Reviews: Bento 3, Popcorn 4, Epson Stylus NX515
updated 10:35 am EST, Mon January 4, 2010
New Bento leaves some tweaks remaining
MacNN has reviewed three recent releases, beginning with Bento 3, FileMaker's personal-level database software. The program is described as easy to use, with upgraded features such as new views and encrypted fields. Some flaws still remain however, including problems with syncing back to Address Book, and changing font color or size in individual fields.
Roxio's Popcorn 4 handles tasks related to DVD copying and compression, as well as video conversion for different device formats, such as game consoles, Apple handhelds or various smartphones. Version 4 is said to introduce web capture, basic editing and extra conversion options. The software continues to lack deinterlacing however, and forces users to watch an entire web video before beginning the capture process.
The Stylus NX515 is a low-cost all-in-one printer by Epson. In addition to supporting scanning and copying, the printer can read directly from memory cards and USB storage. While the model is said to be quick to print and easy to network, ports may be difficult to see, and photo scanning is rated as inferior. Users must also be cautious about loading paper, as a mistake can result in maladjusted prints.
