2.3.4

Download Internet video faster with SpeedBit Video Accelerator for Mac

Even those with high-speed Internet connections often find Internet videos take time to buffer before playing. SpeedBit Video Accelerator for Mac tries to address this problem by accelerating video downloads, but with poor, if any, results.

While the initial program is free in a trial version, use of the full program requires a yearly subscription of $24.95. The trial version only allows video acceleration of SD videos. Upgrading to the paid version allows functions on HD video and acceleration of iTunes downloads. The program was small, but this did not translate to an easy installation. The process to install … Read more

Scan files and folders for virus and malware with free ClamXav for Mac

ClamXav for Mac is an open-source virus checker. Available from the App Store and many download locations, ClamXav for Mac installs quickly. The app is free, but donations through Paypal are requested.

ClamXav for Mac has a simple interface that displays a set of basic scan options and a larger window to show infected or suspect files. With updated definitions downloaded automatically, ClamXav for Mac can monitor your Mac in real-time, or you can install and run it on an existing system. To scan specific files or folders, simply drag them onto the ClamXav for Mac icon (handy for USB … Read more

Track your PC use on the go with ManicTime Portable

ManicTime is personal time-tracking software from a developer called Finkit d.o.o. ManicTime's Standard version is free for personal use, though there's a Professional version that adds more features, if you should need them. Most users will find the free version more than up to the task. That task is to track how and when you use your computer: when you're at it and when you're away, which apps you used and for how long, and lots of other data. Time-tagging lets you see exactly what you were doing and when. With your data, ManicTime … Read more

LG Spectrum review: 'HD' is its middle name

If you don't mind a slab of a phone that really does resemble a king-size candy bar, then feast your eyes on the LG Spectrum.

If the clean lines and checkered back cover don't win you over, then perhaps the 4.5-inch screen, Verizon's LTE speeds, and 720p HD display will.

LG doesn't stop there, either. The 8-megapixel camera/camcorder can shoot video in 1080p HD, and LG and Verizon have preloaded a trio of HD apps that optimize high-definition video playback.

The Spectrum isn't immune to flaws, though, and the handset is seeing fierce … Read more

Headache-inducing

A successful project management program can help you pull together all of the pieces to ensure that a project runs smoothly from start to finish. PlanningForce Express Planner tries to be that program, but it suffers from a lack of direction and frequent error messages. It leaves a lot to be desired.

Red flags appeared right away when we started the program, or tried to: it wasn't readily apparent how to get started with PlanningForce. The program's Help feature only offered links to About and Welcome pages and a way to check for updates, and the Welcome Page … Read more

Kyocera Echo gets Android 2.3 Gingerbread update

The dual-screen Kyocera Echo has become the latest Android smartphone to receive Android 2.3.4 Gingerbread. The update includes many of the standard Gingerbread features, along with pinch-to-zoom support, a Swype 3.0 virtual keyboard, and an improved downloads application.

Kyocera also is including a new Eco mode that's specifically designed for the Echo, which gives users the ability to better manage battery life. The application will change various power settings on the handset once it hits a preset, user-determined point. So for example, when the device reaches its chosen battery percentage, it will begin to conserve power … Read more