The Kleper Report on Digital Publishing - Issue 10.6 November / December 2005


Issue 10.6 November / December 2005

Contents

Multimedia/Graphics Reviews

eZediaQTI 2 (MAC/WIN)
eZediaQTI 2 enables multimedia authoring for the Web. The program requires no coding, simplifying the creative process by supporting simple drag-and-drop composition. Users can create a wide variety of products, from entire Web sites and online presentations, to interactive movies and Internet banners.

The creative process requires that all images, movies, and sounds have already been created. eZediaQTI 2 is a composer environment in which all of the digital assets are assembled, and their interaction and attributes are defined.

A seven minute on-line demo shows how easy it is to produce interactivity on the Web. It can be viewed at http://www.ezedia.com/downloads/MOVs/QTI2/ShowMe_eZediaQTI.mov. $49.95

Contact: eZedia Inc., 2-396 Assiniboine Ave., Winnipeg, MB R3C 0Y1, 877 408-0195, 204 984-9764, http://www.ezedia.ca, e-mail: info@ezedia.ca, fax: 204 956-4960.


If Monks Had Macs (MAC/WIN)
If Monks Had Macs, a multimedia presentation produced by Brian Thomas, is a holistic work that began as an ambitious early HyperCard project in 1988. The work provides an artistic interactive interface set in a monastery, with access to a sophisticated collection of books, essays, music and games. The work has become a classic, revered as a seminal work in the history of multimedia. It was published for a time by Voyager, the discriminating publishing house started by Bob Stein. The work uses the free Sophie e-book reader, available at
http://fourthworld.com/products/sophie/download.html. After downloading, readers can access a collection of free e-books. $29

Contact: rivertext, http://www.rivertext.com, e-mail: bt@rivertext.com.


DeBabelizer Pro 6 (MAC)
DeBabelizer Pro 6 is the world's most capable image processing program. It provides an easy non-programming interface for creating reusable automated workflows that can batch-process files, performing an unlimited number of operations on images, videos, and animations.

The workflows can be customized and edited to apply for specific projects or graphic types. Workflows contain a series of Actions, which represent menu commands that have been selected by using the mouse. Actions can be composed in any order within a workflow, and applied again and again. Workflows are stored by DeBabelizer either as a Global Workflow or as individual Workflow files. Global Workflows are collections of Workflows, some of which are predefined when the program is installed, and others are user-defined. Workflow Files are individual Workflow documents composed of a list of Actions and associated parameters. Mac OS X Tiger users can use Action Packs, which can be used with Automator to create external workflow solutions.

The process of making and applying Workflows is an easily learned task since all of the options that would be necessary for any image manipulation are readily accessed through menu selections. Users define Batches of files that are to be processed, and then grab the Action icon from a Workflow and drop it on the batch.

Workflows can also be expressed as Droplets. A Droplet is a small self-contained application onto which image files can be dropped. The Droplet contains an AppleScript that applies a predefined Workflow. Droplets operate independent of DeBabelizer, which need not be running.

DeBabelizer has a well-deserved reputation for processing large numbers of files quickly and reliably. This new version extends those capabilities considerably, securing the program's preeminent position in the industry. Digital publishers who handle large numbers of files daily can benefit from this application, saving many minutes of precious production time every day.

The program can import and export in more than 100 graphic file format/types, and can even identify and process images which have been mislabeled or lack an extension.

The New Features tour is available at http://www.equilibrium.com/Internet/Equil/Products/DeBabelizer+Pro+6/Features+Tour/New+Features.htm. The Desktop server-ready version is priced at $399.95, and the Server version is $3999.95.

Contact: Equilibrium, 3 Harbor Drive, Suite 100, Sausalito, CA 94965, 415 332-4343, http://www.equilibrium.com, fax: 415 331-8374.



Internet Reviews

VisualRoute 2006 Personal Edition (MAC/WIN/UNIX)
VisualRoute 2006 Personal Edition is a utility that graphically displays the route of data flow, with geographical location shown on a world map, between two points on the Internet. The listing of routing data provides information that can be analyzed to determine Internet/Intranet connectivity; to locate sources of unacceptable packet loss; and to identify the ISP that is responsible. The capture of such data can help to determine if a target Web site that can not be reached is subject to slow network performance or an Internet problem of some other kind.

Users can conduct Whois lookups for worldwide domain and network nodes for any of the network hops that a traceroute uncovers. The program also provides ping tests, reverse DNS and Whois lookups, and other Internet analysis and reporting information. The program provides a fascinating and useful look at how data moves on the Internet. A 15 day trial version is available at http://download.visualware.com/networkmonitoring/index.html. $49.95

Contact: Visualware, P.O. Box 231149, Centreville, VA 20120-1149, 866 847-9273, http://www.visualware.com, fax: 703 832-8979.



OCR Reviews

OmniPage Pro X for Macintosh (MAC)
OmniPage Pro X for Macintosh is the best available solution for Macintosh users to convert paper documents, and PDF files, into editable computer-based forms. The OCR engine in the software is rated at over 99% accuracy, and it provides not only fidelity of the recognition of text characters, but of all of the elements that comprise a given page. The software does an exceptional job of retaining the format of complex pages composed of tables, columns, and multiple type styles.

The prevalence of PDF files, and their inherent value to digital publishers, requires that users have an arsenal of tools for editing them, and extracting content. OmniPage enables users to access elements from the files for repurposing. In addition, paper files can be converted directly into PDF files, retaining them in their most useful form, and enabling their electronic distribution to Macintosh as well as Windows users. Users simply open a PDF document and process it as if it were a scanned document.

The ordinarily complex OCR process has been reduced to a single button, yet does an extraordinary job of retaining the content of documents that are of less than ideal quality (faded originals, degraded faxes, etc.), and the layout of documents that have a complex structure (spreadsheets, reports, large headlines, small numbers, etc.).

After pages have been scanned and processed, the Voice Read-Back option can be used for proofing. The computer reading capability enables the user to follow and proofread converted materials without the need for a second person. Over a dozen voices are provided, and the user can adjust the reading speed from slow to fast and in between. $499.99

Contact: ScanSoft, Inc., 9 Centennial Dr., Peabody, MA 01960, 978 977-2000, http://www.scansoft.com.



Reference Source Reviews

EndNote 9 (MAC/WIN)
EndNote 9 for Mac OS X is the standard bibliographic management application known to millions of students, scholars, researchers, and librarians around the world. The program has undergone several significant upgrades, responding both to the needs of users and the expanding capabilities of the computer platforms on which it runs.

The program maintains a database of references which the user keeps in libraries created on the basis of subject or project. References can be entered manually, or by connecting to on-line or CD-based sources. Through tight integration with Microsoft Word (Cite as you Write), the references can be inserted easily, and directly, into manuscripts.

The program has been enhanced to perform significantly faster when executing import/export and sorting. Its new database structure, introduced in version 8, supports libraries of unlimited size, as well as the inclusion of images. Its over 2600 connection files, import filters, output styles, and manuscript templates, makes it the most comprehensive, yet flexible program of its kind. It is the ideal program for sharing and collaborating with colleagues, across platforms and around the globe.

This version incorporates support for Macintosh Spotlight search, which uncovers both EndNote references and related files on the user's system. EndNote references appear in an ordered list. Clicking on a library results in a view of its contents.

The new support for Unicode now enables users to import, export, cite references and create bibliographies in any language, as well as connect to native language libraries from any source. Users can flexibly connect and search worldwide data sources and benefit from 20 new MARC formats.

Several research tools work seamlessly with EndNote. These include RefViz (Mac and Windows), to explore references visually; OnFolio (Windows), to manage Web information; and sciPROOF (Windows), to proof scientific manuscripts for spelling and formatting. Trial versions of these products are bundled with EndNote 9.

Although this review focuses on the Macintosh version, the Windows version is similar. $329.95 for the full version. The student price is $109.95 with valid institutional I.D.



Entertainment Reviews

Normsoft' Pocket Tunes Deluxe 3.0.4 (Palm OS)
Normsoft's Pocket Tunes Deluxe 3.0.4 is an audio player for Palm OS 5 devices that supports MP3, WMA, Ogg Vorbis, and uncompressed WAV audio files. Content can reside on an internal flash memory card, or can be streamed, in MP3 format, live over a wireless Internet connection from ShoutCast radio. The user can organize their music by artist, album and genre, can control it using a hi-fi graphic equalizer, and can customize it using any of dozens of available skins. Other features include: smooth fade (crossfade) between songs; bookmarks to locate a place in an audio book or music; background playback while using other Palm applications; screen blanking to conserve power (on supported devices); one hand operation through the use of the Five-Way navigator; shuffle and repeat, and more. $27.95

Contact: Handmark, Inc., 105 East 5th Street #201, Kansas City, MO 64106, http://www.handmark.com, e-mail: sales@handmark.com.



Fonts/Font Management

The Altemus Collection (MAC/WIN)
The Altemus Collection is a unique library of 44 fonts that have been designed and drawn based on the observation and discovery of Robert Altemus, a renown designer and art director. Mr. Altemus has a talent for rendering designs that he sees in his environment into typographic reality. All of the over 8000 characters in the collection are original and represent the potential for digital publishers to introduce unique and attractive design elements to materials produced for print or on-screen reading.

Most of the fonts in the collection are designed on a square em space so that they can be composed as borders with no tracking and solid linespacing. This provides the enduser with limitless design options.

Three of the newest releases are Cuts 3, Dingbats, and Sports. Cuts 3 includes a wide variety of leaves, wings, phones, light bulbs, and sunburst designs. Dingbats, as the name implies, is comprised of glyphs such as encircled numbers, check marks, ballot boxes, pointers, stars, etc. that are common to typographic embellishment. Finally, Sports consists of various types of balls, rackets, clubs, gloves, and other representations of popular sports. Each font is $19.


The Lanston Collection (MAC/WIN)
The Lanston Collection offered by the Lanston Type Company, a division of P22 Type Foundry, offers a spectacular collection of classic typeface designs and ornament based on the work of the master craftsmen of the art of printing. The collection is offered in PostScript, TrueType, and in some cases, OpenType. Here is a representative sample:

Artscript, designed by Sol Hess, and released in 1948, is reminiscent of the formal penmanship practiced by the ancient scribes. An extensive set of alternate characters is available. (Artscript Set with Opentype (2 styles) $29.95; Regular (1 style) $19.95; Alt (1 style) $19.95)

Californian was designed by Frederic Goudy in 1939 as a special commission for the University of California at Berkeley. (Californian Set including OpenType format (8 styles) $69.95; Text Regular (1 style) $19.95; Text SC (1 style) $19.95; Text Opentype $29.95; Text Italic (1 style) $19.95; Text Italic Swash (1 style) $19.95; Text Italic Opentype $29.95; Display Regular (1 style) $19.95; Display SC (1 style) $19.95; Display Opentype $29.95; Display Italic (1 style) $19.95; Display Italic Swash (1 style) $19.95; Display Italic Opentype $29.95)

Cloister was designed by Morris Fuller Benton during the period of 1913-1915. It was digitized in the early 2000's by designer Jim Rimmer. (Cloister Set Including OT (11 styles) $99.95; Cloister Light & Light Italic Set including OpenType (6 styles) $39.95; Light (1 style) $19.95; Light Small Caps (1 style) $19.95; Cloister Light Pro (1 style) $29.95; Light Italic (1 style) $19.95; Light Swash (1 style) $19.95; Cloister Light Italic Pro (1 style) $29.95; Cloister Regular & Italic Set including OpenType (6 styles) $39.95; Regular (1 style) $19.95; Small Caps (1 style) $19.95; Cloister Pro (1 style) $29.95; Italic (1 style) $19.95; Swash (1 style) $19.95; Cloister Italic Pro (1 style) $29.95; Cloister Bold & Bold Italic Set including OpenType (6 styles) $39.95; Bold (1 style) $19.95; Cloister Bold Pro (1 style) $29.95; Bold Italic (1 style) $19.95; Bold Swash (1 style) $19.95; Cloister Bold Italic Pro (1 style) $29.95)

Garamont, designed by Frederic Goudy, is based on the original Garamond designs of 1540. This version was digitized by Jim Rimmer in 2001. (Garamont Set Including All Text and Display fonts. (12 styles) $69.95; Garamont Text Regular & Italic Set including OpenType format (6 styles) $49.95; Garamont Text Roman Set including OpenType format (3 styles) $29.95; Text Regular (1 style) $19.95; Text Small Caps (1 style) $19.95; Text OSF (1 style) $19.95; Garamont Text Italic Set including OpenType format (3 styles) $29.95; Text Italic (1 style) $19.95; Text Italic Swash (1 style) $19.95; Text Italic OSF (1 style) $19.95; Garamont Display Regular & Italic Set including OpenType format (6 styles) $49.95; Garamont Display Roman Set including OpenType format (3 styles) $29.95; Display Regular (1 style) $19.95; Display Small Caps (1 style) $19.95; Display OSF (1 style) $19.95; Garamont Display Italic Set including OpenType format (3 styles) $29.95; Display Italic (1 style) $19.95; Display Italic Swash (1 style) $19.95; Display Italic OSF (1 style) $19.95)

Goudy Oldstyle, was designed by Frederic Goudy for American Type Founders in 1915. It was issued by Lanston Monotype in 1930 with long descenders, which this digital version has maintained. (Goudy Oldstyle Family including OpenType format (8 styles) $79.95; Regular (1 style) $19.95; Small Caps (1 style) $19.95; Opentype w/ optional short descenders $29.95; Italic (1 style) $19.95; Italic Small Caps (1 style) $19.95; Cursive (1 style) $19.95; Italic Opentype w/ optional short descenders $29.95; Bold (1 style) $19.95; Opentype Bold w/ optional short descenders $29.95; Bold Italic (1 style) $19.95; Cursive Bold (1 style) $19.95; Opentype Bold Italic w/ optional short descenders $29.95)

Kennerley Old Style was designed in 1911 by Frederic Goudy for publisher Mitchell Kennerley. The design is considered one of Goudy's best text faces, and an American classic since it is not designed after a historical master. (Kennerley Set Including Regular, Italic, Swash, Opencaps & Opentype (9 styles) $89.95 Kennerley Regular Set Including Opentype (5 styles) $49.95; Regular (1 style) $19.95; SC (1 style) $19.95; Opencaps (1 style) $19.95; Kennerley Pro OT (1 style) $29.95; Italic (1 style) $19.95; Swash (1 style) $19.95; Kennerley Italic Pro (1 styles) $29.95; Kennerley Bold Set Including Opentype (4 styles) $49.95; Bold (1 style) $19.95; Bold SC (1 style) $19.95; Bold Pro OT (1 styles) $29.95; Bold Italic (1 style) $19.95; Bold Swash (1 style) $19.95; Bold Italic Pro OT (1 styles) $29.95)

Lanston Monotype Ornaments 1 is an assortment of 72 dingbats that do not fall into a single category. (Ornaments 1 $19.95)

Lanston Monotype Ornaments 2 features designs based on those used by the earliest printers. The ornaments can be used alone or in multiples to form borders. (Ornaments 2 with Opentype $29.95; Ornaments 2 $19.95)

Lanston Monotype Ornaments 3 is a collection of over 70 ornaments suitable for creating borders. (Ornaments 3 $19.95)

Nicholas Cochin, based on engraved letters produced by Charles Nicolas Cochin in the 17th century, was designed by Georges Peignot in the early 20th century. (Nicolas Cochin Set (2 styles) $29.95; Regular (1 style) $19.95; Italic (1 style) $19.95; Nicolas Cochin Pro Set (2 styles) $39.95; Regular Pro (1 styles) $29.95; Italic Pro (1 styles) $29.95)

Ornaments Animalia consists of 62 ornaments drawn from a variety of sources, and originally sold individually. (Ornaments Animalia (1 style) $19.95)

Remington, whose source is unknown, was designed to resemble the monospaced type produced on a typewriter. The italic version was designed by Frederic Goudy in 1927. (Remington Typewriter Set (2 styles) $29.95; Regular (1 style) $19.95; Italic (1 style) $19.95; Remington Typewriter Pro Set (2 styles) $39.95; Regular Pro (1 styles) $29.95; Italic Pro (1 styles) $29.95)

Watergarden Ornaments, offered in 11 fonts, are suitable for creating ornate borders. (Watergarden Set (11 TT/PS) (11 styles) $49.95; Watergarden A (1 style) $19.95; Watergarden D (1 style) $19.95)

Contact: P22 type foundry, POB 770, Buffalo, NY 14213, 716 885-4490, http://www.p22.com, e-mail: http://www.p22.com, fax: 716 885-4482.



DTP Reviews

Adobe Creative Suite 2 (MAC/WIN)
Software is never purchased once­it is purchased again and again in the form of software updates, upgrades, and revisions. Software is a work in progress, which, when it reaches version 1.0 level, is offered for sale. The development process continues; however, to rid the software of bugs, expand its compatibility with complimentary applications, further accommodate the host operating system (and perhaps support additional operating systems), and, most important, to add new features. Users are willing to pay for new features to reduce the time and effort required to generate output, to advance and enhance their production capabilities, and in some cases, to remain compatible with their customers and colleagues.

Although it is often more comfortable, and less expensive, to remain with a familiar version of a software product, to do so is usually shortsighted, and potentially damaging from a business and productivity perspective.

Software usually takes on a life of its own. The upgrade cycles of most applications run, on average, from six to twelve months. This means that users must take the time to upgrade their systems and learn new software capabilities on a routine basis. This is a fact of life for the creative professional.

On Sept. 29, 2003 Adobe set a milestone in the history of digital publishing software by introducing the Adobe Creative Suite. It represented the first integrated collection of applications that worked synergistically, streamlining production and significantly improving efficiency. The suite represents the spectrum of operations that digital publishers confront daily, and deal with in a nonlinear, and sometimes illogical, workflow. What Adobe accomplished with the initial release of the Creative Suite was no less than monumental in its impact on the daily lives of creative professionals. The major benefits included:

• A consistent user interface for all applications. This relieves users from the burden of dealing with differences in tool and menu placement, and the typically different working scheme of various programs.

• Cross platform support for files produced on Macintosh and Windows, and complete application performance parity across both platforms.

• Close integration of applications, so that files are easily and readily moved between applications and operating systems.

• Acknowledgment of the reality that no one piece of software is typically used alone to produce a given project. By bundling the full complement of Adobe software into one package it provides an affordable, complete, integrated workflow solution.

• Direct use of native file formats in CS programs other than their originating applications. It was not long ago that there were literally hundreds of text and graphic file formats in use, which served to unnecessarily complicate the exchange process between customer and service provider. Vestiges of that remain, however, Adobe is clearly not contributing to it.

• Version control using Version Cue, which recognized that projects usually require many files which undergo many changes before they are complete, and that several people are likely to work on them, interact with them, and ultimately approve or disapprove them.

• Recognition that creative content may, in its lifetime, take a number of different forms, and be expressed in a number of different publishing formats: print, Internet, electronic document, mobile device, etc.

• The designation of PDF as the universal file format among all of the CS applications.

• Sharing of the Adobe Color Engine, so that all applications work in a common color space and display and output color uniformly.

The Adobe Creative Suite 2, introduced on April 4, 2005, furthers the integration of powerful applications and provides significant new features to their individual sets of capabilities. Perhaps most significant is the Adobe Bridge, a visual file browser and asset management system that binds all applications in the suite together, providing common ground for accessing (and tracking through Version Cue CS2), and deploying all-important content. For the first time users have a digital glue that holds their applications tightly to the creative elements that they process. No contingent of separate software developers could have devised the intelligent structure, and exercised the grand overture, of building a digital asset system into a core of applications.

In addition to serving as a visual content organizer, the Adobe Bridge provides access to the Adobe Stock Photos resource, which supports the viewing and purchase of digital assets from a growing number of world-class stock image providers, including Photodisc by Getty Images; Comstock Images by Jupitermedia; Digital Vision; and many more. This built-in access offers users an immediate connection with professional stock photography houses that can sell and license images immediately, as they are needed.

The release of a new suite, as opposed to the release of an individual application, carries with it the expectation that the entire collection of applications has been improved significantly, and is worthy of upgrading. In the case of CS2 there are many noteworthy improvements that justify the investment. Among our favorites are the Vanishing Point feature in Photoshop CS 2 which enables the user to add elements to an image that automatically fit the perspective of a given image area (see the demo: http://media.studio.adobe.com/linked_content/en/acs2ttL08/phscs2ttvpgrid.mov). In Illustrator CS2 is the new Live Trace capability that converts, with amazing accuracy, a bitmap image into an editable and scalable vector illustration (see the demo: http://media.studio.adobe.com/linked_content/en/acs2ttL07/illcs2ttlvtrc.mov). Those familiar with Adobe Streamline will recognize this capability, although the algorithms have been completely rewritten, and the features improved dramatically. InDesign CS2 introduces Object Styles, which are a set of object-level formatting data that is maintained to control the overall design of a document and simplify global changes (see the demo: http://media.studio.adobe.com/linked_content/en/acs2ttL06/indcs2ttupdobjsty.mov). Acrobat extends its functionality as a workgroup collaborative tool with Inclusive Electronic Reviews, which now allow users of the free Adobe Reader 7 to participate in the PDF review cycles (see the demo: http://media.studio.adobe.com/linked_content/en/acs2ttL10/acr7ttrdrcomt.mov). Premium version, $1199.

Contact: Adobe Systems Inc., 345 Park Ave., San Jose, CA 95110-2704, 408 536-6000, http://www.adobe.com, fax: 408 537-6000.


Adobe InDesign CS PageMaker Edition (MAC)
The Adobe InDesign CS PageMaker Edition extends the capabilities of InDesign CS to include PageMaker-specific functions. The software is designed to extend the skill sets familiar to PageMaker users as they transition into the InDesign environment.

This edition of InDesign CS is identical to the standard version except for the addition of the Adobe PageMaker Plug-in Pack which provides eight PageMaker-specific functions to InDesign CS. With the use of the Publication Converter, PageMaker users can easily import PageMaker 6.0 documents and templates in addition to PageMaker 6.5-7.x and QuarkXPress 3.3-4x documents which can be opened by the standard InDesign program.

Additional functions provided by the plug-in pack includes: InBooklet Special Edition, for imposing pages in printer spreads with control over margins, bleeds, creep, and crossover traps; Automated Bullets and Numbering; Data Merge, for producing variable data materials derived from databases and spreadsheets; Position Tool, which works similarly to the PageMaker crop tool; Template Browser and a set of more than 80 professional templates; PageMaker compatible keyboard shortcuts; Story Editor, to enter and edit text in a word-processing environment; and the PageMaker Toolbar. $398 (Adobe InDesign CS PageMaker Edition, $349; Adobe PageMaker Plug-in Pack, $49).

Contact: Adobe Systems Inc., 345 Park Ave., San Jose, CA 95110-2704, 408 536-6000, http://www.adobe.com, fax: 408 537-6000.


MultiAd Creator Professional 7 (MAC/WIN)
MultiAd Creator Professional 7 is the standard for ad creation in the newspaper and periodical industries. Since 1989 it has been the leading application for the creative design of advertising spreads, with a feature set unsurpassed by any area composition program. Skilled Creator artists are as, or more, productive and creative using this product as they would be with any publishing product and collection of third-party plug-ins or extensions.

The program was designed for the creation of print advertising, and as such, it incorporates the formats, layouts, and tools that work to that end. Despite the sophisticated array of capabilities, the interface remains easy-to-use, and is familiar to anyone who has used any form of page composition software.

The definition and use of space, in dividing page regions, and placing multiple elements, is a strength of the program. The user can automate almost any operation, making matrices of elements or element groups, and duplicating them with control over their distribution, location, and size. Formatting applied to graphics or text can be copied and saved as a Style Model, to be applied to other elements. Text and graphics can be restrained to conform to an element or text box, either scaled to fit, placed with no scaling, fit within the container, or filled and cropped. The program excels in its ability to automate the page creation process and leverage what has already been created.

The Files Palette is a function that we have long thought should be a part of every page layout program. It enables the user to import a list of files that will be used in a job, or ad, either graphics (including PDF and native Photoshop files) or text, and place them on the page as needed.

New to this version are Layers, to enable the order of multiple stacks of elements for design experimentation, or to create multiple versions of the same ads for geographic, language, or other editions.

Also new is the Creator Media Database Interface (CMDI) which allows users to access images from the Adbuilder.com image database, or other remote servers, and place images directly in Creator. Images that are found can be placed in the Files Palette, or dragged directly into the document window.

Anyone who deals with the creation of advertising matter should investigate the use of Creator. A demo is available at http://www.creatorsoftware.com/products/creator_professional/demo/registration/. $499

Contact: Multi-Ad Services, Inc., 1720 West Detweiller Dr., Peoria, IL 61615-1695, 888-567-1986, 309 692-1530, WWW: http://www.multi-ad.com, e-mail: corporate@multi-ad.com, fax: 309 692-6566.



Word Processing Reviews

CopyWrite 2.2 (MAC)
CopyWrite 2.2 is a special-purpose application designed to assist in the process of creative writing for authoring books, stories, and projects of all sorts. Unlike word processors, which are strong on formatting, or publishing applications, which are strong on layout, CopyWrite is strong on the creative process of writing.

A file in CopyWrite will consist of several documents, all related to a particular project. The author can create an unlimited number of documents, which can be chapters in a book, sections in a report, or categorized documents labeled as Characters, Places, Elements, Ideas, and Premises. The writer is free to create these associated documents as the urge occurs, and they are all retained within the single file, wherein they can searched, filtered, and accessed immediately. The file is saved automatically, so even an intent, preoccupied author will not lose any work.

The screen view can be a full-screen editor or divided, with all documents listed toward the top, and a selected documents' content displayed below. A fly-out to the side keeps track of notes associated with the project or with individual documents, and a listing of associated external links. A demo version can be downloaded at http://www.bartastechnologies.com/products/, and a potential user can experience this flexible environment that inspires creativity and the free flow of ideas. $29.99

Contact: Bartas Technologies, http://www.bartastechnologies.com, e-mail: contact@bartastechnologies.com, sales@bartastechnologies.com.



Digital Audio

MAGIX Audio Cleaning Lab 10 (WIN )
MAGIX Audio Cleaning Lab 10 is an application that enables owners of analog music, held on vinyl records and cassettes, and even old CDs, to convert them into restored and enhanced forms with four-channel surround sound, on either CDs or DVDs. The program produces 24-bit sound for crystal-clear reproduction, free of annoying hisses, crackling, humming and noise. When outputting to a DVD Audio disc, users can record up to seven music CDs on a single disc and play them on a conventional DVD player, and burn up to 100 hours of music on an MP3 DVD.

Features include: Spectral Cleaning, which can remove background noise, such as coughing and whistling, without negatively affecting the output signal; 38 professional studio effects with cleaning and mastering wizards; automatic volume adjustment; sound filter for the Karaoke effect; production of disc and jewel case labels; and more.

Users have access to options that make the music conversion conform to listening preferences, such as applying the Tape Simulation feature to retain the warm analog-like sound rather than that of cold CD. Audio noise can be removed using the DeHisser 2.0 and DeNoiser 2.0, both of which can be applied using the Task Assistant, which provides mini-video tutorials. $39.99

Contact: Magix, 1680 Michigan Ave., Suite 900, Miami Beach, FL 33139, 888-326-2449, http://www.magix.com, e-mail: us-info@magix.net.


SmartSound Film Composer Series 1-6 (MAC/WIN)
The SmartSound Film Composer Series is a six volume set of royalty-free music featuring the work of Richard Band. Band, with a "name that works," has a long list of movie and TV credits, from "Puppet Master" to "Walker, Texas Ranger."

The discs, which work exclusively with SmartSound music applications, can be edited to fit the exact length of any video clip or scene, without altering the tempo, and with the inclusion of a true beginning and end. This affords video producers wide flexibility in applying the tracks, and no audible distortion nor deviation from the composer's basic work.

More than any collection of music we have yet reviewed, this library provides the variety of themes necessary to meet most scoring needs. The track categories, and track names, suggest just the effect that the music will elicit. We were impressed by the visceral affect of the music, and how well it conformed to its classification and intended use.

The volumes in this collection are: Vol. 1: Action Adventure, Vol. 2: Horror, Vol. 3: Drama, Vol. 4: Suspense, Vol. 5: Comedy, and Vol. 6: Family. Each volume is priced at $99, or as a three-pack for $249, or the complete collection for an introductory price of $399.

Contact: SmartSound Software, Inc., 9836 White Oak Ave., Suite 209, Northridge, CA 91325, 800 454-1900, 818 718-9999, http://www.smartsound.com, fax: 818 718-9990.


MAGIX Soundpool DVD Collection 11 (MAC/WIN)
MAGIX Soundpool DVD Collection 11 is a library of more than 7000 CD quality (7GB) sound samples and loops that can be used royalty- and copyright-free. The files are in standard WAV format, and are compatible with most audio and video software. The files represent a variety of special effects, instruments, and vocals encompassing musical styles, including Big Beat, Soundtrack, Rock, Pop, Hip-Hop, Techno, and more.

The collection, which is equivalent to 10 CDs worth of content, is provided in 16-bit, 44.1 kHz stereo, and 80-140 beats per minute (BPM). $29.99

Contact: Magix, 1680 Michigan Ave., Suite 900, Miami Beach, FL 33139, 888-326-2449, http://www.magix.com, e-mail: us-info@magix.net.



Additions/Extensions Reviews

Ultra Image (MAC/WIN)
Ultra Image is a collection of Adobe Photoshop Actions that have been finely tuned to interact with images from various camera manufacturers, and apply to various kinds of photographs (portraits, landscapes, product images, weddings, etc.). $59.95 plus $10 shipping


Stupendous Software iMovie Plug-ins (MAC)
Stupendous Software iMovie Plug-ins comprises an enormous, shall we say stupendous collection of iMovie add-ons organized in packages of various sizes, each selling for $25. They include:

• ASCII & Art iMovie Pack for creating abstract and artistic variations based on ASCII characters and art as inspired by posters of the 1970s.

• Big & Bold iMovie Title Pack for creating motion text. Users can adjust both the appearance and motion of the text.

• Color Effects iMovie Pack consisting of 33 effects for adjusting color and framing clips. The user can extract and swap color channels, and add noise, posterization, and stylized appearances.

• Crops & Zooms iMovie Pack consisting of 34 effects for cropping, zooming, scaling, and related operations. Other effects include camera shake, flip, iris, peephole, and rotate.

• Glows & Blurs iMovie Pack consisting of 29 effects related to glow, blur, and diffusion. Also included are artistic effects for extracting and emphasizing shape edges and outlines, and for embossing.

• Labels & Overlays iMovie Pack for annotating clips with labels, markers, arrows, letters, numbers, geometric shapes, grids and overlays.

• Levels & Balance iMovie Pack consisting of 29 effects for color adjustment, including gamma, color balance, and white balance.

• Masks & Compositing for creating blue screen, green screen, and compositing. Users can also extract masks from clips and then manipulate them and use them in compositing.

• Scratch & Dirt iMovie Pack for adding film artifacts and damage, such as flickering, dirt and dust, uneven exposure, and drifting focus to create a old-looking clip.

• Smoke & Glass iMovie Pack consisting of 20 animated smoke and glass refraction effects.

• SplitScreen & PiP iMovie Pack for creating split-screen and picture-in-picture effects.

• Suave & Serifed iMovie Title Pack for creating fades, blurs, glows and dissolves.

• Time Effects iMovie Pack consisting of 12 effects for distorting clips over time, including slow motion and fast motion.

• Time Effects 2 iMovie Pack for further extending the control of clip speed over time .

The entire bundle of plug-ins can be purchased for $200.

Contact: Stupendous Software, http://www.stupendous-software.com, e-mail: info@stupendous-software.com.


Magic Bullet Editors (MAC/WIN)
Magic Bullet is a plug-in suite available for a number of host applications, including Final Cut Pro, Adobe Premiere Pro, Avid AVX, and Sony Vegas 5. The software processes DV footage to look like it was shot on film using 50 Magic Bullet "Looks" to match Hollywood films. The product has been used on many theatrical productions, including Jackass­The Movie and Vanilla Sky. It has also been used successfully in post production for producing TV shows, commercials, music videos, motion graphics, and more.

The look of film, which is presented at 24 fps, is considered a more participatory experience, different from digital video which is presented at 30 fps, and is more life-like. The look of film is preferable, and is not only judged by color and tint, but by the filters, lenses, and other effects used by film cinematographers. Magic Bullet editors enable users to add effects that mimic film damage, such as grain, splotches, scratches and projection artifacts, and to soften the harsh edges and over saturated colors of video. $395


Plugin Galaxy (MAC/WIN)
Plugin Galaxy is a collection of 20 Photoshop compatible plugins that can generate over 120 different effects. These include such novel plugins as: Coolerize, which manipulates the colors in an image; Cryptology, to encrypt and decrypt images; Glass, to apply glass-like effects; Instant Mirror, to create a multitude of mirror effects; Page Curl, to create page curls and rolls; Sunshine, to generate sunshine and sunset effects; Zoom, to create a zoom circle; and more. $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.


Eye Candy 5: Textures (MAC/WIN)
Eye Candy 5: Textures is a collection of 10 Photoshop-compatible plug-ins that provides a seamless tiling option for all of its filters. The filters are capable of generating photorealistic surfaces that approximate wood, marble, embossed metal, snake and lizard skin, and fur. The filters are provided with over 200 presets and the user can create their own. The user interface, which is based on Eye Candy 4000, has been improved significantly, with easy to use sliders and more settings. The effects are very professional and visually stunning. $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.


InEffects (MAC/WIN)
InEffects is an InDesign CS2 plug-in that provides users with the capability to add special effects to text and graphic objects. Each effect (drop shadow, inner shadows, inner glows, outer glows, bevels, and embossing) has a variety of precision controls that enable the user to achieve exactly the result that is required. The effects can be applied in any combination, and effects settings can be saved in reusable styles. Files that are sent to service bureaus that do not have InEffects installed can take advantage of the free InEffects Viewer. $99.99

Contact: alap, inc., (A Lowly Apprentice Production), Inc., 5963 La Place Court, Suite 206, Carlsbad, CA 92008, 888 818-5790, 760 438-5790, http://www.alap.com, e-mail: info@alap.com, fax: 760 438-5791.



Productivity Reviews

NoteBook 2.0 (MAC)
NoteBook 2.0 is a very flexible note-taking and organizing tool that enables users to keep track, in a single application, of content from a wide variety of sources. The interface resembles a spiral-bound paper notebook composed of pages and divided by selectable tabs. The tags can be any color or font. The notebook cover can be customized, as can most of the NoteBook features. Each notebook page is organized as an outline, providing the means to assemble information hierarchically. The outlines are composed of cells, which can be filled with text, of any font, size or color, typed or copied into them; or with files or images, or media (movies, sounds, and multi-page PDF documents). The images can be copied, dragged and dropped, or imported. Cells are opened or closed by clicking on the blue triangle which hides or reveals associated content.

A very useful feature is Clipping Services, which adds access to any NoteBook page from any application on the computer using the Services menu of that application. Content can be easily copied and pasted, and in some cases the clipping can be edited or annotated prior to pasting in NoteBook.

The content of a cell is accentuated by the addition of several attributes, such as creation and modification dates, keywords, stickers, and highlighting. This information is used to create a notebook index, which is generated automatically, and provides a helpful visual overview of the notebook contents. The table of contents is also generated automatically.

Notebooks can be exported to the Web, retaining their visual formatting, and including clickable tabs and expanding and collapsing outline cells. $49.95

Contact: Circus Ponies Software, Inc., P.O. Box 31417, San Francisco, CA 94131-0417, 415 695-3100, http://www.circusponies.com, e-mail: info@circusponies.com, fax: 415 69511930.


DayChaser (MAC)
DayChaser is a time management utility that not only supports schedules and appointments, but incorporates intelligent elements that provide a truly customized personal organizer. Calendars can be displayed in multiple formats, utilizing user definable categories, color-coded entries, and much more.

Entries are of four types: appointments, events, memos, and executable tasks. Each of these kinds of entries can be posted to a particular date. Appointments relate to a defined time period, from a minute to any number of days. Events relate to a single day. Any time and date can be annotated with a memo. Finally, executable tasks are scheduled automatic operations. The tasks can be defined to do things like launch or quit an application, run an AppleScript, shutdown the computer, or perform another similar function.

Users can attach e-mail addresses to an entry, and recipients can automatically receive notifications of customized messages. The calendar can be customized for easier viewing of related events and activities, and multiple files and URLs can be assigned to any calendar entry.

As events, activities, and appointments approach, the program can automatically issue alerts, at any point prior to their occurrence, via an on-screen message, an e-mail, or both. The application need not be running since a background application handles the alert process. $20

Contact: Econ Technologies, Inc., POB 621801, Oviedo, FL 32762-1801, 407 365-4209, http://www.econtechnologies.com, e-mail: sales@econtechnologies.com, fax: 407 365-6714.


Workflow Automation with AppleScript (MAC)
Workflow Automation with AppleScript is an indepth training program that leads a user through the production of an automated page layout example. The user is shown how to apply AppleScript to flow images, from iView MediaPro, and text, from FileMaker, into Adobe InDesign through a series of 13 hands-on exercises. All of the necessary software, in run-time or trial versions, and scripts are provided. The program, which is a downloadable presentation, is supported with HTML, and enhanced with 25 QuickTime movie demonstrations, and numerous hyperlinks. The 12-hour training package is produced by TECSoft, recognized AppleScript experts, led by John Thorsen, Jr. John has a talent for breaking down complex concepts into smaller, more understandable parts, and has delivered live, hands-on classes, for many years. $49.95

Contact: TECSoft, 136 Main St., POB 2220, Amagansett, NY 11930-2220, 800 626-4119, 631 267-0700, http://www.tecsoft.com, e-mail: info@tecsoft, fax: 631 267-2386.


Slacker ToDo Lists 2.1.7 (MAC)
Slacker ToDo Lists 2.1.7 is a flexible and rich application for managing "to do" lists and appointments, and keeping notes and reminders. The user enters items in an outline list, which is sortable, and re-orderable. Each entry can be identified with an icon, typeface, and color, and can be linked to a note of unlimited length explaining the entry. Notes can contain rich text and can include hyperlinks. Entries can be nested, such as putting all items related to a particular trip under a travel heading. Each item can have an associated due date, selected from a displayed calendar system, and an alarm for notification. The application preferences enable the user to customize the program. $19

Contact: Mindlube Software, http://www.mindlube.com, e-mail: support@mindlube.com.


iClock (MAC)
iClock is categorized as a "personal time hub," which greatly extends the functionality of the Macintosh OS X clock. The user can customize the clock appearance, controlling its size, color, typeface, date display, and associated information. A calendar, linked to information in the Address Book, shows birthdays; and the interface supports multiple time zones, quick-set alarms, and a stopwatch. Additional features are: instant weather reports, portfolio tracking, customizable floating clocks, access to area and country telephone codes, free calendar themes, view of system IP address and other information, and display of the OS 9 applications menu. $20

Contact: Script Software, http://www.scriptsoftware.com, e-mail: info@scriptsoftware.com.



CD-ROM Reviews

CD & DVD-Maker 7 Titanium Suite (WIN)
CD & DVD-Maker 7 Titanium Suite provides nine integrated applications that are accessible from a single user interface. Among the highlights of the program are: Cinematic Video(tm) and Cinematic Slideshow (tm) which enables auto-editing of videos and still images with a choice of styles, the inclusion of sophisticated effects and transitions, and synchronization with background music; Disc Spanning, to back-up more data than will fit on a single disc, while retaining the native file formats; Home Video Maker (tm) to capture videos, edit and enhance clips and stills using a fully featured NLE, and burn them to DVD with high-end effects and interface construction; DVD Fit (tm) to compress dual-layer DVD-9 movies onto a single 4.7 Gb single-layer disc; Backup NOW! (tm) to archive and restore data easily to disc or an FTP site; and more. This single package packs an incredible number of features for burning music, images, video, and data to CD and DVD. $79.99

Contact: NewTech Infosystems, Inc., 5 Mason, Suite 150, Irvine, CA 92618, 949 421-0720, http://www.NTIus.com, fax: 949 421-0750.



Utility Reviews

A Better Finder Rename 6 (MAC)
A Better Finder Rename 6 is an application that simplifies and automates the time-consuming process of renaming multiple files. The program is of special interest to digital publishers who have large collections of digital assets that need naming, or who want to change the cryptic numeric IDs that digital cameras assign to images, or to reassign names of groups of files transferred from Windows or Unix, or for any number of other good reason.

The program is accessible from the context menu, by pressing Control-Command-R, by dragging files to the Dock item, or by dragging files to a defined droplet.

The renaming options are incredible, and include: replace at beginning, replace at end, replace characters, add to beginning, add to end, add date/time to begining, add date/time to end, remove at beginning, remove at end, make UPPERCASE, make Proper Case, add number to beginning, add number to end, and many, many more. If there is a way to automatically rename a group of files, this program can probably do it. A Windows version is also available. $19.95


Spring Cleaning 7.0 (MAC)
Spring Cleaning 7.0 provides the most diverse and coordinated set of tools for optimizing the performance of a Macintosh. As the name implies, the program cleans a user's hard drive, removing temporary and log files (Logs & Temporary Items Finder), duplicate files (Duplicates Finder(tm)), and large files that the user no longer has a need for.

The SizeManager(tm) presents a graphical representation of the size of each element stored on a drive. The user can quickly concentrate on those large files which are taking up the most space, and determine if they can be removed. If they can, the MacUninstaller(tm) can be used to remove all traces of a given software application, package, control panel, or extension. In those instances where there are duplicate files, folders, or applications, the QuickCompare(tm) tool can be used to identify differences, and determine which can be deleted safely.

Spring Cleaning is meant to be used on a regular basis. The new System Snapshot(tm) provides a scan of the system showing changes that have occurred since the last scan. It makes it easy to see how the system has been changed by software updaters and installers. $49.99

Contact: Allume Systems Inc., 245 Westridge Dr., Watsonville, CA 95076, 800, 732-8881, 831 761-6200, , http://www.aladdinsys.com, e-mail: info@aladdinsys.com, fax: 831 761-6206.


Keyboard Maestro 2.0.3 (MAC)
Keyboard Maestro 2.0.3 is a macro program that enables the user to create keyboard shortcuts that can save significant time, reduce repetitive keyboarding, and boost productivity and efficiency. The user can create an unlimited number of macros, organize them in groups, and use them to execute virtually any sequence of keystrokes and mouse selections executed with the activation of the macro, or at a particular time, or when an application launches or quits, or under other conditions. The program also supports program and windows switching, Clipboard switching, and much more. $20

Contact: Stairways Software Pty Ltd., 510 601-5244, http://www.interarchy.com, e-mail: admin@interarchy.com.


PopChar X 2.2.1 (MAC)
PopChar X 2.2.1 one of the essential font utilities for digital publishers. It provides instant access to any character in any installed font. By virtue of its display of the complete complement of characters in every font, the user can quickly and easily find special characters or symbols, and insert them directly into the current document.

Once installed, the program is accessed by clicking on the small "P" which appears in the upper left corner of the menu bar. When selected a window opens showing a selection of characters from the preselected font. The program can automatically detect the font in use in many applications, and will display that font when PopChar is activated. Only a portion of the complement of characters appears. The user can elect to display control characters (for those fonts which have them), letters, digits, or accents. The setting of the display can be set individually for each font. The font menu is a dropdown, which the user can scroll to select a font. Recently used fonts appear at the top. The program supports HTML code and Unicode. $29.99

Contact: Macility, Softwarepark Hagenberg, Hauptstrasse 119, 4232 Hagenberg, Austria, +43 7236 3343 300, http://www.macility.com, e-mail: popchar-sales@macility.com, fax: +43 7236 3343 399.


SnagIt 7.2 (WIN)
SnagIt 7.2 is the most competent and full-featured screen capture utility available for any operating system. It provides over 40 different ways to capture screen real estate and activity, including screen region, scrolling window, screen icons, entire menu, cascading menus, realtime on-screen activity (video), text from any window, entire screen, and many more. It can capture in 23 file formats, or send to the Clipboard, printer, or e-mail. Captures can be edited using built-in tools, annotated, and manipulated with integrated image controls.

This new version adds features of particular interest to digital publishers. SnagIt IM enables users to send screenshots to colleagues over MSN Messenger and Windows Messenger. The new External Program Output provides the means for users to specify any of several programs (Adobe Photoshop, Jasc Paint Shop Pro, etc.) to be opened for additional editing of recently captured screens. The improved Web Capture now enables users to grab all of the images from a Web page or group of pages in a single step. $39.95

Contact: TechSmith Corp., 2405 Woodlake Drive, Okemos, MI 48864, 517 381-2300, http://www.techsmith.com, ftp: ftp.techsmith.com, e-mail: sales@techsmith.com, fax: 517 381-2336.


Data Rescue II (MAC)
Data Rescue II performs the seemingly impossible task of attempting, and usually succeeding, to recover files from drives that either will not mount or only operate partially. The program's objective is to recover data on the drive, not to fix the drive itself, as other utilities attempt to do. The process of trying to fix a drive can itself result in data loss, and ultimately the drive as well as its data, may not be salvaged.

The program is capable of recovering all kinds of files, and all parts of files, including icons, data, and folder hierarchy. One of the benefits of the program is that it leaves the source disk unmodified, preserving the data in its present form. It has been found to be effective even on drives that other utilities have failed to recover. The program works with Macintosh and PC drives, as well as iPods, digital cameras, and virtually any kind of digital media card or digital media.

The use of the software is simple using the Assistant Mode which prompts the user for the drive or volume to scan, the working volume (where files will be temporarily stored), and the scan method (such as Quick or Thorough). The scan will reveal a listing of all of the files that are recognized, and the user then selects which files to recover. The user can also employ an Expert Mode which provides more options. $99

Contact: Prosoft Engineering Inc., 4725 First St., Suite 270, Pleasanton, CA 94566, 866 428-3282, http://www.prosofteng.com.


Tune Tech for iPod (MAC)
Tune Tech for iPod is a utility that performs several important functions related to preserving the integrity of data stored on an iPod, either in the form of music or computer files. The program can perform a Backup, which is a precise clone of the iPod contents; Optimize the iPod hard drive so that drive access is faster and battery life is extended; Repair music files that play erratically or appear to be missing; Undelete files that were erased by mistake; Shred files so that they can not be recovered should an iPod be sold; Duplicate the contents of an iPod to another iPod when upgrading; Scan an iPod for possible media imperfections; and display Info about the iPod hard drive for possible troubleshooting. $59

Contact: Prosoft Engineering Inc., 4725 First St., Suite 270, Pleasanton, CA 94566, 866 428-3282, http://www.prosofteng.com.


Infix (WIN)
Infix is a PDF editor that redefines the process of editing PDF documents...making it far easier and more intuitive than ever. Infix treats text as paragraphs, rather than individual lines, making it possible to reflow and rejustify text. Text that runs around graphics maintains its original flow, and text columns can be linked, so that text can be edited across columns. The program provides its own H&J algorithm which is rated highly. Users can also change typefaces, sizes, and colors, all as easily as with a visual word processor. Images can also be changed easily.

The program enables users to reuse legacy documents, changing only those elements which need modification. This can be a significant time-saver, since the source document may not be available, and rebuilding the document from scratch would be considerably more time-consuming. In addition the program provides spell-checking in English (US and UK), Spanish, French, Italian, and German.

Bookmarks can be created automatically, or can be added, deleted or moved.

The image replacement features are impressive. The user can place any JPEG, PNG, or TIFF image, respecting the clipping path of the original image, if it has one. Existing or replacement images can be scaled, moved, and rotated.

The software is available for sale for $99, although casual users may be interested in the unique "Pay & Save" mode. In this mode the user edits their PDFs using the free demo version of the software, and then pays a one-time document charge to have the watermarks removed.

Contact: Iceni Technology Ltd., Norwich, England, 44 1603-474-831, http://www.iceni.com, e-mail: sales@iceni.com.



Digital Imaging Reviews

iWatermark (MAC)
iWatermark enables users to protect their digital images by applying a watermark, and by creating thumbnails. The program is non-destructive, leaving the original file intact, and generating new versions for distribution via the Web, e-mail, or disc.

The program supports a batch processing workflow wherein images can be resized at various quality levels, and watermarked using a variety of text effects such as engraved, drop shadow, and outline, in full transparency. The user selects the level of transparency, the rotation, and the location. The watermark can also be stepped and repeated across the entire surface of the image. The program supports PICT, BMP, TIFF, PNG, and JPEG. $20

Contact: Script Software, http://www.scriptsoftware.com, e-mail: info@scriptsoftware.com.



File Management Reviews

ChronoSync 3.1 (MAC)
ChronoSync 3.1 solves the problem of keeping file and folder parity between multiple computers, either two Macintoshes or a Mac and a PC. It supports intelligent syncs between the devices, at preset times, and according to a preset schedule. The user can execute sets of rules and exclusions so that no files are incorrectly overwritten nor deleted.

The program is intelligent, and recognizes which files or folders have been changed, moved, renamed, or moved. Only files that have changed since the last session are copied. Files are not replaced until they have been copied without errors, and verified. Logs are maintained which show exactly what has transpired during each transfer, and unattended sessions are confirmed with e-mail notifications.

The program can also be used as a back-up utility, and scheduled flexibly. Files that have been deleted or modified can be retained for a preset period in an archive, and can be restored on the basis of various criteria, such as version number or date. $30

Contact: Econ Technologies, Inc., POB 621801, Oviedo, FL 32762-1801, 407 365-4209, http://www.econtechnologies.com, e-mail: sales@econtechnologies.com, fax: 407 365-6714.



Database Reviews

DirecType (WIN)
DirecType is a unique and remarkable variable data application that enables users to use custom image fonts to personalize messages in ways never before possible. Unlike conventional personalization which uses conventional fonts to convey the idea of individualization, DirecType forms names and messages from image elements such as water droplets, flowers, or clouds, all elements that would be compatible with a given background image theme. The messages appear as if they are a natural part of an image since their very essence is compatible with the given scene, and the fact that they can be positioned on layers, either in front, behind, or in between other elements of the composition.

DirecType fonts, in PostScript or TrueType formats, are invisible and replaced with user-designed images that can be positioned, scaled, tilted, rotated, wordwrapped, and, of course, to match the 3D field of the host image, composed in perspective. The user can define multiple versions of each letter so that compositions look totally original, based, in part, on the randomness imposed by the software.

The use of DirecType can be experienced on-line with the creation of a variety of e-cards, in which the user can type in a message and see it rendered immediately on-screen within the context of the chosen image. This capability can be added to a user's Web site and can be seen at http://directype.org/products-en/ecards. A visit to this site is well worth the effort.

The software is available in a number of versions. DirecType Basic, including DirecType Designer, provides the features required for generating DirecType images. The DirecType Professional version, with the DirecType Creator module, supports the automatic generation of individualized images from a standard address database.

DirecType works with popular VDP software, such as PrintShop Mail and XMPie. It produces the input that they can use to generate personalized messages.

Demo software is available at http://directype.org/software-en/demosoftware. The software is available worldwide through a group of resellers, which are listed at http://directype.org/partner-en/direcreseller.

Contact: sdz Direct World, Sächsisches, Digitaldruck Zentrum GmbH, Tharandter Straße 31-33, 01159 Dresden, Germany, (0351) 4203-111/-182, http://www.sdz-directworld.de, e-mail: info@sdz-directworld.de, fax: (0351) 4203-194.


FileMaker Pro 8 (Advanced) (MAC/WIN)
FileMaker Pro 8 Advanced is the latest, and most significant, release of the FileMaker database application. This version, which is the development environment for FileMaker developers and database professionals, provides full support for designing, developing, debugging, troubleshooting, and maintaining and modifying sophisticated databases. Of particular significance to digital publishers are the new features that extend FileMaker's capability beyond holding and organizing data, to facilitate its publication and distribution.

FileMaker has a great reputation in the field of database publishing, and has a particularly significant following amongst Macintosh users, which tend to comprise much of the professional publishing market. It has earned that reputation based on its ease of use, its powerful feature set, and its flexibility in importing and exporting data.

The most significant new features in FileMaker Pro 8 are:

• PDF Maker: FileMaker users can now export FileMaker database records in PDF format and maintain the look of a given layout. The PDF, which is rendered through the Datalogics Adobe PDF Library, provides users with control over the properties of the PDFs, including security and password protection. FileMaker is the first mainstream application to license the Adobe PDF Library. Users can create a PDF file from the currently viewed record, all records being browsed, or even a blank record. A blank PDF record can be used for individuals to fill in by hand.

• Excel Maker: In addition to its legacy capability of importing Excel files directly, users can now save records in Excel workbook format. • Fast Send: Users can now attach the contents of any field to an e-mail message by placing the cursor in that field and clicking "Export Field Contents."

• Fast Match: Locating matching information has been simplified and sped up by enabling users to select information from the current field and with a single mouse click, find all matching records.

• Tab Control: Users can create a layout with multiple tabs, with each tab including fields from a different table. This tab control is also accessible from FileMaker Pro 8 databases that are published to the Web.• E-mail Merge: With this new feature, users can send personalized information to one or many contacts composed of information from a database. It can be accomplished automatically, and without the need to create a script.

• Relationships Graph: Improvements to the relationships graph make it easier to create and mange tables and their associated relationships. Users can now quickly duplicate tables and their relationships.

• Calendar Drop-downs: Date entry is simplified with the use of a Calendar drop-down that can be added to any field, including those published to the Web.

• Visual Spell Checker: Misspelled words are now underlined in realtime allowing the user to correct them.

Features specific to the FileMaker Pro 8 Advanced version are:

• Custom Menus: Users can customize their database menus to add, rename, or delete menu items or add and delete entire menus.

• Custom Tooltips: User input can be simplified through the addition of Tooltips which are helpful hints that appear when a user does a mouse-over an item.

• Script Debugger: Problem areas can be spotted faster by viewing scripts, step-by-step, as they are executing.

• Reuse Fields/Tables: Fields, tables, scripts, and script steps can be imported, copied and pasted, within or across tables.

The program supports a wide variety of image, video, and audio formats. These include:

• Image Formats: EPS, FPX, JPG, JP2 (MAC), MAC (MAC), PDF (MAC), PSD, PCS (MAC), PCT, PNG, QT, SGI, TGA, SGI, TIF, BMP, and WMF (WIN).

• Video: AVI, Cubic VR, FLC, KAR, Flash 5, MPEG, QTM, MOV, QT VR, and VR.

• Audio: AIF, AU, MID, MP3, SF2, SND, and WAV.

A free trial version is available at http://www.filemakertrial.com/nskto/form/entry.aspx?ovmkt=O5M3PJVLTCEPRQV5K4EB4VMF24. FileMaker Pro 8 is $299, FileMaker Pro 8 Advanced is $499.

Contact: FileMaker, Inc., 5201 Patrick Henry Drive, Box 58168, Santa Clara, CA 95052-8168, 800 325-2747, 408 987-7000, 408 727-8227, http://www.filemaker.com.


Panorama V (MAC)
Panorama V is a sophisticated (it comes with over 3000 pages of documentation) database program that differs from most others in that it is RAM-based, meaning that when a Panorama database is opened, it resides entirely in the computer's RAM. By holding the data in memory, the application does not need to access the hard drive, except to save. All other operations, including inputting, sorting, editing, and searching, take place in high-speed RAM. In addition, the structure of a Panorama database is such that it is significantly smaller in size than comparative database structures.

A Panorama database is table-structured, much like a spreadsheet. After field names are entered in the database the user can begin immediately to enter data, which then appears within the table. The user can create forms for inputting data only of a particular type (not filling in all fields), or to approximate paper form input, or to simulate another workflow. A variety of drawing tools are provided for this purpose.

The program provides a full set of data analysis tools, and includes a useful wizard for calculating statistics. Existing data from a variety of sources can be imported, and field arrangement can be reconfigured during import. Data can also be exported in tab or comma delimited form to be used in other applications, such as spreadsheets.

The program integrates very smoothly with the Internet, accessing data from on-line databases and directories, and performing services such as displaying maps for any US address, verifying USPS addresses, looking up white pages phone numbers and addresses, tracking FedEx shipments, and much more. In addition, the program supports phone dialing and Vonage VOIP.

Digital publishers will appreciate the variety of data types that the program supports, including images, movies, and sounds. Likewise, the automation features are very impressive, including a Step-by-Step Recorder that writes programs automatically, and simplifies repetitive operations. The application supports program triggers, a program editor, control flow options (if/else/endif, case, goto), customizable menu bars and dialogs, an extensible program language, and much more.

A Windows version, Panorama 4.0 is also available. A demo version is available at http://www.provue.com/Downloads/Panorama5MacDownload.html. $299

Contact: ProVUE Development, 18411 Gothard, Unit A, Huntington Beach, CA 92648, 714 841-7779, 800 966-7878, http://www.provue.com, e-mail: sales@provue.com, fax: 714 841-1479.



Hardware Reviews

IOGEAR USB 2.0 Hub & Card Reader (MAC/WIN)
IOGEAR USB 2.0 Hub & Card Reader is an innovative peripheral device that combines a 6-port USB 2.0 hub with a 12-in-4 memory card reader/writer. The space-saving device can be positioned flat, or upright with the accompanying stand. The memory card reader/writer provides four slots that can be used simultaneously to transfer data between or among any of 12 different card types (CompactFlash I/II, CompactFlash USB, CompactFlash Ultra, Micro Drives, Memory Stick, Memory Stick Switch, Memory Stick Pro, Magic Gate Memory Stick, Magic Gate Memory Stick Duo (requires a Duo adapter), Multimedia Card (MMC), SecureDigital (SD), and Smart Media.). LED indicator lights confirm card activity, and power status. The device, which comes with a three-year warranty, is hot-swappable and plug and play. The package includes the hub, power adapter, and 6' USB cable. $49.95

Contact: ATEN Technology, Inc., IOGEAR, 23 Hubble Dr., Irvine, CA 92618, 866-9-IOGEAR (866-946-4327), 949-453-8782, http://www.iogear.com, fax: 949-453-8785.


IOGEAR USB 2.0 MiniHub (MAC/WIN)
IOGEAR USB 2.0 MiniHub provides 7 ports in a low profile form factor that can be used in horizontal or vertical mode (with the included stand). The large variety of USB devices (printers, digital/still cameras, scanners, etc.) makes it essential to extend the limited connectivity available on most computers. This device makes a smart replacement for USB 1.0 hubs which are not only slower, but usually have fewer ports. The package includes a 6' USB cable and DC power supply. $29.95

Contact: ATEN Technology, Inc., IOGEAR, 23 Hubble Dr., Irvine, CA 92618, 866-9-IOGEAR (866-946-4327), 949-453-8782, http://www.iogear.com, fax: 949-453-8785.


Earthmate GPS LT-20 (WIN)
The DeLorme GPS LT-20 is a remarkable device that converts a Windows laptop into a fully featured GPS system with interactive mapping of the entire United States, with more than four million places of interest.

The Earthmate, little larger than a pack of matches, plugs into a laptop USB port. The cable is sufficiently long so that the GPS unit can be positioned on the top of a car's dashboard or on the windshield. The Earthmate works in concert with the DeLorme Street Atlas USA 2006 CD-ROM which supports address-to-address routing, similar to built-in automobile GPS systems selling for more than $1000. The unit shows the user's exact location on-screen, and provide voice output of driving directions as well as a split-screen showing both overview and detail maps. The system can output printed directions, along with places of interest, for any destination.

Most car built-in systems have small displays. Laptops almost always have larger screens, providing a better view of map details, and showing a potentially larger geographic area. Because a laptop is larger, its use will require a passenger to operate it so that the driver is not distracted.

The GPS satellite service is free. The GPS satellites are the property of the U.S. Department of Defense, and approximately 28 of them make one complete orbit around the earth every twelve hours, at an altitude of about 12,000 miles. The system, developed in order that the military have precise location accuracy, especially for submarines carrying nuclear missiles, reportedly cost $12 billion. The satellites interpret their locations from about 25 ground control stations located throughout the U.S., and share that information with other satellites in the system. The GPS unit, which can only receive radio signalsÉit can't send them, collects the signals from two or more satellites in its range, and establishes its fixed position. The position on the display map changes in realtime as the individual, car, boat, or other means of conveyance carrying the GPS system, moves.

The Earthmate has a single multi-mode LED which glows red when it is acquiring satellite data, yellow when it as a 2-D satellite fix, and green when it has sufficient satellite data to provide a full 3-D location fix. The unit uses a low-power RF chip set and gets all of its power from its USB connection.

Digital publishers will be interested both with the depth of mapping detail and the mural map output capability (3 x 3 pages).

If you have never used a GPS system the DeLorme system will be a delightful surprise. If you have used a GPS system you will be impressed with the capabilities of this low-cost solution.

The Earthmate GPS LT-20 along with the DeLorme Street Atlas USA 2006 software sells for only $99.95.

Contact: DeLorme, Two DeLorme Drive, POB 298, Yarmouth, ME 04096, 800 452-5931, 207 846-7000, http://www.delorme.com, e-mail: info@delorme.com, fax back: 207 865-7083, fax: 800 575-2244.



Instruction/Learning Reviews

Adobe Photoshop CS2 Fundamental & Advanced Techniques (MAC/WIN)
Adobe Photoshop CS2 Fundamental & Advanced Techniques is an excellent training program running over 26 hours, conducted by Photoshop expert Julieanne Kost. The two DVD set, covers 30 fundamental topics, and 27 Advanced topics, all presented with professional flare, entertaining delivery, and the knowledgeable instruction of one of Adobe's most sought after evangelists. The Extras CD-ROM, a $49 value included for free, consists of several additional advanced techniques, and the practice files.

The techniques are presented in a logical order for those who would view them sequentially, are are also viewable as stand-alone presentations covering such important topics as Camera Raw Basics, Liquify, Typography, Automated Tasks, Photo Restoration, The Pen Tool, and Complex Actions.

The presentations consist of narrated screen movies which demonstrate the processes, methods, and techniques that are both fundamental and of an advanced nature. Julieanne Kost is an excellent instructor, who is not only very clear and easy to understand, but explains each operation, why she is performing it, and what she has done (keys pressed, etc.) to accomplish it. She is the consummate presenter.

The package is a great aid for anyone learning the software, both novice and pro alike. Users can follow along and perform the same operations in their copy of Photoshop CS2.

This is one of the fastest, and most enjoyable, ways to get up-to-speed quickly with Photoshop CS2. In addition, the discs remain as an at-hand reference for review or for learning new techniques. We learned many new things while watching the lessons, and, at the end of each lesson, looked forward to the next. Each DVD is available separately for $159, or together, with the Extras disc, for $299

Contact: Software Cinema, 13223 Black Mountain Rd., 1-260, San Diego, CA 92129, 858 413-4100, http://www.software-cinema.com, e-mail: info@software-cinema.com, fax: 858 748-6014.


DMTS Inside Final Cut Express (MAC/WIN)
DMTS Inside Final Cut Express is a three-hour training program conducted by video pro Noah Todd. The DVD is divided into two parts: Section I deals with the basics of the application (set-up, video capture, audio, etc.), and Section II deals with the production of an actual video project. The program consists of 17 lessons and the files necessary to complete the project. $49

Contact: Magnet Media, Inc., 104 West 14th St., 5th Fl., New York, NY 10011, 877 606-5012, http://www.digitalmediatraining.com.


DMTS Inside After Effects 6 (MAC/WIN)
DMTS Inside After Effects 6 provides over four hours of video-based instruction covering the operation of this Adobe application. The 25 lessons, presented by professional Composite Artist Jürgen Miller, includes a project consisting of a television show opener. The learner can follow the on-screen presentations, and using the provided project files, complete the project. $99

Contact: Magnet Media, Inc., 104 West 14th St., 5th Fl., New York, NY 10011, 877 606-5012, http://www.digitalmediatraining.com.



Specialized Output Reviews

ImageCaster (MAC)
ImageCaster is an easy to use, yet powerful, webcam application. Although a camera is usually used as the source of the images, the user can pull images from a file or a URL. Images, regardless of their source, can be saved to a hard drive or uploaded to a Web site via FTP. Web images can be replaced at a user-selected interval, or saved in series to playback in a QuickTime movie.

Users can apply custom overlays consisting of text messages, graphics, and time and date stamps. The user can scale and place graphics and adjust their transparency. Sensor zones can be added to the images so that images are captured only when motion activity is detected in those areas.

Schedule flexibility is built-in, allowing the user to determine how images will be broadcast, at what frequency, and with what overlay messages. Multiple ImageCaster documents can be created, and scheduled differently. Like all Econ Technologies software the user need only buy it once...updates are free. $30

Contact: Econ Technologies, Inc., POB 621801, Oviedo, FL 32762-1801, 407 365-4209, http://www.econtechnologies.com, e-mail: sales@econtechnologies.com, fax: 407 365-6714.


4D 2004 Standard Edition (MAC/WIN)
4D 2004 Standard Edition is a cross-platform relational database application for publishing to print and the Web. Its sophisticated programming language and report generation capabilities have attracted a community of developers to produce their database products using the 4th Dimension runtime engine. Direct output options include Printer, Text file, 4D View, 4D Chart, and HTML file, as well as direct export to Microsoft Word or Excel.

Digital publishers will appreciate that the 4th Dimension Standard Edition, although it is a single-user version, includes the 4D runtime for application distribution. This means that not only can users develop their databases using 4D, but that they can produce runtime versions, in addition to publishing printed output and Web editions. Users can apply the powerful 4D tools and design options to produce interfaces that not only assist them in gathering and inputting data, but in deploying it as well.

Users can leverage existing data, importing spreadsheet data directly, as well as data stored in comma- or tab-delimited format. Users create tables and define fields into which data can be manually input or brought in from other sources such as ODBC. The creation and utilization of databases is supported in three 4D work environments. In the Design Environment the user designs and develops the database. In the User Environment the data is entered and managed. In the Custom Menus Environment the user creates application-specific menus and layouts. Various parts of the design process are supported by wizards which prompt the user for input and choices in a step-by-step fashion.

Data entry is streamlined through the use of Choice Lists that present a list of input options that are specific for a given field. A field entitled "coin composition," for example, might have a choice list composed of "copper, silver, gold." The user can easily select from the list rather than manually keyboard the entry, saving time and eliminating typographic errors.

The Methods Editor is used to create 4D "Methods," which are instruction sets that execute an action or series of actions. Through the use of the Editor users can define Methods, test them, and alter them as needed. The functionality of databases can be materially affected through the application of Objects, which are predefined 3rd party components that add capabilities, such as specific search features. Objects are maintained in Object Libraries wherein they can be dragged and dropped onto 4D applications, either during the development process or runtime.

4D provides a rich set of design capabilities that can be used to affect the appearance of forms as well as provide access to functionality, such as printing, and navigation. Digital publishers can create very attraction and useful data entry screens and report formats.

The 4D Beginner's Guide is available at http://www.4d.com/support/beginners_corner/beginners_guide.html. A library of free video tutorials can be accessed at http://www.4d.com/movies/. Several free 4D databases, which showcase database capabilities, are available at http://www.4d.com/products/examples_wow.html. A variety of training options, including a free one-hour on-line class, can be accessed at http://www.4d.com/training/. $349

Contact: 4D, Inc., 3031 Tisch Way, Suite 900, San Jose, CA 95128, 408 557-4600, http://www.4D.com, http://www.masterwriter.com, e-mail: masterwriter@masterwriter.com, fax: 408 557-4645.



Digital Video Reviews

PYRO Professional (WIN)
PYRO Professional is a full solution package that bundles a high-end digital video capture card with Adobe pro applications for producing quality video presentations on DVD or other publishing platforms.

The PYRO 1394 DV OHCI Host Controller is acknowledged as one of the best digital video interfaces available. It supports the direct capture of high quality digital video from any DV camcorder, as well as the connection of external FireWire data storage drives. The card includes three 6-pin FireWire ports, supporting transfer speeds of up to 400 Mb/sec., and comes with a 6' DV cable to connect the card to a DV camcorder.

The software bundle is impressive, and includes three professional Adobe production solutions. First is Adobe Premiere Pro, one of the leading realtime nonlinear video and audio editing applications. Second is Adobe Encore DVD, which supports flexible production of polished DVDs, with easy import of content and construction of menus. Third is Adobe Audition for professional audio mixing, editing, mastering, and effects processing.

This mix of sophisticated hardware and software provides a ready-to-run studio for professional audio and video production and DVD publishing. The package is an outstanding value. $499.95

Contact: ADS Technologies, 12627 Hidden Creek Way, Cerritos, CA 90703,Ê800 888-5244, 562 926-1928, http://www.adstech.com, fax: 562 926-0518.


Flip4Mac MWV Studio Pro (MAC)
Flip4Mac MWV Studio Pro extends the capabilities of several QuickTime-based applications so that they can directly import, export and play Windows Media files. The prevalence of Windows Media files makes this a much valued feature.

The available versions of the application include the WMV Player ($9.99) to play Windows Media files in QuickTime Player; WMV Player Pro ($49) to import Windows Media files for editing in programs such as Final Cut Pro; WMV Studio ($99) to import, export, and play Windows Media files; and WMV Studio Pro ($179) comprising all of the aforementioned products plus Hi-Def encoding capability.

The WMV Player enables QuickTime Player users to open and play Windows Media files, without the need for a separate player. WMV Player Pro supports the importation of Windows Media files into digital video editing software, such as iMovie, Final Cut Express HD, and Sorenson Squeeze 4.1. The WMV Studio and Studio Pro versions support the export of Windows Media files from virtually any QuickTime-based Macintosh application, with the Pro version supporting high definition.

Contact: Telestream, Inc. 848 Gold Flat Road, Suite 1, Nevada City, CA 95959, 877-257-6245, 530 470-1300, http:// www.telestream.net, e-mail: info@flip4mac.com.


Kinoma Producer (MAC/WIN)
Kinoma Producer enables users of supported PDAs to convert digital media files (video, audio, still images, and animation) residing on their Macintosh and Windows computers for playback on their handhelds. The software, which requires QuickTime, provides an easy-to-use interface in which the user selects the specifications for the output (which can be saved as a preset), the files to be converted, and the export location. The user maintains control over the audio and video encoding parameters and the video layout. A wide range of settings is available. Converted files are transferred to the handheld device either during a HotSync operation, or by copying them to external storage, such as a Memory Stick. $29.99

Contact: Kinoma, Inc., P.O. Box 4177, Menlo Park, CA 94026, http://www.kinoma.com, e-mail: info@kinoma.com, Fax: 650 618-1627.


Kinoma Player 3 EX (MAC/WIN)
Kinoma Player 3 EX is a multimedia player for presenting high quality video, CD quality audio, and hi-res photos, on Palm-powered devices. The software features MPEG-4 video compression which supports up to seven hours of high quality video on a single 1GB memory card. The player uses Advanced Audio Compression (ACC) for storing up to 22 hours of CD quality audio on a 1GB memory card. Most popular digital media file formats are supported, including .MP4, .3GP and .3G2 (photo formats used on camera phones), .JPEG, QuickTime, and Kinoma movie file format. $19.99

Contact: Kinoma, Inc., P.O. Box 4177, Menlo Park, CA 94026, http://www.kinoma.com, e-mail: info@kinoma.com, Fax: 650 618-1627.


Flip4Mac Studio Pro (MAC)
Flip4Mac Studio Pro is a QuickTime plug-in that works from any QuickTime-based application. It solves the problem of using and re-using content stored in Windows Media format. It enables the user to export files in Windows Media file format by using an application's File>Export option; to open a WMV file from the QuickTime player, or other QuickTime applications; and to edit WMV files if they are imported into a NLE, such as Final Cut Pro or iMovie. Free trial versions are available at
http://www.flip4mac.com/buy.htm. $179

Contact: Telestream, Inc. 848 Gold Flat Road, Suite 1, Nevada City, CA 95959, 877-257-6245, 530 470-1300, http:// www.telestream.net, e-mail: info@flip4mac.com.



Book Reviews

802.11 Wireless Networks: The Definitive Guide, Second Edition
Gast, Matthew S.

The complete and essential guide for those charged with deploying wireless networks and maintaining them. Network administrators will find it invaluable for its information on planning, architecture, and network security.

Available for on-line ordering at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D0596100523

0596100523 630 pp. $44.95

Contact: O'Reilly & Associates, Inc., 1005 Gravenstein Highway North, Sebastopol, CA 95472, 800 998-9938, 707 829-0515, http://www.oreilly.com, e-mail: info@oreilly.com, fax: 707 829-0104.


Adobe Creative Suite 2 Classroom in a Book
Adobe

The official Adobe hands-on training program for learning the Creative Suite 2, Premium or Standard versions. The full-color book leads the reader, step-by-step, through the process of completing a series of lessons that are provided on the accompanying cross-platform CD-ROM. Each chapter ends with a series of review questions and their answers.

Available for on-line ordering at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D0321349822

0321349822 306 pp. $44.99

Contact: Adobe Press, Prentice Hall, 113 Sylvan Ave., Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632


Adobe Illustrator CS2 Classroom in a Book
Adobe

Through a series of 16 lessons, users acquire the basic and intermediate skills necessary to use Adobe Illustrator CS2 effectively and efficiently. Although the lessons are arranged sequentially, with each new lesson based on those which have preceded, the user can elect only to complete specific lessons based on individual need. The accompanying cross-platform CD-ROM contains all of the lessons.

Available for on-line ordering at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D0321321839

0321321839 454 pp. $49.99

Contact: Adobe Press, Prentice Hall, 113 Sylvan Ave., Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632


Adobe InDesign CS2 @ Work
Indiano, Cate Brosseau

A project-based guide to learning Adobe InDesign CS2. The reader, with access to project files from the publisher's Web site, is led through several projects that can be useful to a working professional. These include a product sheet, poster, letterhead and envelope, brochure, newsletter, product catalog, order form, annual report, and more.

Available for on-line ordering at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D067232802X

067232802X 320 pp. $29.99

Contact: Sams, 201 West 103rd St., Indianapolis, IN 46290.


Adobe InDesign CS2 Bible
Gruman, Galen

This weighty tome, peppered with hundreds of illustrations, covers virtually every aspect of InDesign CS2, with the thoroughness of an official software manual. The content is logically arranged for either learning the program in sequence, or referencing specific capabilities. The author includes instructions and suggestions for those moving from QuarkXPress. A companion Web site is provided at http://www.InDesignControl.com.

Available for on-line ordering at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D0764588125

0764588125 896 $44.99

Contact: Wiley, Professional/Trade Group, 111 River St., Hoboken, NJ 07030, http://www.wiley.com.


Art of Photoshop, The: CS2 Edition
Giordan, Daniel

A master artist guide to implementing, step-by-step, many of the most useful features of Adobe Photoshop CS2. The author provides a firm foundation in the elements that create interesting images, how Photoshop was used to create sample images, and what steps were used to complete the images. The accompanying CD-ROM contains both the original source images, the finished images, and a variety of useful tools.

Available for on-line ordering at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D0672328100

0672328100 303 pp. $49.99

Contact: Sams, 201 West 103rd St., Indianapolis, IN 46290.


Art of Project Management, The
Berkun, Scott

A veteran Microsoft software project engineer for ten years, Scott Berkun, writes from experience, providing a three-dimensional view of the art, as well as the process of project management. Mr. Berkun shows how human attributes, such as inspirational leadership, creativity, team-building, and other elements contribute toward the success of a project.

Available for on-line ordering at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D0596007868

0596007868 488 pp. $39.95

Contact: O'Reilly & Associates, Inc., 1005 Gravenstein Highway North, Sebastopol, CA 95472, 800 998-9938, 707 829-0515, http://www.oreilly.com, e-mail: info@oreilly.com, fax: 707 829-0104.


Asterisk: The Future of Telephony
Van Meggelen, Jim; Jared Smith, Leif Madsen

Asterisk is open source telephony software that supports Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), and runs on Linux. It, or at least the concept of an open source telephony system, is likely to change the telecommunications industry in a major way. The book shows readers how to install, configure, and integrate Asterisk with an existing phone system.

A sample chapter, Chapter 5, "Dialplan Basics," can be viewed on-line at http://www.oreilly.com/catalog/asterisk/chapter/index.html

Available for on-line ordering at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D0596009623

0596009623 380 pp. $39.95

Contact: O'Reilly & Associates, Inc., 1005 Gravenstein Highway North, Sebastopol, CA 95472, 800 998-9938, 707 829-0515, http://www.oreilly.com, e-mail: info@oreilly.com, fax: 707 829-0104.


Creating a Database in FileMaker Pro 8: Visual QuickProject Guide
Schwartz, Steve

An unintimidating, easy-to-follow guide to creating an investment database that flexes the capabilities of FileMaker Pro 8. The user is led gently through the step-by-step process, with a minimum of text and a maximum of full-color graphics, to produce a database project that has as its goal a practical use.

Available for on-line ordering at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D0321414837

0321414837 144 pp. $12.99

Contact: Peachpit Press, 1249 8th St., Berkeley, CA 94710, 800 283-9444, http://www.peachpit.com, fax: 510 524-2221.


Design and Deploy web sites with Macromedia Dreamweaver MX 2004 and Contribute 3
Lowery, Joseph

A course in a book consisting of lessons that enable the reader to apply Macromedia Dreamweaver and Contribute 3 to design, deploy, and maintain a Web site. The accompanying cross-platform CD-ROM holds all of the lesson files as well as the Dreamweaver extension: FlashPaper Viewer, and Macromedia Contribute 3.

Available for on-line ordering at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D032128884X

032128884X 256 pp. $44.99

Contact: Macromedia Press, 2414 Sixth St., Berkeley, CA 94710


Digital Video Production Cookbook
Kenworthy, Chris

A fascinating look at insiders secrets for creating special video effects. With the use of many full-color photos, the author reveals how production tricks can be applied to solve 100 problems that only professionals are usually able to cope with. The book is divided into these major sections: lighting effects (mirror light, silhouettes, horror lighting, etc.), camera illusions (pull-focus, window illusions, frame within a frame, etc.), camera movement (fake dolly, walk-in, hand crane, etc.), editing illusions (whip cut, slow motion, photograph freeze, etc.), production effects (moving lights, blood impact, water camera, etc.), visual effects (bluescreen, laser bolts, film look, etc.), safe stunts (leaping across a big gap, punches, breaking down a door, etc.), advanced effects (computer screen projections, wall projections, shadows on a wall, time travel without an actor, etc.), night shoots (parked car, rain car shot, lighting a street, etc.), weather (movie rain, fake snow, desert sun, etc.), sound (impact sounds, off-screen sound, science-fiction sounds, etc.), and make-up (aging, youth, bruising, etc.).

Available for on-line ordering at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D0596100310

0596100310 192 pp. $29.95

Contact: O'Reilly & Associates, Inc., 1005 Gravenstein Highway North, Sebastopol, CA 95472, 800 998-9938, 707 829-0515, http://www.oreilly.com, e-mail: info@oreilly.com, fax: 707 829-0104.


FileMaker Pro 8: The Missing Manual
Coffey, Geoff; Susan Prosser

The authors have put together a book with both broad coverage and deep content, yet have written it in a non-technical and non-threatening manner. It is the perfect book for people who realize that they are only scratching the surface of the highly sophisticated FileMaker Pro 8 program, and want to learn how to use it more effectively and efficiently. The book is a wonderful complement to a great program.

Available for on-line ordering at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D0596005792

0596005792 768 pp. $34.95

Contact: O'Reilly & Associates, Inc., 1005 Gravenstein Highway North, Sebastopol, CA 95472, 800 998-9938, 707 829-0515, http://www.oreilly.com, e-mail: info@oreilly.com, fax: 707 829-0104.


GarageBand 2: The Missing Manual
Pogue, David

An expert's inside view of Apple's powerful music studio application. The author is both an accomplished musician, with Broadway experience, and one of the most well-known Macintosh advocates. He provides the information necessary for readers to record and edit their own music, publish it in various forms, and use it in various ways, such as for soundtracks for iMovie, iPhoto, and iDVD.

Available for on-line ordering at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D0596100353

0596100353 172 pp. $24.95

Contact: Peachpit Press, 1249 8th St., Berkeley, CA 94710, 800 283-9444, http://www.peachpit.com, fax: 510 524-2221.


Head First HTML with CSS & XHTML
Freeman, Elisabeth; Eric Freeman

This hefty tome, referred to as "a brain-friendly guide," is chock full of step-by-step exercises that introduce HTML concepts in a non-threatening and fun manner. The book is a joy to read, and the full-color illustrations make it easy to follow along.

Available for on-line ordering at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D059610197X

059610197X 694 pp. $34.95

Contact: O'Reilly & Associates, Inc., 1005 Gravenstein Highway North, Sebastopol, CA 95472, 800 998-9938, 707 829-0515, http://www.oreilly.com, e-mail: info@oreilly.com, fax: 707 829-0104.


How to Use Adobe Photoshop CS2 Visually in Full Color
Giordan, Daniel

This task-oriented book has been beautifully designed to illustrate clearly the steps involved in completing dozens of Photoshop CS2 techniques. The book has its own set of visual icons that lead the reader through each process, with mouse-clicks, and keyboard sequences displayed unambiguously. The "Hot-To Hints," associated with each task provide time-saving tips and production suggestions. The book is fascinating to thumb through.

Available for on-line ordering at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D0672327511

0672327511 310 pp. $29.99

Contact: Sams, 201 West 103rd St., Indianapolis, IN 46290.


iLife '05, The Missing Manual
Pogue, David

This full-color edition delves into the operation and use of Apple's suite of multimedia applications, comprised of iTunes, iPhoto, iMovie HD, iDVD, and GarageBand 2. The author, known for his humor and clear style, provides the reader with the in-depth documentation that Apple left out of the box.

Available for on-line ordering at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D0596100361

0596100361 744 pp. $29.95

Contact: O'Reilly & Associates, Inc., 1005 Gravenstein Highway North, Sebastopol, CA 95472, 800 998-9938, 707 829-0515, http://www.oreilly.com, e-mail: info@oreilly.com, fax: 707 829-0104.


iMovie HD & iDVD 5: The Missing Manual
Pogue, David

The author, a luminary in the Macintosh community, and an Emmy-award wining CBS News correspondent, has crammed this full-color book with the essential information necessary to get the full benefit of these applications. Apple provides not documentation other than its Help system, which is not sufficient to provide the instructions on accessing all of the capabilities of the software.

The author goes beyond the software, giving the reader a complete course on video production, including film technique, editing tricks, DVD production, and finding an audience.

Available for on-line ordering at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D0596100337

0596100337 516 pp. $29.95

Contact: Peachpit Press, 1249 8th St., Berkeley, CA 94710, 800 283-9444, http://www.peachpit.com, fax: 510 524-2221.


Internet Yellow Pages 2006 Edition
Kraynak, Joe

A comprehensive directory of Web resources organized in a thumb-indexed book. Thousands of sites are listed by category, with star ratings, descriptions, and icon identification of those deemed to be kid friendly, those which process online transactions, those which are notable for their ease of navigation, and those considered "The Best of the Best."

Available for on-line ordering at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D0789734087

0789734087 1108 $19.99

Contact: Que Corporation, 11711 North College Ave., Carmel, IN 46032, http://www.quecorp.com.


Mac OS X Tiger in a Nutshell
Lester, Andy; Chris Stone, Chuck Toporek, and Jason McIntosh

A complete guide for the Mac OS X Tiger user who wants to control the operating system using Unix. The authors present the most comprehensive coverage of Mac OS X Unix commands anywhere, with a complete introduction to using the Terminal application, the Mac OS X Unix command-line interface.

Information about the book, its authors, and sample extracts can be found at http://www.oreilly.com/catalog/mactigerian/.

Available for on-line ordering at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D0596009437

0596009437 528 pp. $39.95

Contact: O'Reilly & Associates, Inc., 1005 Gravenstein Highway North, Sebastopol, CA 95472, 800 998-9938, 707 829-0515, http://www.oreilly.com, e-mail: info@oreilly.com, fax: 707 829-0104.


Mac OS X Unwired
Negrino, Tom; Dori Smith

This handy, compact guide contains the information necessary to work wirelessly in the home, office, or on the road. The authors provide complete connectivity instructions for using WiFi, selecting cellular connection plans, wireless security, and much more.

Available for on-line ordering at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D0596005083

0596005083 207 pp. $24.95

Contact: O'Reilly & Associates, Inc., 1005 Gravenstein Highway North, Sebastopol, CA 95472, 800 998-9938, 707 829-0515, http://www.oreilly.com, e-mail: info@oreilly.com, fax: 707 829-0104.


Mac OS X: The Missing Manual, Tiger Edition
Pogue, David

This is the must-have book for every Macintosh OS X 10.4 user. David Pogue is the consummate writer of all things Mac-related. He expertly guides the reader through the features of the OS, imparting advice, uncovering secrets, and sharing shortcuts.

Inevitably there will be some situation, some problem, some question related to Mac OS X that will arise... the solution or the answer will likely be in this book.

Available for on-line ordering at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D0596009410

0596009410 864 pp. $29.95

Contact: O'Reilly & Associates, Inc., 1005 Gravenstein Highway North, Sebastopol, CA 95472, 800 998-9938, 707 829-0515, http://www.oreilly.com, e-mail: info@oreilly.com, fax: 707 829-0104.


Macintosh iLife '05, The
Heid, Jim

The most immersive learning experience available for learning about, and how to use, the suite of digital hub applications that Apple refers to as "iLife '05." The book is arranged in two-page spreads, each self-contained and dealing with a single tutorial or set of tips. The accompanying DVD provides approximately three hours of instruction, and also includes sample projects and other digital assets. The supporting Web site, provides updated information and more. Quite a effort!

Available for on-line ordering at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D0321335376

0321335376 344 pp. $34.99

Contact: Peachpit Press, 1249 8th St., Berkeley, CA 94710, 800 283-9444, http://www.peachpit.com, fax: 510 524-2221.


Macromedia Dreamweaver 8 Recipes
Lowery, Joseph; Eric Ott

This "cookbook" provides seven step-by-step recipes for applying dynamic, data-driven capabilities to a Web site through the use of Macromedia Dreamweaver 8. The accompanying cross-platform CD-ROM includes all of the files, databases, templates, and code necessary to implement each of the solutions. Among the application recipes are: Conference Room Scheduler, Employee Lookup, In/Out Dashboard, Journal, Mail Merge, Time Cards, and User Login.

Available for on-line ordering at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D0321393910

0321393910 504 pp. $49.99

Contact: Macromedia Press, 2414 Sixth St., Berkeley, CA 94710


My Job went to India (And All I Got Was This Lousy Book)
Fowler, Chad

The movement of high tech jobs to India and other foreign countries is on-going and accelerating. The author provides 52 ideas on how the reader can make him or herself invaluable, how to develop the right skills, and how to market yourself effectively.

Available for on-line ordering at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D0976694018

0976694018 185 pp. $19.95

Contact: The Pragmatic Programmers, P.O.B. 293325, Lewisville, TX 75029-3325; 9650 Strickland Road, Suite 103-255, Raleigh, NC 27615; 800 699-7764, http://www.pragmaticprogrammer.com.


Organize Your Work Day...In No Time
McCorry, K.J.

A guide to getting control over time and task by a professional organizer and member of the National Association of Professional Organizers. The author leads the reader through an understanding of what needs to organized and then suggests the tools and methods that will enable it to be so.

Available for on-line ordering at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D0789733331

0789733331 219 pp. $16.95

Contact: Que Corporation, 11711 North College Ave., Carmel, IN 46032, http://www.quecorp.com.


Palm and Treo Hacks
MacHaffie, Scott

The author provides insider tips and tools for extending the functionality of Palm OS hand-held PDAs. Anyone with such a device can extend its usefulness and productivity using content from the book. A selection of sample hacks can be found at http://www.oreilly.com/catalog/palmtreohks/chapter/index.html.

Available for on-line ordering at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D059610054x

059610054x 234 pp. $24.95

Contact: O'Reilly & Associates, Inc., 1005 Gravenstein Highway North, Sebastopol, CA 95472, 800 998-9938, 707 829-0515, http://www.oreilly.com, e-mail: info@oreilly.com, fax: 707 829-0104.


Perfect Digital Photography
Kinghorn, Jay; Jay Dickman

The authors, both acknowledged experts, take the reader on a tour of the life cycle of a digital image, from creation to print. They provide practical, real-world advice about image capture, and show, in detail, how to use digital technology to correct image appearance, and prepare it for output. The full-color text is peppered with beautiful imagery, which will likely inspire as well as enlighten.

Available for on-line ordering at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D0072259213

0072259213 466 pp. $39.95

Contact: Osborne McGraw-Hill, 2600 Tenth St., Berkeley, CA 94710, 510 549-6600, fax: 510 549-6603.


Photoshop and Dreamweaver Integration
Smith, Colin

Web producers are likely to use Photoshop and Dreamweaver in combination to build and maintain sophisticated sites. The author shows how the two can be used most effectively, and without the need for programming nor coding. The techniques are likely to increase the technical know-how and professionalism of those who practice and apply them.

Available for on-line ordering at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D0072255889

0072255889 315 pp. $39.99

Contact: Osborne McGraw-Hill, 2100 Powell St., 10th Floor, Emeryville, CA 94608, 510 549-6600, http://www.osborne.com, fax: 510 549-6603.


Real World Adobe Photoshop CS2: Industrial-Strength Production Techniques
Fraser, Bruce; David Blatner

This book is built on the techniques, strategies, and skills that practicing professionals need to apply in order to be effective and efficient users of Adobe Photoshop CS2. The authors, both seasoned digital imaging experts, begin with the essentials of building a solid Photoshop hardware base, and then present the insider tips and methods that are essential in a production environment.

Available for on-line ordering at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D0321334116

0321334116 957 pp. $54.99

Contact: Peachpit Press, 1249 8th St., Berkeley, CA 94710, 800 283-9444, http://www.peachpit.com, fax: 510 524-2221.


Repair Your Home In No Time
Stoddard, Brooke C.

An illustrated guide to completing more than 70 common home improvement and repair projects.

Available for on-line ordering at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D0789733390

0789733390 221 pp. $16.95

Contact: Que Corporation, 11711 North College Ave., Carmel, IN 46032, http://www.quecorp.com.


Secrets of Adobe Bridge: Making the Most of Adobe Creative Suite 2
White, Terry

The Adobe Bridge is the pathway that connects all of the applications in the Adobe Creative 2 suite. It itself is an application, and in this book, the author provides an overview of all of its capabilities and richness.

Available for on-line ordering at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D0321392272

0321392272 108 pp. $24.99

Contact: Adobe Press, Prentice Hall, 113 Sylvan Ave., Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632


Shooting for Dollars: Simple Photo Techniques for Greater eBay Profits
Grotta, Sally Wiener; Daniel Grotta

There simply are not two people more qualified to write this book than the Grottas. Their extensive knowledge of digital photography has enabled them to write the ultimate guide to product photography, providing all of the information necessary to both acquire photographic equipment and to use it properly. They demonstrate how to photograph a wide variety of items, and then show how to properly edit photos and use them on eBay for maximum effect.

Available for on-line ordering at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D0321349229

0321349229 248 pp. $24.99

Contact: Peachpit Press, 1249 8th St., Berkeley, CA 94710, 800 283-9444, http://www.peachpit.com, fax: 510 524-2221.


SQL DeMystified: A Self-Teaching Guide
Oppel, Andy

An introduction to the use of Structured Query Language (SQL) as a front-end to database access. The author assumes that the reader has no knowledge of database operation, and starts by defining what a database is, and how it functions. There is a quiz at the end of each chapter, and a final exam at the end of the book.

Available for on-line ordering at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D0072262249

0072262249 312 pp. $19.95

Contact: Osborne McGraw-Hill, 2600 Tenth St., Berkeley, CA 94710, 510 549-6600, fax: 510 549-6603.


Take Control of Tiger
Engst, Adam; Tonya Engst, Glenn Fleishman, Joe Kissell, Kirk McElhearn, Matt Neuberg

This very useful book is divided into four parts: Upgrading Tiger, Customizing Tiger, Users & Accounts in Tiger, and Sharing Files in Tiger. Every Mac OS Tiger user will find it beneficial. The authors' approach is very direct, clear, and effective. The sections are color-coded, with full color illustrations and step-by-step instructions. The book is upgraded from time to time, with updates available on the Web. In addition, the reader has the option of downloading the entire book in PDF form. This writing team has done a very fine job not only of packaging valuable information, but in delivering it in the most useful and valuable forms.

Available for on-line ordering at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D032133017X

032133017X 344 pp. $29.99

Contact: Peachpit Press, 1249 8th St., Berkeley, CA 94710, 800 283-9444, http://www.peachpit.com, fax: 510 524-2221.


Take Control of Your AirPort Network
Fleishman, Glenn; Adam & Tonya Engst, editors

The complete insider's guide to setting up, securing, and maintaining an Apple AirPort wireless network. The author covers both the AirPort Extreme base station and the plug-in AirPort Express. Purchasers of the print version of the book can also get a free updated (if available) e-book version of the text by following the directions in the book.

Available for on-line ordering at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D0321321162

0321321162 144 pp. $16.99

Contact: Peachpit Press, 1249 8th St., Berkeley, CA 94710, 800 283-9444, http://www.peachpit.com, fax: 510 524-2221.


Teach Yourself Macromedia Dreamweaver 8 in 24 Hours
Bruce, Betsy

A set of 24 one-hour lessons aimed at creating a functional and sophisticated website using Macromedia Dreamweaver 8. The lessons include gaining familiarity with the software, adding images and multimedia, composing Web page layouts with tables and frames, implementing dynamic HTML, using forms to collect user information, and organizing and uploading a project.

Available for on-line ordering at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D0672327538

0672327538 514 pp. $29.99

Contact: Sams, 201 West 103rd St., Indianapolis, IN 46290.


The Cult of Mac
Kahney, Leander

The author, a new reporter for Wired, has assembled the ultimate homage to the Macintosh computer. It is full of insider information, and a wonderful historical perspective about a computer technology that is referred to by many of its users in reverential terms. This four-color, hard cover, coffee table book, tells the complete Macintosh story and is unlikely to be surpassed.

Available for on-line ordering at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D1886411832

1886411832 280 pp. $39.95

Contact: No Starch Press, Inc., 555 De Haro Street, Suite 250, San Francisco, CA 94107, 415 863-9900, http://www.nostarch.com, e-mail: info@nostarch.com, fax; 415 863-9950.


The eBay Survival Guide
Banks, Michael

The ultimate insider's guide to buying and selling on eBay. The author has packed the book with information gleaned from years of experience, revealing the techniques and tricks for effective and successful on-line commerce. Readers learn how to sell goods and attract buyers, and how to search for goods and get the best price.

Available for on-line ordering at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D1593270631

1593270631 264 pp. $19.95

Contact: No Starch Press, Inc., 555 De Haro Street, Suite 250, San Francisco, CA 94107, 415 863-9900, http://www.nostarch.com, e-mail: info@nostarch.com, fax; 415 863-9950.


The eBay Survival Guide
Banks, Michael

The ultimate insider's guide to buying and selling on eBay. The author has packed the book with information gleaned from years of experience, revealing the techniques and tricks for effective and successful on-line commerce. Readers learn how to sell goods and attract buyers, and how to search for goods and get the best price.

Available for on-line ordering at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D1593270631

1593270631 264 pp. $19.95

Contact: No Starch Press, Inc., 555 De Haro Street, Suite 250, San Francisco, CA 94107, 415 863-9900, http://www.nostarch.com, e-mail: info@nostarch.com, fax; 415 863-9950.


Time Management for System Administrators
Limoncelli, Thomas A.

A very practical guide to time management written from the perspective of a self-acclaimed geek. The content is aimed at real distractions that challenge system administrators such as handling interruptions, dealing with timewasters, maintaining a workable calendar, developing routines for recurring events, keeping to tasks at hand, setting priorities based on customer expectations, and documenting and automating processes for faster execution.

The book begins by showing readers how to save an hour per week. A sample chapter, "The Cycle System," is available for reading at http://www.oreilly.com/catalog/timemgmt/chapter/index.html.

Available for on-line ordering at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D0596007833

0596007833 200 pp. $24.95

Contact: O'Reilly & Associates, Inc., 1005 Gravenstein Highway North, Sebastopol, CA 95472, 800 998-9938, 707 829-0515, http://www.oreilly.com, e-mail: info@oreilly.com, fax: 707 829-0104.


Unix in a Nutshell, Fourth Edition
Robbins, Arnold

A tabbed desktop reference that covers all popular variations of Unix, including GNU/Linux, Mac OS X, and Solaris. The book lists all of the system-specific commands and options of the various Unix varieties.

Available for on-line ordering at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D0596100299

0596100299 885 pp. $34.95

Contact: O'Reilly & Associates, Inc., 1005 Gravenstein Highway North, Sebastopol, CA 95472, 800 998-9938, 707 829-0515, http://www.oreilly.com, e-mail: info@oreilly.com, fax: 707 829-0104.


XML Pocket Reference, Third Edition
St. Laurent, Simon; Michael Fitzgerald

A pocket-size guide to the core XML 1.0 and XML 1.1 specifications and the Document Type Definitions (DTDs).

Available for on-line ordering at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D0596100507

0596100507 171 pp. 9.95

Contact: O'Reilly & Associates, Inc., 1005 Gravenstein Highway North, Sebastopol, CA 95472, 800 998-9938, 707 829-0515, http://www.oreilly.com, e-mail: info@oreilly.com, fax: 707 829-0104.


Yahoo! Hacks
Bausch, Paul

Virtually everything that anyone would want to know about using the Yahoo! search engine and its many properties, such as Yahoo! 360 blogging, and Yahoo! Mail. Readers learn how to search most efficiently, how to participate in Yahoo! Groups and Messenger, and how to be the complete Yahoo! on-line citizen.

Available for on-line ordering at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D0596009453

0596009453 489 pp. $24.95

Contact: O'Reilly & Associates, Inc., 1005 Gravenstein Highway North, Sebastopol, CA 95472, 800 998-9938, 707 829-0515, http://www.oreilly.com, e-mail: info@oreilly.com, fax: 707 829-0104.



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