An update to my earlier review. Today I got what T-Mobile calls an “Over-The-Air” update for my Sidekick II. This is essentially a software upgrade. They added a bunch of new icons, features, and new functionality that makes me recommend this phone even more than my initial review said.

The main changes that made me happy were support for Javascript in the web browser application, the ability to view timestamps, buddy icons, and idle times on AOL Instant Messenger.

Here’s a formal list of the changes in the new sidekick update:

List of updates in Sidekick II software v2.3

I was looking to replace my Linksys 802.11b wireless network when I moved to my new home. I have heard a lot of good press on wireless routers that use MIMO (multiple-input multiple-output) technology. MIMO allows for better throughput with reduced error rates when sending data across the network. I wanted a router that would not be obsolete in a few years, so I went with the Belkin Wireless Pre-N router. The Belkin router supports 802.11b, 802.11g, and the yet to be finalized (e.g. “pre�) 802.11n wireless standards and has the Airgo True MIMO chipset.

The router comes with a very well written, illustrated 116 page user manual that takes you through each and every feature of the router. Along with the router and manual, you get a power supply, Ethernet cable, and an installation CD. The CD contains a “set up wizard� that gets you on in a couple of minutes.

When it comes to installation, you have two choices, you can either use the CD or if you are advanced enough, you can configure it yourself. I decided to manually configure my router. Manual installation was very easy. Once my new ISP (Internet Service Provider) gave me the modem, I plugged it into the router and was on-line in less than a minute. What I really liked is that the 4 Ethernet ports on the back are color coded, so you easily know which port is the “Internet� port that you connect to the cable modem. Afterwards I ran the install wizard to see what questions it asks you. Basically it asks if you if you use PPoE, if you use DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol), desired SSID name, etc. What I really liked about the setup is the large number of different options provided. It even had an option for those using Telstra BigPond in Australia as well as European PPTP.

I was not disappointed when it came to customizing the settings in the router. I decided to add a small level of security and turn off SSID broadcasting and enable MAC address filtering. Turning on these two options required just a couple of clicks. The only tricky part was entering the MAC addresses into the router. I am used to typing in the dashes in a MAC, but the configuration requires just the straight address as one alphanumeric string.

The user interface has to be one of the best ones I’ve seen in wireless routers. Each option is explained before you delve into the large array of choices. The interface has an excellent help system that is very close to what you get with the hardcopy manual.

While all routers are natural hardware firewalls, Belkin has gone the extra mile. The built in firewall software does something known as “stateful packet inspection� which means that the router checks not only the packets coming into the computer, but the ones leaving as well. The security log is also quite detailed, informing what IPs tried a DoS (Denial of Service) attack.

With so many applications needing to have ports opened to work, the configuration can be quite time consuming. The Belkin makes it easy. In their “virtual servers� section it has a drop down listing close to 100 of the most popular applications (from Age of Empires to Yahoo Messenger chat). All you do is pick the application and click the “add� button and the necessary ports, and port types are automatically configured in the router, all you need to do is specify the last octet of the computer’s IP address. It is also a great router for people who have kids and want to restrict Internet usage time. With the client IP filter settings, you can set days and times when certain ports can be blocked on specific computers (i.e. block IRC during homework time). The router has support for a 3rd party service that blocks objectionable sites, similar to what applications such as Net Nanny do.

There are some downsides to the router. First is the price. I paid $150 which is a lot more than a typical 802.11b/g router. Secondly, the “n� standard has not been finalized yet and could change (though updates can be made to the router’s firmware). Thirdly to see “pre-n� speeds of 108mb/s, you will need to buy “pre-n� cards. In time as more pre-n routers come out, look for the prices to drop.

In everyday use I have found this router to be very reliable. I have never seen any of my wireless connections go below 5 (out of 5) bars. With my 802.11g devices I connect at 54mbit and never had a dropout. If you are considering moving up to the latest wireless technology I would highly recommend the Belkin Wireless Pre-N router.

Pros:

• Easy to set up
• Well written manual
• Easy to customize

Cons:

• High Price
• “Nâ€? standard not finalized yet

–Michael Bernstein

A few months ago, I started looking for a new mouse to replace my old Microsoft IntelliMouse Explorer. I came across the ‘world’s first’ laser mouse from Logitech, the MX1000. The MX1000 is a stylish mouse that is very comfortable, yet aesthetically pleasing.

The box includes: the MX1000 mouse, receiver, power adapter, and a packet of manuals and CDs. You are required to have installed software first for this mouse to be able to access and customize the extra features such as the buttons and acceleration. First and foremost, I am amazed at how fast this mouse charges, you can charge it overnight and it will have a full charge in the morning, and I am also surprised at the battery life as well. I can use the MX1000 for 3 weeks until it runs out. The response on this laser mouse is exceptionally well, there is almost no lag between the time you move it and the time it shows up on screen. The acceleration is also very good for this mouse and the tracking is also very good as well. There are many customizable buttons on this mouse that you can change in the software’s elegant interface.

If your looking for a good mouse to replace your current one with, the MX1000 is for you. The MX1000 is $79 and is available online or at many retailers.

Pros:
+ Great response.
+ Good feel in your hand.
+ Awesome battery life.

Cons:
- Software is required for customizable buttons.

I’ve been looking for a great solution to protect my iPod in a way where if I drop it, I won’t have to worry about it getting broken. I think I’ve found that solution with the iPodkitz case. First of all, the iPodkitz is made from leather and looks surprisingly familiar to the Vaja iPod cases. The first thing you see when you receive the iPodkitz case is, an elegant white tin can containing the case, a belt clip, a retractable USB cable for your iPod, and a belt clip attachment as well as a cable organizer.

The quality of the case is very nice, with a high-quality leather material and the inside lining made of a red felt. When you slip your iPod into the case, a thin plastic cover built into the case, leaving scratches left behind, protects your screen. The click wheel cutout on the front of the case is precisely cut to fit the iPod’s click-wheel. You cannot use this case in the iPod dock, which means you will have to use the included retractable iPod USB cable or use your iPod’s Firewire cable.

Now, I find the cable organizer very useful. You wrap your ear buds or headphones cord around the cable organizer, and your done! It’s great so you don’t have a long cable tangled or twisted in your pocket. The overall protection of this case is great, I no longer have to worry about my iPod getting damaged.

To attach the belt clip to the case, you simply just screw the back of the clip on, and attach the belt clip piece to the attachment on the case. The only gripe I have about this is that there are no ‘clicks’ when you rotate the case, so your iPod will rotate around with no control. What I like about the design of the case is that the top of the case is left open to attach an accessory such as the iTrip to the iPod.

With the iPodkitz’s similarity to the iVod by Vaja, overall, this case provides a solid protection for your iPod while showing it off in style. The iPodkitz retails at a good price point for $39 dollars.