There are plenty of DVD and CD managers out there but there are few that allow you to organise DVDs, CDs, DivX files and even videotapes in one easy to browse and search database.

Since I'd rather have my video and audio collection all under one program, I quite liked Ant Movie Catalog despite the weird name (it's got nothing to do with cataloguing movies about Ants of which I can think of only one anyway - Antz). There are several reasons why this database appeals.

First of all, it's completely free and the source code is open to modification by it's users who are brought together by the program's forum. Second is it's simplicity - it's not bloated in any way (which these kind of programs tend to have a habit of being) so searching and navigating through your collection either by format, genre, alphabetically or year is extremely easy and fast. Thirdly, it takes a lot of the hard work out of cataloging your collection because it imports information about your media from the internet using scripts. These include scripts for the IMDB, DVDFR (a French DVD website), Allocine /a French film site) and Culturalia (a Spanish multimedia site). In addition, it can store all information in two formats - either binary or XML - the latter makes it possible to export your collection to Excel and other database applications.

On the downside, if you do start adding lots of album and film covers to the database, it can start to slow down a bit but there is the option of linking to external pictures rather than importing them. You're also supposed to be allowed to display various statistical data relating to your multimedia collection in graphical format although this seems limited to just pie charts. Nevertheless, it gives you a quick and easy read-out based on ratings, genre, date added etc.

Lightweight, easy to use and covering just about any conceivable media you might own, Ant Movie Catalog is an easy and free way to bring your entire collection together without messing about with multiple applications.

As my workmate and friend James reminded us a couple of days ago, Euro 2008 is just around the corner. I guess he and my other colleagues in the office will be happy to have soccer games every other day and discuss over the referee's unfair decision about that borderline offside in the last minute of the match... but certainly not me.

I don't like football at all, which means that during the next couple of weeks I'll have to look for different ways to amuse myself. However I'm sure software will be very helpful in finding alternatives to Euro 2008:

• Movies or TV series - I think I'll grab hold of my Ant Movie Catalog movie database to watch a few good old classics again. And if I grow tired of cinema, I can always use TED to get the latest episodes of my favorite TV show.
• Reading - What about eBooks? There are literally thousands to choose from and plus you can easily take them anywhere with your mobile device.
• Exercising - The fact that I don't like football doesn't mean I can't enjoy other sports. This can be the perfect time to start working out and manage my results with SportsTracker.
• Traveling - High budgets only: run away from Euro 2008 with a good traveling guide like the Schmap ones, also available for the iPhone. Don't forget to check the weather forecast before leaving!
• Games - Probably the best software alternative out there! Just check out the impressive games collection at Softonic and choose the one you like most.
• Other hobbies - There are dozens to choose: from collecting stamps to sudokus, including also crafts like painting and cross-stitching.

Despite being about 30 years old now, Harry Potter continues to find himself stuck in the education system. In his latest outing, the weedy wand-waver must defeat the nasty Lord Voldemort (again) using his special mystical powers. Harry is visibly drained during much of the film, so we've decided to put a list of downloads together to help him to take his mind off the freaks that keep bullying him.

Magic Academy - If you're getting fed up with Hogwarts and fancy moving to a new school then check out the Magic Academy. The academy represented in the fun puzzle game is a little like yours - only a lot less scary.

Harry Potter Screensaver - From what we understand, you don't see a lot of Hermione and Ron in the latest film. If you're missing their company then simply install this screensaver featuring you and your crew.

Splendid City Lite - Keep on top of your Quidditch team's fixtures by downloading and installing this sports management tool.

Ant Movie Catalog - Although it's probably a bit vain if you do, if you're hoarding your growing back catalogue of DVDs under your bed and keep losing them, then get hold of Ant Movie Catalog. It's got nothing to do with ants but it will help you keep your film collection organized.

My Star World - You're obviously a big fan of all things mystical so why not try your hand at a new ancient discipline. This astrology program might help you predict the ending of the next book. Just don't tell anyone.