5.11

Google Chrome and Google Apps are a natural marriage, and Google Apps Shortcuts is the matchmaker. It's a free extension that adds Google Apps to the Chrome interface. If you haven't tried Google Apps, it's worth checking out. It gives quick access to the Google applications you use every day, such as Gmail, Google Docs, and Contacts. Chrome is already fast; Google Apps Shortcuts makes it a lot more versatile.

Google extensions install automatically when you open their download links in Chrome. We merely clicked to allow the browser to add Google Apps Shortcuts, and Chrome did … Read more

We all have reasons for craving our privacy, some more socially questionable than others. No matter. As a computer user, it's within your power (and your rights, darnit!) to keep your browsing from others' eyes, be they actively prying or innocently perusing.

Here's the good news. Internet Explorer, Firefox, Chrome, and Opera all contain a private browsing mode that won't leave tracks as you intrepidly explore the Web. That's excellent if you're trying to keep your activities under wraps, but unfortunate if you accidentally forget to switch back and forth as you transition from your … Read more

FET - Free Timetabling Software is a timekeeping tool that helps schools manage their teacher and classroom schedules. This program and its interface are so basic that a visit to the Help file is required to get started.

When we opened the program for the first time, a plain window appeared with no directions for how to begin. The Help section provides instructions for how to use the program, but be prepared to spend some time reading the lengthy text. The instructions would be easier to follow if there were step-by-step screenshots. We tried entering some dummy data into the … Read more

CyberMatrix Class Scheduler provides users with a simple way to keep classes, students and even grades organized. With simple directions and an unmistakable layout, this program will appeal to a lot of academic users.

The program's interface should not be difficult for even novice users to manage. Its commands are controlled by wizard-like screens that walk you through steps using simple commands and intuitive buttons. For those still not in tune, the program provides a great Help file. The program mimics the looks of an Excel spreadsheet, creating a cross section where days of the week and times of … Read more

Last year, 5.11 Tactical, which makes clothes and gear aimed at law enforcement officers (but sells to civilians), announced a new high-tech flashlight called Light for Life. Only recently, however, has it become available to order.

What's special about it? Well, the flashlight uses three LEDs, but its key component is Flashpoint Power technology, an ultracapacitor energy storage system from Ivus Energy Innovations.

Light for Life recharges in just 90 seconds and shines at 90 lumens for 90 minutes per charge. The flashlight has three modes: bright (270 peak lumens), standard (90 lumens), and strobe, which is good for dance parties or scaring the neighbors' dog and kids (OK, I'm kidding, but you get the picture).

According to 5.11 Tactical, the 50,000-hour LEDs never have to be replaced and the flashlight is engineered to "offer 10 years of maintenance-free service under typical conditions." (You can recharge it up 50,000 times or one time a day for 135 years.)

I got a chance to play around with the thing at a recent event, and I have to say I was pretty impressed. It's lighter (16 ounces) than it looks, and it feels very durable. The one question I asked was: what happens when the power goes out and you have to recharge the thing? Answer: it comes with a 12V DC automotive charger, so you can use your car to charge it up in the event of a power outage.

The only drawback: Light for Life costs a whopping $169.99. But 5.11 Tactical says that when you add up the cost of all those D batteries over the lifetime of a battery-powered police flashlight, it's still a deal. And then there's all that good karma you get for not chucking those batteries into the garbage or landfill. It's hard to put a price on that.

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EF Process Manager helps computer users take a look under their hard drive's hood. But with an overwhelming amount of information in a tight space, users might need to take extra time to warm up to it.

This program's appearance is sure to make a user's head spin, unless they already have an intimate knowledge of their computer. Two claustrophobic screens of strange words and changing numbers is a real time representation of the processes and modules in your hard drive. The Help file focuses more on how to execute commands and less on defining this confusing … Read more