Well, I am sorry but this is probably the strangest idea I've ever heard of in mobile banking... Actually fixed banking: Telecom New Zealand is installing an ATM Payphone:

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TSB Bank and Telecom have teamed up to trial New Zealand's first ATM Payphone kiosk. The kiosk will allow people "on the move" to do their banking and make phone calls from the same handy location.



Telecom National Payphone Manager Lisa Hope said "Telecom operates approximately 4,300 payphones in New Zealand and like payphone operators worldwide is seeking new ways to deliver value to customers."

"There are payphone operators internationally that operate ATM Payphone sites and there is evidence that these sites are popular with customers," Mrs Hope said.




Well perhaps somewhere else... But in New Zealand, where there is a huge penetration of cellular technology?

I can imagine someone going to the ATM to withdrawal some cash, and by the way "I will make a phone call here while a line is forming behind me".

But most importantly:

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The ATM service features all current services provided via standard ATM's (sic) and has the most secure ATM technology available. Features include 3DES encryption, anti-skimming facia and card insertion and removal jitter.

Standard Telecom Payphone charges will apply for phone calls made from the ATM Payphone.


I feel safe already...

UPDATE: Added a picture as requested by sbiddle, and got a quote from Telecom New Zealand:

If you're wondering about the reasoning behind sticking an ATM on a payphone.... It enables TSB to get access to pre-existing high profile sites around NZ allowing them to expand their network easily, and the advantage for Telecom Payphones is that they get to share the site rental.

With ADT Anti-Skim™ ATM Security Solutions as part of your security program, you are better equipped to safeguard your ATM customers against skimming crimes. The ADT solution works on all major ATM makes and models, and on both motorized and non-motorized card readers. It can integrate seamlessly with branch security systems, such as intrusion detection alarm panels and video surveillance DVRs, for more effective, layered ATM security.

At the core of ADT Anti-Skim™ Security Solutions is CPK+* (Card Protection Kit) technology, an advanced anti-skimming protective device installed inside your ATMs near the ATM’s card reader.

CPK+ Jamming Transmitter
CPK+ helps prevent the skimming of card data by emitting an electromagnetic field to interrupt the operation of an illegal card-reader head, without interrupting the customer transaction or the operation of most ATMs.

Surface Detection Kit (SDK)
The SDK sensor helps detect foreign devices placed near or over the ATM card-entry slot, whether made of plastic, paper, iron or wood. Upon detection, ADT Anti-Skim™ Security Solutions relays output signals from the SDK, triggering silent alarms for monitoring center response, or to coordinate DVR surveillance sequencing of skimming activities.
Schedule a Demonstration

Your ADT Financial & Banking sales representative has more information on how Anti-skimming ATM Security Solutions can help combat ATM crime, reduce fraud losses and prevent ATM identity theft. We can also assist you in assessing other corrective measures you can take to help ensure banking security for your institution.

Following the introduction of Malta’s first touch screen ATM and first ATM fully protected with ink stain technology, Bank of Valletta is enhancing the service offered through its network by offering the facility of dispensing €40 notes in addition to the usual euro notes currently being issued.

There are no additional procedures – by following the instructions provided on the ATM screen, customers just need to follow the regular practice of entering their debit or credit card, keying-in their PIN number, and requesting a cash withdrawal.

Bank of Valletta ATM’s are user friendly and are intended to offer all customers a fast and efficient service that is both safe and practical to use. The €40 note will further strengthen the popularity of Bank of Valletta ATM’s amongst customers. ATMs are also a useful channel for customers wishing to make deposits without having to enter the branch.

With the largest network of over 70 ATMs around Malta and Gozo, and with over half a million transactions made every month by customers, Bank of Valletta is confirmed as the brand of choice for automated banking.

Motorola, Inc. announced two new Bluetooth enabled headsets, the Motorola H620 and Motorola H560. Featuring noise reduction and echo cancellation technology and TrueComfort™ design, these new headsets are compatible with over 200 Bluetooth enabled devices from over fifteen brands. The H620 is a complete in-car solution while the H560 allows consumers to stay hands-free while on the go.
“Consumers can depend on Motorola for quality Bluetooth enabled headsets that deliver both an outstanding audio experience and comfort with style,” stated Jason Few, corporate vice president & general manager, Motorola Companion Products. “With the H620 and H560, Motorola is continuing to offer consumers hands-free solutions that fit their life, whether it’s a headset specifically designed for the car or an on the go busy lifestyle.”

Motorola Universal Bluetooth In-Car Headset H620

The first ever Motorola Bluetooth enabled headset optimized for the car, the Motorola H620 offers clear and comfortable hands-free conversations.1 Road noise will be a thing of the past with H620’s noise reduction and echo cancellation technology. In addition, the volume automatically adjusts as road noise increases to deliver clear calls for both people in the conversation.
With a dashboard headset holder and rapid in-car charger, the H620 is an ideal in-car solution. The sleek headset also supports phone voice dialing to keep users eyes on the road, Motorola’s patented TrueComfort design, EasyPair technology and a discreet three-color indicator light that enables users to check the battery level.

Motorola Universal Bluetooth Headset H560

The Motorola H560 delivers quality audio and comfort in a distinct design. The H560 improves call clarity on both sides of the conversation with noise reduction and echo cancellation technology as well as automatic volume control that increases or decreases the volume based on the noise level in the surrounding environment.
The H560 features TrueComfort design that channels clear audio directly into the ear. Multiple sizes of ear cushions ensure the best fit to create a seal that helps reduce background noise. EasyPair technology makes it simple to connect with more than 200 models of compatible Bluetooth enabled devices2, and a discreet, three-color battery indicator light enables users to check battery life.

Unique design with slender monoblock, thin and ultra light weight. Completed with standard 1.3 MP digital camera, speaker, support Multimedia Messaging System. Sure , you can connect to the internet too if you install the device as a modem and connected to your computer.

The Nokia 2228 CDMA will be launched this year end for unknown price. See here for complete specifications.

The T-Mobile G1 with Google Android available to buy online from T-Mobile shopping-cart for US$179.99 but remember to sign 2-years contract using the services. The following accessories included:
1GB SD Card
Battery
Charger
USB Cable
Stereo Hands-Free Headset
Don't forget to share your experience with the first Google Android smartphone here. Is it the ultimate internet mobile phone?

If you are the owner of independent webhosting business and would like to get your webhosting submitted and rated, just simply submit your webhosting through webhostingrating.com. Simple registration process by filling the following required information: Company name, Contact Name, Host name (username), Contact Email, Host URL, Password, In hosting business since. They provide Web Hosting Directory and Web Hosting Rating service even they already announced Hosting Award 2008 winner. May be your hosting company become the winner for the next year.

The Web Hosting Directory featuring complete information on all web hosting providers, web hosting plans, promotional and discount coupons, and unedited reviews by real customers.

The rating system is based on the customer satisfaction, affordability, reliability, uptime and technical support. The rating result can be filtered by Type (Unix, Linux, Windows, VPS, Reseller, Dedicated, Colocation, Managed, etc) or CMS based (Joomla, Drupal, MODx, Wordpress, b2evolution. phpBB, vBulletin, SMF, Coppermine, PHPwiki, etc).

And for you who is looking for a best web hosting service that conform your needs, you can start it here. There are so many article that will help you before deciding your chosen web hosting service provider. And find promotional packages or discount coupons to give you the best deal.

Interesting. Now i will give different address to each of my partner and all message will still be catch in my original address mailbox.

Indonesian carrier Indosat, submitted The RIM BlackBerry Bold on October 17, 2008 to its 500 customer who had been pre-ordered the handset. Indosat customer purchased The Bold for US$872 with additional special 5% discount. Indosat previously announced the BlackBerry Bold for its customer in August 28, 2008 including the services package pricing.

Indosat is the first carrier who brought 'The Greatest Smartphone' BlackBerry in Indonesia since 2004. And became the official partner of RIM International for Indonesia.

The latest music video from Britney Spears with single 'Womanizer' featuring Nokia 'Tube' 5800 XpressMusic. The video hits the internet with more than 7 millions clicks in just 48 hours! The ultimate placement from Nokia.

Now, 'Womanizer' from Britney Spears topping The Billboard Hot 100 single chart, the first time since her debut single in 1999 'Baby One More Time'

I actually don't understand what p@sco said about Nokia N85 on his page (translate) but i trust in blind to Steve Litchfiel (allaboutsymbian) and Darren Murph (engadget) that p@sco definetely said 'Nokia N85 is very-very beautiful and the top symbian phone in the world even trumping Nokia N96 overall'

K-Touch C800 claimed as the first mobile phone with the biggest camera resolution that sold in Indonesia. The C800 has 8MP built-in camera with 2,8 inch LCD in 256k colours. Enable 3x optical zoom with CCD censored. Full review in Indonesian.

Nothing interesting, but K-Touch already hire Rianti Cartwright as Brand Ambassador. The beauty starring Indonesian box-office movie 'Ayat-Ayat Cinta' (The Verses of Love).

T-Mobile already announced that the RIM first BlackBerry flip phone available with two years contract for US$149.99. The BlackBerry Pearl Flip 8220 which previously known as "Kickstart" icludes the same features as BlackBerry Pearl but with:
Size and Weight - 3.9" x 1.96" x 0.68" and 3.6oz
Dual LCD - external LCD for preview of messages and calls and internal LCD QVGA 2.4-inch diagonal screen (320x240 pixels) with 65K colors
Communication - Wi-Fi internet access and Unlicensed Mobile Access (UMA) for bridging cell and VoIP calling
Multimedia - 2MP digital camera with flash which support for video recording, media player, games, GPS and maps, headphone jack
Storage - external microSDHC slot support up to 16GB
Software - BlackBerry Bold OS 4.6.0.162, full HTML browser, Media Sync software to load iTunes songs
Go here for full detail features

AOL "push" Mail, AIM, and ICQ also works for IMBlackBerry series as RIM and AOL already got a deal to operate those services.

Here is the new 1/8 Pro Buggy from GS for the 2005 season; the Storm CL-1.

Designing by Mr Claude Lachat, this car has been created exclusively for raceing with the lastest in off-road racing technology. There is huge selection of revised and brand new pieces made especially for this kit compared to the Storm 2004.

The result is a buggy with a tremendous range of tuneability for everything from loose, dusty tracks to high-bite, high grip conditions. The Storm CL-1 provides a more stable, predictable driving feel that serious racers expect. Simple, Efficient, Light, are the 3 words which sum up the Storm CL-1.

Police are appealing to the public to help find the owners of antique jewellery, pocket watches, scales and cufflinks found in Invercargill on Sunday.

Detective Lisa Watt, of Queenstown, said police located a stolen vehicle on Oreti beach early on Sunday.

The occupant, a 25-year-old Dunedin man, was arrested and charged with unlawfully taking the vehicle.

Det Watt said the man was also charged with burglary of the owner's address in Cashmere, Christchurch, on March 1.

A large amount of allegedly stolen property was also located.

"Some of this belonged to tourists who were holidaying at Queenstown backpacker accommodation burgled in late March."

Several other items were also recovered, including a computer, camera, a cash box and iPods which had been stolen during residential burglaries in Queenstown in late March in Atley Rd, Moonlight Track, Arthurs Point Rd and Peninsula Rd in Kelvin Heights, she said.

However, a large number of antique items had been recovered, but had not been linked to owners.

Anyone who could help find the owner of the items was asked to contact Det Watt on (03) 441-1617.

The man charged was remanded in custody and is to reappear in the Invercargill District Court on May 19.

Check out these pretty amazing high tech luxurious hoovers. Not only do the Miele S7 vacuum cleaners look like it came from outer space thanks to the front LEDs, sensors, and LCD screen, but also because of its smart design, which allows it to twist in every direction to the point of laying flat and transform with all kinds of built-in contraptions.

The Miele S7 has LED lights to illuminate every place it reaches while you suck pizza crumbles, Lego pieces, and dead spiders thanks to a 1,800-watt engine, built-in sensors that adjust speed and height depending on the surface and a six-litre vacuum bag. The S7 has a twisting head design that allows it to turn into every direction possible, including laying down on the floor, completely flat.

Unlike other vacuum cleaners, this one comes with all the different accessories to clean special surfaces built in its own body. Therefore, there’s no need to go to the closet to get them.

The range includes five different models that vary in price and function from the lemon yellow S7210 at £249 to the LED-controlled S7580 pictured here at £370.

General Scanning Solutions brings you features never before available in a scan head family. Named Lightning Digital Scan Heads, its performance was defined as “Best in Class” by our customers. It also offers you incredible design flexibility with modular design architecture and TuneMaster Tune Optimization Software. TuneMaster allows real time application domain tuning to meet your specific applications needs with the desired balance of speed and accuracy. Lightning Digital Scan Heads combine 16-bit digital servo technology with high performance galvanometers in a compact modular scan head design for multiple configuration options and easy plug and play integration into your laser system. These scan heads are ideal for high speed marking, serialization, bar code marking, data matrix coding, processing-on-the-fly and more. Lightning Digital Scan Heads deliver high speed beam steering for high performance and increased throughput for your system.





General Scanning Solutions brings you the latest technology in high performance scan heads available. Named Lightning XP Digital Scan Heads, they offer the latest state space digital servo technology matched with high performance galvanometers in a compact rugged scan head design. State space servo technology (SSST) has user feed forward commands with trajectory planning using a real time simulator. SSST delivers higher speeds and greater accuracy than traditional PID servo designs. Also, Lightning I is self-tuning which means your system is always running with the highest performance and with the greatest efficiency. These core components are offered with industry standard mechanical bolt patterns, industry standard power and communication pinouts as well as a range of popular apertures, mirror coatings and lenses making them ideal for easy OEM design integration. These scan heads are suited for the highest performance applications such as high speed marking, data matrix marking, coding, drilling, texturing and more. Lightning XP Digital Scan Heads give improved beam steering with the greatest efficiency, superior performance and increased throughput for your system.

Lia Timson rounds up the coolest gadgets at the latest technology trade show.

Tech heads and early adopters must have had a field day at CeBIT, Australia's largest technology trade show. It wrapped up this week, clearing the way for the latest hardware and software to be embraced by consumers and businesses. Some of the gear is already available, other devices will arrive later this year. Much of it capitalises on the trend toward mobile work.

Among the stars of the show was the ultra-mobile personal computer (UMPC) - between a tablet PC and a personal digital assistant (PDA) - with full PC capabilities at half of the price of a tablet. The new $1650 EO from TabletKiosk is 50 per cent bigger than the average PDA, runs Windows XP and ditches Pocket PC applications in favour of full Windows software versions.

It's handier and lighter than a tablet or laptop and more useful than a PDA, primarily because of its 17cm touch screen. The UMPC will come with hard drives from 30GB to 160GB, and with memory up to 1GB. It is Wi-Fi and internet enabled, but does not have a mobile phone, although we are told one can be connected via Bluetooth.

Hugo Ortega, the principal of Tegatech Australia (http://www.tegatech.com.au), distributors of the EO, says demand has already outstripped initial estimates, with 250 units sold in the first two hours of orders opening. It arrives in June.

"From what we've seen, there is demand for digital ink to take notes on the screen and have it transcribed to Word or other [program]," Ortega says. He says it will finally do away with paper notebooks carried around by students and note-taking professionals.

Samsung and Asus also have ultra-mobile PCs on the way soon.

Still on the portable stakes, a new credit card-size USB flash drive has arrived.

The compact Wallet Flash (http://www.walletex.com) has a double-sided USB port that sticks out and is small enough to fit snugly with other cards in your wallet.

Gilad Grinbaum, the director of G-Innovations (http://www.ginnovations.com.au), distributors of the Israeli-developed device, says it is waterproof, and starts from $30 for 128MB of storage.

If you're a mobile worker in tough and secret conditions, Panasonic's Toughbook CF-51 arrives in September (http://www.panasonic.com.au). It is water and shock resistant and comes in a magnesium-alloy case. The 80GB hard drive is removable for security, and fingerprint and smart-card readers are optional. The series was designed to meet US military durability requirements.

Those working from home but wanting to bill calls to the office will like the Panasonic internet-protocol (IP) Softphone for PCs and laptops. It works over the net to bring the office telephone system to you.

Both are available only to businesses, but GoTalk's new VoIP USB memory stick is available through retailers for $49. It allows travellers to make cheap internet calls anywhere a laptop or PC is accessible.

For those who use a headset for calls at work, Polaris Communications (http://www.polaris.com.au) launched the Soundshield, a USB device that plugs into existing landline headsets to eliminate those frightful high-pitched sounds. It is billed as an "acoustic safety device" because it prevents acoustic shock syndrome suffered by headset users, which could lead to tinnitus and permanent hearing loss.

Polaris business development manager Anita Bowtell says shrieks are caused by fax machines and other interferences, and penetrate the operators' ears, damaging hearing. The company developed the software after inheriting it from Telstra a few years ago.

Finally, a gadget to protect your valuables or car. The TrimTrac 1.5 GPS locator tracks the position of your asset, limits its geographical movements and even locks the car's doors and disables its engine remotely. Expect to pay $500 for the privilege.

CeBIT was held at Darling Harbour from May 9 to 11, catering to 700 exhibitors and 30,000 visitors.

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This new touch screen quad band GSM phone is fully loaded with astounding features and high technical specification with soaring user interface for providing users with smoother mobile computing. The highlighting feature of this amazing mobile is its 3 inches wide screen with display resolution of 240 x 400 pixels and 256k colors.

LG KM555E also has an in built accelerometer sensor which detects the mode of the display screen according to the position of the mobile phone. This eye catching LG KM555E comes with 3.15 mega pixel camera with high image resolution of 2048 x 1536 pixels that provides the users with high image quality. It also features QVGA video recording at 30 fps.
LG KM555E mobile phone image overview
This fully fledged mobile phone comes with some key features and technical specifications like:
o 40 MB internal memory which can be expanded up to 16 GB.

o GSM Quad-band capable of global roaming

o Bluetooth v 2.1 with A2DP for fast and flexible data exchange with other bluetooth devices.

o Stereo FM radio with RDS for getting tuned into great tracks.

o EDGE and GPRS both of class 10.

LG KM555E is available in black color with an ultra portable body that weights only 90 grams with dimension measuring 104.9 x 52.6 x 11.9 mm making it compact to slip easily in pocket. LG KM555E is a smart and elegant phone with wide viewing angle and has good battery backup with 5.5 hours of talk time and standby time of 390 hours. This new touch screen GSM Quad-band Phone from LG is expected to hit the market by the end of this year

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Sony Vaio VGN Z58 - Amazing blend of style and technology
Posted: 2009-11-08 20:30:37 UTC+05:30
Sony Vaio VGN Z58 notebook PC - Amazing blend of style and technologySony computers have launched a new notebook in their Z series, the Sony Vaio VGN Z58. Loaded with stunning high features the notebook comes with an amazing blend of style and technology. This absolute stunner from Sony features a Carbon finished robust interiors which make the notebook quite eye catchy and striking.

The Sony Vaio VGN Z58 features advanced technology processor and Hybrid dynamic system that provides the users with high end efficiency with a superb graphic capability. The notebook is loaded with other features like:
o Intel Centrino 2 Processor technology processed by the Intel core 2 duo processor P9700 with a high processing speed of 2.80GHz for an outstanding performance.

o Windows 7 Operating System that offers a high flexibility in computing.

o 6GB RAM of type DDR2 for boosting application speed and 6MB of Cache memory for storing temp data.

o 256GB of flash memory that provides the users with rapid data transfers.

o Run high end graphic applications and enjoy high graphic 3D games with the NVIDIA GeForce 9300M GS notebook GPU with a dedicated video memory of 256MB.

o 13.3 inches wide TFT display screen with LED backlight and resolution of 1600 x 900 pixels

o Bluetooth v2.1 with EDR for speedy data exchange with other Bluetooth devices

o Built in front side camera of resolution 640 x 480 pixels and microphone for easy audio/video conferencing
Sony Vaio VGN notebook overview
The Sony Vaio VGN Z58 is available in stylish black colored body with sleek weight of 1.41 kgs. The notebook is priced at Rs.149,900 INR
Sony computers have recently launched another innovative laptop in their Zero sized X series of laptops, the Sony VCP-X113KG. Loaded with innovative features and high unique craftsmanship design, this amazing ultraportable laptop from Sony provides the users with highly interactive user interface and smoother environment for mobile computing.

The Sony VCPX113KG features a 28.2 cm (11.1 inch) Wide XGA(WXGA) display screen with a resolution of 1366 x 768 pixels and offers users with high brightness with the LED backlight feature. The Sony VCPX113KG comes with other key specifications and high technical features like

* Intel atom Processor Z540 with processing speed of 1.86GHz and latest HT technology which offers the users with enhanced processing capabilities.

* Genuine Windows7 32 bit Home premium Operating system for providing the users with flexible computing environment.

* Intel Graphic Media Accelerator 500 that offers HD video decode along with high 3D graphic capabilities. It also provides a support for the dynamic Windows user interface for enhancing the overall graphic quality.

* 64 GB of flash memory which boosts the data transfer speed and enhances the performance

* 2 GB SDRAM of type DDR2

* Built in speaker, microphone and front side camera for easy audio video conferencing

* Standard Bluetooth v2.1 for swift data exchange with other Bluetooth devices and easy connection to Bluetooth stereo headsets

Sony VCPX113KG ultraportable zero sized laptop side veiw
The Sony VCP-X113KG comes with an amazing sleek ultraportable black color design that weights only 655 grams and having dimensions 278 x 13.9 x 185 mm. This absolute stunner notebook from Sony is priced at Rs.64,990 INR
Sony has recently introduced the Sony Ericsson Jalou, an amazing cell phone with high computing capabilities and stylish innovative design. The phone is also alternatively known as Sony Ericsson Bijou. The phone features flexible and interactive features which makes it quite a user friendly phone.

The Sony Ericsson Jalou has a stunning TFT display screen of 2.0 inches having resolution of 240 x 320 pixels and 256k colors for high quality display. The phone also features a 1.3 inches external secondary display screen of type monochrome with a resolution of 128 x 36 pixels. The phone comes with an inbuilt accelerometer sensor for auto rotate that automatically adjusts the display mode according to the position of the cell phone.

sony ericsson jalou blueThe Sony Ericsson Jalou is loaded with other wonderful tech specifications and key features like:Sony Ericsson Jalou phone flap open

* 100MB inbuilt memory which can be expanded via a microSD TransFlash card slot

* GPRS of type class 10 with speed of 32-48 kbps and EDGE of type class 10 with speed of 236.8 kbps and 3G with HSDPA

* 3.15 mega pixel camera with features like geo-tagging and video calling. The captured image features a high resolution of 2048 x 1536 pixels. QVGA video recording at 15 frames per second is also available

* Gateway of nonstop entertainment with built in stereo FM radio and MP3/MP4 music player

* Downloadable and pre-installed games



The Sony Ericsson Jalou features a high battery life with stand by time of 350 hours and talk time of 7 hours. This amazing flap phone from Sony Ericsson is priced at around 170 Euros.
The Sony Ericsson Jalou has a stunning TFT display screen of 2.0 inches having resolution of 240 x 320 pixels and 256k colors for high quality display. The phone also features a 1.3 inches external secondary display screen of type monochrome with a resolution of 128 x 36 pixels. The phone comes with an inbuilt accelerometer sensor for auto rotate that automatically adjusts the display mode according to the position of the cell phone.

sony ericsson jalou blueThe Sony Ericsson Jalou is loaded with other wonderful tech specifications and key features like:Sony Ericsson Jalou phone flap open

* 100MB inbuilt memory which can be expanded via a microSD TransFlash card slot

* GPRS of type class 10 with speed of 32-48 kbps and EDGE of type class 10 with speed of 236.8 kbps and 3G with HSDPA

* 3.15 mega pixel camera with features like geo-tagging and video calling. The captured image features a high resolution of 2048 x 1536 pixels. QVGA video recording at 15 frames per second is also available

* Gateway of nonstop entertainment with built in stereo FM radio and MP3/MP4 music player
Samsung I5700 Galaxy Spica blackSamsung electronics have recently announced a new high featured touch screen cell phone, Samsung I5700 Galaxy Spica.

Loaded with latest generation technology and stylish design the Samsung I5700 Galaxy Spica is a complete package of entertainment and high technology for its users.


This amazing phone features a AMOLED 3.2 inches touch screen with an effective resolution of 320 x 400 pixels and stunning high clarity with support for 16M colors. With the advanced auto rotate sensor the phone readjusts its display mode according to the hand held position of the phone.

With the amazing 3.2 mega pixel camera in Samsung I5700 Galaxy Spica, users can click high resolution photos (2048 x 1536 pixels) with high clarity. The auto-focus feature in the camera enhances the overall imaging quality.

Samsung I5700 Galaxy Spica black overview
The Samsung I5700 Galaxy Spica is bundled with other tech specifications and key features like:

* Android v1.5 Operating system for an outraged performance and smoother computing background backed with a CPU processing speed of 800MHz

* 128 GB of internal memory which can be expanded up to 32GB via a microSD card

* GPRS and EDGE connectivity both of type Class 12

* Bluetooth v2.0 and microUSB v2.0 for sharing data at high speeds

* Built in media player and preloaded games for non-stop entertainment

Samsung I5700 Galaxy spica colors white and black
The Samsung I5700 Galaxy Spica is available in stylish White or Black colored sleek portable body. The phone is expected to hit the markets by November 09 and it’s expected to be priced around 330 Euros.

Sony Vaio SR56 - A stylish and hi-tech laptop from SonySony has recently launched a new laptop in their best selling SR series of laptops, the Sony Vaio SR56. This amazing laptop retains the family name as it’s loaded with high tech user interactive functionalities and wonderful features. The laptop is a pure blend of technology and performance with high valued additional features and Windows 7 Operating System.

Unveil performance, connectivity, compactness and security with the advanced technology provided by Intel core2 Duo processor in the Sony Vaio SR56. This unmatched performer from Sony computers is loaded with other features and technical specifications like:

* Genuine Windows 7 professional 64 bit operating system.

* Intel core2 duo processor P8700 with high processing of 2.53GHz.

* 3MB Cache, 4GB SDRAM of type DDR2 for boosting the application performance.

* 320GB Hard Disk with the speed of 7200 rpm.

* ATI Mobility Radeon HD 4570 Graphic card with dedicated Video memory of 512 MB.

* 13.3 inches wide TFT color display screen with LED back-light and resolution of 1280 x 800 pixels.

* Built in finger print senor for providing an additional security to the computer from unauthorized access of personal data.

* In built microphone, speaker and frontal camera for easy audio video conferencing.

Sony Vaio SR56 stylish back sleek body
The Sony Vaio SR56 is available in stylish back sleek body and weighs just 1.99 kgs which makes the laptop very portable to carry. This astounding high featured laptop from Sony is priced reasonably at 74,990INR (1600USD) approx.
The Sony Vaio VCPX117LG features a 128GB SSD flash memory which provides an out-ranging extra performance at high speeds and it is also resistant to shocks. This absolute stunner from Sony comes with other wonderful tech. specifications like

* Intel Atom Processor Z550 with processing speed of 2GHz with support for latest HT technology which enhances the overall processing capabilities of the processor

* Windows 7 professional 32 bit Operating System for flexible user friendly computing environment

* 11.1 inches wide display screen with a resolution of 1366 x 768 pixels and LED backlight for extra brightness

* 2GB of SDRAM of type DDR2

* Integrated wireless LAN IEEE 802.11 b/g for faster and secure wireless internet connectivity

* Built in microphone and front side camera with resolution of 640x480 pixels for easy audio video conferencing

* Intel Graphic Media Accelerator 500 for running high end graphic applications


The Sony Vaio VCPX117LG features a sleek light weight black colored body which weighs only 760 grams. This amazing ultra featured portable laptop from Sony is priced at Rs.84,990 INRThe Sony Vaio VCPX117LG features a 128GB SSD flash memory which provides an out-ranging extra performance at high speeds and it is also resistant to shocks. This absolute stunner from Sony comes with other wonderful tech. specifications like

* Intel Atom Processor Z550 with processing speed of 2GHz with support for latest HT technology which enhances the overall processing capabilities of the processor

* Windows 7 professional 32 bit Operating System for flexible user friendly computing environment

* 11.1 inches wide display screen with a resolution of 1366 x 768 pixels and LED backlight for extra brightness

* 2GB of SDRAM of type DDR2

* Integrated wireless LAN IEEE 802.11 b/g for faster and secure wireless internet connectivity

* Built in microphone and front side camera with resolution of 640x480 pixels for easy audio video conferencing

* Intel Graphic Media Accelerator 500 for running high end graphic applications


The Sony Vaio VCPX117LG features a sleek light weight black colored body which weighs only 760 grams. This amazing ultra featured portable laptop from Sony is priced at Rs.84,990 INR

The new updated version of Google Maps Navigation beta is available free for download and it is pre-installed on all the Android 2.0 devices. This amazing high end software application from Google works as good as a GPS navigation device. The application features several high end options like 3D views, Turn-by-Turn voice guidance and Automatic Rerouting etc.

Find out why one should opt for the new Google Maps Navigation beta

1. Your phone is updated automatically for the most recent version of maps and locations from Google listing which is improving continuously. This feature keeps you updated with the current location names and provides you with better navigation option.

2. Search a location, place or landmark just by simple entering its name in the Google Search box provided in the application and you will get detailed navigation description of the desired location.

3. With the new redefined voice search feature you can search the destination simply by saying the name of the location and you will get the desired results based on the search

3D street view @ Google Maps Mobile beta
Besides the above mentioned features the new beta version of Google navigation maps provides with Satellite view, Street view and 3D view that provides you with an upgraded road assistance and easy navigation solution.

The Google Maps Mobile beta application is available free in United States and is pre-installed in the upcoming Motorola Droid.

Apple operates more than two hundred retail stores in eight different countries and also an online store from where software and hardware products are sold. You can download Apple's software and applications from the online store and start using them right away.


With the passage of time advances are being made in the fields of science, engineering and computers in order to keep up with the pace of the developing world we have to keep ourselves updated regarding the latest technology. Being updated with the latest technology helps you get an edge over other people for getting jobs and if already employed you will get better opportunities for sure. For better job status you have to continuously strive hard and keep on updating your technological knowledge. There was a time when computer was the latest technology but now information technology, an entirely new field that is completely different exists. The field of Information technology is being developed on a day-to-day basis.



In today's advancing world computers play an essential role. They have become a major part of our every day life. Different types of computers are now used in different places such as airports, banks, hospitals, schools, post offices and even at the neighborhood grocery store. Gone are those days when only using a computer was considered a big deal .In order to be a part of the competitive and the crowded world of today you don't only need to know computer basics but you are required to handle them like a pro. So if in case you want to show your commitment and expertise you can
get a number of certifications of the latest software available in the markets which will help you get an edge over others for getting jobs and if already employed getting promotions. At the present time there are a number of office application suits, software suits and operating systems available for personal or business use.

Apple Inc. is one of the most popular and successful hardware and software developers of the present time. It was formerly known as Apple Computer Inc. it is and American Multinational Corporation with a focus on designing and developing consumer electronic and software products. Some of the best selling products of Apple are Macintosh line of personal computers, iPod line of portable media players and iPhone. Apple's software products include iTunes media browser, Mac OS X operating system, Final Cut Studio, the iLife suite of multimedia and creativity software. Apple's app for iPhones are also very popular and successful. You can find apple's applications in almost every category from games to business, finance to health, fashion to fitness, education to entertainment, productivity to social networking. These Apple applications have been designed to get advantage of iPhone features such as, the accelerometer, Multi Touch, GPS and wireless.

Apple operates more than two hundred retail stores in eight different countries and also an online store from where software and hardware products are sold. You can download Apple's software and applications from the online store and start using them right away. Apple's app store on iPhone works over cellular networks and Wi-Fi that means it's accessible from just about anywhere. You just have to browse categories, do a little keyword search or take a look at recommendations, and then download and install Apple's applications directly onto your iPhone. For more information on Apple and Apple applications you can log on to the internet. You can find a number of websites about Apple application. You can also logon to the official website of Apple for further information.

Students are engaged in technology on a daily basis. Why not incorporate this within the classroom setting as well? The video depicts teachers who embrace the latest technology. Some think teachers have to be “entertainers, to cut through the media and capture their attention.” Other teachers argue that technology has transformed students who cannot focus but rather have five windows open, looking for immediate answers and responses. Rosa Porpora, an English Teacher at Chatham, recognizes the times when her students know more about the technology than she does and she allows “them to take over.” She also agrees that today’s students have lost more focus than students in the classroom thirty years ago.

Your assignment: Please write three to four paragraphs arguing your stance while addressing the following: 1. The use of Spark Notes and other shortcuts students are taking instead of completing the full assignment. 2. Though they state the procedures, some teachers have accepted that students will “cheat” and want immediate answers because “that’s how the outside world works.” 3. What do you think of the effects of social networks in the school environment?

In “The Prose of Blogging (and a Few Cons, Too),” Rama Ramaswami discusses the added value of educational blogging. Prior to reading the article and learning the various types of blogs instructors create for their students I would have listed more cons. Agreeing with Ramaswami’s thinking, “Can this often belligerent wasteland of poor punctuation and indiscernible structure actually help develop better student writers?” recalling papers I’ve read with the usage of “r” for “are” and “2” for “to” etc (p. 21). Once I became more familiar with blogging and listened to examples of blogs my professors have established with their students and other examples on the World Wide Web, my view has changed. I see the benefit of blogging and will definitely be implementing it in my classroom.

In the article, Ramaswami introduces Barry Bachenheimer, a director of instructional services for public schools. He created a blog “A Plethora of Technology,” which illustrates how blogging can improve students’ “writing skills by making them write more frequently and comment on one another’s work.” The blogs were utilized as a journal for students to type out ideas and arguments. While reading the article I found myself agreeing with Bachenheimer. As long as the writing stipulations and instructions are clear and concise (proper vocabulary and spelling), students will benefit from this practice. Bachenhimer states, “There was interaction among the students and there was writing all day long, before school, during school, and after school. That was a bonus.” (p. 21)

This study has introduced and depicted that students who take the time and blog, typing out their ideas, feel more content with writing in general. From the twenty-five students in the English class, the article states, “seventy-four percent believed that blog posts helped them articulate their ideas better, and sixty-eight percent said blogs helped them determine what to say” (p. 22). I see the implementation of technology in this blogging form assist students in their learning. The teachers are simply introducing another scaffold to learning while incorporating technology. This should in fact help those digital natives. Now, we need to inform other educators of the benefits. With this particular case, blogging seems as simple as typing our mind maps, outlines, rough drafts etc. All of these pre-writing stages work with pencil and paper, why not incorporate technology and post for others to read and give feedback?

Students tend to take pride in their work if it is posted, for others to view and read. In the Florida example, eighteen students wrote a five-paragraph essay while maintaining a blog. A number of positive responses came from this project. Prior to blogging, “thirty-nine percent of the third-graders said they liked writing at school; after the project, that number rose to sixty-seven percent.” Researchers also found that “general attitudes toward writing improved, the quality of writing samples increased” and “students remained motivated throughout the nine-week blogging project, primarily due to the excitement generated by each new comment from a college partner” (p. 24).

The more practice and time I spend blogging and creating posts the easier it gets. I’m sure the same will be true for my students. I will definitely incorporate blogs in my lessons. Hopefully it will have the same affects and motivate my students as it did in Florida. After all, motivation is the key to success. Now I just have to reassure parents their children will be safe.

I ABSOLUTELY LOVE traveling. Next on the list is Rome, first I have to find time to plan the trip! I enjoy reading on my couch with a blanket, sitting in front of the fireplace works too. I’ve been coaching competitive cheerleading for nine years. I’ve coached all ages, from Mommy & Me classes with toddlers to college students at Ventura College and UCLA. I also work for a Cheer company: United Spirit Association (USA) which hosts summer camps, competitions and tours (I recently went to Pro Bowl in February). That was my first job, nine years later I’m still hooked. I enjoy dancing, but don’t attend classes as often as I’d like. I used to be a fitness nut. I’m just finding time, in my so-called “free time,” to make frequent visits to the gym.

THE TECHNOLOGY BEHIND LIGHTSCRIBE The laser inside a CD/DVD disc drive with LightScribe technology focuses light energy onto a thin dye coating on the label side of the disc. Only LightScribe media has this special coating. The light from the laser causes a chemical change in the dye coating that shows up on the disc. With laser precision, the drive renders the text and images that you created for the label. There are three different layout modes for burning labels: Full mode. Although it takes longer, this is the mode to use for a full-disc image. Content mode. Perfect for creating artful borders around the center of the disc. Title mode. Great for a small amount of text or graphics. This is the quickest mode. LightScribe labels burn in concentric circles, moving outward from the center of the disc. Images with the largest diameters will take longest to burn.

Label-making software comes with most hardware products. There are many different types of LightScribe-enabled software. The type you get will depend on your hardware. Once you've installed your software, you can create unique designs with your own photos, artwork, and text. Your software also includes backgrounds that have been created especially for LightScribe. Use the backgrounds as they are, or embellish them any way you like. In addition to label-making software, you'll also need the LightScribe System Software. Each hardware manufacturer will provide the optimal version for Linux platforms. In some cases, the LightScribe System Software is included in the labeling application. Otherwise, it needs to be installed separately. Image:infinlscdr.jpg

Media LightScribe CDs and DVDs have a special coating that interacts with the laser from your LightScribe-enabled drive. You must use LightScribe media (CDs and DVDs) in order to burn a label onto your discs. When you have obtained all the required Hardware and Software to install the rpm follow the instructions: INSTRUCTIONS Note: 1.Administrator or SuperUser account access and passwords are required for the rpm package installations. 2.The LightScribe System Software package must be installed before your LightScribe labeling applications to maintain the necessary dependencies. 1.Save any work in progress and close down all active programs, especially any labeling applications. 3.Click on above link to start the file download. 4.After reading and acknowledging the licensing agreement, choose “Save” or “Download” to start the file download process. Depending on your internet connection speed, the update file may take a few minutes to download, so please be patient. 1.The exact installation steps will be different depending on your Linux installation. Below are example procedures using the command line. Command Line a.Activate your terminal program. 5.Locate the downloaded rpm file and “cd” into the same directory. 6.You’ll need to use the “su” command to log on as the Super User using your root password. 7.Here are the related commands to use: Log on as Super User with your root password:

The National Alliance for Advanced Transportation Batteries (NATTBatt) has selected Glendale, Kentucky as its choice of locations to build a manufacturing campus. NATTBatt is a consortium of more than fifty corporations, associations, and research institutions involved in advanced lithium-ion battery cells for transportation.

The group, dedicated to making the U.S. a world leader in the manufacturing li-ion cells, selected the Kentucky site for its close access to both Interstate 65 and CSX rail. The site will be part of the business plan submitted to the U.S. Department of Energy to get part of the $2 billion in funds slated for electric vehicle battery component and manufacturing projects.

Claiming they’re “five years behind Asians” in their ability to manufacture battery cells for electric vehicles, fourteen battery companies formed an alliance in order to push for federal funding for improved research and development. Their plan is to lobby the federal government to give them handouts so they can catch up to the Asians (mainly the Chinese) in technology and manufacturing.

The new National Alliance for Advanced Transportation Battery Cell Manufacture is going to hit Congress up for up to $2 billion to improve lithium-ion battery production in the United States. Their claim is that this might jump start a new domestic auto industry.

Of course, none of them bother to mention the downers to this: the costs associated with building here versus importing, the question of whether they CAN catch up, and the big one: why is it the government’s job to give them our money. In this day of bailouts, I guess that begging to Congress is how business is done.

My views are pretty simple: if there is a need for American manufacture of battery technology, plenty of private funding will be available for it. If there isn’t, then these businesses need to find a new job. Of course, I believe in the power of the free market.

If successful, the facility would total about 1 million square feet to be used for large-scale “flexible manufacturing” facility for various types of li-ion cells. This facility would provide a resource for manufacturers of all stages of development to help them get into the market.

The DoE’s decision is expected sometime this summer and construction would begin as soon as the funds are available, so that could also begin this year. The Argonne National Laboratory is instrumental in the NAATTBAtt.

Getac Multi TouchGetac Inc., a leading innovator and manufacturer of rugged computers that meet the demands of field-based applications, announced that its line of rugged Tablet PCs will be the first rugged computers to offer a Multi-Touch screen for use with or without gloves. Having Multi-Touch technology on Getac’s V100 Tablet PC will allow users to move and edit documents, rotate maps and photos, zoom in and zoom out the maintenance manuals, and navigate numerous system applications by using a series of “gestures” with their fingers.

The new Multi-Touch technology uses a series of single touch, dual touch, “flick,” and application gestures. Users of Getac’s V100 Tablet PC will now be able to quickly and easily perform numerous on-screen tasks such as move, copy, delete, zoom, and rotate by simply touching the screen and performing the task desired with their fingers. Getac’s Resistive Multi-Touch technology is not based on capacitance sensitivity, which means users can perform these actions, and many others while wearing protective gloves. This makes it ideal for industrial and field professionals who work with dangerous chemicals or perform their job in extreme weather conditions. Even with gloves, the sensitivity and accuracy of the multi-touch screen is extremely high. The screen features 2048×2048 resolution, 100 points per second report rate, and less than 35ms response time.

Getac Multi Touch Technology

“Our customers work in some of the most extreme environments and weather conditions where touch screen technology and flick gestures are faster, safer, and more convenient than using a keypad,” says Jim Rimay, president, Getac. “As a leading innovator in advanced rugged computer technology, it is only fitting that Getac is the first to offer Multi-Touch technology that can be used with or without gloves,” added Rimay.

Getac V100

Getac’s Multi-Touch technology will also offer complete compatibility with Microsoft’s Windows 7 when it is launched later this month.

It’s not every day that the flight sim community gets a new, high-end controller product introduced to the market (heck, its been nearly a decade), but this month sim controller producer Logitech has introduced a very nice product aimed squarely at the hard-core simulation hobbyist. And they’ve done it in style, allowing a fellow flight simmer to lead the design and development of their new product.
Mark Starrett is no stranger to flight sim controllers. Formerly with Saitek, Mark now works for Logitech, and a year ago he was placed in a leadership role to design and produce a sophisticated HOTAS system. For Mark this was a labor of love — for the past 15 years his gaming passion lies in combat flight simulation titles. Armed with a long wish-list of HOTAS features, Mark eagerly led every process in the product’s development to ensure it captured his vision of what a HOTAS rig should be. Mark broke down his product’s feature list by component:

The Joystick

* Force feedback system with software being developed and optimized for upcoming flight simulations that can emulate pre-stall buffet, tire vibration, etc.
* Non-contact magnetic position sensor offers precision and longevity as the parts don’t wear out like potentiometers.
* Design based on research of real world HOTAS systems, incorporating best concepts from several systems.
* The Joystick HOTAS controls include several buttons, a hat switch and a dedicated ‘mini-stick’ that incorporates an integral button. In addition there are three programmable “trim wheel” knobs that actually report as separate control axes on the stick system.
* All other HOTAS component connectors daisy-chain into the joystick with plugs similar to those used on the G25 wheel. The joystick then connects to the PC via USB.

The Joystick

The Throttle

* Split-throttle design allows for separate engine control on twin engine aircraft (if the game software supports it, e.g. LOMAC).
* Incorporates a tension wheel on the bottom of the base, to allow players to tailor their throttle’s resistance (but not on the fly).
* Eight back-lit buttons behind the throttle hand grips are fully programmable, and can be assigned different back lighting colors individually, AND they can change color when game situations change. Also, removable button covers allow for custom-made labels to be inserted, and a PDF configured for button-label-making is also provided with the HOTAS kit.
* Throttle includes two 8-way hat switches and two programmable rotary controls.
* Three-position program mode switch on throttle grip allows for on-the-fly mode changes

The Throttle

The Throttle tensioner

The Rudder Pedals

* 4 bar rudder linkage and steel bearings give the rudder movement a solid and precise feel.
* Large, stainless steel foot plates with toe brakes give the rudder unit a look of military durability.
* Tension knob between pedals allows users to adjust resistance to their preference.
* Bottom of rudder unit has deployable rug-grabbers just like the G25 pedal base, as well as bolt grommets for hard-mounting to a simulator cockpit.

All three devices together give the virtual pilot 14 analog axes and over 250 programmable button positions (using three modes plus a shift button).

Connector

Mark fired up a desktop computer running LOMAC and IL-2 Pacific Fighters and Chunx, Joe and guod all took turns putting the A-10, SU-25 and P-38 through their paces with the G940 HOTAS. The three quickly lost track of time, and set about the task of exploring the various functions and responses of Logitech’s new product.

Overall, the entire SimHQ team appreciated the sturdy, stable feel of the joystick and throttle base units. With a wide stance and hefty-but-not-heavy feel, there was no tipping sensation at all with the joystick at full deflection, and even under heavy vibration the stick’s base unit stayed exactly where it was placed on the desk. Goud liked the placement of the hand rest on the outer edge of the joystick and felt it was positioned perfectly for comfort and control. The five rotary/trim wheels on the stick and throttle had a liquid-smooth action and crisp on-center detents that really gave the unit a feel of quality and precision. In fact, every moving part on the G940 system had a ‘just right’ feel to it, and the overall look of the unit simply screamed "quality".

We have noted some comments that express concern over the G940’s rudder pedal spacing. Chunx, Joe and guod all felt that there is absolutely no problem with the spacing between the two pedals; they are far enough apart to be comfortable. Joe did note that the pedal footplates seem wider than they are in other products, so it is possible that images of the product are misleading. Another thing Joe noted was some wiggle in the footplates in the plane of the plate (i.e. the motion you would get if you rotated your foot about the axis of your lower leg). Mark assured us that Logitech was aware of the issue, that we were dealing with beta hardware, and that everything that could be done to reasonably remedy the issue for the final product would happen.

Although Chunx thought the joystick’s resistance to motion felt a little on the light side (for HOTAS veterans, think more of a Fighterstick’s feel than a Cougar‘s), and the force feedback strength felt a little weak to Joe, Mark Starrett should be justifiably proud of his impressive new product. SimHQ eagerly plans to give the G940 a full review in the coming months, and we‘re sure there‘ll be a fight brewing to see what member of the staff gets this choice duty. The Logitech G940 Flight System will be available in September and will have an MSRP of about $300.

NVIDIA

We met with an NVIDIA representative today that showed us two interesting products, one new and one existing.

The new product is the Ion, an incredibly small motherboard. It is powered by the NVIDIA 9400 chipset (the same chipset used in the MacBook and Mac Mini) and an Intel low-power-consumption CPU. The motherboard has the following integrated features:

* HDMI
* DVI
* Displayport
* Ethernet
* USB
* eSATA
* 7.1-channel audio
* optical audio

This is a pretty standard list for onboard motherboard features these days, but the interesting point here is that NVIDIA has achieved all of these things in a motherboard that is only about 3”x5”. You can see a cardboard mockup of the board in the image below, along with a tech demo version of a computer built using the Ion. An entire computer, capable of running Windows 7 according to NVIDIA, is inside that black box.

NVIDIA Ion

Acer, a laptop company known for pushing the boundaries of portable and small-form-factor computer technology, has used the Ion platform in their new Aspire Revo computer. Looking decidedly like a Wii, the Aspire Revo has many of the Ion platform features in addition to a 7,200 RPM hard drive.

The existing product that NVIDIA showed us was their 3D technology. Up until the 8000-series GPUs, NVIDIA offered stereoscopic 3D support for many of their high-end graphics cards. This support, in the form of a stereoscopic 3D driver that installs on top of your normal video driver, allowed users to use simple anaglyph 3D (i.e. red/cyan glasses) or more advanced shutter glasses. The anaglyph solution is extremely affordable, but comes with the tradeoff of color saturation and shallow depth of field. The shutter glasses solution offered the best stereoscopic 3D there was, by rendering frames that were slightly different for the left and right eyes, and syncing the glasses to the display so that the correct eye only sees frames intended for that eye.

As LCD displays permeated the market, with their prevailing 60 Hz refresh rate, the ability to use shutter glasses disappeared. NVIDIA never even released stereo 3D drivers that supported the 8000-series GPUs. Recently, though, advances in LCD technology have given us 120 Hz displays. NVIDIA has welcomed the arrival of this technology and has developed the GeForce 3D Vision system. This are the first stereoscopic 3D shutter glasses marketed by NVIDIA directly, and the product is very nice. The glasses themselves communicate with the PC via and IR transmitter, and are powered via an integrated lithium ion battery. The battery provides about 120 hours of use before it needs charging. Charging is via USB.

We used the GeForce 3D Vision glasses with a Left for Dead demo. Sure, we were blasting zombies, but that’s not the point. The added dimension (literally) that these glasses add to gameplay is breathtaking. There are certain things that developers need to take care of inside their software (this makes things like HUD elements display at screen depth instead of showing in the game world), but for the most part any game can be used with stereoscopic 3D. It’s not a technology that can be shown in pictures or through video, however, so to see what it looks like you’ve got to try it out yourself.

Currently the GeForce 3D Vision is only supported under Vista. NVIDIA’s website states that support for other operating systems may be implemented based on user demand. We were also told by NVIDIA at E3 that new 3D drivers would be out soon, and they would support anaglyph 3D. The GeForce 3D Vision has an MSRP of $199.

Ostendo

Although the unveiling of the Alienware M17x performance laptop yesterday made a splash, there has been a constant crowd surrounding a very wide curved display nearby. A second display of this type is being used to demo DCS: Black Shark at the CH Products booth. The hardware is certainly impressive.

Ostendo

The Ostendo product is called the Curved Gaming Display, and it is a 2880x900 ultra-widescreen monitor. The display is driven by four LED-lit DLP rear projectors that achieve a 10000:1 contrast ratio. Each projector outputs a 1024x768 image rotated 90 degrees, and the projectors are aimed to overlap each other at the edges. The screen itself has a 4-foot radius of curvature and 43 diagonal viewing inches. The response time is 0.16ms (effectively zero), the refresh rate is 60 Hz, and the power draw is 200-225W. Input is via single-link DVI or HDMI.

When examining the Curved Gaming Display, light discontinuities between the projector sections are evident. However, when we met with Erhan Ercan, Senior Director of Product Marketing for Ostendo, we learned that the display is optimized for viewing at a sweet spot located between 24 and 36 inches from the center of the monitor. At this distance the display provides 90 degrees horizontal and 30 degrees vertical field of view. Sure enough, when we stepped up into the sweet spot ourselves, a great deal of the light discontinuity vanished. It was still visible, but it was much less distracting.

Below is a video of someone using the Ostendo Curved Gaming Display at the Alienware booth.

Fanatec

Although we briefly covered the Fanatec wheel for Xbox 360 yesterday, we had a detailed discussion with Thomas Jackermeier, Endor CEO, today. We learned a great deal about the 911 Turbo S force feedback wheel and its associated accessories.

Fanatec is offering three price points for their products. All are compatible with the PC, Xbox 360, and PS3. The first product is the wheel by itself. The price is $200, and Xbox 360 or Logitech G25 pedals can be connected. This offers the intriguing possibility of using G25 pedals with the Xbox 360.

The second price point is $350, and includes the 911 Turbo S wheel, the standard Fantec pedals, a sequential shifter, a gated 6+R shifter, and a wireless RF dongle with a 30-foot range. These pedals are plastic, but there are three of them.

The final price point is $500. This includes all of the above except that the standard pedals are replaced with Clubsport pedals. The Clubsport pedals are an impressive technological device. First, they have vibration on the brake pedal, which means that locking up a wheel will results in brake pedal motion that can be felt. Thomas explained that, in rFactor, the brake pedal vibration is calculated by examining vehicle telemetry and comparing the car’s ground speed to each wheel’s rotational speed. Second, the clutch and throttle pedals use indestructible non-contact magnetic sensors for position reporting, which mean there are no pots that can wear out and/or spike.

Third, the brake pedal contains a load cell, which is a device that measures applied force. This means that braking force in your racing title is conveyed through true brake pressure (not brake travel), as it is in a real car. The force at which the brakes report maximum application is user-selectable, allowing a stiff pedal or a soft pedal. A block of specialty foam gives the pedal a realistic small amount of travel. Clubsport pedals are the first commercially available product to offer a load cell brake pedal. Finally, the pedal plates are adjustable in many ways. Thomas said that, for example, the pedals could be moved closer to or farther apart from one another, or the brake could be moved closer to the driver to facilitate heel & toe technique.

Fanatec

Since the 911 Turbo S wheel works with multiple platforms, it contains a nice feature wherein appropriate lights illuminate on the buttons so that their labels are indicated. When the wheel is connected to an Xbox 360, “A”, “B”, “X”, “Y”, etc. backlights illuminate. When the wheel is connected to a PS3, circle, square, triangle, etc. backlights illuminate. When used on PC, all backlights are off.

In total the wheel has ten buttons, a D-pad, and two paddle shifters, totaling 16 programmable positions. The force feedback is via belt drive and uses belts made in the UK and sourced for life support equipment; according to Fanatec they will not stretch. The wheel contains a built-in LCD; this can be used to adjust wheel response on-the-fly, and in titles where there are no software adjustments, this is the only way to adjust game response.

Joe was given the opportunity to drive Forza 3 using the Xbox 360 wheel and the Fanatec wheel with Clubsport pedals back-to-back. The difference is absolutely night and day. The Fanatec product has no detectable deadzone, extremely resistive steering motion (this can be adjusted per user preference), and an extremely smooth response. Driving the exact same track and car with the two different wheels was more different than driving different tracks and cars with the same wheel. SimHQ hopes to receive a Fanatec 911 Turbo S wheel and Clubsport pedals for a full review.

Joe at the wheel

Xlerator

We found a new, easy to use wheel and pedal stand called the Xlerator Wheel Stand. It tilts forward to the ground for storage, and you simply pull it up to you while sitting on the couch to use it. It has two medal handle bar type ends that rest on the couch or chair on which you’re sitting, making it easy to use your racing wheel in a living room environment. It wasn’t as secure or steady as other stands, but it is functional.

FragFX

We met with Jason Johnson, the head of creative development for Split Fish Gameware. He showed us a great new mouse/controller device called FragFX for the PS3. Magnum got some time on it playing Call of Duty: Modern Warfare and the device was fantastic, truly incredible, and very functional. He had some of the best kill scores in the game, and he believes it was because of the mouse/controller device used on this console. They’re working with Microsoft to try to bring the FragFX to the Xbox 360, but that’s proving to be a little difficult due to Microsoft, as usual. But if you play shooters on the PS3, we highly recommend that you check out this device.

FragFX

D-box

We discussed D-box motion platforms yesterday, but we didn’t have any video with flight titles. Below is a video showing someone flying Tom Clany’s HAWX on PC, using an Xbox 360 controller. Unfortunately that’s the best flight title that D-box is showing on their platform. D-box does recommend a 3-actuator platform for best results with a flight sim, because the added motion will enhance the feeling of flight better.

Gibson Computer Services is able to compete very effectively against much larger brands such as Dell® and HP®, with prices quite close to those you will see advertised.

Due to the rapid advancement of computer technology, it makes more sense to avoid having a large inventory of computers and parts, as they become obsolete so quickly. In fact, most large manufacturers pass on the cost of obsolescence with every machine they sell!

Constructing a computer to fit the needs of the customer is much less expensive, and frees you from the hassle of the gigantic software bundles most manufacturers include on behalf of their marketing partnersGibson Computer Services is able to compete very effectively against much larger brands such as Dell® and HP®, with prices quite close to those you will see advertised.

Due to the rapid advancement of computer technology, it makes more sense to avoid having a large inventory of computers and parts, as they become obsolete so quickly. In fact, most large manufacturers pass on the cost of obsolescence with every machine they sell!

Constructing a computer to fit the needs of the customer is much less expensive, and frees you from the hassle of the gigantic software bundles most manufacturers include on behalf of their marketing partners

Today's modern world has extended the family of experts needed to keep a competitive business running to include a technology expert. As much as an accountant, electrician or plumber is needed to maintain the books, the electrical grid and the water system, an expert is now required to oversee all advanced technological operations of even the smallest business.
Computer technology has become so affordable that small business can take full advantage of technology previously available only to the largest corporations. Computer systems can coordinate sales, inventory and accounting into one easy to use, fully integrated business system. Computer automation can free up valuable time for the small business owner to focus more on the big picture.

Based on a life long love of computers and technology and backed by a bachelor’s degree in computer science, Carmen Branje’s extensive technical knowledge will provide the best technological solution possible. Whether it be custom business accounting software, e-commerce, network design or multimedia, it can all be provided to you in a cheap and efficient manner, getting the results that are needed to run a successful business in any competitive marketplace.

In this site you will find many things, including a resume and cover letter

Try as it might, Microsoft has never been able to put a dent in Apple's marketshare for portable media players. The previous Zune players were pretty good, and the Zune desktop software finally got there after a few revisions, but neither one had the "wow factor" necessary to pull the masses away from the iPod juggernaut. With the Zune HD (and accompanying Zune 4.0 software), Microsoft has finally delivered the kind of truly exciting device that should make even the most ardent iPod fan take notice. It's sleek, small, thin, and surprisingly light with the rare quality of looking as good as Apple's products without looking just like Apple's products.

When talk turns to digital media players, Apple’s iPod and Microsoft’s second-generation Zune (with its third-gen firmware) dominate the conversation. But if you’re a Rhapsody-to-Go subscriber ($15 per month), there’s only one media player you should consider: Haier’s Rhapsody Ibiza.

Here’s Slacker in a nutshell (for those who don’t want to re-read our previous review): The service component of Slacker is much like Pandora or Last.FM in that you can listen to music on the Internet for free (along with an occasional advertisement) while the Slacker A.I. analyzes your expressed tastes in music, and recommends new artists it thinks you’ll enjoy.

But there are trade-offs: You can't always choose which songs you want to hear, and you can skip only a limited number of tracks. Slacker also offers a subscription plan ($7.50 per month if you pay for a year at a time) that eliminates the ads, enables you to call up saved tracks at will (as long as you maintain your subscription), and allows you to skip an unlimited number of tracks.

As for the new Slacker hardware, it has all the same tools as the browser-based product, but gives you the freedom to listen to music anywhere. You can transfer music from your PC to the mobile device, or you can connect the G2 to your wireless network, and it will automatically download a batch of tunes from the Slacker website.

The G2 player also comes with the Devicescape application built in. This app enables the G2 to log on to commercial Wi-Fi hot spots -- provided you have an account with the service provider, of course.

The Slacker G2 is about half the size of its predecessor, but the base model comes with twice as much memory (4GB of flash, which is enough to store 25 of the custom radio stations you create with the service; an 8GB model capable of storing 40 stations will sell for $250). More importantly, the G2 doesn’t sacrifice any of the delicious features that made the original portable so cool.

The first-generation device was slightly larger than a cell phone, which meant it just barely fit in a shirt pocket. And while it had a gi-normous display (consuming nearly its entire face), accommodating that huge LCD forced the designers to move all the control buttons to the sides of the player, which rendered it awkward to use with one hand.

The G2’s screen is considerably smaller (2.4 inches compared to the original’s 4.0-inch screen), but it shares the player’s faceplate with all the most important buttons for controlling the device. The “favorite” and “ban” buttons—which allow you to indicate your preference or disdain, respectively, for a particular song—sit above the screen. The skip forward/skip back buttons that enable you to move up and down the tracks stored in your library are at the bottom, along with a play/pause button. The volume control is on top of the device, next to the headphone jack.

The new device retains the ability to display large album-art images and detailed artist bios. And Slacker continues to employ professional deejays to program its radio channels. As with the original device, you can use some of its storage capacity to save your own music in MP3 or WMA format.

In addition to a ubiquitous mini USB port, the G2 has a CEA 2017 docking port on its bottom, although Slacker doesn’t currently have any products capable of mating with it. The Consumer Electronics Association—the group that puts on the annual CES trade show—defined the CEA 2017 standard in the theory that it would foster a market for third-party peripherals (e.g., speaker docks), but the interface been around for more than a year

Volkswagen is redefining the automobile with the L1, a bullet-shaped diesel hybrid that weighs less than 900 pounds, gets an amazing 170 mpg and might see production within four years.

The L1 concept car unveiled at the Frankfurt auto show pushes the boundaries of vehicle design and draws more inspiration from gliders than conventional automobiles. The only question the company’s engineers asked when designing the L1 was, “How would a car have to look and be built to consume as little energy as possible.” Their answer was small, light and extremely aerodynamic. Those guidelines led to a car that requires just 1.38 liters of diesel fuel to go 100 kilometers.

Although the L1 is just a concept, VW says the tandem two-seater points the way toward a future model.

“Volkswagen is making a clear statement,” the company said in a statement. “The L1 represents a step forward into the future with completely new technology and new design; revolutionary yet close to production readiness.”

volkswagen_l1_05 The L1 updates an idea Volkswagen has been kicking around since 2002, when Dr. Ferdinand Piëtch, then the chairman of the board, drove the 1-Liter microcar from Wolfsburg to Hamburg. The car drew its name from the fact it needed one liter of fuel to go 100 kilometers. The 1-Liter was a technological marvel built of carbon fiber and magnesium, but it was so ridiculously expensive VW knew it wasn’t practical. Piëtch shelved the project, figuring it wouldn’t be financially viable for another decade.

VW now thinks the car’s time has come.

The L-1 is more refined than the 1-Liter we saw last year when Britain’s Car magazine said VW had greenlighted the project. The drivetrain features a two-cylinder turbodiesel displacing just 800 cubic centimeters. It runs in two modes: “Eco,” offering 20 kilowatts (26 horsepower); and “Sport,” with 29 kilowatts (39 horsepower). Maximum torque is 74 pound-feet. The engine is mated to a 10 kilowatt electric motor, which VW integrated into a seven-speed DSG automatic gearbox.

Electric motors provide great torque, and VW says the motor in the L1 kicks in under hard acceleration to provide up to 40 percent more grunt. It also can propel the car on its own, though VW doesn’t say how far the L1 will go on electricity alone. VW also didn’t offer any specs on the lithium-ion battery, which gets a boost from regenerative braking.

Start-stop technology helps improve fuel economy. The fuel tank holds just 1.7 gallons, and VW says says the car gets 1.38 l/100 km. That works out to 170.4 mpg by our math. VW claims the L1 emits just 36 grams per kilometer of carbon dioxide. For the sake of comparison, the 2010 Toyota Prius emits 89 g/km.

The L1 looks unlike anything else on the road, which is exactly what VW had in mind.

“The design of the L1 redefines classic and aesthetic vehicle traits,” Walter de’Silva, head of design for the VW Group, said in a statement. “Especially significant, of course, is how the nearly rocket-shaped lines catch one’s attention. All of its moving parts are integrated so accurately that the body resembles a rocket or jet. It is a body that cuts through the wind with minimal aerodynamic resistance.”

Indeed. The L1 has a claimed drag coefficient of just 0.195. That matches the General Motors EV1, which is the most aerodynamic production car ever built, but is slightly less aerodynamic than the first-gen 1-Liter.

A carbon-fiber monocoque and carbon fiber exterior skin, both developed with technology derived from Formula 1 and aerospace manufacturing, account for the L1’s super flyweight 380 kilograms (837 pounds). The body alone weighs just 124 kilograms (273 pounds). The car is 12.5 feet long and 3.75 feet tall, making it about as low as a Lamborghini Murcielago. There are no doors, only a jet-like canopy that swings up from the left side. There’s room for two, one behind the other, and everyone sits in carbon fiber seats. Instruments are laid out in a 180-degree radius in front of the driver, and there are no mirrors, only cameras that display images on organic light-emitting diode displays.

VW says the L1 is perfectly safe, with the driver and passenger safely ensconced in a carbon fiber safety cell and protected by head and side-curtain airbags. The front of the car features an aluminum crash structure.

The word out of Frankfurthttp://www.wired.com/autopia, according to The New York Times, is VW will build a limited number of these next year. Officially, VW says we’ll have to wait a little longer.

“2013 is the target year for this future dream car to become a reality,” the company said in a statement.

One common thread of thinking among Christians is that science is discovering what God has already done. And I think each day, God is so great that He lets us take a closer look at His creations, revealing to us a mere hint of His majesty. Some people in favor of legalization of abortion try to whitewash it by claiming that the baby is only a blob of tissue . But once again, God uses science to give us a chance to take a second look and really see that this little one is not just a blob of tissue or a lump of cells.
'I don’t know whether I am looking at science or I am looking at art', commented an external examiner reviewing the student's

There's a new way to help detect dementia in senior citizens.

It's a bracelet similar to those used to track people with Alzheimer's. But this device is used to monitor abnormal movements and wandering.

Researchers at the University of South Florida developed the technology and say it can be used to predict the early stages of dementia.

If caught early, dementia can be treated with medication.
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The system is being tested at a retirement home in Florida, and could be on the market within five years.