Tech Time: Crackberry Blacks Out

Last Tuesday, tens of thousands of Blackberry users across the island and the region were without internet service due to a system wide outage from RIM (Research In Motion). This was the second such outage in a week. In a statement, RIM attributed the outage to the recent Messenger upgrade following preliminary investigations. In addition to moving ‘swiftly’ to restore full services, RIM introduced an update.

Many of us saw the announcements in mainstream media, received Messenger Broadcasts and then an official message from our service providers (in that order). Avid Tech Time listeners waited to install the update to prevent the possibility of crashes that non-listeners experienced when they rushed to upgrade BBM with cracked software. You were smart! But, now it’s time to upgrade.

Step 1: Backup Your Phone

I can’t stress this enough. Using the provided, free Blackberry Desktop Manager make a full backup copy of the data on your phone, even if you have used BBM to back up your contacts. This is your best way defence against data loss.

Step 2: Check Your Settings

Click on the ‘Options’ Icon (usually a wrench), click ‘About’ and then ensure your Blackberry is using OS v. 4.5 or higher.

Step 3: Download Messenger

In your BB browser, visit: www.blackberry.com/blackberrymessenger and select download. The newest version will download directly to your phone. You may be required to restart your phone, after which you are ready to go.

Optionally, you can download Messenger and thousands of other really cool apps from the Blackberry App Store. In your browser visit: www.appworld.blackberry.com

Visit the official Blackberry site for more information on what Messenger can do: http://na.blackberry.com/eng/devices/features/im/blackberry_messenger.jsp

Another great upgrade to consider from your Blackberry is the Bolt Browser. Bolt loads pages faster than the default Blackberry browser, can stream videos and displays pages as desktop browsers would. This is significant because it makes it easier to go shopping or banking online using your phone. I will install on my phone this week and give a full report in the coming weeks.

Special thanks to all the Tech Time consultants that contribute to my learning experience:

• Dale Stephenson
• Jamie Ranston
• Hamilton Brown
• Noel Andrew Bennett
• Serchen Morris
• Troy Cocking
• Jerome Hamilton

For 2010 we’ll explore new frontiers like Home 3D, Windows 7, Internet Banking, project Natal, Backing up to the Cloud and so much more. Thank you for taking time to explore tech with me, our journey continues.

Interface with us:

Online: trivialonfame.blogspot.com

On email: famefm@rjrgroup.com

On SMS: 876-878-FAME (18768783263)

Tech Time: Video Conferencing

Internet video conferencing allows family and friends (business associates too) to see and hear each other in real time; to effectively have a conversation with someone as if there were sitting in the room beside you. To make it work, each ‘caller’ needs to have a PC/Mac with a webcam, microphone and speakers (or headset) in addition to internet connectivity and the right software to pull it all together.

There are several software options that are rich in features, light reliable and best of all free! Some of the best internet chat options are bundled with instant messenger programmes such as Live Messenger (formerly MSN Messenger), Yahoo! Messenger with Chat, AIM and my new favourite Google Chat. Each have built in video conferencing features, but dedicated video conference software by and large offers better performance.

In that category, Skype is king. Skype offers good video and audio quality on a stable platform with easy to use features and navigation. Another big bonus, you can run Skype from a jump drive. But, several competitors are giving Skype a challenge including VZO Chat (used by TVJ), SightSpeed, iChat and ooVoo which allows for multiple participants (at a cost).

In choosing the option that is best for you and your family, consider these common features:

· Voice chat, texting and instant messenger options

· PC to PC calling

· PC to phone calling

· Chat room access and moderation

· Multiple participants

· File transfer, sharing and collaboration

Once you have chosen the software that is best for you, use and tradition phone to call your friends and family to walk them through the set up; then enjoy one big Christmas dinner with real time online video chats.

Interface with us:

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On email: famefm@rjrgroup.com

On SMS: 876-878-FAME (18768783263)

Tech Time: Top 10 Gadgets for Christmas

If you will be shopping for a gadget lover in your life this Christmas, here are the top 10 items for your shopping list (in no particular order):

Number 1: HDTV

HDTV’s have become so common their prices have dropped significantly making them more affordable even for larger screens. Imagine 50” in your living room! Choose from plasma, LCD or my new personal favourite LED-Lit options for your perfect viewing experience. See HDTV Time

Number 2: Blu-ray Disc Player

Blu-ray offers phenomenal picture and sound quality. Most players connect directly to internet to offer bonus content and are backwards compatible, meaning they will play your old DVD’s too.

Number 3: Laptop, netbook or touch screen desktop

Lifestyle technology is all about choice, choose the model that’s best for you. Laptops are more powerful with an impressive set of features, but more expensive than netbooks that are ultra portable. Desktops like the HP TouchSmart series marrying computing power with a home theatre experience and tactile interface that’s human friendly. See Back To School

Number 4: Smart Phone

Jamaica has become Blackberry country thanks to each of the three major telecoms offering Blackberry deals. If you want to stand out from the crowd, and be left off BBM, check out the Nokia E71 or Apple iPhone also available locally. See Blackberry vs. iPhone

Number 5: Camera with HD video

Capturing memories has never been easier. Many high end point and shoot cameras offer great HD video and then there are dedicated video recorders like the ultra hot, Flip HD. You can have family videos up on YouTube in no time. See Is It a Phone or a Camera

Number 6: WiFi Radio

The evolution of radio continues with this device. Listen to radio from all over the world using the internet, no computer or Apple TV required. On the surface, it looks like a traditional radio. Instead of local FM, this radio streams music from the internet (or satellite radio over the internet).

Number 7: Game console

Go portable or desktop, video games are for everybody. Strategy, first person, sports, fitness, brain busters ... there is a category of gaming to appeal to everyone. The big players Nintendo, Microsoft and Sony, have got you covered. See Personal Gaming

Number 8: eReader

There is nothing like curling up with a good book, but these days, when you are on the go, grab your eReader and hit the pavement with your entire library. No paper, no limits. Check out the Amazon Kindle or wait for the Barnes&Noble Nook. See Nook vs. Kindle

Number 9: GPS Navigation Device

Gather some friends, take a GPS challenge and explore the country side. Discover Jamaica! I know if sounds like a JTB ad, but seriously, we live in paradise, so go enjoy it. See GPS Beats Asking for Directions

Number 10: MP3 Player

Music is the beat of a nation. (I promise that was the last overused cliché). Having your own personal sound system is not a new concept but Apple’s iPod has perfected it. With an easy to use navigation, oodles of storage and tonnes of accessories to enhance the experience, the iPod is the must have device for Christmas. See iPod vs. Zune

iPod v. Zune

With the official advent of the holiday shopping season, we continue to look at gadgets to make the yuletide season fun. The Apple iPod Classic vs Microsoft Zune 80 is the epic battle that pre-dates the Nook vs Kindle battle and therefore worth exploring.

The Apple iPod launched in 2001 and revolutionised the way we listened to music on a scale not seen since the introduction of the Sony Walkman. Finally, it was possible to transport your entire music library (or large portions of it) with you anywhere and everywhere. Sure, there were some limitations in format and access, but essentially, the MP3 player became the preferred portable entertainment devise.

As the Apple iPod (and its various incarnations) dominated the market, Microsoft made a play (no pun intended) for market share with the first generation Zune. A hit, it was not. With slick marketing and Microsoft backing, the heveyier less stylish Zune did find an audience, but the new Zune 80 has been redesigned for wider appeal. So, let’s break them down.

The Apple iPod Classic is a durable devise with sleek styling, long battery life and lots of support features like games, calendar, timers, contacts and a basic EQ to keep owners happy.

The Microsoft Zune has a bigger screen, built in Wi-Fi and FM radio. But the Zune pays for these features with a shorter battery life and bigger bulk.

Both players have restrictions on music format and access. The iPod/iTunes combo gives owners access to a wide library of songs, TV shows, movies, audio books and podcasts through a large relatively easy to navigate store. The Zune marketplace also offers access to songs, TV shows and movies, but access to audio books and podcasts are not supported.

One big drawback for me is the absence of cross compatibility; the Zune is not compatible on Mac systems, though the iPod works with both Windows and Mac.

With a longer product cycle, he iPod boasts a wider range of accessories, but Zune accessories will eventually catch up. Zune may also introduce options to its 80 GB player for persons interested in MP3 but not the US$250 price tag much as iPod users have the Mini, Nano and other cheaper options to the iPod Classic also priced at US$250.

Either player is an excellent choice, but for my money, the iPod still takes the lead.

Tech Time: Kindle vs Nook

When last have you bought a CD? I’ll bet it has been a while since you have purchased a book too. Technology has revolutionised everything, including the traditional book.

Welcome to the age of the e-reader, delivering 1,000’s of books into the palm of your hand. There are several well known dedicated e-reader devices, such as the Amazon Kindle and the Barnes & Noble Nook. But increasingly people are turning to existing devices such as phones, table PC’s or handheld game consoles for ‘books’.

Regardless of the device you use, e-readers are extremely portable, generally have long battery lives and have the ability to put an entire library at your finger tips.

The Amazon Kindle was introduced to the market two years ago. It is about the size, weight and dimension of a traditional paperback book with a crisp ‘electronic ink’ display. Books can be downloaded anywhere in the world thanks to built in 3G roaming as provided by Sprint. You can browse for, buy and be reading material in 30 seconds from the Amazon store which features 100,000’s of books, magazine and newspaper titles.

Feel free to bookmark sections, make comments or look up words with the built in dictionary, but don’t expect to be able to download books over the internet as there is no wifi immediately available. So for us here in Jamaica, the other options include transfer from PC or download direct to iPhone.

The Barnes and Noble Nook is being touted as a ‘Kindle Killer’; expected to ship early next year, the Nook has ‘one-upped’ the Kindle on some features. Like the Kindle, you can browse for and purchase through a worldwide 3G network, in the Nook’s case provided by AT&T. In addition to the ‘electronic ink’ screen, the Nook features a colour touch LCD display that doubles as a keyboard on the lower third of the device.

For roughly the same price of US$250, the Nook offers built-in free wifi; unfortunately, the wifi will only work in Barnes & Nobel stores. Like the Kindle, the Nook allows you to bookmark, highlight or annotate key sections for a book, but unlike the Kindle, Nook allows you to ‘share’ a book with your friend with a compatible e-reader for up to 14 days.

Both devices are able to hold roughly 1,500 titles and play MP3s, but Nook has an expansion slot to increase the built-in 2GB with a mini-SD card of up to 16GB. Nook doesn’t however have the cool, experimental text to speech feature which assists with word pronunciation. The Nook is one ounce heavier (I am told) and has a shorter battery life of about 10 days. It also has no built-in internet browser unlike its chief rival, but does have native PDF.

If Nook starts to make an impact in the e-reader market, Amazon is likely to make additional improvements in its now third generation Kindle. But all of this will be moot, if the highly speculated Apple Table hits the market next year. These are indeed interesting times.

Interface with us:

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Tech Time: Internet On The Go

It’s great to have browser options, but being able to use a browser anywhere you want is the real trick to internet power. When we are on the go, or if we live in relatively remote locations, getting internet access can be a challenge, without a USB Modem.

Also sometimes referred to as data cards or mobile modems, the USB modem offers wireless internet connectivity. It’s not a new concept, PC Cards offered wireless internet via a cellular connection, but thanks to technology blazing speed and easy access is now par for the course.

USB modems call on GPRS (General Pocket Radio Service) and EDGE (Enhanced Data rates for GSM Evolution) to download data at speeds of up to 8 MBps. This is comparable to some broadband internet services though in reality, your speed will likely be closer to 2 MBps, still very good.

The quality of the signal and the speed are largely dependent on your location. Being outdoors and stationery are not requirements, but both factors help.

Each USB Modem and service provider is different and novices won’t be able to transfer service from one telecom to another. To simplify matters (or make more money) some laptop manufactures are including built in data cards tied to a particular service provider.

In Jamaica, all three telecoms offer data cards either as a standalone or package deal. A unlimited data plan is highly recommend for heavy users to avoid data caps and overage fees. Device fees start at just under $3,000.00 usually with a data plan. Roaming rates are generally separate.

Of the local options, I am yet to see added features like built in data storage, dual wifi or built in GPS, but I don’t miss any of them. All local options do also offer SMS messaging and SIM based phone books which has some cool/practical business applications.

Tech Time: Browser Wars

Browsers have come a long way. From the original WorldWideWeb, to the competition between Netscape and IE (Internet Explorer) to the wide range of browser options available today, it’ been a fascinating journey.

Consumers have, more choice and better features with today’s browser. But which is the right browser for you, and what issues should you be mindful of? Let us breakdown the most popular options.

If you have a PC, it likely came loaded with Microsoft Internet Explorer. IE has the largest share of the browser market. As a result, most websites are optimised for IE. With the latest version IE comes tabbed browsing, password management, bookmarking, pop up blocking and other cool features. But, it doesn’t have a spell check and has been known to have security issues.

IE’s chief rival is Mozilla Firefox. Firefox is open source. Firefox is light and fast with all the traditional browser features like tabbed browsing, spell check and pop up blocking and improved security options which make it a good alternative to IE.

The newest kid on the block is Google’s Chrome. Like Firefox (with whom Google has developed a strategic alliance), Chrome is light, clean and easy to navigate. In addition to the tabbed browsing, password management, book marking and other features, Google Chrome offers download management and on board spell checking.

Mac users may scoff any browser but Apple’s Safari. Safari works on both PC and Mac, but Safafi was uniquely built for Macintosh users with a full range of features.

Finally, there is Opera. Though Opera has the smallest share of the PC/Mac browser market, Opera should not be discounted. The browser has been pre-installed on an estimated 40 million mobile handsets and only commercial web browser for Wii and Nintendo DS systems. It is fast, has speech to text recognition and understands mouse gestures.

IE, Chrome, Firefox, Safari and Opera are all free to download, so try them all and see which one works best for you.



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Next on Tech Time ... Internet Banking

Tech Time: GPS Beats Asking for Directions

We now have access to turn by turn directions on Jamaica’s streets. So, whether you are going on a field trip across the island or looking for the nearest ATM, GPS (Global Positioning System) navigation will save time and increase your cool coefficient.

In practical terms, you get a little device with a touch screen, affix it your vehicle with a suction cup and enter your destination BEFORE you drive off. And voila! The screen shows a map with your route and a pleasant voice tells you exactly where to go from there.

Taking it a step further, you can search for restaurants, schools, gas stations, hospitals or other locations based on the proximity to where you stand. Get reviews, opening hours and other information while sitting in your car with just the touch of a button.

It works thanks to the efforts of The Mona Geoinformatics Institute. The institute mapped the island and all its major roadways, and by making the maps available to the Jamaica Automobile Association (JAA) the public now has access through Garmin devices. The Garmin GPS Units start at about $26,000 with the map preloaded. JAA can also load the map to your own Garmin device or appropriate mobile phone. There is no monthly subscription charge.

JAA Sales Manager Oliver Sherman noted that map is continuously updated to accommodate for new roads and traffic changes. But updates cost approximately US$30 three months after the initial purchase. The service has garnered significant interest from tourism service providers, companies and embassies with expatriates, real estate investors, delivery service providers and taxi drivers, in addition to gadget lovers.

“The units have a lot of features,” Sherman added. Enhanced features include local points of interest, vehicle tracking (read more about this on the blog), route plotting based on shortest time versus shortest route settings, fuel usage monitoring and management. Of course, such features have great practical applications. But they can be fun too. A group of friends can pick a location (by points of interest or even by geographical coordinates) and challenge each other to see who can reach to the destination fastest or for less money.

Take the challenge overseas with downloadable maps at Garmin.com. North America, Europe and other territories are represented. Additional maps cost between US$10 and US$100 depending on the territory. So there is no need to rent an expensive car with onboard navigation, just use the same unit purchased in Jamaica.

But does it really work? Yes. I had some issues with the new MoBay road and a bridge in Bog Walk, but generally, I was impressed with the routings. When I intentionally diverted from the suggested routes, the device figured out new routes immediately. Then I tested the system by putting in multiple locations and again, I was impressed. I maneuvered the maze that is downtown Kingston with ease. I shall never be lost again. Finally, when I got bored of the vehicle on the screen and the voice, I downloaded new ones, keeping things fresh.

Tech Time: BlackBerry Messenger 5.0 Upgrade

Ok, ok. I get it. The new BlackBerry Messenger 5.0 is new and it's cool. Those who couldn't wait, downloaded and installed the leaked version and some of you ran into a world of problems. The two most common complaints were handset 'freezing' or contact lists disappearing. The good news is, you can reinstall your BB OS (that's BlackBerry Operating System) to unfreeze your phone and access the original BB Messenger. The bad news is, your contacts are still lost is some cyberspace vacuum.

For those that took my advice and waited, you feel left out and are eager to check out the new features offered by BB Messenger 5.0. If you upgrade to ver 5.0, you can assign avatars to your contacts. This visual representation is VERY helpful for those contacts who force us to guess their screen name everyday. You can "broadcast" messages (aka spam your friends) and you can collaborate in new and better ways by sending images, voice notes, files, tasks and calendar appointments. For me, the most impressive feature is adding new friends through bar code scanning. When you are up close and personal with your friends, you can 'scan' the bar code from their BB and add them directly to your messenger; no email addresses or PIN codes required.

So, despite the risks, you want to upgrade? Can't blame you. I did. So let's follow the steps I took to successfully install the app.

FIRST: Make a backup copy of the data on your BB device. Download and install the BlackBerry Desktop Manager and create a full backup of all application data on your phone (Mac users can download the software from the BlackBerry website because it is not included in the package CD). If anything goes wrong, at least you can restore your phone to where it was at this point.

You will lose all your current conversations, so if you have important information in those Messenger windows, make a note now.

BB Messenger 5.0 only works on handsets operating OS ver 4.5 or higher. So our next step is to ensure your phone can handle, Messenger 5.0. Go to 'options', then 'about'. If the OS version is less than 4.5, pause here. I have a different set of instructions for you. If you see v4.5 or higher, let's move on together.

In your device browser, enter "http://appworld.blackberry.com". (Of course, there are other ways, but this was has some additional benefits, so take a leap of faith with me.) Download and install the BB App World Application. Then, from within BB App World, select the new BB Messenger. I encourage you to download and install from App World for two reasons. 1. You KNOW you are getting the authorised Messenger 5.0 application, not a leaked, possibly corrupted copy. And 2. You can see all the other cool free apps available for your phone.

After the installation, you will need to reboot. But your Messenger should work seamlessly. Go have fun!

If your OS is below version 4.5, you will need to upgrade BEFORE attempting to install Messenger 5.0. You will need a PC/Mac with BlackBerry Desktop Messenger. Goggle "Blackberry NAME OF SERVICE PROVIDER software download" (sorry I can't give you the direct link). The link will take you to the page to receive the official OS update. You will have to provide your contact information and agree to their terms and conditions before the download commences.

Once the download is complete, double click to install, open BlackBerry Desktop Manager and update your handset.

Verify the upgrade and complete the steps above to join your friend on BB IM 5.0. I maintain that this upgrade is not for the faint of heart, impatient or those new the BB experience. If you think its too much for you to do, visit:

Francis Express Wireless

francisexpresswireless@hotmail.com

876.908.4484

Market Place, Constant Spring Road, Kingston 10

Tech Time: Viral Infections of a Digital Nature

Of course, the major disadvantage of hoax email is the likelihood of computer virus infection. Recently, people have used the term computer virus to refer to a wide spectrum of malware such as adware, spyware, worms and Trojan horses, but, by definition, a virus must execute code and write to memory.

Let’s leave the technical stuff behind for a moment and focus on how viruses and other malware affect our PC’s. Your PC may run slowly, programmes may start on their own or not work properly, crash frequently, your task manager or command prompt may fail to load, critical files may mysteriously disappear and whole range of other symptoms may affect your machine.

It’s hard to make a comprehensive list of virus symptoms, because it’s impossible to make a comprehensive list of viruses and other malware. New viruses are introduced every day. In addition to a host of new virus specifically designed to ruin your day, you may be infected by adware or botnets which are even harder to detect.

These days, the most common way to ‘catch’ a virus is through email. When we click on attachments with weird extensions, executable files, documents with embedded macros and files we don’t know, we make ourselves susceptible to infection. You can also get infected by introducing infected media into our computers through external USB drives, CD/DVD’s, SD cards and floppy discs. (C’mon, I know you remember floppy discs!)

Being vigilant is the best way to protect yourself from infection. But, since we are human and not perfect, good antivirus software is also HIGHLY recommended. There are several free and paid antivirus software programmes on the market.

Free programmes include my personal favourite, AVG, Avira AntiVir, Alwil Avast and Microsoft Security Essentials (available only in BETA). There are others. Norton Antivirus, McAfee, Panda and Kaspersky are the more popular paid antivirus software programmes.

Such programmes use a variety of different methods to detect and eradicate viruses including signature based detection, malicious activity detection, file analysis and file emulation. The combination of all four techniques increases the likelihood that it will detect new viruses, but antivirus protection is not foolproof. And to make matters worse, antivirus software can sometimes slow your machine down to a crawl.

Right now, right this very minute, back up your data and then install a good antivirus software application unless you are already infected. Do not install an antivirus programme if you are already infected. It’s a preventative, not a curative measure. If my advice has come too late, you many need to do a system restore from a date before you were infected, or worse, reinstall your OS and supporting software. But this is definitely the time to seek professional help. Novices should not be rebooting and trying other quick fixes, as this may make the problem elevate from mild annoyance to certified tragedy.



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On SMS: 876-878-FAME (18768783263)

Next on Tech Time ... GPS Navigation

Tech Time: Email Hoaxes

Each day we are bombarded by countless email messages trying to get us to forward messages, act on virus alerts, participate in pointless petitions or worse, give up critical private information. Email hoaxes are at best annoying and at worse dangerous.

In principle, email hoaxes are not new. Many of the most popular hoaxes are in fact just electronic versions of hoaxes which have been making the rounds for decades. What makes them irritating however, is their direct access to us. Your email inbox is littered with false special offers, fictitious warnings and promises of big money. Your mother said (and she was right), if it is too good to be true, it probably is. C'mon, think about it. Why would Bill Gates really want to partner with Walt Disney just to give you money?

According to BankRate.com, the nine most popular hoaxes include:

• Neiman Marcus's expensive cookie recipe
• Forwarded e-mail for money or donations
• Nigerian scam letter
• Work at home
• You won! And you didn't even enter!
• You'll receive $5,000 for sending $25
• Tricking the traffic court
• Tax or long-distance charges on e-mail
• Clinton got rid of IRS -- no more taxes

In Jamaica, we've had a few too. Do you remember the pornographic pictures of the RBTT Bank Teller? She never existed. Well, not as a teller working at a bank in Kingston at least.

So, what should you do if you receive an email that looks suspicious to you? If in doubt, check it out.

Free Giveaways for Forwarding Messages: Before you greedily click that forward button, think about it. Will the person you are sending the email to be annoyed when they open it? Are you likely to be spreading false information? Worst of all, are you wasting time? If your answer is yes to any (or all three) questions, click delete instead.

Something for Almost Nothing: This email promises to provide BIG MONEY if only you send a small transaction fee; most popularly associated with Nigerians or sweepstakes, all you are likely to get is an empty wallet. A slight variation, is the email from a travelling friend who lost their wallet and just needs a little money to get back home. Trust me, if they are lost, they will appreciate a call.

Bogus Virus Alerts: The subject reads, "WORST VIRUS EVER!". That may be so, and you'll be able to prove it with a simple search of a reputable anti-virus software site. The email may contain 'helpful' instructions on how to remove the virus which may end up harming, rather than helping your system.

False Appeals for Sick Children: This is the greatest proof that the virtual world cannot replace the real world. Any legitimate appeal is going to have a phone number, website or other way to make direct contact with the person or organization making the appeal. Be wary of such emails, but don't be callous.

Pointless Petitions: There are lots of sneaking ways that scammers try to get and verify our email address and other related information. Enter, the pointless petition. You may feel motivated to add your name to the ever growing list of cause junkies, but in many cases, all you are doing is giving up your identity to a criminal. If you are really interested in supporting the cause, seek out their website and sign the online petition.

Fictional Product Warnings: KFC is not generically engineering beak-less chickens and deodorant doesn't cause cancer (as far as I know). Please, let's move on.

Phishing for Information: This email has a great disguise. It looks like an official email from your bank or other 'noble' institution asking you to verify your account details. Before you know it, your identity is stolen and your life is in shambles. Banks and other financial institutions are NEVER going to ask you for your personal information via email. Look closely too at links in emails, make sure the address is exactly correct and not just close to the address of the institution the email claims to the representing.

You Think You See Me: Scariest of all is when you get any one of the emails mentioned above from a trusted friend. Trust your friend, not their email. Their system or account may be hacked; with someone else in control, you need to be careful. If it looks odd, pick up the phone and warn your friend, they'll appreciate the heads up.

Tech Target (website to visit): www.PlayJamaica.com
Play Jamaica is the first online gaming site of its kind, conceptualized, built and maintained for Jamaicans by Jamaicans. The site is family oriented so everyone can play free flash games or tournament games and win prizes. Tournaments start on Monday morning and end on Saturday night with the gamer posting the highest score winning cool prizes (and of course bragging rights).

Sticking to the slogan, 'Simple Games ... Real Winners', the site offers Pakman (my personal favourite), Pong, Space Invaders and Snakes, with more games being added continuously. Right now, all games are free, later gamers will be able to purchase game vouchers right across the island.







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Next on Tech Time ...

Tech Time: Job Hunting with Social Networking

The Internet and social networking services like Facebook can make it easier to find a job (or a date). But it can just as easily make opportunities disappear if not managed properly.

The Do's and Don'ts When Job Hunting
Do post a profile on Linked In, its "the new resume". This social networking site is well targeted to business professionals looking for staff, partners and project leaders. There are no smileys or random albums, just a clean interface designed to get you noticed by the business establishment.

Do Google yourself and see what postings are relevant to you. Many employers now customarily search the Internet as part of their due diligence process when hiring staff. Beat them to the punch, see what is out there about you and if there are negative postings make a note to address them in the interview.

Do tweak you privacy settings on Facebook, MySpace and similar networking site to limit postings to your friends. Be aware that potential and current employers may already have been added as a friend and can see everything you put up online.

Don't post derogatory comments, revealing photos, foul language or lewd jokes; even with the most advanced privacy settings you cannot truly control the information once it is placed in cyberspace.

Don't reveal privileged or confidential information about your work, it speaks badly to your character and may leave you open to dismissal, sanctions or litigation.

Don't assume that you have complete control of your online identity, others may post pictures, comments, video or other information about you without your knowledge or permission. So be vigilant in Googling yourself on a periodic basis.

There is no denying that social networking sites like Facebook have revolutionised the way we communicate. While caught up in the moment at our PC in our private homes and offices, we sometimes forget that we are actually in a public space. Our postings in the virtual world have consequences in the real world, keep that in mind as you each time you click 'share'.

Tech Time Bonus
BlackBerry Messenger 5.0 has been leaked and is available for download all over the web. The LEAKED Messenger application looks and acts completely differently than its predassor.

The new version of the BB only instant messenger application displays avatars for contacts and links them to the device address book, allows for different chat styles (standard, bubbles or stripes) and features mire smileys. Advanced productivity highlights include the ability to set conversation subjects, backup/restore contacts to a media card and improved send options.

But BB Messenger 5 raises the cool coefficient with a novel bar code scanning/sharing option that allows devices to add themselves to each other's contact list by scanning a uniquely generated bar code from the screen. The software only works with BlackBerry phones using OS 4.5.0.131 or higher.

Progress comes at a price however; this new application has not been fully tested and doesn't come with any guarantees. So BEFORE installing, backup ALL device data. Several users have reported a loss of all contacts, system freezes and/or other problematic occurrences after installation.



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Next on Tech Time ... Email Hoaxes

Tech Time: Document Collaboration

A group of us are working on a document; it happens at school, work or church. We all use Microsoft Word, turn on the track changes option and away we go. Microsoft Word offers rich features that let us monitor different versions, identify specific changers by specific users, add comments or footnotes and so much more.

But the big drawback is that most of us email the documents around to each other, creating multiple copies and needless delays. Online document collaborations allow us to all that (and more) in real time, from virtually anywhere and maintain a single copy of the document with access to all.

Some advantages:
· Accessibility: Collaborators don’t all need to have the same software, just internet access
· Functionality: Many online collaboration programmes have many of the same rich features as Word

Suggested Services
· http://etherpad.com/: Basic collaboration, stripped down with built in chat

· http://docs.google.com/: Arguably most popular collaboration tool, offers word processor, spreadsheet and presentation applications, lots of features like publishing to a blog or website

· http://www.zoho.com/: Takes collaboration a step further, but including a database application as well.

· http://live.office.com/: Unlike the other services, payment is required to access all the features and Microsoft Office required as well.

· http://thinkfree.com/: In addition to online mode, allows users to download apps and run from home computer while syncing with online account.

Some disadvantages:
· Shift in habits: We’ve gotten used to Word, we need to adjust to the new paradigm
· Online access: Collaborators need to have reliable access to the internet, and even then editing is slightly slower online that in Word


Tech tip: Always keep a backup copy of your online documents, just in case.

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Next on Tech Time ... Business and social networking

Tech Time: Cloud Computing

Cloud computing is an elusive term to define, but a cool concept to embrace.

Imagine, being able to access your information anywhere, anytime. Imagine being able to work on virtually any computer without needing specialised software. Imagine, cloud computing!

Cloud computing can be defined as 'a style of computing where massively scalable IT related capabilities are provided as a service across the internet to multiple external customers'. The concept involves running applications on the internet and storing data on remote services accessible via the internet from any capable machine around the world.

To be clear, not all remote computing is cloud computing; the internet is not the cloud and not all software as a service is part of the cloud. But cloud computing does have significant advantages.

Advantages

• Accessibility - your data is available from virtually any Internet capable computer, leaving you device and location independent
• Cost effectiveness - 'rent' rather than buy robust software as needed
• Reliability - data is generally hosted on multiple, remote, independent servers to protect against data loss and facilitate disaster recovery

Disadvantages

• Accessibility - must have Internet service to access data; no Internet, no data
• Security - technically, your data is not private and therefore accessible by third parties
• Reliability - data access is dependent on access provided by a host who may be exposed to network outages and/or denial of service attacks

Ready to log into The Cloud? Let's start out with popular office applications for students and business professionals:

• Google Docs
• Microsoft Office Live

Currently, both sites are free to access and use.



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Next on Tech Time ... Document collaboration

Tech Time: Mobile Phone Etiquette

We see it all the time, persons yakking away insensitively at the top of their lungs , on their mobile phone, at the movie theatre or restaurant, or calling you at the crack of dawn, or interrupting your conversation by taking a call. Good phone etiquette is really common courtesy, but sometimes it is not so common. So, let’s go through a list of mobile phone do’s and don’ts.

Making A Call
· Dial very carefully to avoid dialling the wrong number for two reasons; it is annoying and it is cheaper
· Give your name first and a brief reason for the call before asking for whom you would like to speak
· Don’t distract others with your call. Mobile phone may be convenient, but that doesn’t mean they should be used everywhere and anywhere
· Use a headset while driving and speaking on the phone; don’t text and drive
· Ask for permission before taking pictures or video; when using your phone as a camera, camera rules apply
· Generally, do not call strangers before 9 am or after 10 pm

Receiving A Call
· Answer your phone promptly (by the third ring)
· Don’t answer while chewing gum, eating, typing or being somehow distracted. It is just rude.
· Switch off the ringer in meetings, at church, the movies, seminars, etc. It can be rude, disturbing or distracting for your phone to ring in such situations
· If you must answer your phone while in the company of others, inform the persons at the beginning of the meeting that you are expecting a call
· Remember everyone hears your personalised ring tone, not just you. Even though you want your ringtone to represent you and your mood, make sure it is suitable for all the situations in which your phone will ring
· Don’t yell. If the caller can’t hear you, move to a different location with stronger signal or less background noise

On A Call
· Use the hold and mute buttons to avoid embarrassing moments


Tech tip: Blue-tooth headsets are made to facilitate calls, not as a fashion accessory. When not in use, stow it away.

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Next on Tech Time ... Cloud Computing and Data Backup

Tech Time: Homework Help Online

Sadly, summer is over and it’s time to go back to school. Thanks to the Internet however, going back to school is easier than ever. Whether it is to study, research, prepare assignments or collaborate, help can be found online.

International Sites
www.homeworkspot.com
This site covers multiple subjects for students in kindergarten through to Grade 12. It also provides links to lots of resources, activities and answers for students, parents and teachers.

www.hotmath.com
Specifically directed to Math, the site looks at algebra, geometry, science, trigonometry and calculus with step by step answers, practice tests, lessons, calculators, games and workbooks. The site works best with American text books, but helpful regardless of book used. Other Math sites include: www.algerbra.com, www.algerbrahelp.com.

www.yourhomework.com
Registration (free or premium) is required to truly access this site's potential, but once registered, there is no advertising. Students can collaborate with others studying the same subject through online discussions or live chat rooms in a safe environment.

www.highschoolace.com
With a clear, clean, intuitive layout, this site covers a wide range of topics at various grade levels. Reference tools, interactive tools, download and practice papers are all key features, along with a built in dictionary and encyclopedia.


Local Sites
www.gogsat.com
Established in partnership with the Gleaner’s Youth Link, the site provides online help and exam preparation, including timed practice papers. But the site requires paid registration to truly benefit from its features.

www.homeworkjamaica.com
Although it is crowded with ads and has not been updated within the last year, the site does offer free access to GSAT and CXC tips and trivia, along with support for parents.


Tech tip: Set up your own site for your study group.



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Next on Tech Time ... Phone Etiquette

Tech Time: Back To School

The back to school shopping season is now in high gear. That shopping list may include traditional items such as binder paper and pens, but there are some new “must haves” for tech savvy students. Let’s break down the list into hardware and software.

Regardless of grade, all students have the same basic deliverables - homework. In order to efficiently research, process, collate and prepare homework, students can utilize these basic hardware tools.

• Computer: PC or Mac, desktop or notebook, tablet or netbook, the choice of form is a personal decision, but it all starts here.
• Printer/Copier/Scanner: Email and other forms of electronic submission are increasing in popularity, but paper is still the dominant form.
• Portable storage device: A simple flash drive will do for some, an external hard drive is needed by others; but the very nature of school means that students have to do work from multiple locations.
• Digital Dictaphone: This one may not be a necessity, but it sure makes life easier to record lectures, study sessions, oral language practices.
• Not so necessary but really cool: All work and no play made Carlette a dull girl, if I were back in school my must have list would be augmented with a digital camera, a Sling Box, a TV, a DVD/Blu-ray disc player, external speakers, an MP3 player and a handheld game console.

On the software checklist, your new computer needs to have some basic programmes to be really effective.

• Office application suite such as Microsoft Office, OpenOffice or Google Docs to create and edit documents, spreadsheets and presentations.
• Antivirus to protect your PC such as AVG, Kapersky, Macafee and Norton; go further to install anti-spy ware too.
• Web browser such as Internet Explorer, Firefox, Opera, Chrome or Safari
• Again, all work and no play … But we can fix that with ITunes, instant messenger software such as Trillian Astra, video conference software such as Skype, photo, video and audio edit software and compression software.

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Next on Tech Time ... Back to school websites

Tech Time: Desktop vs. Laptop

Maybe you are a parent buying a computer for a college bound kid, or a busy professional looking to work away from the office. Regardless of the reason, the decision to buy a laptop or a desktop is not one to be taken lightly.

To put it into context, a desktop computer is comprised of several complementary external components designed to operate from a fixed location. A laptop is usually an all in one unit designed for portability. Each manifestation of the computer has advantages (and disadvantages).

Desktop computers offer huge storage, fantastic graphics, ergonomic design, superior power, upgradeability and great value. Laptop computers are completely mobile and compact.

Storage: Many laptops sport 100+ GB hard drives as standard features, but desktops offer larger hard drive space. It’s not uncommon to see desktops sport 500 GB hard drives.

Graphics: Hardcore gamers, video editors and other high end graphics users need the advanced graphics processing offered by desktops.

Ergonomic Design: The design of the keyboard, monitor, mouse, speakers and other peripherals can add to the comfort and functionability of these devices especially over long periods of time.

Upgradeability: The all in one design of laptops makes upgrading challenging. Increasing the memory may be simple, but changing out the mother board, graphics card, hard drive and other key components is not practically possible on most laptops.

Great value: spec for spec, a desktop computer is cheaper than its laptop counterpart. This is primarily due to the miniaturization of parts. Desktops are also cheaper to maintain; most don’t use proprietary parts and components, meaning you don’t have to go to the dealer for repairs and upgrades.

Mobility: Packing up a desktop and using it at a remote location is clumsy and challenging. Desktops can’t work without consistent power and lots of space to spread out all the peripherals. Laptops by contrast are easy to slide in a bag and move around. You can open them up virtually anywhere. With battery power and wifi, they remain untethered and lets face it, they are sexy. Sexy is attractive to thieves as well, and laptops are being stolen at an alarming rate.

If you are on a tight budget, don’t plan to move about or seriously considering upgrading in the future, a desktop is the right computer for you. But, if you live in a small space and want to move about, then a laptop is your best option.



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Next on Tech Time ... Back to school

Tech Time: Preparing for a Hurricane

The 2009 Atlantic Hurricane Season commenced on June 1 and thankfully, we have not been threatened or hit by any hurricanes or tropical storms to date. Let’s hope, that remains true for the rest of the season, but prepare if it does not. Log on for important news, updated, tips and best of all tracking sites.


Best International Sites
National Hurricane Centre
The US National Hurricane Centre is the absolute authority on both Pacific and Atlantic hurricanes and tropical storms; many other websites and tracking software use the data provided by the NHC. The site boasts advanced satellite and radar tracking, email advisories and updates, analysis tool and tips, hurricane names and historical data. The information is provided by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

• The Weather Channel
• Storm Pulse

Best Local Sites
Go-Jamaica
Arguably one of the most popular local sites for weather information, it boasts daily weather forecasts localized by town, powerful pictures of hurricane aftermath, satellite images and great tips.

• Jamaica Meteorological Service
• Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management

Best Regional Sites
Storm Carib
The site covers the region with reports from local correspondents in each island, daily updates from the National Hurricane Centre in Miami, background information, tools and satellite images

• Caribbean Disaster Emergency Response Agency

Hurricane Tech Tips

• Make sure you have a battery operated radio to listen to updates from the RJR News Centre
  
• Completely charge phone prior to loss of electricity, ensure you have an emergency charger on hand
• Turn off data services for smart phones to preserve battery power
• Back up computer data to an external hard drive (or other data storage device) and place in safe, secure, waterproof location
• Scan and email yourself important documents
• Store family and emergency contact information into your phone; also write them down and keep in waterproof container
• Take pictures of your property and contents using your mobile phone or digital camera; further safeguard these images by uploading to online storage service
• If you are going to be away from your home or office, forward calls to a land line close to you
• For those with traditional land lines, ensure that you have a non-powered phone available

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Next on Tech Time ... Desktop vs laptop/touch vs tablet

Tech Time: Mobile Phone Myths

We keep hearing them; and they almost sound true. Mobile phone myths and urban legends have a life of their own. Even when debunked, they are rehashed and repeated over and over again, to a new generation of mobile phone users. Or, are they only branded as myths as part of an elaborate conspiracy designed to lull us into a false sense of security?
Let’s explore for ourselves.

Myth: Mobile phones can give you brain tumors
Reality: There is no tangible scientific evidence that mobile phones can cause cancer or develop brain tumors. But there is lots of anecdotal evidence that they cause headaches and increase stress levels. Mobile phones emit a low power electromagnetic field, and when used for prolonged periods can emit heat. After nearly two decades of heavy usage, there are no reported cases of brain tumors as a direct result. My advise is however, use mobile phones only when necessary … just in case.

Myth: Mobile phones can provide keyless entry for your vehicle
Reality: It is not possible to open your car using the keyless entry remote over your mobile phone. Its been widely circulated via email, that you can use your phone as a keyless entry remote, by having a friend activate the remote on one end of the call and you placing your mobile phone near your car. Keyless entry systems use radio frequencies, that cannot be transmitted over the phone.

Myth: Mobile phones cause explosions at gas stations
Reality: The electromagnetic filed and the electrical current associated with a mobile phone are not powerful enough to ignite gas. This myth came about following a late 90’s news report regarding an incident in Asia. But, there is no evidence to support the claim. Though your phone isn’t likely set off any explosions, you should be paying attention and not on your phone at the pump. REMINDER: Smoking in gas stations is not allowed.

Myth: Using a mobile phone in flight will cause the plane to crash
Reality: Crash is a strong word. Using a mobile phone in flight will not cause a plane to crash. But that doesn’t mean you should whip out your phone next time you are airborne. There are lots of other reasons to stow your phone while in the air. Many systems on an aircraft use wireless technology to communication, which can be affected by mobile phones. But, more importantly, it is important that you pay attention to what’s going on around you (and not your phone), when you are careening above the planet in a narrow mental tube at hundreds of miles and hour.

Myth: Charging your phone every day will reduce the battery life
Reality: Newer Li-Ion batteries don’t have this issue which was true of older NiCd and NiMH batteries. Charge your phone as often as you need to, but don’t overcharge your phone (because there is no need to have a mobile phone charger plugged in unnecessarily, not because its bad for the phone or battery).

Myth: Using your mobile phone while charging may cause it to explode.
Reality: Your phone will not explode, or you get electrocuted, just because you are on the phone while charging. The fuse is in the charger while likely blow before either occurrence. You will notice that your phone gets hot far more quickly while talking on charge. I’ll end the same way I started, use only when necessary.

Tech Time: Mobile Phone Security

Let’s face it, our phones are very important to our daily lives; not just to keep on contact, but sometimes as a point of reference for key information, for pictures, music and more. Losing a phone can be traumatic. So let’s take a moment to look at the steps to protect our phone and our information.

Right now, I want you to find and note your phone’s IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Number). If your phone is lost or stolen, this 15 digit number is needed for the report.

Next, remove any personal information that you want to keep ... personal. It’s very convenient to store private pictures, passwords, TRN, bank account and other relevant numbers on your phone, but it’s equally dangerous.

Watch out for viruses. Yes, phones have viruses as well. They can access your phone through Bluetooth connections, downloaded attachments or social networking malware. Some viruses simply drain your battery while searching for new victims; others steal your address book, call history and other data.

Treat your phone as you would your wallet. Keep concealed if not in use and be aware of your surroundings when using your phone. Don’t put down your phone in public places and never let it out of your sight unless it’s on your person.

Finally, lock your SIM (Subscriber Identity Module) card and your phone, separately. It can be a hassle to enter that code every time you turn on (or ever use) your phone, but well worth the effort if the phone gets stolen.

If all this fails, and your phone is actually lost or stolen, the first thing to do it to report the phone IMMEDIATELY. You are liable for ALL charges prior to being reported. Call your service provider to report the phone. If lost, request a temporary block. If you find the phone, the block can easily be lifted. If you are sure the phone is stolen, request a permanent block on the phone and the SIM.

Blocking the SIM card prevents the thief from making calls with that SIM card in any phone. Your phone number and relevant subscriber information is needed for this process. Blocking the phone prevents the thief from using that phone with any SIM card; your IMEI number is needed for this extra step.

Report your stolen phone to the police. As a citizen, you are required to report any and all criminal activity. Also, the police report may come in handy if you and your service provider get into a dispute over charges.

It will be possible to get back the same phone number, but your service provider cannot restore your data (including your contacts, images and files).


Tech tip: Use the security lock features on your phone to protect data.



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Next on Tech Time ... Mobile Phone Myths

Tech Time: Text Messaging

Trust me. Everyone is doing it, so why aren’t you?

Text messaging refers to using SMS (Short Message Service) to exchange short text messages between mobile phones. SMS text messaging is not network specific, meaning that you can send a message to virtually any mobile phone anywhere in the world ... as long as you know the number of the phone you want to send the message to.

SMS text messages are usually limited to 160 characters and that includes spaces.

If you don’t have a phone (or credit), you can still send text messages to phones using the ‘email to SMS gateway’ or through various online services (see www.techjamaica.com). The service is usually free, but has the same length restrictions. Also the protocol is different for each network, so you’ll have to know what network the receiver phone is on, unlike traditional SMS.

Now, when entering a text message on a ‘traditional’ phone key pad, there are two primary options, multi-tap and predictive text.

Using multi-tap, a key is pressed multiple times to access the list of letters on that key. For successive letters, you will have to pause or press next. Multi-tap is straight forward, so you can type without looking, but it’s not very efficient because many keystrokes are needed for virtually every letter.

In a perfect world, predictive text reduces the number of keystrokes. Predictive text may come up as T9 or SureType depending on your brand of phone. Predictive text uses a dictionary or user database to identify common words. Once you start typing, predictive text brings up a list of word options that match that keystroke combination. Sometimes, it brings up the wrong word. For example, the words good, home, gone, hoof and hood all use the same four letter keystroke combination. So read what you type before you send it.


Tech tip: Do not send or read text messages while driving.



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Next on Tech Time ... Mobile Phone Myths

Tech Time: 3G Hype

Moving out of the 3G theatre to home, 3G posters where everywhere, promising faster speed and better features than my ‘old phone’. But is it all hype?

No and yes. Let’s start with the no. 3G promises and delivers on:
· Always on connectivity at LAN like speeds
· Hot multi-media services with streaming audio and video
· Powerful email and no problems with large attachments
· Cool instant messaging with audio and video clips

But everything has a price, for 3G the price is not cheep ... literally. 3G services are more expensive than their 2G counterparts. And you need newer, more sophisticated phones to take advantage of the benefits. That is just another way of saying ... more money.

Locally, two telecoms provide 3G services, Claro and LIME. Claro rolled out its 3G service first and in a big way with broad coverage outside of Kingston and the corporate area. LIME introduced the service to its customers recently with guaranteed service in Kinston, St. Andrew and parts of St. Catherine. Digicel plans to rollout 4G on a super secret timeline I have not yet been able to crack.

Business and high end users will relish in 3G. Real time office telecommuting becomes possible, even practical.

Let’s move to the yes. Most mobile phone users don’t need or want the speed and related features. Let’s face it, a large part of the population uses a mobile phone for exactly what it was intended to do, make phone calls. Most importantly, a large part of the population lives outside of Kingston and Corporate Area.

For these users, 3G has little or no practical application. No need to buy a new expensive phone, no need to spend more on network access. No need to have a shorter battery life.

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Next on Tech Time ... Event Tech

Tech Time: 3-D Movies

Digital 3-D Technology has arrived in Jamaica. 3-D is not new, the basic technology has been around since the 1930’s, but digital technology makes it practical. Seems like everything is going digital, movies included.

Let’s put digital in context, movies are generally shot on film, converted to digital for post production and then transferred back to celluloid to be distributed in theatres. Now, movies can be shot in a digital camera, digitally edited on a computer and transferred to a hard drive (or via internet) and displayed from a digital projector. This is great for theatres and by extension movies goers because:
· Production costs are lower, making movies cheaper
· Facilitates true, practical worldwide release (cause no film need be shared)
· Better, consistent quality (film deteriorates with each showing, digital does not)
· Greater piracy collection and
· Alternative content, like 3D

Palace Amusement spent upwards of $50 million (Jamaican dollars) to install the “latest, most innovative technology”, according to Douglas Graham, CEO of the nearly 100 year old theatre company.

With digital 3-D, movies can fool your eyes and brain into thinking that they're looking into a 3-D space rather than at a 2-D screen. Images appear to have depth, and in some cases seem to be coming right towards you. The technology requires the mingling of several components including special digital projectors, custom screens and high tech angled glasses.

Most Digital 3-D systems use polarization. Polarized lenses allow only light waves that are aligned in the right direction to pass through. In a pair of digital 3-D glasses, each lens is polarized differently. The screen is specially designed to maintain the correct polarization when light from the projectors bounces off of it. Without the glasses, the screen appears blurry leading to headaches it watched too long.

The Digital 3-D glasses only work in the theatre; they can’t be used as sun glasses or be worn for prolonged period of time. At Palace Amusement, the glasses are issued and returned to be washed and sterilized after each showing.

Palace Amusement is the first theatre chain in the English speaking Caribbean to invest in this technology. Ice Age 3-D is now showing, to be followed by G Force and the re-showing of Up in 3-D. There are over 50 3-D movies slated for release internationally.



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Next on Tech Time ... Online gaming

Tech Time: Handheld Game Consoles

Having now mastered the game console at home, its time to hit the road with portable game consoles, commonly called handhelds. Handhelds are lightweight, portable devices with a built-in screens, game controls and speakers; they are easy to carry and can be used virtually anywhere. Unlike video game consoles, the controls screen and speakers are all part of a single mobile unit.

In the market for handhelds, Nintendo was king. From their pioneering Game Boy, which revolutionised portable game place, to the current DS line, Nintendo captured the lion’s share of the gaming market with the worldwide introduction of Tetris.

The DSi is the current Nintendo to rule the roust and is an upgrade from the popular Game Boy Advance (GBA) series. The basic DS system sports two screens in a clam shell design. The lower screen is touch sensitive and can be operated by a stylus or in some cases, a finger. It has a built in microphone and wifi for multiplayer gaming and online browsing. With the upgraded DSi, you’ll lose backward compatibility with GBA games, but you’ll have access to the DSi shop for downloable games and SD card access that allows you to listen to stored music. The DSi will set you back about US$130.00.

The only handheld to rival the popularity of the Nintendo series is the Sony Playstation Portable (PSP). The PSP is more expensive than the DS line, but here is why ... The PSP offers rich graphics and amazing game play with a larger collection of games than the DS. It has an AV output that allows you to watch videos or games on a regular TV. You can browse the web, play music and watch movies, listen to internet radio, talk on Skype and enjoy multigame play with competitors in the room or across the world. It’s about US$40 more and with all that power, the games do load slower than the DS. Point to note, the PSPs uses the UMD (Universal Media Disc) format.

Some may classify the new iPod Touch and iPhone as handheld game devices. But, gaming is not the core function of either device. That said, the iTouch and the iPhone are two pretty cool handheld game consoles. There are over a 100 game titles available, some free, and they are easy to source online. The iPod Touch and iPhone are both great for ammeters and may be of some interest to game enthusiasts as well.




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Next on Tech Time ... Online gaming

Tech Time: Game Consoles

Last week, we explored all the basics of video gaming, so now it’s time to “get in the game” and acquire a game console. A game console is the actual machine used exclusively for game play. When buying a new game console, the box will include the core unit (like a PC tower with the CPU, RAM and audiovisual coprocessor) and a controller (to input information and interact with the screen). Optionally, the console may also come with a game and a memory card.

Based on my informal research, four consoles are most popular in Jamaica.


Sony PlayStation 2 aka PS2
Though no longer in production, you can get a PS2 in stores for about US$50.00. There are lots of optional game accessories, 100’s of game titles available and the PS2 plays CD/DVD’s and had a built in broadband modem for online connectivity.


Sony PlayStation 3 aka PS3
For roughly US$400.00, the PS3 has a built-in hard drive (up to 80 GB) and a Blu-ray disc player with true HDMI output. The PS3 operates by wireless controllers using Bluetooth technology, has an interchangeable hard drive (2.5 sata drive), USB and has removable card support for multiple formats. The console has built-in Wi-Fi and broadband to support online gaming and shopping, but the interface is not nearly as good as the Xbox Live.


Microsoft Xbox 360
Like to PS3 the Xbox 360 has a superior selection of games and some impressive console exclusive games has well all in hi-def. It has an internal hard drive to save game and can play CD/DVD’s using Dolby surround sound, but has no Blu-ray compatibility. Truly impressive however is Xbox Live. Using the Xbox built in Wi-Fi or broadband modem, you can access an excellent, easy to use online services centre for gaming and commerce. Download whole games, movies and TV shows right to the console. Online game however requires an annual paid subscription. Purchase of the console itself will set you back about US$300.00


Nintendo Wii
Like a game console for non-gamers, the Wii is for everyone at US$250.00. It has no internal hard drive and only has SD card support, it has no high end graphics and it can’t play CD/DVD’s. But it does have a revolutionary game controller that uses a combination of infrared technology and accelerators to determine the position and movement of the controller in 3D space. This means that the game is controller with physical gestures in combination with traditional button pressing. The Wii comes with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and broadband modem connectivity, but it “eats” batteries and the nunchuck controller is sold separately. On the plus side, it does have free online services and game play.




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Next on Tech Time ... Portable game consoles aka handhelds

Tech Time: Personal Gaming

Though the first “video game” was introduced in 1947, many might agree that it was the Atari Game Console which truly spawned the video game phenomenon on the mid 70’s.

Modern day video games all incorporate audio and more sophisticated games also provide feedback such a vibration through peripherals.

Course, what sets video games apart from TV, is the level of interaction if affords the gamer through the use of various input device or game controller. This may range from a simple joystick, to a keyboard and mouse and many things in between.

Video games can be played on many platforms, including the now less popular arcade, very popular console, portable handheld, practical PC or non-game devices. Some games transcend several or all platforms. Consoles are specialised electronic devises that connect to an external TV screen or monitor, think the Sony Playstation, Nintendo Wii, X-Box 360.

The handheld is a self contained, dedicated device used in your hands. Think Nintendo DS and Playstation Portable.

The arcade game is highly specialised electronic device designed to play usually one game and is enclosed in a cabinet. Definitely not portable in any way and doesn’t typically support online gaming.

PC games are most versatile and can be played on standard computers, but a high resolution monitor is always an asset.

Then there are phones, PDA’s and calculators which are in a way the ultimate multi-purpose mobile gaming machines.

Video game genres are used to categorize video games based on their game play interaction rather than visual or narrative differences. They are classified independent of their setting or game-world content. Genres include: Action, Shooter, Action-adventure, Adventure, Construction and management simulation, Life simulation, Role-playing, Strategy, Vehicle simulation and Puzzle among others.

Jamaica is a popular market for video games, but North America, the UK and Japan take the biggest slice of the video game market cake. It is a multi-billion dollar industry.

More for us to talk about including:
Which are the best games and where to get cheats?
Which is the best platform and how to get locally?

In the mean time, get your Tech Time course credit by visiting:

www.str8gamesja.com
www.techjamaica.com

Buy a game at:
Watt’s New
Innovative Systems

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On email: famefm@rjrgroup.com
On SMS: 876-878-FAME

Next on Tech Time ... More on Personal Entertainment - Gaming

Tech

To recap, home theatre is effectively a combination of devises to recreate the movie theatre experience at home. Components needed include:
· A speaker system
· A big screen with great picture quality
· A playback system or source (such as a blue ray disc player or HDTV signal)

Our last programme generated a lot of calls, comments and questions about the screen and playback systems, so, let’s elaborate.

When buying a DTV or HTV set, there are some specs to look out for (pun intended) to ensure the best image quality. DTV and HDTV are better than SDTV for several reasons, not the least of which being resolution.

· Frame Size: this is the number of pixels usually states as the number of horizontal pixels by the number of vertical pixels (e.g. 1280 x 720 or 1920 x 1080)

· Scanning System: With interlaced scanning, half the image is displayed at first, then the other half, with progressive scanning, the entire image is displayed (e.g. i25 p60)

· Frame Rate: this is the number of frames per second, the number of times the image appears on the screen within a single second

To put it in perspective:
· For SDTV’s the standard displays have a 4:3 aspect radio, DTV/HDTV has a 16:4 aspect ratio (much more like a movie theatre)
· SDTV’s have a resolution of 704 x 408, DTV/HDTV’s best resolution is 1920 x 1080
· SDTV’s generally have a 24 frames per second frame rate, HDTV has 60
· And finally, using plasma and LCD technologies, you can enjoy huge screens, without the bulk of CRT monitors

Now that you have the TV, you need to watch something on it. Source options include:
· Satellite or cable services providers
· Game consoles
· Computers
· Blue ray discs

Notice, I didn’t say DVD. DVD looks great on an HDTV, but its not a true HDTV signal. Not all channels or programmes will broadcast in HD, but those that do look amazing, and those that don’t look good.

Game consoles such as the PS3, some computers and blue ray disc players all transmit a true HDTV signal.

Note, you’ll need special cabling to true enjoy the magnificent picture. Ideally, you will need a HDMI cable. Second best is a composite video cable.

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Next on Tech Time ... More on Personal Entertainment - Gaming

Tech Time: Vehicle Tracking

As we continue to look at technology from the Consumer Electronics Expo, the next big thing was vehicle tracking.

Utilizing GPS technology, originally developed by the US Defence Department, local companies can install a device in your car to let you know where it is, 24 hours a day. The service is offered by a number of local security companies and comes with a wide range of features including:

· Online monitoring
· Limited remote control

In business, vehicle tracking is commonly used for fleet management. In private applications, usually used to monitor the driving habits of a teen. In all cases, vehicle tracking can be used to help facilitate recovery of a stolen vehicle.

Costs include a onetime installation cost and then a monthly monitoring fee, which can be quite high.

There are some disadvantages too, like black spots, warranty voiding and tampering.

And then, there is the concern of the security of the security. If you can track you vehicle online, what stops the criminals from doing the same. Local security companies offer different solution to this problem. Most provide a password protected website through which you can track the vehicle. Notably, one company tracks the vehicle at their secure monitoring centre and then feeds the information to you or the police as appropriate.

There are vehicle tracking systems that you can install and monitor yourself, using GPRS technology. Basically a specialised phone with a GPS device.


Would you want a tracking device in your car?


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Next on Tech Time ... Personal Entertainment

IP Cameras

The Digital Consumer Electronics Expo at the Hilton Hotel last weekend was fun. Lots of booths made the event a feast on the eyes and ears. Some booths were truly dynamic while others stuck to presenting the bare facts. Information was available everywhere, not just in the booths. There were countless Expo only or “while stocks last” offers. And, there were cars (yes, cars with an s) in the ballroom!

Before we explore all the good in greater detail, two quick bad things I feel compelled to mention. First, they only accepted cash at an electronic expo and second, too many booth holders were lazy, letting interested customers walk by without at pitch.

That said, special shout outs go to these outstanding reps:
· Dave Hardy, Sound City
· Mark Miller, Digi View
· Warren Sherman, King Alarm
· Douglas James, Guardsman

Many booths covered similar technologies including:
· Personal surveillance, vehicle tracking and security
· Personal entertainment (home, car, boat audio and theatre systems)
· Gaming
· Gadgets

Most popular, IP cameras. In simple terms, IP cameras are CCTV cameras that use the internet to transmit the images to you. Significant benefits include:
· Cheaper than traditional CCTV camera overall and much more flexible
· Many have digital zoom and progressive scan capabilities
· Easy to record and transfer recordings
· Some can use “power of Ethernet” so no additional power required
· Some have wireless capabilities
· Motion sensors make camera record only when necessary
· Can transmit signals to you anywhere there is an internet connection; that means computer at the office, in your hotel room on vacation and in some cases to your phone

How would you use your IP camera?

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Shop Jamaica

Continuing in our series on cool websites, here are some sites to shop in Jamaica or for Jamaican products.

www.creativetvjamaica.com
CPTC online store
Sells DVD’s with Jamaican content, a celebration of culture
Ships around Jamaican and to the US, Canada and UK

www.virtualmalljamaica.com
Provides turnkey solutions for local businesses to get online
Host of stores in one location, craft, health and beauty, home and garden and more

www.petsuppliesjamaica.com
Cool, clean interface with nice colours
Has bulletin board to help you advertise or find lost animals
Free delivery in Kingston, delivery island wide
Prices quoted in Jamaican Dollars
Pay with credit card or PayPal

www.superplus.com
Buy vouchers redeemable for anything (but cash) or specific grocery items
Prices quoted in US dollars
Assign a recipient

www.shoptvcarib.com
Anyone can place ads online, FREE
You state your price and location
Locally based interested buyers contact you by email
You can just have small classified listing or a whole store
Lots of categories
But, must have an account to list

www.eshopjamaica.com
Really cool Jamaican products like tams, flags and cups
Personal favourites flag bikini and 3 star ratchet knife
Requires you to sign up
Very little customer support, but nice product line

www.jamaicathings.com
Food, coffee, craft, music even Ting
Can pay by credit card or PayPal
Nice interface and good support
Shipping only to US and must register

www.shopusfromja.com
Will source anything
Allows you to pay online or at specified location


www.jamaicanautoshop.com
Allows you to buy or sell a car, find a dealer, parts, loans or insurance
Had car reviews
But under construction

Tell us about it using the internet:
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