Freshtechs

Sony VAIO VGN-CR305E/L 14.1" Laptop (1.6 GHz Intel Pentium Dual Core T2330 Processor, 1 GB RAM, 200 GB Hard Drive, Vista Premium) Blue

2008-08-01T19:07:00.000-07:00

Step out and be seen with the portable, powerful and incredibly beautiful VAIO(R) CR notebook. Featuring a stunning 14.1" widescreen LCD with XBRITE-ECO LCD technology, this thin-and-light fashion statement is an astonishing sight to behold. Backed by the Windows Vista Home Premium operating system and Intel Pentium Dual-Core processor, this lightning-fast, super-powerful mobile notebook is slim, lightweight, and packed with entertainment and design extras. From a built-in web cam and AV controls to its unique paint colors and comfortable, easy-to-clean keyboard, the remarkable VAIO(R) CR notebook delivers entertainment, power and pizzazz. 14.1 WXGA (1280 x 800) XBRITE-ECO Display Mobile Intel Graphics Media Accelerator X3100 with up to 358MB Video Memory Built-in Webcamera and microphone DVD+-R/RW Drive with Double Layer Intel PRO/Wireless 4965 802.11A/B/G/N 10/100 Ethernet Card Reader - Memory Stick(R) Duo with MG, Secure Digital (SD) 1 ExpressCard Slot (34 Slot) 3 USB 2.0, 1 Headphone out; 1 Microphone-in, 1 VGA, 1 TV-Out (S-Video), 1 IEEE 1394, 1 RJ-11, 1 RJ-45 Approximate Unit Dimensions - 13.2 (W) x 9.8 (D) x 1.67 (H) Approximate Unit Weight - 5.49lbs.

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Apple iPod touch 8 GB

2008-08-01T00:54:00.000-07:00

(not the iPhone) With the Apple iPod touch, Apple has married the iPhone's revolutionary multi-touch interface to their popular digital media player. So instead of a Click Wheel, you just use your fingers to flick through your music, photos, and video. Two fingers can be used in a pinching or spreading motion as well, which zooms in and out of photos and web pages. That's right, the iPod touch is the first iPod to offer web access. It does this via built-in Wi-Fi support. There's even a special iTunes Wi-Fi Store, so you can browse and purchase new music and video while you're on the road. The latest iPod touch now offers a suite of new applications, including email, maps, and handy widgets for weather, notes, and stocks. The new iPod touch also features a customizable home screen that lets you rearrange buttons and create your own Web Clips. Ports - Dock Connector & Stereo Minijack Connects to a PC or Mac through USB (using the dock connector) 802.11b/g Wi-Fi Wireless / Safari web browser Charge Time - about 3 hours (1.5 hours fast charge to 80% capacity) Audio Support - AAC (16 to 320 Kbps), Protected AAC (from iTunes Store), MP3 (16 to 320 Kbps), MP3 VBR, Audible (formats 2, 3, & 4), Apple Lossless, WAV, & AIFF Photo Support - Syncs iPod-viewable photos in JPEG, BMP, GIF, TIFF, PSD (Mac only), and PNG formats Video Support - H.264 video, up to 1.5 Mbps, 640 by 480 pixels, 30 frames per second, Low-Complexity version of the H.264 Baseline Profile with AAC-LC audio up to 160 Kbps, 48kHz, stereo audio in. m4v,. mp4, and. mov file formats; H.264 video, up to 2.5 Mbps, 640 by 480 pixels, 30 frames per second, Baseline Profile up to Level 3.0 with AAC-LC audio up to 160 Kbps, 48kHz, stereo audio in. m4v,. mp4, and. mov file formats; MPEG-4 video, up to 2.5 Mbps, 640 by 480 pixels, 30 frames per second, Simple Profile with AAC-LC audio up to 160 Kbps, 48kHz, stereo audio in. m4v,. mp4, and. mov file formats Unit Dimension
Music
If a picture says a thousand words, think of what all the album art in your collection might say. With Cover Flow on iPod touch, flick through your music to find the album you want to hear. When you do, just tap the cover to flip it over and display a track list. Another tap starts the music. Even view the lyrics while you're listening to the track.
Video
The 3.5-inch display gives you video like you've never seen on a portable device. Watch your favorite movie or rental from the iTunes Store. Catch up on TV shows anywhere. Enjoy video podcasts. Play music videos. All using multi-touch technology. With a tap, bring up onscreen controls to play/pause and view by chapter. Turn your iPod touch to switch between widescreen or full screen.

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Cleaning My Computer

2008-07-30T22:26:00.000-07:00

You can save your computer maintenance cost if you clean your computer on the regular basis. This will improve the cooling and performance of the computer components. Your computer components could damage, if you do not keep it clean on periodically basis, because dust is the main cause to heat up your system and heat link to hardware failure.

Never place your computer on the ground, always use computer table or shelf for this purpose.

To clean computer case first unplugs your system power from the electrical outlet. Remove all cables and connectors from the back side of your computer.

Now blow the air around all the hardware components and keeping away your blower nozzle 4 to 5 inches away from main board components. You can use vacuum cleaner also for this purpose but compressed air is the better solution to clean a system.

At the end using lightly dampened cloth or spray any cleaning fluids on the computer case and use paper towel to dry it.

Never clean inside computer components or other circuit board with damp or wet cloth.

Always be careful to eat or drink around the computer.

Apple MacBook MB403LL/A 13.3" Laptop (2.4 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo Processor, 2 GB RAM, 160 GB Hard Drive) White

2008-07-30T22:04:00.000-07:00

Stylishly and intelligently designed for your on-the-go digital lifestyle, Apple's MacBook is the perfect confluence of affordability, innovation, and powerful computing. This latest iteration of the MacBook line (model MB403LL/A) gets a boost of speed from Intel's latest 45-nanometer Penryn series processors, which also helps to reduce power requirements and save on battery life. You'll enjoy quick and nimble multitasking thanks to the 2.4 GHz Core 2 Duo processor, and this MacBook also features a 160 GB hard drive and 2 GB of installed RAM (which can be upgraded to 4 GB). The 13.3-inch glossy widescreen display provides the perfect combination of pixels and portability, and the integrated 802.11n Wi-Fi LAN enables computing freedom from wires and compatibility with older 802.11b/g routers as well as the faster throughput of Apple's Airport Extreme.

Measuring 1.08 inches thin and weighing only 5.0 pounds, the MacBook cuts a slim profile on any desk (or in any backpack or briefcase).
Measuring a mere 1.08 inches thin and weighing in at only 5.0 pounds, the MacBook cuts a slim profile on any desk (or in any backpack or briefcase). A durable polycarbonate shell in white keeps it ready for the rough and tumble of everyday life. It also offers a unique keyboard design that sits flush against the bed for a sleeker, lower profile. Other standard Apple "extras" includes a built-in iSight video camera and Apple's magnetically connected MagSafe power adapter, which safely disconnects when under strain.

It's pre-loaded with Apple's Mac OS X 10.5 Leopard operating system, which enables easy backup of your most important data via Time Machine, a redesigned desktop that helps eliminate clutter. It also comes with the iLife '08 suite of applications--including iPhoto, iMovie, Garageband, and iTunes--and the newest version of the fast-loading Safari web browser. Other hardware features include an 8x combo Superdrive (for burning dual-layer DVDs as well as CDs), built-in Gigabit Ethernet for high-speed networking, Bluetooth 2.0+EDR (Enhanced Data Rate), a FireWire 400 port, DVI video output, and Intel GMA X3100 graphics processor with 144 MB of shared memory.

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Nokia 7310 Supernova (Unlocked, Intl. Version) No U.S. Warranty Blue/Green

2008-07-30T21:52:00.000-07:00

Product Includes Nokia 7310 Supernova BlueGreen (unlocked) Nokia Battery BL-4CT Nokia Compact Charger AC-3 Nokia Stereo Headset HS-47 Xpress-onTM cover (Wasabi green) User Guide Product Overview The Nokia 7310 Supernova is a slim and sleek phone with Xpress-On covers etched with 3D textured designs. Available colors include Steel Blue plus a second cover in Wasabi Green or Candy Pink. Five cover options will be available in Mushroom Silver, Plum Jam, Electric Blue, Yellow Mellow and Espresso Brown colors. The 7310 Supernova offers a built-in 2.0-megapixel camera with 4x digital zoom and TV out for image sharing, instant messaging and playing the preinstalled games on TV. An FM RDS radio and an MP3 music player provide music on the road.

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Kindle: Amazon's New Wireless Reading Device

2008-07-30T21:37:00.000-07:00

Three years ago, we set out to design and build an entirely new class of device—a convenient, portable reading device with the ability to wirelessly download books, blogs, magazines, and newspapers. The result is Amazon Kindle.

We designed Kindle to provide an exceptional reading experience. Thanks to electronic paper, a revolutionary new display technology, reading Kindle’s screen is as sharp and natural as reading ink on paper—and nothing like the strain and glare of a computer screen. Kindle is also easy on the fingertips. It never becomes hot and is designed for ambidextrous use so both "lefties" and "righties" can read comfortably at any angle for long periods of time.

We wanted Kindle to be completely mobile and simple to use for everyone, so we made it wireless. No PC and no syncing needed. Using the same 3G network as advanced cell phones, we deliver your content using our own wireless delivery system, Amazon Whispernet. Unlike WiFi, you’ll never need to locate a hotspot. There are no confusing service plans, yearly contracts, or monthly wireless bills—we take care of the hassles so you can just read.

With Whispernet, you can be anywhere, think of a book, and get it in one minute. Similarly, your content automatically comes to you, wherever you are. Newspaper subscriptions are delivered wirelessly each morning. Most magazines arrive before they hit newsstands. Haven’t read the book for tomorrow night’s book club? Get it in a minute. Finished your book in the airport? Download the sequel while you board the plane. Whether you’re in the mood for something serious or hilarious, lighthearted or studious, Kindle delivers your spontaneous reading choices on demand.

And because we know you can't judge a book by its cover, Kindle lets you download and read the beginning of books for free. This way, you can try it out—if you like it, simply buy and download with 1-Click, right from your Kindle, and continue reading. Want to try a newspaper as well? All newspaper subscriptions start with a risk-free two-week trial.

Kindle’s paperback size and expandable memory let you travel light with your library. With the freedom to download what you want, when you want, we hope you’ll never again find yourself stuck without a great read.

We're very proud to introduce Amazon Kindle and we hope you like it as much as we do.

- The Amazon Kindle Team

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Apple's iTunes hits 5 billion mark

2008-06-19T09:16:00.000-07:00

The path to world domination is paved in round numbers, especially big ones like this: 5 billion.

The face of the iTunes store.

(Credit: Apple)That's the number of songs that have been purchased and downloaded from the iTunes Store, Apple said Thursday. (Actually, for the record, the press release says "over 5 billion.")

That shouldn't be surprising, of course. Apple's iTunes store has long overshadowed the rest of the music download scene. Rivals have launched many an assault, but even e-commerce competitors as savvy as Amazon.com still face quite an uphill battle--sales of songs at 9-month-old AmazonMP3, the No. 2 digital music store, are only a tenth the volume of those at iTunes, according to market researcher NPD Group.

Apple is, in fact, the largest music retailer in the United States, period, having pushed past Wal-mart Stores earlier this year. And it seems to be making a healthy profit from its iTunes operations. No wonder many a politician is toying with the notion of taxing digital downloads.

The company also said on Tuesday that iTunes customers are toting up purchases and rentals of more than 50,000 movies per day.

Apple iPod nano 4 GB Silver (3rd Generation)

2008-02-19T20:32:00.000-08:00

An anodized aluminum top and polished stainless steel back. Five eye-catching colors. A larger, brighter display with the most pixels per inch of any Apple display, ever. iPod nano stirs up visual effects from the outside in.
And it'll wow you for hours. Play up to 5 hours of video or up to 24 hours of audio on a single charge. All that staying power and a wafer-thin, 6.5-mm profile makes iPod nano one small big attraction.

Cover FlowIf a picture says a thousand words, think of what all the album art in your collection might say. With Cover Flow on iPod nano, you can flip through your music to find the album you want to hear. Use the Click Wheel to browse music by album cover, then select an album to flip it over and see the track list.

MusicUse the Click Wheel to adjust volume, navigate songs, browse in Cover Flow, or explore the Music menu by playlist, artist, album, song, genre, composer, and more. Want to mix things up? Click Shuffle Songs. iPod nano makes your music look as good as it sounds, thanks to its bright color display.
MoviesBuy movies from the iTunes Store and you can sync them to your iPod nano to watch anywhere, anytime. Up to 5 hours of video playback means you can watch two movies back to back. And for your viewing pleasure, the 320-by-240-pixel display--with a whopping 204 pixels per inch--is 65 percent brighter than before.
TV ShowsThere's always something good on iPod nano. Browse thousands of episodes of your favorite TV shows on the iTunes Store, buy them for just $1.99 each, then sync them to your iPod nano. Watch last night's episodes this morning, or buy a whole TV series and play a pocket-size marathon.

PodcastsThe iTunes Store features thousands of free video and audio podcasts, including indie favorites and offerings from such big names as ABC News, Comedy Central, ESPN, PBS, NPR, and many more. Browse and subscribe to podcasts, then sync them to your iPod nano. You can even play video podcasts on TV using an optional Apple component or composite AV cable.
AudiobooksThe digital shelves of the iTunes Store are stocked with thousands of audiobooks--including exclusives like the entire Harry Potter series--so you can catch up on your reading wherever iPod nano takes you. iPod nano even recognizes where you left off reading and bookmarks your place.
GamesPut hours of fun at your fingertips. iPod nano comes with three games--Vortex, iQuiz, and Klondike--and you can download more from the iTunes Store for $4.99 each. All iPod games are designed specifically for the iPod interface. And all of them look great on the 2-inch color display.
PhotosiPod nano holds up to 7,000 photos you can sync from your Mac or PC via iTunes. Use the Click Wheel to scroll through photo thumbnails. To see a photo full screen, click the center button. You can even view your photo slideshows--complete with music and transitions--on a TV using an optional Apple component or composite AV cable.

ExtrasCalendars, contacts, and a screen lock appear in the Extras menu, along with a few more handy items. Take the world clock, for example. Spin the Click Wheel to choose different clocks for cities all over the world. For workouts, use the built-in stopwatch to log your best times. Product DescriptioniPod nano is the small iPod with one very big idea: Video. Now the world's most popular music player lets you enjoy TV shows, movies, video podcasts, and more. The larger, brighter display means amazing picture quality. It features an anodized aluminum top and polished stainless steel back. It'll wow you for hours. Play up to 5 hours of video or up to 24 hours of audio on a single charge. iTunes provides music, movies, TV shows, games and more. All those features within a wafer-thin, 6.5-mm profile makes iPod nano a tiny big attraction you'll just love carrying around! 2-inch (diagonal) liquid crystal display with blue-white LED backlight; 320-by-240-pixel resolution at 204 pixels per inch Compact and lightweight - Unit Size 4.1 x 2.4 x 0.41 inches (103.5 x 61.8 x 10.5 mm)/ Weighs 4.9 ounces Photo support - Syncs iPod-viewable photos in JPEG, BMP, GIF, TIFF, PSD (Mac only), and PNG formats Internal rechargeable battery delivers up to 24 hours audio or 5 hours video per charge / Recharges in about 3 hours (1.5-hour fast charge to 80% capacity) Includes Earphones, USB cable, dock adapter

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Kindle: Amazon's New Wireless Reading Device

2008-02-16T04:45:00.000-08:00

Amazon Kindle (http://amazon.com/kindle) is a revolutionary portable reader that wirelessly downloads books, newspapers, magazines and blogs to a crisp, high-resolution electronic paper display that looks and reads like real paper, even in bright sunlight.

Kindle customers, no matter where they are in the U.S., can wirelessly shop the Kindle Store and download new content — all without a PC or a WiFi hot spot. Amazon pays for Kindle’s wireless connectivity so there are no monthly wireless bills and no service commitments for customers. The Kindle Store contains over 90,000 books that can be purchased and delivered wirelessly to Kindle, each in less than a minute. Customers can choose from hundreds of top newspapers, magazines and blogs and have their subscriptions auto-delivered wirelessly. All New York Times Best Sellers and New Releases are $9.99, unless marked otherwise.

At 10.3 ounces, Kindle is lighter and thinner than a paperback book, carries two hundred books, and includes built-in access to The New Oxford American Dictionary and wireless access to the Earth’s biggest encyclopedia, Wikipedia.org.

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OQO 1030103-US Model 02 Ultra Mobile PC UMPC

2007-10-07T21:22:00.000-07:00

The OQO Model 02 Ultra Mobile PC is a tiny, ultra-portable computer designed for the mobile professional. The computer features a 5" widescreen LCD and powerful wireless capabilities. The Model 02 can rest in the palm of your hand so the screen slides up to reveal a comfortable QWERTY keyboard with an integrated track stick-pointing device. The Q1 features 802.11a/b/g Wi-Fi to connect to standard wireless networks and hotspots. Bluetooth support is also integrated into the device, allowing you to interface with your wireless devices. Shock-mounted, drop detect hard drive protection technology 1GB DDR2 533 MHz Speed SDRAM Memory 58 keys input backlit thumb keyboard, 4 SmartLock keys, 18 function keys, & number pad Dedicated mouse and zoom buttons track stick pointing device TouchScrollers Audio jack - 3.5mm x 1 line out/line in Video out - HDMI, VGA/Ethernet adapter 1 docking/power connector 1 USB 2.0 port Audio AC97 sound system compatible HD audio support internal speaker and microphone Removable lithium-ion polymer battery type, 4500mAh standard capacity, up to 3 hours of battery life Built-in fuel gauge 5 Wide VGA LCD 800x4800 native resolution Wireless LAN - Atheros tri-mode 802.11a/b/g with diversity Integrated Bluetooth 2.0 technology with EDR Rugged magnesium alloy chassis Operating system - Windows XP Professional Dimensions - Width 5.6 x Height 3.3 x Depth 1.0 Weight - Under 1.0 pound with standard battery

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Samsung Blast myFaves Phone (T-Mobile)

2007-08-26T19:53:00.000-07:00

Perfect for people who want to stay on top of their email as well as stay connected wherever they roam, the crimson and black Samsung Blast slider-style phone is an affordable alternative to smartphones. Available exclusively from T-Mobile, it communicates over GSM/GPRS and EDGE networks and offers quad-band network capabilities for global connectivity. It's first T-Mobile phone to provide direct access to personal e-mail--including AOL email, Yahoo! Mail and Gmail--in addition to text and instant messaging. Composing messages is easy thanks to the hybrid QWERTY keypad that uses SureType technology, also found on RIM's BlackBerry smartphones. (See more about SureType below.) Other features include stereo Bluetooth connectivity, MicroSD memory card expansion, 1.3-megapixel camera/camcorder, speaker-independent voice control, and an integrated digital audio player.
The Blast also is the first phone to feature compatibility with T-Mobile's myFaves service, which allows you to call up to five of your most common contacts--on any network, even landlines--without using any of your minutes. Blast users who are myFaves subscribers can now also send an audio postcard--a photo accompanied by a voice message--as well as send an e-mail or launch an IM client, in addition to a text message, right from the myFaves home screen.

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MTV invests in iTunes rival

2007-08-26T19:47:00.000-07:00

Can MTV sell music online?

Amid its huge investment of resources into the 'Net, MTV made a big push in early 2006 to launch Urge, a digital music service that would compete with iTunes.

But just over a year later, MTV is calling it quits on Urge. Though the company didn't disclose figures, sources indicated it was unsuccessful despite a major marketing push on-air, online and outdoors, as well as a partnership with Microsoft to feature Urge on its ubiquitous Windows Media Player software.

So rather than trying to compete on its own, MTV is investing in one of iTunes' biggest competitors, Rhapsody. Cable conglom and that service's parent company, RealNetworks, are turning Rhapsody into a joint venture controlled 51% by Real and 49% by MTV.

Verizon Wireless will bring the service to cell phones, though it's not an equity stakeholder.

MTV, which is obligated to provide $230 million worth of advertising over five years, along with an undisclosed amount of cash, in exchange for its stake, seems confident that Real will prove a more beneficial partner than Microsoft.

At the least, its decision to invest in Rhapsody makes clear that in the face of Apple's dominance of the digital music space, even MTV can't compete on its own.

Linksys WIP320 Linksys Wireless-G Skype iPhone

2007-08-21T21:48:00.000-07:00

Get wireless handset convenience when you use Skype! Now when you want to talk to your friends you don't need your computer because the Skype application is pre-loaded on the Wireless-G Phone. The Linksys Wireless-G Phone for Skype comes with the Wireless-G Phone and charger and is already pre-loaded with Skype. You are now free to use Skype anywhere you have wireless Internet access. Just select who you want to talk to from your contact list on your color display and get ready to talk.

Of course, the Wireless-G Phone supports SkypeOut dialing and rings when you have a Skype or SkypeIn call coming in, displaying the caller's ID on the screen. The Wireless-G Phone also supports call waiting and Skype's optional Voicemail service. When you're on a call, you can hit the Mute button for privacy, or use the handsfree speakerphone function to let everyone join in.

The Linksys Wireless-G Phone for Skype allows you to make calls to other Skype users from anywhere you have wireless Internet access. You'll get the convenience of a wireless handset and all its features, plus the high-quality voice reception integrated right into your Skype phone, no computer is required!

The WIP320 is also part of the iPhone family of handheld devices which harness the power of the Internet to deliver more than talk, uniting the familiarity of the telephone with compelling Internet services, access to personal content, and integration with the home to create complete communications solutions. iPhone - More than Talk!

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Harman Kardon Soundsticks II 3-Piece Plug and Play Multimedia Speaker System

2007-08-21T21:16:00.000-07:00

Harman Kardon's SoundSticks II three-piece speaker system produces high-quality stereo sound for Music, MP3s, movies and gaming experiences.

The SoundSticks II system encourages you to step out of the ordinary speaker world and offers sound in an original and unique package. The system, described as curvy, sleek and sexy, delivers sound that is loud and clear.

SoundSticks II employs a new computer-optimized multi-band parametric equalization and Harman’s unique "capacitance touch" control buttons on the right satellite allow for direct access to volume control.

2 Satellite Speakers and Subwoofer for Stereo Sound / For use with a PC, Mac, MP3 Player, or any device with a standard 3.5mm headphone output Includes AC Adapter with USA plug Volume control on right satellite speaker Compatible with a PC, Mac, MP3 Player, or any device with a standard 3.5mm headphone output

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ASUS F3SV-A1 15.4" Notebook PC

2007-08-21T20:07:00.000-07:00

Asus F3SV A1 Notebook PC Equipped with the latest dual core processing, the F3Sv provides enhanced responsiveness to enjoy audio & video playback & record, gaming, IM, and web-browsing simultaneously on your notebook. Moreover, it offers outstanding dual-core performance to enjoy multimedia management and digital content creation. Built-in high resolution webcam for wire-free video communication With the built-in 240 degree swivel webcam supporting high resolution right out of the box, the F3Sv enables portable video conferencing without the hassle of bringing a bulky camera and tangling cables. Combined with ASUS LifeFrame2, an exclusive software program for convenient image recording, you can take group photos, film parties, see your pal's face when chatting online and host a vide conference. ASUS Splendid Video Intelligence technology The exclusive ASUS Splendid Video Intelligence technology is especially effective for human skin tones, green stretches of grass and trees and blue sky and sea. It takes PC graphics capability to the next level by enhancing depth and color intensity in real time. It further improves contrast, brightness, skin tone and color saturation for vivid image display. Incorporated with the exclusive ASUS Splendid Video Intelligence Engine (activation hot key: Fn+C), the LCD presents clear and sharp images in their true vibrant colors.

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SEGA to Release Bleach for Wii and DS

2007-07-08T21:07:00.000-07:00

SEGA of America on Friday announced plans to bring the hit anime fighting franchise Bleach to both Wii and DS this fall in time for the launch of the television show's second season on the Cartoon Network. Bleach: Shattered Blade is underway for Wii and Bleach: Blade of Fate for handheld.

"Bleach offers both fans and newcomers alike an action-packed arcade experience that delivers fast-paced swordplay in the tradition of the animated series' intense action sequences," said Scott A. Steinberg, vice president of marketing, SEGA of America. "Bleach is an exciting and highly anticipated property that translates extremely well to the versatility of the Wii Remote and the DS' portable gameplay, and SEGA is proud to be the first to bring the video game series to the North American audience."

"We are thrilled to be partnering with SEGA for the Bleach Wii and DS games," stated Linda Espinosa, vice president, content management, VIZ Media. "The SEGA games have enjoyed immense success in Japan, the manga is a top seller in both Japan and the U.S., and we are expecting great fan response when these games release."

Bleach follows 15-year-old Ichigo Kurosaki, who can see Soul Reapers, warrior spirits from the afterlife charged with the task of defending humans from evil beings called Hollows. One day Ichigo meets the Soul Reaper Rukia, who lends him her powers. On Wii, Bleach is a cel-shaded 3D fighter that makes use of both Nintendo's nunchuck and remote. On DS, the game is a more traditional 2D sprite-based fighter heavy on animation and effects.

In Shattered Blade, the console enables "gamers to wield the Wii remote and nunchuk as their weapons - slashing, jabbing, and lunging in furious battles like a real Soul Reaper," according to the publisher. The title features an original story specifically created for Wii, in addition to 32 playable fighters to choose from. Each fighter can execute specials and summon supernatural allies. There is also a full-fledged multiplayer component.

The handheld Blade of Fate includes 28 selectable characters and the ability to move between upper and lower-plane battles arenas in an effort to escape from opponents. In addition, gamers can build Spirit Card Decks in the handheld iteration, enabling them to "strategically access power-ups and power-downs to perform special attacks, cast healing spells on themselves, displace opponents, or prohibit them from using their own Special Cards," according to SEGA. The title features four-player Wi-Fi support.

YouTube on LG Mobile Phones

2007-07-03T22:14:00.001-07:00

LG Electronics has announced it will begin offering mobile phone handsets with an integrated YouTube client later this year, enabling users to tap into the Internet's largest video sharing community. According to LG, the application will enable users to discover and view video, as well as upload new video directly to YouTube.

"This new service will connect people like never before. For the first time, LG customers will be able to film, upload and view videos on YouTube using their mobile phone just as they would be able to from their home computer," said Dr. Skott Ahn, President and CEO of LG Electronics Mobile Communications Company, in a release. "With this agreement, LG is continuing to drive forward wireless internet services as well as consolidate its technology leadership in the mobile industry."

The agreement isn't the first between Google and LG, LG announced an agreement to pre-install Google software on mobile handsets, with the LG-KS10 (currently available in Italy) being the first fruit of that agreement. LG also has agreements with Yahoo to pre-install Yahoo mobile applications and services on selected handsets.

LG says it will develop the interface for its YouTube application, and handsets pre-loaded with the software should be available toward the end of 2007. Although LG's applications ought to work regardless of carrier, phones LG markets specifically through carriers often only bundle software and services specific to that carrier, so an LG phone which offers YouTube connectivity with one carrier may not with another.

Of course, Apple's iPhone was the first to announce (and ship with) a dedicated YouTube client. Verizon also offers access to YouTube via its VCast service, although browsing capabilities and upload access are limited.

Apple Released iTunes 7.3

2007-06-29T20:31:00.000-07:00

Apple on Friday released iTunes 7.3. The update is available through the Software Update system preference or directly from the Apple Web site.

This update is being offered to provide compatibility with the iPhone, which launches this evening at 6:00 PM. The new version enables iPhone users to activate service for their phone and syncs the iPhone with music, movies, TV shows and more.

iTunes 7.3 also enables users to share digital photos from any computer in the house with an Apple TV.

System requirements call for Mac OS X v10.3.9 or Mac OS X v10.4.7 or later. A separate version is also available for Windows.

Garmin Nuvi 350 Pocket Vehicle GPS Navigator and Personal Travel Assistant

2007-06-10T21:09:00.000-07:00

Garmin nuvi 350 Personal Travel Assistant - This portable GPS navigator is a great companion and guide for traveling to new places, as well as making it easier to get to places you normally travel to. The preloaded City Navigator NT v.7 maps contain detailed road maps throughout the entire United States, Canada, & Puerto Rico. Which allows the nuvi 350 to plot your course, call out turns by street name, and avoid traffic jams - all with a stunning color touch screen! But when you're on the road, the nuvi 350 can also offer you more than just directions. It has an MP3 player, audio book player (for Audible.com media), JPEG picture view, and more! SD memory card expansion slot Powerful built-in speaker Traffic alerts with optional GTM 10 FM TMC traffic receiver Text-to-Speech - unit prompts you to Turn right on Main St. instead of Turn right in 500 feet Audible and visual navigation instructions and warnings Offers a three dimensional mapping perspective, or 2-D overhead view Built-in lithium ion battery Battery Life - 4-8 hours depending on usage Unit Dimensions - 3.87 (w) x 2.91 (h) x 0.87 (d) Unit Weight - 5.1 oz.

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Apple 80 GB iPod video Black (5.5 Generation)

2007-06-10T20:54:00.000-07:00

Apple iPod - Continuing its tradition of hardware and software innovation and design, Apple has released a new iPod that surpasses the last. This update to the 5th generation iPod with video playback features a huge 80GB hard drive - the largest yet! With iTunes 7 ushering in movie and game downloads, there's more than enough content to satisfy this beast of a media player. You also get a 2.5" display that is now 60% brighter, a higher capacity battery for up to 20 hrs. of music and 6.5 hrs. of video, and a set of newly designed iPod earbuds. Ports - dock connector, Stereo minijack, composite video and audio through minijack Connectivity - USB through dock connector, composite video (with A/V cable - sold separately), and audio through headphone jack or line out on the iPod Universal Dock (sold separately) Charge Time - about 4 hrs. (2 hrs. fast charge to 80% capacity) Audio Support - AAC (16 to 320 Kbps), Protected AAC (from iTunes Music Store), MP3 (16 to 320 Kbps), MP3 VBR, Audible (formats 2, 3, and 4), Apple Lossless, WAV, & AIFF Photo Support - syncs iPod-viewable photos in JPEG, BMP, GIF, TIFF, PSD (Mac only), and PNG formats Video Support - H.264 video - up to 768 Kbps, 320 x 240, 30 fps, Baseline Profile up to Level 1.3 with AAC-LC up to 160 Kbps, 48 Khz, stereo audio in. m4v,. mp4 and. mov file formats / MPEG-4 video - up to 2.5 mbps, 480 x 480, 30 fps, Simple Profile with AAC-LC up to 160 Kbps, 48 Khz, stereo audio in. m4v,. mp4 and. mov file formats Backlight Timer Sleep Timer 20 Equalizer Settings Shuffle Songs or Albums Date and Time Unit Dimensions - 4.1 x 2.4 x 0.55 Unit Weight - 5.5 oz. Color - Black

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Palm TX Handheld

2007-06-10T20:45:00.000-07:00

Palm T/X Handheld PDA is anything but business as usual. Connect a portable, folding keyboard to make working on your business documents even easier. Need driving directions? Get turn-by-turn voice-guided directions with the Palm GPS Navigator (GPS requires optional accessories). Whatever you're into, you'll find an application you can use among the thousands made for the Palm OS. Affordable Wi-Fi is here. Introducing the Palm TIX handheld. With built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth technology, this is the wireless device you've been waiting for. Browse the web and check email from your office, campus, or a home Wi-Fi network-and places like airports, cafes, and hotels (with ISP service applicability). Carry your Word, Excel, and PowerPoint files and get more done anywhere. Web pages, presentations, spreadsheets, photos, and videos come to life on a large color screen that rotates from landscape to portrait mode. Have time to unwind? The Palm TX handheld even lets you listen to MP3 and read eBooks. Up to 128MB (100MB actual) Flash Memory - There's more than enough room to hold your calendar, contacts, applications, and even your spreadsheets and presentations. Not to mention fun stuff like photos, tunes, and video clips. And because it's flash memory, the information on your handheld is protected-even if you forget to recharge and the power runs down SD card slot for optional SD memory cards Thanks to the included Pocket Tunes, you can listen to MP3s and podcasts View digital pictures and video clips stored on SD cards Lightweight and compact-fits easily into a pocket or purse Steel Blue Finish Includes USB Connect Cable, Battery and Charger

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Apple MacBook Pros Get LED Screen

2007-06-06T23:11:00.000-07:00

Apple announced that their new MacBook Pro laptop will include LED screens.

The new laptop line will also pack in Intel's latest processors and chip set, as well as 2GB of memory itself. This is an attempt by Apple to pick up the laptop line and to keep them as some of the most powerful laptops on the market.

The 15-inch MacBook Pros are the first to have LED-backlit displays which reduce the trace mercury previously found in LCD displays. They also run on lower levels of power reducing power consumption and raising the batter life.

“With Intel Core 2 Duo performance, more memory and state-of-the-art graphics, this MacBook Pro is a portable powerhouse for creative and professional users,” Philip Schiller, Apple’s senior vice president of global product marketing, stated.

Apple has set up the MacBook Pros to retain their slot at the top of the food chain, especially with the addition of the brand new LED screens and it should be interesting to see how many companies follow suit.

HTC debuts Microsoft-based iPhone rival

2007-06-05T22:03:00.001-07:00

High Tech Computer Corp. announced the HTC Touch, a device based on the Microsoft Windows Mobile 6 Professional operating system that's designed with one-touch screen features giving users instant access to e-mails, contacts and appointments.

Taiwan's HTC is the largest maker of mobile devices based on Microsoft Windows operating systems, and its use of a 2.8-in. touch screen in the HTC Touch is similar to the emphasis Apple Inc. has put on touch-screen features in its iPhone, which is due on June 29.

Users just sweep their fingers across the HTC Touch's screen to bring up an animated interface with three views: Contacts, Media and Applications. The views also allow finger control for scrolling on documents and browsing Web pages.

HTC said today that it developed the touch-screen technology on the HTC Touch itself.

Apple has also touted the touch-screen features in its iPhone. Among other things, the iPhone will allow users to scroll through songs and movies on the 3.5-in. display. The main difference appears to be that the iPhone focuses on entertainment, while the Touch focuses on e-mail and other business-oriented uses.

The Touch does not come with large internal flash memory capacity for music and movie storage, which the iPhone will have. HTC instead offers a microSD drive, and a 1GB microSD card is included with the handset.

The HTC Touch includes multiple wireless technologies, including triband GSM for voice and EDGE (Enhanced Data for GSM Evolution) and Wi-Fi for uploading and downloading data to and from the Internet. Device-to-device data transmission is offered via Bluetooth.

The Touch weighs 112 grams with its battery. The handset also includes a 2-megapixel camera and other features.

It is now available in the U.K., and users throughout Europe and Asia will be able to buy one by the end of this month. North and South America will have to wait until later in the second half of the year. The company did not offer pricing information.

SMS: HTC launched the HTC Touch, a Microsoft Windows Mobile 6-based device designed with one-touch screen features reminiscent of the iPhone.

Source : Computerworld.com

Logitech Harmony 1000 Advanced Universal Remote

2007-06-05T19:42:00.000-07:00

The Logitech Harmony 1000 features a brilliant 3.5-inch color touch screen that allows for one-touch activity-based control of even the most sophisticated A/V components. Say goodbye to the inconvenience of multiple remotes controlling multiple devices; Logitech's patented Smart State Technology makes it easy to control your HDTV, adjust aspect ratios, or change sound modes?there are no complicated macros to program. Just press an on-screen activity icon and Harmony does the rest. One remote is all you'll need to control even the most complex home entertainment systems. And when used together with a Harmony RF Wireless Extender (sold separately), you can further reduce clutter by placing your components out of sight. Since the remote can transmit both infrared and radio frequency commands, you can control equipment inside a cabinet or even in the next room. Package Contents - Logitech Harmony 1000 remote control / Charging station / USB cable /AC Adapter / Lithium-ion battery / Installation CD / Installation guide / 1-year warranty

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TAO 1.4-Inch Digital Picture Keychain

2007-06-04T20:41:00.000-07:00

Manufacturer Description
Originally conceptualized by our founder's young daughter, TAO is proud to be the industry first with the digital picture keychain. This year, TAO again raises the bar by introducing the 1.4-inch digital picture keychain, and by offering Macintosh support for past and current models.

Tao Digital Picture Keychain Highlights

Holds 56 photos, period. Surpassing the brag-book standard of 20-30 photographs, toting around a comprehensive collection is a breeze. Utilize TAO's user friendly software to transfer photos directly from your PC or Mac; then share you precious memories with your coworkers and friends.

Bigger, brighter, clearer display. The 1.4-inch digital picture keychain is bigger, brighter, and clearer than before. Three times the resolution of its predecessor, our new model brings crisp images of our loved ones anywhere, anytime.

Rechargable lithium battery . Never worry about batteries! After 30 minutes of being connected to the outlet or computer, your little gadget will brim with 2 1/2 hours of "on" time (which roughly translates to a week or two of standard show-and-tell).

Slideshow & auto-off. With 56 photos, it can get tiring to keep pressing the buttons - so we included a slideshow mode! We're all a little forgetful now and then, and the friendly little keychain will turn off after 3 minutes of neglect.

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SanDisk launches 64 GB Solid State Drives for notebook PCs

2007-06-04T19:40:00.000-07:00

SanDisk Corporation is expanding its line of solid state drive (SSD) products with the introduction of a 64 gigabyte (GB) SSD aimed at both enterprise users and early adopter consumers such as gamers.

SanDisk 1.8-inch UATA 5000 and 2.5-inch SATA 5000 SSD products, which already are available in a 32GB capacity, are compatible as drop-in replacements for hard disk drives in most mainstream notebook computers.

Compared to conventional hard drives found in most notebook computers, SSDs offer better performance due to the lack of mechanical parts. The flash-based SSD starts working almost immediately to achieve better access speeds than a conventional hard disk drive. SanDisk says that in notebook computers, data moves to and from an SSD more than 100 times faster than data moving to and from a hard disk.

These SSDs offer a sustained read rate of 67 megabytes (MB) per second and a random read rate of 7,000 inputs/outputs per second (IOPS) for a 512-byte transfer. As a result, notebooks equipped with a 2.5-inch SanDisk SSD can boot Microsoft Windows Vista Enterprise in as little as 30 seconds and access files at an average speed of 0.11 milliseconds. For comparison, a notebook using a hard disk requires an average 48 seconds to boot and an average 17 milliseconds to access files.

Low power consumption is also a benefit of using SSD technology. Compared to a typical hard disk drive, which consumes 1.9 watts during active operation, SanDisk SSDs consume 1.0 watt (0.5 watts for 1.8") while active and as little as 0.4 watts (0.2 watts for 1.8") while idle.

Apple MacBook MA701LL/A 13.3" Notebook PC

2007-06-03T21:03:00.000-07:00

With Intel Core 2 Duo processing power, you'll be amazed at what your MacBook can do--and at how fast it can do it. Its 13.3-inch glossy widescreen display lets you see your photos, movies, websites, and documents with incredible clarity. A built-in iSight camera gives you hassle-free video chatting,(1) while Front Row and the Apple Remote make it simple to navigate your digital media from across the room. At just 1.08 inches thin and barely over 5 pounds,(2) the versatile and portable MacBook puts a world of advanced features within your reach.
1 Video chatting requires broadband Internet connection; fees may apply.
2 Weight varies by configuration and manufacturing process.

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Flip Video Camcorder

2007-05-30T20:59:00.000-07:00

The Flip Video Camcorder is a portable, easy-to-use solution for creating and sharing high-quality home movies. Flip Video is the ideal choice for capturing everyday moments that happen anywhere, and sharing them with family and friends everywhere. The camcorder's built-in software makes saving and sharing memories simple and convenient: email videos, make custom movies, capture still photos from video clips, and upload videos directly to popular sharing sites, including YouTube and Grouper Networks. Flip Video comes with a TV connector cable, wrist strap, soft carrying case, two AA batteries, and an instruction booklet.

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Cingular 8525 PDA Phone

2007-05-30T19:06:00.000-07:00

The Cingular 8525 is Cingular’s first UMTS/HSDPA PDA. It is a full-featured Pocket PC and world-phone, allowing users to take advantage of the robust capabilities of the Windows Mobile operating system, while having a single device that allows users to be productive both during work and personal time. As a 3G device, the Cingular 8525 allows for simultaneous voice & data, which is a key differentiator over competitive EVDO products. Another key differentiator of the Cingular 8500/8525 is its support for Bluetooth v2.0. Bluetooth v2.0 allows for up to six active Bluetooth connections simultaneously. For example, a user could have a tethered connection to a PC via Bluetooth, while having a conversation on their Bluetooth headset, or use a Bluetooth GPS accessory for navigation while on a call on their Bluetooth headset.

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Touch Screen in a Table Is the Latest Wrinkle in Computers

2007-05-30T00:20:00.000-07:00

Having just tried its hand at developing a digital music player, Microsoft is working on something new: digital furniture.

The company plans to unveil a computing device today called Microsoft Surface, featuring a 30-inch screen embedded in an acrylic tabletop. The device’s electronic guts are hidden in the low-slung table’s thick pedestal.

At first glance, Surface is reminiscent of an old-fashioned arcade game table around which patrons played Pac-Man. But there is no joystick here, and no mouse or keyboard either. The device is controlled by touching the tabletop display.

Microsoft says this touch screen will allow people to “interact with digital content the same way they have interacted with everyday items such as photos, paintbrushes and music their entire life: with hands, with gestures and by putting real-world objects on the surface.”

For example, when a digital camera with Wi-Fi capabilities is placed on the display, the table recognizes the camera and, at a touch of the screen, downloads its photos and video clips. The digital pictures can be sorted and sized by “handling” them as if they were physical prints.

The device uses cameras under the display to detect touches, and unlike traditional touch screens it can handle multiple touches at the same time, said Jeff Gattis, the director of product management for Surface.

Similarly, Surface can read bar codes and identification tags embedded in objects like hotel chain membership cards.

Microsoft hopes this technology will someday be common in homes, but its first uses will be commercial. By the end of this year, Surface will appear in hotels, restaurants, retail stores and public entertainment sites, where it will serve as an information kiosk and handle things like basic customer service. Steven A. Ballmer, Microsoft’s chief executive, was scheduled to unveil the product today at The Wall Street Journal’s “D: All Things Digital” conference in Carlsbad, Calif.

“With Surface, we are creating more intuitive ways for people to interact with technology,” Mr. Ballmer said in a statement. “We see this as a multibillion-dollar category, and we envision a time when surface computing technologies will be pervasive, from tabletops and counters to the hallway mirror.”

Microsoft also named several partners that will be among the first companies to use Surface, including Harrah’s Entertainment, Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide and T-Mobile USA. The device’s cost was not disclosed.

NHJ Portable Television Watch Wearable 1.5" LCD TV Wristwatch

2007-05-28T21:48:00.000-07:00

The NHJ VTV-101 TV wristwatch is a gadget-guru's fantasy toy, a must have for sports fans, and a conversation-starter for any occasion. Never miss an important news bulletin, TV show, or sporting moment again and enjoy them anywhere! Not only is it a color television, but it's also a wristwatch! This Wearable Portable TV Wristwatch features 1.5-inch TFT LCD color monitor with 280 x 220 pixels, manual and auto tuning, and can receive 2-13 VHF channels and 14-69 UHF channels. The watch also has a second, smaller LCD for displaying time, month, date and year. Just put on the earphone antenna, tune it to your favorite channel, and enjoy the show! A genius invention for the sports nut this mini TV keeps the action on hand and the wearer free to wander. Equipped with a 1-1/2" TFT liquid crystal display, the digital wristwatch TV produces a crisp, clean, 280 x 220-resolution color picture. A specially designed Sony micro tuner and headphone antenna pull in both UHF and VHF channels (reception performance dependent on local UHF/VHF signal strength). Volume and channel buttons discreetly placed on the side of the watch deliver easy control. An LCD bar at the top of the face shows the time, channel and volume level. The watch comes with a built-in rechargeable lithium-polymer battery and docking station that charges the battery (1-1/2 hour charging time) for 1 hour of viewing. Or plug the unit into an AC outlet for direct powering and unlimited viewing time.

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Nokia N800 Internet Tablet PC

2007-05-28T21:22:00.000-07:00

The sleek Nokia N800 Internet Tablet combines a truly personal Internet experience with easy wireless connections, high resolution display and support for a wide variety of Internet applications. Built to be constantly in use, you easily stay in touch with business associates, friends, and family thanks to its Internet calling, instant messaging and email connectivity. And with stereo audio, multimedia support and a new ergonomic design, the Nokia N800 morphs into a portable Internet entertainment device, enabling playback of streamed and downloaded content wherever you roam.

The main form of connectivity is Wi-Fi (802.11b/g), and hooking up to a network is as simple as connecting with a laptop. You can also use the integrated Bluetooth wireless connectivity to hook up with a cell phone that is compatible with online data services. When connected to either a WLAN network or to a cell phone, you can make calls using the built-in Internet telephony application as well as conduct video conferencing with the built-in Web cam.

The N800 provides 256 MB of onboard flash memory and 128 MB of RAM. It also offers two expansion slots that are compatible with Secure Digital (SD), MultiMedia, miniSD, and microSD memory cards with a size limit of 2 GB. (Adapter required for miniSD and microSD.) You can also connect the N800 to a PC using the included USB cable to update software and transfer files from the PC to the a memory card. For multimedia playback, the N800 is compatible with MP3 and WMA digital audio files (as well as AAC, M3U, and WAV), Real Audio streams, and video files encoded as AVI or MPEG4. Additionally, with the UPnP media server functionality, you can share your music, video, and photos with others on the same Wi-Fi network. The N800 has two integrated speakers as well as a headphone jack for personal listening.

Access the web using the N800's Opera web browser, which provides Flash 7 multimedia support. Other applications include an RSS feed reader (for accessing all your favorite news sources), a PDF reader, image viewer, Internet radio player, and instant messenger with voice and video conferencing capabilities (using the Jabber and Google Talk services).

The 4.1-inch touchscreen has an 800 x 400-pixel resolution with up to 65,536 colors. You can access controls with your fingers or use the included stylus, and the N800 provides intuitive handwriting recognition and a full-screen finger keyboard. The rechargable battery provides up to 10 days of standby time and up to 3 hours of continuous Web browsing or media playback. Other features include:

Integrated desk stand for on-table use
Zooming, full-screen and panning display functionality
Auto connection to saved Wi-Fi hotspots or through Bluetooth compatible phones
More applications: Clock, Sketch, Notes, Backup
Dimensions: 5.7 x 2.95 x 0.5 inches (WxHxD)
Weight: 7.27 ounces

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HP TX1120US Pavilion 12.1" Entertainment Notebook PC

2007-05-28T18:41:00.000-07:00

Designed to exceed your computing, communication, personal and entertainment needs, the HP Pavilion tx1000 series Entertainment Notebook PC provides the ideal convergence of these features with the latest mobile computing technologies. Its touchscreen twists 180 degrees for presentations and DVD playback and folds flat to capture hand-written notes and drawings. An integrated fingerprint reader provides extra security and convenience. This 4.49 pounds light notebook PC delivers the same screen resolution and performance as a 15.4-inch system but weighs over 2 pounds less. 160GB 5400RPM SATA Hard Drive LightScribe Super Multi 8x DVD+-R/RW with Double Layer Support Multimedia Drive 12.1-inch WXGA High-Definition HP BrightView Widescreen Touch-screen Display (1280x800) Ultra-portable with a touchscreen that captures hand-written notes and twists 180 degrees for portable entertainment High-Speed 56k Fax/Modem Integrated 10/100/1000 Gigabit Ethernet LAN RJ-45 Connector 802.11b/g WLAN Wireless Connectivity HP Imprint Finish HP Webcam with Integrated Microphone & Finger print reader Altec Lansing Sound 5-in-1 integrated Digital Media Reader - Secure Digital cards, MultiMedia cards, Memory Stick, Memory Stick Pro or xD Picture cards External ports - 3 Universal Serial Bus (USB) 2.0, 2 Headphone out - 1 with SPDIF Digital Audio & 1 stereo, 1 microphone-in, 1 notebook expansion port 3, 2 Consumer IR (1 on notebook & 1 on panel) Communications - Integrated 10/100/1000 Gigabit Ethernet LAN (RJ-45 Connector), High-Speed 56k modem Operating system - Genuine Windows Vista Home Premium Dimensions - Length 8.82 x Width 12.05 x Height 1.23-1.52 inch Weight - 4.49 pounds.

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Apple MacBook MA700LL/A 13.3" Notebook PC (2.0 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo, 1 GB RAM, 80 GB Hard Drive, SuperDrive)

2007-05-25T20:45:00.000-07:00

Why just notebook? The world and cyberworld seems brighter when you've MacBook. The most advanced and affordable Mac notebook ever gives you a blazingly fast mobile architecture in a beautiful design that costs less than slower, clunkier models. It's like getting a sports car for the price of a scooter. Talk about performance, MacBook's powered with an Intel Core 2 Duo processor with speeds revving up to 2.0GHz. Thanks to a 13.3-inch glossy widescreen display, MacBook provides the perfect combination of pixels and portability. Built-in wireless capability of MacBook puts the world back in World Wide Web. If there's a wireless hot spot nearby, you can get online. No need to waste valuable surfing time configuring your computer. Just open it up. MacBook automatically detects wireless networks within range and asks nicely if you'd like to join any of them. That's it. Catch up on your blog, share this weekend's trip as a Photocast, or just chat with your friends. With built-in utility software to help make living easier and funnier, the MacBook MA700LL/A helps the business and joys that embrace who you are and aspire to be. Your MacBook comes with 90 days of free telephone support and a one-year limited warranty. SuperDrive DVD Writer - (write) up to 2.4x DL DVD+R, 6x DVD-R/+R, 4x DVD-RW/+RW, 24x CD-R, and 10x CD-RW / Read up to 8x DVD-ROM and 24x CD-ROM Intel GMA 950 Graphics Processor with 64MB of Memory (memory is taken from the main system) Built-in 802.11g Wi-Fi AirPort Extreme Adapter Built-in Bluetooth 2.0+ Enhanced Data Rate (EDR) Built-in iSight Camera and Omnidirectional Microphone Built-in Stereo Speakers Ports - 2 USB 2.0, 1 FireWire 400, 1 10/100/1000 Gigabit Ethernet, Combined Optical Digital Audio In/Line-In, Combined Optical Digital Audio Out/Headphone Out Color - White Unit Dimensions - 1.08 (h) x 12.78 (w) x 8.92 (d); Unit Weight - 5.2 lbs. Up to 6 hours use per charge.

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Nokia-developed Cell Phone to warn against Lightning Strikes

2007-05-24T20:11:00.000-07:00

Scientists at Nokia have developed software that transforms a mobile phone into a signal receiver and warns the user of an approaching lightning strike.

Basically, a lightning bolt is an electric current that emits radio waves, which each bolt producing frequencies between 10 hertz and 5 gigahertz. However, the distribution of these signals depends on how far away the lightning is.

According to the scientists at Nokia, the multiple receivers in a phone, such as Bluetooth, FM, tri-band GSM, Wi-Fi and RFID, can be tuned to pick up these signals.
The newly developed software then interprets them, works out the distance to the lightning, and tells the user if the lightning strikes are getting closer.

Since lightning can be a major risk to people taking part in outdoor activities such as golfing, jogging etc., the software could become an indispensable safety device for outdoor enthusiasts.
As of now, Nokia has filed a patent (US patent application 2007/0085525) in the United States (US) for the software.

New PlayStation 3 version 1.80 software gives console new capabilities

2007-05-23T20:43:00.001-07:00

Word from Sony Computer Entertainment Europe indicates that the PlayStation 3 will be receiving a significant firmware update on May 24, 2007. New for firmware version 1.80: upscaling of original PlayStation and PlayStation 2 games to 1080p when viewed on a compatible HD TV set.

With the announcement coming from the offices of Sony Europe, it’s still unknown if the upscaling of older PlayStation software is a result of the revised hardware’s software emulation, meaning that the feature could be exclusive to the Euro-spec PS3. Currently, North American and Japanese PlayStation 3 utilize dedicated PS2 chips for the backwards compatibility of previous-generation titles.

Also on the upscaling front, the new 1.80 update will enable the PS3 to upscale DVD movies up to full 1080p as well. This feature was promised by Phil Harrison back in March, and now gives the PlayStation 3 similar DVD playback capabilities as most other standalone Blu-ray players.

Version 1.80 will finally enable Remote Play on gamers’ PSP across the Internet, allowing them to access their PS3 anywhere in the world where a broadband internet connection is available. The new firmware also allows users on a home network to view media content such as images, music and video on their PS3, that is stored on their DLNA3 enabled devices such as PCs and laptops elsewhere in the house.

Another quirky addition to the PlayStation 3 in 1.80 is the support for a selection of Epson printers, allowing the console to interface and print photo images stored on PS3’s hard disk or inserted storage media. Such changes reinforce Sony’s desire to make the PlayStation 3 the quintessential media machine.

T-Mobile Launches Windows Mobile Phone

2007-05-22T22:32:00.000-07:00

T-Mobile USA on Tuesday launched the first cell phone in the U.S. to come with Microsoft's latest version of Windows Mobile, with improved handling of e-mail and tougher security.The T-Mobile Wing costs $299 with a two-year contract and runs Windows Mobile 6, Microsoft Corp.'s latest operating system for "smart" phones, which handle e-mail, documents and Web browsing in addition to phone calls.

It's a competitive space: Microsoft is trying to translate its dominance in PC software into an advantage versus Research in Motion Ltd.'s BlackBerry, Palm Inc.'s Treo and Apple Inc.'s soon-to-launch iPhone.The advances in the new Windows Mobile version are incremental rather than revolutionary. It lets users read e-mail with embedded images and graphics, and can be set up to receive e-mail instantly from Windows Live Hotmail.

It also supports Live's instant messaging program and Web search. Synchronization of data with Windows Vista computers via Bluetooth wireless connections has been simplified.Security features have been beefed up to appeal to corporate users: If used in conjunction with Microsoft's latest software for corporate e-mail servers, the memory of a lost or stolen device can be wiped remotely by the owner through an Outlook account, with no need to call the IT department.Files stored on removable memory cards can be encrypted, and the device can send and receive e-mail whose readership is controlled by Information Rights Management, useful for sensitive data.

Windows Mobile 6 also allows the user to search remotely stored e-mail and corporate address books.The Wing features a 40-key keyboard that slides out from underneath the 2.8-inch touchscreen. The phone is similar to the discontinued T-Mobile MDA, but smaller, and like the MDA is made by High Tech Computer Corp. of Taiwan.T-Mobile lacks a third-generation broadband cellular network in the U.S., lagging behind the larger cellular carriers. The Wing makes up for this in part by including the capability to connect to Wi-Fi hotspots.Microsoft released Windows Mobile 6 in February. HTC-made phones sporting the software have gone on sale in Europe in the last few months.

Windows Mobile 6 has been available for a few weeks as a download for T-Mobile's Dash smart phone, but the upgrade wipes the handset's memory of all user data. Dash phones with the new software pre-installed will be available in June, T-Mobile said.The carrier said the Dash and the BlackBerry Pearl, which launched last year, have widened the customer base for smart phones beyond corporate road warriors. It says most of the buyers are getting them to replace regular consumer-level camera phones.T-Mobile USA is a subsidiary of Deutsche Telekom AG of Germany.

LG VX8500 Cherry Chocolate Phone

2007-05-21T02:55:00.000-07:00

LG's newest mobile treat, the VX-8500 Chocolate offers minimalist-inspired style in a silky-smooth slider design. Deluxe features include support for V Cast Music, glowing touch-sensitive navigation keys, a powerful integrated music/video player, a 1.3 megapixel camera/camcorder, stereo Bluetooth capabilities, and a microSD memory slot for extra storage. If you value extreme style mixed with powerful substance, this is the phone for you.

The phone features an attractive open-faced design with an internal antenna and a vibrant 240 x 320 pixel, 262,000-color TFT/TFD display. A touch sensor click wheel--similar to the navigation device featured on the ever-popular iPod--and sliding design set the phone apart stylistically. Opening the slider reveals a numeric keypad, as well as the 1.3-megapixel camera and LED flash, which are housed on the rear of the phone. The volume and voice slide keys are on the left of the phone, while the music, camera and "end" keys are on the right side. A memory card slot is provided for MicroSD/TransFlash memory cards of up to 2 GB capacity. The phone includes 512 MB of internal memory.

The Chocolate's 1.3-megapixel digital camera features a flash, as well as digital zoom, self-timer, night-mode functions, and brightness and white balance controls. The camera also offers up to one-hour of video capture. A built-in music player with stereo speakers and an equalizer, offering MP3 and WMA playback, lets you keep your music playing in the background. You can also take advantage of the Chocolate's Bluetooth wireless headset capability, allowing you to hook up a pair of Bluetooth stereo headphones.

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Microsoft Expands Office Interoperability

2007-05-21T02:01:00.000-07:00

As part of its continued commitment to deliver interoperability by design, Microsoft Corp. announced a new collaborative effort with the Beihang University (Beijing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics) and others to create an open source translator project between China’s Unified Office Format (UOF) and the Ecma Open XML File Formats. In addition, the company announced the beta release of translation tools for Windows XP, and the 2003 and 2007 versions of Microsoft Office Excel and Microsoft Office PowerPoint as part of the Open XML Translator project launched in July 2006.
The UOF translation tools will be developed and licensed as open source software, and ultimately will be made available as free, downloadable add-ins for Microsoft Office Word 2003 and 2007 customers from SourceForge.net. As such, the tools will be available for use with other individual and commercial projects to accelerate document interoperability across the industry and benefit Microsoft Office customers in China who need to work with the UOF standard. A preview of the UOF translator tools will be released on SourceForge this summer, with final versions expected early next year. Further details on the UOF SourceForge project are available at http://uof-translator.sourceforge.net/.

Sony DCR-DVD108 DVD Handycam Camcorder

2007-05-20T22:33:00.000-07:00

Capture digital video and still images simply on DVD with the Sony DCR-DVD108 DVD Handycam(R) camcorder. Versatile and powerful, the DCR-DVD108 Handycam(R) camcorder enhances your personal videos by adding professional looking fader effects and Sony's Picture Effect Modes. The Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar Lens with 40x optical, 2000x digital zoom keeps you close to the action while Super SteadyShot(R) technology and Super NightShot(R) feature make sure it looks perfect. Super NightShot(R) Plus Infrared System SteadyShot Picture Stabilization Professional Quality Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar Lens Aperture - f1.8 - f3.1 Touch Panel Exposure Focal Distance - 2.3 - 46mm Shutter Speeds - Auto, 1/4-1/4000 sec. (AE Mode) Program AE (Auto Exposure) Modes - Beach and Ski, Landscape, Portrait, Spotlight, Sports Lesson, and Sunset and Moon Compatible with DVD-R, -RW and +RW White Balance Modes - Auto, Indoor, One-push, Outdoor Picture Effects - Monotone, Mosaic, Pastel, and Sepia Fader Effects - Black, Overlap, White and Wipe Onboard battery information (displayed on LCD) Touch-panel Manual Focus Easy Handycam(R) Button Optional S-Video out Built-in microphone InfoLithium Battery with AccuPower(TM) Meter System Battery Life - Continuous recording for up to 8 hours on a single full charge Dimensions - 2-1/4 x 3-5/8 x 5-1/4 inch (54.5 x 89 130.5 mm) Weight - 16 ounces (440 grams)

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Canon PowerShot SD1000 7.1MP Digital Elph

2007-05-20T22:16:00.000-07:00

Chic, simple. Canon looked to the very first ELPH for inspiration when designing the PowerShot SD1000 Digital ELPH, and came up with a quintessential iteration of the icon: slim, clean-lined and fully flat. Inside, the SD1000 Digital ELPH looks only to the future: 7.1 megapixels, a 3x optical zoom and advanced DIGIC III ensure top-quality images, while focus is fast and sharp and red-eye is automatically corrected. The large and more colorful LCD screen now has a tough, anti-reflective coating that makes it as durable as it is beautiful. Shutter Speed - 15-1/1500 sec.; Long Shutter operates with noise reduction when manually set at 1.3-15 sec. Metering - Evaluative, Center-weighted average, Spot; Control to incorporate facial brightness in Face Detection Shooting Modes menu - Auto, Camera M, Portrait, Special Scene (Foliage, Snow, Beach, Fireworks, Aquarium, Underwater, Indoor, Kids & Pets), Night Snapshot, Color Accent, Color Swap, Digital Macro, Stitch Assist, Movie Image Files - Still Image - Exif 2.2 JPEG / Movie - AVI (Image - Motion JPEG; Audio - WAVE (Monaural) Selectable image resolutions - Still Image - 640 x 480 (Small), 1,600 x 1,200 (Medium 3), 2,048 x 1,536 (Medium 2), 2,592 x 1,944 (Medium 1), 3,072 x 2,304 (Large), 3,072 x 1,728 (Widescreen); Movie - 640 x 480 / 320 x 240 (30 fps/15 fps) available up to 4GB, 320 x 240 (1 min. at 60 fps), 160 x 120 (3 min. at 15 fps), 640 x 480 (2 hrs. at 0.5 fps/1 fps. Playback at 15 fps) Play modes - Still Image - Single, Magnification (approx. 2x-10x), Jump, Auto Rotate, Rotate, Resume, My Category, Histogram, Index (9 thumbnails), Sound Memos, Sound Recorder, Slide Show, Red-eye Correction; Movie - Normal Playback, Special Playback, Auto Rotate, Resume Video output is NTSC and PAL compatible Has USB 2.0 port for image transfer to PC or Mac Unit Dimensions WHD - 3.38 x 2.11 x 0.76 in. / 85.9 x 53.5 x 19.4mm; Weight - About 4.41 oz. / 125g

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Motorola KRZR K1 Phone

2007-05-20T21:12:00.000-07:00

Following in the footsteps of the revolutionary MOTORAZR phone, the new ultra-sleek MOTOKRZR introduces a new standard of stunning style and innovation. Sharp and sophisticated with a luxurious finish and detailed craftsmanship, the MOTOKRZR is the definitive mobile for individuals who have an appreciation for cutting edge designs. Within the MOTOKRZR phone's striking form lies remarkable functionality rich in first-class multimedia and entertainment capabilities, global connectivity1 and more—all designed to give you an elite, unparalleled wireless experience. Reflecting the design language of the super-slim MOTORAZR, the MOTOKRZR exudes pure luxury with clean lines, precision detailing and premium materials shrouded within a distinctive metallic gloss front finish. The MOTOKRZR builds upon one of the most celebrated designs of the past decade by blending slender form with razor-thin design principles in a sleek clamshell form. Measuring a mere 16mm thin X 42mm wide X 103mm long and weighing only 3.6 ounces, the MOTOKRZR slips easily into a pocket or purse.

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Sony Ericsson W810i Phone

2007-05-20T20:07:00.000-07:00

W810 Walkman® is a stylish music player with everything you need for a mobile music lifestyle. An easy-to-use Walkman® digital music player with folders for artists and customized playlists. A 128 MB Memory Stick PRO™ Duo memory. And a stereo headset for quality listening. Enjoy hours of your favorite music wherever you go. And when you want quality entertainment around the clock, W810 has an FM radio with RDS.

The W810i's phone book can hold up to 1000 contacts with multiple entries per contact. A call list remembers your most recent missed, received and dialed calls. The phone's voice activated dialing makes calling your contacts as easy as saying their names, while the built-in speakerphone makes it easy to talk without having the phone to your ear. Polyphonic ringtones are included and you can also use MP3 and AAC music files as ringtones. A cool application called Music DJ even lets you mix your own ringtones. Meanwhile, picture caller ID lets you assign a photo to specific callers. Similarly, a ringer ID lets you assign ringtones to callers. More ringtones are available from Cingular's MEdia NET mobile web service. For those times you want to keep things discreet, there's a vibrate ringer mode. And because the W810i is Bluetooth-enabled, you can use a variety of headsets and handsfree kits for total wireless freedom when you're on the go.

And don't forget about that powerful 2-megapixel camera, which features something most camera phones lack -- autofocus. Finally, you can get consistently great shots from any distance, shots that rival the quality of a dedicated digital camera. The camera also features an LED flash and a 4x digital zoom, and it can capture video, as well. Dedicated controls on the side of the unit will make you forget you're holding a phone in your hand.
And what about gaming? This phone is definitely geared for the mobile fun fanatic, as it supports widescreen and 3D games. The W810i comes preloaded with several games and more are downloadable from Sony Ericsson.

Buy Sony Ericsson W810i Phone

Apple's IPhone Will Be Sold In The US Next Month

2007-05-17T22:40:00.000-07:00

The iPhone is Apple's boldest attempt to conquer new technology markets since the company launched the original iPod in October 2001.

The phone, which will cost $500 and be available initially to only AT&T Wireless customers, signifies how strongly Apple believes it needs to diversify from its core Macintosh computer line and turn itself into an all-inclusive media-device company.

Apple unveiled the iPhone in early January. The new touch-screen phone will be able to play music, surf the Internet and take pictures, among other functions.

The iPhone uses a new technology called multitouch to do away with the traditional keyboard found on most phones or personal digital assistants, and replaces it with a screen upon which "buttons" will appear for different functions such as its built-in iPod, phone and Web surfing. It will also have a 3.5-inch diagonal screen and be 11.6 millimeters thick. Apple said that the phone will have a 2-megapixel camera, instant text-messaging capacity, iTunes sync and a visual voice-mail system, which will allow users to read a list of people who called.

Best-Selling Gadget Ever

2007-05-17T07:47:00.000-07:00

You must be surprised that this item was mentioned as the best selling gadget in an article in Yahoo. Nokia 1100 handset has outsold even the most ubiquitous gadgets including the iPod, Playstation 2, and even the RAZR. The Nokia 1100 (dubbed "Penny" by the design team) was created in 2002, launched late in 2003, and has been a very popular phone thanks to good timing. This entry-level, stripped-down handset entered the market just in time to catch a cellphone boom in emerging markets.

This phone is as plain as they get. It doesn't have a color screen, music player, or digital camera. However, it does allow texting, houses a flashlight, alarm, and digital clock. Not very appealing, Butthe low price makes anything appealing, especially if its your first cell phone.

Here's how the other players compare:

Nokia 100: 200 million
Playstation 2: 115 million
iPods: 100 million
RAZR: 50 million
LG Chocolate Phone: 10 million

Buy Nokia 1100

Adobe Photoshop Image and Editing Power

2007-05-16T22:51:00.000-07:00

Adobe Photoshop CS2 promises a lot of image editing power and in the right hands, it can transform any photo into virtually anything you want it to appear. Photoshop CS2 is Adobe's Photoshop v. 9.0, which was released in 2005. CS stands for Creative Suite and CS2 marks the 2nd version since the re-branding of Adobe's products. The software features a more intelligent transform tool, a better replacement tool and multiple layer selection. Some of the best tools in this version were only available as plug-ins in older versions.
If you want to learn Photoshop CS2, use the many resources that are available online. You'll find the best CS2 tutorials here, all for free. Here are some sites you can start with:
Adobe.comStart with the experts. After all, they did create Photoshop CS2 and you'll find a lot of background information on this version from this site. And they're giving it away for free. Go to the tutorials page and look for the link to CS2 (there are links to other Photoshop versions like 7.0 and CS3). There are thousands of tutorials on this site. Simply pick which ones you need to start you on CS2.
You can also check out Photoshop.Support.com, a technical support and advice site. Every free CS tutorial you'll find here is the work of CS2 experts. The tutorials page lists some of the most comprehensive tutorial sessions, enough to make any burgeoning CGI artist feel like a pro.
Access the index on Photoshop CS2 tips by Jennifer Apple to find how to work with layers and type. If you think everything you need to learn about these features are covered by v. 7.0, think again. There's plenty more and this page will show you.
Graphic-Design.comWant to learn feathering, displace maps and pixelsmithing? Go to this site. The free CS2 tutorials are taught using no-nonsense approach and the instructions are easy to understand and follow. There are several specific tutorials on the homepage you can click to but if you want to learn step 1, go to the tutorials link. You'll find some very valuable lessons on CS2 from there.
Lombergar.comThis site is maintained by an award-winning artist and Photoshop user so you can be sure the free tutorials are well-written and taught. You can access the video tutorials featured on the site, although you'll need the latest version of QuickTime player to view them. Each video tutorial is 15 minutes long but it will cover everything you need to know about a particular CS2 lesson. Learn how to fake long exposures, create fake fog and real-looking rain, and many more. You can also access more of the author's video tutorials from the site.
RussellBrown.comAnother site to access free CS2 video tutorials is this site. The friendly tone should set you at ease and as the amiable Dr. Brown will assure you, learning CS2 should be fun. Simply scroll down the page to find the specific CS2 tutorial you need. All video tutorials can be accessed using QuickTime, so make sure you have downloaded your own version.
The free Photoshop tutorials are worth your time so you will need some patience when you're trying to download them from the site, especially if you have slow connection. You might also want to switch a Firefox or Safari browser if you're short on patience. All tutorials are provided for free courtesy of Brown and Adobe Systems.
Mario Churchill is a freelance author and has written over 200 articles on various subjects. For a free photo shop tutorial and or to purchase a video photo shop tutorial checkout his website.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mario_SG_Churchill

Classification of Computers

2007-05-16T22:24:00.001-07:00

Computers are available in different shapes, sizes and weights, due to these different shapes and sizes they perform different sorts of jobs from one another.
They can also be classified in different ways. All the computers are designed by the qualified computer architectures that design these machines as their requirements.
A computer that is used in a home differs in size and shape from the computer being used in a hospital. Computers act as a server in large buildings, while the computer also differs in size and shape performing its job as a weather forecaster.

A student carrying a laptop with him to his college is different in shape and size from all the computers mentioned above.

Here we are going to introduce different classifications of computers one by one. We will discuss what are in classifications and what job they perform.

Super computer
The biggest in size, the most expensive in price than any other is classified and known as super computer. It can process trillions of instructions in seconds. This computer is not used as a PC in a home neither by a student in a college.
Governments specially use this type of computer for their different calculations and heavy jobs. Different industries also use this huge computer for designing their products.
In most of the Hollywood’s movies it is used for animation purposes. This kind of computer is also helpful for forecasting weather reports worldwide.

Mainframes
Another giant in computers after the super computer is Mainframe, which can also process millions of instruction per second and capable of accessing billions of data.
This computer is commonly used in big hospitals, air line reservations companies, and many other huge companies prefer mainframe because of its capability of retrieving data on a huge basis.
This is normally to expensive and out of reach from a salary-based person who wants a computer for his home.
This kind of computer can cost up to thousands of dollars.

Minicomputer
This computer is next in he line but less offers less than mainframe in work and performance. These are the computers, which are mostly preferred by the small type of business personals, colleges, etc.

Personal computers
Almost all the computer users are familiar with the personal computers. They normally know what the personal computer is and what are its functions.
This is the computer mostly preferred by the home users. These computers are lesser in cost than the computers given above and also, small in size; they are also called PCs in short for Personal computers.
This computer is small in size and you can easily arrange it to fit in your single bedroom with its all accommodation. Today this is thought to be the most popular computer in all.

Notebook computers
Having a small size and low weight the notebook is easy to carry to anywhere. A student can take it with him/her to his/her school in his/her bag with his/her book.
This is easy to carry around and preferred by students and business people to meet their assignments and other necessary tasks.
The approach of this computer is also the same as the Personal computer. It can store the same amount of data and having a memory of the same size as that of a personal computer. One can say that it is the replacement of personal desktop computer.

This is one of the unique articles posted weekly on http://www.computer-and-printer-reviews.com.

About The Author
John Gibb is currently the webmaster of several guide websites. Http://www.computer-and-printer-reviews.com is his latest addition.
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Laptop Buying Guide

2007-05-16T03:00:00.000-07:00

Price

Laptop prices have come down dramatically in the last few years. I just purchased a top-notch travel notebook for $1600. That's a far cry from the middle of the road laptop-brick that I scraped to buy five years ago for $2300.
There are budget machines well below the $1000 mark. Acer, HP, Apple and Toshiba all make a budget line of laptops that can do the trick for portability at a price.

Student Discounts

If you are a college student, be sure to check your bookstore for the student discount; usually around 15%. You might consider buying your software from a deeply discounted education site like journeyed.com. Also browse the student or education section on a computer manufacturer's website. You may have to prove you are actually enrolled, but for 15%, it's worth showing your student ID. I suggest starting at HP's education program or Apple's Education program.

Size

Size is a huge factor in the purchase of a laptop. If you are a road-warrior, you probably want a light-weight machine with plenty of battery life. If you want a desktop-replacement system that lives at home or in the office get a laptop that has a fast processor, many components, and a large screen size; all factors which increase the laptop's weight.
The more you want from your laptop, the bigger and heavier it will be. I travel a ton and I have found the best weight to features equation is about a 4.5 pound machine.

Use

There are a myriad of form factors and flavors of laptops these days. Tablet PCs allow you to use a stylus to write on the screen. Tablets are perfect for computing while standing up or for use in the classroom actually taking notes. Buying a laptop with Microsoft's Media Center Operating System affords you all the features of a regular laptop, but the OS also acts like a TiVo: recording video and storing it on the hard drive. You can plug your laptop in at home and watch your recorded shows on the airplane. Companies like Alienware make gaming specific laptops, and Apple's MacBook Pros come with enough power and style to tempt anyone into switching over.
This entry is just meant to wet your whistle if you are just starting the process of buying a laptop. Here are a few guides to help you dive in deeper once you've answered my three questions about price, size and use.

Two Considerations when Buying a New Camera

2007-05-16T02:31:00.000-07:00

Planning on buying a new digital camera? Among the many choices you have to make including megapixels, image quality, and zoom capability, here are two more things you should consider:

Media Type: There are lots of media types available for cameras, such as CompactFlash, SecureMedia, etc. Because of my previous purchases of CompactFlash cards that I used in older cameras, if upgrading, I would not want to purchase a camera that used a different type of memory unless its other features far outweighed those of competing cameras. Memory prices are going down, but cards are still not cheap and I don't want to 'throw away' this media investment when upgrading.

Some cameras are realizing that not everyone wants to use their manufacturer's proprietary media format. For example, the upcoming (at the time of this tip's writing) Sony Cyber-shot DSC-F828 uses Sony's Memory Stick format, but this digital camera also supports CompactFlash and MicroDrives.

Battery Type: If you currently use rechargeable batteries, factor into your purchasing decision whether or not your 'dream' camera supports the same types of batteries. I own six or seven sets of AA NiMH rechargeable batteries and would be very weary of purchasing a camera that had its own custom battery type. Of course, if the digital camera offered double the megapixels, a wider zoom lens, and better quality photos, I might reconsider (grin).

How Do I Speed XP's Shutdown?

2007-05-15T19:53:00.000-07:00

Tips for getting out of Windows more quickly.

You could hard-boil an egg in the time it takes some Windows XP systems to shut down. If your PC doesn't know how to say good night, Gracie, try these tips.

Don't Shut Down, HibernateThere are only two reasons to shut down Windows: to save electricity, and to reset the operating system when it starts acting goofy. If nothing really bad is happening and the stars have aligned correctly, XP can run reliably for days or even weeks between boots. So instead of shutting down your system, tell it to go to sleep.
Putting Windows into Hibernate mode copies the contents of your machine's RAM to your hard disk, then powers everything down, which saves just as much electricity as shutting it down--from the hardware point of view, the two actions are identical. Hibernating XP and waking it out of hibernation take much less time than closing it and rebooting. For more information, read the "Enable Hibernation" section in my September 2002 Answer Line.

Close Programs FirstWindows must close every running program before it can shut itself down, which is time consuming. Of course, you could close each program manually beforehand to speed up the shutdown--but unless Windows seems to take forever to close, that won't save you much time.
However, if your shutdowns are unusually slow, you could try closing your running programs (both your applications and your system tray icons) prior to turning Windows off. If your system shuts down more quickly, one of those programs is causing the hang-up.
Watch Out for Bad DriversBuggy or improperly installed drivers can also cause shutdown difficulties. Check to see if your device drivers need updates by right-clicking My Computer and selecting Properties, Hardware, Device Manager. Look for entries with yellow question marks or red exclamation points: A question mark indicates that Windows is using a generic driver for that device instead of one designed for it, and an exclamation point means that the device is not working.

The drivers for graphics boards, sound cards, and printers are most likely to need an update. Visit the vendors' Web sites to download the updated drivers to your PC. Then right-click the entry in Device Manager, choose Update Driver, and step through the wizard, selecting "No, not this time" to the Windows Update question, and choosing the "specified location" option when it appears. When you're able to navigate to the driver file, select it and click OK to install it. When you finish updating your drivers, close all open windows.
Terminate Terminal ServicesWindows XP's Terminal Services can also cause recalcitrant shutdowns. That's more, if you never use remote desktop, fast user switching, remote assistance, the terminal server, or other Terminal Services, you don't need them. To shut it off, select Start, Run, type services.msc /s, and press Enter. Find and double-click the Terminal Services listing. (Of course, if you don't have Terminal Services installed, your slow shutdowns have another cause.) Change "Startup type" to Disabled or Manual and click OK.
Don't Clear Virtual MemoryIf you use Windows XP Pro (but not the Home edition, alas), you can speed up your shutdowns by verifying that you're not clearing your virtual memory whenever you exit Windows. Select Start, Run, type gpedit.msc, and press Enter. Navigate to Computer Configuration\Windows Settings\Security Settings\Local Policies\Security Options in the left pane. In the right pane, scroll to Shutdown: Clear virtual memory pagefile. If the option is enabled, double-click it, select Disabled, and click OK. (You may not have this option on your system.)

Reduce Windows' Wait TimeYou can speed up some shutdowns--and risk losing unsaved data--by reducing the time Windows waits for a program to stop itself properly before taking this job into its own disruptive hands. But first, save a restore point as described in the third option in Scott Dunn's "No-Brainer Backups Using Windows' Own Tools." Then select Start, Run, type regedit, and press Enter. In the left pane navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control. Double-click the WaitToKillServiceTimeout item in the right pane. Set it to a value lower than the default 2000 (or 2 seconds), perhaps to 1000 (1 second). Click OK, and then reboot.

By Lincoln Spector, PC World