New Technology Reviews!.: downloads

Converting Your Trial Or Free Version Into Full Version

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<img alt="time stopper, use Trial Version Forever without Expiration" data-mce-src="http://www.techmynd.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/04/time-stopper1-500x500.jpg" height="500" src="http://www.techmynd.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/04/time-stopper1-500x500.jpg" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px;" title="time stopper, use Trial Version Forever without Expiration" width="500"></div>
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On reading the topic don't worry it is very easy to do. You are not going to hack the software. Just going to use it in a different way. Read on.</div>
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Ever wondered that ‘how to installtrial versionagain?‘ or even better than that like ‘how to use atrial versionforever?‘ or ‘How to stoptrial time?‘</div>
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Converting Your Trial Or Free Version Into Full Version

On reading the topic don't worry it is very easy to do. You are not going to hack the software. Just going to use it in a diffe...

Android Market Updated, Adds +1 Button and Pin Code Security [Download]

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<img alt="" class="aligncenter" height="285" mce_src="http://img651.imageshack.us/img651/4804/market540x475.jpg" src="http://img651.imageshack.us/img651/4804/market540x475.jpg" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; clear: both; color: #444444; display: block; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 12px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; max-width: 640px;" title="Market" width="324" />It appears another update for Google’s Android Market is starting to roll out today. This isn’t much of a change like we saw a few weeks ago but we do get a few very welcomed changed and additions to the market. What we have here are a few improvements as well as the introduction of the Google +1 button for apps and games.</div>
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The biggest change to the new market that is rolling out now and available to download (below) is Google added some new security features that users have been asking and hoping to see for a long time. We now have the same pin code lock/unlock security option as we’ve always had, but now another level placed on the Android market. Now you can choose to have a PIN for opening the Android market this way no one can purchase unwanted applications on your phone.</div>
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The new PIN code security is a great feature for those that have kids that love to accidentally buy apps, or that just don’t ask first. This is a great feature to have and something I’ve been waiting to see for a while now. For those that don’t want to wait for the new Market version 3.1.3 to hit your own device feel free to download it with the link below and start enjoying the new features right away.</div>
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Android Market Updated, Adds +1 Button and Pin Code Security [Download]

It appears another update for Google’s Android Market is starting to roll out today. This isn’t much of a change like we saw a few weeks...

Verizon LTE Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 is Rooted and Hacked to Run Netflix

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This isn’t much of a surprise, since we’ve already seen root for the
Google IO and retail WiFi versions of the Galaxy Tab 10.1, but happy
news none-the-less. Verizon’s new LTE-toting version of the world’s
slimmest Android tablet is officially rooted thanks to the fellows at
XDA. With root comes all your favorite hacks and mods, including the
ability to stream your Netflix movies, over that screaming fast LTE.

Rooting, gives you superuser access to your phone, something many
won’t have a use for, but for the more hack-inclined, it can be
critical. Getting root can vary in difficulty, but luckily this one is
fairly straightforward. All you have to do is download the exploit .zip
file, move it to the internal storage, reboot into recovery, and flash
it.

Using your new found root access, you can hit up XDA’s forums to
find different hacks and mods for your enjoyment. Among these is the
ability to run Netflix. Once again you just flash a .zip in recovery,
and install a supplied apk, and voila! movies!

All the downloads, details, and instructions are available over at
XDA. As always, make sure you backup important files when messing
around with recovery or root. Be sure to read through all the
instructions and make sure you understand what to do before you take
the plunge. Once you are all prepped, dive in and revel in your freedom!</div>

Verizon LTE Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 is Rooted and Hacked to Run Netflix

This isn’t much of a surprise, since we’ve already seen root for the Google IO and retail WiFi versions of the Galaxy Tab 10.1, but happy...

Despite strong start, iPad magazines not faring well over time

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There's good news and bad news on the iPad publication front. First of all, lots of iPad magazines seem to be having respectable launches -- Wired's first iPad edition did a full 100,000 downloads earlier this year, and other magazines have seen similarly large numbers at launch, as customers download the app or content just to see what it's like. But that content doesn't seem to be holding anyone's attention, <a href="http://www.wwd.com/media-news/fashion-memopad/memo-pad-magazines-not-that-app-y-3409693?src=rss/media/20101229">as most publications are seeing major drops</a> over the rest of the year. Magazines like GQ, Vanity Fair, and Glamour have seen about a 20 percent user drop off per month from September to November, at a time when there were more iPads available than ever. 
 
Reports say publishers are still hopeful -- they believe that solid holiday sales of Apple's tablet device could bring customers back after the new year. But numbers like these won't get anyone excited in publishing more iPad content, unfortunately. By the time there are enough iPad customers out there to make a digital publication on that platform worth it, publishers may have lost interest. 
<h6></h6><a href="http://www.wwd.com/media-news/fashion-memopad/memo-pad-magazines-not-that-app-y-3409693?src=rss/media/20101229">Source</a>

Despite strong start, iPad magazines not faring well over time

There's good news and bad news on the iPad publication front. First of all, lots of iPad magazines seem to be having respectable launch...

In Depth: 60 best free PC software downloads from Microsoft

<img src="http://cdn.mos.techradar.com//Review%20images/Windows%20Vista/51/OWV51.f_lead.opener-200-200.jpg"> Chances are, you know that alongside Windows and Office, Microsoft makes a number of apps that are free for all. But the actual number might just surprise you. When we started counting up all the best free Microsoft apps, we thought we'd find 20 or 30. In the end, by the time we'd reached 60, we realised we'd have to stop, just to fit them all in. And because this is Microsoft, these apps aren't just OK, they're good. Great, even. There's a free program or service for just about every aspect of PC use, from headline-grabbers such as Windows Live Essentials and Microsoft Office Web Apps to smaller but no less useful tools such as Microsoft Autoruns, Security Essentials and Desktops. It's not just about work, either; Microsoft is responsible for lots of apps that are enjoyable and fun to use. See through the eyes of the world's telescopes, play a game or two or – better still – create your own with Kodu Game Lab. The list just keeps on growing. Some of the programs here are unfinished, and clearly marked as such. That means there's a chance you may run into problems using them – nothing major, but take a System Restore point before you proceed, just in case. We also recommend you don't attempt to install every program in this list in one go; you'll quickly bring your computer to its knees. Instead, pick out tools that excite you and give them a go. With the Windows Live apps, you can choose the ones you want when you download the Windows Live Installer program. So, what are you waiting for? You're about to make your PC more efficient, secure and fun without spending a thing. Microsoft Office Web Apps <a href="http://www.office.live.com%20/">www.office.live.com </A> This must be one of the company's biggest giveaways; you can now have access to the core features of Office Word, Excel, PowerPoint and OneNote for free through your web browser. Just log on with your Windows Live ID to create new documents or upload existing ones from your computer to your Windows Live SkyDrive account, then edit them in your browser window. Even if you already own a copy of Microsoft Office, this useful freebie enables you to access your documents from any webconnected computer. Windows Live Mail <a href="http://explore.live.com/windows-live-mail?os=winxp">explore.live.com/windows-live-mail </A> It's simply the best free email tool there is – essential for Windows 7 users, and a step up from both Microsoft Outlook Express and Windows Mail, too. Reasons to upgrade? It works brilliantly with multiple email accounts, gives you offline access to web-based providers such as Hotmail and Gmail and organises your mail intelligently into conversations. <img alt="Live mail" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/Review%20images/Windows%20Vista/51/OWV51.f_lead.livemail-420-90.jpg" width="420"></IMG> It also integrates cleverly with a built-in calendar, enabling you to organise your life, too. Windows 7 and Windows Vista users can also enjoy the new photo email option, which enables you to share dozens of pictures without clogging up other people's inboxes. Windows Live Hotmail <a href="http://www.mail.live.com%20/">www.mail.live.com </A> The beauty of a web-based email account such as Windows Live Hotmail is that it enables you to access your messages from wherever you happen to be. If you log on through your browser, you can also reap the benefits of lots of other useful features, such as a junk mail filter and access to your other accounts, calendar and contacts list. Outlook Connector Pack <a href="http://explore.live.com/outlook-hotmail-connector-pack">explore.live.com/outlook-hotmail-connector-pack </A> If you want to get access to Hotmail in Microsoft Outlook 2003 or later, install this add-on, which comes with Windows Live Essentials 2011. Once it's set up, just create a new account in Outlook, choosing the option to manually configure when prompted to access the Microsoft Outlook Hotmail Connector option. Free Microsoft Office Templates <a href="http://office.microsoft.com/en-gb/templates/templates-FX010059549.aspx">www.office.microsoft.com/en-gb/templates </A> Need some inspiration for, or a helping hand with, your next Office document? Just visit the Templates section of the Office website (see the link above), where you'll find a mind-boggling number of useful options. They're divided up into dozens of categories, which cover all of the major Office applications, and can be accessed through each of the individual Office programs when you create a new document. Microsoft Producer For PowerPoint <a href="http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/en/details.aspx?FamilyId=1B3C76D5-FC75-4F99-94BC-784919468E73&displaylang=en">www.office.microsoft.com/en-gb/downloads/redir/DC001075497.aspx </A> This free-to-use add-on for PowerPoint makes it incredibly simple to create web-based presentations from existing PowerPoint slides. You can also use it in association with other media sources, such as video, audio and images. You'll need to use the Microsoft Office Animation Runtime plug-in unless you're running Office 2007 – a handy download link is provided on the Microsoft Producer download page. pptPlex <a href="http://www.officelabs.com/projects/pptPlex/Pages/default.aspx">www.officelabs.com/projects/pptPlex/Pages/default.aspx </A> This tool enables you to zoom into and out of your PowerPoint slides, as well as jump between non-sequential ones. Once it's installed, launch PowerPoint and view the video tutorial to find out how to use it. Forgotten Attachment Detector <a href="http://www.officelabs.com/projects/forgottenattachmentdetector/Pages/default.aspx">www.officelabs.com/projects/forgottenattachmentdetector </A> Do you often forget to attach files to important emails? Stop embarrassment by installing this add-on for Outlook 2007 and 2010. It flashes up a warning if it thinks you've forgotten to include attachments with your message. Free images and clip-art <a href="http://office.microsoft.com/en-gb/images/images-FX010132103.aspx">www.office.microsoft.com/en-gb/images </A> <img alt="images" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/Review%20images/Windows%20Vista/51/OWV51.f_lead.images-420-90.jpg" width="420"></IMG> Need to jazz up an Office document with some relevant imagery? Thousands upon thousands of free photos, clip art and other illustrations are available at the Office website – download individual pictures through the site or use the Microsoft Clip Organizer tool (part of Office). Noreplyall Outlook Add-in <a href="http://research.microsoft.com/en-us/projects/researchdesktop/noreplyall.aspx">www.research.microsoft.com/en-us/projects/researchdesktop/noreplyall.aspx </A> This tiny extension adds two buttons to the Ribbon in Outlook 2007 and 2010, enabling you to prevent people in the same organisation from forwarding or clicking Reply to all when they get the email you're about to send out. Microsoft Office Compatibility Pack <a href="http://support.microsoft.com/kb/923505">www.support.microsoft.com/kb/923505</A> This tool enables users of Office 2000, XP and 2003 to open, edit and save documents in the new 2007 formats in Word, Excel and PowerPoint. Install it and the functionality is immediately available in Office's File Open and Save As dialogue boxes. Ribbon Hero <a href="http://www.officelabs.com/ribbonhero">www.officelabs.com/ribbonhero </A> The Ribbon interface was a great step forward for Office 2007 and 2010, but if you want to get the most of it, install Ribbon Hero. It monitors what you do in Office and makes suggestions as to which features you should learn about that could help you do your work more efficiently. It also helps you learn about the Ribbon interface using games and tasks that can be played with your friends and colleagues. Canvas for OneNote 2007/2010 <a href="http://www.officelabs.com/canvasforonenote">www.officelabs.com/canvasforonenote </A> Struggling to stay on top of your notes? This standalone app enables you to view, edit and organise your notes as though you'd laid them all out in front of you on a desk for easy access. Click a section to zoom in on it. You can then view and edit individual notes quickly and easily in the usual way. Microsoft Office Viewers <a href="http://www.office.microsoft.com/en-gb/downloads/office-online-file-convertersand-viewers-HA001044981.aspx">Website</A> Don't have access to a copy of Office on another computer? You can now install special Viewers for Microsoft Word, Excel, Access, Visio or PowerPoint documents, enabling you to open, look at and print your work without having to download Office. Microsoft SharedView <a href="http://connect.microsoft.com/site94">www.connect.microsoft.com/site94 </A> This online meeting tool can be used for both professional and personal collaborations. Just log on using your Windows Live ID and start a session – it works like Windows Meeting Space in Windows 7, except that the program functions with Windows Vista and Windows XP, too. It also enables you to share individual applications, or even your entire desktop, and distribute important files as handouts. TrueSpace 7.61 <a href="http://www.caligari.com/">www.caligari.com </A> Imagine this: an incredibly powerful 3D modelling application that's yours for free! TrueSpace enables you to create 3D models, landscapes and photo-realistic objects for all kinds of purposes via a point-and-click interface – you can even use it to design your dream home. Head to the Caligari website for a helpful series of comprehensive tutorials that will familiarise you with this powerful tool. IEToys <a href="http://www.bayden.com/ietoys/">www.bayden.com/ietoys</A> Add extra features to Internet Explorer with this free collection of add-ons, most of which are accessible simply by right-clicking the page or selected text. Hide distracting images from a web page, look up words in an online dictionary, encyclopedia or search engine, and fix malformed web links. IEToys also automatically optimises Internet Explorer to take advantage of fast broadband connections when downloading files. Desktops <a href="http://technet.microsoft.com/en-gb/sysinternals/cc817881.aspx">technet.microsoft.com/en-gb/sysinternals/cc817881.aspx</A> <img alt="Desktops" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/Review%20images/Windows%20Vista/51/OWV51.f_lead.desktops-420-90.jpg" width="420"></IMG> Too many open windows? Desktops enables you to organise programs and windows in up to four virtual desktops – switch via the Notification tray icon or by assigning hotkeys; perfect for comparing several open windows without having to resort to the taskbar. PageDefrag <a href="http://technet.microsoft.com/en-gb/sysinternals/bb897426.aspx">technet.microsoft.com/en-gb/sysinternals/bb897426.aspx </A> This tool enables Windows XP users to examine and – if necessary – defragment key system files when the PC is next restarted, giving their computer a performance boost. Internet Explorer <a href="http://www.microsoft.com/windows/internet-explorer/default.aspx">www.microsoft.com/ie</A> Are you running the latest version of Internet Explorer on your PC? Windows 7 comes with version 8 already installed, but Windows XP and Windows Vista users should update to the latest model for better performance. You can also try the upcoming Internet Explorer 9, which promises speedy browsing among other advanced features. Microsoft Fix It Center <a href="http://fixitcenter.support.microsoft.com/Portal">fixitcenter.support.microsoft.com/Portal </A> Microsoft offers a collection of quick-fix tools to accompany many Microsoft Knowledge Base articles, and the Fix It Center troubleshooters bring them all under one roof, giving you quick and easy access to a wide range of solutions. The program is currently in beta, and only available for Windows XP and Windows Vista. Windows 7 users are directed to the Microsoft Fix It Solution Center, where the tools are available as standalone downloads. Malicious Software Removal Tool <a href="http://www.microsoft.com/security/malwareremove/">www.microsoft.com/security/malwareremove </A> This is designed to detect and remove a wide range of known infections from your computer. It can't protect you against viruses in the first place – that's a job for your security software – but if something gets on to your system, it may be able to help with removing it. The program is updated once a month through Windows Update, when it scans your computer for possible infections; to run it manually, download it from the link above. Microsoft Baseline Security Analyzer <a href="http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/security/cc184924.aspx">technet.microsoft.com/en-us/security/cc184924.aspx </A> Give your computer, as well as any other networked PCs you use, a once-over for security problems with this free tool. It works by verifying that your system is fully patched with the latest Windows updates, and examines it for specific areas of weakness. For example, it can flag up whether or not adequate protective software has been installed. RichCopy <a href="http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/magazine/2009.04.utilityspotlight.aspx">technet.microsoft.com/en-us/magazine/2009.04.utilityspotlight.aspx </A> RichCopy is designed to speed up large file transfers over the network, mainly by copying multiple files at once to make maximum use of your network's bandwidth. It's aimed largely at power users – click Settings to see a bewildering array of options – but it can also be used simply by choosing your source and destination directories (click Connect to select your network destination), then clicking the Copy button to let it perform its magic. Windows Search 4.0 <a href="http://support.microsoft.com/kb/940157">www.support.microsoft.com/kb/940157 </A> Windows XP users jealous of how quickly searches are performed in Windows 7 and Windows Vista can benefit from the same super-fast technology with Windows Search 4.0. Once installed, allow time for your drive's contents to be indexed and then use the Search box on the taskbar to gain quick and easy access to all your precious files, wherever they're hiding. AutoRuns <a href="http://technet.microsoft.com/en-gb/sysinternals/bb963902.aspx">technet.microsoft.com/en-gb/sysinternals/bb963902.aspx </A> Start-up programs hit Windows performance twice over – firstly by extending the time it takes to start Windows, and then by hogging valuable system resources, giving your computer less to work with. Autoruns enables you to see what's starting with Windows, identify unknown items and disable or delete anything nonessential to make your computer faster. Windows 7 and Windows Vista users should run the program as an Administrator in order to make changes. ClearType Tuner Power Toy <a href="http://www.microsoft.com/typography/cleartypepowertoy.mspx">www.microsoft.com/typography/cleartypepowertoy.mspx </A> This enables you to calibrate your display to make your text sharper, clearer and more legible, which can only help those tired eyes. It's built into Windows 7, while Windows XP users can download a Control Panel applet from the Microsoft Typography website; Windows Vista users should use the online tool to calibrate their displays. Windows Live Messenger <a href="http://explore.live.com/windows-live-messenger?os=winxp">explore.live.com/windows-live-messenger </A> Microsoft's instant messaging tool has come of age – the 2011 version is designed to be the social hub of your online life, giving you access to social networking sites and your Windows Live account. Behind all of this is the same great chat tool, perfect for staying in touch via text, voice and video. Windows Live Writer <a href="http://explore.live.com/windows-live-writer?os=winxp">explore.live.com/windows-live-writer </A> One of the drawbacks of blogging is that it usually has to be done through your browser while you're online. Windows Live Writer changes that – you can access your page through a more civilised interface, composing posts offline and publishing them when you're good and ready. Windows Live Movie Maker <a href="http://explore.live.com/windows-live-movie-maker?os=winxp">explore.live.com/windows-live-movie-maker </A> You'll be surprised at how easy transforming a collection of video clips and photos into a movie can be. Windows Live Movie Maker ensures it's a breeze without compromising on quality – with just a few clicks, your movie can be burned to DVD or distributed over the internet via YouTube. And with HD support, you can really make the most of your camera's capabilities. Yule Log Visualisation <a href="http://seanalexander.com/2009/12/01/downloads-spruce-up-your-holidays-with-windows-7/">Website</A> Warm your cockles – virtually speaking – with this visualisation of a roaring fire, designed for Windows Media Player. Access it by switching to the Now Playing mode, then right-click to the left of the playback controls and select Visualizations ? Yule Log ? Yule Log. Perfect for Christmas time. Kodu Game <a href="http://fuse.microsoft.com/project/kodu.aspx">fuse.microsoft.com/project/kodu.aspx </A> <img alt="Kodu game" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/Review%20images/Windows%20Vista/51/OWV51.f_lead.kodu-420-90.jpg" width="420"></IMG> Why get frustrated playing other people's games when you can design your own from scratch? Kodu Game Lab employs a simple point-and-click interface – it's aimed at children, but adults will appreciate the efforts made to make programming more enjoyable. We recommend checking out the video tutorial before you begin. Windows Media Player 11 <a href="http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows/products/windows-media-player">www.microsoft.com/windows/windowsmedia/player </A> If you're still running Windows XP, upgrading to version 11 of Media Player is a must. The interface is slicker and friendlier, burning CDs is less troublesome and a new Sync tab ensures that sharing music with your portable device is easy. Windows Live Photo Gallery <a href="http://explore.live.com/windows-live-photo-gallery?os=winxp">explore.live.com/windows-live-photo-gallery </A> Import, organise and edit your photo collection without hassle using this powerful cataloguing tool. Windows Live Photo Gallery also boasts some nifty ways of sharing your photos, with tools for creating panoramas, slideshows and even movies. Once complete, you can upload your pictures to various online services, or send them in a photo email. Microsoft Image Composite Editor <a href="http://research.microsoft.com/en-us/um/redmond/groups/ivm/ICE/">www.research.microsoft.com/en-us/um/redmond/groups/ivm/ICE </A> <img alt="Microsoft ice" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/Review%20images/Windows%20Vista/51/OWV51.f_lead.ice-420-90.jpg" width="420"></IMG> Stitch together several overlapping photos to create a widescreen panorama. It can be saved as a single file or shared through the PhotoSynth website (see opposite). Microsoft Silverlight <a href="http://www.microsoft.com/getsilverlight/Get-Started/Install/Default.aspx">www.microsoft.com/getsilverlight </A> Many interactive websites and several applications require the free Microsoft Silverlight plug-in to be installed before you can enjoy their content. Get it from the web address above or install it as part of Windows Live Essentials. Microsoft Zune Player <a href="http://www.zune.net/en-GB/">www.zune.net</A> This online music and video store has expanded to include unlimited music streaming as well as sales of songs and movies. All of this is accessible through the sleek Zune Player, which is worth looking at as an alternative to Media Player, even if you don't plan on using the service. Games For Windows - Live <a href="http://www.microsoft.com/games/en-gb/Live/Pages/livelaunch.aspx">www.microsoft.com/games/en-gb/Live/Pages/livelaunch.aspx </A> This program puts you in touch with millions of other gamers, offering in-game chat and messaging to boost the atmosphere and add an extra edge to your experience. After you've signed in you'll be able to download a game, Tinker, for free. Bing Maps 3D <a href="http://www.bing.com/maps/">www.bing.com/maps </A> View the web in 3D to make it easier to find and locate the information you're after. You can navigate with your mouse and keyboard to pan, tilt and move around the landscape, and even create your own 3D objects. Worldwide Telescope <a href="http://www.worldwidetelescope.org/Home.aspx">www.worldwidetelescope.org </A> Enjoy the best imagery from the world's ground- and space-based telescopes, including Hubble. Look out for the Guided Tours tab – a great place to get started. Microsoft Photosynth <a href="http://www.photosynth.net/">www.photosynth.net </A> Photosynth goes one step further than Microsoft ICE, enabling you to create a 360° panorama from photos quickly and easily. You'll need to sign up for free access with your Windows Live ID, and your finished results are uploaded to the same site, either for public consumption or private sharing. Server Quest II <a href="http://www.microsoft.com/click/serverquest/">www.microsoft.com/click/serverquest </A> Indulge in some retro gaming with these re-imaginings of classic games, such as King's Quest. The graphics are old-school, but it's a great way to spend a quiet afternoon. Microsoft Photo Story 3 <a href="http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/using/digitalphotography/photostory/default.mspx">Website</A> It may only create a photo slideshow, but Photo Story 3 does it exceptionally well. Import your photos, then follow the wizard to create your sequence, adding captions, transition effects, minor corrections and a soundtrack. The finished collection can be shared online or burned to DVD using Windows DVD Maker. Team Crossword <a href="http://www.teamcrossword.com/">www.teamcrossword.com </A> This game is designed to enable you and a group of friends to tackle puzzles on a daily basis, with the aim of posting the fastest time for completion. It works through your Facebook account, making it easy to share with other people. Bing Twitter Maps <a href="http://fuse.microsoft.com/project/Bing-Twitter-Maps.aspx">fuse.microsoft.com/project/Bing-Twitter-Maps.aspx </A> Another Silverlight plug-in, this enables you to view tweets geographically, letting you see who's posting nearby. Christmas Trivia Pack For Windows Media Center <a href="http://cid-16779c80218545f3.office.live.com/browse.aspx/Holiday%20Fun">Website</A> This zip file holds pictures with Christmas trivia and quiz questions – just copy them into a suitable folder inside My Pictures and direct Windows Media Center to the file via Pictures and Videos. Click Play Slideshow to make them run in the background on your TV. You can also create your own trivia and slides in your image editor. Microsoft Expression Encoder 4 <a href="http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/en/details.aspx?FamilyID=75402be0-c603-4998-a79c-becdd197aa79">Website</A> <img alt="Expression encoder" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/Review%20images/Windows%20Vista/51/OWV51.f_lead.expression-420-90.jpg" width="420"></IMG> Although this tool is targeted at web developers, Expression Encoder 4 has a powerful feature set for video enthusiasts, too. Import clips, edit, de-interlace, crop and add overlay effects, then output the finished result to a WMV file, perfect for sharing over the internet. There's even a handy screen-capture tool built-in, too. You need to install .NET Framework 4.0 to run this program. Virtual PC 2007 <a href="http://www.microsoft.com/windows/virtual-pc/support/virtual-pc-2007.aspx">www.microsoft.com/windows/virtual-pc/support/virtual-pc-2007.aspx </A> While Windows 7 Professional users get Windows XP Mode built-in to resolve compatibility issues, those with Windows XP and Windows Vista can get similar functionality with the Microsoft Virtual PC 2007 program. You need to provide your own legitimate copy of Windows to use it, but once it's set up you'll have access to all your old software again. Note that the add-on throws up a warning about not supporting Home editions of Windows, but it should still work. Insomnia <a href="http://blogs.msdn.com/b/delay/archive/2009/09/30/give-your-computer-insomnia-free-tool-and-source-code-to-temporarily-prevent-a-machine-from-going-to-sleep.aspx">Website</A> This tiny free tool does one thing, and one thing only: when you open the program, it prevents Windows from going to sleep. If you're about to download a large file or burn a DVD and you don't trust your computer to stay awake during the process, this is really handy. Just launch Insomnia and the problem is automatically solved. Windows Live Skydrive <a href="http://skydrive.live.com%20/">skydrive.live.com </A> How would you like a generous 25GB of free, online, password-protected storage space? Well, that's exactly what Windows Live SkyDrive offers – all the extra room you could possibly need to share your favourite photos, important documents and more. It's designed to integrate with other Windows Live services, too – 5GB of it can be synchronised with other computers via Windows Live Mesh, for example, while Office Web Apps also uses it to store your online folders. Windows Live Family Safety <a href="http://explore.live.com/windows-live-essentials?os=winxp">www.essentials.live.com </A> Worried about what your children might be getting up to when they spend time online? This free tool enables you to monitor what they're looking at. If necessary, you can restrict access to the web, programs (including games) and even the computer itself, ensuring that they don't push their boundaries too far. Settings are stored in your Windows Live ID, enabling you to configure the program on multiple PCs in the home. Plus, the latest 2011 version links in with Windows user accounts, making it even easier to run. Windows Live Mesh <a href="http://explore.live.com/windows-live-mesh?os=winxp">explore.live.com/windows-live-mesh</A> If you often work between two or more computers, you'll know how difficult it can be to ensure that the latest versions of your documents are available no matter which machine you're sitting at. Windows Live Mesh doesn't just enable you to synchronise selected folders between PCs and Macs – it keeps your Internet Explorer and Office settings aligned, too. What's more, you don't even need your computers to be switched on and connected at the same time for the program to work – Live Mesh comes complete with 5GB of online storage, which can be used as an additional form of backup. What's not to like? JouleMeter <a href="http://research.microsoft.com/en-us/projects/joulemeter/">www.research.microsoft.com/en-us/projects/joulemeter </A> <img alt="JouleMeter" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/Review%20images/Windows%20Vista/51/OWV51.f_lead.joulemeter-420-90.jpg" width="420"></IMG> Get a decent estimate of your Windows 7 PC's power consumption by installing and running this tool – you can immediately gauge how much electricity your desktop or laptop is using by accessing the taskbar application. Alternatively, run the calibration tool to enable Joulemeter to test your set-up and produce a more accurate assessment. SyncToy 2.1 <a href="http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/en/details.aspx?familyid=C26EFA36-98E0-4EE9-A7C5-98D0592D8C52&displaylang=en">Website</A> This handy tool enables you to keep the contents of two folders – one of which can be a shared file over your network – synchronised. Multiple folder pairs can be created, and you can preview any changes to be made before agreeing to them. Windows Easy Transfer <a href="http://windows.microsoft.com/en-gb/windows7/products/features/windows-easy-transfer">Website</A> You've just bought a new computer with an upgraded version of Windows and are wondering how you'll be able to transfer your key files and settings to it from your current PC. As long as you're running Windows Vista or Windows XP, just download Easy Transfer and let it do all the hard work for you. Windows NT Backup Restore Utility For Windows 7 <a href="http://support.microsoft.com/kb/974674">www.support.microsoft.com/kb/974674 </A> This storage tool, supplied with Windows XP, isn't compatible with later versions of Windows. If you backed up using the program and need access to your data in Windows 7, download this courtesy of Microsoft. After installation you'll find it under Start ? All Programs ? Accessories ? System Tools. ScreenRecorder <a href="http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/magazine/2009.03.utilityspotlight2.aspx?pr=blog">Website</A> This screen-recording program is simple to use: launch the program, select whether to capture the whole screen or a specific open window or program, and start recording. To stop, click the big red button before saving the file in an efficient, compressed format. Windows Memory Diagnostic <a href="http://oca.microsoft.com/en/windiag.asp">oca.microsoft.com/en/windiag.asp </A> Strange behaviour – such as random crashes – could point to problems with, or even failure of, hardware. Find out if your PC's memory is the culprit with the help of this free testing tool. It's included on the Windows 7 and Windows Vista installation discs, but can also be downloaded from the link above and burned to a floppy disk or CD. You'll need ISO Recorder if you're running Windows Vista or Windows XP. Memory Diagnostic will then test your RAM and let you know if it needs checking or replacing.

In Depth: 60 best free PC software downloads from Microsoft

Chances are, you know that alongside Windows and Office, Microsoft makes a number of apps that are free for all. But the actual number migh...

Tutorial: Tips, tricks and downloads for better working on the move

<img src="http://cdn.mos.techradar.com//Review%20images/PC%20Plus/PCP%20302/PCP302.feat1Maximiseproductivity.powerplan-200-200.jpg"> When you spend a lot of time moving between meetings and conferences, most of your work probably gets done away from the ideal office environment. You find yourself catching odd moments to work in waiting rooms, stations, departure lounges and, more often than not, hotel rooms. Your productivity can be slashed unless you plan your time and resources carefully. Most hotels provide access to Wi-Fi, usually via a paid hotspot or an unencrypted connection. These services are begging to be abused by hackers sniffing the data packets flowing between business laptops and the wireless access point. If you handle any sensitive data at all, you need to ensure that it's encrypted. All direct communication between your browser and the access point using unencrypted web pages can be easily accessed and read. Encrypted pages with URLs starting with 'https' are safer because the encryption exists between your browser and the destination site. Anyone sniffing out the communication would need to crack the encryption in order to access the data transferred. Pay close attention to encryption messages from your browser and reject the insecure portions of mixed pages. It's also vital to ensure that potential hackers can't access shared resources on your PC. Be sure to identify any public networks as such so Windows doesn't enable sharing automatically. Also check that your firewall doesn't permit incoming data from anything other than your allowed programs. Windows Firewall isn't ideal, but you can tighten its security significantly if necessary. Click 'Start', type firewall into the search bar and select 'Windows Firewall'. Here you can verify that your connection is correctly identified as a public one. Click 'Allow a program or feature through Windows Firewall', then disable all unnecessary programs in the 'Public network' column. You should also consider installing a third party firewall such as <a href="http://www.zonealarm.com/security/en-us/home.htm">ZoneAlarm</A> or <a href="http://www.comodo.com/home/internet-security/firewall.php">Comodo</A> to replace Windows' offering if you use public networks frequently. Both tools are available as free downloads, and they're pretty easy to set to a lockdown mode, blocking all but web traffic. Check your connection Make sure you check your connection details with the hotel or hotspot provider. A classic hacker trick is to set up a network with a similar SSID to a nearby hotspot, or to provide a honey pot connection called 'Free internet'. These can be used to harvest hotspot passwords and any insecure data you have. Make sure the SSID matches that provided in the hotel's details exactly. Most cloud-based applications use 'https' encryption, but there are some that don't. For example, the free version of Humyo's online storage removes encryption. It goes without saying that you should avoid using these applications for anything other than files that you're completely happy to share with the world. Even those apps that support encryption may not use it as standard. Google Docs does, as do Zoho and Gmail, but it's a good habit to check that your connection is secure by ensuring the URL starts 'https' and your browser indicates that you're on a secure page. Unencrypted data that's transferred from your browser can be picked up easily by another hotspot user. You should also consider the physical security of your laptop. A simple Kensington lock enables you to secure it to your desk or another permanent fixture. Most laptops include a compatible slot to attach the lock so that it can only be removed by damaging the casing if you don't have the key. It's not foolproof – locks can be picked – but it reduces the chances of opportunistic theft. If your laptop were to fall into the wrong hands, how easy would it be for someone unscrupulous to harvest useful data? Are all your passwords stored in your browser? Use a password manager such as <a href="http://www.keepass.info/">Keepass</A>, protected by a strong password and a key file that's not stored on your laptop. Encrypt sensitive files using <a href="http://www.truecrypt.org/">TrueCrypt</A>, or enable BitLocker Drive Encryption if your version of Windows supports it. If you're going to be travelling for some time, you may not be sure when you'll next be able to charge your battery, so take the opportunity to do so while in your room. Consider buying a second battery for your laptop to extend your working time when you're away from power. They're often available on eBay much more cheaply than from the manufacturer. Alternate your batteries to keep them in good condition. Some hotels disconnect the power when you're out of your room; the electronic key card used for unlocking the door needs to be docked in a wall slot for the lights and power sockets to work. It's a good way to ensure you don't leave the air con blasting while you're out, but it also snookers your chances of recharging your laptop while you're having dinner. Try the simple hack of putting a loyalty card or other low value plastic into the slot while you're out so you can keep charging your battery. Maximise your battery life When you're away from a power socket, every second of battery life counts. It therefore pays to keep your laptop's battery in good condition, letting it discharge fully at least once a fortnight to keep its capacity high. Also make use of Windows power plans, and remember to switch to 'Power Saver' whenever you're working from the battery to make each charge last longer. You can make tweaks to the current plan to get more from it, or opt to use a plan manager, which will change the plan automatically to conserve power. 1. Power Plan Assistant <img alt="Power plan assistant" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/Review%20images/PC%20Plus/PCP%20302/PCP302.feat1Maximiseproductivity.battery1-320-100.jpg" width="320"></IMG> You can make switching between plans quick and easy by installing Power Plan Assistant, which you can download from <a href="http://www.powerplan7.com/home.htm">powerplan7.com/home.htm</A>. Once installed, it runs in the system tray and shows the current plan in its coloured icon: red for 'Power Saver', yellow for 'Balanced' and green for 'High Performance'. Click the icon and select the plan you want to change to. 2. Assistant settings <img alt="Power plans assistant config" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/Review%20images/PC%20Plus/PCP%20302/PCP302.feat1Maximiseproductivity.battery2-420-90.jpg" width="420"></IMG> Right-click the 'Power Plan Assistant' icon in the system tray and choose 'Power Plan Assistant Settings'. Select 'On unplugging automatically switch to… | Power Saver'. Return to these settings and then choose 'Save' to confirm them. Alternatively, you can opt to switch to 'Power Saver' mode if your battery's charge drops below a minimum level – say 20 per cent, for example. The emergency plan You might be forced to stay somewhere without usable internet access. If you don't have a 3G dongle, consider enabling internet tethering on your mobile phone. Android phones and iPhones are well suited to tethering – see below for details. Symbian phones with Wi-Fi can use <a href="http://www.joiku.com/">Joikuspot</A> to produce a personal hotspot, which you can connect to with your laptop. Lengthy use of 3G and Wi-Fi together can make your phone hot and draw heavily on its battery, so disconnect it when not in use 1. Android tethering <img alt="PdaNet" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/Review%20images/PC%20Plus/PCP%20302/PCP302.feat1Maximiseproductivity.emergency1-420-90.jpg" width="420"></IMG> Install the <a href="http://www.junefabrics.com/android/index.php">PdaNet</A> phone software (the free version blocks secure sites) and download the PC component. Connect your phone to charge and launch PdaNet. Choose 'Enable USB tether'. On your PC, click the PdaNet icon in the system tray and choose 'Connect'. 2. iPhone tethering With an iPhone running iOS 4, tethering is simple, although you'll need to check that your network supports it. On your phone, go to 'Settings | General | Network | Internet tethering | On'. Choose 'USB only', then connect your phone to your laptop and select the new network.

Tutorial: Tips, tricks and downloads for better working on the move

When you spend a lot of time moving between meetings and conferences, most of your work probably gets done away from the ideal office envir...

Samsung hits 1m Smart TV app downloads

<img src="http://cdn.mos.techradar.com//classifications/home-entertainment/tv/tvs-displays/images/samsung-le52-200-200.jpg"> Samsung has apparently hit the 1 million mark in Smart TV app downloads through its store. Samsung's App store has been going for a year, and as Smart TV's proliferate the number of downloads has increased. <a href="http://en.akihabaranews.com/75273/announcement/world%E2%80%99s-1-millionth-smart-tv-app-downloaded">Akihabara</A> claims that Samsung's download counter has ticked past 1 million, a key landmark for the App store and connected TVs. App growth The apps available cover things from social networking and news and weather feeds. The rise and rise of connected televisions is likely to be a key trend for 2011, although it remains to be seen how services like Google TV, YouView and new offerings from the likes of Virgin Media impacts on things. Bringing an internet connection to a television brings a host of possibilities, although there remains doubts about just what will make the move from mobile and computing to the television screen.

Samsung hits 1m Smart TV app downloads

Samsung has apparently hit the 1 million mark in Smart TV app downloads through its store. Samsung's App store has been going for a year...

How to Sell Video Downloads

Compress the video files. Open the video using video-editing software and save it in a format such as Quicktime. Further compress the video by zipping it. Right click in a blank area on your computer's desktop or in a folder and choose "New" and select "Compressed (zipped) folder." Drag the video into the folder and it will be compressed.Use an FTP program to upload the video files to your web host server. Enter your user credentials and your website address into the FTP program. After connecting, select the video file on your hard drive and drag it to the remote host.Set up a shopping cart system. You need a mechanism where users can select the video they want and pay for it. Paypal And Google checkout have simple software to do this. You sign up for an account and give the details in your account for each item and then copy the code to your web pages for each product. This will take the payments and send them to your account.Add a digital delivery system. You need software and an account that will send users the videos after purchase. You can sign up for an account with places such as 1-2-3- Music Store and Cube Cart. These systems will work with your Paypal account and, after you have been paid, will direct users how to download the videos.

How to Sell Video Downloads

Compress the video files. Open the video using video-editing software and save it in a format such as Quicktime. Further compress the video...

BBC News app hits 1.5m non-UK downloads

<img src="http://cdn.mos.techradar.com//classifications/Mobile%20Phones/iPhone/BBC_News_app_portrait_BBC_copyright-200-200.jpg"> The BBC has revealed that the international commercial News App for Apple's iPad, iPod Touch and iPhone that it has offered to foreign markets has hit 1.5 million downloads since it launched. The BBC News App was launched back in April - but the free offering has proven to be a popular application on the App store and not just inside the UK. More than 1.5 million people have downloaded the global application, and advertising deals mean that the overseas users have contributed back into the BBC coffers. Phenomenally successful "The international commercial version of the BBC News app for the iPad, iPhone and iPod Touch has been phenomenally successful since it launched in April this year," said the BBC. "Over 1.5m downloads, the app consistently tops the news charts in various international markets. "The app has run advertising campaigns for a cross section of industry partners including Oracle, Cadillac, Continental Airlines, Barclays and IBM among others." BBC Worldwide - which looks after the licence-fee funded institution's business outside of the UK - is an incredibly important part of financing the BBC. With the decision by the government to freeze the licence fee for the coming years, BBC Worldwide will be keen to see commercial ventures, <a href="http://www.techradar.com/news/internet/international-bbc-iplayer-to-launch-next-year-906470">like the forthcoming International iPlayer</A>, begin to generate money from people who do not reside in the UK.

BBC News app hits 1.5m non-UK downloads

The BBC has revealed that the international commercial News App for Apple's iPad, iPod Touch and iPhone that it has offered to foreign m...