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Hot Tech Deals – Rosewill Destroyer Gaming ATX Mid Tower Computer Case $39.99 Free Shipping & More!


class="align-right" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/deals.jpg" alt="" />Newegg has the Rosewill Destroyer Gaming ATX Midtower Computer Case for a low $39.99 Free Shipping

For more fresh hot deals, visit our href="http://www.makeuseof.com/pages/hot-tech-deals/">Hot Tech Deals page, which is constantly updated.

  1. href="http://www.techbargains.com/jumpa.cfm?clkSubId=ZZ0AT0A99271390A0&afsrc=1&id=488&arg=N82E16811147144&source=makeuseof">Rosewill Destroyer Gaming ATX Mid Tower Computer Case $39.99 Free Shipping after Coupon Code: EMCJKKF56
  2. href="http://www.techbargains.com/jumpa.cfm?clkSubId=ZZ0AT3A99271357A0&afsrc=1&id=523&arg=bvctbsf2&source=makeuseof">Dell Vostro 260 Intel Core i3-2100 3.1GHz Desktop w/ Adobe Acrobat X, Win7 Pro $469 Free Overnight Shipping
  3. href="http://www.techbargains.com/jumpa.cfm?clkSubId=ZZ0AT6A99271384A0&afsrc=1&id=6840&arg=http%3A%2F%2Fshop.lenovo.com%2FSEUILibrary%2Fcontroller%2Fe%2Fweb%2FLenovoPortal%2Fen_US%2Fbuilder.workflow%3AEnter%3Fmtm-item%3D%253A000000F3%253A00004C16%253AEUILibrary%252Fcontroller%252Fe%252Fweb%252FLenovoPortal%252Fen_US%252Fbuilder&source=makeuseof">Lenovo IdeaPad A1 1GHz 7in Tablet w/ Android 2.3 & Off-Line GPS $199.99 Free Shipping
  4. href="http://www.techbargains.com/jumpa.cfm?clkSubId=ZZ0AT10A99271387A0&afsrc=1&id=217&arg=320-2676&source=makeuseof">Dell U2412M 24in LED-Backlit eIPS LCD Monitor (1920×1200) $319 Free Shipping after Coupon Code: XD5W7S1JRP52C8 />
  5. href="http://www.techbargains.com/jumpa.cfm?clkSubId=ZZ0AT12A99271383A0&afsrc=1&id=488&arg=N82E16834230027&source=makeuseof">Asus G53SW-XN1 Intel Core i7-2630QM Quad 2GHz 15.6in 1080p Laptop GTX460M $799 Free Shipping />



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Hot Tech Deals – Rosewill Destroyer Gaming ATX Mid Tower Computer Case $39.99 Free Shipping & More!


class="align-right" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/deals.jpg" alt="" />Newegg has the Rosewill Destroyer Gaming ATX Midtower Computer Case for a low $39.99 Free Shipping

For more fresh hot deals, visit our href="http://www.makeuseof.com/pages/hot-tech-deals/">Hot Tech Deals page, which is constantly updated.

  1. href="http://www.techbargains.com/jumpa.cfm?clkSubId=ZZ0AT0A99271390A0&afsrc=1&id=488&arg=N82E16811147144&source=makeuseof">Rosewill Destroyer Gaming ATX Mid Tower Computer Case $39.99 Free Shipping after Coupon Code: EMCJKKF56
  2. href="http://www.techbargains.com/jumpa.cfm?clkSubId=ZZ0AT3A99271357A0&afsrc=1&id=523&arg=bvctbsf2&source=makeuseof">Dell Vostro 260 Intel Core i3-2100 3.1GHz Desktop w/ Adobe Acrobat X, Win7 Pro $469 Free Overnight Shipping
  3. href="http://www.techbargains.com/jumpa.cfm?clkSubId=ZZ0AT6A99271384A0&afsrc=1&id=6840&arg=http%3A%2F%2Fshop.lenovo.com%2FSEUILibrary%2Fcontroller%2Fe%2Fweb%2FLenovoPortal%2Fen_US%2Fbuilder.workflow%3AEnter%3Fmtm-item%3D%253A000000F3%253A00004C16%253AEUILibrary%252Fcontroller%252Fe%252Fweb%252FLenovoPortal%252Fen_US%252Fbuilder&source=makeuseof">Lenovo IdeaPad A1 1GHz 7in Tablet w/ Android 2.3 & Off-Line GPS $199.99 Free Shipping
  4. href="http://www.techbargains.com/jumpa.cfm?clkSubId=ZZ0AT10A99271387A0&afsrc=1&id=217&arg=320-2676&source=makeuseof">Dell U2412M 24in LED-Backlit eIPS LCD Monitor (1920×1200) $319 Free Shipping after Coupon Code: XD5W7S1JRP52C8 />
  5. href="http://www.techbargains.com/jumpa.cfm?clkSubId=ZZ0AT12A99271383A0&afsrc=1&id=488&arg=N82E16834230027&source=makeuseof">Asus G53SW-XN1 Intel Core i7-2630QM Quad 2GHz 15.6in 1080p Laptop GTX460M $799 Free Shipping />



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Hot Tech Deals – Rosewill Destroyer Gaming ATX Mid Tower Computer Case $39.99 Free Shipping & More!


class="align-right" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/deals.jpg" alt="" />Newegg has the Rosewill Destroyer Gaming ATX Midtower Computer Case for a low $39.99 Free Shipping

For more fresh hot deals, visit our href="http://www.makeuseof.com/pages/hot-tech-deals/">Hot Tech Deals page, which is constantly updated.

  1. href="http://www.techbargains.com/jumpa.cfm?clkSubId=ZZ0AT0A99271390A0&afsrc=1&id=488&arg=N82E16811147144&source=makeuseof">Rosewill Destroyer Gaming ATX Mid Tower Computer Case $39.99 Free Shipping after Coupon Code: EMCJKKF56
  2. href="http://www.techbargains.com/jumpa.cfm?clkSubId=ZZ0AT3A99271357A0&afsrc=1&id=523&arg=bvctbsf2&source=makeuseof">Dell Vostro 260 Intel Core i3-2100 3.1GHz Desktop w/ Adobe Acrobat X, Win7 Pro $469 Free Overnight Shipping
  3. href="http://www.techbargains.com/jumpa.cfm?clkSubId=ZZ0AT6A99271384A0&afsrc=1&id=6840&arg=http%3A%2F%2Fshop.lenovo.com%2FSEUILibrary%2Fcontroller%2Fe%2Fweb%2FLenovoPortal%2Fen_US%2Fbuilder.workflow%3AEnter%3Fmtm-item%3D%253A000000F3%253A00004C16%253AEUILibrary%252Fcontroller%252Fe%252Fweb%252FLenovoPortal%252Fen_US%252Fbuilder&source=makeuseof">Lenovo IdeaPad A1 1GHz 7in Tablet w/ Android 2.3 & Off-Line GPS $199.99 Free Shipping
  4. href="http://www.techbargains.com/jumpa.cfm?clkSubId=ZZ0AT10A99271387A0&afsrc=1&id=217&arg=320-2676&source=makeuseof">Dell U2412M 24in LED-Backlit eIPS LCD Monitor (1920×1200) $319 Free Shipping after Coupon Code: XD5W7S1JRP52C8 />
  5. href="http://www.techbargains.com/jumpa.cfm?clkSubId=ZZ0AT12A99271383A0&afsrc=1&id=488&arg=N82E16834230027&source=makeuseof">Asus G53SW-XN1 Intel Core i7-2630QM Quad 2GHz 15.6in 1080p Laptop GTX460M $799 Free Shipping />



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Anokimobi e-pouch iPhone 4 Case Product Review and Giveaway


class="align-right" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/epouchgiveaway.png" />Presently in the world that we live in, we have to consider the environment in just about every decision we make; shopping included. In one of our href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/6-websites-educated-ethical-safe-shopper/">recently published articles, we asked our readers if they shop for themselves or if they “shop for the environment” as well — do you think about recyclability and how the product was made when you make your purchase? Personally, I often think about the consequences of my purchase and how it affects the environment — but that’s just me.

About a half a year ago, we wrote about a company in the UK called href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/antibacterial-iphone-4-case-ecoskin-review-giveaway/">Anokimobi which specialises in making products out of organic material. Today, we’ll be looking at some additions to their product line. Plus, we’re giving away a couple of prizes so stick around.

Anokimobi released their e-pouch product line after we reviewed their antibacterial iPhone 4 case in December and I learnt that it was doing quite well and gaining popularity in Europe. The e-pouch line consists of 3 ranges and they are defined by the type of material used to construct the cases: the recycled plastic range, the organic cotton range, and the recycled leather/eco-leather range. All three ranges are interiorly lined with organic cotton, PET or fabrics made out of bamboo. In addition to the iPhone 4, these cases can accomodate a variety of products like MP3 players, cameras and other mobile phones.

Recycled plastic e-pouch range

href="http://e-pouch.co.uk/store/e-pouch/e-pouch-fusion">Fusion

It’s hard to believe that this pouch was made out of recycled PET. The outer construction is tough and durable yet it feels completely refined. The inner lining is made out of organic cotton and is incredibly soft. There’s a small pouch at the front to store earphones or cards and you’ve got a detachable wrist strap at the side. The top of the pouch seals itself shut with the help of a small strip of velcro. At the top, you’ll find a small loop where you can attach a lanyard to the case.

class="aligncenter" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/IMG_1627.jpg" />

class="aligncenter" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/IMG_1626.jpg" />

Although the case was made to fit most phones and not the iPhone specifically, it managed to accomodate my iPhone 3G quite well. The Fusion pouch is sleek, isn’t too bulky, has a super soft interior and seals itself shut at the top and most importantly, it’s made out of recycled materials.

href="http://www.e-pouch.co.uk/store/e-pouch/e-pouch-edge">Edge

The Edge e-pouch is also made out of recycled materials, plastic bottles to be exact but its overall construction and feel is very different from the Fusion pouch. Whereas the Fusion pouch has a soft and sleek feel to it, the Edge is bulkier and more protective. It has a velcro flap which lifts up to reveal a pull cord to help remove your iPhone from the slip case easily.

class="aligncenter" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/IMG_1623.jpg" />

class="aligncenter" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/IMG_1624.jpg" />

On the other side (not pictured), you’ll a more secure, zipped compartment for your necessities e.g. coins, earphones, credit cards, etc. Overall, the Edge is bulkier but it does have that added protection. Like the Fusion pouch, the Edge also has a loop which can be used to attach a lanyard at the top.

Organic cotton e-pouch range

href="http://www.e-pouch.co.uk/store/e-pouch/e-pouch-luna">Luna

The Luna pouch is almost the same as the Fusion but it’s made out of organic cotton, stuffed with recycled filler material. As a result, it feels softer and more flexible. It’s also slightly shorter than the Fusion, which I found a little odd because the velcro strips weren’t able to meet and seal the pouch shut.

class="aligncenter" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/IMG_1628.jpg" />

class="aligncenter" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/IMG_1629.jpg" />

I preferred the feel of the organic cotton, compared to the recycled PET exterior of the Fusion but unfortunately, not being able to seal the case shut was a slight disappointment. Like both pouches shown before, it has a wrist strap at the side and a small loop to attach it to a lanyard.

Eco-leather range

href="http://www.e-pouch.co.uk/store/e-pouch/eco-pu-slip">Eco imitation leather Slip

Most of us probably like leather a lot but realistically, purchasing a leather iPhone case just isn’t economical. Plus, why would you want to spend so much money on something as common as an iPhone cover? Anokimobi’s eco imitation leather slip is a great “greener” alternative. It’s made with water-based production methods so there aren’t any toxic chemicals involved in its creation. It uses recycled card stiffeners for added strength and rigidity and there’s a strip of organic cotton down the middle for some style. The interior is lined with organic cotton so, like the pouches above, it’s incredibly soft.

class="aligncenter" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/IMG_1619.jpg" />

class="aligncenter" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/IMG_1620.jpg" />

In order words, this eco imitation leather slip is an environmentally-friendly iPhone sleeve which looks great and even though it’s made out of recycled materials, it still manages to pull it off in style.

href="http://www.e-pouch.co.uk/store/e-pouch/eco-pu-velcro">Velcro Slip

The Velcro Slip is a product which is made out of a combination of recycled PET and eco imitation leather, filled with recycled material. Im in opinion, it’s probably design for the more business-minded user. Unlike the rest of the pouches featured above, the Velcro slip is completely lined with recycled PET on both the exterior and interior. In addition to that, there’s a cross-shaped section of eco leather on both the front and the rear. The pouch features a velcro flap which starts at the rear and swings over to the front, securing your phone in place — this actually helps to accomodate a variety of phone sizes.

class="aligncenter" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/IMG_1622.jpg" />

class="aligncenter" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/IMG_1621.jpg" />

Over at the rear, you’ll find a belt loop for those who prefer to wear their phones on their hips. On top of that, the Velcro Slip takes a page out of Anokimobi’s antibacterial iPhone cases and injected the same Biomaster antibacterial silver in the eco leather.

Overall, the pouches from Anokimobi reviewed here were pretty decent. The material used were recycled and organic. All of their packaging used to ship the pouches are recyclable. And so their effect to the environment is a positive one. If you’re thinking of getting a new pouch for your iPhone or iPod touch, think green.

We’ve got 5 href="http://www.e-pouch.co.uk/store/e-pouch/eco-pu-velcro">Velcro Slips to give away to MakeUseOf readers around the globe!

How do I win one?

It’s simple, just follow the instructions.

Step 1: Fill in the giveaway form

Please fill in the form with your real name and email address so that we can get in touch if you are chosen as a winner. href="https://muo.wufoo.com/forms/z7w2r9/" onclick="window.open(this.href, null, 'height=443, width=680, toolbar=0, location=0, status=1, scrollbars=1, resizable=1'); return false" title="Anokimobi e-pouch">Click here if you can’t view the form.

The giveaway code required to activate the form is available from href="http://facebook.com/makeuseof">our Facebook page.

Step 2: Share!

You’re almost done. Now, all that’s left to do is to share the post. There are 2 options to choose from or you can do both!

border="0" cellspacing="20">
width="240" align="middle" valign="top">

Like it on Facebook align="center"> src="http://www.facebook.com/plugins/like.php?href=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.makeuseof.com%2Ftag%2Fanokimobi-epouch-iphone-4-case-product-review-giveaway%2F&layout=box_count&show_faces=true&width=60&action=like&colorscheme=light&height=65" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="border:none; overflow:hidden; width:60px; height:65px;" allowTransparency="true">

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Or share it on Twitter

align="center"> href="http://twitter.com/share" class="twitter-share-button" data-text="I've just entered @makeuseof's giveaway to win a FREE iPhone case from Anokimobi! Come join!" data-count="vertical">Tweet

This giveaway begins now and ends Friday, June 17th at 2100hrs PDT. The winners will be selected at random and informed via email.

Spread the word to your friends and have fun!

MakeUseOf would like to thank href="http://iosafe.com/">Anokimobi for their generosity while participating in this giveaway. Interesting in sponsoring? We’d love to hear from you. Get in touch with us via href="mailto:jackson@makeuseof.com?subject=Giveaways">email. />
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Read comments: href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/anokimobi-epouch-iphone-4-case-product-review-giveaway/#disqus_thread">Loved it? Hated it? Join discussion here …

 

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    Otterbox Reflex Case for iPhone 4 and iPad 2 Giveaway Winners


    class="align-right" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/ipadreflex.jpg" />It has been an exciting past two weeks. We launched one iPad 2 giveaway after another and so far, it’s been great!

    Here are the winners of our second href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/makeuseof-giving-ipad-2-again/">16 GB iPad 2 and href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/otterbox-reflex-series-case-iphone-4-review-giveaway/">Otterbox Reflex Case for iPhone 4 giveaways.

    iPad 2 Giveaway Winner

      Brian Pearson

    Otterbox Reflex Case for iPhone 4 Giveaway Winner

      Kelly Gerber

    Congratulations! Emails have been deployed to both of you. Please reply us within 48 hours to claim your prizes. If you still haven’t received it please check your spam inbox for any emails from @makeuseof.com or contact href="mailto:jackson@makeuseof.com">Jackson. />
    />Follow href="http://twitter.com/MakeUseOf" target="_blank" >MakeUseOf on Twitter. Includes cool extras. />
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    OtterBox Reflex Series Case for iPhone 4 Review and Giveaway


    class="align-right" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/otterboxthumb.jpg" />Over the past few months, we’ve reviewed quite a few href="http://makeuseof.com/tags/iphone-cases">iPhone cases — some were href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/vaja-ivolution-top-iphone-4-case-review-giveaway/">fancy, others were href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/bioserie-iphone-4-bioplastic-case-review-giveaway/">biodegradable. We’ve even reviewed some href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/antibacterial-iphone-4-case-ecoskin-review-giveaway/">antibacterial iPhone cases. However, if we were to asked to pick the most dependable, rugged iPhone case, our choice would be Otterbox cases everytime. In the past, we’ve reviewed the href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/iphone-4-defender-commuter-cases-otterbox-mini-giveaway/">Otterbox Defender and Commuter cases, and we loved both of them simply because of the level of protection they provided.

    Today, we’ll be looking at their newest case for the iPhone 4 from the href="http://www.otterbox.com/iPhone-4-Reflex-Series-Case/APL7-I4XXX,default,pd.html?dwvar_APL7-I4XXX_color=20&start=1&cgid=reflex-series-cases">Reflex series. We’ve also got one to give away so stick around if you’d like to win it.

    When it comes to protection, Otterbox has always been considered the industry standard. However, most of their cases are slightly bulky and doesn’t really appeal to the everyday user. The Reflex series case, on the other hand, is by far their lightest iPhone 4 case (at just 26g) with the lowest profile and doesn’t look out of place at all. In fact, it looks like a regular hardshell case but what you can’t see is the amount of research and development that went into creating this case — it’s not your ordinary iPhone case in the slightest bit.

    class="aligncenter" style="border: 0pt none;" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/reflex-1.jpg" />

    The case (and the entire line of Reflex cases) gets its name from the design — interestingly, it borrowed the idea of the automobile “crumple zone” and integrated it into the case, resulting in a protective, yet flexible case that is shock-absorbent. As you can see, the case isn’t entirely plastic. It has a 1 cm plastic zone along the edges that extend into the corners. These reflex zones bend upon impact and spring back into position, thereby protecting the iPhone from any potential damage that may result from a fall.

    class="aligncenter" style="border: 0pt none;" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/reflex-4.jpg" />

    The Reflex series case is a two-piece assembly which separates at the middle and is joined together via a smart “clip” which on its own, does’t really seem to do anything but when an iPhone is slotted in, the two pieces clip together firmly until they’re taken apart again.

    class="aligncenter" style="border: 0pt none;" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/reflex-5.jpg" />

    Besides the reflex zone, the rest of the Reflex case is pretty standard: the dock connectors, silent switch, headphone jack and noise cancellation mic access are all unobstructed. The sleep and volume control buttons are both covered. As you can see from the image below, the case bevels over the iPhone’s screen, giving it that little extra bit of protection.

    class="aligncenter" style="border: 0pt none;" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/reflex-2.jpg" />

    As with all Otterbox products, the Reflex series iPhone 4 case comes with a screen protector, application card and micro-fibre cleaning cloth.

    class="aligncenter" style="border: 0pt none;" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/reflex-3.jpg" />

    Overall, the Reflex case is very different from the rest of the Otterbox product line — it’s slim and light, yet it still has that Otterbox protective factor. If I’m to be completely honest, there’s only one thing about the case that I dislike and that’s the fact that it doesn’t provide a soft, rubbery inner lining.

    The Otterbox Reflex Case for iPhone 4 retails at $44.95 and is available from their href="http://www.otterbox.com/iPhone-4-Reflex-Series-Case/APL7-I4XXX,default,pd.html?dwvar_APL7-I4XXX_color=20&start=1&cgid=reflex-series-cases">online store. We’re giving one away this week and here’s how to win it.

    How do I win it?

    It’s simple, just follow the instructions.

    Step 1: Fill in the giveaway form

    Please fill in the form with your real name and email address so that we can get in touch if you are chosen as a winner. href="https://muo.wufoo.com/forms/z7w3k3/" onclick="window.open(this.href, null, 'height=443, width=680, toolbar=0, location=0, status=1, scrollbars=1, resizable=1'); return false" title="Otterbox Reflex Case for iPhone 4">Click here if you can’t view the form.

    The giveaway code required to activate the form is available from href="http://muo.fm/fbgvcd">our Facebook page.

    Step 2: Share!

    You’re almost done. Now, all that’s left to do is to share the post. There are 2 options to choose from or you can do both!

    border="0" cellspacing="20">
    width="240" align="middle" valign="top">

    Like it on Facebook align="center"> src="http://www.facebook.com/plugins/like.php?href=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.makeuseof.com%2Ftag%2Fotterbox-reflex-series-case-iphone-4-review-giveaway%2F&layout=box_count&show_faces=true&width=60&action=like&colorscheme=light&height=65" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="border:none; overflow:hidden; width:60px; height:65px;" allowTransparency="true">

    width="240" align="middle" valign="top">

    Or share it on Twitter

    align="center"> href="http://twitter.com/share" class="twitter-share-button" data-text="I've just entered @makeuseof's giveaway to win a FREE Otterbox Reflex case for iPhone 4! Come join!" data-count="vertical">Tweet
    style="margin-bottom: 15px;padding:5px; border:1px solid #c6d7e1;background-color:#d8eaf2;"> Giveaway eligibility /> In accordance with href="http://www.facebook.com/promotions_guidelines.php">Facebook’s Promotional Guidelines 2.4.2 and 2.4.3: /> Individuals who are over the age of 18. If you are under 18, get your parents to participate on your behalf; /> Individuals who reside in Belgium, Norway, Sweden, India or any country embargoed by the United States are not permitted to enter.

    This giveaway begins now and ends Friday, April 22nd at 2100hrs PDT. The winner will be selected at random and informed via email. />
    />NEW: href="https://market.android.com/details?id=com.makeuseof&feature=search_result" target="_blank">Download MakeUseOf App for Android. FREE! />
    />

     

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    More articles about: href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tags/giveaway/" title="giveaway" rel="tag">giveaway, href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tags/iphone/" title="iphone" rel="tag">iphone, href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tags/iphone-cases/" title="iphone cases" rel="tag">iphone cases />



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    Speck CandyShell Case for iPod Touch 4G Giveaway Winner

    Posted on 06 February 2011. Tags: , , , , , ,


    style="border: 0px none;margin-left:20px;float:right;" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/speckintro.jpg" />Another great giveaway has come to an end. Today, we’ll be announcing the 5 MakeUseOf readers who were lucky enough to be selected (randomly, of course) to receive a Speck CandyShell Case for their 4G iPod Touch.

    An email has been sent to your inbox, please reply it within 48 hours in order to claim your prize.

    And the winners are…

    id="more-65007">

    1. Annie Laudick
    2. William Stuart
    3. Alex Guzman
    4. Andrew Kerr
    5. Cesar Garcia

    Congratulations! Stay tuned for more great giveaways. In the meantime, check out our href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/9-apps-price-1-bundlelytic-charity-bundle-giveaway/">bundlelytic charity bundle giveaway — we’re giving away 25 app bundles worth over $1200 in total!

    MakeUseOf would like to thank href="http://www.speckproducts.com/">Speck for their generosity while participating in this giveaway. Interesting in sponsoring? We’d love to hear from you. Get in touch with us via href="mailto:jackson@makeuseof.com?subject=Giveaways">email. />
    />Follow href="http://twitter.com/MakeUseOf" target="_blank" >MakeUseOf on Twitter. Includes cool extras. />
    />

     

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    5 Last Minute Christmas Gift Ideas In Case You Get Stuck

    Posted on 21 December 2010. Tags: , , , , , ,


    class="align-left" style="border: 0px none; margin-left: 20px; margin-top: 5px; float: right;" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/LastMinuteGift01.png" border="0" alt="christmas gift ideas" width="250" height="235" />This is the week of Christmas. Did you get the Christmas grocery shopping done? Is the house clean and ready to receive guests? Do you have all the gifts? Still need to wrap them up? Oops, is there something we forgot? Don’t stress!

    Remember that Christmas is not about consuming, it’s about love. You can express your love in many different ways. And since it’s all about love, the gifts don’t need to be fancy or expensive. Seriously. They should, however, show that you care. If you do, it will be easy to come up with a last minute gift idea.

    If you’re too stressed out to come up with a good gift idea, you have come to the right place. Let me share some suggestions and your creative juices will be flowing again in no time. Below are my five last minute Christmas gift ideas.

    id="more-61159">

    Gift Cards

    A gift card may not be the greatest way in the world to show your appreciation, but in a way it’s honest. You cannot read someone else’s mind, you may not live close enough to organize something special for them, and you may not even have the time to come see them personally. Rather than sending a standard gift that will clutter up their home and consume their precious space and time, you let them choose something that they need or will enjoy.

    style="text-align: center;"> class="aligncenter" style="border: 0px;" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/LastMinuteGift06.png" border="0" alt="christmas gift ideas" />

    If you know where they love to shop, you can give a specific gift card. However, if you are not sure what they really like, if you would like to give something that isn’t mainstream, or if you want to conceal the amount you are giving, you need to find a unique gift card store.

    One example is class="vt-p" title="Ribbon" href="https://www.ordermygift.com/view-album.aspx">Ribbon, which offers several gift card collections to choose from. The best is that the gift cards don’t have a $ value on them and neither do the gifts. Based on the gift card you pick, the receiver can choose gifts from a variety of items, without ever knowing how much you spent on the gift card.

    style="text-align: center;"> class="aligncenter" style="border: 0px;" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/LastMinuteGift02.png" border="0" alt="creative christmas gift ideas" />

    You can buy Ribbon gift cards from class="vt-p" title="Amway Ribbon Gift Collections" href="http://www.amway.com/Shop/Product/Category.aspx/Gift-Collections">Amway or from sellers that have made the effort to create something more unique, for example class="vt-p" title="Ribbon Gift Card Smart Selection" href="http://samsmartselections.mychoices.biz/Shop/Shop.aspx?L=T">Sam’s Smart Selections. Also check out class="vt-p" title="GiftCardy" href="http://www.giftcardy.com/">GiftCardy for more unique gift card ideas.

    Food

    Don’t buy processed food and gift it, that’s lame. Food is a great gift, however, if you made it yourself or chose it wisely. Bake cookies, prepare candy yourself, bring a cake, invite them to a self-cooked dinner, if they love to cook or bake themselves you can refill their spice collection, or simply share your most treasured recipes that you know they love.

    style="text-align: center;"> class="aligncenter" style="border: 0px;" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/LastMinuteGift05.png" border="0" alt="creative christmas gift ideas" width="464" height="313" />

    Do you need some ideas for recipes? We have the resources:

    • class="vt-p" title="Fascinating Recipe Sites to Brush Up Your Culinary Skills" href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/5-fascinating-unique-recipe-sites-brush-culinary-skills/">5 Fascinating Recipe Sites To Brush Up Your Culinary Skills by Jessica
    • class="vt-p" title="Non Fast Food Recipe Sites" href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/3-recipe-sites-for-the-post-fast-food-era-and-2-contrary-examples/">3 Recipe Sites For The Post Fast Food Era by Tina
    • class="vt-p" title="Top 5 Recipe Sites" href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/food-love-top-5-recipe-websites/">FOOD Love: Top 5 Recipe Websites by Aibek

    Personal Coupons

    Everyone has to complete chores that they don’t enjoy. You know what they are and you know which ones your friends and family dislike most. This Christmas you can gift relief. Be selfless, take the burden of unloved chores upon yourself, and create coupons for things like mowing the lawn, taking care of the laundry, cleaning the house, or washing the car.

    This is a gift you can be very creative with and share your skills. The best part is that this gift doesn’t cost anything, except for your time and consideration.

    style="text-align: center;"> style="border: 0px;" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/LastMinuteGift04.png" border="0" alt="creative christmas gift ideas" width="464" height="353" />

    Did you know that some of the most hated chores are doing the dishes, mowing the lawn, cleaning the house, walking and cleaning up after the dog, cooking food, shoveling the driveway or raking leaves, fixing the computer, ironing, trimming trees and shrubs, and taking out the garbage? This should give you some practical ideas for personal coupons!

    Now that you know what to gift, how on earth can you make it look nice? Don’t fret, there are tons of free online tools and templates. Try these:

    • class="vt-p" title="GiveCoupons" href="http://www.givecoupons.com/">GiveCoupons
    • Kodak class="vt-p" title="Coupon Book Templates" href="http://www.kodak.com/eknec/PageQuerier.jhtml?pq-path=11843&pq-locale=en_US&_requestid=66856">Coupon Book Templates
    • About.com class="vt-p" title="Printable Coupons" href="http://familycrafts.about.com/od/coupons/tp/couponsprint.htm">Printable Coupons

    Time With You

    Finally, the very best gift you can give a loved one is your time. Let them choose when they would like to spend time with you and in turn you get to choose how. Imagine what would make your friend or family member happy and think of creative ways to gift it to them.

    The possibilities are endless, but let me share some ideas. You could take them out for dinner at their favorite restaurant, go to a movie of their choice, attend a sports event with them, organize a weekend getaway, invite them to an all-inclusive-with-breakfast-in-bed-weekend, give a massage, or be their buddy for the first couple of workout classes they have wanted to start for ages.

    style="text-align: center;"> class="aligncenter" style="border: 0px;" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/LastMinuteGift03.png" border="0" alt="christmas gift ideas unique" width="464" height="282" />

    To create the vouchers, you can use the same tools listed under Personal Coupons.

    Love

    The greatest gift you can give is love. Don’t be edgy, don’t nag, don’t pull a face. Change your attitude, just relax, smile, be considerate, help around the house, smile some more, be generous, express your feelings, give (appropriate) compliments, cherish the moment, don’t expect anything, and appreciate everything you have.

    It will put your loved ones at ease and make their holidays more enjoyable. And you will enjoy yourself a lot more, too. Promise! Merry Christmas.

    style="text-align: center;"> class="aligncenter" style="border: 0px;" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/LastMinuteGift07.png" border="0" alt="christmas gift ideas" />

    Do you need more consumable gift ideas? Check out the following MakeUseOf articles:

    • class="vt-p" title="MakeUseOf 2010 Holiday Gift Guide" href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/complete-makeuseof-2010-holiday-gift-guide/">The Complete MakeUseOf 2010 Holiday Gift Guide
    • class="vt-p" title="Christmas Gift Idea Tools & Resources" href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/50-tools-and-resources-for-christmas-gift-ideas/">50 Tools & Resources For Christmas Gift Ideas by Ann
    • class="vt-p" title="Free Last Minute Greetings & Gift Ideas" href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/5-free-last-minute-easy-quick-greetings-gift-ideas/">5 Free Last Minute Greetings & Gift Ideas by Tina
    • class="vt-p" title="Give Money as Gifts Online" href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/5-creative-ways-give-money-gifts-online/">5 Creative Ways To Give Money As Gifts Online by Ryan
    • class="vt-p" title="Say Thank You with Online Gifts" href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/3-creative-ways-online-gifts/">3 Creative Ways To Say Thank You With Online Gifts by Tina
    • class="vt-p" title="Cool Gifts for Dad" href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/4-sites-find-cool-gifts-dad/">4 Sites To Find Cool Gifts For Dad by Angelina
    • class="vt-p" title="Shopping Guide PDF Manual" href="http://www.makeuseof.com/pages/download-shopping-guide">The MakeUseOf Shopping Guide by Tina

    Did you ever give a last minute gift? What have been some of your greatest gift ideas? Please share in the comments!

    Image credits: class="vt-p" title="Gift Box" rel="nofollow" href="http://www.shutterstock.com/pic-61471834/stock-photo-gift-box-over-white-background-d-illustration.html">koya979, class="vt-p" title="Hands Holding Small Present" rel="nofollow" href="http://www.shutterstock.com/pic-66939544/stock-photo-female-hands-holding-a-small-present-with-red-ribbon-isolated-on-white-background.htm">Ioannis Pantziaras, class="vt-p" title="Christmas Spices" rel="nofollow" href="http://www.shutterstock.com/pic-67050319/stock-photo-cinnamon-anise-and-nutmeg-on-a-white-background.html">Volosina, class="vt-p" title="Yellow Vinyl Glove Hand" rel="nofollow" href="http://www.shutterstock.com/pic-66831382/stock-photo-thumbs-up-with-a-yellow-vinyl-glove.html">Vitaly Korovin, class="vt-p" title="Woman and Clock" rel="nofollow" href="http://www.shutterstock.com/pic-65634370/stock-photo-picture-of-woman-holding-big-clock-over-white.html">lev dolgachov, class="vt-p" title="Santa Helper" rel="nofollow" href="http://www.shutterstock.com/pic-62115829/stock-photo-cute-little-santa-helper.html">Temych />
    />Follow href="http://twitter.com/MakeUseOf" target="_blank" >MakeUseOf on Twitter. Includes cool extras. />
    />

     

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    Antibacterial iPhone 4 Case ecoskin Review and Giveaway

    Posted on 10 December 2010. Tags: , , , , ,


    style="border: 0px none;margin-left:20px;float:right;" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/ecoskinintro.jpg" />How many things do you touch in a day? The door to your office building? Money from buying your morning cup of coffee? The fuel nozzle at a petrol station? The door to a public washroom? And what about your phone?

    These are a few of the most common items that a person touches in an average day. Among everything listed above, your phone is the only item that belongs to you. And so, that’s the only thing that you can keep clean.

    I know some people who are constantly obsessed with keeping their hands clean. Well, now you’re able to keep your phone relatively clean as well. UK phone accessories company Anokimobi has come up with a very unique product called href="http://www.e-pouch.co.uk/ecoskin">ecoskin. It’s made recycled material and houses an antibacterial ability. More info as we dive along.

    We’ll also be giving 5 ecoskin iPhone 4 cases. Find out how you can win one for yourself.

    id="more-60937"> /> Completely made in the UK, the £19.95 ecoskin utilises recycled material, specifically plastic, cotton and bamboo; to produce an environmentally-friendly iPhone 4 case. Even its packaging is made from recycled material. However, it’s not the case’s “green” factor that we’re interested in — it’s the “clean” factor. It’s interesting to note that these cases have been impregnated with an antibacterial substance that will keep the number of germs down to a minimum.

    The said antibacterial, Biomaster, is based on a naturally occurring metal that’s been known to harbour antimicrobial property for thousands of years and is still in common use today — argentum. Or more commonly known as silver.

    In its ionic form, silver ions exhibits a very toxic effect on bacteria, virus and fungi; yet is relatively harmless to humans. Because of this antibacterial property, many medical equipment are made out of silver. And I’d be willing to bet that you’ll be able to find silver doing its antibacterial work in your home as well — in the commonplace water filter.

    So let’s recap. The ecoskin is made out of high-grade recycled materials and the entire case has antibacterial property. It doesn’t mean that the case will always be free of bacterial. Actually, in my opinion, it basically means that the case will retard the growth of bacteria — controlling its population.

    Why would you need this? Well, why do you need to wash your clothes? Why do you shower? To maintain cleanliness. And I’d be willing to wager that you hardly bother to give your iPhone a shower or wipe down. Am I right?

    style="text-align: center;"> class="aligncenter" style="border: 0pt none;" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/P1000093.jpg" alt="P1000093.JPG" title="P1000093.JPG" border="0" width="580" height="326" />

    So let’s take a look at the ecoskin. It comes in 4 colour variations: black, white, pink and clear. On the surface it’s pretty prosaic and sports a rubbery finish. On the inside, it’s smooth. But it’s the property that you can’t see that the ecoskin trumps quite a number of cases in the market.

    style="text-align: center;"> class="aligncenter" style="border: 0pt none;" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/P1000094.jpg" alt="P1000094.JPG" title="P1000094.JPG" border="0" width="580" height="326" />

    The case has a very low profile. When fitted, the iPhone isn’t any larger or harder to hold. On the front surface, the case bevels over the iPhone’s screen — allowing the phone to be placed front side down without scratching.

    style="text-align: center;"> class="aligncenter" style="border: 0pt none;" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/P1000095.jpg" alt="P1000095.JPG" title="P1000095.JPG" border="0" width="580" height="326" />

    And because of its low profile, the sync dock and headphones jack are both very accessible. You could easily dock the iPhone with the case on without any problems.

    The volume and sleep buttons are covered but they respond well even through the case. The camera and its flash are both unobstructed. Fitting the case onto the iPhone is pretty simple and it does fit quite well. Getting it off is not as easy.

    style="text-align: center;"> class="aligncenter" style="border: 0pt none;" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/P1000096.jpg" alt="P1000096.JPG" title="P1000096.JPG" border="0" width="580" height="326" />

    If I were being picky, I’d say that the case could be better if the inner surface had a rubbery finish. In addition to that, it could do with some shock absorption. Otherwise, for a clean and green iPhone case, it’s holding up pretty well.

    The good: low profile, antibacterial.

    The bad: inner surface could be better.

    We’re giving 5 href="http://www.e-pouch.co.uk/ecoskin">ecoskins away to MakeUseOf readers.

    How do I win one?

    It’s simple, just follow the instructions.

    />
    border="0" cellspacing="20">
    colspan="2" align="left"> style="text-decoration: underline;">STEP 1 colspan="4" valign="top">Join our Facebook page by clicking the Like button or you can follow us on Twitter, if you prefer. If you’re already following us, you may skip this step. width="280" align="middle" valign="top"> src="http://www.facebook.com/plugins/likebox.php?id=27517455413&width=250&connections=0&stream=false&header=false" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" style="border:none; overflow:hidden; width:250px; height:70px"> />If you can’t see the fanbox, click on href="http://facebook.com/makeuseof/" target="_blank">this link. width="160" align="middle" valign="center"> src="http://api.tweetmeme.com/v2/follow.js?screen_name=makeuseof&style=normal" frameborder="0" height="70" width="160"> />
    border="0" cellspacing="20">
    align="left"> style="text-decoration: underline;">STEP 2 valign="top">Here’s our giveaway form. Please fill it in accurately. Be sure to enter your real name and email address so that we can get in touch if you are chosen as a winner. href="https://muo.wufoo.com/forms/p7p0r1/" onclick="window.open(this.href, null, 'height=482, width=680, toolbar=0, location=0, status=1, scrollbars=1, resizable=1'); return false" title="Anokimobi ecoskin for iPhone 4">Click here if you can’t view the form. valign="top">

    />
    border="0" cellspacing="20">
    colspan="2" align="left"> style="text-decoration: underline;">STEP 3 colspan="2" valign="top">You’re almost done. Now, all that’s left to do is to share the post. There are 2 options to choose from or you can do both! width="240" align="middle" valign="top">

    Like it on Facebook align="center"> src="http://www.facebook.com/plugins/like.php?href=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.makeuseof.com%2Ftag%2Fantibacterial-iphone-4-case-ecoskin-review-and-giveaway%2F&layout=box_count&show_faces=true&width=60&action=like&colorscheme=light&height=65" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="border:none; overflow:hidden; width:60px; height:65px;" allowTransparency="true">

    width="240" align="middle" valign="top">

    Or share it on Twitter

    align="center"> href="http://twitter.com/share" class="twitter-share-button" data-text="I've just entered @makeuseof's giveaway to win a FREE antibacterial ecoskin for my iPhone 4!" data-count="vertical">Tweet
    colspan="2" valign="top">And that’s it! You’re done! style="margin-bottom: 15px;padding:5px; border:1px solid #c6d7e1;background-color:#d8eaf2;"> Giveaway eligibility /> You must be a fan of our Facebook page to enter; /> Individuals who are over the age of 18. If you are under 18, get your parents to participate on your behalf; /> Individuals who reside in a country embargoed by the United States; Belgium, Norway, Sweden, or India are not permitted to enter.

    This giveaway begins now and ends Friday, Dec 17th at 2100hrs PST. The winners will be selected at random and announced via email.

    Spread the word to your friends and have fun!

    MakeUseOf would like to thank href="http://www.e-pouch.co.uk/ecoskin">Tom Tranter for his generosity while participating in this giveaway. Interesting in sponsoring? We’d love to hear from you. Get in touch with us via href="mailto:jackson@makeuseof.com?subject=Giveaways">email. />
    />Follow href="http://twitter.com/MakeUseOf" target="_blank" >MakeUseOf on Twitter. Includes cool extras. />
    />

     

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    Elago Tire Tread Silicon Case for iPhone 4 Review and Giveaway


    style="border: 0px none;margin-left:20px;float:right;" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/silicongiveaway.jpg" />About slightly over a month ago, we featured some iPhone cases from Elago — the href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/s4-breathe-iphone-4-case-elago-mini-giveaway/">S4 BREATHE to be exact. I personally thought that these perforated snap on cases were a hoot. They were pleasant to look at, insanely light and easy to put on and take off. Now, we’re going to look into another iPhone 4 case from Elago, and that’s the href="http://elagostore.com/elago-Tire-Tread-Silicon-Case-for/M/B003XEKRIU.htm">Tire Tread Silicon Case for the iPhone 4.

    They come and black and translucenty-white; and are just the thing if you’re looking for a stylish out-of-the-ordinary iPhone 4 case. We’re giving six of these beauties away so chime in if you want to score one for yourself. And this time, your chances are pretty good.

    id="more-57338"> /> But first, as with all giveaways, we’ll take the mandatory initial look at the product to ensure that what we’re offering you is top notch. And the href="http://elagostore.com/elago-Tire-Tread-Silicon-Case-for/M/B003XEKRIU.htm">Tire Tread Silicon Case by Elago doesn’t disappoint.

    The Tire Tread Silicon Case is designed to look like, well, tyre tread. Who knew? But don’t mock it because it’s actually quite stylish and eye-catching. It has that whole F1 thing happening and really makes the iPhone 4 a little more sporty. This case is perfect for trips to the gym. And with a soft, rubbery, silicon body; it’s the ultimate candidate for the occasion too.

    style="text-align: center;"> class="aligncenter" style="border: 0pt none;" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/silicon1.jpg" />

    If you’re thinking that it’s probably made out of low-grade silicon case, think again. This case can hold its own. The material doesn’t feel cheap and after using for it a while, I’m confident that it’ll last; probably longer than the iPhone can. The case itself isn’t very thick and not too soft. While encasing the iPhone, it doesn’t feel loose but isn’t very difficult to take off either.

    style="text-align: center;"> class="aligncenter" style="border: 0pt none;" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/silicon2.jpg" />

    I haven’t tried stretching it but I get the feeling that it won’t break or tear easily. So again, it’s quite durable. The only unpleasant encounter was the slightly stubborn power button that needs to be press a little harder than usual. Other than that, I have no complaints. Being silicon, it doesn’t really collect a lot of dust and isn’t very sticky.

    style="text-align: center;"> class="aligncenter" style="border: 0pt none;" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/silicon3.jpg" />

    While the black model is stylish, the only word that describe the href="http://elagostore.com/elago-Tire-Tread-Silicon-Case-for/M/B003XEKZGO.htm">white model appropriately is stunning. Seriously, look at it.

    style="text-align: center;"> class="aligncenter" style="border: 0pt none;" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/elagotirewhite.jpeg" />

    It’s made exactly the same. The silicon and the pattern are the same. The only difference is this being translucent. And you know what? It’s perfect for the white iPhone!

    So, we’re giving six Elago Tire Tread Silicon cases away — that’s 3 black and 3 white models. Do you want one?

    How do I enter?

    It’s simple, just follow the instructions.

    />

    STEP 1

    Join our Facebook page by liking us. If you’re already following us, you may skip this step.

    src="http://www.facebook.com/plugins/like.php?href=http%3A%2F%2Ffacebook.com%2Fmakeuseof&layout=standard&show_faces=true&width=450&action=like&colorscheme=light&height=80" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="border:none; overflow:hidden; width:450px; height:80px;" allowTransparency="true">

    If you can’t see the fanbox, click on href="http://facebook.com/makeuseof/" target="_blank">this link.

    />

    STEP 2

    Here’s our giveaway form. Please fill it in accurately. Be sure to enter your real email address so that we can get in touch if you are chosen as a winner. href="https://muo.wufoo.com/forms/s7p4a1/" onclick="window.open(this.href, null, 'height=482, width=680, toolbar=0, location=0, status=1, scrollbars=1, resizable=1'); return false" title="Elago Tire Tread Silicon Case For IPhone 4">Click here if you can’t view the form.

    />

    STEP 3

    You’re almost done. Now, all that’s left to do is to LIKE the post. This step is optional but why not spread the love?

    src="http://www.facebook.com/plugins/like.php?href=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.makeuseof.com%2Ftag%2Felago-tire-thread-silicon-case-iphone-4-review-giveaway%2F&layout=standard&show_faces=true&width=450&action=like&colorscheme=light&height=80" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="border:none; overflow:hidden; width:450px; height:80px;" allowTransparency="true">

    And that’s it! You’re done!

    style="margin-bottom: 15px;padding:5px; border:1px solid #c6d7e1;background-color:#d8eaf2;">Giveaway eligibility /> You must be a fan of our Facebook page to enter; /> Individuals who are over the age of 18. If you are under 18, get your parents to participate on your behalf; /> Individuals who reside in a country embargoed by the United States; Belgium, Norway, Sweden, or India are not permitted to enter.

    This giveaway begins now and ends after 300 submissions. The winner will be selected at random and announced via email.

    Spread the word to your friends and have fun! />
    />Do you like MakeUseOf articles? Don’t forget to target="_blank" href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/share-share-share-spread-word/">share our articles with others! It’s really important to us. />
    />

     

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    S4 BREATHE iPhone 4 Case by Elago [Mini Giveaway]


    style="border: 0px none;margin-left:20px;float:right;" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/elagogiveaway.jpg" />Who doesn’t love dressing up their iPhones? Until recently, there were only a couple of big names in iPhone accessories. Now, we’re flooded with so many great iPhone case design companies that shock and awe us with their gorgeous products. Here I am, trying to help MakeUseOf readers sift through the Amazon of iPhone cases and get to the very best — and not to mention offering a couple of freebies along the way.

    Today, we’ll be looking at the href="http://elagostore.com/elago-S4-BREATHE-Case-for-iphone/M/B003ZHPWKS.htm">S4 BREATHE case from Elago.

    id="more-54978"> /> This is a very simple snap-on case that’s made of (insanely) light but durable polycarbonate (that’s plastic to you and me) with a polyurethane coating to give it the “sticky” feeling for better grip. Although it weighs just 20 grams, the case is very rigid and doesn’t feel like it’s going to break anytime soon even after I’ve flexed it for a bit.

    style="text-align: center;"> class="aligncenter" style="border: 0pt none;" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/breathe1.jpg" />

    Attaching the case to my iPhone took some practise but once it was on, it stayed put and was a very tight fit. The case covers the rear surface and corners of the iPhone; exposing the front, top and bottom surfaces. I’d be willing to go out on a limb to say that if you’re clumsy, this isn’t the case for you.

    style="text-align: center;"> class="aligncenter" style="border: 0pt none;" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/breathe2.jpg" />

    It comes in 3 colours: black, white and silver. The black and white cases both look very classy. The silver one adds a bit of funk to your iPhone, if you’re into that sort of thing.

    style="text-align: center;"> class="aligncenter" style="border: 0pt none;" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/breathe3.jpg" />

    Overall, the S4 BREATHE iPhone 4 case from Elago is a fashionable, classy case that will do your iPhone proud. For a limited time only, the case is available for only $9.99 from their href="http://elagostore.com/elago-S4-BREATHE-Case-for-iphone/M/B003Z3CUH0.htm">online store but we’re giving three away today.

    How do I enter?

    It’s simple, just follow the instructions.

    />

    STEP 1

    Join our Facebook page by liking us. If you’re already following us, you may skip this step.

    src="http://www.facebook.com/plugins/like.php?href=http%3A%2F%2Ffacebook.com%2Fmakeuseof&layout=standard&show_faces=true&width=450&action=like&colorscheme=light&height=80" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="border:none; overflow:hidden; width:450px; height:80px;" allowTransparency="true">

    If you can’t see the fanbox, click on href="http://facebook.com/makeuseof/" target="_blank">this link.

    />

    STEP 2

    Here’s our giveaway form. Please fill it in accurately. Be sure to enter your real email address so that we can get in touch if you are chosen as a winner. href="https://muo.wufoo.com/forms/r7p5x1/" onclick="window.open(this.href, null, 'height=260, width=680, toolbar=0, location=0, status=1, scrollbars=1, resizable=1'); return false" title="S4 BREATHE iPhone 4 Case">Click here if you can’t view the form.

    />

    STEP 3

    You’re almost done. Now, all that’s left to do is to LIKE the post. This step is optional but why not spread the love?

    src="http://www.facebook.com/plugins/like.php?href=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.makeuseof.com%2Ftag%2Fs4-breathe-iphone-4-case-elago-mini-giveaway%2F&layout=standard&show_faces=true&width=450&action=like&colorscheme=light&height=80" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="border:none; overflow:hidden; width:450px; height:80px;" allowTransparency="true">

    And that’s it! You’re done!

    style="margin-bottom: 15px;padding:5px; border:1px solid #c6d7e1;background-color:#d8eaf2;">Giveaway eligibility /> You must be a fan of our Facebook page to enter; /> Individuals who are over the age of 18. If you are under 18, get your parents to participate on your behalf; /> Individuals who reside in a country embargoed by the United States, Belgium, Norway, Sweden, or India are not permitted to enter.

    This giveaway begins now and ends after 300 submissions. The winners will be selected at random and announced via email.

    Spread the word to your friends and have fun!

     

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    Fitted iPhone 4 Case by Speck Giveaway Winners


    style="border: 0px none;margin-left:20px;float:right;height:200px" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/giveawayspeckfittediphone4.png" />Another Speck href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/makeuseof-review-giveaway-fitted-iphone-4-case-speck/">review and giveaway has come and gone. Are you looking forward to the next giveaway? We’ll continue to dish out some cool Speck accessories and next, we’ll probably look at another iPad case. Stay tuned!

    Here are the winners of the Speck Fitted iPhone 4 Case giveaway:

    1. Anthony Mosko
    2. Elena Sawyer
    3. Sixia Sun
    4. Shahar Shlomi
    5. Gabriel Lochtefeld

    Winners, please note: You’ve been sent an email regarding your prize. Please reply it within 48 hours. If you fail to respond, your prize will be forfeit.

    MakeUseOf would like to thank href="http://www.speckproducts.com/">the fabulous team over at Speck for their generosity while participating in this giveaway. Interesting in sponsoring? We’d love to hear from you. Get in touch with us via href="mailto:jackson@makeuseof.com?subject=Giveaways&cc=aibek@makeuseof.com">email. />
    /> Got Questions? Ask Them Now FREE on href="http://www.makeuseof.com/answers/">MakeUseOf Answers!

    />

     

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    What Is Lorem Ipsum & Where Did It Come From? [In Case You Were Wondering]


    class="align-left" style="border: 0px none; margin-left: 20px; margin-top: 5px; float: right;" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/loremipsum.jpg" alt="lorem ipsum" />If you have ever searched for a class="vt-p" href="http://makeuseof.com/tags/wordpress">WordPress theme before, you will have probably noticed that some theme designers use some weird text when showing off their themes which looks like Latin.  I have always wondered what it was, why designers choose to use it and where it came from.

    After a bit of research I have some answers.

    id="more-52333">

    What Is Lorem Ipsum?

    Lorem Ipsum is a group of text that people commonly use as filler text, or dummy text.  It’s basically a bunch of mumbo-jumbo (at least that’s what it looks like) that people use to show what a design layout will look like when the proper text has been inserted.

    style="text-align: center;"> class="aligncenter" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/loremipsum_exampletext.png" alt="what is lorem ipsum" width="397" height="258" />

    Why Do Designers Use Lorem Ipsum?

    What I kept asking myself is why they would use this jumbled up mess of a foreign language and not some English text?  It all comes down to focus. It’s a known fact that if they were to use actual copy, someone trying to look at only the design would be distracted by what the text says.  That is one of the major reasons people choose to use Lorem Ipsum. With text that is unrecognizable, there’s nothing to read.

    Where Did Lorem Ipsum Come From?

    As it turns out, Lorem Ipsum did come from Latin.  It’s actually a modified version of it.  What does it actually say?  According to class="vt-p" href="http://www.lipsum.com/">Lipsum.com,

    Lorem Ipsum comes from sections 1.10.32 and 1.10.33 of “de Finibus Bonorum et Malorum” (The Extremes of Good and Evil) by Cicero, written in 45 BC.

    Lorem Ipsum has been used since the 1500’s.  It was made popular in the 1960’s and has survived into the digital age with desktop publishing programs like Aldus PageMaker.  As we also know, it is still being widely used among web designers such as WordPress theme designers to show different design elements.

    style="text-align: center;"> class="aligncenter" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/loremipsum_wordpressutilization.png" alt="what is lorem ipsum" width="368" height="286" />

    Can I Use Lorem Ipsum For My Projects?

    Sure, why not?  It is still widely used so join the proverbial club. In fact there are many tools out there that make using it so easy.  Here are a few of them.

    class="vt-p" href="http://www.lipsum.com/">Lipsum.com

    I have already quoted from this site because it contains quite a bit of information on the subject.  It also contains a tool to generate a portion of the text.

    style="text-align: center;"> class="aligncenter" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/loremipsum_lipsumtool.png" alt="lorem ipsum generator" width="435" height="246" />

    MakeUseOf’s class="vt-p" href="http://www.makeuseof.com/dir/">Directory contains a class="vt-p" href="http://www.makeuseof.com/dir/lipsum-lorem-ipsum-dummy-content/">writeup about it.  Since that time they have released both a class="vt-p" href="https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/addon/2064/">Firefox plugin and a class="vt-p" href="https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/addon/2064/">Chrome plugin.

    class="vt-p" href="http://www.makeuseof.com/dir/lorem2-lorem-ipsum-sample-text-demos/">Lorem2: “Lorem Ipsum” Text Samples

    This isn’t really a software program or tool per se.  It’s really a website containing different sample Lorem Ipsum texts.  It contains short paragraphs, long paragraphs, short list items and long list items.  Web designers should add this site to their tool belt.

    class="vt-p" href="http://www.makeuseof.com/dir/html-ipsum-lorem-ipsum-text-sample/">HTML-Ipsum

    This tool takes Lorem Ipsum usage to a whole different level for web developers.

    style="text-align: center;"> class="aligncenter" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/loremipsum_htmlipsum.png" alt="lorem ipsum generator" width="400" height="377" />

    They offer much of what the last tools offers but with the HTML tags included, making development that much easier.

    Tell us, do you use Lorem Ipsum?  If so, in what way?  What tools do you use that we should know about? />
    />Follow href="http://twitter.com/MakeUseOf" target="_blank" >MakeUseOf on Twitter. Includes cool extras. />
    />

     

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    MakeUseOf Review & Giveaway: CandyShell iPad Case by Speck


    style="border: 0px none;margin-left:20px;float:right;" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/giveawayspeckcandyshell.png" />Over the past couple of months, our giveaways have gotten a fair bit of attention. We’ve handed out href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/15-musthave-free-apps-mac/">apps for Mac users, href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/15-copies-windows-7-plain-simple-oreilly-makeuseof-giveaway/">ebooks, href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/iosafe-solo-giveaway/">indestructible hard drives and even a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/zozi-trip-giveaway/">$10,000 trip to New Zealand. But this very moment is probably the pinnacle of our giveaway program because we’ve been joined by fantastic company from Palo Alto, CA. Please join me in welcoming Speck as a returning sponsor, who will be giving away tones of cool free stuff right here at MakeUseOf.

    In this debut, href="http://www.speckproducts.com/">Speck will be offering a couple of href="http://www.speckproducts.com/products/candyshell/ipad/235">CandyShell iPad cases to MakeUseOf readers. I’ve actually had the honour of testing this particular iPad case. Personally, I’m in love with it. Let me show you what all the fuss is about.

    id="more-52138">

    style="text-align: center;"> class="aligncenter" style="border: 0pt none;" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2111.jpg" />

    The first thing you’ll notice about this iPad case is that it only covers the back. This is generally going to attack the principles of some hardcore iPad users because there isn’t any front-facing protection. Honestly, I don’t really see the point in a front cover simply because the iPad’s screen is so durable (I’ve had the iPhone 2G for 3 years without a case and it hasn’t been scratched or scuffed at all) so I feel pretty confident using the iPad with this CandyShell case alone. You should too, unless you are super clumsy and always dropping your stuff. In that case, you’ll be better off with one of Speck’s iPad sleeves like the href="http://www.speckproducts.com/products/pixelshield/ipad/224">PixelShield or their href="http://www.speckproducts.com/products/shieldview/ipad/233">iPad ShieldView screen films.

    style="text-align: center;"> class="aligncenter" style="border: 0pt none;" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2128.jpg" />

    Judging from the material and build quality, I can assure you that the case will protect your iPad from a fall, say from about waist-high. It feels extremely sturdy since it’s made from a single piece of high quality polycarbonate plastic — trust me, it exudes tough. The interior surface has a contrasting character and is lined with a soft, rubbery material which doubles as a shock absorber.

    style="text-align: center;"> class="aligncenter" style="border: 0pt none;" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2118.jpg" />

    Slipping the iPad into the case takes href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lwQowvXRhRA">a bit of Kung-Fu but is generally quite manageable. There’s a fine balance between durability and expandability in this case. Instead of a entirely plastic shell, the edges include a fine gap filled with rubber, allowing the CandyShell to minutely expand and envelope the iPad. Genius stuff. Once the iPad is in the case, it’s feels pretty darn good to hold.

    style="text-align: center;"> class="aligncenter" style="border: 0pt none;" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2117.jpg" />

    It also features a snap off flip-back panel when you need to connect the iPad to a regular or a keyboard dock.

    style="text-align: center;"> class="aligncenter" style="border: 0pt none;" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2134.jpg" />

    The CandyShell also addresses one of the iPad’s minor design flaws — it reduces the rocking action caused when typing on the on-screen keyboard.

    style="text-align: center;"> class="aligncenter" style="border: 0pt none;" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2126.jpg" />

    To wrap up, the href="http://www.speckproducts.com/products/candyshell/ipad/235">CandyShell offers superb protection without sacrificing style. I’d recommend one to any iPad owner. But hey, as MakeUseOf readers, we have a great offer for you today. We’re giving away FIVE Speck CandyShell iPad cases to readers worldwide. Here’s how you can win one for yourself.

    How do I win one?

    It’s simple, just follow the instructions.

    />
    border="0" cellspacing="20">
    colspan="2" align="left"> style="text-decoration: underline;">STEP 1 colspan="4" valign="top">Join our Facebook page by clicking the Like button or you can follow us on Twitter, if you prefer. If you’re already following us, you may skip this step. width="280" align="middle" valign="top"> src="http://www.facebook.com/plugins/likebox.php?id=27517455413&width=250&connections=0&stream=false&header=false" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" style="border:none; overflow:hidden; width:250px; height:70px"> />If you can’t see the fanbox, click on href="http://facebook.com/makeuseof/" target="_blank">this link. width="160" align="middle" valign="center"> src="http://api.tweetmeme.com/v2/follow.js?screen_name=makeuseof&style=normal" frameborder="0" height="70" width="160"> />
    border="0" cellspacing="20">
    align="left"> style="text-decoration: underline;">STEP 2 valign="top">Here’s our giveaway form. Please fill it in accurately. Be sure to enter your real name and email address so that we can get in touch if you are chosen as a winner. href="https://muo.wufoo.com/forms/q7p8q3/" onclick="window.open(this.href, null, 'height=482, width=680, toolbar=0, location=0, status=1, scrollbars=1, resizable=1'); return false" title="Speck CandyShell iPad Case">Click here if you can’t view the form. valign="top">

    />
    border="0" cellspacing="20">
    colspan="2" align="left"> style="text-decoration: underline;">STEP 3 colspan="2" valign="top">You’re almost done. Now, all that’s left to do is to share the post. There are 2 options to choose from or you can do both! width="240" align="middle" valign="top">

    Share it on Facebook

    title="Share on Facebook" onclick="window.open('http://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/makeuseof-review-giveaway-candyshell-ipad-case-speck/','popup','width=800,height=500,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=200,top=100'); return false;"> style="border: 0pt none;" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/facebook.png" alt="" /> width="240" align="middle" valign="top">

    Or on Twitter

    title="Share on Twitter" onclick="window.open('http://twitter.com/home/?status=I%27ve+just+entered+%40makeuseof%27s+giveaway+to+win+a+FREE+CandyShell+iPad+case+by+%40speckproducts+http%3A%2F%2Fmuo%2Efm%2F9ozoJQ','popup','width=880,height=500,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=200,top=100'); return false;"> style="border: 0pt none;" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/twitterbutton.png" /> colspan="2" valign="top">And that’s it! You’re done! />

    This giveaway begins now and ends Wednesday, September 1st at 2100hrs PST. The winners will be selected at random and announced via email.

    Spread the word to your friends and have fun!

    MakeUseOf would like to thank href="http://www.speckproducts.com/">the fabulous team over at Speck for their generosity while participating in this giveaway. Interesting in sponsoring? We’d love to hear from you. Get in touch with us via href="mailto:jackson@makeuseof.com?subject=Giveaways&cc=aibek@makeuseof.com">email. />
    />Do you like MakeUseOf articles? Don’t forget to target="_blank" href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/share-share-share-spread-word/">share our articles with others! It’s really important to us.

    />

     

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    Who Invented the Pascal Program? [In Case You Were Wondering]


    style="border: 0px none;margin-left:20px;float:right;" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/inventedpascal.jpg" alt="who invented pascal program"/>The href="hhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pascal_(programming_language)">Pascal programming language, which was based on the ALGOL computer language, was developed in the late 1960’s and was named after Blaise Pascal — a French mathematician, responsible for a series of discoveries and who also invented the first calculator (called Pascaline) in 1645.

    Considering that Pascal died in 1662 and that the Pascal language was invented almost 300 years later, he can’t possibly have created the language. Then who invented the Pascal programming language?

    id="more-49862"> /> Pascal was developed by Niklaus Wirth, who was born on February 15, 1934 in Winterthur, Switzerland to Walter, a geography professor, and Hedwig (Keller) Wirth. Niklaus developed the Algol-W which was implemented on one of the first IBM 360 (which was as large as a room) and used it as a base for the development of the Pascal language a few years later.

    style="text-align: center;"> class="aligncenter" style="border: 0pt none;" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/ibm_360.jpg" alt="who invented pascal program"/>

    “Whereas Europeans generally pronounce my name the right way (‘Nick-louse Veert’), Americans invariably mangle it into ‘Nickel’s Worth.’ This is to say that Europeans call me by name, but Americans call me by value.” /> ~ Niklaus Wirth

    Pascal was created by Wirth as a language that could be used for teaching fundamental concepts that would work reliably and efficiently on the computers available in the 1970’s. Pascal ended up being used for computer games, embedded systems and research projects, and was also used for the development of the href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Apple_Lisa">Lisa, one of the early Apple (Macintosh) computers and one of its derivatives, Object Pascal, is still used today, in applications such as Skype.

    style="text-align: center;"> class="aligncenter" style="border: 0pt none;" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/AppleLisa4_3.jpg" alt="who wrote the pascal programming language"/>

    Niklaus Wirth is the author of highly recognized books, such as “Algorithms + Data Structures = Programs” (1976) and has received ten honorary doctorates and was awarded the href="http://www.ieee.org/about/awards/index.html"> IEEE Emmanuel Piore Prize and the href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turing_Award">Turing Prize in 1984 among many others, but Wirth’s main contribution has always been the concept of creating productive software designed in an organized fashion and free of unnecessary clutter.

    style="text-align: center;"> class="aligncenter" style="border: 0pt none;" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/award.jpg" alt="who wrote the pascal programming language"/>

    In his article named “ href="http://cr.yp.to/bib/1995/wirth.pdf">A Plea for Lean Software” [PDF] which was written by Wirth in 1995, he explains some of the issues with software development and why it’s important to create clean, organized code by quoting two “laws” that he believes reflect the business:

    • Software expands to fill the available memory. (Parkinson)
    • Software is getting slower more rapidly than hardware becomes faster. (Reiser)

    Interesting ideas, considering the number of lines of code of some of the most used software today, seems to be growing larger even as the hardware grows smaller each day.  For example:

    • Basic had 4,000 lines of code in 1975, now it has over 2 million.
    • The first version of Word had 27,000 lines of code. The current version of Office has over 30 million.
    • Mac OS X is made of about 90 million lines of code.
    • Windows 95 was made of 15 million lines of code, Windows 7 is made of over 50 million lines of code.
    • A single game application for the iPhone, such as the “Unreal” game app has over 2 million lines of code.
    style="text-align: center;"> class="aligncenter" style="border: 0pt none;" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/unreal.jpg" alt="who invented pascal program"/>

    He has stated that the only reason software has become large is because software vendors add features customers think they want, but never use. He was also a proponent of the idea that software should be completely understood by at least one person, and that having teams developing programs without any of them fully understanding its entirety caused a lot of unnecessary complexity and useless code.

    style="text-align: center;"> class="aligncenter" style="border: 0pt none;" src="http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/2010-07-21_1650.jpg" alt="who wrote the pascal programming language"/>

    His development of Pascal was a testament to those beliefs. Pascal is still considered one of the most mathematical of computer languages. Its core is designed around focus on essentials, object oriented programming and keeping a simple core that is lightweight and easily understood.

    Did you know about Pascal? />
    /> Follow href="http://twitter.com/MakeUseOf" target="_blank" >MakeUseOf on Twitter. Includes cool extras.

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    Improving Investigations With Case Management Software


    In a large company, it can be difficult to monitor the actions of each employee. Every organization is faced with a number of factors that put their company at risk. Risks vary between industries, however, one thing remains the same- employers are responsible for protecting their employees and providing them with a safe workplace. In some cases, accidents still happen, employees choose not to follow proper procedures and misconduct ensues. In these types of situations, companies will want to ensure they have an effective reporting system in place, as well as proper tools for conducting top notch internal investigations.

    Our Story

    At i-Sight, we understand the different pressures organizations are under to comply with regulations and conduct timely investigations. We developed i-Sight Investigation Software to meet a need we recognized within our own workplaces eleven years ago. Since then, we have continued to enhance our understanding of the issues companies face through speaking with our clients and prospects in order to create a solution that makes their job easier.

    Closing the Gap

    When an individual or company comes to us requesting more information, or a demonstration of i-Sight, many have identified gaps in their current systems, and are looking for a solution that can be built around the processes they already have in place. For example, at Underwriters Laboratories (UL), wanted a system that could handle large volumes of cases, was accessible from any location due to traveling investigators and would allow their current investigations team to handle increasing case volumes without having to add additional members to the team.

    At UL, the ability to build a criminally enforceable case requires detailed tracking of information and coordination with law enforcement agencies. UL originally utilized a simple database; however, the application was not capable of capturing e-mails or attachments and didn’t provide investigators with a comprehensive “visual” of each case.

    According to Judith Lykins, manager, Anti-Counterfeiting Operations at UL:

    “Our goal is to keep dangerous products out of the hands of consumers. In order to put together a successful investigation for criminal enforcement, we needed a more effective way to collect, analyze and output our data.

    In order to make it easier for members of the Anti-Counterfeiting Operations team to adopt i-Sight, it was designed to include the same terminology and categories used throughout the process at UL. Now, all members of the Anti-Counterfeiting Operations team have the ability to manage large case loads, while meeting deadlines and submitting consistent reports. i-Sight is a web based system, which makes it easy for traveling investigators to work on cases from any location with an Internet connection.

    Increasing Enforcement

    Organizations can lose thousands, even millions of dollars if investigations are not completed properly. For example, failure to investigate an employee complaint may result in a costly lawsuit, while taking too long to complete an investigation may result in money lost due to ongoing fraudulent actions. In 2003, the State of West Virginia launched a major reform of its workers’ compensation system, which was then heavily in debt and losing close to $1 million a day. A key goal of the initiative was to reduce the occurrence of fraud and abuse, by stepping up enforcement and by ensuring greater coordination among the state officials who were responsible for overseeing the system.

    “‘First, we found that the reporting features within i-Sight were excellent,’ said Chris Bailes, Director of Operations at the Office of the Inspector General. ‘That is really key, because without good data we can’t make good decisions. And second, we appreciated the flexibility that i-Sight gave us. We liked the fact that if we wanted to change our internal procedures six months down the road, i-Sight would allow us to do that.’”

    Since implementing i-Sight, the Office of the Inspector General (for the first time ever) has a convenient way of tracking and monitoring court-ordered restitution and repayments. Prior to implementing i-Sight, Bailes stated they  ”had over $6 million dollars in restitution and repayment agreements, and a little over 10% of that had been paid. We needed a way to monitor that situation the same way a bank monitors its loan repayments, with automatic alerts when people are missing their payments. i-Sight case management software does that for us, which is a fantastic feature.”

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