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Convert .REG Registry data into BAT, VBS or AU3 scripts with Reg Converter

Publié: avril 5, 2014, 9:32pm CEST par Mike Williams

REG files can be a very convenient way to import Registry data. Double-click them, Regedit launches, reads their contents and adds them to your Registry, all in just a few seconds.

There can still be problems, though. Your system may have blocked REG files for security reasons. You might want to import the data as part of an unattended installation, or maybe you just need more control of the import process.

Reg Converter can help by taking a source REG file, and converting it to BAT (a batch file), VBS (VBScript) or au3 (AutoIt) scripts. The data may then be imported on any system which supports those formats, no file association or Regedit.exe required. And you're free to edit the scripts, too, adding whatever other actions you might find useful.

Using the program is generally as easy as dragging and dropping the source .reg file onto Reg Converter, choosing your output format and clicking "Convert". The batch file or script code appears in the main Reg Converter window, and you can save it to disk (or copy it to the clipboard) with a click.

The process can be a little more complicated if you're exporting a .bat file. It will ask whether you want to import your data using Reg.exe or Regedit.exe, and ask you to choose between various settings. Some of these are quite technical -- there's an issue when converting Unicode SZ values, for example -- but, for the most part, the default options work just fine.

Once the conversion is complete, you're able to enter the source destination into any system by running your saved script (as long as that format is supported, anyway).

And if you need to run the program regularly, Reg Converter can also add "Convert to bat/ vbs/ au3" options to the REG file right-click menu, automatically saving the results to a file, or the clipboard.

On balance, Reg Converter is a handy tool which makes it easy to transform REG data into something more flexible. It does need to be used with care, though. In particular, don’t try to bypass .REG security restrictions unless a) you've set them in the first place, and b) you know without question that the source file is safe.
Brendan Eich resigning from Mozilla shows both the good and bad sides of the web

Publié: avril 5, 2014, 2:31pm CEST par Alan Buckingham

It has been mere days since Brendan Eich stepped down as CEO of Mozilla. It was one of the shortest-lived tenures in history, but it didn’t have to be that way. I’ll spare you the details -- they have spewed across the internet, ad-nauseum. Suffice to say that his views did not meet with that of the technorati at large.

BetaNews was one of the first sites to run the story about a pair of developers boycotting the browser over a perceived difference in ideals. A firestorm ensued, but also a healthy debate. Until now, I have kept quiet throughout this situation. However with the problems now seemingly resolved, and (perhaps or perhaps not) justice done, then it is time to speak my piece.

First, I approved and ran the original story, a decision I did not take lightly. I had many discussions with the author over it, attempts to make sure that the site nailed everything. But the story goes much deeper than what appeared on the surface. The story was not intended to call into question beliefs, the story was about the perceived wrong and the developers pulling their apps in protest over it.

The story of Mozilla and Brendan Eich, in large part, portrays the internet in a rather general sort of way. There is the bad side, the one with doubters, haters and trolls. There is the good part, where people express legitimate opinions and feelings on the issues at hand.

There have been many discussions of late about a free and open internet -- while much of that swirls around net neutrality, and accusations about Netflix being forced to pay a "toll" to Comcast, much more is about freedom of speech. Only last week we were concerned over Turkey banning this most basic right -- a decision that was overridden by a court quite quickly.

But, as my colleague Brian Fagioli stated, "While I disagree with Eich's perceived stance on marriage equality, I defend his right to express it". I think that sums up the feelings of many.

We live in a world where rights are often taken for granted, and infractions are perceived as slaps in the face or attempts to take these freedoms from us. We forget that others, with differing views, have those same rights. We don't know for sure what Mr. Eich truly believes -- he avoided the same sex marriage question in his statements, which only contributed to the problem.

However, the internet held a discussion and forced a decision. Rightly or wrongly, the masses played judge and jury on this, and in the end there was no alternative solution. Majority rules, and the state of Brendan Eich’s reputation would have precluded his ability to head the company and command the respect of employees and customers.

Now I reach the end, and I shall leave you with something you will not have found in all of the other stories around the web, regarding this sordid mess. At the time BetaNews ran the original post, I also reached out to the developer in question -- Hampton Catlin. He provided much information, some of which he said we were free to quote. I'll leave much of that dark -- he doesn't want any more publicity, but there's a soundbite from our conversation that I'd like to share with you.

"This really was a personal statement of boycott, and it seems to be getting carried as if we are organizing a boycott or that we think Mozilla is evil or that we think Brendan Eich is the devil. None of those things are true. We just were hurt as developers who were committing our time and energy to their platform, that they would go pick someone with an unresolved anti-same-sex-marriage controversy. If he had apologized years ago, this would be a non-issue".

Image Credit: Danomyte / Shutterstock
The most popular stories on BetaNews this past week: March 30 -- April 5

Publié: avril 5, 2014, 10:01am CEST par Mark Wilson

It's difficult to deny Microsoft at least some of the limelight this week as the Build developer conference generated some interesting news. Bringing Windows version numbers in line with each other, Windows Phone 8.1 was finally revealed, complete with a notification center and Siri-like Cortana. The highly anticipated Windows 8.1 Update (which you may have heard something about) was official unveiled and given a launch date of April 8. Wayne, for one, liked what he saw.

Microsoft came over all open source, making the Roslyn compiler as well as WinJS freely available. Brian was pleased with the tech giant's latest moves, proclaiming Microsoft is now back. Build also gave us a sneaky glimpse of an upcoming, but as yet unnamed, version of Windows that features the return of the Start menu -- all of this chopping and changing is getting confusing. Maybe next on the list of things to do with Windows will be getting rid of those apps and features that should have been killed some time ago.

While Build may have been the big event of the week, it was also the exciting named World Backup Day which has the aim of encouraging computer users to safeguard their files. If you have considered using Dropbox as an online backup medium, you may have been concerned to learn that the company was issuing DMCA notices to users about files they had stored privately. But Dropbox was quick to respond, explaining that an automated system tracked down duplicate files on the network, and assuring users that their documents were not being looked at.

Another big date this week was April Fools' day. Traditionally the day on which all sorts of practical jokes are played, Brian was far from impressed by one of Google's offerings -- and then a couple of days later, much the same feature was unveiled as being genuine. Suggestions that the US government could save a fortune by changing the font used on printouts were not a joke, but some people did question the amount of money that could saved.

If a recent report is correct, more than half of people surveyed said they felt that the web was an unsafe place to voice opinions -- I'd better watch out, in that case! The deadline approacheth for the end of support for XP, and while many people are resolving to stick with their preferred operating system, it seems that those who are moving away from the aging software are migrating to Windows 7 rather than Windows 8. Little wonder, then, that Windows 8.x is faring so badly.

In security news, Internet Explorer was found to be the web browser that offers the best protection against social engineering attacks, but this will be of little consolation to victims of ransomware which is becoming increasingly common. Neither is it much help for owners of routers that are vulnerable to attack.

The mobile market is one that is dominated by a handful of names, but in Europe it is Motorola that is starting to gain ground. In an interesting twist, BlackBerry announced that it was no longer in love with T-Mobile and that its handset would no longer be available through the mobile operator. Turkey continued its attack on freedom of access to the internet by intercepting Google's Public DNS. Whether it was a matter of freedom of speed, gay rights, the vocal majority winning, or someone just looking to save face, after the furore surrounding Brendan Eich, the CEO of Mozilla, stepped down from his position at the top.

There were also a couple of birthdays this week. Microsoft was founded an astonishing 39 years ago, and Google celebrated the tenth anniversary of Gmail... and... that's your lot! Time to relax with a nice glass of something strong.

Oh... one last thing. If you have a Nest Protect smoke alarm, you might want to invest in an alternative. Safety concerns have led to the device being taken off sale and a key feature has been remotely disabled. Maybe a double is in order...

Join us for more of the same over the next seven days.

Image Credit: vinz89/Shutterstock
Logitech Bluetooth Audio Adapter adds wireless connectivity to old gear

Publié: avril 5, 2014, 4:23am CEST par Brian Fagioli

Bluetooth audio is all the rage nowadays. It can be found in headphones, speakers, automobiles and more. However, this does not mean that non-Bluetooth audio gear is obsolete -- quite the contrary. In fact, there is a very good chance that your older equipment offers better sound and features. It is a shame to discard that tech for a lack of a wireless connection.

Luckily, you don't have to. You see, many manufacturers offer solutions to this dilemma, such as an analog to Bluetooth converter box. The problem is, many of them are unattractive and too large to truly blend in. After all, you do not need to see the thing; ideally you want it out of sight, yet easy to access. Don't worry, Logitech has you covered with the all-new Logitech Bluetooth Audio Adapter.

"In the past few years, Bluetooth technology has essentially become ubiquitous in the world of speakers -- regardless if they're desktop, mobile or home entertainment speakers. But, these hot new products can potentially put a little dent in the ole wallet. Fret no more! Now you can enjoy Bluetooth connectivity without worrying about breaking the bank with the Logitech Bluetooth Audio Adapter", says Logitech.

The company further explains, "with this adapter, you can quickly and easily turn your favorite speakers into a wireless sound system for your new smartphone and tablet. You can use it with PC speakers, home stereo systems and even A/V receivers. Simply attach the adapter to your speakers using a 3.5 mm audio input or standard RCA connection, pair your smartphone or tablet with the press of a button and you’re good to go. With multipoint Bluetooth connectivity, you can simultaneously pair two devices to powered speakers from up to 50 feet away".

Again, this device is not a new concept; heck, it is not even the first such product from Logitech. However, it is extremely small and good-looking, which makes it an attractive purchase for consumers. Besides the very low $39.99 price, the multipoint connectivity is the real selling point. Having two devices connected at once makes it a fun option for couples, as they can take turns relaxing and playing music from their device -- very cool.

Will you buy it? Tell me in the comments.
Amazon Dash is a magic wand for your food-shopping

Publié: avril 5, 2014, 1:25am CEST par Brian Fagioli
Magic is pretty awesome. When Harry Potter uses his magic wand to cast spells or fight evil, he is pretty much the coolest guy ever. However, Mr. Potter is just make believe. Still, it is fun to imagine having magical powers too. Imagine waving your wand, saying "hocus-pocus" and a gallon of milk or a bag of grapes appears on your counter. Well, that is no longer make-believe, it is reality.

Yes, Amazon has created a magic wand of sorts called the Dash, which enables you to order groceries to your home, through the Amazon Fresh program. Hopefully it is not available in Colorado, because if it is, the company may be overwhelmed by people ordering Doritos and Oreo cookies!

According to Amazon, "Dash connects to your home Wi-Fi network and works directly with your AmazonFresh account. Say or scan items into your Dash, and then view the list on your desktop or mobile device to purchase and schedule delivery". In other words, it is a magic wand, but instead of magic, it uses technology. You can use it to scan bar-codes, but even cooler, you can verbally tell the device the item that you desire.

The company touts the following features:
- Simply say it or scan it -- add items to your shopping list from anywhere in your home.
- Easy to use for the whole family -- even the kids can help.
- Add items as you go -- shop effortlessly throughout your day.
- Never forget an item again -- Dash remembers so you don't have to.
Sadly, the device is invite-only at this time. To order it, you must enter a unique code, which Amazon has emailed to the chosen ones. It is just as well, seeing that the Amazon Fresh program is very limited anyway. So, for the time being, the closest most will get to it, is seeing it in the below video. Check it out and tell me what you think.