My situation cannot be all that unique, but, I cannot seem to find the right solution that MUST be out there.
I am a long time Sidekick users. I like the sidekick but would like a bit more power in the device and be able to run other apps. On the advice of a friend (who also used to own a sidekick) I got an XDA (T-Mobile MDA specifically) on ebay, but, I am giving up one HUGE thing, I think... The Sidekick automatically syncs with the Desktop website, so all my notes, contact info, addressbook, to-do list is on the web. With the XDA the info will be on my desktop at home in Outlook.
Why is this a problem? Because I ->CANNOT<- carry a cell phone into my work site but I do have internet access. This gave me most of my Sidekicks functionality (except for making calls) from my desk at work. Could look up contacts, etc. It also gave me this access from any location in the world as long as I had internet access (even if that location didn't have GPRS, my power on the Sidekick died, whatever).
Is there a website that will stay sync'd with my outlook, something I can add to my website (PHP + MySql), or I can run a website from my desktop machine (PHP, Java, MySql, whatever I can install anything). I am not chomping at the bit to install Exchange with Outlook Web Access on my machine at home, though... WAY too much work I think.
Any suggestions would be great. The best I have found is www.freeoffice.de, but, my ability to speak German is somewhat limited. Yahoo apparently used to offer an intellisync ability, but, alas now it is an export or export via CSV it appears. I found another service that seems to primarily be a fax/voicemail service at like $3/month for this. I guess if they work great I could pony up that, but... I don't really need fax/voicemail service.
I don't really need this to support email, I can get my email on the web from elsewhere. Primarily all the other PDA functions.
Any help greatly appreciated.
Kevin
I use the Yahoo Intellisync which works well directly with Outlook data, no converting or anything, just run the Intellisync program and all the data from Outlook is available on a webpage.
Notepad, Calender, Address Book and ToDo List are all synced.
I don't know if they charge for the service as I get it as part of my Internet package with BTYahoo - this is UK based, but I suppose it is available everywhere.
I Don't think Yahoo Still Offers...
When I looked before I couldn't find the Yahoo sync option, but, now I see it. Thanks for making me look again. This should do nicely, I hope.
Hello all!
Recently I've started using two seperate Android devices to read books
using FBReaderJ for Android, a NookColor, and my phone, a Sprint EVO
3D. Very quickly, I ran into a problem. I read the same books on both
devices, so I ended up spending a lot of time looking for my place
whenever I switched devices (I used the NC at home, and my phone
everywhere else).
I imagine that this must be a problem quite a few people are having,
or will be having as android devices become more popular.
So, I wrote an android app to synchronize my place in each book
between the two devices.
App Name: FBSync
Current Version: v1.0.26
Revision History:
1.0.26 - Removed Auto-Sync feature (hopefully just temporarily. I want to get this working, but the FBReader API just doesn't provide enough functionality to get it working smoothly). Removed syncing of "recent" books (It caused more trouble than it was worth, sorry, you will have to manually open your book if you changed books on another device). Added a "Sync" item to the FBReader menu that pulls up FBSync.
1.0.24 - Updated Dropbox support to use latest Dropbox API. Fixed Auto-Sync feature to properly sync new book positions (broken due to a change in FBReader). Due to limitations in FBReader, the Auto-Sync feature is still rather rough.
1.0.23 - Added a Dropbox support for your book position data, an Auto-Sync feature that makes use of the FBReader API, and (in theory) the program has been translated into Russian (thanks Dmitry!). If you have set up your own synchronization server, you will need to update the PHP files to the files in the attached sync.zip
1.0.19 - Fixed another bug that affected Honeycomb devices. Confirmed working on an Acer Iconia A500.
1.0.18 - Fixed a bug that affected Honeycomb devices (I hope!)
1.0.17 - Added "Alternate Sync URL" functionality for those people who want to set up their own sync server instead of using mine. See below for more instructions.
Requirements:
1) Root. Your devices must be rooted. This application only uses
root for two things. First, it uses root to get access to the
FBReaderJ books database, and second, it uses root to kill the
FBReaderJ process before it syncs the data (it has to kill the process
to force FBReader to reload the database).
2) FBReaderJ must be installed on the device (you will be prompted to
install it if you haven't already when you load my app)
3) You must have already opened FBReaderJ at least once, and viewed
it's library (Menu button, "Library"). This creates the databases
that my application needs.
Download:
An older version is available on Google Play, but the latest version can always be found at the bottom of this post.
Instructions for Use:
As of v1.0.23, you have the option of either syncing book positions to my web server, or to Dropbox. If you choose to use Dropbox, it will create a single file on your Dropbox account (under \FBSync) that contains the book position data.
If you desire to sync the book positions to my web server, you can also enable a new, experimental "Auto-Sync" feature that syncs your position whenever you open or close FBReader (or a book in FBReader). This functionality only works when using my web server, it does not currently work with Dropbox.
The auto-sync feature make use of FBReader's API and makes FBSync work as a plug-in for FBReader. Unfortunately the API does not contain all of the features needed to completely remove the root requirement for FBSync.
If you are going to use my web server to sync:
After you install it, go into the settings (blue icon, or menu/
settings), and enter an email (doesn't have to be an email, any unique
string will work) and numeric pin # (this isn't secure, so don't use a
pin you care about). The email/pin is just to uniquely identify you.
You should use the same email/pin on each device.
On the same screen, you can choose to sync the actual book files to Dropbox. Since your Dropbox account is used, only your account can access the books, if
you choose to sync them. It only uploads/downloads the books when it
needs them, so it may take a while the first time you sync, but after
that it shouldn't take more than a minute MAX (my typical sync times
for 90 books is about 5-10 seconds)
Click the middle, orange icon, to begin the sync process.
If this is the first time you've synced since selecting the "Enable Dropbox" setting, you will be prompted to allow FBSync access to your dropbox account.
The sync process first uploads, then downloads. It only updates the book's "place" on the web (or Dropbox) if it's farther ahead than the web's "place" for the book.
If you are using the Auto-Sync function, the above statement is not true. It always saves the exact position of your book upon closure of FbReader or closing the book.
Miscellaneous Info:
This program is still in beta. I have used and tested it extensively,
but I'm not liable if you manage to break it somehow. Since it does
alter the data in FBReader's databases (it does not, and never will,
alter the database structures), it is possible, but very unlikely,
that it could lose your book's places. I would suggest that you back
up FBReaderJ using something like Titanium Backup before you start
using FBSync, just to be on the safe side.
The synchronized book position data is currently hosted on my personal web server, or your Dropbox account (as of v1.0.23). Your book files are only stored on your Dropbox account.
UPDATE: As of v1.0.17, I added the ability to define your own "Sync Server". Here's how to use it:
In the Settings (Menu, Settings), there is a new option "Alternate Sync URL" where you can enter your own URL. Leave it blank if you want to use my server.
If you want to use your own, you will need the file attached to this post. I wouldn't recommend trying to set up your own server unless you are pretty comfortable with web servers, php, and mySql.
Sync.zip contains a .SQL script, and several .PHP files that are required to set up your own sync server.
The primary thing that you need to set up your own Sync server is a HTTP Web server that supports mySql and PHP.
On your server, create a new mySql database (name doesn't matter, just make sure there's a user attached to it that has insert/update/delete rights), then run the sql code in the sync.sql to create the two tables that are needed.
Edit the common.php file and replace the '' values in this block:
Code:
$dbhost = 'localhost';
$dbuser = ''; // Fill out the database user name here
$dbpass = ''; // Fill out the database user password here
$dbname = ''; // Fill out the database name here
with the correct values for your server. $dbhost can probably remain 'localhost'.
Then create a directory on your web server that is accessible from your devices, and put the 5 PHP files into it.
Launch FBSync, hit Menu, Settings, click the "Alternate Sync URL", and type in the URL that points to the directory you put those PHP files in (ex; http://sync.splitmatrix.net/alternate_sync ). You must start it with http://, and it should not end in a /.
After you enter the URL, save out of it, back out to the main FBSync window, and click the Sync button. If you set up everything correctly, it should sync to your server now instead of mine.
Please let me know of any issues you find, or any improvements you
want.
Thanks,
Scott
6/27/2012 Edit - Updated Sync.zip to remove some buggy code from addbook.php
Hi Scott,
I only have 1 device right now, so no need for sync, but I would be interested in how you can read your BN books with FBRreader. I have installed FBReader, but don't know how to read the books with it.
Also, I installed the dolphin web browser and clicked on a few epub links but nothing happens, is there a way to get it to bring up those files in FBRreader?
droidly said:
Hi Scott,
I only have 1 device right now, so no need for sync, but I would be interested in how you can read your BN books with FBRreader. I have installed FBReader, but don't know how to read the books with it.
Also, I installed the dolphin web browser and clicked on a few epub links but nothing happens, is there a way to get it to bring up those files in FBRreader?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I haven't actually purchased any books from B&N, but assuming the books you purchased are DRM free, you should be able to just move them into the \sdcard\books directory, and they should appear in the FbReader library. I believe, by default, the B&N books go into the internal storage, in the B&N Downloads\Books directory. Use a file manager like estrong's, astro's, or root explorer to copy them.
Via your web browser, save the epub books to \sdcard\books (or move them there after they download), and they'll show up. I don't believe that you can associate any book reader with epub files, I don't think android supports that. You have to open the book with the app, not the app with the book.
Scott
I use FBReader on multiple devices and would be extremely interested in such an app!
Thanks for your interest in my syncing app.
One pretty major requirement for this app is that your devices have to be rooted. Android doesn't like one app accessing another app's data, so the only way I could do it was to use root privileges.
It's still in beta, but you can download a copy of it at:
http://sync.splitmatrix.net/apk/fbsync.apk
Currently v1.0.9.
After you install it, go into the settings (blue icon, or menu/settings), and enter an email (doesn't have to be an email, any unique string will work) and numeric pin # (this isn't secure, so don't use a pin you care about). The email/pin is just to uniquely identify you. You should use the same email/pin on each device.
On the same screen, you can choose to sync the actual book files as well as their positions. It only uploads/downloads the books when it needs them, so it may take a while the first time you sync, but after that it shouldn't take more than a minute MAX, my typical sync times for 90 books is about 5-10 seconds.
Obviously you should have Fbreader already installed, and you need to have ran it, and gone into the library (menu/library) at least once (this creates the fbreader app database).
Click the middle, orange icon, to begin the sync process. It first uploads, then downloads. It only updates the book's "place" on the web if it's farther ahead than the web's "place" for the book.
Please let me know of any issues you find, or any improvements you want.
Thanks,
Scott
Cool
I just tested and it does work as stated. One question though, where is it uploading the data too?
Personal website, sync.splitmatrix.net. if the app takes off, i'll figure out something more secure and permanent.
Scott
Interesting. I'll try it out. Thank you!
One thing to think about however, especially if you open this up to general usage, is that by uploading/downloading the book file itself rather than just the current read-to position, you could potentially run into copyright issues. There is reason to believe that this could fall under Fair Use, but past rulings on similar commercial services for other media have been inconclusive. That may be a can of worms you don't want to open.
I am not a lawyer, but I do play one on web forums.
One thing I would try would be saving it on Google's servers through IMAP or something like SMS Backup does. Then no need to have to pay for a server. Don't know if it is at all possible but just thought I would see how you liked it.
RoboRay said:
Interesting. I'll try it out. Thank you!
One thing to think about however, especially if you open this up to general usage, is that by uploading/downloading the book file itself rather than just the current read-to position, you could potentially run into copyright issues. There is reason to believe that this could fall under Fair Use, but past rulings on similar commercial services for other media have been inconclusive. That may be a can of worms you don't want to open.
I am not a lawyer, but I do play one on web forums.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, this is something I'm aware of. Not sure what I'm going to do about it yet. That's why it's a setting
Scott
qwerty017 said:
One thing I would try would be saving it on Google's servers through IMAP or something like SMS Backup does. Then no need to have to pay for a server. Don't know if it is at all possible but just thought I would see how you liked it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The server it's currently on is hosted by a friend of mine for free, so I'm not concerned about it at the moment. If thousands of people end up using this, then obviously I'll have to make some changes.
Scott
I wonder if there's a way to store and retrieve the sync data with each user's Dropbox or something...
RoboRay said:
I wonder if there's a way to store and retrieve the sync data with each user's Dropbox or something...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'd imagine that there is a way to do this, since programs like Titanium Backup support a dropbox interface.
If enough people think this would be a good feature to add, I can definitely look into it.
Scott
I'm just thinking that using each person's Dropbox would get you off the hook for not only server space and bandwidth, but also any potential copyright liability for book copies made by users synchronizing their files.
Valid points. I'll do some digging and see what it will take to implement the dropbox API in this app..
Thanks,
Scott
Edit: Updated first post with useful information - added download link.
Updated to v1.0.10 to fix a problem when used with the latest FBReader beta. Same URL as before:
Edit: Download the app off the market
Thanks,
Scott
This is a great app this is the missing link in fbreader. I hope you continue to support and enhance it.
Now that my archos tablet is rooted i can really enjoy it. I used to read my books on my phone and occasionally I still do.
Thx for the great work.
This looks like a dang good app. Since getting my nc i've quit using my evo for reading. This sync will bring joy back to my bathroom bbreaks at work!
Thanks for your kind words!
Since the last time I posted to this thread, I've added a dropbox interface to the program, and posted it to the Market (for Free of course!), so if you've downloaded the APK from the web, please re-install it from the market for the latest and greatest version.
Thanks again,
Scott
Oh, great! I'm checking out the Dropbox syncing now.
Edit: Works great!
If I may make another suggestion, you should post about your app at the MobileRead forum. I think you'll pick up a lot of users there.
Also, I know that the Android version of FBReader is different from the PC versions, but syncing with the Linux and Windows versions would be the icing on the cake. MobileRead might be a good place to find others wanting to help develop that capability
Guys, I'm on the verge of jumping ship from an iPhone 4 to a One X (when released). But my only problem may be the fact that I have a MobileMe account - Mail, Calendar, Contacts etc - which I really can not afford to lose.
I need the possible new HTC to be able to do all that the iPhone does with MobileMe on the iPhone - Push Mail, Cal and Contacts. Is this possible?
I know some people have setup GMail accounts instead, but due to business needs I really cannot afford to change accounts right now.
Sorry guys. Have I asked a mega stupid question that no one wants to answer? Or is it because no one knows?
It's not gonna sync with iCloud and going from iPhone to Android is like downgrading from a BMW to a broke down scooter.
MobileMe is completely proprietary in the sense that it will only work with apple products nothing else, email has a chance of working but it will be fairly stripped down as it's not gmail. Also ignore the troll above me, not allowing you to use something you pay for on anything you want is just another one of the many many reasons to leave apple products.
cordell507 said:
MobileMe is completely proprietary in the sense that it will only work with apple products nothing else, email has a chance of working but it will be fairly stripped down as it's not gmail. Also ignore the troll above me, not allowing you to use something you pay for on anything you want is just another one of the many many reasons to leave apple products.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You don't pay for iCloud, it's free. There is no reason to leave Apple for Android seeing how the OS is a fragmented mess. You have a better chance of winning a pottery then getting a timely update from an OEM.
Thanks for the replies guys
I've been doing some research and have had some help from other places, and it seems that MobileMe can be sync'ed but with the assistance of other desktop apps.
If these work well, then I will take the leap.
Alex2792, I would have agreed with your "downgrade" comment a year ago. But having seen some of these new Android phones in full flow... well, no restrictions, far cheaper, far more modifiable - it makes sense to
how i got contacts from mobileme
this is my solution.
1. login to mobileme
2. go to address book
3. select all entries in your address book
4. under setting select export contact
5. connect your HTC phone to your mac in disk mode (found under setting within the connect to PC menu)
6. once connected, open finder and copy your vcards.vcf file from your mac to the mounted phone's downloads directory
7. after copy is completed, disconnect phone
8. restart phone (I had to do this for the storage device to find the file)
9. open contacts on HTC phone
10. open contacts settings (top right corner)
11. select to import contact from phone storage
12. import should begin and all contact will be found under under in contacts under "phone"
a status window popped up showing the percentage complete until all 350 contacts were added. I got pics, email addresses, and names without issue.
HTH
chris
I really don't understand this fragmented crap.
I have a 2 yearold HTC EVO4G which I've been completely happy with. It runs android 2.3.5, without any noticable bugs. I have decent battery life (newer phones have better due to better displays, and not using a 60nm chip), can run any app on the market, and can do all sorts of things that I can't do on iphone (such as change a freaking default browser). I use the go launcher, which is freaking pretty, and has all kinds of new fanciful effects. I don't even have the original launcher installed anymore. My contacts, photos and videos are automagically uploaded and backed up on google plus, dropbox, my desktop, and my netbook.
I have a very good experience on my "fragmented" phone.
Ignoring the obvious troll, I too have switched from android to iphone back to android and then iphone and am back to android. Since google backs up all your app data (who needs call logs backed up?) and there is an app to backup your texts, well I don't see any reason to blast google.
Also, do some research, there are some desktop appear that can help you switch everything over. Although it sounds like you've already done that.
For instance:
Dropbox will automatically upload your pictures to yourself and every device that has your account installed.
Google backs up all apps just like iOs.
You can most certainly have push email with android that is not gmail based. There are a ton of email clients in the play store.
sent from my nook tablet or sgh-i777, using string
Hi,
a friend of mine bought a few days ago a Samsung Galaxy Tab 7" to manage his clients (he's a doctor).
He started to build his contact library (he doesn't have an android phone and no gmail contacts) adding name, surname, eventually mail and phone number and in the "Note" field he wrote all the note he'd taken. BUT this field has a characters' limit, and he can't add even a letter anymore (for the most visited client of course).
I tried to search for an app for this purpose but I can't find anything. I don't even search ONLY an app, it can be enough another method using the in-build feature of the tablet and android.
I searched for some CRM app, but most of them are ugly (since it's not a power user the more simple and clean is the better) and not optimized for a tablet. I found Insightly, but it's only online, and if he does'nt have a wifi network around he can't, not only record the new data, but also access to the old ones! They MUST be always available.
I thought about a simple folder + text file in G Drive, but these are only online too. Dropbox, too.
If it can interact with the G Mail contacts (the Note field is very useful at this) it would be wonderful, otherwise he'll build up his library with his contacts.
How can I do to have these data always on the tablet (cloud sync is not absolutely necessary)??? Any idea for an app or an alternative method?
Thanks!
nobody??
He bought a tablet to use for work, without any idea on how he would use it for work or if it would even do what he wanted? If he throws money around like that, why not recommend him to get an app written for his company and it's needs. There are many app developers who design and write custom apps for clients.