Shortwave: portable keyword searches Jul07 '08

Shortwave is similar to Firefox keyword searches, except as a JavaScript bookmark, it is browser independent. This is useful if you use many different browsers, or just wish to have a central list of functioning keyword bookmarks.

Although, I don't like having to manually click on the bookmark before typing in my keyword search, but I suppose I could get used to it. The nice part about Firefox keyword search is that it allows you to use the address bar, which is where you'd type in your URL anyway.

However, I like the idea of having my keyword searches accessible regardless of the current browser I am using. In a way, this makes my keyword bookmarks portable and future-proof.

Also, it's an absolute must for iPhone/iPod touch users. It will save time typing, as well as reduce page loading time over the slow EDGE network, by bringing you directly to the search results page, rather than first going to the search page, then the results.

Create your own custom Shortwave

Creating your own Shortwave is easy. Just download the default waves.txt file, edit it with your own bookmarks, then upload to a web server of your own.

Go back to the Shortwave home page, and paste the URL to your waves.txt file into the box.

Sync your iPhone/iPod bookmarks

On your desktop Safari, drag the Shortwave bookmark to your bookmarks toolbar. In iTunes, sync your bookmarks to your iPhone or iPod touch.

You'll then have a JavaScript-prompt bookmark saved on your mobile device, ready for your keyword searches.

Categories: Firefox , JavaScript , Search

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matthom is published and produced by Matt Thommes - an independent publishing enthusiast, mobile blogger, content creator, informative writer, web developer from a suburb of Chicago. Never one to conform, Matt intends to promote the effect the web has on our lives, in an effort to intensify, instruct, and clarify all that is happening around us.