Engadget’s summer gear guide 2012: smartphones

June 1, 2012

I am on my smart phone ALL the time! And if you are anything like me, you want to know all the latest apps and all there is to know about the newest and best phones on the market. Gearing up for summertime and keeping in mind that I have to work remotely I must have a fast working phone. Here is Engadget’s summer gear guide to smartphones for 2o12.

Summer Gear Guide 2012: Smartphones

By , Engadget

As you prepare for adventures with friends and fun in the sun, just remember that a great smartphone should be at the top of your gear list. Whether you’re looking for travel tips, a new place to hang or even directions to get there, your smartphone will have you covered. It can help you check-in for flights, rent a car and even get great deals on places to stay. Go ahead and leave your point-and-shoot camera at home, because many of today’s best smartphones excel at photography and allow you to immediately share your memories as they’re captured. If you plan to travel abroad, be sure to spring for an unlocked handset to avoid those nasty roaming fees. Whatever your particular needs, our smartphone selection is geared to make your decision as painless as possible – and more importantly, ensure that you have a fun and rewarding summer. Dive in on the other side of the break.

For the complete list of the summer guide for smartphones Click Here.

Editor’s choice: HTC One X 


zBoost Rings in mCommerce

May 9, 2012

zBoost Keeps National Communications’ Client From Losing Largest Trade Show

New Orleans - Wi-Ex (www.wi-ex.com), a leading provider of consumer and commercial cell phone signal boosters, today announced at CTIA Wireless in booth #4050 a new case study “zBoost: Ringing in mCommerce” showcasing National Communications’ install at Western North Carolina Agricultural Center’s Davis Center.  National Communications, Inc.,  a full service Communications Contractor specializing in the design, project management, and installation of voice, data and fiber optic cabling projects, recently used zBoost Commercial Solution Division Kits to help WNC’s Davis Center help keep its largest combined trade show.

National Communications’ client WNC’s Davis Center had little to no indoor cell phone service.  The indoor cell phone signal was so poor inside the Davis Center that WNC was in danger of losing its largest combined trade show, The Land of Sky Knife and Gun Show.  The trade show exhibitors rely on their cell phones and smartphones to process credit cards and without a strong cell phone signal were unable to conduct business at shows.

 

“With mCommerce expected to reach $200 billion by 2012, a reliable cell phone signal is a quickly becoming a necessity for businesses,” said Michael Cummiskey of Wi-Ex.  “National Communications was able to successfully help WNC provide a strong cell phone signal to their clients and help them conduct transactions on the show floor and other business activities.”

 

Solution

National Communications installed zBoost Commercial Solutions Division Kits to improve the cell phone signal and allow the trade show vendors to successfully use their smartphones and cell phones for credit card transactions, as well as other business related needs.

“Installation of the zBoost saved WNC Agricultural Center’s largest combined trade show.  The Land of Sky Knife and Gun Show holds five sales per year in our newly renovated 45,000 square feet LEED certified Davis Expo Center,” said Matt Buchanan, WNC Agricultural Center Manager.  “With little to no cellular reception for credit card transactions and other business related needs, we were in danger of losing this event to another facility. Since the installation of the repeater system all I have heard are praises from both the promoter and vendors.”

Visit http://www.wi-ex.com/testimonials.aspx to read other Wi-Ex Case Studies and Testimonials.


zBoost Solves Weak Signal Problems in Homes, Offices, Conventions Centers, Hospitals and More

May 8, 2012

zBoost cell phone booster boosts cellular signal Businesses’ Rapid Increase of Mobile Data Usage Increases the Need for Strong Signal

New Orleans – Wi-Ex (www.wi-ex.com), a leading provider of commercial and consumer cell phone signal boosters, showcased today its zBoost line of consumer cell phone signal boosters including 4G, as well as new commercial cell phone signal booster kits for small businesses and commercial applications such as hospitals, factory floors, M2M, convention centers, museums, ATCO trailers, offices and high rises. Highlighted at CTIA Wireless in booth #4050 and CTIA Mobile Focus, the zBoost line provides consumers and businesses with a solution to the slow data and dropped calls caused by weak cell phone signal indoors.

“From homes and small offices that use the zBoost SOHO to installs of our Commercial Solutions Division Kits in convention centers and hospitals, we work closely with our dealers and installers to provide solutions to meet the needs of our customers,” said Michael Cummiskey of Wi-Ex. “In fact, just last week we worked with Spot On Networks to install zBoost signal boosters for the WIRED Business Conference: Disruptive By Design. The event organizers realized that the more than 400 thought-leaders in attendance would need (and expect), a reliable signal for their cell phones and tablets.”

Consumers and businesses rely on a strong cell phone signal for making calls, receiving and sending texts, checking email and ever increasing for their online multimedia applications such as gaming, downloading music, uploading pictures and streaming high-definition video at optimal quality and speed. A poor indoor cell phone signal results in millions of unhappy customers.

“As we continue to focus on developing solutions to meet the needs of today’s mobile society, zBoost is focused on two trends: the rapid increase in mobile data and the rapid adoption of smartphones and tablets,” said Sharon Cuppett, vice-president of marketing at Wi-Ex. “Recent industry stats predict that more than half of the Internet’s traffic will come from mobile devices by 2016 and when combined with the staggering growth of smartphones and tablets, there is the potential for millions of unhappy mobile users as a result of slow data and dropped calls.”

The newest addition to the zBoost line, the zBoost 4G-V, provides consumers using Verizon LTE with an end to slow data and dropped calls allowing them to enjoy all of the benefits of their smartphones and other connected devices.

With the zBoost 4G, consumers using Verizon LTE can maximize their 4G devices. For larger spaces, zBoost offers the zBoost Commercial Solutions Division Kits System available for coverage areas up to 20,000 and 40,000 square feet. The kits include all of the components for a complete system solution whether for commercial environments or large residential applications and utilize the proven zBoost technology from Wi-Ex to improve cell phone voice and data signals.

Benefits:

● Increases indoor signal coverage-up

● Supports multiple users simultaneously

● Increases voice and data transmission

● Decreases dropped or missed calls

● Easy to set up

● No cradle or connections to your phone

● Extends phone battery life (uses less power when signal is stronger)

● Protects the carrier network using patented technology


zBoost Cell Phone Signal Boosters Utilized At The WIRED Business Conference: Disruptive By Design In Partnership With MDC Partners

May 1, 2012

 zBoost Cell Phone Signal Boosters Keep Executives Connected During All-Day Conference

May 1, 2012 – Wi-Ex (www.wi-ex.com), a leading provider of consumer and commercial cell phone signal boosters, announced today that the fourth annual WIRED Business Conference: Disruptive by Design in partnership with MDC Partners is utilizing several zBoost by Wi-Ex cell phone signal boosters to provide the more than 400 thought-leaders in attendance with a reliable indoor cell phone signal.  The zBoost line allows consumers to take full advantage of data, voice and Internet services on their iPhones(TM), iPads(TM), connected devices and smartphones.

Held at the Museum of Jewish Heritage in New York City, the WIRED Business Conference is a one-day symposium featuring C-level executives and thought-leaders featuring groundbreaking discussions on disruptive business practices, ideas, and innovations. Spot On Networks installed the zBoost signal boosters for the symposium.

“The building is a cellular dead zone due to the building’s exterior construction – primarily the lead tinted windows.  Prior to the installation of the zBoost solution, the only way to make a phone call was to open a door and go outside of the building,” said William Howard, Vice President of Project Management for Spot On Networks.  “The addition of the zBoost allows for the attendees to stay connected to their offices during the event.”

The phone signal boosters were installed in several locations within the three-story building including the auditorium and conference rooms, the lunchroom, lobby area and reception area.

“Smartphones and tablets are an essential part of staying connected to the office, however a poor indoor cell phone signal can make this a challenge,” said Michael Cummiskey of Wi-Ex.  “With Spot On Networks help, we provided the attendees of the WIRED Business Conference with the ability to stay on top of emails, phone calls and texts, as well as Tweet the latest conference news all while still enjoying the conference.”

 Benefits of using a zBoost cell phone signal booster include:

  • Increases indoor signal coverage
  • Supports multiple users simultaneously
  • Compatible with all U.S. carriers and mobile devices using 800 & 1900 MHz (except Nextel/iDEN or 4G, 2100MHz phones)
  • Increases voice and data transmission
  • Decreases dropped or missed calls
  • No cradle or connections to your phone
  • Extends phone battery life (uses less power when signal is stronger)
  • Protects the carrier network using patented technology

 


zBoost Increases Productivity at Remote Office Locations: Employees No Longer Make a Run for It to Answer Calls or Truck It For Data

April 25, 2012

Wi-Ex (http://www.wi-ex.com), a leading provider of consumer and commercial cell phone signal boosters, today announced a new case study, “zBoost: Ending the Run to Answer Calls or Truck it for Data” showcasing Pro Comm Solutions’ install at a large natural gas producer client. Pro Comm Solutions, a communications company specializing in wired and wireless solutions for its clients, recently used zBoost to help its client enhance its business productivity.

The large natural gas producer client has numerous remote locations that require cell phone and Internet service. One particular location has extremely weak cell phone coverage and due to the remote location relies on cell phones for both voice and data services. The building is an ATCO office trailer with metal siding which also creates a hindrance to using their cell phones. To receive cell phone calls the client was leaving their cell phones in their trucks hooked to a booster and using a Bluetooth headset to make and receive calls. This resulted in several missed calls a day. In addition, to send and receive emails, they would take their laptops to their trucks. This was causing a problem with receiving information in a timely manner.

“For clients like Pro Comm Solutions’ natural gas producer a reliable cell phone signal is a necessity and makes a real difference in the productivity of their employees” said Michael Cummiskey of Wi-Ex. “From small offices to large commercial properties, the zBoost solutions help installers provide their clients with a strong cell phone signal to help their clients end missed calls and slow data.”

Solution
Pro Comm Solutions installed a zBoost YX545. zBoost YX545 cell phone signal boosters extend a Cell Zone™ for multiple users and all devices operating on 800 and 1900 MHz frequency bands except those using Nextel/iDEN, 4G or 2100MHz. zBoost SOHO boosts signal up to 3000 square feet.

They installed the antenna on the edge of the roof and the booster near the middle of the building.. The signal strength improved significantly, as did the data download speeds. They are now able to log into the company’s network and information is received and sent in a timely manner. Phone calls are no longer being missed or dropped.

“The zBoost solution is extremely easy to install and provided our client with excellent results that enabled their employees to more efficiently do their jobs. The client was extremely impressed and is interested in installing additional units in some of their other locations,” said James Sackman with Pro Comm Solutions.

To read the full case study visit: http://www.Wi-Ex.com/Testimonials.aspx


21 Counter-Intuitive Break Ideas to Boost your Productivity at Work!

April 3, 2012

I don’t know about you but, I have Spring fever! I find myself wishing I could be outside because the weather is so nice, so on my breaks at work I like to step outside and enjoy the nice breeze and sunshine. Everyone is guilty of working a long day and not stopping for break but, fact is that everyone needs a break and here are some ideas to give your body and mind a little rest and to boost your productivity at work. I especially like number 3 “Step outside for a fresh perspective”.

“Every self-help program talks about the importance of taking a 10-15 minute break to boost your productivity. Breaks give us much needed time to rest our eyes, move around, stretch our stiff muscles, get more blood and oxygen flowing to our brain, to unwind and obtain a fresh outlook on complex work problems.”

By Arina Nikitina Stepcase Lifehack

1. Listen to a guided meditation. There are plenty of 10-15 minute meditations that allow you to trigger your creativity, let go of muscles tension and take your mind of the work at hand.

All you have to do is put on a headset, close your eyes and enjoy peace and relaxation even in the midst of work chaos.

2. Share your break with a co-worker. Alone, you might not always have the strength to pull yourself away from the computer, but if you have a friend taking breaks with you, it is much easier to stick with your break routine. In addition, it offers a great opportunity to bond with your colleagues and get to know them better.

3. Step outside for a fresh perspective. Leaving a stuffy office and letting yourself enjoy the warmth of the sunlight, the coolness of a breeze and the freshness of the spring air can do miracles to your mind and body. You will come back feeling rejuvenated and ready to approach your work with new energy and a fresh perspective.

4. Close your eyes and take 10 deep breaths. Stand up and walk away from your desk. Find a quiet place, where you can sit down, close your eyes, smile to yourself and take a few deep breaths. Imagine tension, stress and anxiety leaving your body as you breathe out, and peacefulness, positivity and relaxation filling your mind with every breath that you take.

5. Say NO to tension headaches. Slowly roll your neck to the right noticing a slight tension in your neck muscles. Hold this position for a count of 120 (2 minutes), then turn your head to the opposite side and repeat. Enjoy the feeling of warmth and flexibility return to your neck and shoulders.

Read all 21 ideas here.


zBoost: When One is Not Enough

March 27, 2012


zBoost Helps Kiwi Audio Visual Put an End to Dropped Calls and Slow Data for Residential Customers

Company Overview
Kiwi Audio Visual is a highly specialized design and installation firm that works with its clients on a personal level. They provide long-term quality service upon completion of installation. With more than 150 years of combined staff experience and through a full array of superior services, they are one of the premier audio/visual entertainment and home automation providers in Southern California.

Challenge
Consumers rely on their mobile phones for staying connected to personal schedules and emails, as well as business calendars, emails and news. Recent industry stats show there are more than 100 million smartphones in the US and more than one-in-four US homes are now completely wireless. With this growing reliance on mobile phones and devices, consumers expect a reliable cell phone at work and home. Several of Kiwi Audio Visual’s clients are like many Americans who struggle with poor indoor cell phone signal.

According to the zBoost State of the Signal Survey, commissioned by Wi-Ex, a leading provider of consumer and commercial cell phone signal boosters, and conducted online by Harris Interactive, 65 percent of online cell phone/smartphone owners experience problems with their cell phone or smartphone service including dropped calls or data, poor reception or dead zones in their home or poor signal reception or dead zones at work. While Kiwi Audio Visual still sees landlines in most homes they suspects that their clients use their mobile phone 90 percent of the time at home.

Solution
Kiwi Audio Visual had two clients in large homes who had very bad cell locations with little cell coverage indoors. A San Diego residence covered 10,000 square feet and an Orange County covered 14,000 square feet. Both of the clients utilize their cell phone as their primary communications.

The residents used Sprint and Verizon and the zBoost Dual Band Commercial kits increased signal for all major carriers in the homes for multiple users. The signal bars increased from zero to one up to two to four inside the residences. The home owners can now utilize their mobile phones, smartphones and tablets in the home without worrying about dropping calls or slow data.

Kiwi Audio Visual notes the ease of install, great coverage, and repeatability of installation regardless of the size of the residence as key benefits to its customers.

zBoost Products Used
The installs included the zBoost Commercial Solutions Division Kits. The kits include all of the components for a complete system solution whether for commercial environments or large residential applications and utilize the proven zBoost technology from Wi-Ex to improve cell phone voice and data signals.

Benefits

  • Boosts indoor signal for cellphones, smartphones, wireless data cards and wireless alarm panels.
  • Reduces dropped calls and improves cell phone signal indoors, increasing performance of voice and data. Some of the benefits for the cell phone users include extending battery life, replacing landline phones, reducing or eliminating dropped calls and increasing wireless performance.
  • Improves indoor cell phone voice and data signals for all major carriers (except Nextel)
  • Utilizes distributed amplifier architecture for increased reliability and flexibility
  • All system components included for easy installation
  • System kits available for coverage areas up to 20,000 and 40,000 square feet
  • Uses patent-pending technologies that protect the carrier network

National Telework Week Begins Monday

March 2, 2012
I am fortunate that I am able to telework on days when I don’t have appointments in the office.  Atlanta traffic can be daunting on most days so home office days begin in a whole different way than office days.
See the benefits below and if you have the opportunity to telework just one day next week, sign the pledge by clicking on the link below.
 Just one note of caution.  Make sure you have the tools needed to telework.  For me that includes my laptop, smartphone, Wi-Fi connection and of course my zBoost SOHO cell phone signal booster.  With these tools I have full access to the rest of the Wi-Ex team throughout the day.  Since 55% of teleworkers report indoor signal problems a zBoost is a necessity for many teleworkers, including me!
Pledge to Telework

Join National Telework Week 2012, the second-annual effort to encourage agencies, organizations, and individuals to pledge to telework on March 5-9, 2012. Sign up now to determine your impact and savings, and telework during the week of March 5-9, 2012.

Why? Telework is a win-win opportunity for agencies, organizations, employees, and the environment. Telework supports:

Join the movement. During Telework Week 2011, nearly 40,000 pledged, saving $2,730,229 on commuting costs, gaining back 148,692 hours into their day, and removing 1,818 tons of pollutants from the air, while refraining from driving 3,764,001 miles.

For more information go to: http://www.teleworkexchange.com/teleworkweek/


Deadzones: What Does LTE Stand For?

February 23, 2012
This is an older article from deadzones.com  but offers a good explanation of LTE.
LTE = Long Term Evolution

Long Term Evolution (LTE).  It is a new radio platform technology that will allow carriers to give you higher wireless upload and download speeds currently between 5-12 mbps but expected to increase. Verizon Wireless,  AT&T & MetroPCS in the United States and several worldwide LTE carriers began rolling out the new network in 2009.  The world’s first publicly available LTE service was opened by TeliaSonera in the two Scandinavia in December of 2009.
LTE and is part of the GSM evolutionary path beyond 3G technology, following EDGE, UMTS, HSPA (HSDPA and HSUPA combined) and HSPA Evolution (HSPA+). LTE is a set of enhancements to the Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) which was introduced in 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) Release 8.  HSPA Evolution is a stepping-stone of speeds to LTE for many carriers that will be rolled out slowly. Carriers began working on LTE in 2004 3GPP and initial deployment of LTE is targeted for 2010 and 2011. The objective of LTE is to provide a high performance radio access that offers good signal coverage in vehicles that are moving and that can coexist with HSPA and earlier networks. Carriers can scale bandwidth to migrate their networks and users from HSPA to LTE over time in areas that need it most.


zBoost: Featured on Daytime – Home Office Segment

October 26, 2011

The zBoost SOHO was featured on Daytime yesterday in a home office segment presented by Lifestyle expert Brian von Dedenroth.

Working from home is a great benefit but can be less than ideal if you don’t have a home office ready for business.  Key items to a well fitted home office is a dedicated area with plenty of work area and storage space. A window is definitely an asset and if it’s a quiet area, all the better.

At Wi-Ex we have had numerous customers call to say they have spent significant funds to set up a home office in their basement or some other area of their home only to find that they don’t receive cell service.  I had a similar experience when I set up my home office.  I have a room with a beautiful view of our backyard and was determined that my desk would be in front of that window.  Sounded great in theory, until I had to run outside to the driveway yelling, “Can you hear me now?” every time I made or received a call.  A zBoost SOHO was the next and one of the most important additions to my home office.

Please share any tips or products that have made your home office more productive.


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