Inside-Compurters Technology in the World

MOTOSURF A3100

2009-01-06T10:18:00.000-08:00

MOTOSURF A3100

MOTOSURF A3100 comes with the familiar Windows Mobile 6.1 software, and it features a customizable home screen, meant to offer users an easy way of managing their social and work life. The device allows one to access applications with the tip of a finger, or by using an omni-directional trackball or a stylus. Users can customize the home screen icons to show ‘live’ feeds on weather, news, personal and work e-mail, messaging or calendar events. Moreover, the experience is enhanced through the WiFi and 3G capabilities of the device.

“We developed the MOTOSURF A3100 as a true social smartphone,” said John Cipolla, senior vice president, product development, Motorola Mobile Devices. “Home screen personalization and access to a whole host of applications gets the info you want – fast, and at your fingertips.” The MOTOSURF A3100 will become available starting with Q1 2009, in different regions including Asia and Latin America.

The MOTOSURF A3100 is packed with quad-band GSM (850/900/1800/1900MHz) and tri-band UMTS (850/1900/2100MHz), with HSPA and WiFi for high-speed data transfers. Bluetooth 2.0 with A2DP support for stereo Bluetooth headphones is also on board. The 3 megapixel autofocus camera should help you get the perfect shot, while the microSD card slot allows for extra storage.

infomation from http://news.softpedia.com/news/Motorola-Announces-MOTO-W233-Renew-and-MOTOSURF-A3100-101236.shtml

MOTO W233

2009-01-06T10:06:00.000-08:00

MOTO W233

Motorola has announced the launch of two new mobile phones meant to make social connectivity and responsibility accessible to people all around the world. The MOTO W233 Renew is a device made from plastics comprised of recycled water bottles, while MOTOSURF A3100 is a high-speed touch tablet that comes with a fully customizable home screen. The company will debut the device at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas this month.

The design of MOTO W233 Renew is environmentally responsible, and the phone is able to provide the quality Motorola has accustomed us with. The device features a plastic housing that has been made from recycled water bottles, fully recyclable itself, and it is also the world’s first carbon neutral phone. The company partnered with Carbonfund.org and managed to offset the carbon dioxide from manufacturing, distributing and operating the handset through a series of investments in reforestation and renewable energy sources.

“Today, natural resources, energy and time are more precious than ever before,” said Jeremy Dale, corporate vice president, global marketing, Motorola Mobile Devices. “From the product’s design, to the packaging to our partnership with Carbonfund.org, we wanted to ensure that this device makes the right impact with consumers and the environment.”

The company also managed to reduce the packaging by 22 percent, at the same time using only 100 percent post-consumer recycled paper for the box and the printed materials inside it. The manufacturer also offers users the possibility to return their previous phones for recycling at no cost. MOTO W233 Renew offers nine hours of talk time, CrystalTalk technology and messaging capabilities, and it will become available at T-Mobile USA in Q1 2009.

information from http://news.softpedia.com/news/Motorola-Announces-MOTO-W233-Renew-and-MOTOSURF-A3100-101236.shtml

Asus PhysX P1

2009-01-06T10:02:00.000-08:00

Asus PhysX P1

ASUS PhysX P1 Card powered by AGEIA PhysX processor, things don´t just look real, and they act real and feel real. Prepare to be shocked by stunning massively destructible buildings and landscapes; explosions that cause collateral damage; lifelike characters with spectacular new weapons; realistic smoke, fog and oozing fluids are all now possible with the ASUS PhysX P1!

ASUS Features The Hottest 3D Game: Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter bundled in Ghost Recon Edition

High 128M memory size

High Speed DDR3 memory interface: Support DDR3 memory delivers smoother game play via onboard acceleration of dynamic physics geometry and simulation objects.

Stylish and High performance heatsink to cool down the heat effectively

Massively Parallel Physics Architecture: Highly tuned multi-core complex optimized for dynamic, large-scale physics processing. Accelerates real-time physical motion and interaction at a scale and quality far beyond what's possible with CPU or GPU

Universal Continuous Collision Detection: Enables entire environments to be interactive and destructible with massive scale of collisions and response between fast moving objects

Physical smart particle technology: Empowers tens of thousands of realistic smart particle calculations of volume, density and pressure for pervasive fluids, smoke rain and debris

Complex Object Physics System: Drives physics processing beyond a few primitive shapes and simple effects to more accurate and realistic representations of physical objects and interactions

Scalable Terrain Fidelity: Delivers physical landscape accuracy and genuine surface reactions for true environmental experiences

Dynamic Gaming Framework: Flexible Ageia PhysX hardware architecture provides an upgrade path to tomorrow's powerful feature and performance enhancement via software

ASUS Bamboo Notebook(2)

2009-01-06T09:57:00.000-08:00

ASUS Super Hybrid Engine: A Next Generation Breakthrough in Power Efficiency All of the ASUS Bamboo Series notebook's power does not come at the expense of the environment. On the contrary, the ASUS Bamboo Series notebook – as with the new generation of ASUS notebooks released to market from the second half of 2008 – is remarkably energy-efficient, thanks to the implementation of ASUS' exclusive Super Hybrid Engine technology, which is the product of a comprehensive redesigning of the hardware, software and BIOS on the part of ASUS' engineers.

The most remarkable breakthrough of Super Hybrid Engine is that it accords users the control they need to obtain their desired level of performance – either improving power efficiency or boosting performance by the same technology core. In terms of power efficiency improvement, Super Hybrid Engine can extend battery life between 35% and 70% as compared to notebooks with the same specifications but without the technology, and yet enable users to boost their systems' performance by up to 23%. It achieves this by intelligently monitoring the power requirements of the notebook's components and automatically adjusting the power levels in real-time to match the current consumption needs, thus optimizing both system performance and power efficiency. Users are also given the option of selecting from a number of presets manually to ensure that the notebook conforms to the owner's usage demands.

With the accrued power savings, Super Hybrid Engine reduces yearly CO2 emission by 12.3kg per notebook. Given that ASUS ships approximately 6 million notebooks per year, this works out to a massive 73.8 million kilograms of CO2 emission reduced per year, which equates to saving 36 million trees annually.

Bamboo as an Alternative Material: The Natural ChoiceASUS has achieved international renown for its research into, and inspired use of, biodegradable materials such as leather in its products, but its decision to embrace bamboo is nothing short of ingenious. Through the use of bamboo which has an immense tensile strength that rivals that of many metal alloys, the ASUS Bamboo Series notebook is highly resilient – an attribute proven conclusively by the fact that it is the first notebook to have survived the unforgiving conditions of snow-capped Qomolangma Peak, which stands at a staggering height of 8,848 meters (29,028 feet). Bamboo also has a renewal rate that no other plant can match. It has been known to grow 60cm in just 24 hours, reaching its maximum height in several years. Bamboo is also capable of regenerating itself upon harvesting without necessitating replanting, making it possibly the perfect renewable resource.

It's Easy Being GreenThe crux of the message borne by the ASUS Bamboo Series notebook is that “it's easy being green". This message resonates at both the consumer and solution provider strata. For consumers, being green is a simple matter of making smart, environmentally-conscious purchasing decisions. Choosing the ASUS Bamboo Series notebook – or any of ASUS' notebooks, all of which were designed and manufactured in strict adherence to the same rigorous green policies and standards that governed the development of the ASUS Bamboo Series notebook – over less green alternatives, will help to preserve the Earth in no small measure.

For solution providers, the key to going green entails looking beyond mere legal compliance and proactively inculcating green values among staff. ASUS is the beacon of success for this approach. In relation to the ASUS Bamboo Series notebook for instance, staff spanning the research and development, strategy development, manufacturing, procurement, quality control, sales and marketing and even administrative departments rallied behind a common raft of green principles set by a steering committee headed by the Chairman of ASUSTek Computer Inc., Jonney Shih. This was only made possible by the company-wide green design, manufacturing and procurement systems that ASUS has in place, as well as its considerable investment into green-oriented e-learning platforms and staff education programs.

information from http://www.asus.com/news_show.aspx?id=12577

ASUS Bamboo Notebook

2009-01-06T09:45:00.000-08:00

ASUS Spurs Green Computing Revolution with Bamboo Series Notebook

Launch of Bamboo-clad Notebook Underlines ASUS' Commitment to, and Leadership in, the Drive towards Environmentally Sustainable IT

Taipei, Taiwan, August 28, 2008 – ASUS, recognized as a highly environmental friendly company in the Computers and Peripherals Industry by oekom in 2007*, today launched the ASUS Bamboo Series notebook, a groundbreaking bamboo-clad product that is truly green throughout every phase of its life – from its conception, production and use to its eventual recycling and disposal. In developing the ASUS Bamboo Series notebook, ASUS staff at all levels leveraged the full spectrum of environmental expertise that the company has accumulated since 2002 when it initiated its Green ASUS drive – before the RoHS and WEEE directives were enforced – and utilized the comprehensive green product design and management tools specifically created to encourage the disciplined adherence to green principles at a systemic level.

The ASUS Bamboo Series is a major milestone for ASUS and the IT industry at large, as it signals the coming of age of green technologies that are no longer confined to the conceptual realm, and that are implementable on a mass production scale. It also serves as a tangible manifestation of ASUS' commitment to continually bolstering its green capabilities. Finally, it is proof positive that meeting the demands of modern computing can be reconciled with the need to preserve the Earth, especially when a green mentality has become deeply ingrained in the solution provider's culture – just as it has at ASUS.

The ASUS Bamboo Series notebook: A Seamless Marriage of Art and EngineeringThe first thing about the ASUS Bamboo Series notebook that commands immediate and unfailing attention is its artisan-grade Moso bamboo paneling, which is crafted with the precision and care typically associated with bamboo instruments and arts and crafts. The organic tactility, refreshing scent and minimalist aesthetics of bamboo lend the ASUS Bamboo Series notebook an arresting aura of spirituality, warmth and old world charm that synthetic materials and cold, impersonal metals will struggle to replicate. With every touch, users will be able to feel the difference – the bamboo gives an instant sense of familiarity, just like the sensation one would get from running one's fingertips across furniture. The sensation of being close to nature is even conveyed when users use the touch pad. The genuine bamboo fiber patterns on the touch pad create the sensation of touching live bamboo. Furthermore – like any piece of original art – every ASUS Bamboo Series notebook is unique, each with its own natural patterning that is brought out beautifully by ASUS' proprietary manufacturing process. The air of individuality of each piece can be further enhanced by several treatments that yield different colors, or by laser etching distinctive designs onto the ASUS Bamboo Series notebook's bamboo-clad cover.

The ultra slim ASUS Bamboo Series notebook is currently available in two versions: a 12.1" model that weighs 1.57kg and an 11.1" model that weighs a mere 1.25kg. Both house Intel® Core™2 Duo processors and are fitted with DDRII RAM.

LG KS660

2009-01-06T09:35:00.000-08:00

LG KS660

LG's first dual-SIM phone, the LG KS660 comes with a large 3" 400 x 240 pixel touchscreen and a 5 megapixel

LG are only the second major manufacturer to launch a dual-SIM device such as this, and the closest competitor to the KS660 is going to be the Samsung D980 DuoS which has a smaller screen.

One obvious major drawback we can see with the KS660 is that it is a GSM-only device. Neither LG nor Samsung have been able to create a dual-SIM handset that does 3G, and this is a shame because a phone like the KS660 would lend itself to high-speed downloads and uploads quite well.

As with the Samsung DuoS range, the KS660 seems to be aimed at Russia and surrounding countries as LG say that the handwriting recognition supports English, Ukrainian, Russian, Kazakh, Lithuanian and Estonian languages. There's no word on exact specifications, pricing or availability at present.

information from http://www.mobilegazette.com/lg-ks660-gd910-08x12x29.htm

Get a storage

2009-01-02T03:14:00.000-08:00

Get a storage
ardCompactFlash and SD cards allow you to store music or video that you can listen to or watch on your PDA. CompactFlash cards are cheaper than SD models, but are also physically larger.

Keep connectivity in mindPDAs with built-in Wi-Fi, an integrated cell phone, and/or Bluetooth will help you get more done with fewer wires. If you plan on managing e-mail or consulting the Web while on the road, check the connectivity options closely.

Shopping tips for buying a basic organizer

2009-01-02T03:13:00.000-08:00

Shopping tips for buying a basic organizer
Choose your OSIf you simply need to maintain an up-to-date appointment calendar, contact list, and to-do list when you are away from your PC, your best bet is to stick with a low-end Palm OS device such as the Palm Z22. It will also handle other applications (which can come in handy), but its easy-to-use data synchronization stands out. This model costs only $99.

Consider spending a little extra for additional memory or an expansion slotThat way you'll have room to grow when you want to add new software or store more photos or MP3s.

Extend your PDA's capabilities with third-party softwareThousands of applications have been written for Palm PDAs and are available for downloading at sites like PalmGear.com. One of the most popular titles, DataViz's Documents to Go, allows you to edit Word and Excel documents and view PowerPoint files on your Palm-based PDA. Overall, you'll find much more third-party software written for the Palm OS than for Pocket PC devices, though FreewarePPC.com has a good selection of free apps for Windows Mobile handhelds.

Shopping tips for buying a PDA with advanced features
Choose your OSBecause of their familial relationship with Windows, Windows Mobile-based devices have been gathering enterprise support more quickly than Palm-based devices. But newer Palm OS-based devices such as the Treo 650 are catching up, since they have integrated cell phones, the ability to play digital audio and video, and the ability to display digital photographs. (If the Treo hardware appeals to you, be sure to look at Verizon's Treo 700. This is the first-ever Palm device to run Windows Mobile). In the end, as long as your corporate IT department isn't calling the shots, your choice of operating system will come down to your preference, so try out both platforms at a local electronics store and see which works best for you. In general Palm-based PDAs are easier to use, while Windows Mobile PDAs interface better with Microsoft Office desktop apps and come in a wider selection of models.

Somewhat Important:

2009-01-02T03:12:00.001-08:00

Somewhat Important:
Internal StorageExpect 32MB or even less on entry-level models, and 64MB each of RAM and ROM at the high end. Flash ROM, which stores important data (contact info, for example) that you won't lose if the battery runs dry, is increasingly common in pricier models. If you plan to play MP3 files, download video clips or software, or work on large spreadsheets, you'll want either a lot of internal memory or an external memory slot (see above).

Important Consideration Somewhat Important

2009-01-02T03:11:00.000-08:00

Important Consideration:
ConnectivityDon't expect e-mail or Web access on a very inexpensive entry-level device. Mid- and upper-range models might include Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or an integrated phone connection. A PDA that connects to the Internet can be very useful for checking e-mail, messaging friends or clients, or surfing the Web.

Somewhat Important: Screen and Resolution
Expect color on all but the oldest or very cheapest handhelds. You will, however, see a difference in screen resolutions: Cheap Palms have 160 by 160 screens, while midrange and expensive models boast 320 by 320 screens. Some high-end Windows Mobile devices have quarter-VGA (320 by 480) screens. BlackBerry devices have high-resolution screens of unconventional resolutions.
In general, you'll want better quality if you plan on viewing or capturing video and still photos, playing games, or simply making heavy use of your device.

from http://tech.msn.com/products/article.aspx?cp-documentid=2746114&page=4

Important Consideration: Operating System

2009-01-02T03:10:00.001-08:00

Important Consideration: Operating System

The operating system is the software that performs a PDA's basic functions. Palm software is less complex, but Windows Mobile has portable versions of Microsoft Office applications and Windows Media Player. Devices based on RIM's BlackBerry operating system have become increasingly popular.

Palm has tended to dominate the entry-level market with its inexpensive (and unconnected) Zires. But an increasing number of Windows Mobile devices are debuting at midrange prices ($150 to $200). While Treos introduced early in 2006 commanded a premium, newer models are going to be slightly less expensive, the company says. Sophisticated, phone-like BlackBerry models such as the Pearl are also pricey.

Important Consideration: External Memory Slot

2009-01-02T03:09:00.002-08:00

Important Consideration: External Memory Slot

External memory cards allow you to store music, photos, videos, or applications; some also let you add peripherals such as Wi-Fi adapters. Having more than one slot can be better; some higher-end devices offer two slots so you can use one for storage and the other for a peripheral. Only the most inexpensive devices have no storage card slot. Nowadays SD Cards are the most popular media, though many older devices still use CompactFlash cards.

from http://tech.msn.com/products/article.aspx?cp-documentid=2746114&page=4

The Specs Explained

2009-01-02T03:09:00.001-08:00

The Specs Explained

You don't have to spend a fortune to obtain a useful PDA, especially if you're mostly interested in keeping track of your schedule, having your address book handy, and perhaps playing a few simple games. Lots of inexpensive personal organizers can handle those tasks. You'll pay more if you want a nicer screen, more on-board memory, or more advanced functions such as wireless connectivity. Those traits are most useful if you plan to use your PDA for entertainment--playing sophisticated games, displaying video clips or snapshots, or playing MP3s--as well as managing e-mail and messaging for work, and browsing the Web.

from http://tech.msn.com/products/article.aspx?cp-documentid=2746114&page=4

RIM's BlackBerry

2009-01-02T03:07:00.002-08:00

RIM's BlackBerry
Research In Motion's BlackBerry devices use a fairly expensive BlackBerry Enterprise Server to synchronize e-mail and calendar items with major enterprise-collaboration environments such as Microsoft Exchange (Outlook) and Lotus Domino (Notes). BlackBerry devices can wirelessly send and receive e-mail, and a growing number of the models also double as cell phones.

Unlike most Palm and Windows Mobile devices, Blackberry PDAs use thumb keyboards and jog-wheel navigation.

Whatever your choice, try to kick the tires before you buy. Check to see how well you can read the screen with the backlight off--or outside on a sunny day. If the unit has a keyboard, try it out for size. Make sure the buttons are reasonably comfortable and solid. Fiddle with the navigation--how easy is it to do what you want to do?

If you're looking for a cell phone and a PDA, you should consider a PDA/phone so that you don't end up lugging around two separate devices. If you tend to be on the road a lot and need to check your e-mail regularly, you might also consider models that offer Internet access--through a built-in cell-phone modem, a Bluetooth connection to a cell phone, or built-in 802.11b or 802.11g Wi-Fi.

from http://tech.msn.com/products/article.aspx?cp-documentid=2746114&page=3

2009-01-02T03:07:00.001-08:00

GPS

With GPS-driven car navigation systems gaining in popularity, a couple of vendors (Garmin International, HP, and Pharos) have created PDAs with integrated GPS receivers and bundled navigation software, which provide voice-based turn-by-turn directions and maps. Typically you can't yet get both integrated GPS and integrated Wi-Fi in the same unit, but a small and growing number of devices are bundling both technologies--and sometimes Bluetooth and cell phone radios as well. If you want to add Wi-Fi or GPS, you should be able to do so via third-party products that connect either via Bluetooth (in the case of GPS) or through the handheld's expansion (SD) card slot.

Cameras

2009-01-02T03:06:00.000-08:00

Cameras

Many current PDAs include built-in cameras similar to those found in camera phones. PDA cameras let you take a quick snapshot of something (or someone) in moderately bright light. Resolution ranges from VGA (640 by 480 pixels) to a growing number of 1- and even 2-megapixel models. But don't expect beautiful, Annie Leibovitz-quality photos with a PDA camera. In some cases, you'll be lucky if you can make out what you've snapped, even if the device includes an LED flash to illuminate the scene. But in a crunch, a PDA camera can be a useful feature.

Battery power

2009-01-02T03:05:00.000-08:00

Battery power

Modern PDAs include built-in batteries that you recharge by either placing the PDA in a docking cradle or, increasingly, hooking it up to a combination syncing/recharging cable. The battery life depends largely on the size and brightness of the screen, the applications you run, and whether you're using Wi-Fi (a big battery-life drain). Battery life can be anything from a couple of hours to 10 hours.

Screen type

2009-01-02T03:04:00.001-08:00

Screen type
Bright color screens have become the norm even for low-end PDAs, and screen resolution has become a differentiating factor: While Windows Mobile displays once laid claim to having the highest-resolution color screens (quarter-VGA, or QVGA, screens with 320-by-240-pixel resolution) --some Palm OS-powered PDAs now offer 320-by-320- or even 320-by-480-pixel resolution (compared with 160-by-160-pixel resolution on older or less expensive models).

Not all color screens are created equal: The screens on cheaper models generally aren't as crisp and sharp as those on more expensive units. That's why it's a good idea to check out the model you're considering in person before you buy.

Input (keyboard or stylus)

2009-01-02T03:03:00.001-08:00

Input (keyboard or stylus)

The handwriting-recognition capabilities of Palm and Windows Mobile devices have improved over the years, and all PDAs that support handwriting recognition come with a virtual hunt-and-peck software-based keyboard. Some models with integrated thumb keyboards still support these traditional touch-screen input methods. However, Palm's Windows Mobile- and Palm-based Treos (phone hybrids with integrated keyboards) do not support handwriting recognition even though they have touch screens. Nor does the BlackBerry OS. Many users who want to use a PDA in place of a notebook have turned to one of several third-party add-on keyboards.

Internal memory (RAM)

2009-01-02T03:01:00.002-08:00

Internal memory (RAM)
Basic organizer functions (appointments, alarms, contact lists, tasks, and memos) don't require much memory. The 32MB amount that comes with the lowest-end current Palm--the $99 Z22--is adequate if these tasks are all you want to do. Third-party software such as utilities and games quickly eat up RAM, however, so look for a model with 64MB or more of RAM--or a model that accepts Secure Digital (SD) memory cards (see below)--if you plan to load lots of extra programs or you want to store lots of media for playback. Newer Palms include ROM for storing the OS and key vital data such as contacts, so that you don't lose them if the battery runs down.

Applications on Windows Mobile devices require more memory, especially to play audio or video. The specs for today's Windows Mobile PDAs usually specify two types of internal memory: RAM and flash-based ROM. The ROM is where the PDA stores the OS and vital data such as contact information. If your batteries run down and your device loses power, the data in ROM is unaffected. RAM, on the other hand, requires power--if you lose power, you lose data in RAM. Most software runs in RAM, so the more you multitask on a Windows Mobile PDA, the more RAM you'll want. Look for a unit with at least 64MB each of ROM and RAM.

Almost all Windows Mobile devices come with external card slots. CompactFlash used to be the dominant expansion format, but SD Card has become more common. Some models accept both CompactFlash and SD Card formats. These slots can also connect to add-ons such as cameras, audio players, phones, or GPS receivers.

from http://tech.msn.com/products/article.aspx?cp-documentid=2746114&page=2

PDA CPUs

2009-01-02T03:01:00.001-08:00

PDA CPUs
There was a time when nobody paid attention to PDA processors, in part because they were fairly low powered to conserve battery life, and also in part because they are embedded. In other words, you can't upgrade or replace them the way you might be able to swap out a chip on a PC motherboard. But the mobile CPU business has become more competitive, thanks in no small part to Intel's entry into the market (Intel sold its handheld chip business to Marvell several months ago). PDA vendors have begun to promote the chips that power their handhelds--and savvy buyers know that a powerful chip can make for snappy performance in a high-end device.

Intel's XScale ARM processors have been upping the ante in this arena. The latest processors--the PXA27x family, previously code-named Bulverde--can run at up to 624 MHz and are available either with or without integrated memory. Texas Instruments and Samsung also compete in the PDA processor market, with TI focusing primarily on connected devices. Following its acquisition of Intel's handheld processor unit, Marvell (previously best known as a Wi-Fi chip maker), is expected to compete vigorously as well.

from http://tech.msn.com/products/article.aspx?cp-documentid=2746114&page=2

Windows Mobile vs. Palm OS

2009-01-02T02:59:00.000-08:00

Windows Mobile vs. Palm OS
How you plan to use a PDA will best determine which operating system you choose. Palm OS-based devices, mostly found on PDAs from Palm, provide the simpler approach. Out of the box, Palm devices will synchronize appointments and contacts with the Palm OS's proprietary personal information manager desktop software, the Palm Desktop. Most Palm OS vendors also bundle a program that syncs your data with Microsoft Outlook. To create and edit Microsoft Office-compatible documents on a Palm OS device, you will need third-party software such as Dataviz's Documents to Go (bundled with some Palm devices) or Cutting Edge Software's Quickoffice.

Microsoft's Windows Mobile OS (the latest version is Windows Mobile 5, usually with a device-specific patch) basically looks like a considerably shrunken version of the desktop Windows OS. It can run numerous applications simultaneously--though only one app can appear on screen at a time. Unlike the Palm OS, which shuts down one application (or runs it in the background as appropriate) when you open another, Windows Mobile requires you to manually close an application or it will run in the background and use up memory you might want for other purposes. (The latest Windows Mobile devices have a memory manager that lets you see what applications are running and how much memory they are using.) Windows Mobile generally requires more memory than the Palm OS, so most Windows Mobile 5 PDAs come with at least 64MB of ROM and an equal amount of RAM.

The Windows Mobile OS is more complex to use than the Palm OS. But with most keyboard-equipped Windows Mobile devices, you also get pared-down versions of Microsoft Office apps such as Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint--letting you create and edit documents as you would on your desktop. When you synchronize your Windows Mobile PDA with your PC, documents on each are updated accordingly. The integrated Windows Media Player 10 in Windows Mobile 5 handles MP3, WMA, and other multimedia files; it also allows you to run content from subscription sites (such as Rhapsody) that use Microsoft's Digital Rights Management technology. A growing number of vendors are offering Windows Mobile devices. Hewlett-Packard has historically offered the greatest variety, but more competitors are emerging--particularly in the PDA/phone arena.

from http://tech.msn.com/products/article.aspx?cp-documentid=2746114&page=2

Key Features

2009-01-02T02:58:00.000-08:00

Key Features
PlatformMost PDAs run on one of two major operating systems, or platforms: the Palm OS from PalmSource (now a subsidiary of the Japanese firm Access) and Microsoft's increasingly popular Windows Mobile OS. Some devices run on other platforms--most notably Research In Motion's BlackBerry--but the Palm OS and Windows Mobile still dominate the market.

Though these platforms used to be distinct, the differences have diminished--to the point where Palm now makes its Treo PDA/phones for both Palm OS and Windows Mobile platforms. PDAs based on early versions of the Palm OS were simpler, lower-cost devices, and these days the most inexpensive Palms are still cheaper than the lowest-end Windows Mobile PDAs. But Palm's high-end models today match the Windows Mobile offerings in such features as cameras and Internet connectivity. And while all PDAs based on Windows Mobile used to be relatively expensive across the board, today you can find models that compete directly with midrange Palms.

Both are also taking on increasingly capable models based on the BlackBerry OS, which continues to set the gold standard for mobile e-mail management, and Symbian, the OS used by Nokia. The main drawback here is relative scarcity of third-party applications for these OSs; if you're content with the apps you get with these devices, this may not be a problem.

from http://tech.msn.com/products/article.aspx?cp-documentid=2746114&page=2

The Big Picture (2)

2009-01-02T02:57:00.000-08:00

The Big Picture
Formerly just handy pocket secretaries, PDAs have become ever more versatile. Modern PDAs can handle wireless e-mail and instant messaging, digital photography, music, and even video. Increasingly, businesspeople who spend a lot of time on the road are replacing standard cell phones with PDA-phone hybrids such as a Palm Treo, a RIM BlackBerry, or a Windows Mobile-based model. (If you're interested in such a device, be sure to read "How to Buy a Cell Phone" as well.)

While PDAs of one type or another have been around for about a decade, technological advances have made them more versatile at the high end and more affordable at the low end. And these days, all PDAs, regardless of price, are thin, lightweight, and generally small enough to fit easily into a pocket.

The processors that power PDAs are faster than they used to be, so PDAs can now handle digital music and photos with ease. High-end models now sport mobile graphics processors that enable gaming and video playback without a huge sacrifice in battery life. At the other end of the price spectrum, even lower-cost units come with color screens. And a growing number of mid- and high-range units sport integrated mini-keyboards (also known as thumb keyboards), a welcome development for users who want to use their PDAs for e-mail or messaging and feel slowed down by styluses and handwriting-recognition software.

The ability to communicate wirelessly enhances a PDA's overall utility. Many of the midrange units incorporate 802.11b or the faster 802.11g Wi-Fi for accessing home or work networks or commercial hotspots. Even more PDAs are equipped with Bluetooth, which can connect to desktop or laptop PCs, to peripherals (such as headsets or printers), or to the Internet through a suitably equipped cell phone. One of the latest trends in PDAs is the inclusion of integrated GPS receivers and software that allows the handheld to double as a navigation device, either in a car or when you're walking around an unfamiliar city.

information http://tech.msn.com/products/article.aspx?cp-documentid=2746114

The Big PicturePDAs

2009-01-02T02:56:00.001-08:00

The Big PicturePDAs range from simple, unconnected devices designed primarily to replace pocket address books and calendars to powerful devices with lots of memory, wireless connectivity, integrated cameras and keyboards, and graphics muscle for playing music and video. Here, we'll discuss the main issues you need to think about, such as PDA operating systems and how much memory you need.
The Specs Explained We'll address the CPUs used in handhelds, screen resolution, and internal versus external memory--and tell you how important each feature is to your purchase.
PDA Shopping Tips How much memory does your PDA need? What about the different operating systems? Find the answers to these questions and more in PC World's buying advice.

information http://tech.msn.com/products/article.aspx?cp-documentid=2746114

How to Buy a PDA

2009-01-02T02:54:00.000-08:00

How to Buy a PDA

Ready to get your life in order? Then maybe it's time to get a personal digital assistant. These small, lightweight devices can keep track of your appointments, phone numbers, and to-do lists, usually syncing with Microsoft Outlook or other desktop organizer software. Today's PDAs can also keep you amused with games, music, and video; a growing number have built-in cameras, and a few newer ones integrate GPS receivers as well. Even entry-level PDAs now have color screens, and all but the most inexpensive models also let you track e-mail, browse the Web, and send instant or text messages via built-in wireless Internet connectivity--Bluetooth (for connecting via a Bluetooth cell phone), Wi-Fi, and/or (in the case of PDA-phone hybrids) cellular networks. At the high end, a couple of models support two or three modes of wireless connection, so you can enjoy broadband speeds at Wi-Fi hotspots and increasingly speedy cellular hookups almost anyplace else.

Sony CLIÉ PEG-UX50

2009-01-02T01:36:00.000-08:00

The PEG-UX50 Personal Entertainment Communicator features dual Wireless integration in a compact and lightweight design. Powered by Palm OS 5, the UX50 is powerful, portable, and easy to use!With both 802.11b WiFi and Bluetooth built-in, the UX50 offers two methods of wireless communication for maximum flexibility. Connect to a wireless LAN network using 802.11b WiFi, and you can check e-mail, access the Internet, or HotSync with a PC on the network wirelessly. By pairing the UX50 with other Bluetooth enabled devices you can transfe

Product Type Handheld

Built-in Devices Microphone, speaker, keyboard, display, camera, Jog Dial

Width 4.1 in

Depth 0.7 in
Height 3.5 in
Weight 6.2 oz

Processor Sony Handheld Engine CXD2230GA 123 MHz

Display
Display Type TFT active matrix
Image 16-bit (64K colors)
Display Resolution 480 x 320

Audio
Voice Recording Capability Yes
Audio Output Speaker(s)
Supported Digital Audio Formats MP3, ATRAC3
Audio Input Microphone

Operating System / Software
OS Provided Palm OS 5.2

Software Address Book, Date Book, To Do List, Memo Pad, Calculator, Palm Reader, Security, Voice Recorder, powerOne Personal, HotSync, Movie Player, PhotoStand, Intellisync Lite 4.0, Sound Utility, QuickTime 5.0.2, Audio Player, Card Info, CLIÉ Mail, World Alarm Clock, AcidSolitaire (Trial), Bejeweled (Trial), StreetFinder Express (Trial), Vindigo (Trial), WorldMate (Trial), CLIÉ Camera, Contacts Pro (Trial), BalanceLog (Trial), powerOne Finance (Trial), Photo Editor, Movie Recorder, NetFront, CLIÉ Album, CLIÉ Memo, CLIÉ Viewer, PictureGear Studio, CLIÉ Files, SonicStage 1.5, SMS, Adobe Acrobat Reader 5.1, CLIÉ Demo, Launcher, Macromedia Flash Player 5, Remote Camera, Palm Desktop 4.1 for PC, Picsel Technologies Picsel Viewer, CLIÉ Launcher, Decuma Input, Visto MessageXpress (Trial), Agendus (Trial), Data Export 1.0 for PC, Data Import, Image Converter 1.1 for PC

Power
Power Device Power adapter
Voltage Required AC 120/230 V

The Aiptek™ Pocket DV4500

2009-01-02T01:27:00.000-08:00

The Aiptek™ Pocket DV4500 digital camcorder offers a 6-in-1 multifunction design with a digital still camera, digital camcorder, MP3 player, PC camera, voice recorder, removable hard disk and compact Flash card reader. Equipped with a 2 MP CMOS sensor, the still image resolution of the Pocket DV4500 is enhanced to 4 MP to deliver high-quality photographs.

High Compression MPEG-4 for Recording Movies: MPEG-4 is the ideal way to store video clips in a highly compact format. Share them over the internet by e-mail, posting on web pages or viewing on PC or television.
MP3 Player: Load your favorite MP3 files and playback the music directly or enjoy stereo quality music via the headset
1.5" TFT Color LCD Display: Review and playback video clips and pictures in real time
Flash Strobe: Built-in flash strobe allows you to take snapshots in darker environments
Digital Zoom: 4x real time digital zoom allows you to Zoom In/Out while recording video
Playback Options: Connect the Pocket DV4500M to your TV/VCR to playback video clips and/or pictures, or playback directly on the built-in 1.5" color LCD
Removable Hard Disk and Compact FlashCard Reader: In addition to the internal memory, the Pocket DV4500M also allows you to expand the memory capacity to record and snapshot
Take Pictures and Videos in Black and White: Add a touch of art to your pictures and/or videos by shooting them in Black and White

Specifications

Hardware Resolution: 2304 x 1728 Pixels (4 Mega Pixel) (interpolated)
Sensor Effective Resolution: 1600 x 1200 Pixels (2 Mega Pixel)
Video Resolution: 640 x 480 Pixels (VGA) up to 20 fps; 352 x 288 Pixels (CIF) up to 30 fps
Video Conferencing: 640 x 480 Pixels (up to 10 fps); 320 x 240 Pixels (up to 24 fps)
LCD: 1.5" TFT Color LCD Display (Preview and Playback)
Digital Zoom: 4x
Internal Memory: 16 MB Flash Memory
AV Output: Supports NTSCTV System
Voice Annotation: Up to 1 hour (using internal memory)
Self-Timer: 10 seconds
Image Format: JPEG, MPEG-4
Exposure: Auto, Auto White Balance
Focus: Macro: 40 cm / Normal: 250 cm to Infinity
Image Control: Auto Exposure and Auto White Balance
Computer Interface: USB 1.1
Power Saving: Auto Power Off if Idle over 60 seconds
Power Source: 2 AA Alkaline Batteries; USB Port when Plugged into PC
Camera Dimensions: 3.86" x 2.57" x 1.28"
External Memory: Built-in CF Card Slot (Max. 512 MB) (Not Included)
Flash: Built-in Flash Strobe
Microphone: Built-in Microphone
Speaker: Built-in Speaker and Headset Connector

Winegard HD7698P

2009-01-02T01:25:00.001-08:00

Listen to music anywhere without the hassle and restriction of speaker wires when using the Cables Unlimited® Wireless Speakers with Remote. The powerful 900 MHz transmitter sends audio signals without speaker wire up to 150 ft away from the audio source. The speakers are perfect for the outdoor picnic or celebration. And if it rains, you don't need to worry thanks to a waterproof seal on each speaker.

900 MHz transmitter sends audio signals without speaker wire
Connect to your computer for remote listening
Weatherproof for outdoor listening
Speaker can be up to 150 ft away from audio source
Compact and portable with a stylized design
Phase Loop Lock circuitry automatically locks in and keeps audio signal clear and strong

The GE® HO98064

2009-01-02T01:23:00.001-08:00

The GE® HO98064 Easycam Pro™ can broadcast full-screen videos through Windows® MediaPlayer® and allow you to meet face-to-face with friends or family online using Microsoft® NetMeeting®. You can record videos for a digital album and use the snap shot button on the camera for still photos

Broadcast full-screen videos that can play through Windows® MediaPlayer®
Meet face-to-face with friends or family online using Microsoft® NetMeeting®
Record videos for a digital album or share with friends and family online
Activity light shows when Easycam™ is sending messages to PC
Snap shot button on camera for still photos
Easy-to-use focus ring ensures crystal-clear videos
Stable base
Compact, portable and lightweight
Sensor: CMOS with 300k pixels
Resolution up to 640 x 480
30 FPS video frame rate
24 bit, RGB true color requires computer with USB port
266 MHz processor
32 MB RAM
CD-ROM drive
2-year limited manufacturer's warranty

The Cobra Digital DC325

2009-01-02T01:20:00.000-08:00

The Cobra® Digital DC325 does triple duty as a VGA digital camera, PC camera at 15 fps, and camcorder that takes 10-second video clips.

Output Resolution: 640x480 (High) or 352x288 Pixels (Low)
Image Sensor: 300K Pixel CMOS Sensor
Internal Memory: 2MB (SDRAM)
Image Storage: 16 to 56 Pictures depending on resolution chosen
Shutter Speed: 1/6 - 1/15000 second
Viewfinder: Optical
Menu Screen: LCD on back of Camera
Auto Functions: Shutdown/Exposure/White Balance
3 in 1 Mode: Digital Camera/PC Camera/Camcorder
Camcorder: 10 Second Video Clip
PC Camera: 15 Frames/Second
Interface: USB version 1.1
Power Source: AAA 1.5V X 2 (not included)
File Format: JPEG AVI
Package Contains: Camera, User Manual, ArcSoft Edit Software, USB Cable
System Requirements: Windows 98SE/2000/ME/XP

F5D8010 Wireless

2009-01-02T01:19:00.000-08:00

Free your life of wires and connect your laptop to the world with the Belkin® F5D8010 Wireless PRE-N Notebook Adapter, which delivers 800% greater reception than a standard 802.11g adapter. Anytime the adapter senses potential interference, it automatically shifts to the best available wireless signal.

Model Number: BKNF5D8010
800% greater coverage than standard 802.11g & 600% greater speeds than standard 802.11g
Increases wireless coverage up to 20% when using adapter with older 802.11g or 802.11b networking products
Senses potential interference & dynamically shifts to the clearest wireless channel available
Continues to transmit at a link rate of 108 Mbps
Wi-Fi protected access support provides enhanced encryption protecting wireless networks
6 months of free pop-up, adware & spyware stopper

iPhone

2009-01-02T01:17:00.000-08:00

Griffin Elan Sleeve encases your iPhone™ in full-grain leather for a sleek custom fit. Tough but in a good way, it's a case for iPhone™ with two distinct sides. On the inside, Elan Sleeve coddles your iPhone™ with embossed, no-scratch suede. But outside that soft interior is a tough, full-grain leather that leaves the iPhone™ touchscreen, controls, audio jack and camera lens free and clear.

Removable two-way clip to attach the case to a bag, briefcase or backpack strap for multiple carrying options
Included static peel screen protector and premium cleaning cloth

The Nokia® N76

2009-01-02T01:06:00.000-08:00

The Nokia® N76 unlocked cell phone is a half-inch-thick smartphone on Symbian S60. It packs a 2-megapixel camera, a 3.5 mm jack for headphones to listen to music with the player, and control keys on the front cover. It also has a couple of big color displays and a microSD slot.

This product can only be shipped to an address that matches your billing address. Any order with a shipping address that does not match the billing address will be cancelled

Unlocked cell phones are "SIM Card" phones that you can use with your existing Cingular, AT&T, T-Mobile or other GSM based account. Simply remove the SIM card from your existing phone and insert it into the Unlocked Phone. Unlocked phones can replace an old or lost phone you got from your provider, or give you the ability to use a new cell phone model not offered by your provider. No new contract is needed to upgrade to a new unlocked phone. Having an unlocked phone also means you can switch providers without having to purchase a new phone! Please remember, unlocked phones are only designed to work in GSM Networks, such as Cingular, AT&T and T-Mobile. Unlocked phones will not work with CDMA carriers such as Sprint, Nextel or Verizon. Please contact your provider for further questions regarding GSM compatibility. For best results with domestic Cingular / AT&T service, select a phone that uses the GSM 850 frequency. For best results with domestic T-Mobile service, select a phone that uses the GSM 1900 frequency. If you are an international traveler, purchasing an Unlocked Phone which uses GSM 900 & GSM 1800 frequencies means you can purchase Pre-Paid SIM cards overseas and avoid high overseas usage fees charged by domestic carriers.

Main Display: 2.4-in QVGA TFT color displays (240 x 320 pixels ) with up to 16 million colors
Cover Display: 1.36-in TFT color display (160 x 128 pixels) with up to 262,144 colors
Ambient light detector to optimize operating times
S60 user interface 3rd Edition
Quick cover keys allow you to play music and snap pictures without opening your phone
2 megapixel camera, 1600 x 1200 pixels image resolution with up to 20x digital zoom
Video capture in QVGA resolution with the CIF+ (common intermediate format) camera and playback up to 15 fps with up to 4x digital zoom
Video call, video sharing and video clip sharing
Integrated flash LED
Multimedia
Integrated FM radio
Integrated music player with equalizer and playlist feature for MP3/WAV/MIDI/AAC/eAAC/eAAC+/M4A/WMA formats
RealPlayer Media Player
Download and play multimedia files (video and music)
Stream media files from compatible media portals
Full-screen video playback on the phone to view downloaded, streamed, or recorded video clips in larger size
Played formats (decoding): .3gp and .mp4 file formats, MPEG-4 video, H.263 video and AMR audio, RealMedia (Real Video and Real Audio), MP3, and AAC
Video streaming, downloading, and storage
Up to 26 MB built-in memory
Options to expand up to 2 GB with microSD card
Email: Supports SMTP, POP3 and IMAP4 protocols with attachments
Chat
MMS
Picture messaging
Pop-Port™ interface to USB
Bluetooth™ 2.0
Local and remote data synchronization of calendar, contacts, to-do lists, notes, email, Microsoft Outlook® and Outlook Express®, and Lotus using SyncML
WAP 2.0 xHTML/HTML multimode browser
Nokia browser with Mini Map

HTC Touch3G

2008-12-15T18:37:00.000-08:00

HTC Touch3G

Processor Qualcomm® MSM7225™, 528 MHzOperating System Windows Mobile® 6.1 ProfessionalMemory ROM: 256 MBRAM: 192 MBDimensions (LxWxT) 102 mm X 53.6 mm X 14.5 mm(4.016 inches X 2.110 inches X 0.571 inches)Weight 96 grams (3.386 ounces) with batteryDisplay 2.8-inch TFT-LCD flat touch-sensitive screen with QVGA resolutionNetwork HSDPA/WCDMA:Europe/Asia: 900/2100 MHzUp to 384 kbps up-link and 7.2 Mbps down-link speedsQuad-band GSM/GPRS/EDGE:850/900/1800/1900 MHz(Band frequency and data speed are operator dependent.)

Device Control * HTC TouchFLO™* 4-Way navigation control with Enter buttonGPS GPS and A-GPS readyConnectivity Bluetooth® 2.0 with Enhanced Data Rate and A2DP for stereo wireless headsetsWi-Fi®: IEEE 802.11 b/gHTC ExtUSB™ (11-pin mini-USB 2.0 and audio jack in one)Camera 3.2 megapixel color camera with fixed focus

Audio Built-in microphone and speakerRing tone formats:AAC, AAC+, eAAC+, AMR-NB, AMR-WB, QCP, MP3, WMA, WAV40 polyphonic and standard MIDI format 0 and 1 (SMF)/SP MIDIBattery Rechargeable Lithium-ion batteryCapacity: 1100 mAh

Talk time:Up to 360 minutes for WCDMAUp to 400 minutes for GSMStandby time:Up to 450 hours for WCDMAUp to 365 hours for GSM(The above are subject to network and phone usage.)Expansion Slot microSD™ memory card (SD 2.0 compatible)AC Adapter Voltage range/frequency: 100 ~ 240V AC, 50/60 HzDC output: 5V and 1A

Nokia E63

2008-11-18T01:53:00.000-08:00

Nokia E63

After info on the Nokia E75 and E72 was leaked one month ago, news about another Eseries device – Nokia E63 – has now surfaced on the Internet. Although the new handset hasn't been confirmed yet, there are pictures with the device and a user agent profile available on Nokia servers, which can be viewed

The new supposedly expected Eseries handset sports GPRS, EDGE and HSDPA (3.6 or 7.2 Mbps) connectivity, a 2 Megapixel camera, but no secondary camera for video-calls, Bluetooth, WLAN, Java MIDP 2.0 and CLDC 1.1, QWERTY keyboard, a generous TFT display supporting a 240x320 pixel resolution and a 3.5mm jack connector port.

The design of the phone strongly resembles that of the latest addition to the Eseries portfolio E71. Nevertheless, there are quite a few differences in its construction, many of which could be considered of major importance, like the fact that E63 doesn't have a metallic body (except NaviKey and camera module); instead, it's totally made of plastic.

Also, E63 is a little bit thicker than the E71 and doesn't have any side buttons. As you can see from the pictures, Nokia E63 includes a micro SD card slot for memory expansion and a microUSB port for PC synchronization. However, to some, the embedded Symbian S60 3rd Edition Feature Pack 1 could seem a little bit obsolete for a such a new device.

Asus P6T Deluxe

2008-11-16T22:33:00.000-08:00

ASUS P6T Deluxe
There’s a new kid on the block, and he’s out for blood. The ASUS P6T Deluxe comes out of the gate swinging, sporting the newly release Intel X58 chipset and setting new performance standards across the board.

Introduction

is among the few computer component companies revered world-wide by enthusiasts and mainstream users alike. This reputation comes from ASUS’ ongoing dedication to delivering the highest performance and most stable products to their loyal customers. The company sustains their technological prowess through the use of cutting edge hardware and software driver innovations. Their latest motherboard innovation amply demonstrates their innovative design prowess nicely.

The ASUS P6T Deluxe motherboard is ASUS’s premier motherboard supporting the newly released Intel Core i7 processor line. The board itself is built around the Intel X58 Northbridge chipset, which supports the following technologies: Intel LGA1366 Core i7 processors, DDR3 memory operating in Triple Channel memory mode up to 1333MHz officially, and either NVIDIA SLI and ATI CrossFireX graphics mode using matched graphics cards.

The P6T Deluxe is a feature complete solution, requiring the following set of minimal components for a working system: an Intel LGA1366 Core i7 processor, DDR3 memory, a video card, drives, and a PSU. ASUS chose to include the following integrated devices in to the P6T Deluxe’s design: 6 SATA II ports (RAID 0, 1, 0+1 and 5 capable) on the Intel ICH10R controller; 1 ATA-133 IDE port and 1 eSATA port on the Marvell controller; 2 SATA II ports (RAID 0 and 1 equivalent capable) on the Marvell SAS controller; 14 USB 2.0 capable ports (8 in rear panel, and 3 onboard headers supporting 2 ports each); 2 IEEE 1394 capable ports (1 in rear panel, and 1 onboard header); 2 x Marvell Yukon GigE Ethernet ports in the rear panel; ADI 8-channel HD audio codec with S/PDIF optical and component output ports; onboard power and reset buttons; and a PS/2 keyboard/mouse port in the rear panel.

Packaging

Since this board was not a retail board sample, ASUS did not include the finalized retail box with the board nor all of the accessories that will ship with the final retail product. However, as you can see from the photo, the following accessories were included with our test sample: all-in-one SATA cables, where the power and data ports are integrated in to a single mega-connector; driver disc; rear panel shield; and the ASUS OC Palm display with USB cable. The OC Palm device allows for viewing manipulation for various hardware settings while in your OS of choice. Note that in order the OC Palm device, you must have the proper device drivers installed on the system.

ASUS N-Series

2008-11-16T22:30:00.000-08:00

ASUS N-Series

Ahh, getting a gold star feels warm and fuzzy. ASUS finally knows that feeling. While we've been somewhat underwhelmed in the past with the company's attempt at greener laptops, this incarnation looks promising.

Lenovo, Dell, HP and Toshiba have known it for awhile, scoring gold with their notebooks well before ASUS. But finally the bamboo-lovin’ computer company has broken into the club with an excellent score of 21 out of 27 optional points.

Read on for the score breakdown and a summary of this cool notebook.

The EPEAT Gold score for ASUS reads:

Reduction/Elimination of environmentally sensitive materials: 8/8

Materials selsction 0/3

Design for end of life 5/5

Product longevity 2/2

Energy conservation 0/2

End of life management 1/1

Corporate performance 2/2Packaging 3/4

We can see where ASUS needs to improve on the next go round – better material selection and better energy conservation.

Still the notebook is pretty awesome. It utilizes Super Hybrid Engine technology which preserves battery live by up to 35%. The display uses LED and so is mercury free and energy sipping. And the N series is Energy Star compliant.

Samsung G400

2008-11-16T22:25:00.000-08:00

Samsung G400

Samsung today announced the launch of Samsung G400, the latest dual screen clamshell at CeBIT in Hanover, Germany. Samsung G400 inherits the look and feel of Samsung’s flagship product Soul with unique premium exterior and graphical user interface design identity.

Similar to Soul, the Samsung G400 offers a new series of graphic user interfaces (GUI) providing three different options for users. With the GUI skin, users can change the UI according to their personal tastes. Display skins are customizable with various options such as background images, fonts and colors.
In addition to an internal 2.22 TFT LCD display, Samsung’s G400 has a 2.22" external full touch screen display. With the external full touch display, users can operate multimedia features without opening the folder and haptic vibration feedback is given when user uses full touch screen. When the phone is in idle status, users have an option of displaying wallpaper, digital clock, analogue clock, or calendar modes through the external display. Additionally, notifications for SMS/MMS as well as alarm or schedules can be viewed directly on the large external display.
Samsung G400 is equipped with the latest imaging solutions including a 5 megapixel camera with automatic face detection, image stabilizer and Wide Dynamic Range (WDR) are equipped. Users can enjoy fast Internet access through the 7.2 Mbps High Speed Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA) browser and share images or video taken with the phone. With a sub camera, users are able to enjoy video telephony under HSDPA networks.
Samsung G400 will be available in European countries from June.

Live Cam Optia AF

2008-11-11T19:49:00.000-08:00

Live Cam Optia AF

Look sharp no matter how much you move around. Live! Cam Optia AF is the only PC webcam with an autofocus lens, 2.0mp sensor, and Plug and Play functionality. Simply plug the webcam to your PC's USB port and be amazed!

Look Your Best Whether you're chatting on the web, recording a new video blog, or snapping photos, you'll want to look your best. Creative's Live! View technology automatically selects the best setting for you so that your image always looks sharp and vivid. The Smart Face Tracking feature keeps you in the frame and looking sharp no matter how much you might move around.

Record video to your PC - perfect for posting a video blog, uploading to the Internet, or creating a home movie. You won't look grainy or fuzzy using Live! Cam Optia AF. A high quality 2.0mp (1600x1200) sensor, Live! View technology, and auto tuning give you video quality you may not expect from such a compact webcam.

Sound Your Best The Live! Cam Optia AF incorporates Creative's superior audio technology by using a set of built-in adaptive array microphones. The dual microphones and Creative's exclusive Live! Audio technology cancels out background noise, so all you hear is pure voice over the Internet.

Creative Zen X-Fi

2008-11-11T19:45:00.000-08:00

The Sound of Perfection

"... beyond question a better all-around digital music player than any of Apple's current iPods." Creative Zen X-Fi MP3 PlayerAugust 18, 2008
Experience your MP3 music as the artist originally intended with ZEN X-Fi - the first player to restore the quality of compressed music with award-winning X-Fi Xtreme Fidelity Audio technology.

Indulge in rich audio where you can hear your music in crystal clear clarity. Take in guitar strumming, crisp cymbal clashes and deep pounding bass as detail lost during file compression are now beautifully restored. The built-in X-Fi technology intelligently moves a conventional left/right earphone stereo source away from your ears, virtually expanding it for an audio experience with a breathtakingly realistic depth of field. You'll feel as if you were listening to your music from a pair of high end speakers.

Sony A350 User Report

2008-11-06T10:12:00.000-08:00

Sony A350 User Report
by Shawn Barnett
The Sony Alpha A350 measures 5.25 x 4 x 3 inches (130.8 x 98.5 x 74.7mm), and weighs 24 ounces (682g) with a memory card and battery. That's just two ounces heavier than the Sony A200.
Look and feel. As on the Sony A200, a Function button on the back of the A350 brings up a simply worded Function menu for easy access to commonly changed items. The A100 had a Function dial on the top deck that was a little more difficult to use. Now you just press the Fn button and the menu appears on the LCD.
Another new button on both the Sony A350 and A300 is the Smart Teleconverter 2x zoom button. Active only in Live View mode, pressing this button first zooms the live view by approximately 1.4x, then to 2x. According to Sony literature this gives the camera's 70mm kit lens the equivalent of a 200mm zoom. Essentially, on the A350 it's cropping the image from a 14.2-megapixel image down to a 7.1-megapixel and 3.8-megapixel image, respectively without incurring the blur normally associated with digital zoom. The button does nothing else in regular Record mode or Playback mode.
The LCD is a little wider to match the 3:2 aspect ratio of the Sony A300 and A350's sensor. Note the new battery indicator icon with the numerical percent-remaining display. This LCD also swivels out away from the body to tilt down or up for easier overhead or low-angle shooting.
Essentially identical to the Sony A200, the top deck of the Sony A300 and A350 have one unique feature: the Live View/OVF (Optical ViewFinder) switch. This switch engages the Live View mode and may even move the front element of the Pentamirror forward. When compared to the Sony A100, the Sony A350 has a new ISO button, and the mode dial has moved to where the Function dial used to be.
Grip. The Sony A350's grip is different from the A200, as it has no distinct divot for the middle finger, just a soft curve. At left you can see the CF and video out door.
Left side. The Remote control and DC-in sockets are now together, covered by a rubber door that opens from the front. Upper left in the now-traditional location is the manual flash release button, which activates an electronic switch to let the flash pop up. Lower left is the autofocus selector switch.
Missing from the front of the Sony A350 is the depth-of-field preview button, which was present on the A100. Sony might have thought it wasn't worth the extra cost for a feature that most consumers won't know how to use. Frankly, I seldom use the feature myself on other SLRs. It's hard to see much difference in such a small viewfinder, and it's easier to just snap a shot and zoom in on the larger LCD screen. Whatever the reason, it's good to consider if optical depth-of-field preview is important to you. Though that begs for such a feature with the Live View mode, I doubt the tiny secondary sensor would do much better than my eye with the lens stopped down.
Sony A350/A300 Live View
Sliding that Live View switch forward does several things at once. First, it moves the mirror to reflect the light to the secondary sensor inside the pentamirror housing. Second, the same motion closes a shutter inside the optical viewfinder to prevent stray light from entering and affecting either the Live View image or the exposure. (Other manufacturers have this as an optional separate step, which I think is a mistake, because it's too easy to forget to close the shutter.) Finally, it turns on the Live View sensor and the LCD to give you a real-world live image that's in-keeping with the spirit of the SLR. The beauty of the system is that the Sony A300 and A350 only use the secondary sensor to get a live image to the LCD, not for autofocus. Since it happens in the normal SLR pathway, the normal autofocus system is not interrupted as it is on Live View systems that use the main capture sensor, so there's no blackout, and autofocus is as fast as the system can produce regardless of the viewfinder mode.
Optical Viewfinder. A normal pentamirror arrangement reflects the light out the optical viewfinder eyepiece.
Sony Live View mode. With a simple shift of one of the mirrors, Sony deflects the image up to another optic that reflects the image onto a secondary sensor. Because no partially silvered mirrors are used, the image is fairly bright.
The only disadvantage could be that if the Live View sensor or its optical components are slightly out of alignment with the main sensor, what you see in Live View might not be what you get in the final image.
Sony A350 Live View with Tilting LCD
Sony Swivel LCD. Though it's a shame it doesn't face more angles, the Sony A350 and A300's LCD is very sturdy, while most Live View digital SLR cameras don't even have a swiveling LCD; certainly none in this price range.
The other major difference between the Sony A200 and the more expensive A300 and A350 is that they both have a tilting LCD. First it tilts down not quite 45 degrees, then it tilts up beyond 90 degrees. It's not as nice as some models that also swivel left, right, and even forward, but those cameras are quite a bit more expensive than the A300 and A350.
Like all Live View SLRs, I'm surprised when I actually use the feature, and pleasantly surprised when I remember that a given camera has a swiveling LCD. The truth is that up and down are the main ways you're going to shoot with Live View, at least in horizontal format, and the Sony A350 delivers good results. But I still do shoot vertically a lot, and it would be nice to swivel left and right for low angle kid shots and even overhead shots that include a tall building or other subject where I want a different perspective.
What's positive about this design is that it's pretty solid, and seems less likely to break in heavy use than the more versatile swivel screens.
You also don't have to choose which Live View mode you want, as you do with many competing Live View SLR designs. You have one choice, and it works just like it does when you look through the optical viewfinder.
An image of the AF points is displayed on the LCD, and when you half-press the shutter button, the chosen AF points are surrounded by green brackets. It works like a digicam does, and it works like an SLR does.
There is no alternate mirror-flip-up mode where the phase detect AF takes a stab at focusing while the screen goes blank, and you don't have to wait for Contrast detect to work, either. There is no Contrast-detect. Instead, Phase detect is always available in the usual way: through the partially-silvered main mirror, which reflects light via a secondary mirror to the AF sensor below the exposure chamber. (See the cutaway image below.) This new system makes autofocus in Live View as fast as AF through the optical viewfinder. Sony has found the holy grail of Live View mode.
Cropped and soft. You do end up with a cropped view of the final image, however, when composing via Live View mode. In fact, it's more cropped than the optical viewfinder. While the optical viewfinder gives 95 percent coverage, the Live View mode gives only 91 percent coverage. The Live View display is also slightly soft, especially indoors or in low light, making pre-shot focus verification more difficult. I'm most often pleasantly surprised, though, once the picture pops up crisp onscreen after capture.
Optical Viewfinder. Of course, there's still the Optical viewfinder, which I shoot with more often. Unfortunately, compared to the Sony A200, the optical viewfinder of the Sony A350 appears dramatically smaller, thanks to the Live View sensor in the latter models. Both vignette in the corners when I look through the viewfinder with my glasses, but I do get a bigger image with the A200, which is better for seeing detail. For reference, the Sony A350's viewfinder appears about the same size as the Rebel XTi's, whereas the A200 appears just slightly bigger than the new Rebel XSi. My one major complaint about the XTi after using it for awhile is its small optical viewfinder, so I'd have to apply the same complaint to the Sony A350. It's certainly not a deal-breaker, but is a notable tradeoff for the Sony A350's Live View capability.
Still, the benefit of Sony's implementation is real, making composing and focusing in Live View mode as natural as doing so through the optical viewfinder. Even when shooting outdoors at night, I found the Sony A350 as simple to use in Live View as a digicam, but with the speed of an SLR.
I still get startled when I put my eye to the Sony A350's optical viewfinder and see blackness. First I check for the lens cap, then I remember the Live View switch.
The LCD is usable outdoors in bright sunlight, but you have to work at it. Unfortunately, it's in style to have a beautiful glossy cover glass over LCDs these days, so you have to look through a very sharp reflection to see the softer, transflective LCD image. It works in bright sunlight, but you sometimes have to move your head to avoid reflections for a better view, because the reflection of the sky, for example, can overpower the LCD. And beware reflections of the Sun, because the beautifully glossy cover glass will give you a pretty faithful view of that bright orb, making it even harder to see that LCD beneath.
Flash. For the intended market, it's good that Sony made the A350's flash a pop-up design. The old one had to be lifted into place. Here you press a button on the left of the camera's pentamirror housing and it pops up. What that means is that the auto exposure modes can activate the flash when they deem it necessary, rather than suggesting the user raise the flash. The flash doesn't go up as high as the one on the A100, however, and that's probably because the bodies of the A200, A300, and A350 are molded to make room for the Live View mode components in the latter two cameras. The flash on the A100 is hinged much further back, where the A350's is hinged about 3/4-inch forward. The flash bulb also ends up a little more forward, but that still means you'll have trouble with some lenses and lens hoods, which will block the short little strobe's light over much of the frame.

Sony A350

2008-11-06T10:09:00.000-08:00

Sony A350

Perhaps it was a feint, perhaps it was just a matter of introducing the right camera to the right audience, but Sony's Alpha A200 introduced at the Consumer Electronics Show early this year was a very minor upgrade to the A100. The more buzz-worthy news came with Sony's announcement of the Alpha A300 and A350 at PMA. Both incorporate a new Live View mode, with a unique mechanism that no one has yet tried: drawing an image from inside the optical viewfinder with a special tilting mirror.

While the A300 is essentially an A200 with an articulating LCD screen and Live View mode, the A350 also raises the resolution from 10 megapixels to 14.2 megapixels.

Like the A200, Sony says that improvements to the A300 and A350's AF have made focus acquisition 1.7 times faster, thanks to the high-torque AF motor and improved AF sequence borrowed from the A700. Autofocus in Live View is also as fast as it is in optical viewfinder mode, a major breakthrough among digital SLRs.

Shaped to better match the sensor's 3:2 aspect ratio, the Sony A200's 2.7-inch "Clear Photo" LCD has an anti-reflective coating for easy viewing in the sun, and 230,000 pixels, but the version on the A300 and A350 tilts up and down for easier viewing while shooting low or overhead.

The same LCD-based function menu that appeared on the A200 earlier this year replaces the old dial-based function menu on the Sony A100, and many of the menu items and systems from the Sony A700 have made their way into the Sony A300 and A350

The Sony A300 and A350 also have a new pop-up flash, rather than the old "pull-up" type. Now these consumer cameras can deploy the flash in auto modes when necessary. Like most other digital SLRs, the user deploys the flash with a button on the left side of the lens mount housing, by the big orange Alpha logo.

The old battery icon has been augmented with a "percent remaining" indicator on the Sony A300 and A350. It now reads "100%," in addition to displaying four bars to indicate battery status. Sony's new vertical battery grip (VG-B30AM) already announced for the Sony A200 also works with the new digital SLR cameras, duplicating many of the controls necessary for vertical shooting, and holds two InfoLITHIUM batteries, making all three cameras capable of shooting up to 1,500 shots.

Eye-start Autofocus, also from the A100, starts up the autofocus system so the camera's ready before you even match your eye up to the viewfinder in most cases. Super SteadyShot stabilizes images with any lens mounted. Sony claims up to 3.5 stops of extra exposure with their body-based image stabilization system. Anti-dust is also built in, with a static-free coating on the CCD's filter that is shaken each time the camera is powered off.

http://www.imaging-resource.com/PRODS/AA350/AA350A.HTM

Samsung Omnia i900

2008-11-05T10:08:00.000-08:00

Samsung Omnia i900

INTRODUCTION

I think there's an unspoken race among WinMo OEMs to add as many features as possible to new devices. And hey, we're not complaining. The Omnia i900 from Samsung, which unapologetically looks like an iPhone, has a robust list of capabilities. Features like a wide QVGA screen, up to 16GB of onboard storage, an accelerometer for automatic screen rotation, and an optical joystick for easy one-handed operation make us pay a lot of attention to the device. This is the review you want to read to discover all the neat tricks that the Omnia can do. Read on for our comprehensive review of the Omnia i900!

WHAT'S HOT

The Omnia i900 looks great on paper. The 3.2" screen has a unique resolution of WQVGA, or 240x400. That makes for a pixel density of 145PPI, which is a bit low in comparison to other devices. It's running on Windows Mobile 6.1 Professional, packing a Marvell CPU at 624MHz with 96MB RAM and 96MB ROM, plus 16GB or 8GB of additional memory that acts as an on-board storage card. For further expansion, the Omnia has a microSD slot. It's a quadband phone with GSM850/900/1800/1900, but only has the UMTS2100 band, meaning that 3G won't work in the US. It has 802.11 b/g WiFi, Bluetooth 2.0, an FM tuner, and aGPS. For one-handed usage, there is an optical joystick that controls a mouse cursor on the screen. The camera shoots at 5.0MP and has a flash, and the front camera shoots at VGA resolution. Powering it all is a nice-sized 1440mAh battery.

information

http://www.pocketnow.com/index.php?a=portal_detail&t=reviews&id=1089

Threat identity

2008-10-29T21:11:00.000-07:00

Threat identity (IDE) files: overview
Threat identity (IDE) files contain threat identities which allow Sophos Anti-Virus to detect and disinfect the latest malicious software and other threats.
All versions of Sophos Anti-Virus later than version 4.5 update with IDE files automatically.
IDE files are a supplement to regular engine and full threat updates, and not a replacement.
Sophos Anti-Virus IDE files are cross-platform. All operating system versions of Sophos Anti-Virus can use the same IDE files.
Where necessary, for example with emergency command lines scanners, and older versions of Sophos Anti-Virus (e.g. OpenVMS), you can download and add IDE files manually.
Related articles:
Using IDE files with command line emergency versions
Threat identity (IDE) files: how to use
Threat identity (IDE) files: obtaining
Finding information about threats
Daily Supplemental IDE files

Computer virus causes Pan

2008-10-29T21:09:00.000-07:00

Computer virus causes Pan American Games to trip up, says Sophos
According to media reports, the 2003 Pan American Games have been disrupted by a computer virus.
The unnamed computer virus is said to have interfered with the results service at the international sporting event, being held in Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic. Media representatives around the world were unable to access the latest scores and results from competitions as the computer system was brought down for the second day running on Monday.
The virus infection was the latest in a long line of difficulties facing the organisers of the Pan American Games, including athletes arriving late, a fly-infested media centre, and the use of an amateurishly designed Brazilian flag at the opening ceremony.
"If you organise an international event the eyes of the world are watching you and it's essential that your computer systems are protected against the latest threats," said Graham Cluley, senior technology consultant for Sophos Anti-Virus. "Viruses act like a modern-day plague - not only capable of damaging the data held by businesses, but also disrupting entertainment and social events which should be focused on fun."
Sophos is no stranger to protecting international events from the virus threat. Earlier in 2003 it successfully protected the Cannes Film Festival from all virus attacks during the course of the prestigious movie competition.
The Pan American Games, held every four years since 1951, are always held the summer preceding the Olympic Games and are attended by athletes from 42 nations in North, Central and South America, and the Caribbean who compete in 288 events across 35 sports. The event showcases all 28 Olympic sports and seven non-Olympic events.

2008-10-26T19:54:00.000-07:00

CPU-Z is a freeware utility that gathers information on some of the main devices of your system. CPU-Z does not need to be installed, just unzip the files in a directory and run the .exe. In order to remove the program, just delete the files and that's it. The program does not copy any file in any Windows directory, nor write in the registry.

CPU

Name and number.
Core stepping and process.
Package.
Core voltage.
Internal and external clocks, clock multiplier.
Supported instructions sets.
All cache levels (location, size, speed, technology).

Mainboard

Vendor, model and revision.
BIOS model and date.
Chipset (northbridge and southbridge) and sensor.
Graphic interface.

Memory

Frequency and timings.
Module(s) specification using SPD (Serial Presence Detect) : vendor, serial number, timings table.

Download Programe

http://www.filehippo.com/download_cpuz/download/e817ec41efb613e391e38edb70a5c97f/

Microsoft ActiveSync 4.5 Build 5096

2008-10-26T18:38:00.000-07:00

Microsoft ActiveSync 4.5 Build 5096 And Free download Program
"Synchronize your Windows Mobile-based device with a Windows powered desktop PC."ActiveSync, the latest sync software release for Windows Mobile-based devices, provides a great synchronization experience with Windows-based computers and Microsoft Outlook right out of the box.

ActiveSync acts as the gateway between your Windows-based PC and Windows Mobile-based device, enabling the transfer of Outlook information, Office documents, pictures, music, videos and applications to and from your device.

In addition to synchronizing with a desktop PC, ActiveSync can synchronize directly with Microsoft Exchange Server 2003 so that you can keep your e-mail, calendar data, tasks and contact information updated wirelessly when you???re away from your PC.

Requirements:-Supported Operating Systems: Windows 2000 Service Pack 4; Windows Server 2003 Service Pack 1; Windows Server 2003 Service Pack 1 for Itanium-based Systems; Windows Server 2003, Standard x64 Edition; Windows XP Media Center Edition; Windows XP Professional x64 Edition ; Windows XP Service Pack 1; Windows XP Service Pack 2; Windows XP Tablet PC Edition -Microsoft Outlook 2000, Microsoft Outlook XP, or Microsoft Outlook 2003 messaging and collaboration clients required for synchronization to the desktop or portable computer of e-mail, calendar, contacts, tasks, and notes. (Outlook 2003 is recommended)-Microsoft Office 2000, Microsoft Office XP or Microsoft Office 2003-Microsoft Internet Explorer 6.0 or later (required)-Microsoft Systems Management Server 2.0

The following mobile device operating systems are supported by ActiveSync:
-Microsoft Windows Mobile 5.0
-Messaging and Security Feature Pack for Microsoft Windows Mobile 5.0
-Microsoft Windows Mobile 2003 Second Edition
-Microsoft Windows Mobile 2003
-Microsoft Pocket PC 2002, Microsoft Windows CE OS version 3.0
-Microsoft Smartphone 2002, Microsoft Windows CE OS version 3.0

Free download

free download Microsoft ActiveSync 4.5 Build 5096

ActiveSync 4.2

2008-10-26T18:30:00.000-07:00

ActiveSync 4.2 and Free download

"ActiveSync 4.2 - sync software release for Windows Mobile-based devices"BrothersoftEditor/ Microsoft ActiveSync 4.2 is the latest sync software release for Windows Mobile-based devices. ActiveSync provides a great synchronization experience with Windows-based PCs and Microsoft Outlook right out of the box.

ActiveSync acts as the gateway between your Windows-based PC and Windows Mobile-based device, enabling the transfer of Outlook information, Office documents, pictures, music, videos and applications to and from your device.

In addition to synchronizing with a desktop PC, ActiveSync can synchronize directly with Microsoft Exchange Server 2003 so that you can keep your e-mail, calendar data, tasks and contact information updated wirelessly when youÃ¢??re away from your PC.

Changes in ActiveSync 4.2 help resolve connectivity related issues with Microsoft Outlook, proxies, partnerships, and connectivity.Microsoft Outlook Improvements: Resolves issues relating to error code 85010014.Proxy/DTPT interaction Improvements: Improved auto configuration of device Connection Manager settings when desktop has no proxy path to the internet.Improved Desktop Pass Thru behavior with ISA proxy failures.Partnership improvements: Better resolution of multiple devices with the same name syncing with the same desktop.Connectivity Improvements: Better handling of VPN clients (resolve unbinding of protocols from our RNDIS adapter). New auto detection of connectivity failure with user diagnostic alerts.ActiveSync 4.2 supports PC sync via USB cable, Bluetooth, or infrared connection

Free download

free download Microsoft ActiveSync 4.2

Samsung G400 review

2008-10-26T18:14:00.000-07:00

Samsung G400 Soul review
All right then, Samsung and Soul know better than simply recasting a slider as a bar. Samsung G400 Soul is the one Soul family member that easily gets singled out. The clamshell phone pulls off near RAZR size and style (save for the thickness), and boasts the unique dual screen setup and a 5 megapixel autofocus camera. Actually, this is the first 5 MP clamshell ever, though for some reason Samsung chose not to pitch that in their promos. Anyway, the G400 is one heavy piece of skill and style. And even if it's the odd one in terms of looks, it seems set to live up to that Soul pedigree.

Key features:

5 megapixel autofocus camera (face detection, wide dynamic range and image stabilization)
Identical external and internal screens: 2.2" 256K-color TFT LCD of QVGA resolution
Touch-sensitive external display with ,multimedia interface and haptics
3G with HSDPA (7.2Mbps) support, video call
FM radio with RDS
120MB of shared memory and microSD slot
Bluetooth (with A2DP) and USB v2.0
User-friendly keypad
Relatively fast user interface
Fully customizable themes
Dedicated settings for each of the displays
The main display doesn't get key prints in closed position

Technical Windows Vista

2008-10-23T18:50:00.000-07:00

Windows Vista™ is the first Windows operating system that directly utilizes the power of a dedicated GPU (graphics processing unit). NVIDIA® GPUs are essential for accelerating the Windows Vista experience by offering an enriched 3D user interface, increased productivity, vibrant photos, smooth, high-definition videos, and realistic DirectX® 10 games. To fully experience Windows Vista, Microsoft® and other industry experts recommend using a PC that is 10 times* more powerful than those required by previous generations of Windows.
NVIDIA nForce®-based PCs and workstations deliver uncompromising performance, quality and reliability to fully drive the Windows Vista OS. "DirectX 10 means higher performance and better looking PC graphics," said Chris Donahue, group manager, games for Windows at Microsoft. "We are thrilled to see that NVIDIA has taken the first step to help application developers and end users adopt the newest 3D graphics API, by making DirectX 10-compliant GPUs available from top-to-bottom for every type of desktop PC user." NVIDIA solutions, world renowned for innovation, stability, and award-winning performance, are the choice of reviewers, professionals and consumers worldwide, and are essential ingredients for a great Windows Vista experience.

NVIDIA Quadro NVS Notebook

2008-10-23T18:38:00.000-07:00

NVIDIA Quadro NVS Notebook SolutionsThe Standard for Business GraphicsThe award winning Quadro® NVS series is the business standard for optimized performance in graphic applications. Delivering a reliable hardware and software platform for a stable business environment, NVIDIA business graphics solutions are compatible with the latest business applications that meet the demands of today's professional. Whether you are at the office or on the road, get the most from your business applications with a notebook PC powered by NVIDIA Quadro NVS business graphics solutions.New solutions: Quadro NVS 160M and Quadro NVS 150MAdditional solutions: Quadro NVS 510M, Quadro NVS 320M, Quadro NVS 300M, Quadro NVS 140M, Quadro NVS 135M, Quadro NVS 130M, Quadro NVS 120M, and Quadro NVS 110M.

Reliability: A total hardware and software solution provides a worry-free environment.
Stability: The stable architecture provides a dependable solution for today and into the future.
Ease-of-Use: Simple-to-use IT management tools deliver easy deployment and maintenance.
Industry-Leading Graphics: Renowned NVIDIA graphics include compatibility testing for all of the latest business applications.

Accelerate Creative Suite 4

2008-10-22T22:21:00.000-07:00

Creativity is not just your passion, it's your business. The NVIDIA® Quadro® CX is the accelerator for Adobe® Creative Suite® 4—giving you the performance, tools, and reliability you need to maximize your creativity. Quadro CX is designed and optimized for Adobe Creative Suite 4 so you can create more–faster

Introducing NVIDIA® GeForce® 9

2008-10-22T22:19:00.000-07:00

Good enough" graphics are no longer good enough.Get 16-cores of DirectX® 10 graphics and NVIDIA® CUDA™ technology parallel processing horsepower with NVIDIA GeForce® 9-Series motherboard GPUs. Featuring Hybrid SLI®, PureVideo® HD, and PhysX technology, GeForce 9-Series mGPUs prove that you can expect more from motherboard graphics. Click here to learn more about how to turbo-charge your Optimized PC.Available in approximately 2 weeks from the following locations: Amazon.com, Buy.com, Mwave.com, NCIX.com, Newegg.com, TigerDirect.com, and ZipZoomfly.com

How to Simplify Folder Sharing

2008-10-22T08:13:00.000-07:00

How to Simplify Folder Sharing on Your Home Network

I just spent a considerable amount of time troubleshooting a network glitch between two PCs on my network: one running Vista, the other XP. And by "glitch" I mean that the Vista box can't see any of the XP machine's shared folders, and the XP machine gets a permission error when trying to open a shared folder on the Vista system.
Now, I'm no slouch when it comes to configuring Windows' ridiculously complex network settings, but I'm running out of hair to pull. Sheesh, what a nightmare. Right about now, Mac users are probably (rightfully) laughing their heads off at me.
Figuring things could hardly get worse, I decided to try Cisco's new Network Magic 5.. Although there's a free version, it's the $29.99 Essentials package that promises to simplify file/folder sharing--and, man, does it ever. It's literally a three-click process. The only caveat: to take advantage of this feature, the program must be running on each PC.
The Essentials version includes licenses for up to three machines, which is probably sufficient for most households--but not mine. The $49.99 Pro edition raises the cap to eight PCs. Of course, Network Magic does way more than just help with folder sharing. But its acumen in that area alone makes it worth the purchase price, in my humble opinion.
If you're not convinced, you can download a 7-day trial of the Pro version. It reverts to the free version if you don't buy Pro or Essentials at the end of the trial. I highly recommend it for anyone who's ever struggled with a home network.

Do you Buy a Router?

2008-10-22T07:56:00.000-07:00

Do you Buy a Router?

Network routers are less susceptible to seasonal fluctuations than most other types of high-tech gear, but there are still ways improve your chances of getting a bargain.
Routers can be tricky to buy: The specs are confusing, vendors are numerous, and prices vary considerably. There isn't a best time of year to buy a router, but you do have ways to ensure that you get a good value.
One sensible step is to compare routers at a respected shopping site such as TigerDirect.com--one of the top two online retailers in our survey. Enter routers in the search field, and sort the results by price (low-to-high or high-to-low), by popularity, or by customer rating. (Other major shopping sites work pretty much the same way as TigerDirect.com does.)

ASUS ROG EN9800GT MATRIX

2008-10-22T07:48:00.000-07:00

ASUS ROG EN9800GT MATRIX/HTDI/512M

include functii de monitorizare si ajustare automata a voltajelor si frecventelor de operare pentru nucleu si memorii, ceea ce duce la temperaturi scazute si la o functionare silentioasa. De asemenea, este prezenta si tehnologia de overclocking dinamic pentru performante crescute in jocurile 3D.
Specificatii ASUS ROG EN9800GT MATRIX/HTDI/512M
Model

The Perfect Answer to Gaming
NeedsA stylish design that comprises of daring lines, a futuristic-looking Hybrid Cooler and a black circuit board allows astute gamers to instantly identify the ASUS ROG EN9800GT MATRIX as a piece of top-notch gaming hardware; while the ROG logo prominently displayed on the cooler is a mark of promise to signify that this graphics card will deliver extreme gaming performances. Equipped with the ASUS Super Hybrid Engine, Hybrid Cooler technology and iTracker, 15% performance boosts in 3D mode can be achieved; while 30% less power consumption and much quieter cooling can also be guaranteed under the 2D mode - allowing gamers to fulfill their every gaming requirement.Auto Hardware Detection and Adjustments with Super Hybrid EngineThe new Super Hybrid Engine technology showcases its intelligence via a two-fold process. First gathering detailed information about the GPU loading and temperature, memory and power IC; Super Hybrid Engine then calculates an optimized solution for the best performance. Furthermore, all of this happens in real time, without requiring any tinkering from users - making it easy to achieve multi-level GPU and memory voltage adjustments for the ultimate graphical performance or maximum energy savings.Hybrid Cooler for Auto-managed Proactive CoolingThe leading and intelligent thermal innovation Hybrid Cooler draws its inspiration from Hybrid cars of the same namesake. With a revolutionary combination of the fan and heatsink solutions on one card, the Hybrid Cooler targets guaranteed performance with power savings in mind. When required, the fan and heatsink will work together for optimum cooling, while the fan is automatically controlled according to advanced GPU loading detection - providing users with more proactive cooling and power savings in the event of lower graphics utilization - much like real Hybrid cars.iTracker Offers Easy User Selection for the Most Suitable UsageThe iTracker feature comes built-in with the Super Hybrid Engine technology, and offers 4 default profiles for entry-level gamers: namely the Optimized Mode, Gaming Mode, Power Saving Mode, and Default mode.

This handy application is also able to display real-time graphics card information that includes the GPU/shader/memory clock, GPU/memory voltage, GPU loading, GPU/memory/power IC/ambient temperature, and fan speed. In addition, the 5th profile - the User Defined Mode, allows timely adjustments that include GPU/shader/memory clock, GPU/memory voltage, and fan speeds to suit different individual requirements.Up to 15% Faster in 3D ModeGPU and memory voltage boosts from 1.2V up to 1.301V and from 1.9V up to 1.92V respectively when the ROG EN9800GT MATRIX is running in 3D mode. This allows the GPU, shader and memory clock performance to be boosted from 600MHz up to 750MHz, from 1800MHz up to 2000MHz, and from 1512MHz up to 1753MHz respectively. Such unprecedented performance upgrades helps raise the ROG EN9800GT MATRIX's 3DMark Vantage Extreme Mode score from 2013 to 2308 - an unbelievable 15% speed improvement when compared to any other reference designed board*. Gamers can now feel the adrenaline rush of superb gaming performance - only with the ASUS ROG EN9800GT MATRIX/HTDI/512M.Up to 30% Power Saved and Quiet Cooling in 2D ModeWhile in 2D modes, less power consumption is required, and the ROG EN9800GT MATRIX is able to reduce GPU and memory voltages from 1.2V down to 0.9V, and from 1.9V to 1.8V respectively for great energy savings. Furthermore, the Auto Phase Switch technology optimizes the power supplied by the power phase for maximum power efficiency. In combining the exceptional voltage reduction with the Auto Phase Switch technology, the ROG EN9800GT MATRIX's power consumption is lowered from 46.27W to 32.44W - an astonishing 30% in savings when compared to any other reference designed board**. Additionally, Hybrid Cooler will help reduce fan rotation speeds in 2D modes - allowing users to enjoy much quieter cooling for comfortable computing environments.

Archos' 5: sexy looks

2008-10-22T07:47:00.001-07:00

Archos' 5: sexy looks, but a fingerprint magnet
In its latest attempt to successfully fuse the two concepts, Archos has chucked the rather Rococo styling and hybrid touchscreen/key control interface of the 605 into the bin and started from scratch. The result is a very solid device weighing 250g - for the 60GB model; the 120 and 250GB models re 300g - and measuring 127.5 x 78.3 x 12.9mm - the larger HDD devices are 6.5mm deeper - encased in a polished gun-metal case.

In the hand, the 5 feels a quality device: cold, solid and sleek and with no square edges or protuberances to snag in pockets or bags. The player itself is physically no more than 10mm larger than the screen in any direction and as a piece of design it really is quite superb.
The casing itself, however, is a true fingerprint magnet, oily smudges showing up a treat. That said, the minimalist industrial styling goes some way to lessening their impact, the 5 having the air of a device that should look just a little used and utilitarian rather than polished and pristine. Think the PMP they would use aboard the Nostromo rather then the Enterprise.

Two USB ports, but proprietary connectors
External controls are limited to the on/off and volume switches on the top of the player, with two proprietary Archos USB ports tucked away at the bottom. We were pleased to see that the flick-out rear stand sported by the 605 has made it onto the 5, though the position of the USB ports means you can't stand it up and charge it at the same time.

Asus to release desktop Eee

2008-10-22T07:40:00.000-07:00

Asus to release desktop Eee PC as Ebox

Asus will finally launch the desktop version of its elfin Eee PC early next month. Once dubbed the E-DT, the unit is set to retail as the Ebox, we understand.
The rather Wii-style Eee will incorporate a 2GB of memory and a 160GB hard drive, we hear, but for now Asus is keeping the full spec to itself.

Asus' Ebox: Wii-like
We'd suggest the machine will use a 'Diamondville' chip, the small form-factor desktop-oriented processor Intel is set to add to its Atom family next month.
The Ebox will certainly run the Eee PC's Xandros version of Linux, and come bundled with the same line-up of applications.

Also available in black
The look of the Ebox is at odds with the design of a slimline home desktop PC that Asus demo'd at the CeBit show in March this year. That model, the "Digital Home System EP20", was, however, said to run the Eee PC's Linux OS.
It also sported a slot-loading optical drive, something that's not visible on the Ebox shots.
Last month, Asus launched the Essentio CS5110 mini PC, is a multimedia SFF PC that again got Eee fans' hopes rising... until they saw that it runs Windows Vista.

Sony PSP-3000

2008-10-21T03:31:00.000-07:00

Sony PSP-3000

Not long after Sony unleashed its updated model of the PlayStation Portable, affectionately named PSP Slim & Lite, there's an interesting placeholder image found on Sony Computer Entertainment's website for instruction manuals that raises eyebrows. The image says "3000 series" on the PSP website, and it's inevitable for people to speculate that a new line of the handheld is at least in the works.The sleek and lighter PSP-2000 was launched back in September across the globe and the portable gaming device is expected to run for 10 years, so it doesn't seem unlikely for Sony to push for redesigned models before unveiling a successor. Though the image could have been prepared for future plans, we'll just watch out for any possible announcements. Keep checking back for updates!

Philips NP2500 and NP2900

2008-10-21T02:16:00.000-07:00

Philips rolls out the two upcoming Network Music Player, NP2500 and NP2900. The NP2500 is an audio out with coaxial digital audio, while the NP2900 has integrated speakers. Both equipped with digital color screen. Both capability for connecting with internet radio as well as PC and online music service. About the Philips NP2500 and Philips NP2900 released date and how much the price, no info yet.

Nokia 5320 Mobile Phone

2008-10-20T22:10:00.000-07:00

Nokia 5320 Mobile Phone

Music Almighty
Impress with a dynamic design
Make an impression with the simplicity of smooth, glossy surfaces to the functionality of dedicated music and gaming keys.
Play it again and again
Great stereo quality, transferring your favourites or finding new hits is now easy with Nokia XpressMusic features.
Say and Play
Listening to your tracks just got easier with a vioce-controlled music player. Press and hold the dedicated button above the XpressMusic logo, say the name of your artist and song, and let the music begin.
Find and share your favourite media
Find and share media content with a full feature browser, online services, and pre-installed internet application.

LG KP-500

2008-10-20T22:00:00.000-07:00

LG KP-500

touch screen mobile phone : LG Electronics announces the launch of LG KP500 mobile phone with an affordable introduction price never offered before. This attractively priced full touch screen handset is complete with the latest touch technology and features found in the existing high-end full touch screen handsets currently available on the market. “The feedback we receive from consumers around the world indicate that there’s more people who wish to try the latest touch screen phones,” said Dr. Skott Ahn, President and CEO of LG Mobile. “We want to reach out to this group and LG KP500 is our answer to deliver a high quality touchscreen phone that is easy to use and much easier to afford.

LG KP500 GSM phone As a slim and stylish handset, the LG KP500 is a GSM phone which can operate in four frequency bands, giving it a far-reaching reception range, and upon its global release, the LG KP500 can be used in 39 languages. But no matter what language one speaks, the vivid and intuitive user interface of the LG KP500 phone is simple for anyone to understand with vivid icons on the 3 inch wide screen. Keeping in touch with friends has never been easier as the LG KP500 mobile phone has the latest UI that allows the user to attach a friend's photo for the speed dial feature and then page through the portraits and touch the friend to be called. "We optimized the user interface to keep the tactile operations smooth and simple which is necessary when you’re opening up a new technology to a wide group of people," said Skott Ahn. With such ease of use, LG expects to broaden the base of touch screen handset consumers around the world

What is GPRS

2008-10-16T19:16:00.001-07:00

General Packet Radio Service (GPRS) is a packet oriented Mobile Data Service available to users of Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) and IS-136 mobile phones. It provides data rates from 56 up to 114 kbit/s. GPRS is a technology which is changing the present shape of mobile communication.
GPRS can be used for services such as Wireless Application Protocol (WAP) access, Short Message Service (SMS), Multimedia Messaging Service (MMS), and for Internet communication services such as email and World Wide Web access. GPRS data transfer is typically charged per megabyte of traffic transferred, while data communication via traditional circuit switching is billed per minute of connection time, independent of whether the user actually is using the capacity or is in an idle state. GPRS is a best-effort packet switched service, as opposed to circuit switching, where a certain Quality of Service (QoS) is guaranteed during the connection for non-mobile users.
2G cellular systems combined with GPRS are often described as "2.5G", that is, a technology between the second (2G) and third (3G) generations of mobile telephony. It provides moderate speed data transfer, by using unused Time division multiple access (TDMA) channels in, for example, the GSM system. Originally there was some thought to extend GPRS to cover other standards, but instead those networks are being converted to use the GSM standard, so that GSM is the only kind of network where GPRS is in use. GPRS is integrated into GSM Release 97 and newer releases. It was originally standardized by European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI), but now by the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP).

Network deployment WiBro

2008-10-16T19:11:00.000-07:00

Network deployment
SK Telecom and Hanaro Telecom have announced a partnership to roll out WiBro nationwide in Korea, excluding Seoul and six provincial cities, where independent networks will be rolled out.
In November 2004, Intel and LG Electronics executives agreed to ensure compatibility between WiBro and WiMAX technology
In September 2005, Samsung Electronics signed a deal with Sprint Nextel Corporation to provide equipment for a WiBro trial .
In November 2005, KT Corporation(aka Korea Telecom) showed off WiBro trial services during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Busan.
February 10th 2006: Telecom Italia, the dominant telephony and internet service provider in Italy, together with Korean Samsung Electronics, has demonstrated to the public a WiBro network service on the occasion of the 2006 Winter Olympics, held in Turin, with downspeed of 10 Mbit/s and upspeed of some hundreds of kbit/s even in movement up to 120 km/h.
In the same event Samsung tlc div. president Kitae Lee assured a future of 20-30 Mbit/s by the end of this year (2006) and 100+ Mbit/s down / 1+ Mbit/s up in 2008 .
KT Corporation launched commercial WiBro service in mid-2006 as reported. Sprint (US), BT (UK), KDDI (JP), and TVA (BR) have or are trialing WiBro.
KT Corporation and SK Telecom launched WiBro around Seoul on June 30, 2006. More about the KT launch .
On April 3, 2007, KT launched WiBro coverage for all areas of Seoul including all subway lines.

What is WiBro

2008-10-16T19:10:00.000-07:00

WiBro (Wireless Broadband) is a wireless broadband Internet technology being developed by the South Korean telecoms industry. WiBro is the South Korean service name for IEEE 802.16e (mobile iMaxernational standard.
WiBro adopts TDD for duplexing, OFDMA for multiple access and 8.75 MHz as a channel bandwidth. WiBro was devised to overcome the data rate limitation of mobile phones (for example CDMA 1x) and to add mobility to broadband Internet access (for example ADSL or Wireless LAN). In February 2002, the Korean government allocated 100 MHz of electromagnetic spectrum in the 2.3 - 2.4 GHz band, and in late 2004 WiBro Phase 1 was standardized by the TTA of Korea and in late 2005 ITU reflected WiBro as IEEE 802.16e (mobile WiMax South Korean Telco (KT,SKT) launched commercial service in June 2006, and the tariff is around US$30.
WiBro base stations will offer an aggregate data throughput of 30 to 50 Mbit/s and cover a radius of 1-5 km allowing for the use of portable internet usage. In detail, it will provide mobility for moving devices up to 120 km/h (74.5 miles/h) compared to Wireless LAN having mobility up to walking speed and Mobile Phone having mobility up to 250 km/h. From testing during the APEC Summit in Busan in late 2005, the actual range and bandwidth were quite a bit lower than these numbers. The technology will also offer Quality of Service. The inclusion of QoS allows for WiBro to stream video content and other loss-sensitive data in a reliable manner. These all appear to be (and may be) the stronger advantages over the fixed WiMax standard (802.16a). Some Telcos in many countries are trying to commercialize this Mobile WiMAX (or WiBro). For example, TI (Italia), (Brazil), Omnivision (Venezuela), PORTUS (Croatia), and Arialink (Michigan) will provide commercial service after test service around 2006-2007. While WiBro is quite exacting in its requirements from spectrum use to equipment design, WiMAX leaves much of this up to the equipment provider while providing enough detail to ensure interoperability between designs.

Evolution 2G to 3G

2008-10-16T19:03:00.000-07:00

Evolution from 2G to 3G
2G networks were built mainly for voice data and slow transmission. Due to rapid changes in user expectation, they do not meet today's wireless needs.Cellular mobile telecommunications networks are being upgraded to use 3G technologies from 1999 to 2010. Japan was the first country to introduce 3G nationally, and in Japan the transition to 3G was largely completed in 2006. Korea then adopted 3G Networks soon after and the transition was made as early as 2004
From 2G to 2.5G (GPRS)
"2.5G" (and even 2.75G) are technologies such as i-mode data services, camera phones, high-speed circuit-switched data (HSCSD) and General packet radio service (GPRS) that provide some functionality domains like 3G networks, but without the full transition to 3G network. They were built to introduce the possibilities of wireless application technology to the end consumers, and so increase demand for 3G services.
When converting a GSM network to a UMTS network, the first new technology is General Packet Radio Service (GPRS). It is the trigger to 3G services. The network connection is always on, so the subscriber is online all the time. From the operator's point of view, it is important that GPRS investments are re-used when going to UMTS. Also capitalizing on GPRS business experience is very important.
From GPRS, operators could change the network directly to UMTS, or invest in an EDGE system. One advantage of EDGE over UMTS is that it requires no new licenses. The frequencies are also re-used and no new antennas are needed.
Migrating from GPRS to UMTS
From GPRS network, the following network elements can be reused:
Home location register (HLR)
Visitor location register (VLR)
Equipment identity register (EIR)
Mobile switching centre (MSC) (vendor dependent)
Authentication centre (AUC)
Serving GPRS Support Node (SGSN) (vendor dependent)
Gateway GPRS Support Node (GGSN)
From Global Service for Mobile (GSM) communication radio network, the following elements cannot be reused
Base station controller (BSC)
Base transceiver station (BTS)
They can remain in the network and be used in dual network operation where 2G and 3G networks co-exist while network migration and new 3G terminals become available for use in the network.
The UMTS network introduces new network elements that function as specified by 3GPP:
Node B (base station)
Radio Network Controller (RNC)
Media Gateway (MGW)
The functionality of MSC and SGSN changes when going to UMTS. In a GSM system the MSC handles all the circuit switched operations like connecting A- and B-subscriber through the network. SGSN handles all the packet switched operations and transfers all the data in the network. In UMTS the Media gateway (MGW) take care of all data transfer in both circuit and packet switched networks. MSC and SGSN control MGW operations. The nodes are renamed to MSC-server and GSN-server.

Advantages 3G network

2008-10-16T19:02:00.000-07:00

Advantages of a layered network architecture
Unlike GSM, UMTS is based on layered services. At the top is the services layer, which provides fast deployment of services and centralized location. In the middle is the control layer, which helps upgrading procedures and allows the capacity of the network to be dynamically allocated. At the bottom is the connectivity layer where any transmission technology can be used and the voice traffic will transfer over ATM/AAL2 or IP/RTP.
3G evolution (pre-4G)
See also section Pre-4G wireless standards of the 4G article.
The standardization of 3G evolution is working in both 3GPP and 3GPP2. The corresponding specifications of 3GPP and 3GPP2 evolutions are named as LTE and UMB, respectively. 3G evolution uses partly beyond 3G technologies to enhance the performance and to make a smooth migration path.
There are several different paths from 2G to 3G. In Europe the main path starts from GSM when GPRS is added to a system. From this point it is possible to go to the UMTS system. In North America the system evolution will start from Time division multiple access (TDMA), change to Enhanced Data Rates for GSM Evolution (EDGE) and then to UMTS.
In Japan, two 3G standards are used: W-CDMA used by NTT DoCoMo (FOMA, compatible with UMTS) and SoftBank Mobile (UMTS), and CDMA2000, used by KDDI. Transition for market purposes to 3G was completed in Japan in 2006.The first introduction of 3G technology in the Caribbean (2008) was done by American Movil(Claro)formerly MIPHONE in Jamaica. The Implementiotion phase of this network was carried out by Huawei in conjuction with other sub contractors like Trylon TSF out of Canada.

Phones and networks 3G

2008-10-16T18:51:00.001-07:00

Phones and networks
3G technologies enable network operators to offer users a wider range of more advanced services while achieving greater network capacity through improved spectral efficiency.
UMTS terminals
The technical complexities of a 3G phone or handset depends on its need to roam onto legacy 2G networks. In the first countries, Japan and South Korea, there was no need to include roaming capabilities to older networks such as GSM, so 3G phones were small and lightweight. In Europe and America, the manufacturers and network operators wanted multi-mode 3G phones which would operate on 3G and 2G networks (e.g., W-CDMA and GSM), which added to the complexity, size, weight, and cost of the handset. As a result, early European W-CDMA phones were significantly larger and heavier than comparable Japanese W-CDMA phones.
Japan's Vodafone KK experienced a great deal of trouble with these differences when its UK-based parent, Vodafone, insisted the Japanese subsidiary use standard Vodafone handsets. Japanese customers who were accustomed to smaller handsets were suddenly required to switch to European handsets that were much bulkier and considered unfashionable by Japanese consumers. During this conversion, Vodafone KK lost 6 customers for every 4 that migrated to 3G. Soon thereafter, Vodafone sold the subsidiary (now known as SoftBank Mobile).
The general trend to smaller and smaller phones seems to have paused, perhaps even turned, with the capability of large-screen phones to provide more video, gaming and internet use on the 3G networks.
Speed
The ITU has not provided a clear definition of the speeds users can expect from 3G equipment or providers. Thus users sold 3G service may not be able to point to a standard and say that the speeds it specifies are not being met. While stating in commentary that "it is expected that IMT-2000 will provide higher transmission rates: a minimum speed of 2Mbit/s for stationary or walking users, and 348 [sic] kbit/s in a moving vehicle," the ITU does not actually clearly specify minimum or average speeds or what modes of the interfaces qualify as 3G, so various speeds are sold as 3G intended to meet customers expectations of broadband speed. It is often suggested by industry sources that 3G can be expected to provide 384 kbit/s at or below pedestrian speeds, but only 128 kbit/s in a moving car. While EDGE is part of the 3G standard, some phones report EDGE and 3G network availability as separate things, notably the iPhone.
Network standardization
The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) defined the demands for 3G mobile networks with the IMT-2000 standard. An organization called 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) has continued that work by defining a mobile system that fulfills the IMT-2000 standard. This system is called Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS).

Implementation 3G

2008-10-16T18:48:00.001-07:00

Implementation and history
The first pre-commercial 3G network was launched by NTT DoCoMo in Germany branded FOMA, in May 2001 on a pre-release of W-CDMA-GA3Y technology. The first commercial launch of 3G was also by NTT DoCoMo in Japan on October 1, 2001. The second network to go commercially live was by SK Telecom in South Korea on the CDMA2000 1xEV-DO technology in January 2002. By May 2002 the second South Korean 3G network was launched by KTF on EV-DO and thus the Koreans were the first to see competition among 3G operators.
The first European pre-commercial network was at the Isle of Man by Manx Telecom, the operator owned by British Telecom, and the first commercial network in Europe was opened for business by Telenor in December 2001 with no commercial handsets and thus no paying customers. These were both on the W-CDMA technology.
The first commercial United States 3G network was by Monet Mobile Networks, on CDMA2000 1x EV-DO technology, but this network provider later shut down operations. The second 3G network operator in the USA was Verizon Wireless in October 2003 also on CDMA2000 1x EV-DO, and this network has grown strongly since then.
The first pre-commercial demonstration network in the southern hemisphere was built in Adelaide, South Australia by m.Net Corporation in February 2002 using UMTS on 2100 MHz. This was a demonstration network for the 2002 IT World Congress. The first commercial 3G network was launched by Hutchison Telecommunications branded as Three in April 2003.
In December 2007, 190 3G networks were operating in 40 countries and 154 HSDPA networks were operating in 71 countries, according to the GMSA. In Asia, Europe, Canada and the USA, telecommunication companies use W-CDMA technology with the support of around 100 terminal designs to operate 3G mobile networks.
In Europe, mass market commercial 3G services were introduced starting in March 2003 by 3 (Part of Hutchison Whampoa) in the UK and Italy. The European Union Council suggested that the 3G operators should cover 80% of the European national populations by the end of 2005.
Roll-out of 3G networks was delayed in some countries by the enormous costs of additional spectrum licensing fees. (See Telecoms crash.) In many countries, 3G networks do not use the same radio frequencies as 2G, so mobile operators must build entirely new networks and license entirely new frequencies; an exception is the United States where carriers operate 3G service in the same frequencies as other services. The license fees in some European countries were particularly high, bolstered by government auctions of a limited number of licenses and sealed bid auctions, and initial excitement over 3G's potential. Other delays were due to the expenses of upgrading equipment for the new systems.
By June 2007 the 200 millionth 3G subscriber had been connected. Out of 3 billion mobile phone subscriptions worldwide this is only 6.7%. In the countries where 3G was launched first - Japan and South Korea - over half of all subscribers use 3G. In Europe the leading country is Italy with a third of its subscribers migrated to 3G. Other leading countries by 3G migration include UK, Austria, Australia and Singapore at the 20% migration level. A confusing statistic is counting CDMA 2000 1x RTT customers as if they were 3G customers. If using this oft-disputed definition, then the total 3G subscriber base would be 475 million at June 2007 and 15.8% of all subscribers worldwide.
Still several major countries such as Turkey, China, Indonesia, etc have not awarded 3G licenses and customers await 3G services. China has been delaying its decisions on 3G for many years, partly hoping to have the Chinese 3G standard, TD-SCDMA, to mature for commercial production.
China announced in May 2008, that the telecoms sector was re-organized and three 3G networks would be allocated so that the largest mobile operator, China Mobile, would retain its GSM customer base and launch 3G onto the Chinese standard, TD-SCDMA. China Unicom would retain its GSM customer base but relinquish its CDMA2000 customer base, and launch 3G on the globally leading WCDMA (UMTS) standard. The CDMA2000 customers of China Unicom would go to China Telecom, which would then launch 3G on the CDMA 1x EV-DO standard. This means that China will have all three main cellular technology 3G standards in commercial use.
The first African use of 3G technology was a 3G videocall made in Johannesburg on the Vodacom network in November 2004. The first commercial launch of 3G in Africa was by EMTEL in Mauritius on the W-CDMA standard. In north African Morocco in late March 2006, a 3G service was provided by the new company Wana.
Rogers Wireless began implementing 3G HSDPA services in eastern Canada early 2007 in the form of Rogers Vision. Fido Solutions and Rogers Wireless now offer 3G service in most urban centres.

What is 3G

2008-10-16T18:40:00.000-07:00

3G is the third generation of mobile phone standards and technology, superseding 2.5G. It is based on the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) family of standards under the IMT-2000.
3G networks enable network operators to offer users a wider range of more advanced services while achieving greater network capacity through improved spectral efficiency. Services include wide-area wireless voice telephony, video calls, and broadband wireless data, all in a mobile environment. Additional features also include HSPA data transmission capabilities able to deliver speeds up to 14.4Mbit/s on the downlink and 5.8Mbit/s on the uplink.
Unlike IEEE 802.11 (common names Wi-Fi or WLAN) networks, 3G networks are wide area cellular telephone networks which evolved to incorporate high-speed internet access and video telephony IEEE 802.11 networks are short range, high-bandwidth networks primarily developed for data.

Standard devices Wi-Fi

2008-10-16T09:27:00.000-07:00

Standard devices

An embedded RouterBoard 112 with U.FL-RSMA pigtail and R52 mini PCI Wi-Fi card widely used by wireless Internet service providers (WISPs) in the Czech Republic.

OSBRiDGE 3GN – 802.11n Access Point and UMTS/GSM Gateway in one device.

USB wireless adaptor
A wireless access point connects a group of wireless devices to an adjacent wired LAN. An access point is similar to a network hub, relaying data between connected wireless devices in addition to a (usually) single connected wired device, most often an ethernet hub or switch, allowing wireless devices to communicate with other wired devices.
Wireless adapters allow devices to connect to a wireless network. These adapters connect to devices using various external or internal interconnects such as PCI, miniPCI, USB, ExpressCard, Cardbus and PC card. Most newer laptop computers are equipped with internal adapters. Internal cards are generally more difficult to install.
Wireless routers integrate a WAP, ethernet switch, and internal Router firmware application that provides IP Routing, NAT, and DNS forwarding through an integrated WAN interface. A wireless router allows wired and wireless ethernet LAN devices to connect to a (usually) single WAN device such as cable modem or DSL modem. A wireless router allows all three devices (mainly the access point and router) to be configured through one central utility. This utility is most usually an integrated web server which serves web pages to wired and wireless LAN clients and often optionally to WAN clients. This utility may also be an application that is run on a desktop computer such as Apple's AirPort.
Wireless network bridges connect a wired network to a wireless network. This is different from an access point in the sense that an access point connects wireless devices to a wired network at the data-link layer. Two wireless bridges may be used to connect two wired networks over a wireless link, useful in situations where a wired connection may be unavailable, such as between two separate homes.
Wireless range extenders or wireless repeaters can extend the range of an existing wireless network. Range extenders can be strategically placed to elongate a signal area or allow for the signal area to reach around barriers such as those created in L-shaped corridors. Wireless devices connected through repeaters will suffer from an increased latency for each hop. Additionally, a wireless device connected to any of the repeaters in the chain will have a throughput that is limited by the weakest link between the two nodes in the chain from which the connection originates to where the connection ends.

Reach Wi-Fi

2008-10-16T09:25:00.000-07:00

Reach
Due to reach requirements for wireless LAN applications, power consumption is fairly high compared to some other low-bandwidth standards. Especially Zigbee and Bluetooth supporting wireless PAN applications refer to much lesser propagation range of
Mobility
Speed vs. Mobility of wireless systems: Wi-Fi, HSPA, UMTS,GSM
Because of the very limited practical range of Wi-Fi, mobile use is essentially confined to such applications as inventory taking machines in warehouses or retail spaces, barcode reading devices at check-out stands or receiving / shipping stations. Mobile use of Wi-Fi over wider ranges is limited to move, use, move, as for instance in an automobile moving from one hotspot to another. Other wireless technologies are more suitable as illustrated in the graphic.
Threats to security

The most common wireless encryption standard, Wired Equivalent Privacy or WEP, has been shown to be easily breakable even when correctly configured. Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA and WPA2), which began shipping in 2003, aims to solve this problem and is now available on most products. Wi-Fi Access Points typically default to an "open" (encryption-free) mode. Novice users benefit from a zero-configuration device that works out of the box, but this default is without any wireless security enabled, providing open wireless access to their LAN. To turn security on requires the user to configure the device, usually via a software graphical user interface (GUI). Wi-Fi networks that are open (unencrypted) can be monitored and used to read and copy data (including personal information) transmitted over the network, unless another security method is used to secure the data, such as a VPN or a secure web page. (See HTTPS/Secure Socket Layer.)
Population
Many 2.4 GHz 802.11b and 802.11g Access points default to the same channel on initial startup, contributing to congestion on certain channels. To change the channel of operation for an access point requires the user to configure the device. Yet, this default use of channels 1, 6 and 11 gives better performance than "advanced" users choosing channels 2, 5, 7 and 9 as "unused, free".

Advantages Wi-Fi

2008-10-16T09:16:00.000-07:00

Advantages and challenges
A keychain size Wi-Fi detector.
Operational advantages

Wi-Fi allows LANs (Local Area Networks) to be deployed without cabling for client devices, typically reducing the costs of network deployment and expansion. Spaces where cables cannot be run, such as outdoor areas and historical buildings, can host wireless LANs.
In 2008, wireless network adapters are built into most modern laptops. The price of chipsets for Wi-Fi continues to drop, making it an economical networking option included in even more devices. Wi-Fi has become widespread in corporate infrastructures.
Different competitive brands of access points and client network interfaces are inter-operable at a basic level of service. Products designated as "Wi-Fi Certified" by the Wi-Fi Alliance are backwards compatible. Wi-Fi is a global set of standards. Unlike mobile telephones, any standard Wi-Fi device will work anywhere in the world.
Wi-Fi is widely available in more than 220,000 public hotspots and tens of millions of homes and corporate and university campuses worldwide. WPA is not easily cracked if strong passwords are used and WPA2 encryption has no known weaknesses. New protocols for Quality of Service (WMM) make Wi-Fi more suitable for latency-sensitive applications (such as voice and video), and power saving mechanisms (WMM Power Save) improve battery operation.
Limitations
Spectrum assignments and operational limitations are not consistent worldwide. Most of Europe allows for an additional 2 channels beyond those permitted in the U.S. for the 2.4 GHz band. (1–13 vs. 1–11); Japan has one more on top of that (1–14). Europe, as of 2007, was essentially homogeneous in this respect. A very confusing aspect is the fact that a Wi-Fi signal actually occupies five channels in the 2.4 GHz band resulting in only three non-overlapped channels in the U.S.: 1, 6, 11, and three or four in Europe: 1, 5, 9, 13 can be used if all the equipment on a specific area can be guaranteed not to use 802.11b at all, even as fallback or beacon. Equivalent isotropically radiated power (EIRP) in the EU is limited to 20 dBm (100 mW).

What is Wi-Fi

2008-10-16T08:51:00.000-07:00

Wi-Fi is the trade name for the popular wireless technology used in home networks, mobile phones, video games and other electronic devices that require some form of wireless networking capability. In particular, it covers the various IEEE 802.11 technologies (including 802.11n, 802.11b, 802.11g, and 802.11a).
Wi-Fi technologies are supported by nearly every modern personal computer operating system, most advanced game consoles and laptops, and many printers and other peripherals.

Purpose
The purpose of Wi-Fi is to provide wireless access to digital content. This content may include applications, audio and visual media, Internet connectivity, or other data. Wi-Fi generally makes access to information easier, as it can eliminate some of the physical restraints of wiring; this can be especially true for mobile devices

Technical WiMax

2008-10-16T08:47:00.000-07:00

Technical information
WiMAX is a term coined to describe standard, interoperable implementations of IEEE 802.16 wireless networks, similar to the way the term Wi-Fi is used for interoperable implementations of the IEEE 802.11 Wireless LAN standard. However, WiMAX is very different from Wi-Fi in the way it works.
MAC layer/data link layer
In Wi-Fi the media access controller (MAC) uses contention access — all subscriber stations that wish to pass data through a wireless access point (AP) are competing for the AP's attention on a random interrupt basis. This can cause subscriber stations distant from the AP to be repeatedly interrupted by closer stations, greatly reducing their throughput. This makes services such as Voice over IP (VoIP) or IPTV, which depend on an essentially-constant Quality of Service (QoS) depending on data rate and interruptibility, difficult to maintain for more than a few simultaneous users.
In contrast, the 802.16 MAC uses a scheduling algorithm for which the subscriber station needs to compete only once (for initial entry into the network). After that it is allocated an access slot by the base station. The time slot can enlarge and contract, but remains assigned to the subscriber station, which means that other subscribers cannot use it. In addition to being stable under overload and over-subscription (unlike 802.11), the 802.16 scheduling algorithm can also be more bandwidth efficient. The scheduling algorithm also allows the base station to control QoS parameters by balancing the time-slot assignments among the application needs of the subscriber stations.
Physical layer
The original version of the standard on which WiMAX is based (IEEE 802.16) specified a physical layer operating in the 10 to 66 GHz range. 802.16a, updated in 2004 to 802.16-2004, added specifications for the 2 to 11 GHz range. 802.16-2004 was updated by 802.16e-2005 in 2005 and uses scalable orthogonal frequency-division multiple access (SOFDMA) as opposed to the OFDM version with 256 sub-carriers (of which 200 are used) in 802.16d. More advanced versions, including 802.16e, also bring Multiple Antenna Support through Multiple-input multiple-output communications (MIMO) See WiMAX MIMO. This brings potential benefits in terms of coverage, self installation, power consumption, frequency re-use and bandwidth efficiency. 802.16e also adds a capability for full mobility support. The WiMAX certification allows vendors with 802.16d products to sell their equipment as WiMAX certified, thus ensuring a level of interoperability with other certified products, as long as they fit the same profile.
Most commercial interest is in the 802.16d and .16e standards, since the lower frequencies used in these variants suffer less from inherent signal attenuation and therefore give improved range and in-building penetration. Already today, a number of networks throughout the world are in commercial operation using certified WiMAX equipment compliant with the 802.16d standard.

Broadband Subscriber WiMax

2008-10-16T08:43:00.000-07:00

Broadband access
Many companies are closely examining WiMAX for last mile connectivity. The resulting competition may bring lower pricing for both home and business customers or bring broadband access to places where it has been economically unavailable.
WiMAX access was used to assist with communications in Aceh, Indonesia, after the tsunami in December 2004. All communication infrastructure in the area, other than Ham Radio, was destroyed, making the survivors unable to communicate with people outside the disaster area and vice versa. WiMAX provided broadband access that helped regenerate communication to and from Aceh.
In addition, WiMAX was used by Intel to assist the FCC and FEMA in their communications efforts in the areas affected by Hurricane Katrina.

Subscriber units (Client Units)
WiMAX subscriber units are available in both indoor and outdoor versions from several manufacturers. Self-install indoor units are convenient, but radio losses mean that the subscriber must be significantly closer to the WiMAX base station than with professionally-installed external units. As such, indoor-installed units require a much higher infrastructure investment as well as operational cost (site lease, backhaul, maintenance) due to the high number of base stations required to cover a given area. Indoor units are comparable in size to a cable modem or DSL modem. Outdoor units are roughly the size of a laptop PC, and their installation is comparable to a residential satellite dish.
With the potential of mobile WiMAX, there is an increasing focus on portable units. This includes handsets (similar to cellular smartphones) and PC peripherals (PC Cards or USB dongles). In addition, there is much emphasis from operators on consumer electronics devices (game terminals, MP3 players and the like); it is notable this is more similar to Wi-Fi than 3G cellular technologies.
Current certified devices can be found at the WiMAX Forum web site. This is not a complete list of devices available as certified modules are embedded into laptops, MIDs (Mobile Internet Devices), and private labeled devices.

Definition WiMax

2008-10-16T08:37:00.000-07:00

Definitions
The terms "fixed WiMAX", "mobile WiMAX", "802.16d" and "802.16e" are frequently used incorrectly. Correct definitions are the following:

802.16-2004 is often called 802.16d, since that was the working party that developed the standard. It is also frequently referred to as "fixed WiMAX" since it has no support for mobility.
802.16e-2005 is an amendment to 802.16-2004 and is often referred to in shortened form as 802.16e. It introduced support for mobility, amongst other things and is therefore also known as "mobile WiMAX".

Uses
The bandwidth and range of WiMAX make it suitable for the following potential applications:

Connecting Wi-Fi hotspots to the Internet.
Providing a wireless alternative to cable and DSL for "last mile" broadband access.
Providing data and telecommunications services.
Providing a source of Internet connectivity as part of a business continuity plan. That is, if a business has a fixed and a wireless Internet connection, especially from unrelated providers, they are unlikely to be affected by the same service outage.
Providing portable connectivity.

What is Wimax

2008-10-16T08:33:00.000-07:00

WiMAX, an approximate acronym of Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access, is a telecommunications technology that provides for the wireless transmission of data using a variety of transmission modes, from point-to-point links to full mobile cellular-type access. The technology provides upto 70 Mb/sec symmetric broadband speed without the need for cables. The technology is based on the IEEE 802.16 standard (also called WirelessMAN). The name "WiMAX" was created by the WiMAX Forum, which was formed in June 2001 to promote conformity and interoperability of the standard. The forum describes WiMAX as "a standards-based technology enabling the delivery of last mile wireless broadband access as an alternative to cable and DSL (and also to High Speed Packet Access).
Currently, Pakistan has the largest fully functional WiMAX network in the world. Wateen Telecom installed the network (with an initial rollout in seventeen cities) throughout Pakistan using Motorola hardware.

Panasonic DMC TZ4

2008-10-13T22:22:00.000-07:00

Panasonic DMC TZ4

The 8.1-megapixel TZ4, joins the TZ5 in Panasonic's TZ series offerings for 2008. These models pack a 28mm wide-angle, 10X optical zoom Leica DC lens in a compact design, ideal for the active user needing a versatile camera. By combining a 28mm wide-angle lens with the 10x optical zoom – consumers are empowered to take expanded shots, both wide and far. Adding to these feature-rich digital cameras, Panasonic also expands its Intelligent Auto technologies with new Intelligent Exposure and Digital Red-eye Correction. The TZ4 also has the ability to take 1920 x 1080 pixel High Definition-ready photos that perfectly fit a wide-screen (16:9) HDTV. Also, with the newly added HD component output capability, users can also connect the TZ models to an HDTV and watch a slideshow complete with mood appropriate music.
Also new to the TZ4 and the TZ5 is the Venus Engine IV, Panasonic’s new high-performance image processing LSI. The Venus Engine IV produces higher-quality pictures than its predecessor, the Venus Engine III, by using a more advanced signal processing system. The new Venus Engine IV also improves noise reduction, elevates the detection accuracy and corrective effects in both MEGA O.I.S. and Intelligent ISO and reduces the shutter release time lag. Both models also incorporate Intelligent LCD, which detects the lighting condition and controls the brightness level of the LCD in 11 fine steps, to offer optimal clarity in any situation, whether dark or light; indoors or outdoors. With a newly developed 460,000-dot high resolution in the TZ5’s 3.0-inch LCD and 230,000-dot in the TZ4’s 2.5-inch LCD, photos can be easily viewed on the display, regardless of the shooting environment.
With the addition of Intelligent Exposure and Digital Red-eye Correction, Panasonic’s Advanced Intelligent Auto mode consists of seven intuitive technologies, all which are specifically designed to help make photo-taking an enjoyable and seamless process unnoticed by the consumer – helping them to take clear photos. When in Advanced Intelligent Auto mode, the following technologies all operate automatically; the consumer does not need to change any settings:
Intelligent Exposure – With this new feature, photos will no longer be under- or over-exposed. Instead, the TZ5 and TZ4, instantly analyze the framed image and adjusts the brightness in areas that are too dark because of dim lighting, backlighting or the use of the flash. The camera will automatically adjust the brightness accordingly.
Digital Red-eye Correction*– This feature helps to eliminate the red-eye problem that sometimes results when taking flash shots at the night. Incorporated into the built-in flash, the camera emits a small preliminary flash before the main flash, detects red-eye and will digitally correct it.
MEGA O.I.S. – Gyrosensors detect hand-shake and the lens system shifts to compensate, helping to prevent hand-shake from creating a blurry image.
Intelligent ISO – With Intelligent ISO, the TZ4 and TZ5 can determine if the photo subject is moving and change the ISO setting and shutter speed accordingly, thus giving a blur-free photo.
Intelligent Scene Selector – Intelligent Scene Selector senses the ambient conditions, recognizes the shooting environment and will automatically select the appropriate scene mode from: Scenery, Portrait, Macro, Night Portrait or Night Scenery mode. This intuitive technology, helps the consumer use the most common scene modes that are built into the camera, but often go unused, without making any manual adjustments.
Face Detection – Panasonic’s Face Detection detects faces anywhere in the frame and automatically chooses the optimal focus and exposure settings so portraits come out clear and crisp. Detecting up to 15 faces, Panasonic’s Face Detection can even track a face if the subject is moving.
Continuous AF – The Continuous AF (auto focus) system maintains focus on the subject even without pressing a shutter button halfway, thus minimizing the AF time.
Major DMC-TZ4 Features:
8.1-megapixel effective CCD for images up to 3264x2448 pixels
Leica DC Vario-Elmarit Lens 10x "Wide" optical zoom, covering 28-280mm (35mm equivalent)
MEGA O.I.S. (Optical image stabilization) system
Intelligent Exposure and Digital Red-eye Correction
9-point AF system with focus-assist lamp
2.5-inch TFT color monitor with (230k pixels)
Program AE, Macro, Intelligent AUTO + 21 scene modes
Burst (3fps @ 8M; 10fps @ 2M) and AE bracketing capture modes
640x480/320x240 (4:3) or 848x480 (16:9) QuickTime movies, 30fps or 10fps with audio
Shutter speeds from 1/2000 to 8 seconds
Built-in flash with auto, fill, slow synchro and red-eye reduction modes
TTL Auto White Balance, 5 presets and custom set
27MB of internal memory plus SD/SDHC/MMC memory card slot
Optional DMW-MCTZ5 Underwater "Marine" Case
Plug-n-Play USB, Mass Storage compliant
PictBridge Direct-Print compatible
Powered by a 3.7v 1000mAh Lithium-ion Battery Pack

Nikon D90

2008-10-13T22:21:00.001-07:00

Nikon D90
12.3-megapixel DX-format CMOS imaging sensor: Coupled with Nikon's EXPEED image processing technologies and NIKKOR optics, breathtaking image fidelity is assured.
Continuous shooting as fast as 4.5 frames-per-second: Combined with fast 0.15ms power-up and split-second 65ms shooting lag, dramatic action and decisive moments are captured easily.
D-Movie Mode—Cinematic 24fps HD with sound: Record cinematic-quality movie clips at up to 720p HD (1280 x 720 pixels) in Motion JPEG format, enhanced by NIKKOR interchangeable lens quality and versatility.
Low noise ISO sensitivity from 200 to 3200: High signal-to-noise components and design deliver exceptional performance, even at high ISO setting.
3-inch super-density 920,000-dot color LCD monitor: High resolution, 170-degree wide-angle viewing guarantees confident image review and movie playback.
Built-in image sensor cleaning: Effective 4-frequency, ultrasonic sensor cleaning frees image degrading dust particles from the sensor's optical low pass filter.
11-point AF system with Face Priority: Consistently fast and accurate autofocus, reinforced by the Nikon Scene Recognition System, delivers razor sharpness in a wide variety of conditions.
One-button Live View: Easy to use Live View activates access to 3 contrast detection focus modes including Face Priority AF.
Nikon 3D Color Matrix Metering II with Scene Recognition System: Nikon's renowned 420-pixel RGB 3D Color Matrix Metering II, teamed with the exclusive Scene Recognition System, evaluates images, referencing an on-board database of over 30,000 photographic scenes, for unmatched exposure accuracy.
Comprehensive exposure control: Five advanced scene modes plus Program Auto, Shutter Priority, Aperture Priority and Manual.
Auto Active D-Lighting: Selectable and Automatic, Active D-Lighting optimizes details within shadows and highlights, taming high-contrast situations in real time.
Durable, high precision shutter: Testing to over 100,000 cycles assures shutter life and accuracy.
In-Camera Image Editing: Creative freedom stems from exclusive in-camera image editing, featuring Fisheye effect, Straighten and Distortion Control as well as D-Lighting, Red-eye Reduction, Image Overlay, Monochrome and more.
GPS geo-tagging: GP-1 GPS unit (optional) provides automatic real-time geo-tagging.

Nikon D60

2008-10-13T22:14:00.000-07:00

Nikon D60

Extraordinary 10.2-Megapixel DX-format Nikon Picture Quality: Nikon's high-performance, 10.2-megapixel DX-format CCD imaging sensor and exclusive EXPEED image processing concept provide added cropping freedom and the ability to make larger prints.
Includes AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR (Vibration Reduction) Image Stabilization Lens: NIKKOR lenses are famous for breathtaking sharpness and faithful color. With Nikon's fast, accurate autofocus and Vibration Reduction (VR) image stabilization technology built in, pictures are even sharper, free from blur caused by camera shake when shooting hand-held.
Fast Startup and Split-Second Shutter Response: With fast startup and split-second shutter response, the D60 eliminates the frustration of shutter delay, capturing moments that other cameras miss.
Shoot Continuously at up to 3 Frames per Second: Capture sports action, precious moments and fleeting expressions at up to 3 frames per second, for as many as 100 consecutive JPEG images.
Active Dust Reduction System with Airflow Control: Nikon's Active Dust Reduction System activates automatically, along with Airflow Control technology to reduce the amount of dust that reaches the sensor.
Easy Operation with Intuitive Controls: Intuitive controls and an onboard HELP Menu System with Assist Images make the D60 truly easy to use, enabling everyone to capture beautiful memories perfectly.
Nikon's EXPEED Image Processing Concept: Nikon's original digital image processing concept, EXPEED, comprehensively optimizes pictures, shot after shot.
8 Digital-Vari Program Automatic Shooting Modes: Eight Digital Vari-Program Modes include: Auto, Auto Flash-OFF, Portrait, Landscape, Child, Sports, Close Up and Night Portrait; each of which adjusts automatically for optimal results for everyday shooting situations. Each mode considers lighting conditions and possibilities, aperture, shutter speed, white balance, hue, tone, sharpening and more to make creative photography as simple as rotating the mode dial.
Nikon's Smallest Digital SLR Ever! Beautifully styled, the D60 makes high-performance digital SLR photography easier and more convenient than ever. You'll be amazed at the power packed into a camera that weighs just over 16 ounces.
2.5-Inch, 230,000-Dot Color LCD Monitor with 170-Degree Wide-Angle Viewing: Playback images are easy to see and function menus are easier to use with a larger and brighter color LCD monitor. The large 2.5-inch LCD monitor enables image preview at up to 19 times magnification and has large type fonts with easy-to-view menus. Auto rotating LCD display provides automatic horizontal and vertical graphic display orientation.
Advanced HELP Menu System with Assist Images: The D60's Assist Images help you select the appropriate settings for many camera features by showing an example image typical of that setting, as well as an advanced HELP Menu for the current item selected. The D60's Question Mark icon (?) indicates that help is available for the currently selected item; just press the HELP button beside the LCD monitor to see a context-sensitive HELP page.
Nikon 3D Color Matrix Metering II: The D60's 3D Color Matrix Metering II evaluates each scene for brightness, color, contrast, size and position of shadows and highlights, selected focus area and camera-to-subject distance, comparing that information against an onboard database of more than 30,000 actual photographic scenes. The result delivers instantly and precisely determined exposures for each scene, even in challenging lighting conditions.
Image Optimization Options: The D60's Optimize Image setting lets photographers adjust color, contrast and sharpening, as well as other image settings, according to the type of scene or output desired. Settings include: Normal, Softer, Vivid, More Vivid, Portrait, Custom and Black and White, each of which are automatically adjusted based on sophisticated Nikon algorithms or user-selected settings for optimum results.
Built-in Speedlight with i-TTL Automatic Flash Control: Nikon's innovative i-TTL flash control evaluates flash exposure with incredible precision to achieve better automatic flash balance and deliver outstanding results. The built-in Speedlight is always ready to bring beautiful exposures to darkened conditions, as well as add sparkle for fill flash in outdoor situations for enhanced twilight shots or an added impact to daylight images. In low-light or back-light situations, added illumination from the built-in Speedlight can make the difference between an average snapshot and a dazzling picture.
Fast, Accurate 3-Area Autofocus: The D60's advanced 3-Area AF system and the refined algorithms inherited from more advanced Nikon digital SLR cameras deliver fast, efficient and precise Autofocus. AF refinements deliver greater precision with fast, more consistent subject acquisition and improved focus tracking for consistently sharper pictures.
In-Camera Image Editing and Enhanced Retouch Menu: Highly versatile in-camera editing features through the Retouch Menu include Nikon D-Lighting, Red-Eye Correction, Image Trim, Image Overlay, Monochrome (Black and White, Sepia and Cyanotype) along with Skylight, Warm Tone and Color Balance filter effects. New effects and controls include Quick Retouch, NEF (RAW) Processing, Cross Star and Color Intensifier filters. This provides greater creative freedom without the need for a computer for those who prefer to send pictures directly to a printer.
Stop motion video: Creates a stop-motion animation from a sequence of images for added creative fun to your pictures.

Up to 500 Images per Battery Charge: The supplied EN-EL9 rechargeable battery will allow for shooting up to 500 images per charge based on CIPA battery testing standards.
Supplied accessories (may differ by country or area): EN-EL9 Rechargeable Li-ion Battery, MH-23 Quick Charger, UC-E4 USB Cable, DK-20 Rubber Eyecup, AN-DC1 Camera Strap, BF-1A Body Cap , DK-5 Eyepiece Cap, BS-1 Accessory Shoe Cover, Software Suite CD-ROM
Price: ESP 649.95* D60 Digital SLR Camera Outfit includes AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR Lens (Product Number 25438) Other outfits available. *ESP (Estimated Selling Price) listed only as an estimate. Actual prices are set by dealers and are subject to change at any time.

Toshiba Portg M750

2008-10-13T22:09:00.000-07:00

Toshiba Portg M750 Tablet PC
M750-AM1

•The Toshiba Port้g้ M750. Enjoy total flexibility with powerful mobile features and unparalleled reliability. Twist-and-write or twist-and-type functionality, combined with a fast 200GB 7200RPM HDD and EasyGuard features, ensure you’re always productive on the go.

Tecra R10

2008-10-13T22:06:00.000-07:00

Tecra R10

Toshiba this week introduced four new ultraportable Portégé notebooks to its lineup, as well as a new Tecra business class notebook. At the moment, they are only available in Canada.
All of the new Portégé notebooks are based on the Intel Centrino 2 platform and feature Intel GMA X4500 graphics. They have titanium silver chassis, DVD Super-Multi drives, and Windows Vista Business.Tecra R10
The Tecra R10 has a 14.1-inch WXGA display. It featues a Core 2 Duo SP9400 running at 2.4GHz, 4GB of RAM, a 200GB 7200RPM hard drive, and Nvidia Quadro NVS 150M 128MB dedicated graphics. Its 6-cell, 4000mAh battery is good for four hours of life, and the R10 weighs a shade less than four pounds. Toshiba calls the R10 "the fastest and most secure Toshiba laptop ever."

ASUS Eee PC 1000H

2008-10-13T22:01:00.000-07:00

ASUS Eee PC 1000H User Review

When ASUS announced and launched the Eee PC line of subnotebooks last year, they caught the attention of the world with their inexpensive and light products. Dubbed “netbooks” by the community, the original Eee PCs were good for little more than web browsing and word processing. However, they weighed a mere 2lbs., had a tiny footprint, and perhaps most importantly cost only

ASUS has continued expanding on the Eee line with larger and more powerful models, and in June 2008 released the 1000 series, based on a 10” form factor. Many people did not approve of a 10” netbook, arguing that ASUS was crossing into the threshold of mainstream small-and-light notebooks. Moreover, at a launch price of $649, it was creeping into the price range of mainstream notebooks as well. Fortunately, that price has fallen considerably, and I decided to purchase one.
Here are the specifications on the ASUS Eee 1000H.
Intel Atom N270 (1.6GHz, 512KB cache)
1GB DDR2-400 SO-DIMM
80GB 5400RPM 2.5” SATA Hard Drive
Intel GMA950 Integrated Graphics
10” WSVGA 1024x600 LED-backlit screen, 1.3MP webcam
Windows XP Home (comes with ASUS recovery DVD)
Atheros wireless 802.11b/g/n mini PCI-Express card, integrated Bluetooth 2.0
3 USB 2.0 ports, 10/100 ethernet jack, MMC/SD card reader, mic in, headphone out, VGA out, Kensington lock slot
6-cell 6600mAh battery (Asus claims 7.5hr. battery life)
1-year Global Hardware Warranty
Dimensions: 10.5”x7.5”x1.5”, 3.2lbs. with battery

Toshiba Portege M800-E3315P

2008-10-13T21:56:00.000-07:00

Toshiba Portege M800-E3315P

Product Description
Processor: Core 2 Duo P7350 (2.0GHz)Cache L2: 3MB L2 Cache, 1066MHz FSB Memory Std/Max: 1024MB DDR2 SDRAM, 667MHz up to 4096MBHarddisk: 200GB (SATA) with shock absorbersCD-ROM: DVD SuperMulit Double Layer DriveFDD: -Communication: 3xUSB.0 Sleep 'n Charge, RGB, Headphone out with S/P DIF<>

ASUS N50

2008-10-13T21:54:00.001-07:00

ASUS has launched a new notebook called N50 and to make it stand out it has gone with a sober design together with some unique features. First of all, the battery has been pampered and through the Super Hybrid Engine, where the user can furn of functions to save power, ASUS N50 can run up to 4.5 hours with a 6-cell battery. Not too bad considering the size. Asus Health Ionizer goes even further and is said to improve the mental energy of the user by emitting negative ions that increase the blood flow to the brain. It would be nice to seem some tests confirming this, although be careful when measuring.
The press release is after the break.

Smart and Trendy – Introducing the new ASUS N50 Notebook SeriesA Fusion of Cutting-edge Technologies and Style
The new ASUS N50 notebook series is a sign of true innovation in both style and technology.With its new streamline design and new generation of infusion technology that sweeps over the N50 with a fine and subtle graphical decoration it is simple yet seductive creating a new and trendy look. Innovative developments such as a new keyboard design and dual mode touch sensor designed for intuitive control and user-friendliness offers an entirely new and uplifting user experience.
Thanks to a breakthrough in power saving with a new highly-efficient feature called Super Hybrid Engine (SHE) which automatically allocates power, preserving battery life up to 35%*. The N50 can get a battery time of up to 4.5 hours with a 6 cell battery.
* Subject to system configuration
Another unique feature of the N50 is a built-in Air Ionizer creating negative ions that not only helps to clean the air around the user of allergens and germs, but also increases the flow of oxygen to the brain resulting in higher alertness, decreased drowsiness, and more mental energy.

Trendy Looks – Cutting-edge Style In designing the N Series notebooks, ASUS utilized cutting-edge technologies, particularly in the use of In-Mold Roller Technology which creates a scratch-resistant panel that retains its shiny finish even after prolonged use. Boasting a streamlined exterior with shiny metal-like inlaid patterns inspired by modernist art-deco, N Series notebooks deliver performance with style.
Trendy Looks - New keyboard designThe new keyboard design doesn’t only look better but also makes it more comfortable to type with. The tight key spacing also makes it harder for dust to accumulate and water to slip through. Even though N50 is a 15” notebook it has a full numeric keyboard design making it perfect for work.
Smart Technology – Dual mode touch SensorTurning on the N50 will make the invisible dual mode touch sensor to light up and become visible with a row of backlit touch-sensitive buttons that serves both as a system control as well as an intuitive and convenient point of multimedia control for instantaneous multimedia enjoyment.
Smart Technology – 15.4”W LED with AI Light sensorEquipped with a led backlit lcd with an AI light sensor the lcd doesn’t only automatically choose the optimum brightness to save power but it also makes it more comfortable for your eyes.The led panel is not only more power sufficient but it also has several other benefits over the traditional CCFL such as higher brightness, better saturation, RoHs Compliant and free from lead & mercury.

Information From

http://www.nordichardware.com/news,8186.html

PC MightyMax

2008-10-12T19:40:00.000-07:00

PC MightyMax is a Microsoft Windows diagnostic and repair program designed to fix problems with the following versions of Windows:
Microsoft Windows 95
Microsoft Windows 98
Microsoft Windows ME
Microsoft Windows 2000
Microsoft Windows XP (Home, Media Center, Professional, Tablet PC)
Microsoft Windows Vista (Home Basic, Home Premium, Business, Ultimate) Using PC MightyMax to automatically repair problems with Microsoft Windows is as easy as the click of a mouse. Here are a few examples of the types of problems that can be fixed by PC MightyMax:
Microsoft Windows Error MessagesSeemingly random error messages can grind your Windows computer productivity to a halt. The advanced repair technology in PC MightyMax will automatically fix many types of error messages. Fix Microsoft Windows Error Messages Now.
Microsoft Windows Registry ErrorsThe Microsoft Windows Registry is the “brain” of your computer. The “brain” of PC MightyMax is an industry leading advanced registry repair engine. The Windows registry stores information about every aspect of your computer, and is in constant use. When the Microsoft Windows registry is not working properly, you can experience a wide variety of problems with your computer. Fix Microsoft Windows Registry Errors Now

Alwil Avast 4 Professional

2008-10-12T19:29:00.000-07:00

Alwil Avast 4 Professional Edition
This program offers decent overall malware detection, but poor proactive protection, and an awkward design. It also lacks U.S. phone support.

Alwil Software's Avast 4 Professional Edition came in with a disappointing sixth-place finish in "Virus Stoppers," our eight-program antivirus roundup, despite a decent 92 percent success rate at detecting malware (compared to 96 percent for top performers).
Its ranking was hurt by its poor performance in our proactive tests: Avast caught only 37 percent of new malware using one-month-old signature files, the second-worst showing. For disinfection, its performance was about average. It cleaned all infected files, but missed changes to the Hosts network settings file and some less-important Registry entries, catching 78 percent of all possible items.
The program installed smoothly, with appropriate default settings for the average person. It offers two interface options: One is a distinct, media player-type control panel that makes it easy to figure out how to launch a scan or set a manual boot-time scan; a second "enhanced interface" lets you access and fine-tune more settings, but it's not nearly as user-friendly as the other option.
After installation, Avast runs one full-system startup scan. But in the awkward advanced interface, we could not find a place to set up a regularly scheduled scan. The only option we could find enables scans whenever the screen saver is running, but even this setting was difficult to locate. And Alwil Software does not offer phone support in the United States.
Avast scans a good range of e-mail and news protocols, including POP3, SMTP, IMAP, and NNTP. It also scans all Web traffic. And Avast's comprehensive instant messaging protection fully supports several popular IM clients--AIM, ICQ, MSN, Skype, Trillian, and Yahoo Messenger--as well as lesser-known chat tools such as Gaim, Miranda, and Pal Talk Messenger.
Avast maintains a useful, built-in Virus Recovery Database on your PC, which you can theoretically use to repair infected program (.exe) files. (We didn't test this functionality.)
This paid Professional version costs $40, with a $28 yearly renewal fee. Alwil Software also offers a free Home version, which lacks some features such as the ability to run scheduled scans and view previous scan results.
We tested the Vista version of Avast 4 Professional Edition for our "Virus Stoppers" roundup. An XP version of the software is also available.

Information from

WWW.MSN.com

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H10

2008-10-12T19:23:00.000-07:00

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H10/B - digital camera

Zoom in and capture all the action with the H10. This full-featured point-and-shoot shines, with outstanding high-power zoom capability and Advanced Sports mode for split-second detail. It includes Face Detection technology to optimize focus, exposure and color for up to eight faces. Snap incredibly clear photos with 8.1 megapixel resolution, and enjoy tight close-ups with the 10x optical zoom Carl Zeiss lens. Sony's Double Anti-Blur solution helps keep your images blur-free, and the 3.0" Clear Photo LCD Plus display tilts for easily

New NVIDIA Quadro FX

2008-10-05T19:06:00.001-07:00

New NVIDIA Quadro FX Mobile Graphics from Ultra High Performance to Ultra Mobility

Leading workstation manufacturers such as Dell, Fujitsu Siemens Computers, HP, and Lenovo are now offering the new series of Quadro® FX mobile GPUs across a wide range of professional notebook workstations. The reference standard for OpenGL 2.1, DirectX 10, and Shader Model 4.0, Quadro FX mobile solutions enable next-generation CAD, DCC, and visualization applications with new levels of interactivity for unprecedented mobile capabilities.

Information From

http://sg.nvidia.com/page/quadrofx_go.html

Unleash Your Visual

2008-10-05T19:04:00.001-07:00

Unleash Your Visual Computing Possibilities

Engineered to provide the most robust NVIDIA Quadro® GPU visualization performance to date, the Quadro Plex systems are ideal for the styling and design, geosciences and scientific visualization industries, working with extremely large 3D models and datasets. The new Quadro Plex series delivers performance improvements of up to 100% over previous models, CUDA parallel processing cores for massive visualization, and large-scale projection and power wall display capabilities so you can unleash your visual computing possibilities.

Information From

http://sg.nvidia.com/page/quadrofx_go.html

GeForce 9 Series

2008-10-05T19:02:00.000-07:00

GeForce 9 Series Gaming Goodness at an Incredible Price

Enjoy more realistic game play, vibrant photos, and smoother videos with NVIDIA's latest GPU—the NVIDIA® GeForce® 9400 GT. At the lowest price point in the GeForce 9 Series product line up, GeForce 9400 GT offers a 2x performance increase over the GeForce 8400 GS GPU. Playing the latest PC games just got a whole lot smoother.

Information From

http://sg.nvidia.com/object/product_geforce_9400gt_sg.html

Suite 4 with NVIDIA GPU

2008-10-05T18:59:00.000-07:00

Unprecedented Performance and Dazzling New Features in Adobe Creative Suite 4 with NVIDIA GPU Acceleration

With built-in NVIDIA® GPU acceleration, the new Adobe® Creative Suite® 4 enables a faster, more natural way of working with images, while improving quality and productivity. Adobe Creative Suite 4 features a variety of creative applications, including Adobe Photoshop® CS4, which automatically detect the presence of an NVIDIA Quadro® or GeForce® GPU and use the processor to speed a number of visually intensive operations. For more information on NVIDIA GPU solutions for Adobe Photoshop CS4, Adobe After Effects® CS4, and Adobe Premiere Pro® CS4, please visit

Information Data

http://sg.nvidia.com/object/adobe_sg.html.

Device Manager

2008-10-01T20:42:00.000-07:00

Device Manager Overview
Microsoft Windows 95, 98, and ME users enter the Windows Device Manager by clicking Start, Settings, Control Panel, System icon, and finally clicking the Device Manager tab.
Microsoft Windows 2000 and XP users enter the Windows Device Manager by clicking Start, Settings, Control Panel, System icon, Hardware tab, and clicking the Device Manager button.
Users who have a keyboard with a windows key may also quickly get to the system prosperities by pressing the Windows key and the Pause key at the same time.
Below is a basic example of what the Microsoft Window Device Manager may look like when open. Clicking on the below image will open a more readable version of this picture.
Click Image

Also be sure to review our Device Manager categories section below for a good overview of each of the categories found in the Windows Device Manager.

Information From

http://www.computerhope.com/win95er.htm

Windows sharing

2008-10-01T20:21:00.000-07:00

How to enable Windows sharing - Windows file sharing for Macintosh

1. Install File Services for Macintosh
To Install File Services for Macintosh, go to Control Panel>Windows Components, select Other Network file and Print Services.

2. Create shared folders for Macintosh users
To create shared folders for Macintosh users or in Macintosh volumes, right-click on My Computer, select Manage>System Tools>Shared Folders, right-click Shares>New>File share

In the Create Shared Folder, check the Apple Macintosh, browse the folder to share, in our case ms-mvps. Then type the Macintosh share name such as ms-mvps. click Next to finish.

Now, if you have assigned permission to Macintosh users, they should be able to access the shared folder, ms-mvps.

Information From

http://www.howtonetworking.com/Networking/macsharing3.htm

create the same workgroup

2008-10-01T20:18:00.000-07:00

Do I need to create the same workgroup name for my network

No, not really. You can have multiple workgroups in your network. However, it's better to create the same workgroup name on all computers. That will make it easier and save time to find other computers, especially in the first 15 minutes after logon.
Workgroup common Issue 1 - doesn't work after adding W2K/XP
SYMPTOMS: When setting up a Peer-to-Peer Workgroup, you may have difficulty to network all computers that are running W2K, XP, Win9x, ME and NT. The issues may include the inability to connect to a shared folder or a shared printer, the inability to browse by using Network Neighborhood in Windows 95 or Windows 98, or the inability to browse by using My Network Places in Windows 2000. Some people may find that, before W2K/XP were installed, the computers may have communicated effectively with the other workgroup computers.
RESOLUTIONS: To resolve these issues, configure all computers to have a common networking protocol, a common workgroup, and common user names and passwords
Workgroup common Issue 2 - problem in a mixed OS
Symptoms: 1) win9x computers can see each others but not W2K or XP. 2) win9x and W2K/XP can ping each other by using IP but not computer names. 3) Net view \\computername shows error 53.
Resolutions: this is a name resolution issue. Since this is a workgroup without WINS server, you may need to enable NetBIOS over TCP/IP on W2K/XP. Note: some people find that installing NetBEUI or IPX also work. But loading NetBEUI or IPX is not recommended. If enabling NetBIOS over TCP/IP doesn't work while loading NetBEUI works, this is not name resolution issue. This may cause because of a software like firewall is running.
How to setup bridging network connection
If your computer with two NICs resides between two different IP subnets or two segment networks such as Ethernet network and HomePNA network, you can bridge the tow networks so that it can communicate with each segment. But you can't bridge an Ethernet connection with a VPN or dial-up connection. Also, don't bridge a private network with a connection that has a public Internet.
To bridge two networks, under Network Connections, select two connections (use Shift+Ctrl) you want to bridge, right-click or click Advanced>Bridge Connection. You can have only one network bridge , but the bridge can support multiple connections. You can easily add or remove connections from ntwork bridge by right-clicking the connection and choosing Remove From Bridge or Add To Bridge

Information From
http://www.howtonetworking.com/workgroupsetup.htm

Peer to Peer Workgroup Setup

2008-10-01T20:14:00.000-07:00

Peer to Peer Workgroup Setup

Hardware
1. NIC - each networking computer needs a network adapter to communicate with others.2. Hub or router - if you want to connect more than two machines and access the Internet, it is better to have a router to offer DHCP feature, easy setup and manage, and protect your computers.3. Cable or crossover cable - if you have only computers and save some money, you can have a crossover cable to connect those machines directly.
Configuration
1. Workgroup - it is better to setup a same workgroup on all computers2. Client for MS Network - must be enabled to access the network3. File and Printer Sharing - accessed computer should enable the File and Printer Sharing for other computers accessing4. User Accounts - for users logon and setup permission5. Permission - setup necessary permission for users to access network resources6. Protocol - TCP/IP is we want
We assume you have all computers physically connected to a router which is connecting to the Internet. The router is also a DHCP server.
Win9x Setup
To check or setup your network, open Control Panel>Network. Under Configuration tab, you should have Client for MS Networks, NIC, TCP/IP and perhaps File and Printer sharing for MS Networks. If you do not have click Add and then follow the instruction to install them. Also make sure you select Client for MS Networks as Primary Logon Network.
Now, double-click TCP/IP to check the TCP/IP settings. Normally, you should keep the default settings: Obtain a IP Address Automatically, no WINS, Gateway and DNS setting. This means all computers will get IP, DNS and Gateway from the router as the DHCP server.
Click Identification tab, type a unique name for each computer and the same group name for all computers.
If you want other machines access data or/and printer on this win9x, enable file and printer sharing, and right-click the folders you want to share. Following the instruction to finish the sharing.
Win2k/XP Setup
You will do the same network settings on win2k/XP by going to My Network Places. The differences are 1) you may want to check NetBIOS over TCP/IP by going to Properties of TCP/IP>Advanced. 2) If you have a laptop using at home and work, and you also want to have same peer-to-peer workgroup name as the same your company's domain, you should install the domain name as the workgroup name at home, then join the laptop to the domain (have your company administrator do that for you). 3) you need to create user accounts for each user logging on the network and access the resources. To do that, right-click My Computer>Manager>Local users and groups. This is very important step. 4) after creating all user accounts, you need to assign necessary permission for each user to access the computer. 4) if you this machine access both home and domain network, you are better to create one local logon matching the domain logon and also the password should be the same.
TestNow, it is the time to test your network settings. After reboot all computers, logon the user name you created in win2k (it is easy for sharing if you use just the same logon name on both win98 and win2k). Open My Neighborhood and My Network Places to check the sharing folders and printers.

Information From
http://www.howtonetworking.com/workgroupsetup.htm

What is Motherboard ?

2008-09-23T23:58:00.000-07:00

What is Motherboard ?

Also known as the mainboard or logic board, this is the main circuit board of your computer. If you ever open your computer up, the biggest piece of silicon you see is the motherboard. This is where you'll find the CPU, the ROM, memory expansion slots, PCI slots, serial ports, USB ports, and all the controllers for things like the hard drive, DVD drive, keyboard, and mouse. Basically, the motherboard is what makes everything in your computer work together. Each motherboard has a collection of chips and controllers that is known as the "chipset". When new motherboards are developed, they often use new chipsets. The good news is that these boards are typically more efficient and faster than their predecessors. The bad news is that you may not be able to add certain memory and CPU upgrades to older motherboards. Of course, that's typical of the computer industry.

The motherboard of a typical desktop consists of a large printed circuit board. It holds electronic components and interconnects, as well as physical connectors (sockets, slots, and headers) into which other computer components may be inserted or attached.

Peripheral card slots
A typical motherboard of 2007 will have a different number of connections depending on its standard. A standard ATX motherboard will typically have 1x PCI-E 16x connection for a graphics card, 2x PCI slots for various expansion cards and 1x PCI-E 1x which will eventually supersede PCI.
A standard Super ATX motherboard will have 1x PCI-E 16x connection for a graphics card. It will also have a varying number of PCI and PCI-E 1x slots. It can sometimes also have a PCI-E 4x slot. This varies between brands and models.
Some motherboards have 2x PCI-E 16x slots to allow more than 2 monitors without special hardware or to allow use of a special graphics technology called SLI (for Nvidia) and Crossfire (for ATI). These allow 2 graphics cards to be linked together to allow better performance in intensive graphical computing tasks such as gaming and video editing.
As of 2007, virtually all motherboards come with at least 4x USB ports on the rear with at least 2 connections on the board internally for wiring additional front ports that are built into the computers case. Ethernet is also included now. This is a standard networking cable for connecting the computer to a network or a modem. A sound chip is always included on the motherboard to allow sound to be output without the need for any extra components. This allows computers to be far more multimedia based than before. Cheaper machines now often have their graphics chip built into the motherboard rather than a separate card.

Nvidia SLI and ATI Crossfire
Nvidia SLI and ATI Crossfire technology allows 2 or more of the same series graphics cards to be linked together to allow a faster graphics experience. Almost all medium to high end Nvidia cards and most high end ATI cards support the technology.
They both require compatible motherboards. There is an obvious need for 2x PCI-E 16x slots to allow 2 cards to be inserted into the computer. The same function can be acheived in 650i motherboards by NVIDIA, with a pair of x8 slots. Originally, tri-Crossfire was acheived at 8x speeds with 2 16x slots and 1 8x slot albeit at a slower speed. ATI opened the technology up to Intel in 2006 and such all new Intel chipsets support Crossfire.
SLI is a little more proprietary in its needs. It requires a motherboard with Nvidia's own NForce chipset series to allow it to run.
Although this might seem like a great idea, it is important to note that SLI and Crossfire only offer up to 1.5x the performance of a single card when using a dual setup. They also do not double the effective amount of Vram.

Information From

Data http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Motherboard , http://www.iwebtool.com/what_is_motherboard.html

Double-Data-Rate

2008-09-23T23:53:00.000-07:00

Double-Data-Rate Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory

Double-Data-Rate Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory, better known as DDRDDRDDR SDRAM or DDRDDRDDR RAMRAMRAM for short, is a type of very fast computer memory. DDRDDRDDR RAMRAMRAM is based on the same architecture as SDRAM, but utilizes the clock signal differently to transfer twice the data in the same amount of time.
In a computer system. the clock signal is an oscillating frequency used to coordinate interaction between digital circuits. Simply put, it synchronizes communication. Digital circuits designed to operate on the clock signal may respond at the rising or falling edge of the signal. SDRAM memory chips utilized only the rising edge of the signal to transfer data, while DDRDDRDDR RAMRAMRAM transfers data on both the rising and falling edges of the clock signal. Hence, DDRDDRDDR RAMRAMRAM is essentially twice as fast as SDRAM.
RAMRAMRAM speed works in conjunction with the front side bus (FSB) of a computer system. The FSB is the two-way data channel that sends information from the central processing unit (CPU) throughout the Motherboard to the various components, including the RAMRAMRAM, BIOS chips, hard drives and PCI slots. Therefore, a computer system with a FSB of 133MHz running DR SDRAM will essentially perform like a 266MHz machine.
The 184-pin DDRDDRDDR RAMRAMRAM dual in-line memory modules (DIMMS) only work properly in a motherboard designed for their use. While DDRDDRDDR RAMRAMRAM comes in various speeds, installing a version faster than a motherboard can support is a waste of money. The DDRDDRDDR RAMRAMRAM will only run as fast as the motherboard permits. DDRDDRDDR RAMRAMRAM is visually differentiated from SDRAM in that SDRAM is a 168-pin DIMM with a double notch at the bottom along the pins -- one notch just off-center, the other offside. The 184-pin DDRDDRDDR SDRAM has a single off-center notch.
DDRDDRDDR RAMRAMRAM is generally made for processors 1GHz and faster. Designations like PC1600 DDRDDRDDR SDRAM and PC2100 DDRDDRDDR SDRAM coincide with particular FSB and CPU speeds. AMD and Intel use different schemes to designate processor speed, and the various technicalities in RAMRAMRAM designations and standards can be confusing. Check your motherboard manual to see what RAMRAMRAM type is compatible with your system before purchasing memory.

Information From

http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-sdram.htm