LabQuest 2 from Vernier- Connected Science System

It has been a couple of years since I last reviewed the Labquest from Vernier, so when I was able to get my hands on the LabQuest 2, I was really excited to find out about all the new enhancements in this new handheld connected science system. The LabQuest 2 is about the size of large cell phone with a high contrast screen that is powered by a high capacity rechargeable Lithium battery. The Labquest 2 has a great design and feels very solid in your hands as you use the device. The high resolution touch screen is great for viewing when you are using it outside in the field. Vernier did not skimp on the processing power in this device and you will find it very responsive when you are collecting or analyzing data on the device. The LabQuest 2 supports all of the Vernier sensors making it easy for schools who have invested in their devices and probes. The LabQuest 2 now includes both WiFi and Bluetooth which opens up all kinds of possibilities which I will discuss later in the post. Additionally, the LabQuest 2 has built-in accelerometers as well as GPS which can be utilized with other sensors for recording such data. I should mention that the LabQuest 2 is compatible with both Mac and Windows computers.

LabQuest 2 Screenshot

But no matter how good the hardware is-how does the LabQuest 2 hold up when in use? This is where this device really shines! Teachers will find that the LabQuest 2 is a dream to use-just plug in the sensor which will be automatically detected by the LabQuest 2 and press the Collect button to get started. Instantly students will be able to see their data being displayed on the screen. Once the data is collected students can spend their time using the analytic tools built in or transfer the data to a computer. Teachers can also have students email the data, graph, or screenshot directly from the LabQuest 2, that was captured, which makes it easy to include in a lab report. The LabQuest 2 supports analysis with linear and curve fits and allows students to record their notes on the device, with the on-screen keyboard. Teachers will enjoy the fact- knowing that the LabQuest 2 comes with over 100 experiments that are pre-loaded on the device which students can access. If teachers would like to customize the labs, Vernier has a handy Lab Creator Tool that is available to teachers that allows you to tweak the lab to your liking. 

Vernier Data Share on iPhone 4S

In this age of bring your own device (BYOD) Vernier has taken this model to heart and created the "connected science system," allowing anyone with a browser to view and interact with the collected data. This enables students with iPhones, Android Phones, iPod Touches, and iPads, to launch their browser and view the data live as it is being collected. All the students need to to do is go to their Settings and make sure that their device and the LabQuest 2 is on the same wireless network. Now simply launch the browser and enter in the IP address or name of Network and voila you are ready to view the data being collected in real time. I have tested various browsers, using my iPhone, iPad, and Kindle Fire with the LabQuest 2 and in each case the data was instantaneously available for me to preview in real time. For a richer set of tools, teachers can purchase the Graphical Analysis for iPad app from the App Store.

With the LabQuest 2, Vernier has transformed the way teachers need to think about teaching science in the classroom and provided them with an easy and powerful solution for capturing data in real time. Utilizing their "connected science system" with the LabQuest 2 it is now possible to extend their set of tools to students, so that they can collaborate in real time-by simply launching a browser. For teachers that want to create more interactive science lessons and give students the opportunity to collect data the LabQuest 2 is certainly an outstanding tool you should include in your classroom. Giving students the opportunity to both visualize and analyze data is at the heart of science and what better way to make it hands-on than with the LabQuest 2. For ore information about the LabQuest 2 you can click here.

If you are considering using the LabQuest 2 in your classroom Vernier will be offering free 4 hour workshop sessions in the Fall. For more information about the workshops click here.

Swivl-The Hands Free Way to Record Video on Your iPhone

I would like to thank the folks at Satarri, Inc for sending me the Swivl to review, which arrived this past week. The Swivl is an innovative product for the iPhone 4, 4S and iPod Touch 4th generation that lets you capture video without the need for a camera-person. The Swivl is comprised of two different units-the Swivl base and the Marker. The Swivl base is a motorized turret that houses your iPhone and allows the base to communicate with the Marker which can follow your movements as you record. Set up was a breeze at the company provided a Quick Start Guide that got you up and running quickly.

To get started I downloaded the free Swivl app to my iPhone 4S, placed the provided batteries (nice touch) into the Swivl base and Marker and then seated the iPhone on the Swivl base and plugged in the connector. I powered up the Swivl base and the Marker, opened the Swivl app and hit the record button to start the video recording. As I moved around the Swivl followed me which made recording a snap. The actuators in the Swivl base are very quiet and barely perceptible. I should note that the Marker in addition to being used as a way to track your movements, includes a high quality digital microphone that is used in the recording process. Once you have finished recording you can quickly upload your video to YouTube directly from the Swivl app which makes this a great tool for bloggers, educators, or anyone that wants to incorporate more video into the work that they do. Having the freedom to move around while doing your videos and not be constrained is really a fantastic feature. The Swivl is easy to use and I know that I will be doing more video blogging with it in the future. So if you find yourself wanting to do more video work and you usually work on your own, this is the perfect gift for you. You can purchase the Swivl on the Swivl website or on Amazon.com.

Below is the video that was captured using the iPhone and Swivl with Medium Video size setting in the Swivl app. The Notes for this video were captured using Quartet Kapture, a digital flip chart capturing tool. For more information about Quartet Kapture click here. Please let me know how you might use Swivl?

The Sims 3 IPA [iPhone/iPod Download]

The Sims has turned 10! So join our year-long anniversary celebration with the #1 BEST-SELLING GAME for 2009 on the App Store. Long live The Sims!
“#1 BESTSELLING GAME FOR 2009” – Apple iTunes Rewind 2009
“BEST MOBILE GAME 2009” – Mobile Excellence Awards THE CIRCLE OF LIFE IS INFINITE
Savor endless hours of entertainment – anytime, anywhere.
CREATE A SIM
Make your Sim neurotic, funny or shy…bring your Sim to life by choosing your appearance, clothing & accessories!

EXPLORE

NEW LOCATIONS

Lose yourself in the amazing 3D open-world environment & discover what kind of character your Sim will turn out to be!
NEW SIMOLEAN CHEAT! (WARNING! REPEATABLE AND ADDICTIVE)
To get unlimited Simoleons, follow these steps during gameplay: Press the Pause Button with the 3 dots that’s in the lower-left corner… press “Help & About”… select “Gardening Tips”… then shake the device for Simoleons!

What’s New in version 1.3.86
** GAME UPDATE AVAILABLE! Download now for the best game experience yet! **

Screenshots

The Sims 3 IPA [iPhone/iPod Download]

Version 1.3.86

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STREET FIGHTER II COLLECTION IPA [iPhone/iPod Download]

≪ Caution: Supporting OS ≫
Supporting OS: iPhone 3GS with iOS4.1 onwards, iPhone 4, iPod touch 3GS onwards.
Please note: iPod touch (8GB, model No, A1288) is not supported (*Model No can be found at the back of devices)
*Although being tested on iPad and iPad2, this application is not designed for these devices.
Here the legend was begun…
Passionate soulful battles…
And now…

The masterpiece is coming back!!
The origin of fighting games!!
Meeting users’ passionate expectation, “STREET FIGHTER II COLLECTION” will be released, covering three early titles of “STREET FIGHTER II”!!
≪ Covered Titles ≫
・ “STREET FIGHTER II The World Worrior”
・ “STREET FIGHTER II’ CHAMPION EDITION”
・ “STREET FIGHTER II’ HYPER FIGHTING”
≪ Operability has been dramatically improved!! ≫
Presenting far better operability, compare to the same titles which are contained in “Capcom Arcade” application!
★Improvement
・Using “Lever operation + S” button, all the different finishing moves can be operated.
・Using 3 “S” buttons, the strength of finishing moves is selectable from “soft”, “middle” and “hard”.
・Rearranging placement and size of buttons
★Button Operation
1) “PK4 + S3” button (4 buttons for: punch (soft / hard), kick (soft / hard) + 3 buttons for: finishing move (soft / middle / hard))
2) “PK6 + S3” button (6 buttons for: Punch (soft / middle / hard), kick (soft / middle / hard) + 3 buttons for: Finishing move (soft / middle / hard))
*In addition to this, the setting not to use “S” button is available.
Finishing move commands used to be bothering are now easier to operate!
Use all the finishing moves such as “Dragon Punch”, “Hurricane Punch” or “Cyclone Kick” efficiently,
Go on fighting against the fighters all over the world, and aim the real fighter!!
≪ Caution: To play using Bluetooth ≫
The matches using Bluetooth are available only between the same titles.
In addition, this application is NOT designed to connect with the same three titles which are distributed through “Capcom Arcade”.
≪ About this Application ≫
This application consists of three titles “STREET FIGHTER II”, “STREET FIGHTER II’” and “STREET FIGHTER II’ TURBO”, which are improved in operability and display of in-game menu compare to the titles being distributed through “Capcom Arcade”, and renamed “STREETFIGHTER II COLLECTION”.

What’s new in Version 1.00.01
-　Fix minor bug

Screenshots

STREET FIGHTER II COLLECTION IPA [iPhone/iPod Download]

Version 1.00.01

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Cars 2 IPA [iPhone/iPod Download]

TOP SECRET: FOR YOUR WHEELS ONLY!
Join Lightning McQueen, Mater and two new characters from Disney • Pixar’s feature film in a fun platform racing game. Your mission in Cars 2 is to complete each race, unlock new levels, and get the high score!

PLATFORM RACING
Timing is everything. Tap to jump, double tap to jump higher. Use checkpoints, ramps, and hooks to gain an advantage.

FOUR PLAYABLE CHARACTERS
Play as Mater, Lightning McQueen, rookie agent Holley Shiftwell, and master spy Finn McMissile!
RACE AROUND THE WORLD
Race through three locations inspired by the new film, including the mysterious Oil Rig, the streets of Tokyo, and the bridges of London.
PIXAR POWER-UPS
Multiply your score by collecting oilcans. Replenish health with wrench pick-ups.
DEVIOUS HAZARDS
Keep a sharp eye out and jump over for items that will slow you down

What’s New in version 1.2
Thanks for playing Cars 2! We have added even more fun. Now play with the most famous race car in Europe, Francesco Bernoulli! You must also keep an eye out for Acer and Grem — these “lemons” are out to wreak havoc!
Look for Cars 2 on Blu-ray Combo Pack November 1st!

Screenshot

Cars 2 IPA [iPhone/iPod Download]

VERSION 1.2

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Inotia 3: Children of Carnia IPA [iPhone/iPod/iPad download]

What would it take to change warrior’s destiny?
The Big Adventure! Inotia3: Children of Carnia!
An inevitable fate has lain before the children of Carnia. The far greatest epic adventure! The Chronicles of Inotia III! The new legend is about to begin in the continent of Inotia.

“With the coming of age ritual ahead, Lucio and Ameli from Carnia village happen to be acquiring guntlets, and the adventure stirred up by these guntlets leads to a consequence that is a way beyond their imaginations… Lucio and Ameli realize soon that they have extraordinary destinies lain before them… Warriors’ predestined fates have been lasted for thousands of years already… Will those of who are born to be warriors be happy after all?”

★ Features ★

1) Organized Party System
A Party Battle System, where you get to combine 6 classes to construct your own party! You can control each character separately and enhance their skills and stats however you like. Through a story mode, you can not only obtain various characters, but also hire mercenaries with items. Personalize each character by equipping a variety of clothing, weapons and defense weapons.
2) Touching Story in an Enormous Scale
A way far better and more enormous in scale than its previous sequel, the story line of Inotia III, traveling past and present time back and forth, is solid and constructed in detail that you won’t be able to take your eyes off the game. A whole lot of unique minor casts will make their appearance throughout the story, and the main character’s itinerary is delineated on 130+ maps. 230 of not-to-be-underestimated quests with various themes are enough to testify the Inotia III’s distinctive way of engrossing users.
3) Various updates are so on the way!
4) The game supports both English and Korean.
5) It’s Universal and will run on your iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
What’s New in version 1.2.2
What’s newly updated
- Improved performance
Have another exciting day with Inotia 3!
*****************
MORE GAMES
- Gold Jumper
- Dungeon Fantasy Online KR
- Puzzle Family
- Tower Defense
- Homerun Battle 3D
- Slice It!
- Third Blade

Inotia 3: Children of Carnia IPA [iPhone/iPod/iPad download]

VERSION 1.2.3

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Xtreme Wheels IPA [iPhone/iPod/iPad Download]

Revving Up the App Store!!
Get ready for the wildest two-wheel ride on the App Store! Xtreme Wheels takes you on an amazing, hazard filled trip over explosives, ladders, barrels, twisted ramps, huge gaps, and precarious cargo containers all on a powerful trial bike.

Balance and speed are what you will need to complete the increasingly difficult courses without breaking every bone in your riders body! Explosive barrels line the course and can be your friend or lethal foe by boosting your speed and height or bringing a very quick end to your riding career. Whether you survive as a champion or fall to the ground as a loser, Xtreme Wheels promises to be a spectacle both in gameplay and visuals, making it an eye-popping experience unlike any other on a handheld device.
Start your engines and hold on tight, bikers! A new era of trial bike games has begun with Xtreme Wheels.
FEATURES:
- XTREME COURSES
Flip and fly over 20 amazing physics-based obstacle courses with increasing difficulties.
XTREME GRAPHICS
- 3D retina display and A5 dual core processing on iPad 2 for HD console-worthy graphics
- XTREME COMPETITION
Game Center support lets you post your scores and time to surpass your friends on online leaderboards.
- XTREME CONTROLS
Intuitive and responsive. Play the way you want to with analog, digital or accelerometer support.
More Apps from Bravo Game Studios:
TOUCH RACING NITRO
- #1 grossing racing game in the USA and Europe
VOLCANO ESCAPE
- GamePro iOS Game of the Day
- TUAW Daily App
- IGN iPhone Game of the Day
- CNET iPhone App of the Week
- “What’s Hot” and “New and Noteworthy” in App Store, March 2011
CELEBRITY BODYGUARD
- “Fast and flashy” –Entertainment Weekly
- 148 Apps: 4 stars
- “New and Noteworthy” in App Store, May 2011

What’s New in version 1.1.1
Xtreme Wheels continues to improve its application in order to consistently provide you with better features. In this case you can find the following:

- New autosave feature: Your progress won’t be lost during your game if you run out of battery
- The issue has been fixed with the 00:00:00 best times on Game Center
- Improved performance and stability

Screenshots

Xtreme Wheels IPA [iPhone/iPod/iPad Download]

Version 1.1.2

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Skype for iPhone Now with Video Calls

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I could remember back to 1964 at the New York's World Fair being transfixed as I spoke to my mother an father and was able to see them on the video phone in the ATT Pavilion. It sure has taken a long time for the idea of video calls to take hold. But if there is one prediction which will really take hold in 2011 it will be how we begin to make more and more video calls on our mobile phones. Apple lead the way this year with their  application FaceTime running on the iPhone 4 and iPod Touch, allowing users to have video conferencing calls on the go when they are within earshot of a Wifi network. Skype today announced the release of Skype for iPhone which is free that will allow users to place video calls over a 3G or Wifi network.

With Skype, you can:

• Make video calls to people on their computers as well as other iPhones (details below)
• Make free audio calls to anyone else on Skype
• Make great value calls to landlines and mobiles around the world

The new app is compatible with the iPhone 4, iPhone 3GS, and iPod touch 4th generation with i0S 4.0 or above. You can also receive video calls on the iPod touch 3rd generation and iPad. Calls can be made between devices using the new Skype for iPhone app and desktops including Skype for Windows 4.2 and above, Skype for Mac 2.8 and above, Skype for Linux and the ASUS videophone.

So enjoy the New Year and reach out and touch someone with Skype for the iPhone!