royalty free basis. Low resolution contact sheet images can be viewed at http://thepluginsite.de/products/photogalaxy/index.htm. $29.95 with discounts for two or more volumes.
Contact: The Plugin Site, Harald Heim, Tucholskystr. 120, 90471 Nurnberg, Germany, 49 911 868516, http://www.thepluginsite.de, e-mail: info@thepluginsite.de.
Photo Textures II (MAC/WIN)
Photo Textures II (Photo Galaxy Volume 4) is a diverse collection of over 1000 high-resolution, royalty-free images categorized in the following topics: Ancient Stone, Autumn Leaves, Bambus, Bark, Blurred, Bottles & Cups, Branches, Bricks, Buds, Cactus, Cake, Candles, Candy, Canvas, Carpet, Cave, Ceiling, Clouds, Colored Glass, Conifers, Curtain, Dark Clouds, Deco, Disco-Lamp, Fabric, Facade, Fireworks, Fireworks 2, Flakes, Floor Stones, Foam, Foil, Food, Frost, Fruits, Gems, Glass, Graphiti, Grass, Ground, Hair, Ice, Ivy, Leaf, Leaves, Leaves on Stones, Letters, Light, Locomotive, Marble, Metal, Moon, Mortar, Mosaic, Motors, Noodles, Old Bricks, Old Paper, Organ Pipes, Other, Planks, Plastic, Plush, Pool, Red Bark, Red Flowers, Rock, Roller Coaster, Roof, Root, Roses, Sand, Smoke, Snow, Snow Bark, Snow Bush, Snow Tree, Sparkles, Sponge Stone, Stained Glass, Stalks, Stars, Stone, Stones, Straw, Tapestry, Trees, UFO-Lamp, Violet Flowers, Wall, Water, Water Circles, Water Reflection, Water Ripples, Water Surface, Weave, White Flowers, Wood, Wood Grooves, Xmas Deco, and Yellow Flowers. The textures are suitable for all sorts of imagery uses, such as backgrounds for greeting cards, packaging, brochures, and Web pages. The size and variety of the library, along with its European flair, makes it an outstanding value at only $29.95, and there are discounts when two or more volumes are purchased simultaneously.
Contact: The Plugin Site, Harald Heim, Tucholskystr. 120, 90471 Nurnberg, Germany, 49 911 868516, http://www.thepluginsite.de, e-mail: info@thepluginsite.de.
Edge & Frame Galaxy (MAC/WIN)
Edge & Frame Galaxy is a collection of over 1600 edges and frames for use in many raster imaging applications such as Adobe Photoshop, Jasc Paint Shop Pro, Adobe Premiere, and others. The images are provided in a vast array of shapes, such as hearts, stars, flowers, circles, and rectangles; and include variations such as rippled, textured, and smooth. The images, provided as JPEGs can be used to mask or silhouette a photo to produce a professional, custom effect suitable for titles and credits, backgrounds, CD covers, labels, greeting cards, and even special video effects. Samples can be seen at http://thepluginsite.de/products/efgcd/index.htm. The images are provided with a set of tutorials which show how the files can be used with various software applications. $49.95
Contact: The Plugin Site, Harald Heim, Tucholskystr. 120, 90471 Nurnberg, Germany, 49 911 868516, http://www.thepluginsite.de, e-mail: info@thepluginsite.de.
File Transfer/Processing Reviews
Interarchy 5.0 (MAC)
Interarchy 5.0 provides several options for controlling the movement of files
up to a remote site, or down to the local computer. This includes the movement
of an entire Web site in either direction. It has been called "the most popular
software in its category, and has won numerous awards throughout its 10-year history,
including nominations for the 1999 and 2000 MacWorld Editors' Choice Award."
It is viewed as the premiere FTP client application.
The FTP Disk feature, introduced in version 5.0, enables the user to use a remote FTP location as if it were a mounted disk on the Macintosh desktop. It essentially transforms the Internet FTP protocol into a fully functioning file sharing protocol, requiring no new software on, nor modification of, the remote computer. Files which are placed on the FTP Disk volumes are automatically uploaded to the FTP site. This is useful for many applications, such as posting pictures on the Internet, or maintaining a Web site. FTP Disk also supports SSH for encrypted file transfers.
The program provides an option, File>Web>Internet Search, for locating files and information on the Internet. The user simply fills in the search field and selects "Search." Any of the hits can be downloaded by using the Listing>Download option.
Interarchy contains many advanced network utilities that allow the user to interrogate many aspects of network performance and activity. These include Whois/Finger, to display various kinds of information about an individual based on the input of their e-mail address; Trace Route, to determine the path that TCP/IP packets take between the user's computer and an entered IP address or domain name; Lookup Domain, to convert a domain name, such as Kodak.com, into IP numbers; and others. $45
Contact: Stairways Software Pty Ltd., 510 601-5244, http://www.interarchy.com, e-mail: admin@interarchy.com.
Utility Reviews
Norton SystemWorks for Macintosh 2.0 (MAC)
Norton SystemWorks for Macintosh 2.0 is a suite of essential system maintenance applications sharing a common user interface (for the Symantec applications). This Mac OS X compatible collection of programs includes Symantec's Norton Utilities for Macintosh 7.0, Symantec's Norton AntiVirus for Macintosh 8.0, Symantec's LiveUpdate, Dantz Retrospect Express, Aladdin Spring Cleaning, and Alsoft DiskWarrior Recovery Edition.
Every Macintosh user will want to have these tools to enable reliable virus protection, optimized system performance and problem resolution, efficient data back-up, complete software uninstall processing, and competent file recovery.
At the heart of the suite is Norton Utilities, the best-selling solution for Macintosh disk repair, disk optimization, and data recovery. Macintosh users have relied upon this application consistently for reviving systems that would not start, or have serious problems. The CD is bootable, meaning that the Norton Disk Doctor can be run even if the hard drive won't restart. The program is invaluable. $129.95
Contact: Symantec Corp., 20300 Stevens Creek Blvd., Cupertino, CA 95014, 408 253-9600, 800 441-7234, http://www.symantec.com, fax: 408 446-8152.
Fullshot version 7 for Windows Professional Version (MAC)
Fullshot version 7 for Windows Professional Version is a full-feature screen capture program that supports output in 18 file formats. Users can capture entire screens, individual windows, regions, titles and menus, freehand areas, pointer, button, command bar, auto-scroll document, interactive scroll, and timer-controlled sessions. The flexibility of the software makes it an excellent choice for those who produce documentation, training and marketing materials, and Web pages. Support is provided for multiple monitors, and captures can be printed, viewed, or e-mailed directly from the application.
A unique feature of the program is its Fullshot Image Database, which provides for storing captures in databases so that they can be easily located. The intelligent storage and retrieval of images is an essential component of any digital asset management system.
Of particular usefulness is the set of tools that enables the user to modify captures by adding a frame, resizing, flipping, rotating, cropping, erasing, merging two images, and changing colors. $79.99
Contact: INBIT Inc., 1275 Townsend Terrace, Sunnyvale, CA 94087, 408 730-9819, http://www.inbit.com, fax: 408 730-1756.
Miscellaneous News and Reviews
TechTracker Desktop for Windows (WIN )
TechTracker Desktop for Windows is a useful free computer management tool, which, like the original version for Macintosh, assists computer users with keeping their software at the most current versions. Using the application, PC users create a customized inventory of their software, and can automatically receive software updates, patches, and release announcements. The service is invaluable as users make use of an increased number of applications, and software publishers routinely release updates and revisions. The software runs in the background and can be downloaded at http://www.techtracker.com/products/desktop.
Contact: TechTracker.com, 55 SW Yamhill, Third Floor, Portland, OR 97204, 503 227-2571, http://www.techtracker.com, fax: 503 227-2573.
Digital Video Reviews
Flix 2.1 (MAC/WIN)
Flix 2.1 is the first application published to convert video into the SWF (Flash) media format. The popularity of Flash, which is installed in over 96% of browsers worldwide (March, 2001 Media Metrix study), makes it highly probable that a Flix movie will be compatible with virtually any user's computer.
Flix outputs movies in Flash 4 SWF format, which can be viewed using either the Flash 4 or 5 player. The movie size is limited to the maximum number of frames that the SWF format permits, which is 16,000. With a frame rate of 8 fps, the longest movie would be 33 minutes.
The conversion process is simple: The user selects an input file, names the output file, fills in descriptive fields (title, author, description), and makes the settings choices. The user can select one of the conversion presets, or make a custom set. He or she can also elect how the movie will play (play once and stop, loop, or unload, etc.). $129
Contact: Wildform, 1501 Main Street, Suite 202, Venice, CA 90291, 310 396-2025, http://www.wildform.com, e-mail: info@wildform.com, fax: 310 396-2065.
Productivity Reviews
Virtual PC 5.0 (MAC)
Virtual PC 5.0, like its predecessors (see http://www.printerport.com/kdp/issues/current.html#Virtual%20PC%20for%20Windows%20(WIN%20), provides a virtual PC environment running in a window on the Macintosh desktop. This new version runs in both Mac OS 9 and OS X, and provides a full software emulation of the standard Intel chip set and other standard PC components. Users can run their choice of operating systems (Windows XP, 2000, Me, 98, 95, NT, DOS, IBM OS/2, and Linux) running more than one in a series of virtual machines. Virtual PC is sold with various operating systems pre-installed and pre-configured, and users can add other operating systems as they wish either through purchase of Connectix OS Packs, or shrink-wrapped boxes from Microsoft and other OS providers. When multiple OSs are installed, the user can select which to start by selecting from the Virtual PC List, which shows the name of the OS along with a large icon showing its state, and a text description of the state it was saved in. The user has the option of retaining the virtual machine in its last saved state, and therefore returning to it with applications still running, and documents still open. With over one million users, VPC remains one of top ten best-selling Macintosh applications.
Macintosh users who use a virtual machine environment for software testing will appreciate the new "undoable drives" feature which provides the capability to undo completely any Windows session. The undo feature gives the user an easy way to remove any software, restore any configuration, or return the environment to a pre-virus state.
One of the biggest concerns of VPC users is the speed at which the virtual machine runs. Macintoshes with multiple processors (MP) can divide the processing cycles required to run a virtual machine. In such cases the screen updating load is handled by the second processor, providing increased responsiveness for both Virtual PC and the Windows environment. Advanced users can also control the performance of the sessions by carefully monitoring the utilization of memory, network activity, and version data about VPC Additions. $99 (DOS) to $249 (Windows 2000).
Contact: Connectix, 2655 Campus Dr., San Mateo, CA 94403, 800 950-5880, 415 571-5100, Internet: cards@connectix.com, http://www.connectix.com, faxback: 800 571-7558, fax: 415 571-5195.
TimeSlice (MAC/WIN)
TimeSlice is a time management utility that keeps track of tasks, which are composed of projects, categories and clients. The user creates tasks, which are maintained in a list. Each task has an associated hourly rate which is applied anytime that the user is working on the given task. When the user is begins to work on any aspect of a defined task, he or she opens the TimeSlice window and clicks on the Clock button. From here the user selects the task that is being undertaken, and enters an appropriate description in the Comments field. Time and expenses accumulate until the clock is stopped. In addition, any materials, or other kinds of expenses, can be added separately in the same window.
The Main TimeSlice window shows all of the tasks that have been entered. The user can display them in a variety or ways, including the display of the comments. Digital publishers, and others who charge for their time on an hourly basis will find this program indispensable. Mac version, $59.95, Windows, $39.95.
Contact: Casady & Greene, 22734 Portola Dr., Salinas, CA 93908-1119, 831 484-9228, 800 359-4920, http://www.casadyg.com, Internet: c&g@casadyg.com, fax: 831 484-9218.
Timbuktu Pro Version 6 (MAC/WIN)
Timbuktu Pro Version 6 is the latest version of this essential application that supports the remote control of any two computers, Macintosh and/or Windows. The connection is established over TCP/IP, AppleTalk (on pre Mac OS X computers) or through dial-up. The program provides the IP Locator, whereby Timbuktu users can register their e-mail address and their IP address on the Netopia Internet Locator Server, so that users who do not know the IP address of a target computer can locate it by inputting the e-mail address of the computer owner. Visitors are assigned privileges in advance that allow them to send or exchange files, control or look at the remote computer, and/or chat with the remote computer user. The IP addresses of contacted computers can be maintained in the Personal Address Book.
The Send option allows a user to send messages, files, and folders to a remote Timbuktu computer. Any number of files or folders can be added to a single send request. The files can be sent with an optional message.
The Exchange service enables the user to copy and move files and folders bidirectionally. This capability is extremely useful. It provides the user who works between two offices to have full access to the files on both local and remote computers at any time. In addition, it provides the traveller with the capability to connect to a home or office computer from anywhere.
The Control service provides complete control of any remote Timbuktu-enabled computer. The desktop (scrollable or locked-down) of the remote computer appears in a window on the local computer. More than one computer can be controlled simultaneously. Control includes cross-platform capability, that is, Mac-to-PC, or PC-to-Mac. Anything that can be done at the local computer can be done remotely. The Look option lets the user observe, but not interact.
The Chat function provides a window into which both computer users type their messages. The messages are archived in the Transcript window.
Other services include Knock, which sends a request to a remote computer to be notified when it is available; Intercom, which enables two users to communicate through the audio capabilities of the local and remote computers; and Invite, to extend an invitation to a remote user to access a service on a local computer.
We have used Timbuktu since it was first released and have found it to be an indispensable application, one which we recommend without reservation. $209.95 for the multiplatform twin pack, $169.95 for the Windows twin pack, and $189.95 for the Macintosh twin pack.
Contact: Netopia, Inc., 2470 Mariner Square Loop, Alameda, CA 94501, 510 814-5100, http://www.netopia.com, fax: 510 814-5020.
Communication Reviews
Eudora 5.1.1 for Mac OS X (MAC)
Eudora 5.1.1 for Mac OS X is the latest version of this venerable e-mail client. Eudora remains our e-mail management application of choice since it incorporates the functions that support the efficient creation, distribution, retrieval, and storage of massive numbers of messages, all neatly and semi-automatically sorted into their own mailboxes.
The Eudora user can create an unlimited number of mailboxes and have messages automatically filtered into them based on very flexible criteria, or merely file messages into the boxes manually at any time. Messages from user-defined sources, such as annoying advertisers, can be filtered directly into the trash.
The Stationery function allows the user to create boilerplate messages for responding to frequent types of messages, or for initiating certain transactions or other reoccurring events. Stationery can also be created for automatic responses, such as when the user is out-of-the-office. The built-in spellchecker makes it easy to spot typos, and avoid the embarrassment of misspelled words.
The Address Book makes it simple to manage thousands of addresses, and create distribution lists. When addressing messages the user need only type the beginning unique letters, and Eudora finishes the rest. In addition, while in a received message the user can add the sender's name to the Address Book by typing Command-K.
Eudora is available in a free, advertiser-sponsored form, and in a paid form, wherein no ads appear in the application itself (you'll still get the inevitable spam, however). $39.95
Contact: Qualcomm Inc., 6455 Lusk Blvd., San Diego, CA 92121-2779, 619 658-1292, 800 238-3672, Internet: info@qualcomm.com, http://www.qualcomm.com, fax: 619 658-1500.
Internet Reviews
How to Build a Website (ALL)
How to Build a Website is a VHS video featuring Sumi Das, co-host of TechTV's Fresh Gear, and Tom Merritt, Executive Producer of Call for Help and The Screen Savers Web sites. They present the basic process of building a site with images, video and sound. They produce a site in realtime. Topics include: defining site objectives, getting the site on the Web, naming the site, content basics, HTML primer, site design, use of images, and site enhancement with multimedia. Also featured is a video clip from Jacob Nielson, the renown Web usability expert. $24.99
Contact: Que Corporation, 11711 North College Ave., Carmel, IN 46032, http://www.quecorp.com.
Layout Master (MAC)
Layout Master is a Web page layout application with strengths in HTML and CSS. Although it does not have the features of programs such as Adobe GoLive and Macromedia Dreamweaver, the code that it produces is compatible. The program provides both WYSIWYG editing and previewing, and offers an easy-to-use interface. The basic process for creating a page consists of four steps: 1. Creating a new layout (which is accomplished by opening the program), 2. Creating one or more positioned elements (which are the components that compose a page), 3. Editing the background properties of the layout page, and 4. Previewing the layout in the browser of choice. $49.99
Contact: Western Civilisation Pty. Ltd. ACN 063 639 743, 5/121 Curlewis St. , Bondi NSW 2026Australia,
PhotoWebber 2 enables the designer to create unique pop-up menu designs, and connect animations and movies to a page without coding. Other features include: interactive preview within PhotoWebber; Photoshop Text as Text or Graphics; QuickTime, Flash, Shockwave, Applet support; left, right, or centered page alignment; built-in error checking (Back Seat Driver) of browser conflicts with suggested fixes; production of clean, readable HTML that can be edited in Dreamweaver and GoLive; incorporates existing Web site content; and more. $199, download; $249, CD.
Contact: Media Lab, Inc., 2501 Lanyon Drive, Longmont, CO 80503, 303 546-7929, http://www.medialab.com, fax: 303 485-9069.
Radio Userland enables a user to become a Weblog publisher in minutes, without the need to know or apply HTML, FTP, or Web page design. The user can publish text, links, photos, documents, and other forms of digital media, all from within their preferred browser. In addition to publishing, the user has access to the Weblogs of other users, and can subscribe to categories of news that they find of interest. $39.95
Contact: Userland Software, Inc., http://www.userland.com.
Contact: CMO/JTHREE Software LLC, 1 Market Plaza, 35th Fl., Spear St. Tower, San Francisco, CA 94104, 707 252-7340, http://www.zytex1.com, e-mail: stallcup@pacbell.com, fax: 240 282-4442.
Actions are stored in the Action Catalogue, in folders representing various categories, such as masking, color replacement, cloning, and brightness. Custom Actions can be shared with other TIFFany3 users, and can be easily added to an Action Catalogue by simply dragging in its icon.
Any number of Actions can be applied to multiple images through the use of the Document Manager, which can batch process as many documents as necessary. Users can also composite images by dragging and dropping them, building up an unlimited number of layers. The layers may contain different file types, resolutions, color spaces, and be of different sizes.
The program is sold in two versions. The differences between the professional and basic versions are enumerated on-line at http://www.caffeinesoft.com/products/tiffany/features.htm. Professional, $444, Basic, $222.
Contact: Caffeine Software, 2318 Dundee Dr., Santa Clara, CA 95051, 408 249-1290, http://www.caffeinesoft.com, e-mail: info@caffeinesoft.com, fax: 408 249-2989.
Paint Shop Pro is renown for its extensive complement of tools and capabilities, and is an outstanding value. It is regarded as "the world's most complete, most popular, most award-winning image editor in its class." $109
Contact: Jasc, POB 44997, 7905 Fuller Road, Eden Prairie, MN 55344-0997, 952 934-8888, 800 622-2793, http://www.jasc.com, e-mail: sales@jasc.com, fax: 952 930-9172.
In this book the author leads the reader through the intracacies of XML with the use of numerous examples. The examples follow a logical progression, with clear step-by-step instructions. Readers can learn all of the fundamentals of XML, including SSLT, SAX, and more.
Available for on-line ordering at
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D0789725045.
0789725045 495 pp. $29.99
Contact: Que Corporation, 11711 North College Ave., Carmel, IN 46032, http://www.quecorp.com.
Certainly among the most complete and useful books covering security issues related to protecting Internet sites and networks. The authors (anonymous hackers and security professionals) cover all potential threats, and provide strategies for all common computer platforms.
Available for on-line ordering at
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D0672318717.
0672318717 859 pp. $49.99
Contact: Sams, 201 West 103rd St., Indianapolis, IN 46290.
A complete reference to the use of Macromedia Flash software which provides instruction in creating and editing artwork, integrating sound and dynamic text, developing compelling animations, integrating Flash with Director, and much more.
The accompanying cross-platform CD includes demo versions of Flash, Dreamweaver, Director, and Fireworks as well as source code from the book.
Available for on-line ordering at
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D0789724448.
0789724448 605 pp. $39.99
Contact: Que Corporation, 11711 North College Ave., Carmel, IN 46032, http://www.quecorp.com.
A visual guide, with step-by-step instructions and illustrations, detailing the processes involved in enhancing and upgrading a PC. Topics include replacement of motherboards, CPUs, RAM; addition of scanners, printers, and modems; and installation of CD-RW and other peripherals.
Available for on-line ordering at
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D0789725002
0789725002 262 pp. $29.99
Contact: Que Corporation, 11711 North College Ave., Carmel, IN 46032, http://www.quecorp.com.
The author, an accomplished film and digital photographer, covers all aspects of the use of digital cameras and the files that they store. Attention is given to the process of composing compelling photographs, the effective use of light, the digital editing process, file organization and storage, and the use of the Web.
Available for on-line ordering at
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D0072127724.
0072127724 394 pp. $24.99
Contact: Osborne McGraw-Hill, 2600 Tenth St., Berkeley, CA 94710, 510 549-6600, fax: 510 549-6603.
The author tackles the problem of defining a theory of new media. He places new media within the context of old and existing media, with an emphasis on how cinema has influenced new media. It is among the most intelligent and thoughtful treatments of the subject.
The book's Web site is at http://www.manovich.net/LNM/lnm_frameset.html.
Available for on-line ordering at
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D0262133741.
0262133741 354 pp. $34.95
Contact: The MIT Press, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 5 Cambridge Center, Cambridge, MA 01242-1493, 800 356-0343, 617 253-2874, http://www.mitpress.mit.edu, e-mail: mitpress-orders@mit.edu.
The ultimate guide to the use of the TCP/IP protocol, how it works, how to apply it, how to configure it, and how to avoid problems. Complete information is provided for configuration on Widows, Linus, and UNIX.
Available for on-line ordering at
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D0672323516.
0672323516 1088 pp. $59.99
Contact: Sams, 201 West 103rd St., Indianapolis, IN 46290.
This book contains the text from seven bestselling O'Reilly books on a single CD-ROM. This library provides a complete collection of up-to-date information on all aspects of Web design, including HTML, CSS, site design, graphics, interactivity, and more. The CD contains unabridged versions of: HTML & XHTML: The Definitive Guide, 4th Edition; ActionScript: The Definitive Guide; Information Architecture for the Word Wide Web; Designing Web Audio: RealAudio, MP3, Flash, and Beatnik; Web Design in a Nutshell, 2nd Edition; Cascading Style Sheets: The Definitive Guide; and Web Design in a Nutshell, 2nd Edition.
The CD includes over 3000 pages of reference materials and tutorials that can be accessed using any Web browser. The content is fully searchable and cross-referenced with a separate index for each book and a master index for the collection. The cost of the individual titles would retail for $204.70.
Available for on-line ordering at
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D0596002718.
0596002718 640 pp. $79.95
Contact: O'Reilly & Associates, Inc., 103 Morris St., Suite A, Sebastopol, CA 95472, 800 998-9938, 707 829-0515, http://www.oreilly.com, e-mail: info@oreilly.com, fax: 707 829-0104.
This is an excellent book for those new to Macintosh OS X, with many illustrations accompanied by clear, concise text. The author provides much fundamental information, including the use of the mouse and basic finder operations. All aspects of the operating system are covered, including the application of OS capabilities for file sharing, movie creation, digital photo processing, music listening, Web serving, and more. Experienced Macintosh users will find a considerable amount of information related to the use of new OS functions, font management, customization features, and more.
Available for on-line ordering at
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D0201748665.
0201748665 799 pp. $29.99
Contact: Peachpit Press, 1249 8th St., Berkeley, CA 94710, 800 283-9444, http://www.peachpit.com, fax: 510 524-2221.
This book is written to provide potential authors with the fundamentals of the electronic book publishing process. It contains important information about the advantages and disadvantages of e-books, and the process of creating, producing, and publishing them. The author provides an historical perspective, and has assembled an expert panel of industry observers to give their views on the impact of e-book technology. The accompanying CD-ROM contains four electronic book versions of the text: PDF (Acrobat 5), Lit (Microsoft Reader format), Prc (for viewing on a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) devices, such as the Palm Pilot, or on the desktop using the MobiPocket Personal Publisher (www.mobipocket.com), and Reb (Rocket eBook or Gemstar).
Available for on-line ordering at
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D1852334355.
1852334355 222 pp. $34.95
Contact: Springer-Verlag New York, Inc., 333 Meadowlands Parkway, Secaucus, NJ 07094, 800-SPRINGER, http://www.springer-ny.com
A short but information-packed volume covering the digital movie making process using a FireWire computer connection. The author covers the entire production process, from the selection of equipment, to the final editing and post-production steps. Included on the cross-platform DVD (which can be viewed on a standard set-top DVD) are several movies produced using the equipment, processes and techniques shown in the book.
Available for on-line ordering at
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D0201741636.
0201741636 142 pp. $39.99
Contact: Peachpit Press, 1249 8th St., Berkeley, CA 94710, 800 283-9444, http://www.peachpit.com, fax: 510 524-2221.
This book covers the entire digital video production process, from the selection and proper use of the equipment to publishing the completed video on disc and the Internet. The author provides tips and techniques gleaned from his many years of multimedia production. Chapters are devoted to critical topics such as lighting, sound, editing, special effects, synchronization, titles, animation, transfer to tape, and more.
Available for on-line ordering at
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D0072194634.
0072194634 369 pp. $24.99
Contact: Osborne McGraw-Hill, 2600 Tenth St., Berkeley, CA 94710, 510 549-6600, fax: 510 549-6603.
An insider's perspective and opinion of the digital video production process using Apple's Final Cut Pro. The author, an accomplished professional digital video editor, leads the reader through the strange new world of DV production. He begins with the an explanation of the terminology and a description of the job of a video producer and editor. Other topics include: storytelling, editing action sequences, logging clips, basic and advanced editing techniques, music and sound tracks, and special effects. The book also includes interviews with renown film editors.
Available for on-line ordering at
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D0201734834.
0201734834 458 pp. $44.99
Contact: Peachpit Press, 1249 8th St., Berkeley, CA 94710, 800 283-9444, http://www.peachpit.com, fax: 510 524-2221.
A brief introduction to the digital video production process, with coverage of the essential elements of planning and shooting video, editing clips, applying a soundtrack, and completing a production.
Available for on-line ordering at
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D0201758482.
0201758482 178 pp. $19.99
Contact: Peachpit Press, 1249 8th St., Berkeley, CA 94710, 800 283-9444, http://www.peachpit.com, fax: 510 524-2221.
A concise yet comprehensive coverage of the Adobe Portable Document Format (PDF) and its applications in the printing production process. The book has been translated from German by Seybold Publications' Executive Editor, George Alexander. The author provides numerous illustrations to show the application of PDF in data exchange, proofing, preflighting, editing, imposition, color separation, trapping, and printing. Readers benefit from the author's knowledge of the intracacies of the PDF production process, with specific instructions on constructing PDF files that are compliant with all printing requirements. Although written as an introduction for the novice, the book has technical details that will be of value even to experienced PDF users.
Available for on-line ordering at
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D392022681X.
392022681X 242 pp. $35
Contact: Seybold Publications, 428 East Baltimore Avenue, P.O. Box 644, Media, PA 19063, 800 325-3830, (610) 565-6864, http://www.seyboldreports.com, fax: 610 565-1858.
The Kleper Report on Digital Publishing is (c)opyright 2002,
Graphic Dimensions, Pittsford, NY, all
PhotoWebber 2 (MAC/WIN)
PhotoWebber 2 is a unique application that automatically converts Photoshop designs into instant Web pages. Users do not need skills in coding, HTML or Javascript programming. The program intelligently senses all Photoshop layer positions and transparency, automatically creates rollover buttons and pop-up menus, converts solid color layers to Web-page background color or to cell background color, and allows users to drag-and-drop frame dividers at any time. It is of particular usefulness for designers and other creative professionals who design prototype Web sites using Photoshop as their primarily design tool. A single page can be converted and ready for display on the Web in as little as thirty seconds.
Radio Userland (MAC/WIN)
Radio Userland is a unique publishing tool that allows the user to create and maintain a Weblog. A Weblog is a form of personal publishing wherein the writer logs daily-to-occasional log entries regarding almost any topic. The content may be narrowly focused on a particular subject, may be listings of interesting links, or may be a general non-specific discussion of almost anything.
Digital Imaging Reviews
Zytex.1 (MAC)
Zytex.1 is productivity software that works with the Adobe Photoshop Actions palette to automate the application of sophisticated three-dimensional texture effects. The software simplifies the introduction of twenty effects that users can then adjust interactively from within Photoshop. Users can convert their designs into highly impressive illustrations that, for example, suggest that the artwork has been painted onto a cinderblock wall, or refracted through water drops. The software provides closely meshed, custom tiles and distortion maps that are applied using pre-defined actions. The effects, which can be applied in minutes, would ordinarily take hours to compose and apply. The texture library includes brick (half), brick (staggered), brick (stacked), drops, puddles, puzzle, bulkhead, tile (hexagonal), tile (octagonal), tile (square), cinder block, corrugated metal, flooring, limestone, overhead door, plank siding, shake siding, rivets, stone wall, and stucco. Potential buyers will be impressed with the on-line gallery located at http://www.zytex1.com/gallery.html. $89
TIFFany3 (MAC)
TIFFany3 for Mac OS X is a digital imaging application that reduces the arsenal of painting and image manipulations to one main tool: the brush. Along with a small palette of other tools, the brush is used to apply any of more than 300 preconfigured Actions. The user can create new Actions and link a series of Actions that can be processed as a batch. Actions can be linked together using a visual workflow scheme, and saved for reuse. The process is simple in concept, but extremely powerful in its application, flexibility, and ultimate results.
Paint Shop Pro 7 (WIN )
Paint Shop Pro 7 is the tenth anniversary edition, and includes $100 worth of free tools and resources. The package includes the namesake application with a feature-rich set of powerful, yet easy-to-use tools for image editing and enhancement; Jasc Media Center Plus 3.1 ($39 value), a digital asset management system for organizing photos and 50 different file formats (including MP3, MPEG and AVI files); Jasc Animation Shop 3.04 ($39 value) for creating Web and presentation graphics; special effects filters from Alien Skin Eye Candy, Virtual Painter, and Flaming Pear Essentials; a product tour; hands-on tutorials; and more.
Book Reviews
XML by Example, Second Edition
Marchal, Benoit
Maximum Security, Third Edition
Anonymous
Using Macromedia Flash 5, Special Edition
Plant, Darrel; Robert Cleveland
How to Expand & Upgrade PCs
Gralla, Preston
How to Do Everything with Your Digital Camera
Johnson, Dave
Language of New Media, The
Manovich, Lev
TCP/IP Unleased, Third Edition
Siyan, Karanjit; Tim Parker
Web Design CD Bookshelf, The
O'Reilly & Associates
Little Mac OS X Book, The
Williams, Robin
Electronic Books and ePublishing: A Practical Guide for Authors
Henke, Harold
Firewire Filmmaking
Smith, Scott
How to Do Everything with Digital Video
Jones, Frederic H.
Editing Techniques with Final Cut Pro
Wohl, Michael
Little Digital Video Book, The
Rubin, Michael
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