I just bought a Microsoft Mobile Mouse 3500 for my laptop.  Hoping this would make Unity a little bit easier to develop with.

Well, first the good.

Some parts of the mouse are rubber, which feels grippy.  And the price is OK in the 30 dollar range.

The bad is just about everything else.

The package claims it supports Bluetooth.  However, in reality it does not.  What it does do is it has its own personal Bluetooth “type” radio.  Which means, you absolutely must use their cheap little dongle with the mouse.

The kicker?  Well, these dongles have an average lifespan of around 3 weeks to 4 months with Microsoft.  Half of the average lifespan of the batteries.

Thinking you can replace the dongle?  Think again! You have to replace the entire mouse at full price.

My advice?  Keep shopping.  Buy another companies products.  Why buy something that is destined to end up in your junk bin?

~ed.

Unity 3D Basic, is now free for Android, iOS and (soon to be) BlackBerry developers who earn under 100k a year.

Where can you get it?

http://unity3d.com/unity/download/

At the regular Unity download page.

Want more details? Check out the CrackBerry post

http://crackberry.com/unity-game-engine-be-available-free-blackberry-10-developers

This means saving 400 dollars per OS.  Before this, the cost to develop for these platforms would be 1200 dollars.

Unity, you rock.

~ed.

Having worked with marmalade, cascades and NDK in the past I was a little skeptical. Well wow what a pleasant surprise.

Building an application was beyond simple. It’s functionally a 3D editor that allows you to apply scripts.

It let’s you use JavaScript (cool), c# (yay) and something called boo (o-kay, do we need another language?)

Now the documentation is great. And there are plenty of videos to help. I followed this one carefully: http://m.youtube.com/?reload=3&rdm=mmv9ws3fl#/watch?v=VV3sSM0gjQ8&desktop_uri=/watch?v=VV3sSM0gjQ8

Assets are built in and accessible from the IDE through the asset store (plenty free and sorts by free)

So texturing is pretry sweet.

The only downside is the scary high price. You will pay a minimum of 400/platform. For premium cross platform your looking at 6,000.

So – fun,powerful, expensive. But a very unique experience none the less

Ed.

In case your wondering why the news  hasn’t been updating here very often, that’s because of a new adventure.

About 4 months ago I started a new company with a friend called Red Iron Labs.
We’re already on our 4th large contract. We now have offshore resources. And started to build our assets.

This has kept me quite busy. But I assure you — some great apps are coming!

For those of you interested – yes, it is just as cool as expected.

Now, without further delay!

Telnet 2.0.0.210 and 20.0.0.215 (for Q10 and Z10 respectively)

Download the early releases here:

Q10 Release – 2.0.0.210

Z10 Release – 2.0.0.215

For those of you who have read this far into the post, here is a NSFW app dedicated to CrackBerry Kevin!

Bwahahah

Get it here.

Sent to AppWorld.

Here are some photos below!

I’ll keep adding features as they get requested

Lloyd

OSBBx is running an open BBM chat for anyone wanting to chat with developers!

Simply scan the QR code below into your phone to join the conversation.

As a basic-intensive (and basic-loving) developer, I recently heard about an interesting application:  NSBasic which claims to do multiplatform mobile support using a Visual Basic style editor.  I also have heard a lot about PhoneGap which is getting rave reviews for being multiplatform as well (and in fact turned out to be the driving force for NSBasic).  Interestingly, some of PhoneGap was quite confusing due to strange decisions by the PhoneGap team to give themselves and their applications strange mismatching names.

So, I put aside about 6 hours today to play with NSBasic, PhoneGap and WebWorks to get an idea of the BB5/6/7/10 and PlayBook experience.

Now, for those of you who know me, I don’t like to make readers read unnecessarily.

Quick Verdict:

PhoneGap:  7/10: Keeper

Cons

• Installation was painful.
• Not friendly for junior developers.
• Unusual system requirements, and relies on manually installing JDK and ANT.  BlackBerry requires JDE, which causes ANT conflicts.
• Requires strong OS knowledge and BlackBerry knowledge to resolve issues that will arise for all new users.

Pros

• Free
• Significant positive reviews online
• Truly multi-platform
• The getting started guide was very strong for BlackBerry
• Application looks pretty and includes splash screens
• Includes many platforms
• Seems more solid than BBUI (more devices) and JQuery Mobile standalone (has weird problems with BB/Android/iOS)

NSBasic:  3.5/10: Not Ready for Modern Mobile Devices

Cons

• Even more complex installation procedure
• Trial too limiting, will not allow debugging to devices
• Documentation is very sparse, many functions undocumented
• Expensive, 99 + 49 per upgrade.  99/month for “premium” support
• Debugging done through plain browser, does not reflect mobile devices
• No ripple integration
• All relevant information is on a wiki, which is offline frequently from use
• Significant negative reviews online
• Owners seem to chase negative reviewers rather than spend time attracting new clients
• IDE misses simple errors (delete object with code attached and press debug)

Pros

• Applications look pretty inside the custom IDE
• Assuming you manage to get everything to debug and install easily to multiple devices (as they claim to be working through PhoneGap) it has potential to develop simple applications quickly

Alternatives to NSBasic:

GLBASIC works on iOS, Android, and many unusual platforms such as the GP2X Series.  It does not work on BlackBerry, but it is a really in depth and fun IDE that will remind you of DarkBasic and QBasic.  The support forums are great, the community is warm, and you really get what you pay for with it. 80 EUR or free for students.  But, really, I’ve actually used this in business applications before for a quick solution for a lightweight locked down client.

Basic4Android is an Android Basic language.  It doesnt support iOS.  I haven’t tested porting to BlackBerry.  Price is 49 or free for students.

Enhanced Details on PhoneGap

PhoneGap took several hours to install and configure and seems to have more of a Linux focus.

It did not include a standard windows installer binary and used an “unzip this somewhere and play with it” mentality.  Installation:  It requires WebWorks for BB / PB and QNX (which is expected).  And it requires the Simulators (which is also expected).  However it requires ANT and JDK.  ANT and JDK have a conflict with JRE installed (which is a WebWorks requirement) that causes some fun error messages when trying to use ANT.  There are several fixes, the “dirty” fix is to drop your lib files from JDK to JRE – but this is a bad Windows 95 DLL issue type resolution.

Once installed, I had signing and eventually deployment issues.  I relied on BBHTools for deployment.  However, read the XML’s carefully.  If you have already configured and used WebWorks in the past, signing will be a non-issue.  Remember to use the BlackBerry-Signer.bat -verify (BAR) command line tool from WebWorks to check on the files.  However, if you only installed WebWorks and did not setup signing for each platform, make sure to do so.

Once you manage to get all the issues calmed, and follow the tutorial (which is fantastic) you’ll now have smooth sailing.

Details on NSBasic

NSBasic was more complicated.  This requires PhoneGap + WebWorks.  Which means you need to understand WebWorks, you need to understand PhoneGap and you need to understand NSBasic to troubleshoot issues – provided you have the full version and can use or test your applications on an actual device.  If you are using the Trial, you can’t do any device testing anyway, and it defaults testing to IE or FireFox or whatever browser you have.

You can set Chrome as your default with Ripple, and maybe convince this to use a mobile-like platform.  But this will only work when you “deploy” your application through NSBasic (which, oddly, deploys to their custom server NSApps) and trick Ripple to use it.  Which raises some questions that are not answered anywhere in the documentation or help files – such as what is NSApps as a public server and why do your applications go there by default.

All other deployment options were unavailable, so all you can really do is see it sitting on some NSApps public server – which is unusual.

The Wiki was offline and unavailable.  The actual IDE and UI was surprisingly attractive for the filesize although the IDE missed several big errors that a normal IDE would catch.  You really do feel like you are programming in BASIC.  And although the Debug function is completely unacceptable for replicating Mobile Devices, it did make it easy to test changes.

The major outstanding issue for me was the missing documentation.  There was a lack of focus on the application itself.  It felt like a junior IDE with potential, but it feels like its in Beta.

With that said, if you absolutely need to develop in Basic on multiple platforms – this *may* be the application for you.  It is attractive, and if purchased as a full version, if it can actually be deployed to mobile devices with ease (I suspect it will require major hands-on modifications to get the installers on the devices) it could be a great way to save time and build applications.

Its fun, it has great potential, but it is too limited for me to feel comfortable using it.  The NSBasic team will need to realize that by preventing a developer from seeing an NSBasic application on a mobile device, they will likely balk at the price.  For the amount of work it takes to install, your better off installing Cascades and using a beautiful toolset at a lower OS level.  Or taking out the middleman and using PhoneGap directly to get the most out of your applications. NSBasic looks to be a product of the WebGL/PalmOS/WinCE days and is not ready for modern phones.  This is especially true when held up to the high standards of other BlackBerry development IDE’s.  If you can rely on any other language, I would bypass NSBasic for now until they revisit their strategies and invest more time in the toolset.

This is just my two cents, sorry if the review seems harsh.  But I had to provide an honest review.

More info on this here:  http://forums.crackberry.com/developers-lounge-f9/has-anyone-tried-nsbasic-app-studio-659580/#post6759214

Ed.

<Insert funny mention here>.  Well, in all honesty its been a very busy time.  I’ve been contracted for a few large apps and of course I’m trying to forward port all my applications.

Secure Browser has been extremely difficult to port forward due to changes from RIM for AIR.  I’ve already had to rewrite two of their classes and about 2400 lines of code.  But it is coming along nicely.  Media Connect has some fun updates planned.

And I dont even know what to tell you about the new apps except they are exciting

For those on PB wondering why there aren’t many apps from developers in general, a lot of the SDK’s aren’t backwards compatible.  Which means we are looking at about 3-5 months of little app availability on the PlayBook (it should recieve BB10 around summer time).

Hold tight though, they are coming!

~Ed.

Hi Guys,

I’ve released a few open source applications for BlackBerry and wanted to share them with you.

Blockish-Undead
https://github.com/KermEd/blockish-undead, Original: http://sourceforge.net/projects/blokish/
Language: Java
Platforms: Android & BlackBerry 10 / PB 2.1
Android app, Packaged to BAR and remade for BB10 compatibility

GLRacer
Formerly GLTron (but TRON was rejected by Appworld)
https://github.com/KermEd/glracer-master, Original: http://sourceforge.net/projects/gltron/
Language: Java
Platforms: Android & BlackBerry 10 / PB 2.1
Android app, Packaged to BAR and remade for BB10 compatibility

OpenLife
Formerly DroidLife (but the term Droid was rejected by AppWorld)
https://github.com/KermEd/OpenLife, Original: http://code.google.com/p/droidlife/source/checkout
Language: Java
Platforms: Android & BlackBerry 10 / PB 2.1
Android app, Packaged to BAR and remade for BB10 compatibility

ReplicaIsland
All graphics needed to be redone as they had the “android” robot and were rejected by AppWorld
https://github.com/KermEd/replicaisland, Original: http://code.google.com/p/replicaisland/
Language: Java
Platforms: Android & BlackBerry 10 / PB 2.1
Android app, Packaged to BAR and remade for BB10 compatibility

PerfectPancakes
https://github.com/KermEd/MarmaldePerfectPancakes
Language: Marmalade, C++
Platforms: Android & BlackBerry 10 / PB 2.1
C++ Packaged to BAR and APK

Desktop Browser
** Was not allowed on AppWorld **\
https://github.com/KermEd/AS3_Desktop_Browser_PB_SDK_1
Language: AS3 (Flash Builder)
Platforms: BlackBerry 10 / QNX
Basic web stage view example as a functional browser.

x929
** Was not allowed on AppWorld **\
https://github.com/KermEd/x929
Language: AS3 (Flash Builder)
Platforms: BlackBerry 10 / QNX
Basic web stage view example as a functional browser.

Starfield
http://www.filearchivehaven.com/apps/starfield/
Language: AS3 (Flash Builder)
Platforms: BlackBerry 10 / QNX
Shows a moving starfield. Good example of multi-dimensional arrays in AS3.

Flying Toasters
http://www.filearchivehaven.com/apps/flying-toasters/
Language: AS3 (Flash Builder)
Platforms: BlackBerry 10 / QNX
Shows flying toast and toasters. Good example of multi-dimensional arrays in AS3.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CtOl3HGjU3k

Lesson to be learned:  You can learn a lot from a smart person who knows how to play the spoons.  This makes me want to go learn how to play!

I want to take a minute to discuss something very important, Disaster Recovery and Backup Plans.  Here is my current setup and hopefully inspires some others to create their own!  This is just how I setup my own backups at home, and many people do it different ways.

For young (especially free opensource) developers, it can be very difficult to find backup solutions.  As a developer, you are always responsible for your customers – which means being responsible for your code.  Many times I have seen great projects die overnight because a PC’s harddrive failed, or a website backed up “blank” files, or the backups required configuration files that only existed on the (now dead) master.

Setting up a dedicated backup PC (optional)

This is optional.  You can backup to a second PC in your household (This will give you a redundant backup solution).  However in my case, I wanted a second layer of protection so that if my backups fail they can still be recovered.

To do this, I decided to build a media / file server that would hold both a RAID0 for media sharing, and a RAID5 for the backups.  The RAID5 allows me to lose one drive in the cluster, and still not lose any data.

You can purchase a NAS for several thousand that will do this.  But using NewEgg, I purchased 4x 2TB 7200 RPM drives and 1x 128GB SSD – with enough space to expand to 12 spinning disk drives.  I also purchased two RAID controllers and everything else I needed for a basic storage backup system.

Drive Y (Share): 1x 2GB was setup for RAID0

Drive X (Backups): 3x 2GB was setup for RAID5 (which came out to about 4GB because of the redunancy)

I originally went with Windows Server 2012, but I had a hard time finding free software alternatives for anything and realized it was a bit too much for what I needed.  Instead I moved it to Windos 8, enabled file sharing and enabled DLNA.  I also installed PlayOn, TVersity, and ORB because I know that DLNA does not stream properly to Xbox 360.

Once I had all my shares setup, enabled permissions for my user accounts, it was time to begin backing up!

Installing Free Opensource Backup Software

Note:  You can also create ISO images of your operating system for backup purposes!  I chose not to, and only backup my data.

I tried a lot of different packages.  But I opted for Areca because it was simple to use, allowed for incremental backups (so I could restore a file from its state one week ago, 4 weeks ago, or a year ago) and setup scheduling.

Step 1:  Install Areca

Step 2:  Create the following folders on your backup share:

Y:\Backups

Y:\Backups\PC_NAME-ArecaBackup

Y:\Backups\PC_NAME-ArecaBackup\Logs

Y:\Backups\PC_NAME-ArecaBackup\Batches

Y:\Backups\PC_NAME-ArecaBackup\Workspace

Y:\Backups\PC_NAME-ArecaBackup\Backup

Step 3:  Run Areca, press Select, and specify the Workspace folder (above).

This is where the configuration files will be saved.  You want these files on the fileshare to make sure you can access your configuration files in the event of a failure!

Step 4: Right click and select New Group, call it Backups

Step 5:  Right click and select New Target, call it Backups (PC NAME)

Step 6:  For Local Repository, specify the path above that says Backup

Step 7:  Under Sources, select the folders you wish (usually your C:\Users\Your_Name, and any special local folders with development files)

Step 8:  Compression, select Zip 64 and check Store each file seperately and check Add “.zip” extension

This way, you can manually rescue the files if you really need to via the output ZIP files.

Step 9:  Under post-processing, add two settings.  Store the local report on disk, and specify the folder above entitled logs.  Send the report by email, and you can email yourself when backups complete.

Your backups are now ready.

Creating a backup strategy (so you dont have to manually run it every day)

Step 1:  Press Edit > Wizards > Generate Strategy

Step 2:  Under Location use the folder above called Batches

Step 3:  Use the settings below:

One archive each 1 day for 7 times (it means incremental backups every day for 1 week)

Then one archive each 7 days for 8 times (it means incremental backups for every week for 8 weeks)

Then one archive for each 63 days for 4 times (it means incremental backups for every two months or so)

Step 4:  Launch Windows Task Schedular

Step 5:  Create a daily, weekly and monthly task (that runs at different times)

Step 6:  Tell it to use your current user (not the global user) and run the batch files you created.  Specify the start folder as the batch folder above.

Step 7:  Test one and make sure it works!

Hints:  One thing to mention, I added a second layer of logging inside the actual BAT files.  I have it create a log file called DailyRunning.log to store the date/time/status using >> for piping.  At the end I rename DailyRunning.log to DailyDone.log – this way I can see via FTP at work if my backups completed or what the status is without requiring remote access.

Closing notes:

This isn’t quite true DR!  For one, I only take manual images of my OS every so often as ISO’s.

Technically you should not keep your data backups in the same building as your actual PC (EMC requires 1,000 KM distance).   But, I do have the added protection of all my systems submitting data to one central server for backups.  And the backups are running on RAID5 so that I can lose a hard-drive without losing all my data. This means my data is double protected with the ability to revert to an earlier version of all files on my network at almost anytime.

I also have a cloud storage solution that I use for source code (private Github) but you could use a DropBox account the same way!  Hope this helps someone with setting up their backups as this is the system I found that works best for me today.

If you have read this far, you are a brave person (it was a lot of writing!).

Ed.

I wanted to bring to light one handy piece of open source software that came across my plate today.

What it does and why you need it:  Clonezilla can be burnt to a CD or DVD as a LIVE cd.  This means, it can run as a boot device when you have no operating system installed.  It leverages a light version of Debian.  But most interesting for me, it allows you to completely clone a HD / SSD to another HD / SSD including storing an image inbetween (should you be unable to connect both HD’s at once).  What makes it really stand out though is that it also clones the bootloader.

You see, this morning, the SSD that houses my main PC finally ran out of space again (60GB Agility 2).  Being that I was tired of always emptying it, I decided to switch to a new SSD (128GB Agility 4).  On a side note, I am using Windows 7 because… well Windows 8 terrifies me.

Why this is important, Windows Vista, 7 and 8 have built in partition software in the Disk Manager that makes it phenomenally easy to resize your parttion (that means you no longer need to rely on EASUS Partition Magic, etc).  Now I did install Windows 8 for my mom’s all-in-one PC (HP) but just can’t find myself connecting to Windows 8 yet (although the mobile version is spectacular).

Anyway, I was able to migrate from my old SSD to the new SSD in about 15 minutes (including drive mounting, running SATA cables, etc) and that is with using Windows 7 to repartition the new drive.  Long story short, its a fabulous piece of software and if you are a collector of Live CD’s, Rescue CD’s or UBCD – this is worth adding to your collection.  And it made it super easy to move to a new drive.

For anyone else migrating from an old to a new drive, here is an awesome post to follow.  At this pooint, I’m now sitting with a spare 60 GB SSD and debating if I really want to reimage both drives together in RAID 0 and install Windows 8.  I just dont want to go through the hassle of reinstalling all my software and reconfiguring all my servers, media servers, video games, windows settings etc. etc.

Cheers,

Ed.

While I was at the office the other day, I needed access to music and I only had my BlackBerry 10 device and QNX PlayBook available.  So I put together this quick application for the devices.  Hopefully the official x929 application will be updated to these platforms.

Get the application here:

Download x929 for BlackBerry 10 / PlayBook
Downloaded 1204 times

And please dont forget you will need to sideload it as it is not available in AppWorld.

Lloyd

I had a fun presentation at the STC-Alberta.org event last night, and I wanted to share my presentation with the anyone who might find it interesting!  My original presentation is almost 200 slides, but I’ve mode it down to about 40.

Topics:

Introduction
Setting up the SDK
Preparation
Getting Support
Planning
Programming for Mobile
Completing your App

Presentation File:

Mobile Application Development 1.6 – Outline – BRIEF

Mobile Application Development 1.6 – Presentation – BRIEF

One of the challenges facing users on the BlackBerry PlayBook, is the difficulty in finding open source applications and ensuring you have the latest version.  OSBBx would like to present App Centre, a team application put together to allow users to download the latest version of open source and free applications directly to the BlackBerry PlayBook or PC.

Features:

• PB Version:  Localbar 2 support built in for on-device installation
• Win Version:  BAR installation tools built in allowing for download and immediate installation
• Browse the latest emulators and open source applications right from your PlayBook

Downloads:

• .BAR Download link for the BlackBerry PlayBook:  Download
• .EXE Download link for Windows:   Download 
• Mobile Version:  Visit

Special Thanks to all the OSBBx team members who contributed to this app!  As a combined effort we had over 10 people contributing on this project.

More information available at the OSBBx Development Site here: OSBBx Introduces App Centre for the BlackBerry PlayBook!

If you are like me, you may have received a BlackBerry Dev Alpha unit!  More importantly, you may have had to do a security wipe on it.

Well, unlike the PlayBook and all other devices, doing a Security Wipe on a Dev Alpha *will* brick your device.  But, you *can* unbrick it…

At the start, you will have failures saying USB Mass Storage Device errors.  I’m going to assume you are using Windows Vista/7 and have your Alpha plugged in.

Step 1:  Keep the alpha plugged in using the USB cable that came with it

Step 2:  Click on Start > Run > Device Manager

Step 3:  Expand USB

Step 4:  See if there is a yellow exclamation point beside a USB Mass Storage driver

Step 5:  If so, right click and select Uninstall

Step 6:  Unplug your alpha

Step 7:  Close desktop manager

You should now be at a clean state….

Step 8:  Install the driver package here:  http://www.bbdevgroup.nl/BB10%20Dev%20Alpha/Device%20Driver%20BB10%20dev%20Alpha.zip

Step 9:  Launch Desktop Manager

Step 10:  Wait for it to fully load

Step 11:  Connect your Alpha

It will start trying to install drivers.  It most likely will detect it as a phone and nothing else interesting will happen.

Step 12:  Hold the two volume buttons + power button down for about 10 seconds

Your Alpha should reboot

Step 13:  Watch Desktop Manager carefully.

You should soon as you see “Update/Retry/Cancel” right around when the BB10 alpha logo comes up

Step 14:  As soon as the options appear, press Update

Step 15:  Wait for the update to be recognized

Note:  If it detects no update, takes forever, and eventually your Alpha logs in – let it finish until it says no updates.  Your device will appear as Unknown.   Go back to Step 12.  Might take a few attempts

Step 16:  Eventually an update is detected, and you can start your update.

Voila!

You can read and troubleshoot with others at the source here:  http://208.74.204.192/t5/Testing-and-Deployment/BB10-Dev-Alpha-Device-Driver-or-how-to-restore-the-OS/td-p/1735097/highlight/false

~Ed.

Hi Everyone,

I wanted to share some useful troubleshooting information with everyone.

I wanted to go from a 32GB to a 64GB I purchased off another CB user Thanks 71 GS, I am loving it. Seems simple right? Mmm, not so much – but it seems like it may work. I’m using OS 2.1 beta and a Windows 7 64bit laptop and thought I would share some issues (and resolutions) with you fine folks..

Planned Process:

1. Backup 32GB PB
2. Wipe 64GB PB
3. Update 64GB PB
4. Use same BBID on Both (to prevent Tablet Outage)
5. Reload 64GB PB

Notes: I’m using the two tablets for myself, one at home one at work, and for the purpose of testing multiplaybook apps. So I may keep the same BBID on both…

Problem #1:

32GB PlayBook would not backup (has not for many months)

Note: I had about 300 apps with tons of gamesaves, not something I wanted to lose

Solution to #1:

I ended up deleting about 220 apps before backups would complete. Even then, it only actually worked 1 out of 10 times. The trick, is that the 9/10 failures occurred immediately. The 1 out of 10 times for failure occurred after xxGB’s. After some app caused problems. I deleted all the smaller apps with many files (news feeds etc) and any app without a gamesave.

Tips:

Known apps to cause this, PC Recipes, Any Recipe App, Android 1 Runtime, Weather Apps. Look for apps with two icons in different places. Look for apps that are in the Installed list of AppWorld but missing from your Folders. Ensure you are using your real PB cable. Everytime you backup, it will go “farther” on a successful backup, assuming you deleted the faulty app. You can use this to troubleshoot… painfully.

Additional Info for people: PlayBook: There was an error backing up. | File Archive Haven

Problem #2:

64GB PlayBook arrived at 0% battery, would not charge

Note: I have USB and Rapid Charger with the base

Solution to #2:

I ended up unplugging and replugging the PlayBook via USB charger to Wall a half a dozen times with about 20-30 seconds inbetween (because sometimes the rapid charger and dock chargers wont charge the PlayBook). Then I rebooted the PlayBook, unplugged the charger, and plugged it back in when the red light came on. I left it as-is for 15 minutes, booted the device and it was at 1%. Then I used the rapid charging dock to charge it back to 100%.

Additional Info for people: KB27705-BlackBerry PlayBook Power – Battery charge and discharge characteristics and Play book wont power up or light just blinks – BlackBerry Support Community Forums and

Problem #3:

64GB PlayBook would not load a backup due to OS mismatch

Solution to #3:

I was able to resign up for the BlackBerry Beta to test: https://developer.blackberry.com/devzone/register. The OS still doesnt fully match because I was in the US for a while (which pushed the US Video Store) but I’m not sure if it will cause any issues. I really dont want the US video store, so I’m happy to omit it if I can from the new PlayBook..

Problem #4:

64GB PlayBook would not restore, failure occurred immediately

Note: Because it was so painful to backup, because I still have 20 GB of app data, and because BDM is so slow, I only created a handful of backups. It takes a full day sometimes for me to get a backup due to the problems above.

Solution to #4:

Use a custom restore. Restore your PB separately in three parts (App Data, Media and Settings). In my case, App Data and Settings works (sort of). Media does not.

Lingering Issues:

Interestingly, I restored the “Settings” first. When I analyzed the PlayBook, none of my settings restored to my PlayBook at all. In addition, 1 application (that I made myself ironically) pushed to the device with the Settings load. Showing that the settings contain more than they say it does.

Tips:

You can manually copy your Documents and Media over. So if thats the area that gets kiboshed, you are still in luck.

My status right now: ~2 GB out of 11 GB to go from my (hopefully) final restore. But at least it isn’t at an immediate error state.

Sorry for the wall of text, I will keep updating the above as I work through the hiccups. Might make for a nice one-stop manual for PB users moving devices and looking for issues & fixes.

Ed.

Overload for the BlackBerry PlayBook:  http://appworld.blackberry.com/webstore/content/reviews/119676

This aplication was the first of its kind.  All other applications are clones.

This quick little app is great for the moments you really need it.  It was requested by F2 on the user forums.

This application causes many system libraries, to re-init without rebooting your BlackBerry® PlayBook™.  This is great for when some applications that are library dependant simply wont load.  Or your Browser just suddenly won't launch anymore. 

When this application completes - re-launch your intended application and it should re-initialize the under layer of your BlackBerry® PlayBook™.

The next release will have both a soft and hard reset.  This version contains a hard reset.

~KermEd.

 Secure Browser Trial:  http://appworld.blackberry.com/webstore/content/127337/?lang=en

Secure Browser - Trial

Thank you for previewing this browser.  This is a TRIAL release only, which means it will present a pop-up periodically to remind you that this is for trial purposes.  It is not intended to be used long-term but to allow you to verify if Secure Browser meets your browsing needs..

What is it:  
-----------
Secure Browser is a simplified web-browser that protects your information as the ultimate privacy browser.  This browser does not allow access to browser history, it has privacy modes, and password protects your favorites!  It is the perfect browser for protecting your information and allowing you to change your browser type.  This browser is based on my free Desktop Browser.

** This browser is not intended to replace the stock BlackBerry® PlayBook™ browser, but accompanies it by providing a secure alternative for protecting your information. ** 

How does the Authentication Work?
-----------
Your password is a separate encrypted password from your normal BlackBerry® PlayBook™ password.  You need to authenticate once everytime the browser is launched.  And authentication will remain for the remainder of the user session.  You will not need to re-authenticate until you close and re-open the browser.

Features
-----------------
* Quick searches
* Quick jump points
* Multi-tabs (max of 9)
* Theme support (8 themes)  
* User Agents (11 to select)
* Can 'Google' from the URL bar
* Password protect your favorites
* Can load local files (in release 1.0.8)
* Password protected notes section (for password tracking)
* Enable/Disable Javascript, Reflow, other options
* Prevents access to your history
* Works through Tether, Bridge, Wifi
* Privacy Modes enabled
* Web Inspector
* GoGames / GoApps
* Find on Page
* + Many more!

Full Description

If you are like me, all too often you see the following message anytime you try to backup your PlayBook:  There was an error backing up.  There could have been a problem with the device or the connection during the backup.  Verify that the device is on and connected.

Translation appears to be:  Hey, we were searching for files to package for backup, and something bad happened.  We are waiting for files but they never arrived (unexpected files missing or USB timeout).

Here are some “general” suggestions. I have to warn you this is a complete PITA. I had to remove over 230 applications to make this work.

#1) Other: Save No App Data (Gave Saves), but Quickly Resolve the Issue

Fix:

1. Backup your Media files (custom backup): How to back up your BlackBerry PlayBook — and why I
2. Backup your Settings (custom backup): How to back up your BlackBerry PlayBook — and why I
3. Perform a secure wipe of your PB: KB27188-How to perform a security wipe on a BlackBerry PlayBook tablet
4. Reload your Media and Settings
5. Take a few backups to make sure its working

#2) Other: Potential Quick Fix

Steps:

1. Delete PC Recipe App and all other Recipe Apps
2. Delete all Weather Apps especially WeatherEye HD
3. Delete all News Apps
4. Delete all GPS Apps
5. Delete any suspicious apps or apps with many files
6. Verify Backup is working. Depending on the potential error, see below.

#3) Quick Failure: Immediate PlayBook Backup Failure, Keeping your Data

This failure usually occurs at 100 bytes. It happens frequently. This failure is likely an OS corruption of some kind or timeout reading some file. It happens about 4 out of 5 times. But it works 1 out of 5 times. It can also be caused by sideloading the Android 1 player onto your PB as it prevents backups by some strange corruption to the file system.

Steps:

1. Turn off wifi sharing
2. Turn off file sharing
3. Connect via USB
4. Ensure your cable is your PB usb cable not a phone usb cable
5. Perform a backup of Media (will likely succeed)
6. Perform a backup of Settings (will likely succeed)
7. Perform a backup of Apps (this will fail 3-4 times out of 5, but will eventually work)

Fix:

1. Once you have a partial working Backup, take one more of the entire system.
2. Wipe your PB and load the Backup

#4) Partial Failure: Part way through backup your backup fails, Keeping your Data

This is believed to be caused by a faulty application installation. The apps vary widely from PC Recipes, to Weather apps, to News apps. But I’ve developed a “method” for identifying this.

Steps:

1. If you have MANY applications, delete all the small applications you do not use
2. Avoid applications with a large number of files
3. Any application that generated an Error 0008 and stayed installed needs to be removed
4. Any application that has MORE than one icon (check all your folders) has been incorrectly installed. Remove these by holding on the icon and pressing Delete
5. Any application listed in AppWorld (turn off wifi to have an easier time deleting from AppWorld) that does not exist in any folder, is also going to cause the failure. Delete any apps missing from your Dock from within AppWorld.
6. Any application listed in a Dock that is not listed in AppWorld (again trust me, turn off wifi) is going to cause the failure. Delete the stray application from the dock.

Fix:

1. Once you have a full and proper backup, do a secure wipe of your PlayBook
2. Reload your Backups
3. Make two more Backup attempts to ensure it was successful

References

URL’s:

1. Still unable to Back up Playbook! – Page 13 – BlackBerry Support Community Forums
2. Desktop 6.0.2.44 released – Page 2 – BlackBerry Support Community Forums
3. Playbook will not Back up! – Page 10 – BlackBerry Support Community Forums
4. Bad Apps Cause PlayBook Backups to Fail
5. Contact Research In Motion (RIM) – Canada

Windows 8, BB10, iPhone 5, so much brewing at the same time.

The next 12 months is destined to be an exciting time for techies and here is why.  Windows 8 Mobile was announced (or should we say clarified) recently.  This is no big surprise on its own, but the changes it brings are very impacting.

First, what some consumers put first: connectivity.  The flipcase for the Windows 8 tablet family is designed to also be a keyboard.  Nice, but not worth writing home about.  After all its still a simple clone of an iPad cover.

What is exciting is the OS architecture changes.  The Windows 8 Mobile will support NT to an extent).  What does this mean in English?  It means many desktop applications are almost completely compatible

It will use modern Windows filesystems.  Familiar exploration techniques.  But most of all, finally, some compatibility.  Lets be honest, outside of Windows, Microsoft has been a pain.  Even on XBox, they cram ads in an already expensive subscription system to bring im extra cash.  Apps on their appworld are typically 2-3 dollars more than other devices.  And their mobile devices have been under powered.

Now we are looking at true multitasking, multicore access.  This is similar to the BB10 OS (which stole a trick from Apple, rebuilding their OS entirely on a UNIX system for multitasking and well… Better everything).  And now simplicity.  Think of it this way, Win8 has the potential to run Torchlite 3 on day of release, full version Minecraft, full flash, full silverrlight, yes netflix and skype and hulu.  Firefox, Open Office, Office 2010, you name it.

In my best bet, the BB10 will be the best chance of giving Microsoft a run for their money.  The only risk here — Windows has always dominated.  And if they can truely provide a.seamless Windows experience, users simply will not be able to resist.

I mentioned iPhone 5.  Sorry, Apples losing its innovative edge. I have little to say except its more of the same thing.  It is possible Apple may finally lose its competitive edge if it doesnt have a useful contribution soon.

Just my two cents.

Ed

Hi Everyone,

Major updates for VBAMPB (GBA emulator on the PB).

Justin (http://forums.crackberry.com/playbook-apps-games-f243/vbam-port-playbook-gba-gb-gbc-emu-687687/index15.html) aka jtokarchuk made the great changes.  Don’t miss a chance to update this EMU as part of the refresh project.

Awesome work to Justin and team.

GBA Emulator VBAMpb, Download 1.0.1.3 Forum Link UPDATED

Note:  Store your ROMs in misc/roms/gba (file extension and folder need to be lower case)

In case anyone needs it, I have created two quick Google Voice apps at the request of SCrid2000.

http://www.filearchivehaven.com/downloads/beta

One beta for Dev Alpha BB10 users, one for PlayBook users.

Cheers,

Ed.

PCSX-ReARMed – PS1 Games on the PB

Finally, a real reason to upgrade to a 64GB PlayBook!

This awesome emulator lets you play many many many PS1 games (yes, FF7, Resident Evil, and many more work).  It has tons of features.  But why waste your time?

1)  Start some ISO’s (assuming you legally own the PS1 games, and it is legal in your country) through isohunt or another torrent engine.

2)  Sideload the PCSX emulator to your PB

3)  Run the PCSX emulator to create the folders.  Close the application.

4)  Download this BIOS to PB\media\misc\pcsx-rearmed-pb\

5)  Save your games to PB\media\misc\pcsx-rearmed-pb\iso

And done!

Thanks to Geoff for all the hard work!  I should mention, I have had no glitches on this.  There is lots of troubleshooting instructions in the forum thread – mostly just making sure your BIOS is correct.

Feature list and info available at the forum link:  http://forums.crackberry.com/playbook-apps-games-f243/playstation-emulator-playbook-pcsx-rearmed-pb-719186/

See the other emus and refresh projects here:  http://www.filearchivehaven.com/2012/02/01/must-have-applications-for-side-loading/

~ed

http://forums.crackberry.com/playbook-apps-games-f243/emulator-refresh-project-719500/index2.html

Work performed by jtokarchuk

Supports NES files

Whats new:  Many things, but the primary is a rom selector and troubleshooting settings.

Download: http://filearchivehaven.com/downloads/pb/cb/FCEUXpb-1_0_1_2.bar

Emulator Repository:  http://www.filearchivehaven.com/2012/02/01/must-have-applications-for-side-loading/

How to install:  http://www.filearchivehaven.com/2011/10/20/blackberry-android-and-thank-you-ddpb-installer/

~ed.

Chances are:  If you know this guy, he’s stolen something from you overtime.  He’s currently selling stolen merchandise online in Vietnam and on eBay, as well as creating large piracy rings.

You see, Piracy on the PlayBook has become a hot topic lately, as piracy has been targeting the small developers more and more (and large developers, less and less).  The flip-side, is it makes pirate ring leaders such as vanphuongvn, a lot more money than it does for the little developers.

For example, the person above, hosts a website that contains over 500 stolen PlayBook applications and Games — almost all of which are being sold by small independent developers for around 99 cents to 1.99 with some over 18.

Now, generally I’m not an advocate for cracking down on Piracy.  And I understand, when your 14 and going to school, you don’t always have a PayPal account, Credit card or ability to put money onto your devices.  But guys like this are actively profiting off of stolen applications by hosting them online with invasive advertisements and on a website containing large amounts of malware.

RIM

Word on the street is that RIM is actively changing the PB’s OS to begin to target these types of people.  But I think that isn’t enough.

What Can We Do?

Not much!  He lives in Vientam and is well out of the reach of ordinary folks for legal action.  What we can do is email/call/mail/bbm/fb/youtube him as much as possible to cause him to stop his actions.  The beautiful part about people like Le Van Phuong, is he relies entirely on his username (vanphuongvn) to bring in his income through his real job.  Which means we may not be able to legally do much.  But we can affect his income, which is a swift justice.

What do we know about him?

Important Notes:
This email account’s login and password were stolen when BKAV (Vientnamese security firm) had details stolen and released on the internet. However it is still being actively used on the BKAV website, as well as many other places. Suggesting the account was recovered by the owner and is still in control of the owner. Be aware though – there is a slim possibility someone could be copying and using all of this persons information. Details here: Bkav cleartext passwords.

Piracy Site Status:
Website Risk: Dangerous (malware/ddos)
Active
Many Apps Primarily from Small Developers

Believed the site is collecting user details via javascript exploits and malware throuhg advertisements. Accessing the piracy site from BB devices will use web exploits to cause DDOS and other problems with the PB. Unsure if data collection exploit over web to contact details is still being used. Avoid visiting at all costs on BB devices. Unknown if they are “Adding” things to the pirated apps.

DO NOT TRUST PURCHASES FROM THIS INDIVIDUAL, he has admitted to running online “sales” scams to sell mobile devices to victims.  Watch out when doing business with this individual as his intent is to scam you at all costs

Names used:
Liên Hệ, Lê Văn Phượng, Văn Phượng, LÊ PHƯỢNG

Usernames:
vanphuong_vn
congtuthanhdo10
vanphuongvn
vuhai6

Emails he sells “scammed” items from
congtuthanhdo10@gmail.com,
dailybkavhcm@gmail.com,
support@<piracy_site>.<site_suffix>,
<piracy_site><site_suffix>@gmail.com

Websites used:
L
ĐáºI LÝ BKAV

http://<piracy_site>.<site_suffix>/author/vanphuongvn/

* Warning DO not visit this site on your PB or BB. It does steal information from your systems for hackers.

Uses adf.ly for advertisements (must have an account with them?)
Uses a non-standard fileshare site (no report buttons)

Has 10 more, more nefarious websites covering his darker exploits.  However they contain extremely reactive malware – proceed with caution.

Phone Numbers he uses as a sales associate for calling him back:
BB (RIM) Cell: 0908 986 837
Điện Thoại: 0908 986 837

Units he claims to have scammed users with:
8300 BlackBerry, iPhone, many more

SONO S2 UT Tech for Phone Company
PB and Touchpad

PB Details

Case Details:
44.99 RIM FOLIO
Purchased from BestBuy
Purchased Jan 17/ 2012
SN 36881BBR, SKU 2496236
LC 200001123681316

Country:
Vietnam

Address he claims to ship from: 

39 Trần Chánh Chiếu – P.14 – Q.5 – HCM

Yahoo IM:
congtuthanhdo10

Final Details:
Has used blackberry support forums.

CrackBerry ID:
vanphuongvn (looks deleted)

YouTube:
congtuthanhdo10 – YouTube

Photobucket:
Pictures by vanphuongvn – Photobucket

Facebook
congtuthanhdo10@gmail.com

What Does He Look Like?
IMG-20111123-00008.jpg picture by vanphuongvn – Photobucket

PIN

See QR code below

Avoid doing business with him at all costs.

Minecraft is known for being not so much a game as an experience. To be able to mine, to farm, to build a house, a village, a town, a city… all within a world that can be expanded to eight times the Earth’s surface, given every block is a metre-wide cube. There is, clones not included, nothing quite like it.

But the standard, vanilla experience isn’t for everyone, and for that reason there are all sorts of ways to tweak your Minecraft experience so you’re getting what you want out of it. So what are the three ways you can mix it up?

1) Texture packs.

Being able to re-skin the entire game is incredibly easy – download the texture pack, drop it into the texture packs folder (not while the game is running – this is important), boot the game up, and boom! New look. It might take a while to adjust (spotting ore, etc), but to give the game a new look can really change things for you – especially if you feel the game doesn’t look quite right for what you want to build, whether you’re constructing a castle or a skyscraper-size version of the PartyPoker logo.

2) Mods.

Mods will change the way the game plays, what’s in it, and what abilities you have, but they’re not supported by Mojang themselves, so you’re on your own if things go wrong. But their capabilities are astonishing – automated quarries, more animals, floating islands, new items, airplanes, guns, windmills, lifts – the possibilities are many, and one of them in particular (Millenaire) makes Mojang’s attempt at NPC-filled villages look absolutely terrible.

3) Custom maps.

Custom maps are world saves that have had anything from recreations of Star Wars locations and ships to adventure maps full of puzzles and monsters to defeat, which can be a ton of fun if you’re not really enjoying the sandbox feel of normal Minecraft exploration, combat, building and resource collection.

Of course, Minecraft is what you make it, so the most important thing is to have fun playing it, however you choose to play it. See you in Minecraftia!

Disclaimer:  Connect to TVersity requires a PC and utilizes networking.  This may take some people out of their comfort level for the first time while configuring your systems to use this application.  But the rewards are great.

User level:  Medium to Hard (when things go wrong)

Limitations:  Requires paid server application, not the best method for this application.

Benefits:  Works on Windows, Linux and Mac OS X

Installing TWonky

Step 1: Download Twonky and install it on your main PC that hosts the videos and audio files you want to share on your device.  You can download here (~15 Mb).  Specifically you want to install Twonky Server 6 or higher.

Please note:  I have neither a MacBook nor a Linux server at home.  So I can’t help much with the install on those platforms.

Windows Install Information

Step 2: Enter your Product Key (if you have one) or press Next to go into Trial mode.

Step 3:  Name your server, make it a safe set of words because you will see it on other devices in your home.

Step 4:  Use express install.

Step 5:  When asked, I picked no to TwonkyCopy and TwonkyBeam – but you might want to have these enabled.  Its really up to you.

Configuring TWonky

Step 1:  Right click on the TWonky icon in your Windows Notification Area and select Media server settings.

Step 2:  Select the Sharing  tab and specify your media folders.

For those about to ask, you can find your iTunes folder by looking here.

Configuring your PlayBook

Step 1:  Download Connect to TVersity onto your PlayBook

Alternatively you can use the stock browser to connect using URL http://your_IP:9000/resources/remote/remoteaccess.html.

Step 2:  Launch the Connect to TVersity app, it should detect that you have not configured the software.  Swipe down from the top of your bezel to launch the configuration screen.

Step 3:  In the drop down for an unused server entry, select TWonky, enter the IP of your PC and the Port if needed.  By default TWonky uses port 9000.

Tip:  Find the local IP Address of your system (not your external IP address) if you want to work within your local network (not using internet). You can do this by using Start > Cmd > ipconfig /all, more information on this process here.  Write this number down, this is your local IP connection and is needed for the next step(s).

For more complex installations (accessing TWonky outside of the home) you need to specify your external IP address or FQDN.  And you need to make an exception to your router for port forwarding.  You can see examples of this in the Advanced Connection section for TVersity.

~ed

Disclaimer:  Connect to TVersity requires a PC and utilizes networking.  This may take some people out of their comfort level for the first time while configuring your systems to use this application.  But the rewards are great.

User level:  Easy

Limitations:  Requires internet access.

Benefits:  Free server software with a simple interface, requires purchase for Hulu etc.  Works on Mac OS X.

Installing Orb

Step 1: Download Orb and install it on your main PC that hosts the videos and audio files you want to share on your device.  You can download Orb Caster here (~80Mbs).

Step 2: Install Orb Caster on your PC once the download completes

Step 3:  When prompted during installation to close all running programs, select no.  You might want to watch videos while someone is using the PC.

Step 4:  During installation it will ask you where your media files are.  In most cases select both options.  On the next screen you can select any custom folders you use like an external drive for your movies.

For those about to ask, you can find your iTunes folder by looking here to make sure it is added in the folder list.

Step 5:  When asked, select No I am not installing any Orb devices (these are hardware items)

Step 6:  On the next screen, you are setting up Orb for mobile use.

Step 7:  New users will want to setup a new account, existing users can use their existing one.  When setting up an account, make sure to write down your username (email) and password.

Step 8: When asked, select Other smart phone or computer.  It will explain how you can access Orb from any device, and press OK to finish the first part of the setup.

Configuring your PlayBook

Step 1:  Download Connect to TVersity onto your PlayBook

Alternatively you can use the stock browser to connect using URL http://mycast.orb.com.

Step 2:  Launch the Connect to TVersity app, it should detect that you have not configured the software.  Swipe down from the top of your bezel to launch the configuration screen.

Step 3:  In the drop down for an unused server entry, select Orb – and press Connect.

Setting up Orb

Step 1:  Log into Orb

Step 2:  In the bottom middle select Settings

Step 3:  Change the Streaming Format to Flash, press Save and Exit and make sure the app is working for you!

~ed

Last Updated: Feb 21, 2012

Hi Everyone,

Disclaimer:  I am not responsible for making these apps, so please give credit where it is due in the individual threads.

I thought I would provide a new update for everyone one on:

MUST have applications you need to sideload today.  Don’t know how to Sideload?  Check here.  For you Mac users, you may need to create a VirtualBox with Windows or some other emulation trick.

DGEN, Download 1.0.1.0, Forum Link * NEW

Allows you to play Genesis ROMS’s

GBColor, Download 1.0.1.0, Forum Link * NEW

Allows you to play Genesis ROMS’s

PCSX-ReARMed, Download 1.0.1.4, Forum Link

Note:  Install app.  Run once to create folders and exit.  Save this bios file to PB\media\misc\pcsx-rearmed-pb\bios.  Save your ISO’s to PB\media\misc\pcsx-rearmed-pb\iso.

MeltChip/CHIP8, Download 1.0.2.16, Forum Link

Note: Find the actual files here on the github.  Not sure, but the rom might need to be compiled at buildtime in the NDK.

ZX Spectrum 48,128 emulator, Download 1.0.0.2, Forum Link

Note: “The top left of the screen opens up a menu and file selector option. From the menu selector you can navigate around your filesystem and load .sna .tzx .zip speccy games.  For now you’ll have to also select beeper, tape or AY for audio depending on the mode of the emulator so it’s a couple of steps to get a game loaded.”  Roms here.  Torrent here.

Unzip the roms anywhere.  For example, lets say misc/roms/zx.  To find this, browse to accounts/1000/shared/misc/roms/zx.

NES Emulator FCEUXpb, Download REVAMPED 1.0.1.2 Forum Link

Note:  Store your ROMs in misc/roms/nes (file extension and folder need to be lower case)

GBA Emulator VBAMpb, Download 1.0.1.3 Forum Link UPDATED

Note:  Store your ROMs in misc/roms/gba (file extension and folder need to be lower case)

SNES Emulator snes9x, Download 1.0.1.1 Forum Link UPDATED

Note:  Store your ROMs in misc/snes9x-pb/rom (file extension and folder need to be lower case)

DosBox, Download 1.0.0.16 Forum Link

Note:  You can edit the DosBox config file here: misc/dosbox/dosbox.cfg to set your autorun, mount, and launch settings.

Desktop Browser, Download 1.0.5.206 Forum Link

Note:  Became Secure Browser and available for purchase here.

Google Desktop, Download 1.0.0.0 Forum Link

Note:  Discontinued and not going to appworld.  I highly recommend this application instead.

Quake 3, Download 1.3.3.1 Forum Link

Note:  Maps in:  /misc/quake3/baseq3, OS2 Only

ScummVM for PlayBook, Download 1.4.1.34 Forum Link

Note:  Games stored in:  /misc

HuGo for PlayBook, Download 1.0.0.1 Forum Link UPDATED

Note:  Games stored in:  ???

Atari800 for PlayBook, Download 1.0.0.1 Forum Link UPDATED

Note:  Update \misc\atari800\atari800.cfg to reference the BIOS ‘rom’ files:

Contributions:

Amazon.com Webworks Launcher, SCrid2000, Download, Archive Link

eBay Webworks Launcher, SCrid2000, Download, Archive Link

eScreen Unlocker (for BB eScreen), SCrid2000, Download, Archive Link

BB Protect Launcher (RIM Icon version), SCrid2000, Download, Archive Link

Please visit urls to make sure your files are up-to-date and how to use them.  Each of these requires specific files uploaded to specific folders.  Keep everything lower case.

Cloned CrackBerry thread (in case you want to follow the comments):  http://forums.crackberry.com/showthread.php?p=7082378#post7082378

~Ed.

Above shows my roadmap (really just a copy of my calendar really).  But it should give you guys an idea of what I’m aiming for and when.  There is a lot of my day-to-day life not planned up above (i.e. seminars and helping other developers) but it should give everyone an idea of what I’m hoping to achieve this month.

Should… be a busy month

Ed

A while ago, I mentioned I started a Crackberry thread to make some apps that the community requested! Well, the first of 7 is on its way to AppWorld

My Hard Boiled Egg

Thank you for previewing this application.

History:
——–
A while ago I submitted a competition on the www.crackberry.com user forums for people to submit ideas!  And in exchange, I would send them a PayPal reward, create their applications, and send them a share of any profits made from it.  This application was suggested by Darlaten and was drafted up for the BlackBerry PlayBook by me as one of the 7 winning applications.

What do I need it for?
———————-
Eggs can be tough to cook right.  They are always undercooked or overcooked, and can be difficult to work with.  My significant other is a vegetarian and I know she relies heavily on cooked eggs for her protien.  So, I drafed up a simple application to make this experience as simple as possible.  This application can help you consistently create great quality eggs with minimal effort.  You just tell it what type of eggs you have, how hard you want the yolk, and off you go!

How do I use it?
—————-
To make customizations to the application:  Swipe down!
To make perfect eggs:  Put on a pot of water and get it boiling rapidly.  Once boiling, drop your eggs in the water and take it off of the hot burner or turn the heat down until it is no longer at a rapid boil.  Set the timer, and go do something fun!  When the timer goes off, its time to move your eggs into an icebath or cold water.

Version History
1.0.0.205
—————–
- Supports
* Medium/Large/ExLarge Eggs
- Set for
* Soft/Medium/Hard Yolk
- Pick your Egg Temp
* Cold/Room Temp/Warm
- Remembers all of your settings
- Offset the timer for different climates
- 2 Alarm SFX
- 6 Backgrounds
- 2 Digital Clock fonts (hand made)
- 14 Tips for making great eggs
- Override System Volume
- Never goes to sleep
- Use your Songs as the Alarm
- The grand-daddy of all egg timers.

FAQ:
—————–
How much work went into this?  Really?
- More than you might think!  If I want to charge for an egg timer application, it better be a good one!  This application uses 6 ActionScript mobile files across 1996 lines of code and took around 30 hours of coding and testing.

How do I access the options?
- Swipe down and play around

What OS’s does it work on?
- Tested on OS 1.0.8 and 2.0 Beta

What if I have a suggestion/bug?
- Contact me at:  support@filearchivehaven.com

Expect this release to start trickling out in AppWorld soon!
Version History
1.0.9.53 Features:
—————–
* Text Reflow added (Thanks HaTaX!)
* Stopping between tabs wasnt fixed, now it is
* More options
* Added logging options on Advanced tab
* Misc bug-fixes (smaller)

1.0.8.456 Features:
—————–
Several minor fixes.

1.0.8.455 Features:
—————–
* Reworked the failure engine
* Support for opening Local Files (general tab)
* Another new theme (Minecraft)
* New options pages (fancy)
* Many bug fixes (~14)
* Notes Locker renamed Password Locker

1.0.8.170 Features:
—————–
* No stopping betwen tabs
* Another theme (Mario)
* Minor JS Visual Toggle bug

1.0.8.160 Features:
—————–
* Button sizes increased 12.5%
* Start/Stop Button Consolidated
* Added:  Clear Cache / Cookies / Local Storage
* Added:  Notes Locker (for Passwords)
Note: It is on the Favorites Screen
* Several small bug fixes
* Stops PlayBook from Entering Sleep
Note: Not currently toggleable
* 2 New Themes
- Large Text – for people who need it
- Space Theme
* Behind the scenes: Theme support expanded to buttons, fonts and font colours.  Not used yet but will be.

1.0.7.311 Features:
—————–
* Minor bug fix: Portrait thumbnails outline was still in landscape

1.0.7.310 Features:
—————–
* Multitab support
-  Limited to 9 tabs
-  Indicator for Current Tab
-  Blank tab defaults to homepage
-  * Warning, Opening too many new tabs too fast can potentially crash the browser
* Theme Support added
-  Green
-  Blue
-  Diamond
-  Dragon
-  Want to create a theme?  Grab the package from FileArchiveHaven and send them to me in an email
* Pop-Up’s enabled now
* Better Web Inspector information
* Status Bar size increased a bit
* Favorites can have edit toggle
* Added stop button
* About 20 odd bug-fixes

1.0.6.750 Features:
—————–
* More Configurable Options
-  Enable/Disable JavaScript
-  Enable/Disable Cookies
-  Enable/Disable PopUps
* Note: Pop-ups Wont Work until Tabs are Added*
-  Enable/Disable Web Inspector
-  Enable/Disable Pattern Matching
+ Fixed some small bugs
* Smaller Status Bar

1.0.6.650 Features:
—————–
* User Agent Modes:
-  FireFox 5
-  IE 7
-  Chrome 15
-  Safari 5
-  BB9800
-  Android 2.3
-  iPad2 5.0.2
-  Playbook OS1
-  Netscape 9.1
-  Opera 12
-  Konqueror 4.5
* Set default font size
* Set default URL
* Password Protect your Favorites
-  Can be turned off
* Launches faster than Native Browser
* Privacy Mode
* Works through Tether & Bridge
* Validates URLs
* You can ‘google’ from the URL bar
* Strong error trapping
* Prevents access to History

Oh yeah

I’ve submitted another release for Secure Browser for the PlayBook (1.0.8 SP2).  That means I have 3 versions waiting for test in RIM.  You can view the download (when it is approved) at this link.  I have included the release notes for all three sitting in the test house below to see what you will get when the updates come through.

Secure Browser

Thank you for previewing this browser.

What is it:
———–
Secure Browser is a simplified web-browser that protects your information as the ultimate privacy browser.  This browser does not allow access to browser history, it has privacy modes, and password protects your favorites!  It is the perfect browser for protecting your information and allowing you to change your browser type.  This browser is based on my free Desktop Browser.

** This browser is not intended to replace the stock PlayBook browser, but accompanies it by providing a secure alternative for protecting your information. **

How does the Authentication Work?
———–
Your password is a separate encrypted password from your normal PlayBook password.  You need to authenticate once everytime the browser is launched.  And authentication will remain for the remainder of the user session.  You will not need to re-authenticate until you close and re-open the browser.

Features
—————–
* Multi-tabs (max of 9)

Version History
1.0.8.455 Features:
—————–
* Reworked the failure engine
* Support for opening Local Files (general tab)
* Another new theme (Minecraft)
* New options pages (fancy)
* Many bug fixes (~14)
* Notes Locker renamed Password Locker

1.0.8.170 Features:
—————–
* No stopping betwen tabs
* Another theme (Mario)
* Minor JS Visual Toggle bug

1.0.8.160 Features:
—————–
* Button sizes increased 12.5%
* Start/Stop Button Consolidated
* Added:  Clear Cache / Cookies / Local Storage
* Added:  Notes Locker (for Passwords)
Note: It is on the Favorites Screen
* Several small bug fixes
* Stops PlayBook from Entering Sleep
Note: Not currently toggleable
* 2 New Themes
- Large Text – for people who need it
- Space Theme
* Behind the scenes: Theme support expanded to buttons, fonts and font colours.  Not used yet but will be.

1.0.7.311 Features:
—————–
* Minor bug fix: Portrait thumbnails outline was still in landscape

1.0.7.310 Features:
—————–
* Multitab support
-  Support for 9 tabs (max)
-  Indicator for Current Tab
-  Blank tab defaults to homepage
-  * Warning, Opening too many new tabs too fast can potentially crash the browser
* Theme Support added
-  Green, Blue, Diamond, Dragon themes
* Pop-Up’s enabled now
* Better Web Inspector information
* Status Bar size increased a bit
* Favorites can have edit toggle
* Added stop button
* About 20 odd bug-fixes

1.0.6.750 Features:
—————–
* More Configurable Options
-  Enable/Disable JavaScript
-  Enable/Disable Cookies
-  Enable/Disable PopUps
* Note: Pop-ups Wont Work until Tabs are Added*
-  Enable/Disable Web Inspector
-  Enable/Disable Pattern Matching
+ Fixed some small bugs
* Smaller Status Bar

1.0.6.650 Features:
—————–
* User Agent Modes:
-  FireFox 5
-  IE 7
-  Chrome 15
-  Safari 5
-  BB9800
-  Android 2.3
-  iPad2 5.0.2
-  Playbook OS1
-  Netscape 9.1
-  Opera 12
-  Konqueror 4.5
* Set default font size
* Set default URL
* Password Protect your Favorites
-  Can be turned off
* Launches faster than Native Browser
* Privacy Mode
* Works through Tether & Bridge
* Validates URLs
* You can ‘google’ from the URL bar
* Strong error trapping
* Prevents access to History

How To Request Features:
—————–
Request any features you want in the Reviews, or you can contact me at kermed@gmail.com for help/feature requests.

FAQ:
—————–
What languages did you test on?
- Only English

What OS’s did you test on?
- OS1 and OS2 Compatible

I found a bug!  Where do I report it?
- kermed@gmail.com

My browser is acting strange, what can I do?
- You can try resetting your settings

What is lost when I reset?
- You lose:  Password, Favorites, Settings

Why is Reset not password protected?
- I needed a self-recovery method for users in case they lose their passwords

Will I need to pay for upgrades?
- Never

Does Netflix / Hulu work?
- No, you need something like PlayOn and a PlayOn subscription to use those on the PlayBook right now.

Cheers,

Ed.

Howdy folks,

I’m very proud to announce a new update submitted today for Secure Browser!

Release 1.0.7 adds the following new features:

1.0.7.311 Features:
—————–
* Minor bug fix: Portrait thumbnails outline was still in landscape

1.0.7.310 Features:
—————–
* Multitab support
-  Limited to 9 tabs
-  Indicator for Current Tab
-  Blank tab defaults to homepage
-  * Warning, Opening too many new tabs too fast can potentially crash the browser
* Theme Support added
-  Green
-  Blue
-  Diamond
-  Dragon
-  Want to create a theme?  Grab the package from FileArchiveHaven and send them to me in an email
* Pop-Up’s enabled now
* Better Web Inspector information
* Status Bar size increased a bit
* Favorites can have edit toggle
* Added stop button
* About 20 odd bug-fixes

Want to add your own themes?  Customize this package, send it to me, and I will add it in the next release!  (pending content approval).

http://www.filearchivehaven.com/downloads/beta/theme/green_theme_v1.zip

If you prefer you can reply to this thread with a link to your theme.  Thank you for your support   I will keep updating this browser.

~ls

Here I will post up any useful tips I’ve found for these two apps as I progress through.

Where can I get the server for free?

Download 1.9.7 Free Server here for PlayBook Application Users

Download 1.9.6 Free Server here for PlayBook Application Users

Download Older Free Servers here for PlayBook Application Users

What is this app made for?

Mostly, this app is used for convenient dedicated access to TVersity so you can stream videos from your PC to your PlayBook with minimal effort.  Really thats the number one purpose behind this application.

Can I do this all for free?

Yes.  This application is optional.  You can use the flash media folder to access the TVersity folder over your browser.  Or you can use m.playon.tv to access your PlayOn account.  Purchasing this application is optional.

What Servers Work?

Tested and confirmed working:

PlayOn through mobile port

TVersity

TWonky

Orb

Tested and confirmed not-working:

AIR Server

PS3 Media Server

Post here and recommend more!

What about DLNA?

Currently, DLNA is not supported.  It requires more than a server front end for management.  I’ve helped a few developers in working on DLNA servers with uPNP and UDP port discovery.  However it is in its infancy.  There is a rumour DLNA will be available in OS2 (will be interesting to see that happen).

How do I get a refund?

You can contact appworldbilling@rim.com with a copy of your order number to obtain a refund.

Where does the money go?

1)  I often get asked where the money goes for this application.  And I have a lengthy post explaining most of it here.  However, in truth, a lot of the money used on this project gets recycled.

In the last two months I have given out 100$ in prizes for app submissions from other developers.

I have donated an additional 100$ in the development of emulator projects.

I have provided PlayBooks to some junior developers to bring apps to the PlayBook.

I have used the money to fund my other apps for free on the PlayBook.

The money does go to my servers, systems, software licenses and test software.

With that all said, I know the price is high for some people.  If you wish for a refund, please contact me or send your order information to appworldbilling@rim.com with a request for a refund.

TVersity > How to control video playback

By default the application will hide the video playback buttons.  Just touch near the bottom of the video to access the controls.

TVersity > Enabling subtitles

To enable subtitles, use the FFDShow application to customize your audio settings.

TVersity > Videos have no sound

1)  Often caused by the FFDShow on your system.  Update to the latest FFDShow at this url: http://sourceforge.net/projects/ffdshow/

 2)  You must have an audio driver installed.  If you are using a server, it needs to have an audio card in order for the FFDShow to pick up on it.

PlayOn > Using PlayOn over a WAN

You should be able to use PlayOn over WAN in the latest relase by first accessing PlayOn on your PlayBook while on the same network as your PC.  And then using the application to access PlayOn outside of your network.  This setting will be “forgotten” when you delete the application.

PlayOn > Netflix says no videos are found when you pick a category

The PlayOn team has a major issue with the current release for some Canadian subscribers.  You need to manually update your PlayOn service to fix this.  And if you have any hiccups at all, I recommend contacting them directly and then letting me know about it so I can help to expidite a solution for you.  Get the patched server here:  http://www.playon.tv/support/update

PlayOn > SilverLight needs to be re-installed

It looks like you updated to Silverlight v5. Netflix has issues with Silverlight v5, unfortunately. They still use version 4. Please uninstall Microsoft Silverlight and reboot the PC. Once the PC is started again, don’t install Silverlight. Just open Internet Explorer (*not* any other browser, like Firefox or Chrome) and browse to this URL:

*JUST OPEN NETFLIX GO TO YOUR INSTANT QUEUE AND HIT PLAY ON ANY MOVIE*

Let Netflix install the Silverlight plugin it wants to use. Once that video can be played, try playing it through PlayOn.

Do not update the Silverlight plugin.

TWonky > How do I start a movie?

You have to double-press a video file to launch a movie. Because its in a flash element, it may also need to to double click more than once (once to activate the flash element, once to launch it).  It is for this reason I’m recommending against TWonky but technically, it works.

- Ed.

Secure Browser Released!

A new announcement to be made.  My Secure Browser (formerly Desktop Browser) has been approved for release.

Download the application here:  https://appworld.blackberry.com/webstore/content/76083?lang=en 

Follow the original thread here:  http://forums.crackberry.com/playbook-apps-games-f243/here-2-apps-rim-doesnt-want-you-have-663236/

Information below from the AppWorld:

Secure Browser

Thank you for previewing this browser.

What is it:
-----------
Secure Browser is a simplified web-browser that protects your information as the ultimate privacy browser.  This browser does not allow access to browser history, it has privacy modes, and password protects your favorites!  It is the perfect browser for protecting your information and allowing you to change your browser type. 

This browser is not intended to replace the stock BlackBerry® PlayBook™ browser, but accompanies it by providing a secure alternative for protecting your information.

Why you need it:
-----------
Many websites restrict your BlackBerry® PlayBook™ by constantly pushing you to mobile websites.  Many office applications and websites require specific browsers.  And in many cases the QNX browser is able to handling these.  This browser allows you to change your user-agent to bypass mobile websites and limited URLs.  In addition, this browser allows you to password protect your favorites. 

This is important for restricting access to your work URL's and information.

How does the Authentication Work?
-----------
Your password is a separate encrypted password from your normal BlackBerry® PlayBook™ password.  You need to authenticate once everytime the browser is launched.  And authentication will remain for the remainder of the user session.  You will not need to re-authenticate until you close and re-open the browser.

Version
-----------
1.0.6.650

Features:
-----------------
* User Agent Modes:
-  FireFox 5
-  IE 7
-  Chrome 15
-  Safari 5
-  BB9800
-  Android 2.3
-  iPad2 5.0.2
-  BlackBerry® PlayBook™ OS1
-  Netscape 9.1
-  Opera 12
-  Konqueror 4.5
* Set default font size
* Set default URL
* Password Protect your Favorites
-  Can be turned off
* Privacy Mode
* Works through Tether & Bridge
* Validates URLs
* You can 'google' from the URL bar
* Strong error trapping
* Prevents access to History

How To Request Features:
-----------------
Request any features you want in the Reviews, or you can contact me at kermed@gmail.com for help/feature requests.

FAQ:
-----------------
What languages did you test on?
- Only English

What OS's did you test on?
- OS1 and OS2 Compatible

I found a bug!  Where do I report it?
- kermed@gmail.com

My browser is acting strange, what can I do?
- You can try resetting your settings

What is lost when I reset?
- You lose:  Password, Favorites, Settings

Why is Reset not password protected?
- I needed a self-recovery method for users in case they lose their passwords

Will I need to pay for upgrades?
- Never

Do you support multiple tabs?
- No, this appears beyond the scope of AIR

 Feature requests, questions, etc.  Are all very much welcomed!  I hope you enjoy this browser as much as I do working on it.

~Ed.

App Suggestions Decided!

Some of you Crackberry junkies like myself, may have followed on a fun little post.  You see, I have some free time and I had a fun idea.  To ask the community what apps they want and to put some time into building them.

Link to post:  http://forums.crackberry.com/showthread.php?p=6995776#post6995776

So after a complicated week, all of the submitted apps were compiled into a file:  See on Google Docs.

The idea is simple, to turn the users into designers and build some revolutionary apps I might not think of otherwise!  And to split the money with them too   So, here are the results!

First Place Winner

$50 – Name:  vgwillm  Project:  Medical journal for people to detail anything unusual for later review.

$15 – Name: joe.blow2  Project:  Panoramic Camera

$5 – Name: RoboticGolem  Project:  Confidential

I will also be working on 4 other small related applications.  The goal is to finish it within 1 month!  Congrats to the winners, and I will be coming back to this list in the future.  Hopefully other developers will pitch-in and we can turn this bucket/wish list into reality.

Thanks for contributing to the project!  And hopefully some cool apps will come from this

~ed

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/pub?hl=en_US&hl=en_US&key=0AmQeeSQmOd1ddG5kaVJnajNLUG9Fb1N0ZUl5bnhrR0E&output=html

Connect to TVersity – Where does the money go

I often get asked why this application is here, what does it do, and why use it.

I try to be as straightforward as I can on the application description. See, I rely on media servers that have a flash port for the application and I link to that flash engine. This is to keep the cost of the client low with maximum reliability to the media server. So, as a user, you often see more or less what you would in a normal webbrowser.  The result is a lot of people asking: what is the money really for?  And rightfully so!

The price of the application gets split into paying for the application development and into the development of new (free) applications.

I’ve sunk about 36 hours into the app itself.  And that is with the video engine just using the native web engine whenever possible.  4 more hours have gone into tutorials most with photographs and detailed explanations.  And 20 hours have gone into testing and researching multiple servers and finding the best browser provisioning for them.  Including testing PlayBook Tablet OS changes.

The guts of the application is really what is different to a normal web browser. Most of the development time went into bandwidth reductions on the browser, memory reductions to the PlayBook, native Full screen video support, error trapping and network detection improvements. The feature list is 52 items long albiet many small features.

But the best use so far is the technical support for the client, server, network and domain name customizations people get. I have helped many many people setup this software on their systems and I want to keep helping for the remainder of the product.

So, for those who feel the $1.99 cost is too high – I am sorry and I am always happy to help set you up with a refund. I will likely make this app free if/when I do break even on the project.  As of today I have recouped about the cost of 6 hours into the project at the price point.

I am looking at our own native server in the future, but this will add ~300 development hours. Bringing the price to 19.99 per download over a 6 month period to recoup the development time.  Which I think is of questionable value when we consider that fundamentally it would do the same thing as the flash engine today. Users can also have a good experience with TVersity, PlayOn, etc using a standard web browser without this application and I never want someone to feel mislead about this application.

But for those who support me with this en-devour, thank you. And keep suggesting servers for me to add. I’m working on Orb, PlayOn over the network, TWonky and PS3MediaServer next.

Thanks all.  I just wanted to let you know where your money goes as it is continually being reinvested into the application.

Cheers. -ed

Sideloading on PlayBook – Need some fun apps?

Lets link up some of the fun stuff going on these days with the PlayBook.

First up, you will need to learn how to Side Load Applications on the PlayBook. 

Applications of interest:

FCEUXpb – Nintendo Emulator for the PlayBook.  Follow the thread here.   Download 1.0.0.8 here.

DosBox – You can even use this for the zsnes emulator.  Its just slow.  Follow the thread here.  Download 1.0.0.16 here.

Desktop Browser – Another browser alternative that has never been approved in AppWorld.  Follow the thread here.  Download 1.0.5.206 here.

I’m sure plenty more to come.  But if you want to play a bunch of PlayBook compatible flash games, look here.  OR if you want even more information on sideloading and game installations, look here.

Ed

You can find the PlayOn user manual here: http://www.playon.tv/downloads/playon/PlayOnUserGuide.pdf

Note:  You will need a valid PlayOn account to use this.  This will allow you to watch Hulu and Netflix on your PlayBook.  In addition, I have occluded many of the photos and detailed instructions as they can be found on the PlayOn website.

Configuring your Windows PC

1 – Download and install PlayOn on your Windows PC from www.playon.tv.

Note that when selecting any online video, it may take up to 10 seconds or longer before video starts showing on your PlayBook.  You need to be patient while Netflix videos (etc) are loading and no indicator occurs indicating it is loading in the background.

2 – Launch PlayOn from the Start Menu. Open PlayOn settings by double-clicking on the PlayOn icon in your task tray.

3 – Next, in order to enable the use of PlayOn with your Android phone or device, click on the “Mobile Access” tab and check “Enable Mobile Access”.

4 – Some PlayOn channels such as Netflix, Pandora, Hulu and more may require your credentials in order to view that content. To enter your credentials, select the “Channels” tab and add your information there.

5 – I recommend installing any other plugins you want.  Be aware you will need to restart the PlayOn server in order to do this.

6 – I like to configure the PlayOn server to connect to port 9898 instead of using the default.  This works well with my TVersity setup running on 9999.

7 – If you want to access your PlayOn from outside your home, you may want to configure your Router(s) to forward your port (in this case 9999) to your appropriate PC.  You can also use a Dynamic DNS such as No-IP.com to use a FQDM (fully qualified domain name).  So, you know, you no longer need to remember your home IP address.

Note:  When configuring your Routers, follow the ‘chain’.  So, router #1 (at the internet cable) should forward the port to router #2, and router #2 should forward the port to router #3 (etc) through all the routers.  The last router (or if it is your only router) should then forward the port to the appropriate PC.  You can use the build in test options in PlayOn to check this as you go.

8 – In the general settings tab, stop and restart the PlayOn server when you have finished configuring the device.

Configure Connect to TVersity

1 – Now, go into the Connect to TVersity application, swipe down, and set one of your servers to PlayOn.  It will automatically try to connect assuming you are on the same network as the device.

- Ed.

Below are some instructions for users getting started with TVersity while trying to configure Connect to TVersity for the first time using a dynamic ip address and domain name.  This will allow you to configure TVersity to work over the internet from anywhere (even your PC at work).

Disclaimer:  This requires more advanced knowledge and might be too difficult for some users.

User level:  Medium to Hard

Limitations:  Must have access to router.  Uses public internet (slower/less reliable).  May have internet fees.

Benefits:  Use from anywhere.  Works over Bridge and Tether.  You will have a Domain Name (free).  You can use the same type of customizations to access VNC/Minecraft Servers/Etc.

Setting Up TVersity

Step 1: Download TVersity Server and install it on your PC.  This acts as the communication ‘hub’.

Download 1.9.7 Free Server here for PlayBook Application Users

OR, Download 1.9.6 Free Server here for PlayBook Application Users

OR, Download Older Free Servers here for PlayBook Application Users

Step 2: Install TVersity onto your PC

Step 3:  Launch TVersity Media Server (shown above)

Step 4:  Press Settings – you usually want to configure your Server for the first time.

Step 5:  Change this port if you want to.  If you change it, you need to restart the TVersity Service.  Either way, write this port down.  This is the port you will use in TVersity.  I usually use 9999 because its easier to remember.

Note:  While here, scroll down to HTTP Proxy and make sure it is checked.

Step 6:  Make sure you enable outside network requests (so you can connect from work).  For security reasons you absolutely should set a username and password.

Step 7:  Optional:  Access Media Library and set how often you want the library to update.  This makes it so that the TVersity server updates its list of movies every day, so you don’t have to.  Usually I set this to 4 hours.  Now for the fun part.

Step 8:  Now we can go to the Library tab and start adding movie folders.  You only need to add the root folder, it will automatically add any subfolders.  I recommend adding your local movie storage (wherever you store your big movie list), I recommend adding your music list, I recommend adding your local photos, and I recommend adding your downloads folder.  This makes sure you can access your Music, Movies and Photos from inside your PlayBook.

For those about to ask, you can find your iTunes folder by looking here.

Step 9:  Press Refresh Items to build your video/music/photos list.  This can take a while.

Step 10:  Find the local IP Address of your system (not your external IP address).  You can do this by using Start > Cmd > ipconfig /all, more information on this process here.  Write this number down, this is your local IP connection and is needed for the next step(s).

Note:  If you have an XBox 360, PlayStation 2, or Wii you can now access this media onto those devices as well.  However, you need to use a different method for the Wii.

Configuring your Router

Step 1:  Access the PC with the TVersity Server running on it.  Use Start > Run > CMD again to launch a command window, and use IPCONFIG to view the network connection details.  Look for the Gateway (usually 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1).  This is also usually written on your router.

Note:  If you can’t find this url you may need to consult the manufacturer of your router, your internet provider, or your best know-it-all friend google.  Each brand of router is slightly different.

Step 2:  Enter that IP / URL into the browser of the PC running TVersity.  You should be able to access the backend of your router.  Tip:  Some companies (like Telus) lock this information from you and you need to contact them for the username/password.  But generally you should find it written on the router itself.

Step 3:  Find the section that says Port Forwarding.  Usually it is under Advanced.  In my example above, you can see I already have my TVersity customized and a Minecraft server setup.

Step 4:  Add the following TCP ports that Port Forward to the IP/PC running TVersity from earlier.  [YourPort],2869,5000 TCP and 1900 UDP.  YourPort is the critical one here.  Make sure it is enabled and press OK.

Now, anytime a packet comes in on that port to your network, it should auto-forward to your TVersity PC to process.

Step 5:  Verifying.  Use this url and type in your TVersity port to make sure it is open.  If it isn’t, consider examining your network.  Chances are, your router is connected to a modem and that modem also needs to have these ports forwarded.

Verifying your TVersity Server

You can verify that your TVersity Server is working by opening up a browser on another PC outside your network (call a friend!) and launching a web-browser.  Next type in:  http://<your_domain>:<port>.  Where the domain and Port were found above.  You should successfully connect.

Optional:  Using a Domain Name with a Dynamic IP for Free

This can be quite handy. This way, if your IP changes (most do!) you don’t need to worry about it.  Moreover you can directly access your PC using a domain name and even setup your own servers.  This is called a Fully Qualified Domain Name and is what we will be using in this part.

Step 1:  Decide, do you want to use a Domain Name or an IP address?  If you are comfortable with an IP skip all of this and use your public IP (you need to view it outside of your PC from somewhere like here).

Assuming you are wanting a DNS, we will use DynDNS.co wow, looks like DynDNS is no longer free.  Lets go with ChangeIP.com.

Step 2:  Sign-up for your free Domain Name here.  Or go with the competitor here.

Step 3:  Authenticate the account, and download the Dynamic IP updater.  Run the software on your PC to automatically update your IP address.  For more information on this process, visit here. 

Step 4:  Verifying it works.  On your PC, type in:  Start > Run > CMD.  Type in TRACERT (your domain).  It should trace itself to the External IP of your network as found earlier.

Configuring your PlayBook

Now for the easy part!

Step 1:  Download Connect to TVersity onto your PlayBook

Alternatively you can use the stock browser to connect using URL http://<your_domain>:<port>/flashlib.  Example: http://mydomain.dyndns.com:41952/flashlib.  However you will make some trade-offs with the stock browser.  You will see some problems when trying to browse movies due to how the touch is handled by the stock browser, etc.  But, this is a viable free option for using TVersity.

Step 2:  Launch the Connect to TVersity app, it should detect that you have not configured the software.  Swipe down from the top of your bezel to launch the configuration screen.

Step 2:  Instead of connecting by IP address, enter your DynDNS Domain Name and Port you used in the first part OR use the external IP address to your PC and the Port.  Press Connect<ServerID>.  And the TVersity Connector will try to connect to your PlayBook externally to your network.

If you encounter connection issues beyond this point,  thorough examination of your networking configuration may be required.  It is recommended you contact me directly or leave messages on the forums for one-on-one help.

~ed

Below are some instructions for users first getting started with TVersity while trying to configure Connect to TVersity for the first time.

Disclaimer:  Connect to TVersity requires a PC and utilizes networking.  This may take some people out of their comfort level for the first time while configuring your systems to TVersity.  But the rewards are great.

User level:  Easy to Medium

Limitations:  Must be on same network.  Won’t work over Bridge.  Won’t work from Office/School. 

Benefits:  No Internet Usage (No Internet Fees from Providers), Faster, More reliable.

Setting Up TVersity

Step 1: Download TVersity Server and install it on your PC.  This acts as the communication ‘hub’.

Download 1.9.7 Free Server here for PlayBook Application Users

OR, Download 1.9.6 Free Server here for PlayBook Application Users

OR, Download Older Free Servers here for PlayBook Application Users

Step 2: Install TVersity onto your PC

Step 3:  Launch TVersity Media Server (shown above)

Step 4:  Press Settings – you usually want to configure your Server for the first time.

Step 5:  Change this port if you want to.  If you change it, you need to restart the TVersity Service.  Either way, write this port down.  This is the port you will use in TVersity.  I usually use 9999 because its easier to remember.

Note:  While here, scroll down to HTTP Proxy and make sure it is checked.

Step 6:  Optional:  Access Media Library and set how often you want the library to update.  This makes it so that the TVersity server updates its list of movies every day, so you don’t have to.  Usually I set this to 4 hours.  Now for the fun part.

Step 7:  Now we can go to the Library tab and start adding movie folders.  You only need to add the root folder, it will automatically add any subfolders.  I recommend adding your local movie storage (wherever you store your big movie list), I recommend adding your music list, I recommend adding your local photos, and I recommend adding your downloads folder.  This makes sure you can access your Music, Movies and Photos from inside your PlayBook.

For those about to ask, you can find your iTunes folder by looking here.

Step 8:  Press Refresh Items to build your video/music/photos list.  This can take a while.

Step 9:  Find the local IP Address of your system (not your external IP address).  You can do this by using Start > Cmd > ipconfig /all, more information on this process here.  Write this number down, this is your local IP connection and is needed for the next step(s).

Note:  If you have an XBox 360, PlayStation 2, or Wii you can now access this media onto those devices as well.  However, you need to use a different method for the Wii.

Verifying your TVersity Server

You can verify that your TVersity Server is working by opening up a browser on another PC in your network and launching a web-browser.  Next type in:  http://<ip>:<port>.  Where the IP and Port were found above.  You should successfully connect.

Configuring your PlayBook

Now for the easy part!

Step 1:  Download Connect to TVersity onto your PlayBook

Alternatively you can use the stock browser to connect using URL http://<ip>:<port>/flashlib.  Example: http://192.168.0.100:41952/flashlib.  However you will make some trade-offs with the stock browser.  You will see some problems when trying to browse movies due to how the touch is handled by the stock browser, etc.  But, this is a viable free option for using TVersity.

Step 2:  Launch the Connect to TVersity app, it should detect that you have not configured the software.  Swipe down from the top of your bezel to launch the configuration screen.

Step 2:  Set the IP address and Port you used in the first part.  Press Connect<ServerID>.  And the TVersity Connector will try to connect.

If you encounter connection issues beyond this point, we need to investigate the issue closer.  You want to make sure that the PlayBook and your TVersity PC are on the same server.  If they are on different servers, you may need to read the advanced section on how to to port forwarding on your router.  Additionally, with this basic connection method, you cannot use Bridge to watch videos.  But it will work over Wifi when your PC and PlayBook are on the same router.

~ed

After lots of hard work it looks like BBXTeam has decided to change their name. The website is no longer active at WWW.bbxteam.com (has been offline for a while).

The new URL will likely be bbxtreme however this is still being decided per a new URL.

Once something is confirmed I will update ya all.
Ed

BlackBerry PlayBook – Getting Started with Side-Loading Apps

I’ve been a terrible blogger lately.  I’ve let my blog slowly drift into disarray when I can do so much to try and help everyone.

So today, to celebrate my urge to do something useful, I wanted to post a detailed article on the BlackBerry PlayBook.  I’m not going to focus on things like why it is better or worse than another tablet.  Or what features I wish it had.  But I am going to tell you what you can do with it.  This blog post is designed for people relatively new to the BlackBerry PlayBook.

What is side-loading?

Ok, so you bought your PB.  Now you want some applications, and you want more than what is online.  As a user, you have some tough choices.  You are going to see references everywhere online about this so I’m going to try and sum this up quickly.  Side-loading is a fancy term for installing an application without using BlackBerry AppWorld.

Get started with sideloading by reading and following the instructions here.

Users can sign up for the BlackBerry Tablet OS 2.0 Developer Beta.  This is not for normal users and I absolutely insist you backup first.  Features break, a lot.  And big ones.  So if you use this, expect reliability issues with Bridge.  Why is this worth a risk?  You can side load APK files.  If you sign up for this beta, check for updates right away.  Generally you don’t receive a confirmation email.  Downgrading is tricker, you need to disable wifi and perform a security wipe of your PlayBook.  So, avoid trying to downgrade.  Think carefully before you sign up for this and read the is bottom of the post.

Finding Applications

Install community converted APK to BAR files (android files) from here (OS2 only).

Install Desktop Browser (a browser alternative from me) here.

Install Bridge OS2 Beta replacement (from me) here.

Install my Google + App here.

Note:  Some browsers like to download these .BAR files as .ZIP files.  When you download these check that the extension is correct.  In Windows, you may need to enable this on XP, Vista and 7.

If your file shows a .ZIP with lots of files like an IMSMANIFEST.XML file or a bunch of folders, you probably downloaded the bar as a zip.

Need More?

Signup on Crackberry.com and grab some of these helpful files from the community.

Want to run Windows 3.11 or other fun DOS games?  Grab DosBox!

1) Download DosBox or check the forum post. (Thanks A7omic and Meltbox360).

2) Extract this zip with Windows 3.11 to get started with to this folder on the PlayBook (\misc\dosbox) – creating the dosbox folder as you go.

Note:  You should have the dosbox-0.74.conf in the \misc\dosbox folder for this to work.  To use Windows 3.11, launch DosBox on your PB and type in “CD WIN311″ and press enter.  Then type in “SETUP” (no quotes in any of these) and press enter.  You should now have Windows 3.11 installing.

Put any other DOS games you want access to in \misc\dosbox.

You could also install some questionable applications like the leaked version of Angry Birds (unstable and not great).  You can also hot-link to my list of flash games here and get access to a ton of them!

Want to buy some apps?

I highly recommend the following downloads from the appstore:  imt vnc (fantastic vnc player), phone remote (its unique!), Do (great app for creating lists, bit buggy), SuperSimpleNotepad (good for notes at work), NewsPile (RSS, updates frequently), Files & Folders (unzip, copy/paste, launch, fantastic!), Book Reader (epub reader, so fanastic, constantly improving), and any EB Games game, any Gameloft game, Crystal Story (cute simple RPG), Gravitee Wars (addictive aim and shoot game), and GRave Defense (always a classic TD).

What do I need to know?

There are a couple of issues to know, and things to watch out for!  Backup frequently.  If you install the Android 1.0 for earlier tablet OS (stolen file from RIM) you will not be able to use OS2 APK’s without a security wipe of your device.  Also, you will no longer be able to backup your PlayBook.  Lesson learned here:  Be careful what you download

You need to reregister for each release of the beta release for OS2.

You need to security wipe your PB when you update to the latest OS2 releases or Android won’t work (Anytime the Android Run-time is updated).

The OS2 releases pretty much have nothing useful for users except for a folder sorting system & android support.

You can program in Adobe AIR or Native SDK (C++) on the PlayBook.  Need a hand getting started with AIR?  Start here with some of my source code .  You will need Flash Builder from Adobe and visit the BlackBerry website for more information.  The best part, students and others can register for free legitimate Adobe Flash Builder license keys.

~ Ed

Below is a list of flash games that I have found that work well on touch devices. They were made by other companies, with great minds so please bear in mind these were not made by me.  IF you find anymore, please add them to the comments and I will post them once I verify they work well.

To use these files:

1)  Click on the link, let it load.

2)  Double click on the flash file to launch it in full screen and just play!

See your game here and want it gone?  Just let me know and its done.

Tower Defence:

Onslaught

Age-of-War

Flash-Element-TD (not sure..)

Invasion-TD (like c n c)

Story

Johnny-Rocket-Fingers-2 (ok) NSFW, but funny

Monster-Basement

ESCAPE2

Get-Out-V2 (lil weird but cool)

Nightmares-of-Leia-Ray (wtf is this)

Movie Like

Ray-2

Arcade

Galves-Adventure

Puzzle

Sniper-Escape (cool)

Student-Park (weird but cool)

Gore

zombie-golf-riot (evil dead)

Sniper

turkeyshoot (bad ass)

snipe those bitches (great)

snipers

Balance

Balance-2 (ok)

Ball-Balance

Mass-Attack

Tilt-2