Jan 21

PhraseExpress 6: HTML Formatting & Performance Enhancements

Posted in: Features, Freeware, Newly Released, performance, Software, Today's Chili, Windows

This article was written on December 02, 2008 by CyberNet.

phraseexpress.png
(Click to Enlarge)

We’ve written about PhraseExpress before because of the fact that it’s a free application for personal use ($50 for commercial users). They are pretty smart giving away their software for home users, because they know once you start using it you’ll want to have it in front of you while you’re at work as well. So if you do happen to be a PhraseExpress user you’ll be pleased to know that version 6 was just released today, and includes some nice improvements:

  • Support for HTML formatting
    PhraseExpress now supports Rich Text and HTML-formatted phrases which can include pictures and hyperlinks as well.
  • Up to 10x faster loading time
    A new file format reduces the phrase file size by more than 10 times compared to previous versions.
  • Restrict Autotext and Hotkeys to certain applications
    The scope of Autotexts and Hotkeys of any phrase can now be restricted to certain programs or excluded from a customizable list of applications.
  • Autocomplete for individual words
    The unique text prediction feature which has been introduced in v5 has been significantly improved. Additionally, it also offers to auto-complete single words rather than full sentences only.
  • Multi-language support
    PhraseExpress supports Unicode for multi-language phrases but now also offers to switch the keyboard language layout automatically.
  • Automated Email creation
    PhraseExpress can now compose an email including html text/bitmaps (Outlook only), file attachement and definition of cc: and bcc:. The body text length is now only limited by Outlook and PhraseExpress can be configured to send the email immediately without need of confirmation.
  • Runs from a USB memory device
    PhraseExpress can now be used on a USB memory stick. If running from an USB stick it stores all user and configuration data on the removable device only and leaves no traces on the host PC.

Another free text replacement utility is Texter, and while it isn’t as powerful as PhraseExpress it is definitely a fast and simple tool. Give them both a whirl and see which one works best for you. But remember, PhraseExpress is only free for personal use.

Get PhraseExpress for Windows [via Lifehacker]

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Jan 20

New Ubuntu 8.10 Theme Has Even More Brown

Posted in: Freeware, Linux, Pre-Release, Screenshots, Software, Today's Chili, ubuntu

This article was written on June 30, 2008 by CyberNet.

One of the the most frequent comments I hear from new Ubuntu users is that the default theme for the operating system is a tad too brown. I kind of like the current Ubuntu theme, but it was supposed to get an overhaul with the last release. The new default theme has got pushed back to Ubuntu 8.10, and we’re getting our first glimpse of the new theme now that Ubuntu 8.10 Alpha 1 has shipped. The verdict: it’s even more brown!

To show you what I mean here’s a screenshot that PhoroLinux provided showcasing OpenOffice.org fully skinned by the new theme:

ubuntu 810 alpha.jpg
(Click to Enlarge)

What do you think? There is always the option to go back to the lighter Ubuntu theme, but I find it interesting that they might be shipping Ubuntu 8.10 with an overall dark theme. Personally the dark theme is not at all something I would use, and I was hoping for a theme more along the lines of this mockup.

We’ll keep an eye on the progress of the new theme, and we should have a better idea what will ship with Ubuntu 8.10 as we get closer to the October 2008 launch.

Grab Ubuntu 8.10 Alpha 1

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Jan 20

FTP-like Uploader for Firefox Supports Flickr, Picasa and more

Posted in: Apple, Firefox Extensions, Freeware, Microsoft, Screenshots, Software, Today's Chili

This article was written on June 01, 2007 by CyberNet.

Firefox Universal Uploader

One thing that many file sharing sites lack is an FTP-like interface for users to upload their files. Whether it be photos, videos, or just about anything, most power users like having the option to drag-and-drop files from one window to another.

So what if there was an FTP program that worked with Flickr, YouTube, Picasa Web Albums, and even Box.net? You’d probably think that was pretty great…and so I introduce you to Firefox Universal Uploader. This extension is sure to become a huge hit as it incorporates more services, but I’m already loving it.

Once I installed the Firefox Universal Uploader I clicked the "Manage Accounts" button in the upper-right corner to setup my Flickr account. It took me a little while to realize that this was actually a button, but after I figured that out it was smooth sailing. The extension went and grabbed all of my sets from Flickr, and put them in a folder-like structure on the right side of the screen.

Then using the left and right buttons located in the middle, I was then able to transfer images back and forth between Flickr and my computer. At the bottom of the screen is where you manage things like names, descriptions, and privacy options for the items you upload.

Unfortunately it doesn’t have the drag-and-drop feature that is found in most FTP applications, but it is almost there. I’m sure future releases will support more than just Flickr, YouTube, Picasa Web Albums, and Box.net as well as offering drag-and-drop support.

After seeing this extension it started to make me wonder why a standalone application has never been made to do something like this. I could just see it now…an FTP program that supports plug-ins for services like Flickr and YouTube!

Thanks to Radu and 100rabh for the tip!

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Jan 19

CyberNotes: Track Packages

Posted in: CyberNotes, Features, Firefox Extensions, Freeware, Software, Tips and Tricks, Today's Chili, Web Sites

This article was written on February 12, 2008 by CyberNet.

CyberNotes
Time Saving Tuesday

I remember when online stores first started popping up everyone was wondering how in the world such a marketplace would continue to exist. At the time online prices were about the same as they were in the retail stores, but shipping costs killed any savings that you would have received. Now things are not only cheaper online, but a lot of stores offer free shipping on purchases.

Now the problem that I encounter the most is keeping track of all the packages that are supposed to be coming to me. Just a few weeks ago I had a package who’s status said that it was delivered, but I never actually received it. Luckily the company that I ordered it from quickly refunded my money, but if I was not tracking the package a lot of time could have passed before I realized that there was an issue.

You can always track packages through the carrier’s website, but there are alternate methods available that make staying on top of multiple orders extremely simple. Here are my four favorite ways to track packages…

–TrackThePack (Homepage)–

This is one of my favorite package tracking services because it sports a clean interface, and is powered by AJAX. To get started you enter in a tracking number, hit the submit button, and you’ll instantly see the results. If you decide against creating an account the tracking numbers will still be stored in their database using your IP address.

TrackThePack

–TrackMyShipments (Homepage)–

Works with UPS, FedEx, DHL, and USPS.

TrackMyShipments is a unique service that makes package tracking a piece of cake. All you have to do is signup for the free service with the email address that you use when ordering your items. Then just forward any emails containing tracking numbers to track@trackmyshipments.com, and the tracking information will magically start appearing in your account.

One of the reasons that I like this service is that all of your information is available from any computer, thereby making it easy to track your packages even when you’re on-the-go. You’ll also get quick access to the email that you forwarded to the service in case you need to grab additional order information.

TrackMyShipments

[via Lifehacker]

–iSnoop (Homepage)–

Works with UPS, FedEx, DHL, and USPS.

When you track packages with iSnoop you’re provided with an easily bookmarkable URL so that you can jump back to see your tracking status at anytime. You’ll also see how your package has moved from one point to another via Google Maps.

The most notable feature, in my opinion, is the RSS tracking option. Each item that you track on iSnoop will have an RSS feed available so that you can receive tracking updates right in your feed reader. If you’re always buried in your feed reader I think this is a great way to keep up-to-date on your packages’ progress.

Tip: If you’re running Vista there’s also a sidebar gadget available using the data from iSnoop.

iSnoop

–Track Package Extension (Homepage)–

Firefox users get the pleasure of having this extension available at their fingertips. You can use it to recognize tracking numbers on a website or in an email, and then have it take you to the carrier’s official site to see the progress. The extension will also keep a list of the packages you’ve tracked in the past to provide an efficient way of tracking your existing packages:

Track Package Extension

–Overview–

There are likely dozens if not hundreds of different ways to track your packages, and now we would like to hear what your favorite tools are! Hit us up in the comments below with the different ways you stay on top of your online orders.

Copyright © 2011 CyberNet | CyberNet Forum | Learn Firefox

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Jan 19

CyberNotes: How to Customize the Windows XP/Vista Send To Menu

Posted in: CyberNotes, Freeware, Software, Today's Chili, Windows, Windows Vista

This article was written on March 29, 2007 by CyberNet.

CyberNotes
Tutorial Thursday

One of the features that many people overlook in Windows is the “Send To” menu that is presented when you right-click on a file or folder. This menu offers you an array of things you can do with that particular file or folder including compressing it to a ZIP file, emailing it to a friend, and much more.

I have never used the “Send To” menu because it doesn’t offer any features that make it useful, despite it being manually customizable (XP instructions and Vista instructions). I started looking around for something that would really knock my socks off, and I found just the tool…Send To Toys (Download Mirror for version 2.5).

Send To Toys is essentially an application that makes customizing the Send To menu even easier than it already is. It also offers some functionalities that you won’t be able to do without the help of this handy little program:

  • Send To Toys Control Panel Applet allows you to manage the Send To system menu content, and configure the various Send To Toys settings:
    Send To Toys Send To Toys
  • “Add to Send To menu” and “Remove from Send To menu” allows you to personalize the Send To system menu for drives, folders, and programs.
  • Send To “Clipboard (as name)” copies the name of the file or files to the clipboard. Hold down the CTRL key to change the settings for this extension.
  • Send To “Clipboard” command line utility copies the output of a command to the clipboard.

  • Send To “Command Prompt” opens a DOS console window, setting the current directory to the selected file/folder.
  • Send To “Default Mail Recipient” creates a new e-mail with attachments and predefined defaults for the recipients, subject, and message.
  • Send To “Favorites” adds a shortcut to your Favorites list.
  • Send To “Folder…” sends a file or files to another folder, you will be shown a dialog box that lets you choose where the files should be copied, moved, or have a shortcut created.
    Send To Toys
  • Send To “Quick Launch” adds a shortcut to the Quick Launch toolbar.
  • Send To “Recycle Bin” sends a file or files to the Recycle Bin. Hold down the CTRL key to perform a file shredding.
  • Send To “Run…” sends a file or files to the Run command dialog.

The main reason that I wanted to get this utility was for the “Send to Folder…” option. I’m constantly moving files around on my PC and with this tool I can easily copy or move files from one location to another. Since my desktop is the most common place that I move files to, I decided to designate that as my default location, which means I can just select the Folder option from the Send To menu and press enter to move a file or folder to my desktop.

This is a freeware application and after you get it installed there will be both a shortcut in your Start Menu as well as in the Control Panel. It is compatible with Windows 2000, 2003, XP, and Vista so it will work for almost everyone! Give it a try because you might as well try to make the Send To menu actually useful. :)

Send To Toys Homepage (Download Mirror for version 2.5)

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Jan 19

Nocs: A Text Editor That Syncs with Google Docs

Posted in: Freeware, Software, sync, Today's Chili, Windows

This article was written on December 09, 2010 by CyberNet.

google docs editor.png

arrow Windows Windows only arrow
As a geek I always find myself firing up Notepad because of how fast it is, plus it’s nice not being flooded with toolbar buttons. A free utility called Nocs will cater to those that feel the same way about Notepad, but also want some sort of synchronization with Google Docs. One particularly nice feature is that you can have documents auto-save in the background so that you should be able to recover most of your data even if your computer crashes.

Nocs also sports multiple tabs and can handle advanced searches using regular expressions. Here’s a better breakdown of some of the features:

  • Full synchronization with multiple documents open at the same time (tabs).
  • Auto-save files up to every 5 seconds.
  • Supports folder organization (create/delete/rename), and you can specify a default folder to save to.
  • Pin documents to have them auto-loaded when Nocs starts
  • You can sort documents by title or by time updated.
  • Regular expression search/replace.
  • Tip: You can close tabs with by clicking the mouse wheel

I’d say that Nocs isn’t anything fancy, and isn’t much more advanced than Notepad itself. So if you’re not a fan of Notepad you probably won’t use this very much, but if you’re a fan of the plaintext files then Nocs might be right up your alley.

Nocs Homepage (Windows only; Freeware)
Note: I had problems installing this on Windows 7 because it said I didn’t have .NET 4.0 installed, but I did. It turns out you need the full thing installed, which is not what their installer links to in their prompt to get .NET Framework 4.0.

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Jan 18

Recover Stolen Laptops with Open Source Adeona

Posted in: Freeware, Linux, Mac, Software, Today's Chili, Windows

This article was written on August 20, 2008 by CyberNet.

adeona.png

arrow Windows Windows; Mac Mac; Linux Linux arrow
A few months ago we wrote about a free application that was able to track stolen computers, and today we’ve got an open source alternative for you. It’s called Adeona, and it’s interesting how it works. After setting it up you’ll be given a file that is used to identify your computer in the event it gets stolen or lost. It’s recommended that you put that file in a secure location, or email it to yourself.

Once you lose your computer you’ll be able to call up the Adeona Recovery application, give it the file you stashed away in a safe place, and it will try to remotely fetch pertinent information from your stolen computer. The information you’ll be able to retrieve includes:

  • Internal IP address – This is your Internet location as reported by the operating system.
  • External IP address – This is your Internet location obtained by asking a web server like checkip.dyndns.org.
  • Nearby routers – These are network routers obtained by doing a traceroute to randomly selected PlanetLab computers. Usually, the names of network routers you are using can give a clue about your geographical location.
  • Access point – This is the name of the wireless hotspot you are connected to, can also give a clue about your location. Note that the Windows version simply reads a registry key that might contain stale information or no information on the current access point (for example, if one is not using the Windows-provided wireless management tools.)
  • Photos (Macs only) – The location-finding component takes a picture using isightcapture before sending an update to OpenDHT. If a thief was using the laptop, you could get a photo of them.

There’s no saying as to whether this would actually help in the retrieval of your computer, but it certainly couldn’t hurt. Here’s a guide that will help you when setting up Adeona, and another guide that explains the retrieval process.

Get Adeona for Windows, Mac, or Linux

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Jan 18

Helpful Tip: Disable UAC for a Program in Vista

Posted in: Freeware, Newly Released, Software, Today's Chili, Windows Vista

This article was written on May 23, 2008 by CyberNet.

disable uac vista.pngI’ve read about how a lot of people have chosen to disable User Account Control (UAC) in Vista because of the headaches that can result from it. That’s mostly because of applications that have not yet been programmed to run in a general user mode, and they are still accustomed to running as a privileged user just as they did in XP.

If you’ve chosen to leave UAC enabled then there are a few different ways you can selectively bypass the UAC prompt without disabling it all together. One way is to take ownership of files, but there is also another rather clever method that takes advantage of the Task Scheduler. Here’s some background as to how it works:

Few days ago I tried to run some scheduled task that required admin privileges. After some investigation I found out that you can specify that scheduled task can run using highest privileges.

These scheduled tasks don’t prompt you with UAC. First idea that came to my mind was – OK, so if scheduled task runs on demand, then it should in fact disable UAC for specific program? I tried it and it worked… So for some time I was using on demand scheduled tasks – for example instead of running MMC I run Schtasks /Run /TN “Elevated\MMC”.

The end result is a context menu entry that shows up whenever you right-click on a file or shortcut (as pictured above). It’s labeled “Elevate me,” and works exactly as advertised. When you select that option from the menu the program runs as an administrator without a single UAC prompt.

To confirm this I ran the command line and tried to release my IP address. When running the command line normally it wouldn’t let me make the change, but using the “Elevate me” option made it possible to release my IP. And I never had a UAC prompt asking if I wanted to confirm the action.

You can also turn this into a shortcut so that you won’t even have to right-click on a file to elevate it, but you really only have to do that if a particular program always needs to run as an administrator.

Download Elevator [via Lifehacker]

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Jan 17

The Linux Penguin Qualifies for the Indy 500

Posted in: Freeware, Linux, Software, Today's Chili

This article was written on May 24, 2007 by CyberNet.

Tux 500The Linux community has always been known to be very dedicated to the open source cause, and this is just more proof of that. Instead of just donating money to a Linux project, Tux500.com decided to take a different route (no pun intended) by promoting the operating system.

There will be a blue car bearing number 77 in the Indy 500 on Sunday with the Linux Penguin blessing its journey. The site’s initial goal was an ambitious $350,000 which would have gained them a primary sponsorship. That would have gotten the Linux logo plastered all over the car and the team name would contain “Team Linux” in it. However, they were only able to get about $16,000 raised which is considered a minor sponsorship, and so the Linux logo was placed on the front hood of the car.

For the next day and a half the Tux 500 site will still be taking donations, so if you have some money to spare I’m sure they’d love your help in covering more of the costs.

CNet also has a nice image gallery available if you want to see more pictures of the car in action. Otherwise you can tune into the Indy 500 on Sunday starting at 2PM Central Time.

Thanks to CoryC for the tip!

Tux500

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Jan 17

CyberSearch 2.0.2 Released

Posted in: Firefox Extensions, Freeware, Software, Today's Chili

This article was written on November 04, 2009 by CyberNet.

cybersearch_fulllogo.png

For those of you using CyberSearch I thought I’d let you know that I just released version 2.0.2 that resolves almost all of the issues users were reporting with Firefox 3.6 Beta 1. The main reason I wanted to let everyone know is that Mozilla hasn’t approved CyberSearch 2.0 yet, which means you won’t receive an update notification in the browser. If you want to update to the latest version you’ll need to head on over to the CyberSearch homepage and install it from there.

I’ve also rolled up several bug fixes in this release, and one simple feature that I meant to include with the original release but never got around to fully implementing it. It’s so simple that I wouldn’t be surprised if you used it without even realizing it. What is it? Pressing the Escape key when you have a result selected should repopulate the address bar with your search phrase. This should be natural for most people… you use the keyboard to highlight a few results, decide they aren’t want you want, and press the Escape key to “cancel” the selection.

I’m trying to make this as user-friendly as possible, and since the release I’ve received over 300 emails that include feature requests, bugs (mostly reports from Firefox 3.6 Beta users… thanks everyone!), and a lot of “thank you” messages. A majority of the feature requests I’ve gotten are great ideas, but won’t be implemented because they stray from my original vision. For example, I’ve received numerous requests to offer the same search functionality in the search box instead of the address bar. The whole goal of CyberSearch is giving you the tools you need to drop the search box all together. So don’t be offended if I don’t agree with your ideas… right now I feel as though I’m teetering on the edge of having something so complicated that no one will want to use it. For that reason I’m very selective with what gets added, and also because CyberSearch currently has over 100,000 users (123,000 at its peak) that I have to take into consideration.

I think I’ve been able to personally respond to every email, but if I haven’t by now feel free to shoot me another one.

CyberSearch Homepage

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