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Newsletter Archive Reviews Archive 
Welcome to Clif Notes Newsletter
June 8, 2008
REVIEWS
Spicebird - the Outlook alternative
Posted by ClifNotes, Jun 2008, permalink E-mail Programs
Here's a great review of Spicebird from Jeff Needle. Jeff is a welcome contributor here and a knowledgeable member of the alt.comp.freeware news group.
From Jeff Needle, June 2008
For years, software authors have tried to put together a reasonable alternative to the bloated and expensive Microsoft Outlook. I don't know of anyone who has actually accomplished this, but Spicebird comes pretty darn close. And it's free!
Built on the Mozilla engine (it looks and feels much like Seamonkey and Thunderbird), Spicebird offers an e-mail client, a newsgroup reader, an RSS feed reader, a calendar and a to do list, all in one package. Here some of its strengths and some of its weaknesses:
First, when you start Spicebird, you're presented with a totally customizable "home page" that typically contains a calendar, a summary of things scheduled for the next few days, a clock and a series of areas to plant your RSS feeds. All of this is changeable by the user to either include or exclude any part of it. Components of Spicebird are found on tabs at the top of the page, making switching from one module to another very easy. (One of the bugs: you're given the option of including "to do" items with your calendar display, but this doesn't seem to be working right now.)
If you're familiar with any Mozilla mail project, then you'll be right at home with the mail/newsgroup capability. Quite nice and very easy to use.
Calendaring is also done easily, with a nice recurring appointment feature and lots of room to make notes about the appointment.
The address book will be considered pretty bare boned to some, but it is at least as good as the address book found in other Mozilla projects. If you hate Mozilla, you won't like Spicebird
Instant messaging is also built in. I never use it, so I can't comment on it.
Unlike Seamonkey, Spicebird doesn't have a browser built in. I wish it did. But unlike other products, Spicebird keeps all its data in one place, making for a very easy backup and restore experience.
Spicebird is still in beta, so there are a few snags. I've managed to work around them; I'm hoping they'll be fixed in a public release due out soon. I have begun using Spicebird as my primary mail client. I've found it to be fast and easy to use.
The home page for Spicebird is http://www.spicebird.com/ . The product can be downloaded from here.
TeamViewer - remote desktop sharing and conferernces
Posted by ClifNotes, Jun 2008, permalink Web Conferencing
Last week, I posted a review from Claire about Mikogo's free web conferencing service. TeamViewer offers a very similar free service and I decided to try it out for myself. I found out that I like it better than Mikogo. There is no need to register for the TeamViewer service. The same isn't true of Mikogo. Mikogo requires that you give them an email address to set up an account there.
Here's a bit more about this service:
TeamViewer is the fast, simple and friendly solution for remote access over the Internet - all applications in one single, very affordable module. Instantly take control over a computer anywhere on the Internet, even through firewalls. No installation required, just use it fast and secure. TeamViewer can also be used to present your desktop to a partner on the Internet. Show and share your software, PowerPoint presentations etc. Share your files, chat, switch the direction during a teamwork session, and a lot more is included in TeamViewer.
TeamViewer is not freeware, but it is free for personal use.
Get your download:
You can find the downloads right on the front page of the sites as shown on the left. If you want to be the one who controls the session, You'll need to run the "Full Version". If you are helping someone by viewing their PC, then tell them to choose the "Customer Module".
Installing the software:
You can choose the "Run" option and TeamViewer will work as a portable application without installing on your PC. That's what I recommend.
I found that it works just as well from a USB thumb drive.
Starting a session:
Once you have TeamViewer running, you can choose the type of session you want to start. If you are the one who needs to run your friend's PC, then you can leave it set on "Remote Support". When they run the "Customer Module, they'll get a simple no-install executable with no options. Just ask them for the session ID and the password. Within seconds you will have full control of their PC.
There are lots of options for viewing and you can also transfer files between the computers.
Website:
http://teamviewer.com
Sleipnir Web Browser - fast and customizable
Posted by ClifNotes, Jun 2008, permalink Web Browser
Tip from CC.
http://www.fenrir.co.jp/en/sleipnir/
click to expand picture
Quote from the website
Sleipnir is designed to be a highly customizable browser that you can configure to suit your individual needs. With Sleipnir, you can create your ideal browser by changing the design, skin, and visual appearance. You can also add custom functionality to Sleipnir with a wide range of plugins and user scripts. Users love Sleipnir for its unique blend of high-performance and customizability!
http://www.fenrir.co.jp/en/sleipnir/
PrintMaster Express - card, posters, calendars and more
Posted by ClifNotes, Jun 2008, permalink Desktop Publishing
Here's a review of PrintMaster Express from Tony at Top Freeware. I've seen this program before. I thought it was only available on those CDs you get when you by a printer. I wasn't aware that it was a freeware download.
Quote from Top Freeware:
PRINTMASTER EXPRESS
PLATFORM: WIN 95 - XP
DESCRIPTION:
Lets you create cards, posters, letter heads, fax covers, newsletters, calenders and more.
Just recently we had mothers day, so I decided to hunt down a program to create a card and this is what I found was the best on offer. Features include adding shadow effects, using guides, different layers, tables and more.
It's easy to use, you can customize to your hearts content and it suited my needs just fine
Read this and other reviews at Top Freeware
ViStart - XP start menu replacement looks like Vista
Posted by ClifNotes, Jun 2008, permalink Desktop Tools
I've reviewed other start menu replacements. Each has it's strong points and weaknesses.
ViStart's strong points are the slick Vista look but it really shines as a search engine that finds the programs and personal files you were looking for with blazing speed.
It's weakness is the loading time it takes when started. This desktop enhancement may not be for everyone, but it fills a need for those people who don't organize their start menus but still want to find their programs and files fast.
ViStart is offered as a zip download containing a single executable file. There is no installation needed. Just unzip it, move it where you want to keep it, and run it.
click to expand picture
Quote from the website
ViStart is a perfect start menu replacement for Windows XP. ViStart will now index all personal files and program files and give *ACTUAL instant results* thats 4 times faster then the real Vista start menu....
http://lee-soft.com/
RadarSync 2008 - scan for programs and drivers that need updated
Posted by ClifNotes, Jun 2008, permalink System Maintenance
RadarSync is an application that checks your PC and offers advice on what programs and drivers need to be updated. Back in 2006, I tried this program and I didn't like it very much. Firstly, it's LiteWare, which means the free version is limited or crippled in some fashion so that you might be tempted to upgrade to a payware version. Secondly, I seem to recall that it directed you to paid download sites for driver updates.
I guess they discovered that this was a very bad idea. I found a review of the newest version of RadarSync at confessions of a freeware junkie. The author, Max, seems to like RadarSync. Below is a portion of the review.
Quote from Max, the freeware junkie
As always, I've scoured the 'Net for another great find, and I present to you (queue horns here) RadarSync, which is an application that can update your system apps AND your drivers. All for free, of course!
Likes
• The intuitive and easy-on-the-eyes interface - (major)
• Driver updates - (major)
• The initial application/driver scan is fast - (medium)
• The 'Competitors' tab in the 'Details' section - (medium)
• Ability to modify download location of updates - (medium)
read the rest of Max's review here
Home page of RadarSync
http://www.radarsync.com/
Phantasmagoria - transform your images with cool effects
Posted by ClifNotes, Jun 2008, permalink Image Effects and Filters
While visiting the freewaregenius blog, authored by Samer, I ran across a nice utility for manipulating images with some very cool effects. Those of you who use Photoshop or Gimp may not be impressed, but if your image editing tools aren't that advanced, this may be a great addition to your software collection.
click to expand picture
Quote from Samer, the freeware genius:
The idea behind Phantasmagoria is to provide a collection of tools that can be used to produce interesting images without the need for any other editing program. Alternately, of course, you can use these effects to transform images that you then go on to use in other editing or design applications.
read the rest of Samer's article
Phantasmagoria home page
http://www.develderby.com/phantasmagoria/
Old Newsletter
I like to look back and see what I was thinking about. Here's another letter from the wayback machine.
TIPS AND FEEDBACK
What free software do you need?
Notes from ClifNotes, permalink Windows Tips
So what do you need? Write it down below and I'll see if I can find it. If you know the answer to someone else's question, add your answer there.
Previous What Do You Need comments
Search all the comments
Internet Fixes Weekend Windup
tips from Gary at InternetFixes, Windows Tips
From Clif:
Gary at Internet Fixes continues to amaze me with hundreds and thousands of tips for your PC. Whatever your operating system, or how you use it, a visit to Gary's site will soon have you saying "So that's how you do this!".
Sign up for Gary's newsletter?
Weekend Windups are now available online
http://www.internetfixes.com/weekend_windup/
Visit My New FAQ Section Of The Website! Takes The Place Of The Old Forum And Login Section Of The Website!
http://www.internetfixes.com/fixes/index.php
============================
Check Out The New Tips Package!
http://www.internetfixes.com/xp_printable_pdf_files.htm
============================
Send Me Your Computer Related Questions!
http://www.internetfixes.com/question.htm
============================
The Following are links from the past weeks Newsletter.
============================
1. There are several ways to run CHKDSK.
http://www.internetfixes.com/newsletter_06_06_08.htm#1
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2. Remove Unwanted Windows Components.
http://www.internetfixes.com/newsletter_06_06_08.htm#2
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3. Doing A Little Spring Cleaning In XP To Improve Performance.
http://www.internetfixes.com/newsletter_06_06_08.htm#3
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4. Control Size Of IE Windows.
http://www.internetfixes.com/newsletter_06_06_08.htm#4
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5. To check your BOOT.INI file.
http://www.internetfixes.com/newsletter_06_06_08.htm#5
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6. Always use Caution!
http://www.internetfixes.com/newsletter_06_06_08.htm#6
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7. Having problems with Microsoft Word?
http://www.internetfixes.com/newsletter_06_06_08.htm#7
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Visit My New FAQ Section Of The Website. Takes The Place Of The Old Forum And Login Section Of The Website!
http://www.internetfixes.com/fixes/index.php
============================
8. CHKDSK running every time the computer starts.
http://www.internetfixes.com/newsletter_06_06_08.htm#8
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9. To make sure you are an Administrator.
http://www.internetfixes.com/newsletter_06_06_08.htm#9
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10. Hyperlinks Not Working In Internet Explorer 6.0.
http://www.internetfixes.com/newsletter_06_06_08.htm#10
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11. Turn Off Script Reporting Errors In IE 6.0
http://www.internetfixes.com/newsletter_06_06_08.htm#11
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12. MSI files they have to be opened with Windows® installer.
http://www.internetfixes.com/newsletter_06_06_08.htm#12
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13. Stop Internet Explorer’s Annoying Clicking Sound.
http://www.internetfixes.com/newsletter_06_06_08.htm#13
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14. IE 7 with no Add-ons for trouble shooting.
http://www.internetfixes.com/newsletter_06_06_08.htm#14
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15. Your Screen Flipped upside down.
http://www.internetfixes.com/newsletter_06_06_08.htm#15
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150 WINDOWS XP RUN COMMANDS!
http://www.internetfixes.com/xp_run_commands.htm
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Click The Link Below To Join My News Letter.
The Form At The Link Below Covers Both Monday and Wednesdays News Letter.
http://www.internetfixes.com/newsletter.htm
============================
Vista Run Commands.
http://www.internetfixes.com/vista_run_commands.htm
============================
Download 1000 Of My Tips!
Over 600 Windows XP Tips!
11/11/2007 Added 100 Vista Tips To The Download!
http://www.internetfixes.com/main_paypal.htm
============================
Function Keys F1 F2 F3 F4 F5 F6 F7 F8 F9 F10 F11 F12
http://www.internetfixes.com/definitions/IF01424.htm
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Using Password Phrases For Better Security.
http://www.internetfixes.com/readers_questions/IF02088.htm
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PC Problems? Use My New Detailed Help Form.
http://www.internetfixes.com/question.htm
To Expedite The Answer I Send You Please Check Your Event Viewer And Include Any Errors It May Be Recording.
http://www.internetfixes.com/xp_event_log/index.htm
==============================
TIPS WITH FULL GRAPHICS! ALL ONE LOCATION!
http://www.internetfixes.com/tips_with_full_graphics.htm
============================
Hardware And Software Vendor Phone List, A-K
http://www.internetfixes.com/IF01051.htm
Hardware And Software Vendor Phone List, L-P
http://www.internetfixes.com/IF01052.htm
Hardware And Software Vendor Phone List, Q-Z
http://www.internetfixes.com/IF01053.htm
Computer Motherboard And Chipset Drivers.
http://www.internetfixes.com/IF01057.htm
============================
Newsletters From The Past Four Weeks!
============================
Newsletter_04_15_08
http://www.internetfixes.com/newsletter_04_15_08.htm
============================
Newsletter_04_23_08
http://www.internetfixes.com/newsletter_04_23_08.htm
============================
Newsletter_04_30_08
http://www.internetfixes.com/newsletter_04_30_08.htm
============================
Newsletter_05_07_08
http://www.internetfixes.com/newsletter_05_07_08.htm
============================
Newsletter_05_14_08
http://www.internetfixes.com/newsletter_05_14_08.htm
============================
Newsletter_06_06_08
http://www.internetfixes.com/newsletter_06_06_08.htm
*******************************
FIVE VERY POPULAR TITLES!!
*******************************
IF01766 Easy enable real Administrator Account in Windows Vista Home Premium
http://www.internetfixes.com/administrator_account_vista_home/index.htm
==============================
IF01767 Keep User Account Control active, but get rid of annoying popups in Vista.
http://www.internetfixes.com/keep_vista_account_control/index.htm
==============================
IF01768 Transfer User Accounts, System Settings from XP to Vista.
http://www.internetfixes.com/transfer_user_accounts/index.htm
==============================
IF02011 Map a Network Printer In Windows XP.
http://www.internetfixes.com/network_printer/index.htm
==============================
IF02006 Using The Windows XP Event Viewer Log.
http://www.internetfixes.com/xp_event_log/index.htm
============================
Comments last week
Thanks to everyone who commented on the articles last week. You gave me more ideas and some good advice.
REVIEW
Ultra Explorer - the ultimate File Manager? •
Crunzh cmdMail - email from the command line •
xB Browser - easy anonymous surfing •
Mikogo Free Online Meetings •
LemonScreen - just your smile is all you need to login •
SMOz - Start Menu Organizer •
FEEDBACK
Anonymous in the Internet? •
Don't go to Zango •
Musopen - Classical Music Radio Station •
COOL
Konradp.com - some very good freebie apps •
A Faery's Tale - fun scarey video •
COOL WEBSITES
Some really fun chalk drawings
Posted by ClifNotes, Jun 2008, permalink Funny
An old friend of mine, Tutelage, displayed some photos of chalk drawings from Julian Beever. These are awesome and I just had to share them. I went to SlideShare and found a good selection of them there.
If you want to view these full screen, you'll have to click this link and hit the "full" button, otherwise, just hit the forward and back arrows below.
Aionel's Software - games and utilities made in Poland
Posted by ClifNotes, Jun 2008, permalink Software Collections
Another tip from CC. Here's a great set of games and utilities from Poland.
click to expand picture
Quote from the website
Welcome to Programy Aionela (that would be Aionel's Software in English) ! You have just reached a site that contains a rich set of software created by me. You will find here games and utilities - all of them are distributed under Freeware or Postcardware license (so basically they're free). When creating games, I was trying to remember that the most important thing is pure fun, which isn't always connected with astonishing graphic and sound. Similarly, when writing utilities the most important things were: creating intuitive interface, adding lots of options to choose from and making a solid documentation.
http://www.english.aionel.net/
CoolSites Newsletter this week
Here are a 6 links (out of dozens) from Mark's CoolSites Newsletter. Be sure to visit his site and see the rest of his links this week.
• KidZui - The Internet for Kids. Content is reviewed by teachers and parents so your kids can surf independently: http://www.kidzui.com/
• 15 Essential Windows Explorer Addons - BizzNtech: http://www.bizzntech.com/2008/04/21/12-essential-windows-explorer-addons
• free wi-fi hotspots wifi cafes coffee shops hotels airports RV Parks: http://www.wififreespot.com/
• Just Free Books - A search engine to find only free ebooks - eBooks in English and Spanish.: http://www.justfreebooks.info/
• New. textBEAST. Lets you save, organize, and re-use words, sentences, paragraphs, and pages: http://www.asbware.com/index.html
• Update. K-Meleon 1.5 Beta 2 Browser: http://kmeleon.sourceforge.net/
Quote from the websiteCOOLSITES is a list of safe, fun, useful, informative and just plain cool websites and programs that are FREE, FREE and FREE. All of the programs and websites I list are free. If I list anything that is so good but isn't free I will list the price with it.
http://luem42.googlepages.com/coolsites.html
NEW NEWS
SnapFiles.com - new and updated freeware
Source - http://snapfiles.com/freeware
News from Sarah in Tampa
Source - http://sarahintampa.com
Security news from Malware Advisor
blog by TeMerc Internet Countermeasures, source
Infected? Go to http://temerc.com for help
A view from CyberNirvana
CyberNirvana: Zia's blog about the web and web technology.
http://zia.blogspot.com/
OTHER STUFF
Frapper - you people live all over the world!
Wow! Over 900 people and still growing! I invite all of you to record your locations on this map. You can include as little or as much information as you wish. I think you'll enjoy seeing yourself there.
Here's a small look at my frapper map.
Get Gmail! and Get Firefox!
You need a free 6 GB Gmail account to access many of the cool features at Google. After more than two years in beta testing Gmail is open to the public. Just go to http://gmail.com and sign up for an account.
I think Gmail works best in the awesome Firefox browser. It's free, easy to use, and it's way more secure than Internet Explorer. My favorite thing to do is to customize Firefox so that it does much more than IE ever could. You can select new button controls for your toolbars, install extensions to add new features, or change the look of your browser with themes - the way Firefox looks and works is under your control.
Chatting at FreewareWiki
Now you can chat with anyone visiting a website by using Meebo. To see who's gabbing at this website, click here.
Find out more about Meebo.com
Write your own review
I get many of the reviews in the newsletter from the readers. You don't have to be a genius or computer guru. Just answer a few questions and send me a review. I'll probably put you in the newsletter.
What do you have to say?
Just tell me what article you are talking about and leave me your comment.
Have fun and surf safely.
Clif
http://clifnotes.net & http://freewarewiki.pbwiki.com
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