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This article was published 24/05/2015 (3787 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Security system simple to set up

THE SkylinkNet alarm system kit is nothing fancy, but it’s easy to set up and works well for a simple home-security system.

Like any other smart home system, it has to be connected to a home Internet system and works with an iPhone or Android smartphone.

The kit includes an Internet hub, motion sensor, a remote and a pair of window/door sensors.

Where you connect the sensors is your choice; there’s no right or wrong. The kit is designed for you to start with the basics and add on from there.

Window, door or garage sensors, cameras for indoor or outdoor security, water sensors for detecting leaks and even a telephone dialer can be purchased and added on.

The starter kit really couldn’t be any simpler; setup takes just a few minutes. You need AAA and AA batteries (not included) to run the sensors and to put in the hub as a backup in the event of a power failure.

I’m a fan of gadgets that are so easy to use you don’t have to read the instructions. In this case, since security is involved, I would highly recommend using the quick guide. The setup is well-explained. Start with downloading the free SkyLink app, create an account and add on the sensors.

The sensors have different alarm settings for when you are home or away, and a panic setting. Push notifications can be set to alert you when a sensor or alarm is activated. Each step within the app is straightforward and easy to understand to get the system to do what you want.

The hub is your mission-control device and has to be connected to your router at all times. It connects easily and also has a siren inside.

DETAILS: US$149.99 for the starter kit; skylinkhome.com.

 

Stylus and substance

THE Boogie Board Sync 9.7 eWriter looks like a tablet and feels like a tablet but is essentially a digital three-ring binder without the paper.

You take notes on the screen with the included stylus and save them as PDFs. From there, you can transfer them wirelessly (via Bluetooth) to computers, smartphones or tablets. With the push of a button, your notes are saved as high-resolution vector PDF files.

The writing area is about 24.6 centimetres diagonally, and there’s a slot to store the stylus. The included stylus worked very well. I tried a few other brands, but they didn’t work nearly as well as the original. Extras can be purchased separately for US$19.99 each.

The VDC software is compatible with Mac OS X 10.8 and above, and Windows Vista, 7 and 8. The saved files can be edited with most illustration programs, such as Adobe Illustrator and CorelDraw, as well as image-editing programs such as Adobe Photoshop.

The internal battery is good for about a week, but that can vary depending on usage. A micro-USB cable is included for charging.

The internal memory can store more than 5,000 PDF files. There are endless ways this can be used. I wish the Boogie Board existed when I was in college.

DETAILS: US$90.82; myboogieboard.com.

 

Case as tough as they come

KENSINGTON’S BlackBelt 2nd Degree Rugged Case is well-named.

It’s made with military drop protection (MIL-STD-810G testing protocols) and is about as durable as a case can be.

The polycarbonate X-frame has a comfortable feel, with cushioned rubber layer around it for protecting your iPad from drops, bumps or just about any potential damaging contact.

All of the tablets, ports and controls are accessible for charging, adjusting the volume or using the camera.

A screen protector is included, and the case has a built-in kickstand and hand strap.

DETAILS: US$49.99 for the iPad Air 2 case; US$44.99 for the iPad mini-model; kensington.com.

 

greggellman@mac.com Twitter: @GreggEllman