Macro Connect News:MC Newsletter July 2008

INTRODUCTION

Welcome back to Macro Connect's e-newsletter. I want to again thank everyone for the positive response to our first e-newsletter. I also want to thank those of you who have helped us by submitting candidates for our recent job opening.

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THIS ISSUE:

Macro Connect News: new hires, upcoming charity event

Tech Tips: Windows Keyboard shortcuts

Cool Stuff: Bluetooth headsets

Client Spotlight: Accomplishment Coaching

Company Overview

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Macro Connect News

Recently, Macro Connect hired two new employees, Greg Little and Paul Cameron. Greg will be working as a full-time consultant and Paul will be working as a wireless specialist and PowerSchool software consultant. We are very happy to have both Greg and Paul on board.

Also, Doug Marsh, our Business Manager, was inducted as president of the Rotary Club of Detroit AM on Friday, July 11th. Doug asked that we make all of you aware of the Detroit AM Rotary Club's annual fundraiser, Eat @ Joe's. This year Eat @ Joe's will be held on August 7th from 5:00 - 8:00pm. Proceeds go to club projects benefiting children in Detroit. More information about ticket sales and corporate opportunities for Eat @ Joe's and the Rotary Club of Detroit AM are available on their website or by emailing Doug Marsh.

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TECH TIPS: Office 2007 Help

Our Tech Tips feature provides quick hints to help you get the most from your technology.

Those of us that spend all day in front of a computer know that learning keyboard shortcuts can help to improve productivity. Most people are aware of the shortcuts allowing them to quickly save, cut, copy, and paste. Some other especially useful shortcuts are "Alt + Tab" and "Windows key + Tab" (for Vista users). These two shortcuts allow you to toggle between the various open items on your desktop. Another useful shortcut for people using Internet Explorer is "Ctrl + Tab". "Ctrl + Tab" toggles between open tabs within your IE window.

Below is a link to a Microsoft knowledge base article with an extensive list of other useful keyboard shortcuts: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/126449

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Cool Stuff: Bluetooth headsets

Almost as ubiquitous as mobile phones these days are the wireless Bluetooth headsets that go with them. While it seems like this technology has exploded recently, Bluetooth technology has actually been around for almost 10 years. During this time, more and more local and state municipalities have outlawed the use of mobile phones by drivers. Currently, there is no state wide law in Michigan prohibiting the use of mobile phones while driving. However, several local municipalities, including the City of Detroit, have laws prohibiting the use of mobile phones while driving. Most of these laws include provisions allowing people to talk on the phone if they are using a hands free device (either a wired or wireless headset). As enforcement of these laws becomes the norm, Bluetooth headsets are destined to become even more common place.

At Macro Connect, we have been using Bluetooth technology for several years. Some of the models we currently use or have tested are:

The Samsung WEP200 ($23.99) is the lowest priced Bluetooth that we have used, but its quality rivals more expensive models. The Samsung is worn inside the ear, but it also includes an ear hook if needed. The unit can only be charged while housed in the included carrying case. Overall, it is a solid product at a very low price. Link to the Samsung WEP200

The Motorola H700 ($27.99) is an updated version of a proven design. It is held in place with an ear hook and has a folding boom microphone that also functions as the on/off switch. You can rest assured that with the microphone folded, the headset is not accidentally placing calls from your pocket. Link to the Motorola H700

The Jabra BT8040 ($61.99) is an in-ear model that has no ear hook. One of its distinguishing features is the ability to pair with more than one phone at the same time, a useful feature for people who carry two mobile phones (work & personal). Link to the Jabra BT8040

The Jawbone ($70.99) is an unusual looking device with advanced noise cancellation technology. Like the Motorola, it is held in place by an ear hook. It is consistently named as one of the top rated Bluetooth headsets by technology writers and enthusiasts. Link to the Jawbone

Unfortunately, there is no one best device. Picking a Bluetooth headset is largely a matter of personal preference and compromise. There are a variety of limitations to keep in mind. People who wear glasses sometimes have issues with over the ear models. Some people are uncomfortable with in-ear designs, especially those with smaller ears or during extended use. Also, we have found that smart phones (Blackberries, Windows Mobile, and Palm devices) have occasional problems with freezing while using Bluetooth. Sound quality can be inconsistent and can be adversely affected by wireless interference, the amount of charge left in the battery, and distance from the phone. That having been said, Bluetooth headsets can be very useful if you spend a lot of time in front of the computer or driving a car while on the phone.

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CLIENT SPOTLIGHT:

Macro Connect is pleased to add Midwest Analytical Services to our list of clients. MAS is a privately owned environmental and analytical testing laboratory. MAS provides efficient and effective scientific planning to improve industrial processes. This complete problem-solving service is unique to MAS. They have been serving the Great Lakes Region in this way since 1987.

MAS specializes in providing emergency laboratory services. Based on your level of urgency, they can provide results in the required timeframe. Non-emergency laboratory services are also available in five to seven business days.

Midwest Analytical Services is located at 2905 Hilton Road in Ferndale and can be reached at (248) 591-6660.

Macro Connect is assisting MAS with maintaining and improving their existing technology infrastructure. Some of the projects we are working on include: network redesign, backup system implementation and report writing.

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