BrainForest

Just downloaded the new version of BrainForest. This app was one of the first outliners that had an actual desktop app that moved data between the handheld and the desktop. It was originally programmed by Aportis (of DOC fame) but when they went under, UltraSoft bought the program.

The current version works a LOT better than the original, even in the first five minutes of use. The original had modal editing and a three-line limit on screen, with no scroll bars. That means if your note took more than four lines, you had to select and drag down, then deselect and edit in the lower parts of that item. Irritating, to say the least. And it was useless, too, since only three lines would display. And the conduit required a lot of convolutions, too.

The new version, however, appears to be a total re-write. There's a nice new OS X desktop version. (The old one came out four or five years ago - when I had a Palm III and that was the top of the line. I don't think even HandSpring was out at the time! OS X wasn't even thought of, since OS 8 was current. On the Windows side, we're talking Win98.) The conduit still requires the "install" back to the handheld (at least as far as I can tell), which is still one step removed from true integration. But it's a great deal improved than the first version was.

You may want to download it before the meeting and play with it beforehand. You can do that here. Or, if you're WiFi equipped, download it at the meeting. I'll have the handheld trial version to beam around, and we can all see what other new capabilities this little gadget has.

Remember, Dakota Grill, not Border's. Directions over on the left. CU there!

SlideFree update

Went to the URL given, and it's not there, only this cryptic message:

The selected product has been removed from our database by its developer!

Actually, it's been updated, and the new URL is:

http://www.palmgear.com/software/showsoftware.cfm?prodID=49103

I just wanted to share this with the group. I have seen that we have quite a few new Tungsten T owners (excellent choice guys!) and I wanted to share this exciting looking app with you. SlideFree lets you access the functions on the silkscreened graffiti area that are hidden while the slider is closed. With this app you are able to access things like the menu button, home, brightness, the clock and more without having to open the slider. I havn't tried it myself (I'm using a NX70V) but I have read good reviews. The program gives you a full 14-day trial. It's only $6 after that, so I don't see how you could justify not registering it if it works like they say it does. You can check it out at Palmgear.com at this url: http://www.palmgear.com/software/showsoftware.cfm?prodID=49103

Also... to those of you who may still have an older unit and feel like you can't resist the urge to upgrade any longer (Doesn't the Tungsten C look nice? 400mhz and 53meg of RAM!) try to hold out until May 21st. On this day Palm should be announcing a nationwide upgrade plan. Trade in your working or non-working Palm model and get $50 off a new unit. This includes any unit... so who still has a Pilot Professional lying around? Look for it on the Palm.com website on the 21st.


Everyone take care. I'm looking forward to seeing everyone at the next meeting!

- Chris Owens