Favorite Files

1. CCleaner
2. foobar2000
3. PerfectDisk Professional
4. Revo Uninstaller
5. Sandboxie

Recent Posts

1. 
   Review - Auslogics Disk Defrag

   3.1.0.60 (Nov 12, 2009)

   With the added features in version 3, Disk Defrag has indeed become a useful program and worthy of consideration. Auslogics' promise of future MFT defrag will make it an even more viable product.
   
   The portable version which I tested does have a deal breaker: it writes it's settings in the registry of every computer it is used on. I have suggested that Auslogics use a local INI file for this purpose, making it a true portable app. The portable executable is really an installer that silently extracts it's files to the user's temp folder, executes the program from there and then deletes the files when the program is exited.

2. 
   Review - TuneUp Utilities 2010

   9.0.2000.16 (Oct 30, 2009)

   TuneUp Utilities 2010 is still a 5 star program, but updating from 2009 was disappinting. Admittedly, I have not examined each individual module in detail, but an overview reveals nothing to merit a major version upgrade. The only signifigant difference appears to be the Integrator face lift which offers no advantage over 2009. As for the new turbo mode, I really see no real value in this feature.
   
   This version also adds a new service, which makes a grand total of five! Setting the service to Manual helps, but it continues to run after the program is exited. A scheduled task was also added even though all automated features are disabled.
   
   IMO this is a minor update at best; not a $30 major upgrade. This version will co-exist with TU 2009, so test driving the 30 day trial is highly recommended.

3. 
   Review - The KMPlayer

   2.9.4.1435 (Sep 14, 2009)

   This version of KMPlayer has been around since about last January. The only difference in this download is the installer is 2MB larger due to the addition of some crapware.
   
   I unpacked the files and found the ASK Toolbar installer has been added. I didn't install it so I don't know if the toolbar is an option or if it is just installed.
   
   You can still find the 12MB installer for this version if you look arout the internet.

4. 
   Review - Gem Ball Ancient Legends

   1.10 (Sep 3, 2009)

   If you like "breakout" games, this is a good one.
   
   It's available from Reflexive Arcade for $6.99.
   http://www.reflexive.com/GemBall.html
   While you're there, try Strike Ball 3 and Magic Ball 4. Both 5 star games.

5. 
   Review - Audio Recorder for Free

   5.6 (Sep 3, 2009)

   This is adware. Unacceptable.
   
   It is clearly stated on the installer opening screen. Click the Cancel button and exit.
   There are alternative freeware sound recorders available,