Hi Caryl Anne - Thank you ever so much for your responses.
I am wondering....is there a machine out there that can access the internet, as a computer, to download embroidery designs from the net? without needing the computer at all?
Kim
wow Kim and Donna, I did not know of this wireless connection used for both Phaff and Viking machines. I'm glad you asked for the information. is this what you found? is there more to learn about these amazing machines. I do not even want to know what their full capacity is, I'd just be dreaming of a lottery win. LOL
Compatibility: PHAFF and Viking USB Embroidery MachinesModel: StitchLink SimpleThe world's first and only wireless connectivity solution for embroidery machines, the StitchLink Simple Family lets you:
Now, if I read this carefully (and I think I am)...this device enables you to transfer data (the design) from your embroidery software on your pc/laptop to your embroidery machine wirelessly (without using a usb stick, etc.).
This is great... BUT, it does NOT enable your embroidery/sewing machine to access the internet directly...which I think is what Kim was looking for. I may be wrong, but that's the way I am reading this...
Winthrop, WA
I believe you are right Donna B, I think Kim is looking for direct access if it available on a HOME machine I hadn't even heard of these units, but then my machine is a Janome (2003) OLD in the way of technology.. lol Plus the unit is only made for these high end machines, The viking was new in 2010 I'm not sure about the Phaff. At any rate, I do not find anything that says Internet accessible.
That's what I clarified with Kim earlier...to be sure I was understanding what she was looking for.
I have two machines...both Berninas - a 2001 200E & a 2011 830LE (I live over 110 miles from the nearest dealer, so I really need to keep a back-up machine.)
Personally IMHO, while this device is interesting, I wouldn't be interested in it. I like using a USB stick for storage and taking designs between my software (on my pc/laptop) and my machine. I like to keep my machine's memory really clean (uncluttered) and only save designs there on a very temporary basis. I use my software and USB sticks for long-term storage. I'll have to admit that I absolutely hated the old disk drive attachments to load designs from the software to the machine! I was very, very happy when they started using the USB sticks... I really truly was doing a happy dance!!!! The USB sticks have been the answer to my dreams for storage and ease of transfer, and I can't imagine what would be an improvement for me in regard to transferring designs and/or storage.
Also personally, I would not be too thrilled having a sewing/embroidery machine that downloaded directly from the internet without going through auxiliary software on a pc/laptop. Now, I am still learning all the ins and outs of the Bernina 830 and v6 Software, but the 830 uses the .exp design format...which actually has 3 separate files that combine to make the design. The v6 Software takes the .art designs and converts them to the .exp format (with the required 3 files). I've noticed a lot of designers are not selling the .exp format yet - but I can get the .art format and convert it...if I go through my v6 software. So, another reason for me using the software first.
And, as I said before, I like to keep my sewing/embroidery machine's memory squeaky clean and uncluttered. If I were downloading direct to my machine, the memory would end up with all kinds of garbage. Remember, this is just MHO...
never thought about this aspect If I were downloading direct to my machine, the memory would end up with all kinds of garbage. i use 32mb compact flash cards I have 8 to date and I have collections for customers on several, one for just loading a single design for a project and a few just for say shirts, baby stuff, quilting and ITH designs I make all the time. My machine has no designs saved in it's folders. Oh well that is not true I have saved my 'glass sippers' design because I make them to send to customers with the bill and my card.I have a USB port as well as direct to computer link but I really like the small cards, the machine reads them super quick. I love that you have two machines, a back up is great, I have my second in layaway right will get it home in February. I got a great deal from my dealer, he had a trade in Janome11000 upgraded to the SE. I had that machine as a loaner while my baby was in the shop this summer, nearly 2 months but I was not complaining, It has much larger hoops. and a bunch of great features. I am looking forward to having both baby boys working hard.. lol I' will post some pictures of the 'boys' together later in the Janome group.
Donna I wish you and your family a great Happy Christmas and a wonderful New Year. Kim I would love to see the article you are researching. What mag is it being published?
Thanks Caryl Anne and a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and yours also...
Hope you enjoy your new Janome when you get it in February!