October 2012
How to... YouTube!
The Wonderful Wizard of OS
Share your candid clips!
Windows 8 Guide! Upgrade
Everything...
XBOX!
Chatterbox
Microsoft’s Amazing Console!
Voice Recognition Everywhere!
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www.connectmag.co.za
issue #42
FEATURES
10
Upgrade to Windows 8! Microsoft’s new operating system is here
OctoBER 2012
10
14
Speak Up! The voice input and speech recognition trend
18
Starter Kit Everyday apps for Android and Apple
20
Back to Basics Get to know the Xbox 360 gaming console
24
DIY YouTube How to upload video
26
What is PlayStation Plus Sony’s new download service – will you subscribe?
20
18 14
REGULARS 04 06 08 68 72
Editor’s Letter News Trouble-free Technobabble Tamsin the Tech Tannie Disconnect
REVIEWS 30 34 45 52 54 56 58
First Looks Top 5 Anti-virus Roundup Memory Notebooks Tablets Accessories
GAMING 60
Reviews
ed’s note
s y a S i Sir H
eard of the iPhone’s handy voice assistant Siri? Sure you have. But did you know that new tech means you can talk to your TV? Voice recognition, which was previously only seen in expensive computer software (think Dragon Naturally Speaking), has become the tech du jour. From your GPS to your smartphone, things like Google Voice are making talking to your tech the way to go. Want to know more? Flip to page 14! New to the smartphone market and don’t know what apps to buy? In this issue of Connect, we’ve compiled a must-download list (page 18) of everyday, essential apps. Consider it your smartphone starter kit for both Android and Apple. With so many great video games coming out, this month we’ve decided to go back to basics with the Xbox 360. What’s changed? Quite a bit! Christo van Gemert is here to shed some light on the new dashboard, Marketplace, Kinect and more (page 20). Launched at the end of June, PlayStation Plus is Sony’s “paid-for subscription service”. Do you want it? Is it worth it? Read about this new PSN service on page 26. Whether you’re upgrading to Windows 8 (page 10), or uploading to YouTube (page 24), Connect is here to talk you through the tech. Also be sure to read Deon du Plessis’ important anti-virus roundup on page 45 – security is here to stay! We hope you enjoy the issue. Tiana Cline EDITOR
PUBLISHER Brett Haggard brett@connectmag.co.za EDITOR Tiana Cline tiana@connectmag.co.za REVIEWS Deon du Plessis EDITOR deon@connectmag.co.za TECHNOLOGY Christo van Gemert EDITOR christo@connectmag.co.za
ART DIRECTOR Jason Palmer jason@connectmag.co.za Junior Designer Jessica Hurwitz jess@connectmag.co.za CONTRIBUTORS Tamsin Mackay Adam Oxford
SUBSCRIPTIONS subscriptions@connectmag.co.za ADVERTISING Dorothy Haggard dorothy@connectmag.co.za
Connect is a joint venture between Hypertext Media Communications and Incredible Connection
Contact Hypertext Media Communications (011) 023-8001/4 info@hypertext.co.za FAX 08654 83304
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in the news... Get an earful Along with unveiling the much-awaited iPhone 5 at its announcement in September, Apple also took the wraps off some new iPods. But the most unexpected bit of news from the announcement concerned the smallest of all Apple devices: the earphones. The earphones currently shipped with iPhones and iPods are maligned for their uncomfortable fit and tendency to fall out of people’s ears, so Apple took that as a sign to design what it calls EarPods. These new in-ear earphones are designed to sit snugly inside the ear, rather than hanging on for life – all while still retaining the iconic white Apple finish that made them famous. EarPods also include built-in controls for music as well as a microphone for voice calls – a function that can be used across the board. These earphones will ship with all new Apple music players and the new iPhone.
Android on a camera Nikon has shown off its Coolpix S800c, a smart camera that runs the Android operating system. The 16-megapixel camera has all the specs you’d expect in a modern compact camera: a built-in GPS, high-def video-recording, wireless networking, and a touchscreen. Those last 2 are the most important bits, though, because the phone runs Android – the same software used in smartphones from Motorola, HTC, and Samsung. This means that it is possible to use popular photography apps – such as Instagram – on your smart camera. Just think about it: you can finally take real photos, with a real camera that has a real lens, and then share them on the world’s most popular photo-sharing service. It’s the perfect marriage of smart functionality and mature hardware. It will go on sale before the end of 2012, for a price Nikon has yet to confirm.
App of the Month: iOS 6
Listen to Amazon Amazon has launched a new feature for all Kindle users, allowing them to synchronise their eBooks with audiobooks. WhisperSync for Voice, as it’s called, lets users purchase the audiobook version of an eBook for $3.95 (around R35). When reading to a certain point on a Kindle, the service remembers the progress. Then, when using the Audible player on another mobile device, the audiobook version gets read to users from the point they stopped reading in the eBook version. It’s seamless synchronisation and integration across Kindle services and devices, making it easy to switch between reading and listening without losing track of where you are in the book.
If you own an iPhone, iPod Touch, or iPad, you’ll want to update to the latest version of iOS – the software that your device runs on. The new version of iOS, version 6, is available for the iPhone 3GS and newer, the iPad 2 and newer, as well as the 4th generation iPod Touch and newer. New features include a revised Mail application, shared Photo Streams, and the possibility to post Facebook and Twitter updates from within other applications. The iPhone 4S and iPhone 5 will have more functionality under Siri, Apple’s voice assistant. Siri will also now be available for the 1st time on the all-new iPod Touch, as well as the new iPad. FaceTime video calls will now also work over cellular networks, for those using iPhones, and you’ll get a revised Phone application that lets you reject calls with message replies, or even set reminders to return a call. iOS 6 is a free update and can be downloaded through iTunes, via a software update. > Go to www.apple.com for details.
6 | connect | October 2012
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© 2012 Research In Motion Limited. All rights reserved. BlackBerry®, RIM®, Research In Motion® and related trademarks, names and logos are the property of Research In Motion Limited and are registered and/or used in the U.S. and countries around the world. Exact delivery date of product in-store to be confirmed. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
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techno jargon // by Deon Du Plessis
Another month, another treasure trove of tech terms. Enjoy!
8 | connect | October 2012
MBR Master Boot Record. A small section of a hard drive or other storage device that stores information about the drive itself, like how many sections it has been divided up into and the programming code used to start the boot sequence.
are taken, with no need to connect the camera to the computer. It’s also possible to take photos away from your computer and wirelessly load them to your machine when returning.
Interlaced
The series of actions a computer takes when it is switched on. All the necessary hardware components and the software needed to allow the user to interact with the computer are activated during this sequence.
An older video technology that used every 2nd line to carry new information. This required less bandwidth to display a picture but it impacted image quality negatively. The opposite of interlaced video is progressive scan, where every line is updated with each refresh of the screen.
Clock speed
Page orientation
This is the rate at which a computer processor can complete a single processing cycle, from the start of the query to its conclusion. A single cycle is called a hertz (hz). Today’s computers measure this in Gigahertz (GHz); 1 GHz is 1 000 000 000 hertz.
This deals with the way that information is displayed. A landscape orientation will have content laid out laterally, as you would read it across a broadsheet, while a portrait orientation will have content arranged in columns, as per a single magazine page. Tablet devices will usually have a sensor that detects how you’re holding it and automatically adjust the page orientation.
Boot sequence
Crop Cropping refers to the removal of parts of an image. The cropping tool in photo-editing software is what you click on once you’ve selected the parts of the image you’d like to keep, and automatically removes everything that isn’t selected. It’s handy for cutting out edges of photos that don’t add anything of value to the image.
QWERTY This is the standard layout for keyboards, used since 1878. Other layouts have been introduced but QWERTY persists because it’s efficient and hundreds of millions of devices use it, from smartphones with hardware keyboards, to virtual keyboards on touchscreen devices.
Cross-platform If a piece of software is referred to as being “cross-platform”, it means it works on more than 1 operating system. A video-editing suite that works on both Mac and PC can be considered to be cross-platform, for instance.
File system In a computer, its file system is similar in principle to a filing cabinet in an office. It provides a way for the computer to store and organise information so that it knows what is stored, and where.
Hibernate In computer terms, this word means something very similar to what it does in nature. A hibernating bear sleeps during winter, placing itself in a restful state that doesn’t use a lot of energy. A computer can be put into a similar state, where it powers down as much of its hardware as possible so that it doesn’t use a lot of battery power.
Eye-Fi A SanDisk standard established for wireless-enabled SD cards, which are used in cameras. Eye-Fi makes it possible for a camera to wirelessly communicate with a computer and transfer photos as they
Redundancy Some computer systems have built-in redundancy to help counteract downtime in case of failure. For instance, a business computer might have 2 separate hard drives that mirror each other. In the case that one fails, the other seamlessly takes over and allows users to continue using their computer without crippling failure or troubleshooting. Redundancy is usually built into business-class server hardware.
RJ45 This is the technical name for the connector standard used by Ethernet – or the network port on a computer. An Ethernet jack uses an RJ45 receptacle, while a network cable will have an RJ45 connector. The standard uses 8 separate pins on the connector for data communication.
RJ11 This is the connector standard for the telephone jack. On a modem router, you will likely have both an RJ11 connector and RJ45 connectors. The latter are used for network devices, while the RJ11 port will be what you use to connect your telephone line to the modem.
www.connectmag.co.za | 9
buying advice //by deon du plessis
10 | connect | October 2012
How to...
Upgrade to Windows 8 Windows 8 will be available for a limited time at a very, very good price. Here’s how to go about taking Redmond up on its more than generous offer.
W
indows 8 launches at the end of October, and it’s a huge event in Microsoft’s long history. It is the single biggest update to their overall operating system design since Windows 95 gave us the concept of a “desktop” and a “Start menu” way back in 1995. Because of the changes it will introduce, Windows 8 is considered by some technology pundits to be a rather risky move. Its biggest competition is Windows 7, an operating system that has earned itself a reputation for speed, reliability and userfriendliness, and there’s a good chance a lot of Windows 7 users won’t want to make the switch right away because they’re happy where they are. Anticipating this, Microsoft has cleverly chosen to give consumers 2 compelling reasons not to wait.
Decisions, decisions! The 1st reason is to upgrade any PC or notebook that you already own for the cheap price of $39.99 (around R350). What’s so great about this option is that it covers PCs and notebooks running Windows 7, Vista and XP, which means there is finally no justifiable reason to stick with an old operating system. Also, R350 is an extremely affordable amount of cash, and a far lower price than the R1 500+ that was asked for Windows 7. This is a time-sensitive offer, though, and must be redeemed through Windows.com before 31 January, 2013.
www.connectmag.co.za | 11
buying advice So, how do the upgrades work? All versions of Windows that qualify for the upgrade are upgraded to Windows 8 Professional. Qualifying operating systems include the following: Windows 7 Home Basic / Home Premium / Professional / Ultimate Windows Vista Home Basic / Home Premium / Professional / Ultimate Windows XP Home / Professional Once Windows 8 launches, you will be able to perform the upgrade online by visiting Windows. com, filling out a few forms and confirming the serial numbers of your existing operating system. Once that is done, the Windows 8 Upgrade Assistant will download, launch and assist you with the download and installation process. According to Microsoft, the download size is “around 2GB”. The process requires that you create a “Microsoft Account” if you don’t already have one to proceed.
Here is a breakdown of what you can keep from your old installation: Windows 7: Applications, settings and personal files Windows Vista: Settings and personal files Windows XP: Just personal files The nice thing about the Windows 8 Upgrade Assistant is that it will tell you what needs to be done to make sure your system is ready for the upgrade, and even suggest ways of making that happen. We recommend that you perform a full backup of all your important files before proceeding anyway, just in case.
How many Windows versions this time around? The 2nd option is to buy a Windows 7 PC between now and January 31, 2013, as these PCs qualify for the cheapest of all upgrades: R125. That cash lets you upgrade to Windows 8 by registering on the Windowsupgradeoffer.com Website, which kicks off the automatic upgrade process that downloads and installs the new files. These are the upgrade options in a nutshell. In this feature, we’ll explore what each upgrade path involves, we’ll discuss the version of Windows the upgrade entitles you to based on what you currently use, and throw in a few “nice to know” facts to keep in mind when you’re contemplating your options.
12 | connect | October 2012
Only 4. Yes, believe it or not, Microsoft has listened to criticism and Windows 8 is only going to come in 4 flavours. If you’re buying a new computer or shopping for a boxed copy of Windows 8, the choice will be between just 2 versions: Windows 8, which is for home users, and Windows 8 Professional for, you guessed it, business users. Windows 8 Professional includes features for encrypting a file system, domain management and virtualisation that regular Windows 8 doesn’t have, features that businesses will find useful and home users won’t miss. The other 2 versions – Enterprise and RT – are for big companies and portable devices that use special hardware.
The process Step 1: Purchase a Windows 7 PC, or boot up your Windows XP/Vista/7 PC. Step 1a: (optional but recommended): Ensure all important information is backed up. Step 2: Create a Microsoft account. If you already have one, go straight to step 3. Step 3: Go to www.windowsupgradeoffer. com and log in. Click the upgrade offer. Step 4: Fill in the upgrade form and complete your purchase (credit card required). Start the Windows 8 Upgrade Assistant download. Step 5: Let the Windows 8 Upgrade Assistant take you through the download and installation of Windows 8.
A few last details Once the download completes, you will be given the option to do the upgrade right away or at a later stage. Doing it later requires that you make your own installation media, which means creating a bootable DVD or USB drive, and is a somewhat more complicated process. We highly recommend doing the installation right away as it’s by far the easiest option. Just be sure to have backed up your data before starting the Upgrade Assistant. If you want to get a physical disk containing the upgrade data, you have the option of buying one directly from Microsoft for an extra $15 (about R125), plus shipping costs, but this is only if you purchase the upgrade online. If you would rather do the whole thing offline, you can purchase the complete upgrade package from a retailer. It includes the operating system on a bootable DVD, and has a recommended retail price of $69.99 (that’s around R580), but of course the actual price you pay might vary according to exchange rate fluctuations and the final pricing decided upon by individual retailers.
Timing is crucial It’s extremely important to note that this upgrade promotion only runs for a limited time. You need to purchase your Windows 7 PC between now and January 31, 2013, apply for the downloadable upgrade or buy the upgrade DVD before January 31, 2013 in order to qualify for this extremely affordable offer. Once purchased, you have until February 28, 2013 to redeem the upgrade. Once that date passes, you’re looking at paying full price for Windows 8.
www.connectmag.co.za | 13
voice recognition //by Christo van Gemert
14 | connect | October 2012
OK, COmputer!
talk to
your tech Did you know that your devices are listening? No matter what phone or computer you use, chances are it’s got some form of voice recognition – and it’s actually rather useful.
W
hen it comes to interfacing with computers, humans have long had to put up with the keyboard and mouse. A better solution is simply not “just around the corner”, because human interaction has many nuances. Computers can’t understand everything we say, but the technology behind speech recognition is improving all the time, and it’s being rolled out in most modern devices, because the only way to improve it is to expose it to people. There are artificial intelligence networks behind all the big voice recognition projects and they’re learning all the time. With each search query and command, our computers are getting smarter, and soon the accuracy of voice technology will be ready for everybody.
At home If you have a Windows PC or a Mac, you already have access to some form of voice recognition technology. Both operating systems have long had the means for users to dictate commands, and all you need is a microphone. With Apple’s most recent operating system update, Mac OS X 10.8 (Mountain Lion), users even have the option of using a dictation tool. It’s easily accessed, and will let users dictate entire sentences, with punctuation, into any text field on their computer. Imagine being able to simply talk to your e-mail program and then click send. Of course this isn’t new, since Dragon NaturallySpeaking has been available for years now. The technology powering NaturallySpeaking is very advanced and doesn’t require an Internet connection to send voice samples to be decoded. It’s the most popular voice dictation suite for both Windows and Mac, and it also offers voice commands. Voice commands are different to dictation in that they let you control your computer with spoken commands.
www.connectmag.co.za | 15
voice recognition On the go The first use of voice recognition in mobile devices was when phones started getting voice dialling. Setting it up was laborious because it wasn’t as simple as saying a name and it getting dialled. Instead, you had to record a voice sample that would be associated with a contact, and the phone would only ever be able to dial the number for “office” when you said “office”, because it was only set up to pattern-match the word “office” – it never really understood what the user said. Modern voice recognition in mobile phones is completely different. The technology will not only discern between different words without training, but thanks to artificial intelligence, those words can be given context. Apple’s Siri, in the iPhone, and Google Now on Android devices are 2 examples. Both are capable of understanding when a user says, “Where can I get some pizza?”. The natural language algorithms will interpret it as a query, take note of the user’s location, and search online for nearby pizza joints. Even entry-level phones have voice dialling and commands that won’t need training beforehand, while there are a number of apps available for smartphones and tablets that let users access voice dictation for composing e-mails and sending text messages – a lifesaver when in the car, using a hands-free kit.
Quick tip For instance, you can start up your e-mail program and send the e-mail you dictated (or typed up) with a few words, rather than moving your mouse about. This also has huge benefits for disabled people who are unable to use a computer’s keyboard or mouse. Microsoft has also been making huge progress with the Xbox Kinect. That motion-tracking camera for your Xbox is more than just a way to play games; it also has voice recognition for controlling the console’s features. Furthermore, the Kinect’s voice tech can be used in games that support it, and Microsoft has a special Xbox application (available for free) to help gather information on people’s voices and accents from around the world. With the Xbox being positioned as the centre of your entertainment hub, it’s possible that your entire movie-viewing, Web-browsing, and gaming experience could be controlled – or at least enhanced – with voice commands.
16 | connect | October 2012
As with desktop solutions, be sure to use a high-quality Bluetooth headset if you intend on using voice commands on your phone. It’ll improve accuracy, besides making for a better calling experience when phoning others.
Quick tip If you’re planning on playing around with voice recognition technology at home, try to have the environment as quiet as possible for the best results. Also invest in a decent microphone so that your computer has a better chance of hearing you properly.
Intelligent printing
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The Kodak HERO 5.1 All-in-One Printer, retail at a recommended price of R1299, is Google Cloud Print Ready and Kodak Email Print Ready, and allows consumers to print from anywhere, for less.
outh African consumers now have access to intelligent printing systems that are easy to use, and offer high quality photos and documents with the lowest average cost-per- page. Kodak All-in-One Printers offer something very unique in the industry – high quality printing with affordable ink – backed by more than 100 years of leading Kodak Image Science.
The Kodak ESP C310 and C110 Allin-One Printer is an entry level wifi printer retailing for a recommended price of R999.
The Kodak ESP Office 2170 All-inOne Printer for the home office, offers four great functions, print, copy, scan and fax in a compact design and retails for a recommended price of R1 499.
The Kodak ESP C110 All-in-One Printer is the entry level non-wifi printer with similar features as the C310 at a recommended retail price of R799.
All Kodak All-in-One Printers use Kodak 30 Series Inks that deliver exceptional quality and cost-per-page ink value. The system uses a one size fits all philosophy across its all-in-one range, meaning they all use the same model black and colour ink cartridgesa, available in either standard or XL sizes.
High Quality Printing with Great Ink Value! The big obstacle for home printing in South Africa has been the high cost of ink. Kodak has solved this problem by providing consumers with affordable ink that delivers long lasting, high quality photos and documents. Kodak’s proprietary pigment-based inks provide richer, more vibrant colors, and significant fade resistance and instant dry advantage over dye-based ink systems. With Kodak, consumers get crisp, sharp text documents, brilliant graphics and Kodak Lab-Quality Photos that are smudge, and water and fade resistant and last a lifetime. Colour: R149
Black: R99
simply smartphone //by Tiana Cline
Lifestyle
Just invested in a smartphone? Wondering which apps to download? Here’s a back-to-basics download list to get you started for Android and Apple...
Photogr aph Houzz
Epicurious
Whether you’re interested in interior design or looking for a new colour to paint your living room, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for in Houzz’ large database of HD home design ideas (around 500 000). You can browse photos by style, room and location and then save them to a virtual ideas book. Price: Free
This app for foodies consists of a searchable database of triedand-tested recipes that can be saved, added to a shopping list and then recreated step-bystep at home. The recipes come from award-winning food magazines like Bon Appetit and Gourmet, as well as numerous cookbooks and chefs. Price: Free ($1.99 to synchronise your online recipe collection)
18 | connect | October 2012
y
Camera+ You’ve taken loads of pictures, but don’t know how to change their dimensions, add borders or enhance the colour? Camera+ is an all-inclusive photography app that lets you edit images in your current camera roll, or use it to take new photos. Price: $1.99
Instagram For fun with filters and access to amazing photographs from around the world, Instagram is a photo-sharing service where you show off your images and follow other like-minded amateur photographers. Price: Free
Talk to me
Local is lekker
Skype If you have Wi-Fi, there’s no need to turn on your computer to use Skype. This free-to-talk service works with ease on both Android and Apple smartphones. Price: Free
Fring To use Google Talk, MSN Messenger or even Facebook Chat onthe-go, Fring is a great app for connecting you to your friends and family online – you can also make free calls to other Fring users via the app. Price: Free
WhatsApp WhatsApp is a cross-platform chat app that lets anyone with an iPhone, BlackBerry, Android, Nokia or Windows Phone send text, video, images and audio, at no cost. Price: Free
FNB
WeatherSA
Unless you need to draw money, FNB account holders will find it easy to view balances, transfer funds, make once-off payments and even get a detailed transactional history using this handy app. What’s more, you can make free calls to any FNB Call Centre, and find your closest FNB branch or ATM on a map. Price: Free
For the most accurate local forecasts, WeatherSA allows you to customise the weather notices sent to your device, from storm warnings and national alerts, to weekly forecasts and even the best time of day to cycle, jog, hit the beach, and much more. Price: Free
COol cloud Tr avel Bug
Flipboard A social magazine of sorts, Flipboard essentially collects the content of social media and Websites you enjoy reading and presents it in magazine-like format. Once you’ve selected the categories that interest you (news, sports, science, technology, design, etc.), you’ll be able to “flip” through social-networking and Website feeds with ease. Price: Free
Dropbox Trip Advisor
TomTom
Planning your December holiday? TripAdvisor has over 75 million reviews by travellers, which means you’ll find the best places to eat, sleep, and visit, wherever you decide to go. Not convinced by the hotel’s photo selection? Look out for pictures others have posted before you book. You can also find lists of the top things to do at your destination. Price: Free
Although most devices come with apps capable of navigation (such as Google and Nokia Maps), the TomTom app is like having the full GPS offering built into your phone, including the most up-to-date maps, advanced lane guidance and being able to search TomTom Places with Google Voice integration. Price: $59.99
To store all your information “in the cloud”, Dropbox is a free storage service that keeps all your photos, documents and videos wherever you are, making everything accessible when you need it. Price: Free
mSecure When it comes to password security, it’s important to use a unique combination of numbers and letters. So how do you remember all your e-mail, Website and other online details? mSecure is like an encrypted phonebook for all your information. A nice touch is that the app synchronises with your desktop, which means any changes you make to the desktop will be synced to the phone version of mSecure and vice versa. Price: $9.99
www.connectmag.co.za | 19
back to basics //by Christo van Gemert
Everything
Box 360
As it nears its 7th birthday, Microsoft’s Xbox 360 looks nearly nothing like the console it started out as. Let’s take a look at what’s changed inside, outside, and online.
20 | connect | OCTOBER 2012
T
he Xbox 360 was originally introduced in November 2005, when it went on sale in the American market. Other territories got the console in December of that year, but it would take another 10 months before we were fortunate enough to have the Xbox come to South Africa. Thankfully, for both us and Microsoft, it’s been a huge success. The console has sold more than 67 million units worldwide, making it the clear “winner” in this generation’s console race. Of course, a winner can’t just sit backon his laurels – Microsoft knows this all too well, and as a result, the gaming box has evolved over the years, and is now in a position where it can be the centre of your living room.
Nip and tuck In 2010, Microsoft finally gave us a redesigned console. Officially it’s called the Xbox 360 S (for slim), but that’s just a formality. The new machine is sleeker and thinner than its predecessor, trading in its fat, off-white body for a thin, gloss-black figure. The push buttons have been replaced by touch-sensitive versions, and instead of clipping the hard drive to the outside of the console, it now has a home inside. Controllers were also facelifted and given a new colour scheme, and if you’re a big fan of a certain franchise, there’s the chance to get your hands on one of a few limited-edition Xbox consoles, with themed graphics and sounds. - there have been custom Xbox consoles based on Star Wars, Gears of War, and Halo.
Hard drive how now? The first Xbox 360 consoles were available with either no hard drive or a 20GB hard drive. The hard drive capacity has been upped over the years, and currently it’s either 250GB or 320GB. It’s possible to upgrade the hard drive, which costs about R1 000, but the new consoles use a different hard drive to the old, fat consoles, so beware. There’s a version of the new console that has no hard drive, but Microsoft has given it 4GB of internal storage, for game updates. This is great for casual gamers who don’t download content online. It’s also possible to use a USB stick (up to 16GB is allowed) to store content.
Under the hood There’s that adage that the more things change, the more they stay the same. That can certainly be said for the hardware in the facelifted Xbox 360. While the core hardware has not changed capability, it’s changed in specification. At the beginning of its life, the Xbox 360 suffered from hardware failures caused by heat, known as the Red Ring of Death. That problem has since been eliminated completely, thanks to a redesign of the chips that power the console. They now run cooler and quieter, which is great for reliability. It also means lower power consumption: the power brick for the Xbox 360 has been redesigned thanks to lower power demands, and now only uses 115 watts at maximum, compared to 203 watts for launch consoles. The console has also gained built-in wireless capabilities, so you don’t need to buy an external wireless adapter or rely on a network cable as in days of old. An HDMI port was added in certain prefacelift consoles, but it’s standard now, and there is a Kinect port for hooking up the Kinect camera. Finally, all new consoles have 5 USB ports for hooking up external accessories.
What’s a Kinect? With the Wii proving that motion gaming is popular, Microsoft looked at doing something similar, but different. The Kinect is a special camera that has 3D spatial awareness and can track motion of the human body. A Kinect sensor plugs into the console (a Kinect port on newer consoles, or a USB port on older ones), and gets accessed in games that need it. It can also be used for facial recognition, video chat, and voice commands.
www.connectmag.co.za | 21
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back to basics
Cool and connected Arguably the biggest change of all is the Xbox experience. The “dashboard” is the visual component of the operating system that powers the console, and it has received numerous upgrades and changes over the last few years. It was originally designed to let users browse a limited amount of online content in the Marketplace, see their friends using the friend list, send messages, and access limited video and audio playback features. Now, that’s all just been turned up to 11. The Marketplace is thriving: there are hundreds of Xbox Live Arcade games available for purchase, as well as community-developed independent games. You can purchase entire retail games online, if you have the means to download between 3GB and 9GB of data, rather than purchasing a disc at a regular shop. And once you’ve played that game, you can download additional content (DLC, downloadable content) for it, to unlock more cars, extra costumes, multiplayer maps, or new missions. There are also Xbox apps, now. These started out as simple Facebook and Twitter apps, but now you can browse YouTube on the Xbox, and it’s a really fantastic experience, with a great user interface. Unfortunately, we don’t have a lot of other apps and content available in South Africa, but in Europe and the US, it is possible to watch live TV broadcasts, over broadband, like ESPN, Sky News, and more. Xbox Live has also gained its own music and movie store, where you can buy and rent films in high definition – again only available abroad. Although we don’t have access to many of the value-added services on Xbox Live, it’s important 22 | connect | OCTOBER 2012
to note that we at least have access to it. It took a while, but Microsoft officially made the online service available to local gamers in 2010, and the content base has been growing steadily. By the time you read this, there will have been another update for the Xbox dashboard, adding more features. Two of note: Internet Explorer and SmartGlass. The former is an obvious progression. As the Xbox marches towards total domination of the living room, it now finally brings a Web browser to your TV. This is a perfect complement to the built-in Bing search functionality. SmartGlass technology is a bit more specialised but will revolutionise the way we interact with the console. It will enable us to use our tablet devices to control certain features of the console, but it will also offer interaction with other parts. We’ll take a look at that in a future issue, once it’s been made fully available.
C1200595
Bring colour to life with Samsung mobile printing.
Wireless mobile printing has finally arrived. Print virtually any file type with your smartphone - in just one step. No wonder it’s the winner of BLI’s first-ever Pick award for “Outstanding Mobile Print App”. Follow us on
how to //by deon du plessis
We show you how to get your video masterpiece onto the Web, and provide some pointers on what to consider before hitting the upload button.
24 | connect | October 2012
Get internet
famous! Things to consider before starting There are quite a few video-sharing sites on the Internet, and you need to find the one you like the most and that offers all the features you’re looking for. YouTube is by far the most popular video-sharing Website out there and offers every feature you could hope for. The most popular features are integration with social networking services Google+, Facebook, Twitter and Orkut for easy sharing, and the inclusion of a comments section that can be toggled on or off at will. Most sites also have guidelines that videos need to follow in order to remain on the site. You can’t post obscene or “adult” material to YouTube, for example – if you do, the video will get flagged as inappropriate and the site’s administrators will take action against your account.
How to Share your magic moments: > Navigate to the desired
Website or service and register or log in. > Click the upload button. > Choose the video file you want to upload. > Click upload. > Wait for upload to complete. > View video online. > Share video link with friends and family. > Be famous!
Did you know? YouTube allows you to upload videos directly from your cellphone by simply e-mailing the file to an address that YouTube creates and associates with your account. Simple!
Tips for better video uploads Video-sharing Websites don’t accept just any old video – often they need to be a certain type of file, under a certain megabyte threshold and time length. Be sure that the video you’re uploading meets the site’s criteria, otherwise it’s a waste of time and bandwidth. Converting videos into different formats is also called compressing them, as the process entails making the videos physically smaller to take up less hard drive space, while keeping the quality as good as possible. Compressing video files is fairly easy. Presumably, if you’ve got the hardware to shoot a video, you’ve also got a video-editing program that can do the conversion for you. If not, and you’re simply uploading a video shot with a cellphone or compact camera, there are several free video conversion programs you can use to hammer your video into the right shape.
Speed is of the essence The speed of your Internet connection will determine how fast your video uploads. Also remember that even if you have a 4 Mbps connection, that’s the download speed; the upload speed – the speed at which you can transfer information from your computer to the Internet – is going to be a lot slower. If you’re unsure what your connection’s upload speed is, point your browser to http://www.speedtest.net and run through the site’s speed checker.
Video-sharing sites worth a look: Vimeo.com Blinkx.com Ourmedia.org
Dropshots.com Twitvid.com Dailymotion.com
Safety first! Lastly, something we highly recommend everyone do is set the privacy status of your video. If you want everyone to watch your best friend fall down, set it to Public. If you just want your friends and family to see the video, set it to “Invitation Only”, and if you don’t want to share anything, set it to “Only me”, or whatever your chosen service’s equivalent is. And that’s it, you’re done! Now it’s just a matter of time before Internet fame finds you…
Free video converters Microsoft Expression Encoder Wondershare AVI Converter (free trial) Handbrake AVS Video Converter 8.2
www.connectmag.co.za | 25
what is it? //by Christo van gemert
What is...
PlayStation Plus? S Sony’s PlayStation now has a premium subscription called PlayStation Plus, but what exactly do subscribers get for their money?
26 | connect | OCTOBER 2012
ince the PlayStation 3 launched in 2006, gamers have had access to the PlayStation Network (PSN) service, allowing them to play games online with their friends. The service had all the essentials, including messaging and friend lists, and was completely free to use – unlike the Xbox Live system, which required a Gold subscription (around R400 a year) to play online. Xbox Live Silver accounts could only access certain online features. In 2010, Sony unveiled PlayStation Plus, and many feared that it would adopt the Xbox model: pay to play, or stick with free and have limited functionality. Fortunately, this proved not to be the case. Gamers would still be able to pay as before, but getting a Plus subscription, for about the same money as an Xbox Live Gold subscription, meant they gained features – and a few other extras. Plus subscribers have access to full game trials, where they can download a complete game on the PSN marketplace and play it for an hour, without needing to purchase it. Think of them as demo versions, but better. There’s also an automatic update feature. Usually, you’d only have your game
updates downloaded when you insert the disk, but Plus subscribers will have this happen automatically, in the background. When you next play a game, it will already have been updated. Another online feature is cloud storage for your saved games. All your game data is stored online and becomes available to you regardless of where you are. For instance, visiting a friend’s house and signing in with your PlayStation Network ID will make your game data available to you from their console.
Discount content Arguably the biggest, err, plus, is the free content. Every month, Sony offers Plus subscribers free games that they can download from the PSN market. The free content is rotated, and there are at least 45 free games made available throughout the year. If you miss out on a free game, you can always purchase it for less than retail – PSN Plus subscribers are privy to a discount for certain premium content. And if your bandwidth allows, you can even watch free high-definition films available online, as long as they’re available in your region.
www.connectmag.co.za
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Experience colour like never before.
Engineered with professionally calibrated technology for superbly accurate colour detail, the new Samsung SB970 lets you experience colours the way nature intended. Follow us on
product reviews // by Deon Du PLessis
NEW Windows SOON
Contents
I
t’s finally October, and Windows 8 will launch at the end of the month. There’s a lot to be excited about if you enjoy seeing the evolution of operating systems (although that does sound a little nerdy, even to my ears). I wish Microsoft the best of luck with the launch, and I am very interested to see just how quickly – or not - consumers flock to it. This month’s reviews feature 2 HP portable PCs, both of which impressed me in their own way. I discovered that despite the Envy 4’s less-powerful processor, the fact that it uses an SSD to help boost the main drive’s performance meant it beat the Pavilion M6 in certain tasks. If you’re torn between the 2 for home use, I highly recommend going with the Envy 4. I also rounded up 4 of the most popular names in security software this month and tested them all out. Read all about my findings in this month’s roundup, found on pages 45 through 50. That’s all from me. See you next month in a postWindows 8 world! Cheers Deon
While we make every effort to ensure pricing is accurate before we go to print, sometimes through circumstances we have no control over, the prices in Connect may differ from those you’ll see on store shelves. In all cases, shelf pricing takes precedence. 28 | connect | OCTOBER 2012
30 31 32 34 36 38 40 42 45 52 54 56 58
First Look – Apple iPhone 5 First Look - Nokia Lumia 820 and 920 Windows Phone 8 Smartphones First Look - Samsung Galaxy Android Camera HP Envy 4 Ultrabook Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 10.1 (P5100) LeapFrog LeapPad2 Explorer and LeapsterGS Explorer HP Pavilion M6 Notebook Belkin Play N750 DB N+ Wireless Router Security Software Roundup SanDisk 128GB SDXC Memory Card Verbatim V3 16GB USB 3.0 Flash Drive Sansui LifePad E-Tab 801 Tablet Accessorise!
&
14
Megapixel
5x
Optical Zoom
1.5m
Shockproof
-10oC
Freezeproof
5m
Waterproof
Dustproof
CMOS-shift Image Stabilisation
Natural Light & with Flash
Tracking Auto Focus
Red-eye Removal
Image Search
YouTubeTM/ FACEBOOK Uploader
product FIRST LOOK
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Apple iPhone 5 NEED TO KNOW Samsung Galaxy S III
Possibly the best Android phone on the market, the Galaxy SIII has a quad-core processor, a large, 4.8” display, and loads of innovative software.
Nokia Lumia 920
(Available: Late 2012) The newest Lumia is also due closer to the end of the year. It will be loaded with an 8-megapixel PureView camera, a 4.5” display, and will run Windows Phone 8.
• Faster dual-core processor • Revised 8-megapixel camera • Thinner and lighter than before Availability: Late 2012. Maybe
It’s barely been a year since the iPhone 4S went on sale locally. Apple’s upgrade to the iPhone 4 was what many expected to be called the iPhone 5, and the 4S disappointed some with its modest upgrade. Now that we have a 5 in the name, has much changed? Not really – but that’s Apple’s philosophy of not messing with a winning formula, as well as refusing to get involved in a specs race with the other phone manufacturers. The iPhone 5 has a revised version of the A5 processor used in the 4S. It’s still a dual-core chip, but the A6 has higher speeds and better graphics capabilities. Apple merely quotes the performance improvement as “up to twice as fast”, compared to the iPhone 4S, for both regular processing and graphics work. Wireless connectivity has also been upgraded, and the iPhone 5 boasts 150Mbps 802.11n wireless, with support for both 2.4GHz and 5GHz networks. This dual-band support means that, when connected to a compatible wireless network, connection speeds will be a lot faster. Similarly, the cellular radio has also been upgraded. The iPhone 5 now has support for 4G networks, including LTE (which is yet to be introduced locally). In both cases, the connection on the iPhone 5 will be fast enough to stream high-definition video as well as make high-definition video calls. Speaking of, the cameras have also been looked at. The rear camera is still an 8-megapixel unit, but it’s been slimmed down to fit in the new body, and tweaked to take better photos under low-light conditions.
30 | connect | October 2012
The front lens element is made of sapphire crystal – perfectly clear, but 2nd in hardness to a diamond, so it’s less likely to get scratched. The front-facing Facetime camera has been upgraded to support 720p video, so you broadcast a better image during video calls. All that extra performance would be useless if the battery lasts less than a day. To that end, Apple has managed to squeeze a better battery in the longer and thinner body of the phone, which it says is good for 225 hours of standby and 8 hours of use or talk time on a 3G network. If you use the phone on a Wi-Fi network, that stretches to 10 hours. Amazingly, as has been alluded to, all of this has been crammed into a body that’s just 7.6mm thick, with no odd bumps to accommodate the camera. The body has also been stretched upwards, to accommodate the headline feature: a taller, 4” display. It’s still a Retina display, with a high resolution, but the extra space means more icons on screen, and when you turn it sideways, you have a widescreen layout for watching movies. The iPhone 5 appears to be an intelligent evolution of Apple’s iconic smartphone design, and we can’t wait to get our hands on one when they become available locally at the end of the year. NOTEWORTHY SPECS • Processor: Apple A6 dual core • Camera: 8 megapixels, autofocus, sapphire crystal lens • Display: 4”, 1 136 x 640 resolution • Connectivity: Bluetooth 4.0, 802.11n dual-band wireless, LTE radio • Storage: 16GB, 32GB or 64GB
Excitement Potential
product FIRST LOOK
Product
Specs
Samsung Galaxy Camera
Samsung Galaxy Camera NEED TO KNOW • Camera with smartphone-like capabilities • Powered by Android 4.1 (JellyBean) • Huge 4.8” touchscreen • 3G/4G and Wi-Fi connectivity Availability: Q4 2012
What’s the one part of the average cellphone that generally underperforms? The camera, of course. Most smartphones these days have sub-par cameras that are out-shot by just about any compact point-andshoot you care to name. So what would you say to a gadget that does things the other way around? Instead of a smartphone with a camera tacked on, how about a smartphone-like device attached to a full-blown, high-quality compact camera? You’d run out and buy it right away, wouldn’t you? Well, that’s exactly what Samsung is hoping you’ll do when you see their new Galaxy Camera, a 16MP compact camera that’s powered by Google’s Android operating system with a large edge-to-edge LCD touchscreen. The marriage of Android to the inner workings of a highquality camera gives you the best of both worlds – all of the functionality and convenience of a mobile operating system and photo quality that no cellphone can rival. The only thing you can’t do with it is make a phone call. Samsung doesn’t stop there, though. The Galaxy Camera is as connected as your current smartphone – it has Wi-Fi and the ability to use 3G/4G cellular networks, meaning you’re going to be connected no matter where you are. That makes sharing photos you’ve just taken so much easier – no more messing around with an SD card or USB cables to get your pictures off your camera and into the hands of friends and family. There is even automatic cloud backup of your photos if you’re in range of your Wi-Fi network, the ability to use apps to enhance pictures further, and a rather extensive array of shooting modes that help you take
professional-quality photos. All of this is only possible because of Android. You can even touch up photos using Samsung’s Photo Wizard software, a process that is helped along by the camera’s quad-core processor. Other functions made possible by the smartphone aspect of the device are voice controls and a very impressive 21 x optical zoom that no current cellphone camera can even hope to match. Voice controls are great for telling the camera to take the shot when you line up self-portraits, or those times you’d otherwise have to rely on a timer to get the shot. Samsung claims the Galaxy Camera has a battery that can last as long as 7 hours, but of course individual mileage will vary based on how the device is set up and how it’s used. Still, 7 hours is a pretty respectable length of time and should last through the average excursion. Of course, the result of getting so much awesome technology into the device is that it’s not exactly skinny. The Galaxy Camera is a lot thicker than the average smartphone and as such probably won’t fit into pockets particularly snugly, but this is an acceptable trade-off when the benefits to be had include such amazing versatility. We absolutely love the idea of an Android smartphone and a decent compact camera paired together in a single chassis, and we’re really looking forward to seeing it ourselves when the Samsung Galaxy Camera is launched at retail later this year.
Pros
Cons
• Stunningly simple idea made real • Smartphone functionality, compact camera quality • Large, touch-sensitive LCD screen • Quad-core processor
• A little bulkier than both smartphones and compact cameras • Might be a little pricey on launch
• Operating system: Android 4.1 (JellyBean) with Samsung TouchWiz interface overlay • Image sensor: 16.3MP with 21 x Optical Zoom and pop-up Xenon flash • Camera features: Wide-angle 23mm lens, geo-tagging, touch focus, face and smile detection, optical image stabilisation • Video: 1 080p @ 30fps, 720 x 480 @ 120fps • Data: GPRS/Edge/HSDPA/ HSUPA/LTE • Network: 802.11b/g/n Wi-Fi, Bluetooth • Memory: 8GB internal, 1GB RAM, MicroSD slot up to 32GB • Display: Super Clear 4.8” LCD capacitive touchscreen @ 1 280 x 720 • Protection: Corning Gorilla Glass 2 • Ports: MicroUSB • CPU: Quad-core Exynos 1.4GHz Coretex-A9 • Sensors: Accelerometer, gyroscope, compass • GPS: Yes, with A-GPS support and GLONASS
Excitement Potential
www.connectmag.co.za | 31
product FIRST LOOK
Product
Specs
Lumia 920 • Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 Plus MSM8960, Dual-core 1500MHz • Display: 4.5” IPS LED @ 1 280 x 768 pixels, 332ppi • RAM: 1GB • Storage: 32GB • Camera: 8.7MP with dual LED flash, PureView enhancements, 1.3MP front-facing • Operating system: Windows Phone 8 • Connectivity: LTE Cat3 Downlink 100 Mbit/s, LTE Cat3/4 Uplink 50 Mbit/s, HSDPA+ (4G) 42.2 Mbit/s, HSUPA 5.76 Mbit/s, UMTS, EDGE, GPRS • Battery: 2 000mAh
Lumia 820 • Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 Plus MSM8960, Dual-core 1500MHz • Display: 4.3” AMOLED @ 800 x 400 pixels, 217ppi • RAM: 1GB • Storage: 8GB • Camera: 8MP with dual LED flash, 0.3MP front-facing • Operating system: Windows Phone 8 • Connectivity: LTE Cat3 Downlink 100 Mbit/s, LTE Cat3/4 Uplink 50 Mbit/s, HSDPA+ (4G) 42.2 Mbit/s, UMTS, EDGE, GPRS • Battery: 1 650mAh
32 | connect | OCTOBER 2012
Nokia Lumia Windows Phone 8 Smartphones NEED TO KNOW • 2 new flagship phones, Lumia 920 and Lumia 820 • 4.5” and 4.3” screens respectively • LTE network support • Windows Phone 8 Availability: Late 2012
Since the rise in popularity of Apple’s iPhones and smartphones running Google’s free-to-adopt Android operating system, Nokia hasn’t been selling nearly as many of its own phones as it did in the early days of cellular telephones. The past 2 years have been spent trying to recapture those glory days, with minimal success. Not even the Lumia smartphones launched in late 2011 and early 2012 in partnership with Microsoft did much to restore Nokia’s shine. But that could all change with the 2 new flagship phones Nokia announced at an event in early September, the high-end Lumia 920 and the mid-range Lumia 820. The big thing about these phones is that they are running Microsoft’s new mobile operating system, Windows Phone 8, and they are designed to respond incredibly quickly to any and all touch inputs. The Lumia 920 is definitely the more exciting of the 2 phones, with some genuinely thrilling technological whiz-bangery, like wireless charging capabilities, support for super-fast LTE networks, an amazing PureView camera, and the nicest screen yet seen on any of Nokia’s devices. All these are sure to entice potential buyers. Nokia’s PureView camera tech is exciting because it has a reputation for taking phenomenal images, and the camera in the 920 boasts the company’s newest iteration, complete with cutting-edge image stabilisation that completely eliminates the effects of unsteady hands. It’s also purported to take bright, blur-free and incredibly sharp pictures in all kinds of lighting conditions that are so good, you won’t need to carry around a compact camera anymore. The 920’s “PureMotion” screen is also apparently so good that Nokia has put its proverbial head on a block by stating that it’s “the world’s brightest, fastest and most sensitive touchscreen”. We don’t know about
that yet, but it’s certainly amazing in that it responds to fingertip input even when you’re using gloves. That’s great news to anyone living in South Africa’s colder climes! The Lumia 820 is the more budget-friendly of the 2 phones, and while it’s a little chunkier and its screen isn’t nearly as nice as the 920’s, it has the exact same hardware under the hood, and as such is capable of providing the same smooth user experience. However, the 820 has no PureView camera enhancements and only 8GB of internal storage compared to the 920’s 32GB, which serve to make the 820 a nicely-equipped mid-range phone that has a lot going for it, but not enough to command the premium price of the 920. The speed of these phones is partly due to their hardware, but also thanks to Windows Phone 8, Microsoft’s newest mobile operating system. Its ultra-efficient design and focus on performance is rumoured to power an interface that is smoother than anything either Apple or Google can produce – a pretty impressive claim given the reputation of Apple’s amazing iOS interface. We’re watching these phones with interest. Windows 8 launches this month, and it’ll be very interesting to see whether the adoption of the new operating system by consumers inspires an increased desire for phones running Microsoft’s mobile OS. While Nokia might be down right now, don’t count them, or Microsoft, out just yet. Whatever happens, all we know is the remainder of 2012 is going to be an interesting time indeed in the tech world. Pros
Cons
• Beautifully engineered phones • Both phones support LTE networks • Windows 8 runs smoothly on both • PureView technology means better pictures
• The 820’s screen isn’t quite as nice as the 920’s • Consumer demand for Windows phones is a little unclear
Excitement Potential
Dell recommends Windows® 7.
Share great memories from unforgettable trips. Relive your fun together with an immersive multimedia experience.
Dell Inspiron 15RSE
Dell Inspiron 17RSE
Recommended Retail Price
Recommended Retail Price
• Intel Core i7-3612QM Processor (up to 3.10 GHz) • Genuine Windows 7 Home Premium (64BIT) • 15.6” FHD (1080p) WLED TrueLife Display • 8192MB (2x4096) 1600MHz DDR3 Memory • 1TB SATA (5400RPM) Hard Drive + 32G mSATA3 SSD • 2GB AMD Radeon HD 7730M Graphics Card • FREE McAfee SecurityCenter 15 Month Subscription • 3 Year On-site Warranty
• Intel® Core™ i7-3610QM Processor (up to 3.30 GHz) • Genuine Windows 7 Home Premium (64BIT) • 17.3” 3D FHD (1080p) LED TrueLife Display (Includes 3D Glasses) • 8192MB (2x4096) 1600MHz DDR3 Memory • 2x 750GB SATA (5400RPM) Hard Drive + 32G mSATA3 SSD • 2GB Nvidia GeForce GT 650M (3D) Graphics Card • FREE McAfee SecurityCenter 15 Month Subscription • 3 Year On-site Warranty
Colour: Moon Aluminium
Colour: Moon Aluminium
R13 999.95 Incl. Vat ®
™
R19 999.95 Incl. Vat
Buy a Windows 7 PC and get Windows 8 Pro for R125.00*. * Offer valid June 2, 2012 through January 31, 2013, for complete details visit http://windowsupgradeoffer.com
3rd gen Intel® Core™ i7 processor.
Dell.co.za/Inspiron Now available at you nearest Dell retailer. Prices and specifications are correct at date of publication and may change without notice. Dell, the Dell logo, and Inspiron are trademarks of Dell Inc. Microsoft, Windows, Windows 7 and the Windows 7 logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries. Intel, the Intel Logo, Intel Inside, Intel Core, and Core Inside are trademarks of Intel Corporation in the U.S. and/or other countries. For more information about the Intel processor feature rating, please refer to www.intel.com/go/rating. Dell disclaims proprietary interest in the trademarks or trade names of other entities used to refer to them or their products. Copyright 2010 Dell Inc. All rights reserved. Dell Computers (PTY) Ltd. P.O. Box 71170, Bryanston, 2021, South Africa. E&OE
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5
product reviews
HP Envy 4 Ultrabook NEED TO KNOW • Premium 14” Ultrabook from HP • Beats Audio system • Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit • Aluminium finish R10 999.95
The Envy 4 Ultrabook combines style with substance without getting too crazy, and the end result is an Ultrabook that finds itself in the magic quadrant of modern-day product design. It’s affordably priced, is very nice to look at, and performs really well. The question is, should you want one? Read on to find out. First, looks. If you’re all about aesthetics, the Envy 4 will have you wrapped around its little finger before you can even say “Ultrabook”. Importantly, it’s more than just the slim build that gives the Envy 4 such appeal. The brushed-aluminium finish that adorns its lid is a definite eye-catcher, but when you pick it up, it’s the soft touch of the matte-red material with which HP has covered the Envy 4’s underside that will seal the deal. The 3rd-generation Intel Core i5 chip powering the Envy 4’s capabilities is one of the best mid-range processors out there, and performs well in day-to-day tasks. It also comes with the fastest of the new processor range’s built-in graphics chips, Intel’s HD Graphics 4000, which is 34 | connect | OCTOBER 2012
surprisingly powerful and ran all of our HD movies flawlessly and even allowed us to play 3D games (albeit at lower frame rates). HP included a 32GB Solid State drive with the Envy 4’s 500GB spindlebased drive, which helps the system perform faster, especially when booting. We timed it, and were very impressed with the 22 seconds it took to go from being completely off to loading the login screen. Having both drives means the Envy 4 gets a performance boost as well as plenty of space to store files, something Ultrabooks with SSDs only just can’t offer. One of the other big draws of this Ultrabook is its sound. The Beats Audio system is a combination of advanced sound hardware and great-quality speakers, which results in the ability to play music without sounding like it’s inside a tin can – not something every portable computer can boast. We happily watched more than 1 movie and listened to music regularly without headphones during testing. It’s fair to say, then, that the Envy 4 is a great entertainer. Is it a good work machine, though? We think so. Despite the non-Professional operating system (it runs Windows 7 Home Premium), we’d be happy to recommend the Envy 4 for work, especially as it has a collapsible Ethernet jack for a network cable in addition to its robust N-class Wi-Fi radio. It’s also not a flimsy arrangement – the hinge is incredibly sturdy and the spring that keeps it in place when no cable is present is very strong. Several other small touches round out the Envy 4’s appeal. There are USB 3.0 ports (x 2), a single USB 2.0 port, an HDMI output for hooking
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The Air embodies the pinnacle of design, packing power, looks and sturdiness into a single, beautiful piece of hardware.
up to projectors, monitors and TV screens, and an SD card reader. The keyboard is particularly nicely done as well; while it doesn’t have a number pad (there isn’t enough space), the keys themselves felt wonderful beneath our fingers, clicking quite satisfyingly when pressed. We were very happy to see that HP didn’t go nuts and include a bunch of random software that people may or may not find useful. Instead, they held themselves back and only supplied Microsoft Office 2010 Starter, a link to try (and buy) games from casual games producer Wildtangent, a 6-month trial of Norton Internet Security 2012, and a selection of surprisingly useful tools that the average user will get good use out of over time, like Evernote and Skype. As much as we’d love to go on to say the Envy 4 is a perfect product, we just can’t. The screen lets it down somewhat with its lower-than-FullHD 1 366 x 768 resolution and noticeable pixels that result in eyesores like rough edges on small text. This resolution is just too low for a 14” screen to produce smooth edges in small, detailed graphics and text, and we feel this model would benefit greatly from a Full HD panel instead. It’s also not a particularly bright screen, and it bends quite easily. None of these are deal-breakers, though, and a case could be made for us nit-picking, but they bothered us given that the rest of the Envy 4 is so impressive. The bottom line here is that the Envy 4 is a gorgeous, capable Ultrabook. Should you want to take one home despite its less-than-perfect screen, and will it serve you well as a general-purpose portable PC? Absolutely.
NOTEWORTHY SPECS • Processor: Intel Core i5-3317U @ 1.7GHz • Operating system: Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit • Display: 14” BrightView LED-backlit @ 1 366 x 768 • Memory: 4GB DDR3 • Storage: 500GB SATA 5 400RPM • Connectivity: 802.11b/g/n Wi-Fi, Bluetooth • Ports: 2 x USB 3.0, 1 x USB 2.0, HDMI, card reader • Sound: Beats Audio
Pros
Cons
• Very nice to look at and touch • Brilliant everyday performance • Graphics chip good enough for HD movies and casual gaming • Lots of space to store data • 32GB SSD boosts boot performance
• Text is not razor-sharp on the screen • Screen is not amazingly bright • Somewhat flimsy lid
perfect companions House of Marley Redemption Song Midnight Earphones Complement the Envy’s Beats Audio system with a set of these excellent earphones from eco-friendly and imageconscious House of Marley.
Overall rating
www.connectmag.co.za | 35
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product reviews
related
products
Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 10.1 (P5100) NEED TO KNOW The New iPad
With a relatively low starting price, the iPad 3 is an excellent contender for the budget of anyone looking for a top-notch tablet computer.
Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 7” (P3100)
If a 10.1” screen is too big for you and you’re looking for something smaller, the 7” Tab 2 is a brilliant option.
Galaxy Tab HDTV Adapter
Plug this adapter into the Tab 2 and connect it to your HDTV using a regular HDMI cable.
36 | connect | October 2012
• 10.1” Android 4.0 tablet from Samsung • SIM card slot for 3G connectivity and phone calls • Samsung’s TouchWiz interface overlay • 32GB of storage R6 499.95
The Galaxy Tab 2 10.1 is the follow-up tablet to Samsung’s popular Galaxy Tab that launched in 2011. It is a thin, lightweight 10.1” tablet that runs Android’s Ice Cream Sandwich operating system, it has an N-class WiFi radio and Samsung has spruced it up with its own TouchWiz interface. There are several versions of the tablet, but the one we received for review is the P5100 model, with 32GB of internal storage and a 3G radio that provides connectivity when you’re on the road. As you can see from the price, it’s not a cheap tablet by any means, but for the cash you’re getting a very solid device that can do everything an Android tablet is expected to do. It’s not perfect, as we’ll explain, but it’s certainly an option if your heart is set on a non-Apple tablet. At only 588g, the Tab 2 is very portable, and won’t weigh down anyone’s carry bag or luggage with noticeable bulk. It’s very thin, too, and feels nice to hold. The back of the device is plastic, though, which feels a bit flimsy, but we’re sure that only the fussiest of consumers will object. At its heart is a new dual-core processor clocked at 1GHz, 1GB of RAM and 32GB of storage. If that’s not enough, it also has a microSD slot that can accept cards with a maximum capacity of 32GB. Samsung has customised the Tab 2’s Android interface with its own TouchWiz UI, which gives users 5 Home screens, some Samsung-specific widgets on the main screen and customised wallpapers. It’s not a total overhaul, and Samsung’s additions are pleasantly subtle. On the front of the device are 2 speakers that put out some pretty decent sound. On top you’ll find a power button, a volume rocker and slots for a microSD card and a SIM card for 3G access. Samsung has chosen a proprietary connector for power and connecting to a PC. The proprietary connector handles output to an HDTV but only with the proper accessory cable (sold separately). There are 2 cameras, a 3.0MP rear-mounted and a front-facing VGA shooter that capture images and even video at 720p. There is no LED flash, though.
So, on paper the Tab 2 sounds pretty good. The screen, however, lets it down a little. Its resolution sounds high at 1280 x 800, but as the screen is quite large it results in graphics that aren’t razor-sharp. That’s not to say graphics on the Tab 2 look bad, they just don’t look as crisp as we expected to see on a device costing this much. General touch navigation is also not always silky-smooth, another surprise given the dual-core 1GHz processor. Despite this, the Tab 2 is still a good Android tablet. It loads apps quickly and 3D games play smoothly, so it’s definitely not unusable. Plus you get all of Google’s great apps and services and they work as expected. We were particularly impressed with the Navigation app that comes preloaded – it recognised our instructions more often than not and provided excellent turn-by-turn navigation using Google Maps. The Tab 2 is not yet an iPad-killer, but it’s pretty good in its own right. If the price seems a little high, perhaps consider the Wi-Fi-only model or one with slightly less internal storage. NOTEWORTHY SPECS • Display: 10.1” PLS Full Touch @ 1 280 x 800 • Processor: 1.0GHz dual-core • Memory: 1GB • Storage: 32GB internal, microSD slot up to 32GB • Connectivity: N-class Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 3.0, GPS, 3G • Battery: 7 000mAh • Video formats supported: 3GP / MPEG4 / WMV / DivX / Xvid / AVI • Camera: 3.0MP rear-facing, VGA front camera • Smart Features: All Share, Geo-tagging, Multi-Touch, Polaris Office, HD video recording and playback, ChatON messenger, voice and video calls
Pros
Cons
• Lightweight and highly portable • 3G and Wi-Fi connectivity • Loads apps quickly • Lots of internal storage
• Graphics don’t look razor-sharp • Some input lag on occasion • It’s quite expensive
Overall rating
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5
product reviews
LeapFrog LeapPad2 Explorer & LeapFrog LeapsterGS Explorer NEED TO KNOW • 2nd-gen educational handhelds for kids • Tougher, faster, prettier • For ages 3 to 9 (LeapPad2), 4 to 9 (LeapsterGS) R1299.95 (LeapPad2) R899 (LeapsterGS)
LeapFrog’s LeapPad Explorer tablet and Leapster Explorer handheld learning console proved to be a big hit with parents and kids alike when they launched in 2011. Now the company has brought out new versions of both that improve on the original designs and give kids and parents even more to experience and enjoy. The LeapPad 2 Explorer is the bigger of the 2 as it’s a tablet for kids as opposed to a handheld console, and it has undergone a fairly serious overhaul that has improved its speed, made it even tougher and expanded its storage capabilities. The new tablet boasts a faster processor that beats the previous one by a generous 157MHz, for a total of 550MHz of processing power. This is why the LeapPad2 Explorer responds so much faster than its forebear, booting up and loading apps significantly quicker. Kids with short attention spans won’t lose interest between the menu screen and their app being ready to go. The LeapPad2 Explorer’s screen has been enhanced, but the changes are all beneath the surface. It’s the same size and resolution as that of the original, but according to LeapFrog it uses power more efficiently so batteries last about an hour longer. To ensure the LeapPad2 Explorer won’t run out of space for all of 38 | connect | OCTOBER 2012
the new applications LeapFrog has developed over the last year, it now has 4GB of internal storage which is double that of the previous model. With an application store that has 125 applications, games, e-books and activities, that extra storage will definitely come in handy especially as the device provides the option for kids to create their own animated projects. New to the LeapPad2 Explorer is a front-facing camera in addition to one mounted on its underside; this makes it easier for kids to shoot self-portraits. Both cameras are 2MP shooters, and both can capture video as well as still images. LeapFrog has kept their educational content backwards-compatible, which means apps, e-books and games that you might have purchased for the first-gen LeapPad Explorer will still work with the LeapPad2 Explorer. The cartridges are also interchangeable. What you’re getting here is an updated, somewhat faster and definitely tougher LeapPad Explorer that kids can be kids with. The only not-so-great thing we noticed in our time with the new LeapPad2 Explorer was that its screen isn’t particularly good. The viewing angle – the angle at which the onscreen image distorts – is quite shallow, and it’s not what anyone would call high-resolution. Still, these factors won’t put kids off, and the screen is still more than adequate to enjoy LeapFrog’s educational content; just don’t expect the same screen quality you’d get on a tablet or smartphone. There’s also no wireless functionality on the new LeapPad2 Explorer, so you’ll still have to connect to your PC or Mac using the included USB cable for updates and transferring purchased content to the device. While somewhat inconvenient, no wireless functionality helps to keep the device’s price down.
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LeapFrog Explorer Learning Game: Dora the Explorer
Dora, Boots and Diego head out on an incredible wildlife rescue adventure! Game includes 5 learning games and 3 interactive storylines that teach 45 different skills.
The other popular LeapFrog gadget, the Leapster Explorer, has also been updated. The new device is called the LeapsterGS Explorer, and it has been given an even bigger makeover than the LeapPad2. For starters it’s wider than before so it’s more comfortable to hold, the direction pad on the left has been updated with a sturdier design, and it has 4 times the storage space than before, at 2GB. It uses the same processor as the LeapPad2 Explorer, and is slightly thinner than the first-gen Leapster Explorer was. The screen is a tiny bit bigger at 3.5” although the resolution is the same. Perhaps the biggest change is that it has a built-in camera, whereas before the camera was a snap-on accessory that you had to buy. The last new addition is the LeapsterGS’s motion-sensing capabilities that let kids play new games that use how the device is held to control the on-screen action. The LeapFrog Connect application for PC and Mac is still part of the experience, and it’s here that you can find and download new apps, activities, videos and interactive e-books for your kids’ LeapFrog devices. Buying these extras still requires the use of a “Download Card” which gives you store credit to the value of LF$20 (LeapFrog Dollars) which is used to purchase extra content. LeapFrog Connect is also where you’ll access your child’s “Learning Path”, which basically tracks what they do on their device, where they are doing well and what areas they might be struggling in. LeapFrog’s educational products are some of the cheapest, yet most refined and value-packed devices tech-savvy parents can buy for their kids. These 2 updated devices are fantastic, and the new features are genuinely innovative enough to justify the upgrade.
NOTEWORTHY SPECS LeapFrog LeapPad2 Explorer • Screen size: 5” @ 480 x 272 • Memory: 4GB • Processor: 550MHz • Camera: 2MP front and back • Batteries: 4 x AA (not included), delivers up to 9 hours • Ports: USB, headphone jack
LeapFrog App Centre Download Card
Grab one of these redeem it through LeapFrog Connect and get LF$20 to spend in the App Centre on activities, games, videos and more!
LeapFrog LeapsterGS Explorer • Screen size: 3.5” @ 320 x 240 • Memory: 2GB • Processor: 550MHz • Camera: Built-in • Batteries: 4 x AA (not included), delivers up to 9 hours • Ports: USB, headphone jack Pros
Cons
• Cutting-edge, fun educational activities • Tracking of kids’ progress through LeapFrog Learning Path • Sturdy products that won’t break easily • New features justify the upgrade • Backwards-compatible with previous devices
• LeapPad2’s screen is not the greatest • Download cards add unnecessary purchasing complications • No wireless functionality
Overall rating
LeapFrog LeapPad2 Explorer Cases
This sturdy case protects your LeapPad2 Explorer while also providing you with plenty of space to store all your game cartridges and accessories.
www.connectmag.co.za | 39
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product reviews
perfect companions
LG IPS Monitor Notebook visuals can always be improved with an external screen. This IPS model from LG is one of the best options out there with its full-HD resolution and excellent brightness.
Beats Studio Headphones Not everyone likes to share in your music, even when it sounds as good as it will through the Beats Audio system. In that case, grab this set of high-end ‘phones and rock your block off.
Logitech Performance Mouse MX Notebook trackpads are convenient when you’re travelling, but for use at a desk, nothing beats the precision and control of a separate mouse. Logitech’s Performance Mouse MX is one of the best.
HP Pavilion M6 Notebook NEED TO KNOW • Entertainment notebook • 15.6” LED screen @ 1 366 x 768 • Large keyboard with number pad • Similar styling to the Envy 4 Ultrabook R9 999.95
The Pavilion M6 looks to be the bigger sibling of the Envy 4 Ultrabook we reviewed on page 34. With a similar build, the same awesome Beats audio system, and a screen that’s nearly identical except for its size, a case could definitely be made for a direct relationship between the 2. Maybe it’s because they’re both designed to entertain you. The build of each machine is fairly similar at first glance, with their metallic lids and brushed-metal finishes, but the M6 is thicker overall, and doesn’t have the same soft-touch underside that the Envy 4 has. Consequently, it’s not as nice to touch and hold but, fortunately, nobody buys computers because they feel nice (or at least, they shouldn’t) and, instead, the M6 makes up for its slightly less attractive aesthetic with some decent hardware. It runs a full-power 3rd-gen Core i5 chip, 4GB of DDR3 RAM and has a nice, big, 750GB hard drive. There is no 32GB secondary SSD to help things along here, though. Not surprisingly, then, the M6 falters a little when it comes to performance. Its dedicated graphics chip might be around twice the speed of the Envy 4’s Intel HD Graphics 4000, and its processor might be faster by a few hundred megahertz, but the speed of the Envy’s SSD makes up for this and we saw it beat the M6 in tasks that involved data-crunching, like gaming, importing and editing photographs, virus scans and HD movie transcoding. M6-only features that the Envy can’t match are its writeable DVD drive, a VGA output port (handy for connecting to older projectors and monitors), and a fingerprint reader, a rather odd addition for a notebook designed for general use and entertainment. It’s a welcome addition, though, as it adds a layer of security to the M6 not present on the Envy. One thing common to both machines is the screen. Despite being an inch bigger, the M6’s screen apparently uses the same technology as it’s also not particularly bright and has a maximum resolution of 1 366 x 768.
40 | connect | October 2012
This is curious considering HP’s branding of both machines with a “Premier Experience” sticker – 1 366 x 768 is not “premier” anything, it’s decidedly middle-of-the-road and quite a disappointment. Still, to be fair, the screen is visible and we still enjoyed the HD movies we watched on it, but there are brighter, better, higher-resolution screens out there and we’d have liked to have seen one on this particular system. Thanks to the Beats Audio system and the robust hardware, using the M6 on a daily basis was a real pleasure. We watched movies, listened to music, surfed the Web, composed documents (Office 2010 Starter was pre-installed) and didn’t notice the M6’s performance to be lacking in any way. We even managed to play some casual 3D games smoothly. As a result, we thoroughly enjoyed our time with the M6. It’s a beautifully-made machine and it performs well considering it doesn’t have an SSD, and is a great buy as an entertainment notebook for everyday use. NOTEWORTHY SPECS • Processor: Intel Core i5-3210 @ 2.5GHz • RAM: 4GB DDR3 • Storage: 750GB SATA 5400RPM • Display: 15.6” LED-backlit @ 1 366 x 768 • Operating system: Windows 7 Home Premium • Optical drive: DVD burner • Ports: 3 x USB 3.0, HDMI, VGA • Connectivity: 802.11b/g/n Wi-Fi, Gigabit Ethernet jack, Bluetooth • Extras: Fingerprint reader
Pros
Cons
• Beautifully-built notebook • Fast, full-power processor • DVD drive and VGA port • Good, dedicated mobile graphics chip
• Underwhelming screen resolution and brightness • No SSD to assist with general performance • Feels rather heavy
Overall rating
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5
product reviews
Belkin Play N750 Dual-Band N+ Wireless Router related
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TRENDnet TEW650AP 150Mbps WiFi Access Point
If all you need is to extend the wireless reach of your network, consider connecting this range extender to your existing network by cable.
perfect companions
Belkin TEW-664UB Wireless Dual-Band USB Adapter Grab one of these USB adapters and get the best of both worlds with 2.4GHz and 5GHz network connectivity.
42 | connect | October 2012
NEED TO KNOW • High-speed wireless router • Ideal for streaming HD media wirelessly • Multiple antennae for greater coverage • Not an ADSL modem R3 299.95
The N750 N+ router from Belkin is an N-class wireless router with Gigabit Ethernet ports and 2 USB ports, and it’s a great choice for office and home networks looking to expand. It’s not an ADSL modem, however, so you’ll need one of those as well if you want to connect to the Internet through the N750. But it is a very fast, very effective wireless router that can seriously add to your network’s speed and coverage. The N750 uses Belkin’s Multibeam antenna technology to produce a wide Wi-Fi coverage area, and allows several devices to connect at the same time from just about anywhere on your premises. It also ensures consistent wireless throughput, which means connections don’t drop and speeds don’t fluctuate wildly. Streaming HD video is something Belkin claims the N750 does well, and it does it by using an exceptional Quality of Service module to prioritise certain types of network traffic over others. Streaming HD video, particularly between wireless devices, is an impressive feat considering how big HD movies are, and how much raw speed is necessary to ensure those files don’t skip or break up during playback. Being somewhat sceptical, we tried it out. Connecting 2 laptops to the network was as easy as finding the default network with which the N750 was pre-configured, and joining it by pressing the WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) button on the router when prompted for the network key. Once on, we set up shared folders and played a 1 080p movie file that was stored on one of the laptops on the other one, and it played flawlessly. The picture didn’t break up and there was no stuttering whatsoever. Another notable feature of the router is its dual-band capability. To most South Africans, this won’t mean much as using both bands (2.4GHz and 5GHz) requires that your device can connect on both, and many devices sold here don’t have those abilities. If you do happen to have a dual-band network adapter, the area your wireless network will be able to cover will grow, and you will see a speed
improvement on the 5GHz range that’s around double that of the 2.4GHz range. The 2 USB ports on the back of the router can have a printer and an external hard drive connected to them for easy sharing. You can’t have 2 USB hard drives connected, however, as the ports can’t power both at the same time. Belkin makes the initial setup extremely easy by connecting up all the necessary cables at the factory and providing crystal-clear instructions. Unfortunately, as with other recently-reviewed Belkin products, the router’s Web interface is the same as always, and still includes the semiuseless software that does little more than take you to the configuration page when you click on things. It’s only useful if you’re completely new to networking, but veterans won’t need it at all. We also didn’t like the wobbly stand the router comes with, as it toppled over a number of times during testing. That, in addition to the fingerprint-attracting glossy plastic finish, added to our less-thanimpressed opinion of the router’s build quality. Still, it’s a good product. Add it to an ADSL modem and you’ll have all the wireless network coverage you’ll need for your home or work network. NOTEWORTHY SPECS • Antenna: Internal, integrated • Networking: 802.11b/g/n Wi-Fi, 4 x Gigabit Ethernet ports • Data transfer rate: Up to 450Mbps • Bands: 2.4GHz and 5GHz • Max. Wi-Fi connections: 16 • Security: WPA/WPA2 • WPS Push button security: Yes Pros
Cons
• Creates a fast and reliable Wi-Fi network • Streaming smooth HD video is possible • Very easy to set up
• Same old configuration interface • Included software isn’t entirely needed • Wobbly stand, plastic build quality
Overall rating
© 2012 Kaspersky Lab ZAO. All rights reserved. Registered trademarks and service marks are the property of their respective owners.
I don’t want to know whether people can access my personal data, i just want to know it’s locked down.That’s why I use Kaspersky Internet Security. www.kaspersky.co.za
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product roundup
Safe
surfing
It’s that time of year, when all the big security vendors release new products. We have rounded up 4 of the most popular consumer security software packages to see what each has to offer.
By Deon du Plessis
Before we start, let’s set the record straight: no matter which security software package you choose, you’re going to get pretty decent protection against most cyber threats. The ways in which security programs from various vendors are different in their effectiveness are so small as to be insignificant, unless, of course, you work in the marketing departments of any of those companies, in which case it’s a big deal. No, regardless of which you choose, you’ll find that pretty comprehensive protection is yours for the having. What should be influencing your buying decision is which package has the features you want or need, how easy and understandable the interfaces of each are to work with, which one impacts on your system performance to the smallest degree possible, how many computers a single purchase will cover, and what the overall cost is going to be. Once you have the answers to those questions, you’re ready to begin. Before you even leave for the shops, though, the most pressing question that needs an answer is whether or not it’s even worthwhile buying security software considering the large number of solutions available online.
The thing with free security software is they’re often just anti-virus applications that lack many of the useful extras offered by the kinds of security suites we’ve rounded up for you here. Absent from most free security software are firewalls (essential for protecting access to your PC from the Internet), identity-theft prevention measures, parental controls, and system performance tools. All of these, we’re sure you’ll agree, are rather important in this digital age. Lastly, paid-for software offers much better support – faster, better, friendlier, etc. For these reasons, we took a look at 4 popular Internet security packages from AVG, Kaspersky, Norton and BitDefender. We installed them on 4 separate PCs and monitored system performance, poked around their interfaces to gauge their ease of use, and checked out their various features. What follows is less a summary of everything each one has to offer (because each could fill a 4-page feature on its own), and more a focused discussion of what each one offers that caught our attention by either impressing or annoying us.
www.connectmag.co.za | 45
product roundup
Kaspersky Internet Security 2013 Overview
KIS2013 has much in common with KIS2012 in terms of overall capabilities. New to the suite is a function called Safe Money, which secures online payments and banking with an additional layer of protection. It checks the Web address you’re using, as well as the server you’re connecting through, to verify that you are, in fact, using legitimate services. KIS2013 has a slick interface and is always connected to the Kaspersky Security Network, Kaspersky’s always-online network that monitors for and deals with threats as they emerge. This is a comprehensive offering from Kaspersky, with tweaks and improvements over last year’s version that make it faster while offering more protection than ever. What we liked
If your operating system or programs are not up to date, they can be attacked by hackers using the “holes” their unpatched state creates in the system’s security. New to KIS2013 is improved exploit protection, which monitors program behaviour and prevents unpatched programs from causing harm, so even if they are not up to date, they pose no threat. This version’s spam filter is truly excellent – it didn’t incorrectly identify any of our mails as spam, and we loved the new secure keyboard that activated any time we were asked to enter a password or when we accessed banking pages. It secures all keyboard input so that anything you type can’t be intercepted by another program. The software has a detailed reporting engine that records and shows the system’s status so you can see very quickly how many – if any – attacks it has experienced. It’s a good way to quickly get an overview of the threats your system has faced. 46 | connect | October 2012
The intelligent firewall didn’t ask us any questions whatsoever, and just got on with the business of ensuring programs that needed access to certain things had it. What we didn’t like
The installation process was not fast, and we did notice a slight slowdown in our test system’s overall responsiveness. It wasn’t pull-my-hair-out noticeable, but it wasn’t entirely invisible, as an ideal security software solution should be, either. The initial scan where the software was gathering data on what’s safe and what might not be also wasn’t fast. Subsequent scans were a lot quicker, however. R399.95 (1 User) R499.95 (3 Users) Get it if:
Don’t get it if:
• KIS2013 scores well on independent tests in all-round protection • Clean interface, easy to use • Safe Money is effective and intuitive • Great price for 3-PC protection
• Full scan takes a while • Slight impact on system performance
Overall rating
AVG Internet Security 2013 Overview
What we didn’t like
AVG Internet Security 2013 offers protection in 5 core categories: computer, Web browsing, identity, e-mails and firewall. Everything is presented in a very attractive manner that looks similar to what we’ve seen of Windows 8’s interface so far.
We’re not a fan of the Fix Performance button that took us through a scan of our computer to see where performance could be improved, only to tell us that we had 1 free tune up before we had to buy AVG’s Tune Up utility software. The installation tries to install AVG’s own toolbar into your system’s browser, another tactic we’re not fond of. Then, under the “More from AVG” button, we found yet another “special offer” that was advertising another 4 AVG apps we could buy. As AVG Internet Security is paid-for software, the extra advertising is not appreciated.
What we liked
Of all the software in the roundup, AVG IS has the cleanest interface. It’s as straightforward to use as any software we’ve used before, and it has a good balance of useful features. We liked the Link Scanner feature that scans downloads and URLs for malware before you use them, and also that the software includes a free copy of AVG’s Android mobile security software. Other handy features include a Do Not Track plugin for browsers, which prevents Websites gathering information about you, and alerts you when your notebook tries to access potentially dangerous Wi-Fi hotspots. The software’s Game Mode detects when you’re playing a game and prevents popups and notifications from displaying while you’re busy gaming. Lastly, the scan times are the best in AVG’s history. We noticed that once the initial scan completed (which took a while, but this is normal), all subsequent scans took just over a minute on our test system.
R299.99 (1 User) Get it if:
Don’t get it if:
• Affordable protection for 3 PCs for a year • The software’s super-clean interface • No-nonsense protection • Fastest scans in AVG’s history
• Toolbar add-ons are the pits • In-app adverts
Overall rating
www.connectmag.co.za | 47
product roundup
Norton Internet Security 2013 Overview
NIS2013 is this year’s version of Symantec’s excellent Internet Security suite. It keeps a lot of what made last year’s version so good, and adds a new-but-familiar interface that’s going to work well with touchscreens, and adds Windows 8 to the mix. It offers a comprehensive selection of anti-malware tools to keep PCs protected from just about any online threat, including unknowns, and boasts the fastest and most convenient installation of any Norton product to date. That’s an impressive feat considering last year’s fantastically fast install. What we liked
Symantec has further improved the software’s installation process: once launched, NIS2013 installs in under a minute. We know, because we timed it. Once installed, there was a 30MB update, and once that completed, there was nothing else that needed to be done. NIS2013 is a brilliant fire-up-and-forget security solution, which means you don’t have to think about it once it’s installed – it just does its job quietly in the background. It also impacts the least on overall system performance of all the software here, and has a parental control module that some of the other packages don’t have. The new interface has been optimised for touchscreen input as the icons are large and easily pressable, and the usual selection of deeper options is accessible with only a few clicks. You have the option of a simplified interface, or a more traditional, detailed view. We like Norton’s SONAR system that uses advanced in-the-cloud reputation-based and behaviour-monitoring detection measures that prevent unknown threats from running rampant. There is even social network protection by way of a wall-scanner that detects malicious Facebook links before they’re clicked on. 48 | connect | October 2012
New to this version is a link to Symantec’s extensive online tutorials that explain everything about the software in quite a bit of detail. What we didn’t like
Scan speeds are a little behind the competition, but we could chalk that up to the software’s thorough approach to threat-squashing. The initial scan took around an hour and a half, and subsequent scans averaged a respectable if a bit tardy 2 minutes and 23 seconds on our test system. There is also not a whole lot that’s brand-new in this year’s version; it’s more of an enhancement than a revolutionary step forward. It’s still a good upgrade for existing users of Norton Internet Security, and one of our favourite security solutions, but this year’s version lacks that wow factor that would have us recommending it as the best option available. R599.95 (3 Users) Get it if:
Don’t get it if:
• You’ve enjoyed previous versions of NIS2013 • The super-fast install process • You like user-friendly, near-silent security software • The long list of useful features
• It’s more of a refinement than a revolution • Scans are a bit behind the competition
Overall rating
BitDefender Total Security 2013 Overview
The people at BitDefender have brought out the best version of their Total Security software yet. It’s everything we had hoped for, with an attractive, yet still highly functional new interface (it’s slightly tweaked over last year’s version), great all-round performance, and a host of protection features that could easily be called “comprehensive”. New to this year’s version are Safepay, device anti-theft, a USB immuniser that protects USB drives against threats, and a security widget that lives on your desktop if you want it to. What we liked
BTS2013 is a completely silent security solution. It has an Autopilot mode that handles everything for you, and it ensures you won’t get bothered by unnecessary popups, alerts or configuration questions. Its new status ring changes colour according to the status of your system – green for “all clear”, yellow for “something needs attention”, and red for “act now!”. It’s an easy way to check how the system is doing at a glance. “Safego” connects to your Facebook and Twitter accounts and scans for malicious software, making social networking a significantly less risky endeavour. It worked well for us, discovering several issues that needed our attention. BitDefender Safepay is the newest addition to BTS2013, and it offers a safe way to access payment Websites securely. It separates your browser from the rest of the computer, which effectively cuts it off from any software that might be spying. The technical term for this is “virtualisation” as the browser is running in a tightly controlled, entirely separate virtual environment. Using this mode is a bit slow, but the
extra security is well worth the speed sacrifice. It does bear mentioning, though, that some browsers offer similar “virtualised browser” functionality (Chrome, for instance), and those are completely free. What we didn’t like
The initial “Deep” system scan took well over an hour, and the “Estimated Time Left” indicator kept increasing the longer the scan went on. System performance wasn’t exactly the same as without BTS2013, but it wasn’t hugely slower either. The widget – the small graphical representation of BitDefender’s options that hovers on the desktop – is a bit of a superfluous addition as it just seems to get in the way as opposed to being genuinely useful. R399.95 (1 User) R499.95 (3 Users) Get it if:
Don’t get it if:
• Comprehensive protection with a nice interface • Virtualised browser secures online payments • Protects against social network threats • Autopilot makes management simple
• Security widget is more of an annoyance than a useful tool • Browser virtualisation is available for free online (Chrome) • Slight performance impact
Overall rating
www.connectmag.co.za | 49
product roundup
E di t Choor ’s ice
We were more impressed by BitDefender this year than we were by any of the other suites on test. While they all provide a decent amount of protection, we found BitDefender to offer the right combination of features, performance, innovation and price. If you’re a huge fan of any of the other packages, you won’t be doing yourself a disservice by sticking with them, but if you’re in any way dissatisfied, it might serve you well to switch to BitDefender Total Security 2013.
If you’re intrigued by any of these programs, all of them have free 30-day trials available, which grants you access to their full functionality for a month. Simply Google “PRODUCT NAME trial” and you’ll find what you need.
Quick look...
Kaspersky Internet Security 2013 > Anti-Virus > Anti-Spyware > Anti-Phishing > Anti-Spam > Anti-Rootkit > Anti-Banner > Auto Exploit Prevention > 2-way Firewall > Parental Control > System Watcher & Rollback > Application Control > URL Advisor > Gamer Mode > Instant Safety Checks > Virtual & Secure Keyboard > Free Technical Support
50 | connect | October 2012
AVG Internet Security 2013 > Anti-Virus > Anti-Spyware > Anti-Phishing > Anti-Spam > Anti-Rootkit > Identity Protection > Firewall > LinkScanner Surf-Shield > Free Technical Support
Norton Internet Security 2013 > Anti-Virus > Anti-Spyware > Anti-Phishing > Anti-Spam > Anti-Rootkit > Identity Protection > Firewall > Parental Control > Vulnerability Protection > Application Control > Download Insight 2.0 > Online Family Monitoring /Blocking Tools > URL Advisor > Tune-up Tools > Social Network Scan > Online Tutorials
BitDefender Total Security 2013: > Anti-Virus > Anti-Spyware > Anti-Phishing > Anti-Spam > Anti-Rootkit > Identity Protection > Firewall > Parental Control > Autopilot Silent Mode, Game Mode > Security Widget > Vulnerability Protection > Tune-up Tools > Safepay > USB Immuniser > Anti-Theft > Safego Social Networking Protection
product reviews
perfect companions
Canon 650D Starter Bundle Canon’s excellent 650D shoots full HD video and 18MP stills, and will need as big a memory card as possible so you can concern yourself with getting the shot and not how much storage space you have left.
52 | connect | October 2012
If you have 3 thousand bucks burning a hole in your pocket and a hankering for shooting 10 hours of continuous HD video footage in 3D, you’re in luck. SanDisk has just released its fastest SDXC memory card in South Africa that’s perfect for that sort of task, and it’ll cost you R2 999.95. With the veritable explosion of videos being shot around the world, the need for extremely high-capacity memory cards is growing along with it. SanDisk estimates that in 2011, people generated 4 exabytes of video, and that 2014 should see that number hit 6.8 exabytes. To put that in context, a single exabyte is large enough to store 50 000 years’ worth of DVDquality video. 4 exabytes is a pretty scary number, then, and it’s set to rise. This 128GB SDXC card has been developed to meet the need for camera storage that is growing alongside the sheer volume of video being shot. It can record information at speeds of up to 45MB/s to enable users to shoot 3D HD movies for hours on end. Basically, it’s the fastest SDXC card available right now. No doubt another product will come along soon and blow it out of the water, but for now, this card is the last word in highspeed memory cards. It’s based on SanDisk’s new Ultra High Speed architecture which seriously increases the transfer speeds a memory card is capable of through some very clever technical wizardry. Fortunately the UHS standard is also backwards-compatible, and cards that use that architecture will work on older card readers and devices that don’t support the UHS standard. As to be expected, in those situations they operate at lower speeds and not to their full potential. This particular card is not only incredibly fast, but SanDisk has also included a 1-year subscription of RescuePro Deluxe, data recovery software that helps you to rescue deleted or missing photos from any SanDisk memory stick. It’s a 3-step process that involves inserting the card into a card reader, scanning it and then previewing and selecting which
12.12929"
NEED TO KNOW • Memory card for cameras and HD camcorders • Supports read and write speeds of up to 45MB/s • Can store up to 10 hours of 3D HD video • Ridonkulously expensive R2 999.95 (Available on request)
files to recover. If you’ve ever accidentally deleted a photo, you’ll know how much extra peace of mind this software offers. The speed of the card is great for shooting burst-mode shots on highresolution stills cameras too. We tested it out on several cameras we have at the office, and were happy to see no lag or delays in saving the shots to the card, and we managed to capture some pretty awesome pictures in the process. All in all we were very impressed with this card. Our tests revealed speeds very close to the rated 45MB/s, and as such we’re happy to recommend it as an option when you’re shopping for a fast memory card. It’s just the price that puts us off, but as with any new technology that premium is to be expected. It might be a smart idea to stick with what you have for now, and grab one of these when the price inevitably comes down in the next 6 months.
11.12929"
GoPro HD Hero: Motorsport Edition Designed specifically for motorsport, this HD camera can capture your driving antics in gorgeous 1080p and shoot 11MP stills. It’s also waterproof up to a depth of 60 metres.
SanDisk 128GB SDXC Memory Card
11.62929"
GoPro HD Hero2 Outdoor Edition Action Camera Combining outdoor adventuring with awesome live-action HD video-capture has never been so much fun!
NOTEWORTHY SPECS • Card Type: SDXC • Capacity: 128 GB • Read Speed: 45 MB/s max • Write Speed: 10 MB/s min., 45 MB/s max • Class Rating: Class 10 + UHS Speed Class 1 (U1) for 2D and Full HD (1080p) • Security: Built-in write-protect switch • Dimensions: 2.39 x 3.18 x 0.20 (cm) • Great for: 3D and Full HD Recording • Warranty: Lifetime Limited Pros
Cons
• Incredibly fast memory card • Well-suited to high-speed photo and filmography • Captures many hours of HD footage • Data recovery software coupon is a bonus
• Mighty pricey
Overall rating
© 2011 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Screen images are simulated.
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product reviews
related
products
Verbatim Store ‘n’ Go 500GB 2.5” USB 3.0 External Drive
For only another R800, perhaps consider this USB 3.0 external drive. Its 500GB capacity delivers great value, plus it’s a lot faster than the V3 memory stick.
Verbatim SuperSpeed USB 3.0 3.5” 3TB External Desktop Hard Drive
If you don’t need to carry your storage around with you, this 3TB desktop hard drive is a very good option. Its USB 3.0 interface means pretty nippy transfers to and from the drive.
54 | connect | OCTOBER 2012
Verbatim Store ‘n’ Go V3 16GB USB 3.0 Flash Drive NEED TO KNOW • USB 3.0 memory stick • 16GB of storage space • For Mac and PC R199.95
Not too long ago, the idea of a 16GB memory stick would have blown most people’s minds. Today, memory sticks with high capacities are rather commonplace. What sets them apart now is their speed, and with USB 3.0 becoming something a lot of PCs and notebooks have, companies are producing USB 3.0 memory sticks that can take advantage of the speed bump offered by the new standard. The drive we received for review is from Verbatim. It’s nothing special to look at, and the plastic that was used in its build feels rather cheap to hold. It features a slide-out neck that can be retracted to reduce the chance of damaging it, and it comes in quite a few different colour combinations. The slider mechanism isn’t great, though, and if you’re not paying attention when you use it, the USB connector won’t slide out all the way. It arrives formatted with the FAT32 file system, which means it will work with both Macs and PCs right away, but if you want to copy files to it that are bigger than 2GB, you’ll need to reformat it. NTFS is the option to go for if you’re a Windows user, and exFAT is for Mac users or people who would like to use the drive on both Windows and Mac (exFAT works on both platforms).
Speed-wise we weren’t impressed. We tested a number of files, all bigger than 4GB, and noticed some strange results. When copying to the drive from an SSD (something that guarantees the best-possible copy speed from the source drive) the transfer rate starts out at a rocketing 160MB/s, but quickly drops below 100MB/s, then to 80MB/s, eventually settling into a reported speed of 13MB/s or so for the rest of the copy. It also paused at the “5 seconds remaining” point, appearing to do nothing, and stayed that way for a further 3 minutes before completing. As a result, our 4500MB file took over 8 minutes to copy, which translates to an average speed of 9MB/s, not what anyone would call impressive. We then copied the same file from the drive back to the SSD, and it improved considerably, taking 2 minutes and 18 seconds to copy, averaging 32.3MB/s. While better, it’s still not what we expected to see from a product that supports the USB 3.0 standard. Basically, the V3 drive from Verbatim is only of value because of its capacity. 16GB is a very useful amount of storage to be able to carry around in a pocket, and R199 is a respectably low pre-gigabyte price. Its speeds are not reflective of what USB 3.0 is capable of, though, and while it’s technically true that the drive supports the USB 3.0 standard, it doesn’t appear to support it to the fullest-possible degree. Where this drive can be useful is with Windows 7’s ReadyBoost feature. ReadyBoost uses USB drives with certain speed capabilities to store files that Windows regularly needs, thereby speeding up the system’s responsiveness. This drive qualified somehow, and we did notice a slight performance improvement on our test system. Since R199 is not a lot of cash and 16GB is a respectable amount of storage, this drive isn’t a total wash. Just don’t expect it to reach the super speeds that USB 3.0 is capable of. NOTEWORTHY FEATURES • USB 3.0 Interface • New retractable design, shields USB connector in transit • Available in 7 trendy colours • Lifetime limited warranty • Free password protection software available for download • Works on Microsoft Windows XP/Vista/7 • Requires a sound card
Pros
Cons
• Good price • 16GB is a lot of storage • Works with ReadyBoost
• Not as fast as USB 3.0 is capable of • Flimsy plastic housing • Retractable neck mechanism isn’t wonderful
Overall rating
product reviews
related
products Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 P3100
The Galaxy Tab 2 is a better tablet in every way but price. It has more storage, a faster processor, a higher-resolution screen and it’s also Wi-Fi- and 3G-enabled.
The Latest Apple iPad
Everyone over at Samsung will probably disagree, but in our opinion, this is the tablet to aspire to. It’s fantastic in every way, from how it looks, to how it works, to how it feels. For now, it’s the best tablet around.
56 | connect | OCTOBER 2012
Sansui LifePad E-Tab 801 Touchscreen Internet Tablet NEED TO KNOW • 8” Internet tablet • Wi-Fi and 3G connectivity • Android 4.0 R2 999.95
Sansui’s latest LifePad tablet is an 8” device that’s quite thick and fairly heavy, with a capacitive touchscreen and 4GB of internal memory. It runs Android 4.0, also known as Ice Cream Sandwich. It’s not what we’d call a super-fast tablet, but it has enough built-in capabilities to fill in as an entry-level tablet while you save up to buy something a bit nicer. Unfortunately, just about any tablet on the market right now fits that bill. We’d love to say the E-tab’s budget hardware makes it a great option for first-time buyers, but to be perfectly frank, it really isn’t. The 1st thing we noticed when we fired up the E-tab was its screen. Not even sight-impaired users will miss the fact that the E-tab’s screen is blurry and pixelated, which, for such a small display, is unforgiveable. Small screens are fantastic for disguising low-resolution panels, but the E-tab’s screen is so bad that even its size can’t hide its awfulness. We offer the tablet’s interface font as proof of this. While it’s possible to make out each letter, the general pixilation of each is so bad that they often seem to blend in to one another. The “Br” in the word Browser, for example, takes some intense scrutiny to see where the B ends and the r begins. It’s by no means unusable, but it’s unforgiveable in the age of razorsharp screens and pixel densities in the multiple-hundreds. Also, it forces you to resize everything you do that involves text or else face eye strain. Once you’re past the awful screen, the next flaw you’re faced with is the tablet’s sluggish response to your touch: sometimes apps launch and links work when you touch them, other times they don’t. And when you’re browsing the Web, don’t expect the experience to be fluid – pages often don’t load properly or they scroll jerkily, like they’re from 1999. The E-Tab’s sound quality is passably okay, if a bit tinny. It may be useful as a music player but really, an iPod touch is smaller, has a better screen and costs about the same. Don’t even waste your time thinking about which one is superior.
Sansui included a SIM card slot so the E-tab 801 can use a 3G data connection when you’re away from Wi-Fi. This is all well and good, but the way they designed the slot requires you to force in your SIM card using a blade or something thin, and to get it out, you must press on it with that same blade before the spring-loaded slot releases it back into your hand. In its defence, the E-tab 801 allows users to download awesome apps and games that are available from the Google Play Store. It can be used as a general Web browser and may be useful in a pinch when you’re far from a Wi-Fi connection. It could also serve as a very young child’s 1st tablet. It’s not entirely a case of do-not-purchase, but it’s far enough away from “good” that consumers need to bear that in mind when making up their minds about it. NOTEWORTHY SPECS • Processor: Cortex A9 @ 1GHz • Memory: 1GB DDR2 • Display: 8” capacitive touchscreen LCD @ 800 x 600 • Storage: 4GB flash memory, microSD card slot (up to 32GB) • Connectivity: 802.11b/g/n Wi-Fi, 3G via full-sized SIM card • Connectors: Mini HDMI, mini USB 2.0, SD card slot, headphone jack • Camera: 0.3MP front-facing, 2MP rear-mounted • Operating system: Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich) • Battery: 5 000mAh, up to 13.5 hours of music, up to 4.5 hours of video and up to 5 hours of Web browsing
Pros
Cons
• Compact design and easily portable • Access to the Google Play Store • 3G connectivity is convenient
• Low-resolution screen • Sluggish response at times • SIM card installation and removal issues
Overall rating
In Japan, we’ve always belIeved small Is beautIful
the epson small-In-one Range Like the Bonsai tree, less is definitely more when owning an Epson Stylus SX235W Printer. The ultra compact footprint means this Small-in-One effortlessly complements any modern home environment without taking up too much space. This, together with great value for money, flexibility and easy-to-use Wi-Fi functionality make this printer a must-have for first time users.
product Accessories
Beating bad audio Beats Audio has taken the music world by storm. Here is a look at 6 of the range’s most prolific products.
iBeats Durable, stylish, highresolution sound These earphones were designed to replace the basic set that comes with Apple’s i-devices. They feature a premium design and far better sound quality than that offered by Apple’s pair. The iBeats are made from solid metal, which eliminates the vibrations that might otherwise lead to distorted audio, producing incredibly deep bass that doesn’t drown out sounds in the mid and high ranges. Comfort is another consideration, and these ultra-light earphones ship with a wide selection of silicone eartips to suit just about any ear canal. Then there’s the added convenience of the in-line controls, which include a microphone for hands-free calling. The iBeats are great for exercising, everyday listening and for rectifying Apple’s oversight of including such unremarkable earphones with their products.
58 | connect | October 2012
Beatbox Bringing the party home The Beatbox is a portable speaker system that uses cutting-edge audio technology to put out some absolutely incredible sound. It’s powerful enough to power parties with its thumping-yetclear bass, and advanced enough that it won’t distort even when cranked to ear-pummelling volumes. It’s a speaker dock rather than an all-inclusive sound system, which means you’ll need an iPod or iPhone to provide the tunes. Its sturdy dock and great-quality controls won’t break with long-term use, and there’s even a pocket-sized remote control to change tracks and adjust volume from across the room.
Powerbeats Engineered for athletes Designed through a collaboration of a top US athlete and Dr. Dre, the Powerbeats earphones are the ‘phones to get if you are tired of your current pair falling out just because you’ve hit the court/field/gym a little hard. With their over-ear design and high-quality audio capabilities, the Powerbeats are the best way to deliver high-fidelity sound to ears belonging to very active people. They are sweat-resistant, and fit so
snugly and securely, that even if you were to violently headbang your way through Bohemian Rhapsody, they’d stay right where they are. You can even control your music using the in-line controls, and if you decide to take them on a run, they let in ambient noise (while keeping the bass pumping) so that you can still remain aware of your surroundings and avoid being run down by a homicidal Joburg driver (they’re everywhere).
Studio The original Beats These iconic headphones got the Beats by Dr Dre brand on the map. They consist of a full studio over-ear build with battery-powered, noise-cancelling capabilities so good, they can even drown out the sound of a jet engine, sealing the listener into their own cocoon of high-fidelity audio. Perfect for studio use. The earcups are super-comfortable and suited to long sessions behind a mixing desk, and the entire design is collapsible and folds into a neat and easy-to-carry package when not in use. Everything is sturdy and durable as well, which means the possibility of many hundreds of hours of use with no risk of damage. Not forgetting users who might like to pair the Studio headphones with their mobile devices, there is also an in-line control with a built-in microphone. If you take your music seriously, this is a great set of headphones to add to your collection.
Solo HD Headphones Clearer sound, deeper bass The Solo HD headphones are a smaller version of the bigger – and more expensive – Studio Beats headphones. They’re compact enough to fit into a carry bag or purse, and are made of highly durable materials that will keep the music playing for many years to come. The sound they produce is nothing short of fantastic thanks to the only 2-speaker design in the
entire Beats by Dr Dre range. One speaker handles bass, while the other puts out mid- and high-end sound, which keeps bass deep and punchy without sacrificing the clarity or volume of mids and highs. They’re not just for music, either; with a microphone built into the in-line controls, you can hook these up to a phone and answer calls between tunes without having to take them off.
www.connectmag.co.za | 59
game reviews
Just Dance 4 R499.95 So, how popular can a dance video game really be? Well, with more than 29 million games sold across the world, the Just Dance franchise is less a game and more a global pop-culture phenomenon! It’s time to put your dancing shoes back on with Just Dance 4, the newest iteration. Promising to take the party to a whole new level of fun, JD4 has over 40 songs, each with their own choreography, as well as some new game modes. In the dance-off battle mode, you can challenge a friend in 6 rounds of routines to see who will be crowned champion. What’s great about JD4 is that it isn’t a single-player experience. Unlike other dancing titles where you compete one after the other, JD4 can have more than 1 player on-screen at the same time. In fact, some songs feature exclusive 4-player dance routines where everyone playing will have their own moves and moments. Not all gamers are couch potatoes! Thanks to next-gen peripherals like the Xbox Kinect and PlayStation Move, it’s easier to use a dancing game like JD4 as your daily exercise. In the previous Just Dance games, you could turn on the “Just Sweat” mode and get fit playing, unlocking some achievements along the way. (And looking at rewards, there are up to 6 challenges per song in this new title.) In JD4, this mode has been upgraded and the game now features workout sessions, personalised programmes and an actual calorie counter. One of the best parts of the Just Dance series is the choreography. Combined with colourful, themed graphics, every song is unique and beautifully illustrated. In JD4, you can unlock alternative choreographies and mash-ups that include some ultra-challenging moves and outlandish routines. So you think you can dance? Virtually, anything is possible.
60 | connect | October 2012
NEED TO KNOW • Over 40 new tracks • More moves and modes • All-new “Just Sweat” option
LET THE MUSIC PLAY Just Dance 4 features more than 40 new tracks, ranging from chart-topping Billboard hits to classic dance party tracks. Whether you like pop, hip hop, rock, R&B, country or funk, there is something for everyone. Tracks for Just Dance 4 include: Call Me Maybe – Carly Rae Jepsen Disturbia – Rihanna Good Feeling – Flo Rida Maneater – Nelly Furtado Moves Like Jagger – Maroon 5 ft. Christina Aguilera Never Gonna Give You Up – Rick Astley Rock Lobster– The B-52s So What – P!nk Super Bass – Nicki Minaj You’re The First, The Last, My Everything – Barry White What Makes You Beautiful – One Direction Wild Wild West – Will Smith
>>The wii-U way<< Considering JD4 for the Wii U when Nintendo’s new console arrives? Ubisoft has some special features lined up for this platform. First up, you can create and personalise your own dancer card to check out all favourite tracks, best scores, and challenges. Using the Wii U GamePad, you can create a playlist, choose the next song, write live messages on screen, take pictures and videos of your best moments, and share them with friends. You can also change the choreography in real time by selecting your friends’ next dance moves on the GamePad’s touchscreen!
www.connectmag.co.za | 61
game reviews
Dishonored
>>coming soon<<
NEED TO KNOW
• First-person steal, action and adventure • Supernatural abilities • Define your own style of play Meet Corvo Atano, the protagonist in Bethesda’s new game Dishonored. After being framed for the murder of an empress, he is freed by a mysterious stranger who just happens to grant him magical powers to exact revenge. Compared to both Thief and BioShock (but set in Victorian England) Dishonored is about player choice. It’s not an open world game per se, but every mission is a mini-sandbox filled with opportunity. You can, for
example, go stealth and jump across rooftops or go undercover by taking possession of a person… or what about a fish? The flexible combat system in Dishonored allows you to creatively combine your abilities, supernatural powers and gadgets as you make your way through the levels and dispatch your targets. So no matter if you’re listening in on a private conversation, or choosing to silence an enemy (sleep or stab, you pick), there are plenty of first-person gameplay options and the controls are seamless. Dishonored has an all-star voice cast. You’ll hear John Slattery from Mad Men, Susan Sarandon playing Granny Rags and Golden Globe-winner Brad Dourif as an inventor named Piero. What type of assassin do you want to be? R599.95
F1 2012 NEED TO KNOW
• Feel the passion, speed and glory of F1 • Competitive and co-operative multiplayer • 6 world champions to beat
62 | connect | October 2012
Hitman Absolution Agent 47 is back. The cold-blooded assassin is about to take on his most dangerous contract to date. Betrayed by those he trusted and hunted by the police, he finds himself at the centre of a dark conspiracy.
>>Look out for<< Assassin’s Creed 3 Unleash lethal new skills and experience a stunningly realistic 1775 world as Connor, warrior son of a Native American mother and British father.
Do you have what it takes to race a full F1 career? Work your way up to being a champion in F1 2012’s season challenge career mode, or race on the all-new Circuit of the Americas Texas track. Feature all of the circuits from the expanded 2012 calendar (including the return of Germany’s Hockenheim ring) also included in the game is Silverstone’s Becketts and Istanbul Park’s Turn 8. Know the track, win the race? Think again! Thanks to a new localised weather system, the in-game circuits are more unpredictable than ever. For a less lengthy gameplay experience, look out for the new “quick play” champions mode. Featuring 6 F1 greats (such as Kimi Räikkönen, Lewis Hamilton, Jenson Button and Michael Schumacher), in this mode, you’ll compete in short scenario-based challenges. A nice addition to the F1 series is a tutorial mode set at Abu Dhabi’s Yas Marina called “Young Driver Test”. Codemasters have also included lap walkthroughs where a technical consultant talks you through each lap, highlighting braking points, gearing and giving expert advice. Accessible, immersive and oh-so fast, F1 2012 will appeal to every fan of virtual racing. R599.95
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The sweeter side of technology. @GirlGuidesZA
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game reviews
Borderlands 2
NEED TO KNOW • An open world • Experience 4-player RP shooting • All-new environments and enemies • Bazillions of weapons Borderlands 2 follows the story of 4 new Vault Hunters – Axton, Salvador, Maya and Zero – as they fight to free Pandora from the clutches of Handsome Jack. Yes, that’s the enemy’s name and he is the brilliant and charismatic, yet utterly despicable, CEO of the Hyperion Corporation. If you didn’t play the 1st game, here is a quick gameplay summary: pick 1 of 4 character classes, pick up a gun, kill enemies and loot them. It’s all about fast action and being able to powerup – perfect for fans of the role-playing genre. The original Borderlands game stood out because of its revolutionary content 64 | connect | October 2012
generation system, which produced an (almost) infinite amount of guns. There were literally hundreds of thousands of weapons in the game, each with their own, unique manufacturers, specifications and advantages. In Borderlands 2, the 4 playable “Vault Hunter” classes are new, and each has a specific strength that defines his or her action skillset. They’re also completely customisable. The assassin, for example, can enter a stealth mode and surprise enemies with sword swipes, while the siren, Maya, can phaselock enemies, suspending them in mid-air. Each skill within itself has been modified and includes some fun customisation options. The gameplay in Borderlands 2 is similar to Blizzard Entertainment’s Diablo in many ways – not only will you find yourself looting enemy creatures and psychos, you’ll also get mobbed by groups of them. But compared to the original Borderlands, the fights are more engaging, advanced and, most importantly, entertaining. And if you thought it wasn’t possible
for Gearbox, the game’s developer, to update the infinite guns system, think again. In Borderlands 2, you will see more diversity in the arsenal as well as slight visual differences between the weapons. From explosive shotguns to energy weapons and throw-away rifles, there really is a gun to suit every taste and action-style. Another noticeable sequel difference is that Pandora, the game’s planet, is now open, larger and has more unique environment settings. With the arctic tundra, treacherous grasslands, and mysterious corrosive caverns, Pandora is an unpredictable and dangerous world you’ll want to explore. If you’re looking for an immersive action game that’s as fun to play on your own as it is co-operatively, Borderlands 2 should be your 1st pick. A new era of shoot and loot is about to begin! R699.95
>>Get this<< Diablo III Be 1 of 5 heroic characters embarking on an epic online quest to save the world of Sanctuary from the corrupting forces of the Burning Hells.
>>Coming soon<< BioShock: Infinite Fight foes in high-speed Sky-Line battles, engage in combat among the clouds, and harness the power of dozens of new weapons and abilities.
www.connectmag.co.za | 65
game reviews
Angry Birds: Trilogy
NEED TO KNOW • 3 Angry Bird games • New cinematics and unlockables • Use Kinect and Move
PES 2013 NEED TO KNOW • The best players and teams • Intuitive gameplay controls • PES FullControl, Player ID, and ProActive AI
There are 3 types of virtual soccer players: the die-hard FIFA fans, the other side who only play PES and those who like to be behind the scenes with a title like Championship Manager. Every year the same question is asked – will EA or Konami bring out the better game? This year’s Pro Evolution Soccer (PES) could be a winner, thanks to PES FullControl, which gives you total freedom over the ball with dynamic gameplay controls. For the first time PES 2013 offers fully manual shooting and all-new goalkeeper animations and AI that helps them anticipate dangers and act accordingly. “Player ID” means the world’s greatest players (think star Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar and the legendary Kaka) behave like their real-world counterparts. And with players behaving individually, ProActive AI ensures the whole game ebbs and flows like a real soccer match. With 150 licensed teams and 17 licensed national squads, PES 2013 has everything a football fan could ask for! R399.95 (Wii)
66 | connect | October 2012
>>Get This<< NBA 2K13 Pit the NBA’s current superstars against classic players and then download the MyNBA2K app for extra mini-games like shooting practice, free throw drills, a dribbling course and autograph signing.
>>Consider this<<
Just when you thought you had your fill of Angry Birds on your phone or tablet, Angry Birds: Space came along. Now Rovio’s popular avian physics shooter is arriving on next-gen consoles and integrating exciting tech like the Xbox Kinect and PlayStation Move into the gameplay. And on the 3DS, you can expect a version of the game tailormade for Nintendo’s handheld with both Stereoscopic 3D and Streetpass. The Angry Birds Trilogy consists of the same green pig-destroying action you already know and love: In the first game, you’ll use the unique destructive powers of the Angry Birds to lay waste to the pigs’ fortified castles. In Angry Birds Rio, the original Angry Birds are kidnapped and taken to Rio where they eventually escape their captors and set out to save their friends, Blu and Jewel. And finally, in Angry Birds Seaons, the birds are celebrating different holidays like Halloween and Chinese New Year. The game has over 290 mind-bending puzzles in each game… and in HD with animated backgrounds if you’re playing on Xbox 360 or PlayStation 3. There are also new cinematics and other entertainging extras to unlock. Will the most popular mobile game be your favourite on console too? R399.95
>>Download this<<
Madden NFL 13
Fruit Ninja Kinect
Get ready for some classic American Football with physics you can feel – this year’s Madden has true player impact means no two plays ever look or feel the same.
For a quick session of motioncontrolled fun, your arms are now blades in Halfbrick’s slice-em-up arcade game for HD.
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tech tannie
Hello social media, skatties,
tech Tannie is here to resolve your fab twitter niggles in 140 words or less…
issue of the month: Q:
How do I find the latest news on Twitter? I hear people talking about seeing breaking news before it goes anywhere else but don’t know how to do this. Newsworthy in Natal Follow @ccnbrk, @bbcbreaking, @nytimes, @BreakingNews, @ reuters, @abc, and then check your favourite news site for their specific tag.
A:
Q:
I can’t use the Web version of Twitter. It’s too confusing, too slow and, honestly, I can’t customise it enough to suit my needs. What else is there? Your best bet is to use a desktop client like Hootsuite, Tweetdeck or Seesmic. These are easy to install, use, customise, and read.
A:
Q: If you have questions, gripes or just seek some solace, e-mail Tamsin, our friendly tech tannie at techtannie@connectmag.co.za 68 | connect | October 2012
Can you give me 5 ways to make the most out of my Twitter account and get more followers? Followed in Vereeniging Keep your name simple, catchy and easy to remember, post interesting content, listen to others, respond to others, and don’t be rude.
A:
tech tannie
Q:
I want to get specific, tailored content on Twitter, to cut through the noise. How do I do this? Noisy in Nelspruit What you need is a hashtag. Topicspecific streams are preceded by the # symbol, such as #twitterlove, but there will still be some chatter.
A:
Q:
I would love a really easy-to-use news aggregator that can give me the latest buzz on Twitter without any hassle. What do you recommend? Easy in Johannesburg I absolutely love Twazzup. Just go to www.twazzup.com, enter your search terms into the bar and you get realtime results and news.
A:
Q: A:
What is a Twitter list? Can anyone have one? Twitter lists let you compartmentalise and track specific people so you get targeted and are sent precise tweets, and you can send targeted and precise tweets.
Q:
I have recently joined Twitter but, other than a few friends I’ve told about it, I have no followers. How can I build up a base of people? To start with, search for people to follow based on your interests. Type the term into the Search bar at the top of the Twitter home screen, and Follow those you like.
A:
Q:
I loved Twitter and sent out tons of tweets about my day and life, I used hashtags, I followed people back, I retweeted people, and yet I still have hardly any followers. In fact, lots of people stop following me. Why am I so unpopular on Twitter? Chatty in Cape Town Bokkie, it is highly likely that you’ve been tweeting all sorts of kak about your breakfast, toenails and arms. Stop, slow down and only tweet the good stuff.
A:
Q: A:
How can I see what’s trending on Twitter? Trendy Thambo in Cape Town Finding trends is easy, but tracking them is hard. There is a lot of choice out there. Start with Trendsmap – it’s easy, in real time and cool.
Q:
What are the basic Twitter commands, words and lingo that I need to know so I don’t end up looking like a complete idiot on my first tweet? Lingo Pete in Potchefstroom This one is simple. Go to www. twitter.com/help/lingo. Sorted.
A:
Q:
Can I send personal information over Twitter? It seems like a really quick way to sort things out. Personal in Grahamstown The short answer is…no. Avoid sending your e-mail address on Twitter unless you have to. Never, ever send bank details or ID numbers. Ever!
A:
70 | connect | October 2012
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disconnect //By adam oxford
Scratch
the surface Touchscreen technology is great, but will it be tough enough for work?
S
o, here it is, then. Windows 8, Microsoft’s big vision for the future of the PC, is about to launch worldwide and before long, it’ll be the default operating system on any new PC, laptop or tablet you buy. I don’t plan to go into a long list of the pros and cons of Windows 8 – there’s plenty of comment along those lines elsewhere – but it is very different to what’s gone before. And since you can upgrade from Windows 7 to Windows 8 for as little as R125, you may well be tempted to install it soon after launch, and it’s good to prepare yourself for the changes. The big change is that the Start menu has gone, to be replaced by a full-screen page with links to application launchers and real-time panels displaying things like e-mail, appointments and instant messages received. In a world where smartphones and tablets are taking over, the basic reasoning is that this is more finger-friendly on a touchscreen. To help even more, many commands are not gesture-based and involve dragging a finger from the side of the screen to activate – not unlike BlackBerry’s Playbook OS. So far so good, and Windows 8 has its various fans and detractors online. I’m more interested in the hardware that’s going to follow Windows 8 – because while I love my tablet, I’m not so sure about a touchscreen laptop or desktop computer. This is because I am incredibly clumsy, and pretty careless too. You see, touchscreens are great in a nice, clean office environment, where fingers aren’t covered in grease and there’s 72 | connect | OCTOBER 2012
no hot wind kicking up the dust from the side of the road. But if you have a smartphone that you take out and about a lot, I’m willing to bet you have a transparent screen protector stuck to the glass to prevent it getting scratched. How do you do that with a 13” or larger screen? It’s not that such a film would be impossible to make, but I can’t glue one to a phone a fraction of that size without getting air bubbles and hairs stuck under it. And I’m completely bald! And as for tablets, I care for and love my Transformer in a way I’m not sure I can my laptop – that’s much more of a work tool rather than something with which to sit down and read the papers. I use my laptop all day, every day. And what’s worse is so does my 6-year-old daughter. There’s no way it’s going to last several years without getting etched with finger gunk and soil. Apparently toughened glass specialist Corning has come up with a new version of its legendary Gorilla glass to help stave off damage on more heavily used screens, but I’m still not convinced. I managed to scratch the nearly indestructible Kindle within 24 hours of purchasing it. Nothing is safe in my presence. Perhaps, though, I’m worrying unnecessarily. After all, I don’t need to upgrade my laptop yet anyway. Maybe the younger generation, raised on iPads and smartphones, has evolved to be more careful. Or to have eyes that can adjust to random diffractions of light. Me? I’ll certainly be trying Windows 8. But for the time being, I’ll stick to a mouse.
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