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Panasonic HDC-SD100 and HDC-HS100 Review: Smart Camera Era

2008-09-30T22:55:00.000-07:00

Panasonic launches the newest models of camcorder and digital camera with more sensitive to light and color technology. This technology is claimed better compared to previous series.

The newest video camera of Panasonic claimed has this high sensitivity level is HDC-SD100 and HDC-HS100. According to Panasonic, both high definition camera is the first AVCHD video camera in the world that carrying 3MOS system.

This 3MOS technology is developed by Panasonic recently. This system still base on 3CCD technology, so that ready to take picture excellently. This MOS sensor system significantly produces a great quality picture, even in less light or dark location.

Compared to 1MOS system that existing before, 3MOS system is more sensitively in catch picture. Camera will produce original colors from object, better detail, and richer of color gradation. Technology with this high precision picture element claimed as first in the world.

When introducing this product for the first time by the end of June, Zoe Susice, Manager Group Imaging Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company, said that camcorder market nowadays goes to high definition model with picture quality that is increasingly superior.

HDC-SD100 records with 8 GB capacity SDHC memory card as standard accessory. While the HDC-HS100series is not only records to SDHC card, but is also equipped by 60 GB hard drive internal memory.

Because of that, even both models has identical feature and equipment, HDC-HS100 have a costlier price, that is US$ 1299,95. As For HDC-SD100 at the price of US$ 1099,95.

Despitefully, Panasonic also launches some digital camera variants with new technology, for example DMC-FX150 and DMC-FX37. Both cameras offers easy focusing operation and smart automatic setting in arranging exposure or lens aperture, focus, ISO, speed, face detection feature, picture balance, and red-eye correction feature.

DMC-FX150 with 14.7 megapixel resolution present in black color and silver choice. Its lens wide is 28mm, 3.6X Optical Zoom, and has 2,7 inches LCD screen. While DMC-FX37 has lens wide 25mm, 5X Optical Zoom, and has 2,5 inches LCD screen.

DMC-FX37 present with more variation color choice. Silver, black, brown blue, white, and pink are avaialable. Both digital camera products are not equipped with optical viewfinder. Both still offering high definition video recorder option.

FX-150 will be sold with the price of US$ 399,95, while FX-37 is thrown to market with the price of US$ 349,95.

HDC-SD100 and HDC-HS100 Review
Specs:
- HD 1920 x 1080p
- Feature: Quick Power On, Digital Cinema Color, Intelligent Shooting Selection Playback
- 5 Microphone, 5.1 Channel Surround Sound System
- Microphone Input and Headphone Jack
- High Speed Burst Shooting
- Wide screen LCD with 300.000 pixel
- 170° Viewpoint, vertical and horizontal

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Sanyo DMX-HD800 Review: Small, Big Capability

2008-09-30T22:40:00.000-07:00

Don't judge camera by its size. This wise advice need to be followed if seeing the form of this brand new product. Even small and thin, not mean has small ability. If it looked from the ability, this camera is nicknamed as high definition camera “killer”.

This is the DMX-HD800, high definition camcorder – newest Xacti series – from Sanyo. This camera is the newest version of Xacti-HD700 series which has been launched before. DMX-HD800 came with nicer design, compact, and thin, but has big ability.

In this new product launch, Hideki Toyoda, official of Sanyo Digital Co. said that this DMX-HD800 is not only having great and stylish design. But also offers unique features, like 3D Digital Noise Reduction filter.

This feature will produce more clear and beautiful picture. 3D Digital Noise Reduction or 3DDNR has been carried by DMX-HD1010, high definition camera that launched by Sanyo before. Besides 3DDNR feature, DMX-HD800 has Face Chaser feature, for video and also photograph.

Face Chaser is equipped by active scanner which appears in monitor screen. Face Chaser can detect more than 12 faces caught by lens. Compared to former models, face caught by this camera five times more focused or accurate.

This video camera at the same time high definition photo or dual-camera its operation is easy and simple. Besides having compact and light design, video or photo data also easy to be saves at SD memory card or SDHC.

Not only compact on-hand, this camera great for video and photo data drag and drop, from or to personal computer. Want to upload the video record to Internet? It’s easy. This camera is ideal to upload picture to web site or video blog, as good as standard high definition video.

To take a picture, DMX-HD800 also has some advantage. You can take a photo any time, even at recording video condition, without changing from video mode to photograph mode. Unnecessary to stops a moment or does video record pause.

When recording, we can present photo frame in screen only with one button (Photo View). The photo resolution is also big enough, 8 megapixel. While for record the video, with format 1280 x 720 or 720p, applied AVC/H264 video codec.

The battery is also amazing. In full condition, battery ready to record video during 90 minutes or makes 250 picture.

DMX-HD800 Review
Specs:
- Effective resolution: photograph, 8 MP; video 6,82 MP (HD MODE) and 7,97MP (SD MODE)
- Record media: SD memory card, SDHC (up to 32GB)
- Lens: video f=6.3-31.77 mm; photograph f=38-190 mm; 5x optical zoom, autofocus
- Audio: microphone built-in stereo, speaker built-in monaural
- Display: TFT LCD, 2.7 inches, 230.000 pixels, 285° viewpoint
- Battery: lithium-ion, 1.200 mAh, AC-ADAPTOR
- Power consumption: 36 W for video
- Color: gold, pink, and black
- Price range: US$ 460

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Lenovo Ideapad S9 and S10: New Netbook

2008-09-30T22:22:00.000-07:00

Lenovo, computer manufacturer which bases on Morrisville, North Carolina, United States, introduces their newest product: Lenovo Ideapad S9 and S10. This Netbook will be sold under US$ 500.

This netbook designed with efficient power factor. It weight is below 3 pound only. The presence of Ideapad S10 surely invites the enthusiasm of netbook users. Though Lenovo do not suggest the users to change their netbook, Ideapad S10 offers various advantages that are possibly makes user to consider again their laptop.

Ideapad S10 came with two versions, 10 inches and 9 inches. 9 inch version will be available first. Both is using 3 cell battery power for 3 hour usage or 6 cell battery for 6 hour. Both versions have 80 and 160 Gigabyte harddisk.

Ideapad S10 is equipped by two USB ports, Ethernet, webcam, headphone jack, and 4-in-1 card reader slot.

Before, HP 2133 Mini-Note is becoming the only netbook which having ExpressCard slot for WWAN. But now the facility also can be met in Ideapad S10.

IdeaPad S9 specs

* CPU: Intel Atom N270 at 1.6GHz
* RAM: 1GB of DDR2 memory
* Screen: 8.9″ Widescreen
* Storage: 4GB SSD, or 80GB hard disk
* Networking: Ethernet, Wifi 802.11B/G, Bluetooth (optional)
* Webcam: 1.3MP
* VGA output
* OS: Linux Linpus lite or windows xp
* Memory card reader: SD/MMC/MS/MS Pro
* 2 USB ports
* Dimensions: 9.8″ x 7.2″ x 1.08″
* Expresscard/34 slot
* Weight: ~2 pounds
* Price: $399 (about 258€)

IdeaPad S10 specs

* CPU: Intel Atom N270 at 1.6GHz
* RAM: 1GB DDR2 memory
* Screen: 10.2″ Widescreen (1024×600), led backlight
* Storage: 160GB hard disk
* Networking: Ethernet, Wifi 802.11B/G, Bluetooth (optional)
* Webcam: 1.3MP
* D-SUB VGA output
* OS: Linux Linpus lite or windows xp
* Memory card reader: SD/MMC/MS/MS Pro
* 2 USB ports
* Expresscard/34 slot
* Dimensions: 9.8″ x 7.2″ x 1.08″
* Weight: ~2.2 pounds
* Price: $449 (about 290€)

Logitech diNovo Edge Mac Edition: Alternative Keyboard for Mac

2008-09-30T22:01:00.000-07:00

Get bored with your Mac white and slim keyboard? Logitech make a breakthrough with this first special Macintosh computer keyboard: Logitech diNovo Edge Mac Edition.

This keyboard works wirelessly through Bluetooth. It has one button to direct access Mail, Safari, and iTunes. Besides, there are also locks for command, option, and control.
Logitech also provides innovative touch pad so called TouchDisc. User can scroll up and down the screen without need to touch mouse. This keyboard electric power also can stay during one month.

The design looks nice with black glossy piano color. But, the prices (US$ 160) likely still be overvalued for a wireless keyboard if compares to Logitech mini Mac keyboard, Cordless Media Board Pro, which its price is only US$79.

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ROKR E8 Review: Asian Life Style Rhythm

2008-08-06T22:39:00.000-07:00

ROKR E8 is a must have gadget for music lover. The gadget is not only having sophisticated function, ROKR E8 gives new experience in listening music which you have awaited:

- ModeShif technology transforms the gadget from phone function to music player with one button touch
- Innovative Haptics technology which gives tactile response when virtual button is pressed
- FastScroll navigation button enables seeking thousands of song with shifting thumb
- CrystalTalk™ technology which has been patented gives great clearness of call in noisy area.
- Compatibilities with Windows™ Media Player™ 11 enabling transfer of song from PC to ROKR E8

Motorola design the ROKR E8 to ease you to play around music or talks and makes a move out of one feature to the other. Applies ModeShift technology from Motorola, the gadget with quad-band GPRS/EDGE technology only presents button that required by user at the time of they need it with one button touch to change the function from music player to phone function.

In inactive condition, surface of ROKR E8 seen smooth without there are button which seen. When activate, there will emerge virtual key pad number at front face. With one "touch" at virtual music button, phone key pad will lose and replaced with music player button (play, pause, fast forward and rewind).

However, ROKR E8 is more than gadget that operated through "touch". Applies haptics technology, this gadget gives tactile feedback that expected by consumer from traditional keypad and ensures that them has pressed virtual button.

ROKR E8 also starts the debut of new FastScroll navigation button from Motorola, a touch control with varies speed which facilitating user to see all content in phone. With thumb soft touch, button swiftly explores your music content (music mode), contact number (phone mode), calendar (phone mode), or multimedia (imaging mode). Information can be seen easily in QVGA 20" landscape display

In music mode condition, ROKR E8 gives a real nice sound through 3D stereo feature to increase quality of two-canal audio and on-board equalizer. Music can be enjoyed through integrated speaker, with compatible Bluetooth technology stereo headset or through cable headset via 3.5mm jack.

ROKR E8 also help consumer to get new music through integrated FM radio and supports Song ID2 feature. Song ID2 is a great feature that recognizing and presents information of song. User only need to draw near the phone to source of song and phone will analyses and presents the title, artist and even album cover with one button clicks. 2GB internal memory can keep until 1.500 mp3 songs, and external memory can be added until 4 GB by using microSD card. Music can be transferred swiftly through USB 2.0 as well as compatible with Windows Media Player 11.

In phone mode condition, ROKR E8 gives a real good sound quality with the existence of CrystalTalk technology. This phone still can receive a call in downloading condition or music on, messaging, internet browsing and takes picture. Composition and quality material makes ROKR E8 provable and durable. Gleaming frontage, backside from soft aluminum, side button from metal and engraved offering modern style from Motorola.

ROKR E8 Review
Specs:
Dimension: 115 x 53 x 10,6 mm
Network: Quad-band
Transfer of data: GPRS/EDGE
Weight: 100 grams
Display: 2 inches, QVGA, 262K TFT, 240 x 320 pixels
Memory: 2 GB (internal) and 4GB (addition memory)
Feature: ModeShift, Fast Scroll Navigation, Microsoft Music Ecosystem, 3.5 mm Stereo Headset Jack, Wireless Stereo Bluetooth (A2DP), 2 MP Camera, Airplane Mode, Text to Speech Messages, Crystal Talk
Audio format: MIDI, MP3, AAC, AAC+, Enhanced AAC+, WMA, WAV, AMR-NB, Real Audio (RA) v10
Connectivity: Bluetooth, USB
Battery: 970 mAh

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Wibrain B1E Review: Flexible Navigation

2008-08-06T22:32:00.000-07:00

The computer is being small and smaller. After notebook, than comes the netbook (new name of small notebook/laptop) like Asus Eee PC or Classmate PC. Latter also emerges mini model in tablet form or module with shift keyboard which taking idea from PDA. So, this Wibrain UMPC is unique enough because its form more looks like portable console like GameBoy or PSP.

Wibrain B1E basically like the other UMPC which packaged computer in handy form so can be inserted into pants pocket. Wibrain cut the keyboard area becomes 2 parts. Remind us at Nokia N-gage phone. That layout makes user must get used to typing with 2 thumbs. To economize dimension, Wibrain perforce to locate small character button, so do the touchpad area in right side felt less balmy. Fortunately access to gadget still made easy with touch screen which sensitive when receives finger or stylus touch provided.

To execute various applications, Wibrain B1E is powered by VIA 1,2GHz processor (ULV - ultra low voltage). But during usage, this processor spreads the temperature that is felt enough on-hand. Fortunately, UMPC will turn of automatically when temperature exit canal experiences resistance so that make device safe from over temperature. Besides processor, tiny UMPC cooling system likely must always corrected by manufacturer so that more maximum.

With mini 1,8" harddisk with 30GB capacities plus DDR2 512MB RAM (available 1GB version), Wibrain clearly equivalent with Asus Eee or other Classmate PC. But Wibrain internal connectivity is not as complete both peripherals because only provides audio and a USB port connection. This happen of course because space boundary at gadget which only have ½ kg weight. To support more connectivity, Wibrain also provides additional docking which must be bought separately.

Wibrain B1E
Specification
Processor: VIA C7-M ULV 1200MHz
RAM: SO-DIMM DDR2 512MB
Chipset: VIA CX700
Graphic Card: VIA UniChrom Pro II IGP 64MB
Sound card: SigmaTel STAC9200
Harddisk: PATA, Samsung 30GB
Optical drive: Not available
Facility: WiFi b/g, Bluetooth 2.0+EDR, USB (1 buah), touchscreen, scroll, mic+earphone, VGA-out, Webcam
Display: 4,8 inches, resolution 1024x600 pixel (WSVGA)
Operating system: Windows XP Home Edition SP2
Battery: 4000mAh (4 cell)
Dimension: 19,2 x 8,2 x 2,9 cm
Wight: 524 grams (with standard cell)
Price Range: $699

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HTC Touch Cruise Review: Integrated GPS

2008-08-06T00:48:00.000-07:00

Need to be noted that this device do not apply SiRFstar III chip which usually used by most GPS device; this device only uses GPS chipset which integrated in processor. But position accuracy in the map application remains provable. Besides map application, in this device there are QuickGPS, what quickens determination time of GPS position with satellite data which downloaded via internet. We also can strengthen GPS signal capture with installing additional antenna in GPS port at rear of body. Of course this antenna is accessories which do not included in the package.

Not like its two younger brothers which have cute looks, this one looks so solid; reminds us at Dopod P800W. It is possible that this similarity because both device still having family relation. Moreover, all devices are equipped by GPS. As a whole, the appearance felt "smoothly" because the buttons is made flat like the casing. The example is the plate below the screen which loading 4 button. Besides the ordinary Call and End Call button, there is GPS and Internet Explorer shortcut button addition. Both shortcut likely is default feature because icon picture graven in iron case and we do not find setting to change the shortcut.

As member of Touch family, its touch screen is beyond question is equipped by TouchFLO. We just need to "press - scratch" the screen with thumb to operate menu that we want. The Home screen uses Live HTC Home, what provides weather information (real-time if GPRS is active), most use application (quick access to most used applications) and ringtone setting. If required, the stylus at the bottom is easy to pull swiftly.

The connectivity is can be said complete; there is Bluetooth 2.0, Wi-Fi, and 3G. Unfortunately, Bluetooth has not supported A2DP and AVRCP. About the problem of 3G, we can use Cruise for video-call because in up right corner there are addition of VGA camera. Likely the camera is only use for video call, because we fail to finds this camera setting usage in ordinary camera mode. It’s easy to make a phone call: just push the destiny number, and then push the phone icon in virtual key pad.

Windows Mobile 6 Professional in Touch Cruise is equipped by Direct Push. Hence we can enjoy push mail, with a note that our office use Microsoft Exchange server that supporting Direct Push. The setting of mail account, including free mail account, in this device is easy enough with Auto Setup feature.

Sturdy looks usually not modish; but not be relevant at Touch Cruise. GPS plus connection option to internet will make your office works more pleasant.

HTC Touch Cruise Review
Specification

Network: GSM 850/900/1800/1900 MHz, UMTS/HSDPA 2100MHz
Operating system: Windows Mobile 6 Professional plus Direct Push Outlook
Memory: ROM 256MB, RAM 128MB DDR SDRAM
Addition memory: MicroSD
Form: Candy Bar
Dimension: 110×58x15,5 mm
Weight: 130 grams
Battery: Li-ion 1350 mAh
Standby Time: to 400 hours
Talk Time: until 7 hour
Display: touch screen, 2,8 inches, LCD TFT, 65k colors
Connectivity between devices: mini USB, Bluetooth 20, Wifi
Internet connectivity: GPRS/EDGE/3G
Camera: 3MP, CMOS, auto of focus (main); VGA, CMOS (second)
Application: Adobe Reader LE, Audio Booster, Audio Manager, FM RADIO, Internet Sharing, JBlend, MapKing, Opera Browser, Quick GPS, RSS HUB, Streaming Media, Voice Commander, Voice Recorder, Zip

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Canon Ixus 80 IS Review: Stylish Ixus for Woman

2008-08-06T00:38:00.000-07:00

This Ixus design is made so fashionable and stylish to draws in all women user.

Its camera body color available from silver, blue, pink, chocolate, and golden. Shapes of Canon IXUS 80 IS body also rounded and oval causing strengthens the stylish impression of this camera which has 8 megapixel CMOS resolution.

Woman and adolescent generally are wishes practical and automation in photograph. One of innovation in photograph is Motion Detection Technology system which automatically boosts up sensitivity of light sensor (ISO/ASA) so camera can get higher shutter speed and can freeze object movement. But this feature active when user using camera at High ISO Auto mode.

Automation also seen from the inexistence of manual photograph feature, like full manual (M), diaphragm priority (AV), and also shutter speed priority (S). But Canon IXUS 80IS has provided various special photograph styles for various light condition and object type. User can choose Kids & Pets, Indoor, Sunset, Foliage, Snow, Beach, Fireworks, Aquarium, and Underwater scene. Moreover, Canon IXUS 80IS figure in Histogram diagrams facility which can be functioned as lighting indicator, tonal range, and detail/texture when take a picture. At least, user can directly compensated the lighting with topping out ISO or decides to use flash lamp help.

Image stabilizer system equipment that working optically at lens - not at light sensor – giving more plus feature at Canon IXUS 80IS. This system hardly helps us when trying to makes a picture with maximum zoom and also with macro system. With closest photo distance reaches 3 cm, we can record the detail/texture of beetle body excellently.

Logically, with more features activated will make photo process to become slower. We consider this thing doesn't bother at Canon IXUS 80IS. We guess this thing is because the support from DIGIC III processor which added to this camera. At best photo quality style, we note lag time between shutter button release with photo record is very small, that is around 0,5 seconds. Meanwhile, if flash lamp is activated, lag time becomes around 1 second.

Canon IXUS 80IS presents photo record with natural color quality, with accurate focus, and responsive for daily photo documentation. No manual menu of course makes it less compatibly to use for them intend to learning photography, but is compensation with many scene for various requirement.

Canon IXUS 80 IS Review
Specification

Resolution (pixel): 8 megapixel
Photo resolution (min/max): 640 x 480 / 3264 x 2448 pixels
Video resolution (min/max): 160 x 120, 15 fps / 640 x 480, 30 fps
Record media: SD, SDHC, MMC, MMCplus, HC
Photo File format: JPEG
ISO/ASA: 80-1600
Zoom: 3X optical (equivalent with 38-114 mm), 4X digital.
Shutter speed (1/detik): 1/60 detik-1/1500 second.
Closest Focus distance: 3 cm.
Viewfinder: (Available)
LCD Diagonal: 2,5 inchi.
Connection: USB, A/V output
Battery type: Li-ion rechargeable NB-4L.
Charger battery: (Available)
Dimension: 86,8 x 54,8 x 22,0 mm
Weight: 125 grams (without battery).
Price range: USD 285

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Canon DC310 Review: Simple and Fun

2008-07-30T23:25:00.000-07:00

There is diopter controller at viewfinder - pleases for people that wearing eyeglasses. The Viewfinder is so bright; unhappily cannot be lifted or fixed.

Simplicity is the theme carried by Canon at this DC310 camcorder. Can be look from its physical which almost clear of button.

Way of using it so easy, not necessarily to open the manual book. First of all, of course place battery which its energy has been filled. Then shifted lens cover slider in frontage towards under. Then, open its LCD screen. Moreover, shift switch in right side towards On position.

Don't forget to place appropriate mini DVD to slot in right side. To open the slot, shift slider with Disc Cover tags at backside unit towards Open and waiting until its cover opening. Lie down camcorder in left side, then lifted mini DVD door, and enters the disc. Press it, and close mini DVD door. Then wait until DVD ready to be used.

Because addressed for newbie, there is available Easy mode. At this mode, all setting has been done by camcorder - we ready to use it. To start records, just press white button in backside for start/stop records. If you want the object seen closer, draws the zoom handle above the unit towards right, and towards left to make it seen normal again.

But if you want having an experiment, removes slider towards P. At this P mode, you can arrange for example white balance, zooming speed, or whether we wish to exploit setting for certain situation, like nighttime, spotlight, sunset, snow, or fireworks.

Among arrangement, there is one interesting namely LCD Light On. This facility changes LCD screen to become light source (video lamp) in dark room. It easy to use it; just press Set, then turned around LCD that now all of its panel having white color, and applies viewfinder to look the object .

With all its facilities and simplicities, especially the easy mode, Canon DC310 is very suitable for newbie user.

Canon DC310 Specification

Resolution pixel: CCD 800.000 pixel
Photo resolution (min/max): 640x480/1024x768
Video resolution (min/max): Not mentioned
Connection type: AV
Format video: Not mentioned
Photo format: JPEG
Audio format: Not mentioned
Recording media: Mini DVD (DVD-R/R DL/RW), SD/SDHC/MMC Memory
Lens size equivalent-35mm (mm): 2,6 - 96,2
Aperture setting (wide/tele): F/20 - 52
Zoom: 37X optical (Advanced Zoom 41X); digital 2000X
Shutter speed (second): Not mentioned
Closest best focus (macro): 1cm
Diagonal LCD: 2,7" TFT color wide screen, 112.000 pixel
Viewfinder: 0,35" TFT color wide screen, 114.000 pixel
Battery type/ re-charge: Lithium-ion (7,4V 720mAh) / yes
Battery charger: Available
Dimension: 6,6 x 9 x 12,6 cm
Weight without battery /memory: 380 grams
Other equipment:
• Manual Instruction
• Adaptor + power cable
• AV Cable
• DVD ROM driver, application, and manual

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Canon HV20 HDV Review: Pro Handycam

2008-07-30T23:14:00.000-07:00

This handycam hardly suited for the newbie filmmaker. Various feature and quality which usually available at middle-up camcorder class presented at this handycam.

Can be said, only the lens which cannot to be detached and replace is differentiating Canon HV20 HDV from serious class camcorder. The lens with 10X optical zoom ability is equipped with image stabilizer to reduce shocking and blur of video picture record. We try the Focus Assist facility; the focus becomes more precision and responsive. The record result to detail/texture also has above average value.

When we test the handycam, we have time to ask around why its video picture color not vibrant and tends to soft-focus. In fact, 1/2,7 inch CMOS light sensor at Canon HV20 HDV is produces video picture character which "film-like".

1920 X 1080 pixels (19:6) video picture and PAL standard rotating speed (25 frame per second) what yielded no longer have the interlace character, but has applied progressive scanning system. So, this handycam records video picture of progressive scanning system into mini DV cassette which the standard using interlace scanning system.

Manual control systems also become "secret weapon" of Canon HV20 HDV. Although manual focus doesn't provide focus ring, but there is a focusing dial button which its speed can be set manually. More, there is shutter speed controller facility from 1/2-1/2000 seconds. This facility hardly helps when we try to record the video in low light condition and also fast moving subject.

Canon HV20 HDV has manual diaphragm control (iris) from f/1,8 to f/8. Wide diaphragm (small number) besides helping when recording in low light condition also gives slight depth of field to isolate object with mix of high optic zoom. While the thin diaphragm (big number) supports wide depth of field when recording landscape.

Result of video record can be transferred to computer through Firewire (IEE 1394) connection or looked on in plasma TV via HDMI connection. Canon HV20 also provides connection slot of Firewire connection, HDMI, and also Composite A/V. Moreover, Analog to Digital Passtrough connection also added at Canon HV20. This slot recognized also by the name of AV-DV input conversion, good for digitalization of analogue video. USB connection is also available to transferring photo file. If you want to save the photo into flash memory, there is available Mini SD slot.

We impressed with the availability of various slots which supporting addition of vital equipments in film making process. Mini jack slot for headphone enables you to monitors voice input. Hotshoe accessories enable video lamp addition to help lacking of light.

Slot for microphone minijack enables you applies better addition microphone (directional or boom) so can reduces bothering voice. Although, the two built-in microphone on the top body of Canon HV20 HDV able to yield stereo voice record and can reduce wind trouble when recording in outdoor.

Canon HV20 HDV pertained as handycam which rich of professional video record feature. We dare to recommend to all newbie home based user, film maker, and videografer.

Specification:

Light sensor resolution: CMOS 1/2,7 inchi. Total resolution 2,96 megapixel. Effective resolution 2,07 megapixel.
Video resolution (min/max): 1920 X1080 progressive, 25 fps
Photo resolution (min/max): 640 x 480 / 2048 x 1536
Connection type: Firewire (IEE 1394), USB, HDMI, Composite A/V, S-Video.
Video format: HDV
Photo format: JPEG
Audio format: MPEG1 Audio Layer II, PCM
Record media: Mini cassette of DV, memory card Mini-SD.
Lens zoom: 10 X (equivalent with 6,1 mm-61 mm)
Digital zoom: 200 X
Aperture/diaphragm/iris: f/1,8-3,0
Shutter speed: ½- 1/2000 seconds
LCD Diagonal: 27 inch
Battery type: Lithium ion, rechargeable.
Battery charger: available
Dimension: 88 X 80 X 138 mm
Weight: 535 grams
Warranty: 1 year
Price range: USD 1395

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Mio Moov 380: Full Touchscreen GPS Phone

2008-07-25T06:41:00.000-07:00

The presents of GPS feature in a cellphone, now is becomes a new trend. So, along the increasing of this trend, Mio Company which known as GPS device vendor is also take the opportunity to bring the new trend. Its newest product, Mio Moov 380 now is planted by cellular ability.

Actually, this big device is a GPS, with ' MioMap 2008' onboard map. But, the presents of GSM triband (900/1800/1900 MHz) technology and Win CE .Net 5 operating system, makes it more complete.

For the CPU (Central Processing Unit), this GPS peripheral relies on made in Samsung 2442. With processor speed in processing data until 400 MHz.

Besides, Mio Moov 380 also added by some cellphone standard feature. For example, 2 MP Camera, SMS, GPRS and microSD memory card slot.

Specs:

Dimension: 129mm x 78mm x 123mm (50"x31.5"x7.5")
Weight: 164 grams
Display: 4,3” TFT with touchscreen Flat Panel
Resolution: 480 x 242 Pixels (WQVGA)
GPS Chipset: SiRFstarIII
Battery: 720 mAh
CPU: Samsung 2442-400 MHz, Built-In Speaker
TTS: depends on Country, SiRFInstanFixii
Operating System: Win CE .Net 5
Display orientation: Landscape
Network: GSM 900/1800/1900 MHz, SHIM Card Slot, USB 2.0
Navigation Software: Miomap 2008
Equipment: MicroSD Slot, Microphone, Earphone Jack 2.5 mm

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Rovio: Spy Robot with Wi-Fi

2008-07-25T06:18:00.000-07:00

Rovio is a robot equipped by webcam. Applies WiFi technology which controlled by streaming media. With this gadget, you can watch special places, family, looking after animal and house from everywhere.

To ease the spying, Rovio is equipped by camera with elastic handle. It’s bendable to all directions. More, anything seen and heard by Rovio, you can know also through its display in PC, video game device or cellphone through the internet network.

Via NorthStar Navigation software help, that integrated with micro GPS system, Rovio automatically can reach the target or knows the location of object accurately, via the guidance of this navigation mapping systems.

This robot also functioned as security guard. What more interesting, Rovio designed to do battery recharging individually, by the way returning to its base.

Rovio Specs

Software: NorthStar Navigation System
Battery: Built-in rechargeable
Wheel: 3 omni directional wheels
Camera: VGA CMOS sensor
LED: Night Illumination
Feature: Speaker, Microphone, USB, WI-FI connectivity
PC: Compatible with Pentium 3 Processor or as of level of its, 256MB RAM, USB, device connected to WAP (Wireless Access Point) to attached to PC, Hi-Speed internet connection
Browser: Internet explorer 6 or higher (required for two directions audio communication)
Operating System: Windows XP or Vista

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Asus U6S Review: Taft Performance

2008-07-20T22:16:00.000-07:00

Asus U6S is inversed approach from Fujitsu Lifebook P8010. If Lifebook P8010 places forward the mobility, Asus U6S is more underline the performance. That thing is seen from inside component specification. Not only because the usage of Intel Core 2 Duo T7700 processor (fastest Intel notebook processor nowadays), but also because the existence of stand alone graphic card, nVidia GeForce 8400M GS 128MB. For your info, the 12,1" class notebook usually only applies onboard graphic card.

GeForce 8400GS actually is including entry-level graphic card, but it’s already can give uppermost 3D gaming ability. Asus U6S successfully reaches great score (1068) at 3DMark 2006, far above the other notebook which using onboard graphic card (300-500).

The usage of GeForce 8400GS also enables Asus to planted HDMI facility. The existence of HDMI in 12,1" notebook which doesn’t have Blu-ray and HD-DVD feature of course questionable, however its still a feature which differentiating Asus U6S with other notebook in its class.

Besides HDMI, feature provided by U6S it’s complete enough. Wireless facility is provided by WiFi a/b/g and Bluetooth, whereas the cable connection is provided by Ethernet. To keep the data is available 120 GB harddisk, which contributed by DVD Writer peripheral. As extras feature its available 0,3MP webcam and fingerprint scan and SIM Card slot (not available for all country).

Though has great machine, this 1,6 kg notebook still try coming up 'beautiful'. This thing seen from the chocolate cover which wrapping the palm rest. The outside which having chocolate nuance also gives elegant impression, and reminds me at former Asus “leather notebook”, Asus U1. The keyboard consisted of 85 balmy buttons. Unhappily, the similar excellence is not found at touchpad and its buttons. The Touchpad felt less sensitive, whereas the button felt hard to be press.

Because its form is small, 12,1" class notebook usually is associated with standard performance and limited facility. But not Asus U6S. The performance is uppermost, and the line of facility seen equivalent (even higher) compared to 14"class notebook. Asus U6S price is around US$ 1659, which felt good match for facility given.

Asus U6S Review
Specs:
Processor: Intel Core 2 Duo T7700 ( 2,4GHz, 2MB cache, FSB 800MHz)
RAM: 1GB, DDR2
Chipset: Intel PM965
Graphic Card: GeForce 8400M GS 128MB
Harddisk: 160GB, SATA
Optical drive: DVD Random Access Memory DL
Feature: Wi-Fi, LAN, Bluetooth , modem, card reader (5-in-1), 3 USB, FireWire, Webcam, Express Card, HDMI, Fingerprint Scan, UMTS Slot
Display: 12,1", 1280×800 pixel
Sound Card: Realtek ALC888 HD-Audio
Operating system: Windows Vista Ultimate
Battery: 2400 mAh, 7800 mAh
Dimension: 30,2×22,5×2,2-3,8 cm
Weight: 1,6 kgs
Price range: US$ 1659

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Fujitsu Lifebook P8010 Review: Small and Beautiful

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

Lifebook P8010 it really an ideal partner for mobile person. Not only because the existence of UMTS slot, but also because its 1,3 kg weight (lightest 12,1 inches notebook we have tested) and its thin design (only around 3cm). Even small, all facilities are available, like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, DVD Writer, card reader, until the fingerprint scanner. It’s also available Shock Detection facility which will lock the harddisk if fallen down.

But for inside component, compensation is a must. To take care of temperature and power consumption, Lifebook P8010 applies Intel LV (Low Voltage) SL7100 mobile processor (2GHz). This processor is 60% smaller compared to Intel Low Voltage notebook processor generation before all, so that more power economically and generates minim temperature.

The processor choice of course assists to lengthens the battery duration, seen from its endurance when play on High Definition film continuously during 2,5 hours. But this processor is less suited for heavy-weight computing, so that lag enough when pass the test of video encoding or 3DMark 2006. Lifebook P8010 is designed for standard computing activity like office works and internet browsing.

About the Internet access, we get no difficulty to connect to Internet applies cellular network. After installing SIM card behind the battery - is meaning you must take off the battery before installing it - Lifebook P8010 direct recognizes the card and we just need to enter SIM card setting to access Internet through 3G Watcher application.

Internet access speed can be higher if you stayed in good signal coverage because Lifebook P8010 supports access level until HSDPA (3,5G).

If till now your back felt stiff because has to bring the notebook all day long, Fujitsu Lifebook P8010 is your savior. With 1,3kg weight, this notebook has light weight, even if it is compared to other 12,1” class notebook. And differs from small computing product like UMPC or personal digital assistant, this notebook has more powerful computing ability, though applies Low Voltage processor class.

Fujitsu Lifebook P8010 Review
Specs:
Processor: Intel Core 2 Duo SL7100 (2GHz, 2MB cache, FSB 800MHz)
RAM: 1GB, DDR2 PC5300
Chipset: Intel GS965
Graphic Card: Intel GMA X3100
Harddisk: 200GB SATA
Optical drive: DVD±R DL
Feature: Wi-Fi, LAN, Bluetooth, modem, card reader (5-in-1), 3 USB, FireWire, Webcam (1,4 MP), PCMCIA, fingerprint scan
Display: 12,1inches, 1280x800 pixel
Sound Card: Realtek ALC262 HD-Audio
Operating system: Windows Vista Business
Dimension: 28x21,2x3-4,2 cm
Weight: 1,3 kg

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Sony Vaio FZ25G Review: Thin with Bright Screen

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Sony Vaio FZ25G Review: Thin with Bright Screen

2008-07-18T23:21:00.000-07:00

Sony is known as the notebook with cool design, and it returns in this FZ25G series. One of important factor which making this notebook seen classy is its thin body (flimsiest part only 2,9cm at the time of closed) and the combination of silver color in external side and black in the internal side. Classy impression is also seen from circular multimedia control panel in upside of keyboard, which facilitates us to control this notebook multimedia side.

Sony Vaio FZ25G itself is 15,4" a notebook which positioned by Sony for multimedia segment. Besides the existence of control panel as we describes above, the segmentation also seen from HDMI facility which enabling us to plug in this notebook to TV (with HDMI facility) to look on High Definition format film. This notebook is also equipped with good speaker quality to play your favorite song.

But the most special multimedia ability from this notebook is its screen. Firstly sees it, we directly like the screen great feature which is so light and sharply, with accurate color.

This thing is stand-out when we implement Eizo Test program, because this notebook can show difference of black color gradation of 6% - 8% clearly; shows high contrast ratio from the screen applied by Vaio FZ25G. According to Sony, the bright screen is the effect of Clear bright High Color LCD 90 technology which also applied in its Bravia series TV.

One thing that always did by Sony at its notebook is its fully equipped software. At this notebook, line of software already installed, starts which related to DVD Creation, Video & Photo until music. Partly mentioned here is DVD Creation (to make DVD Movie), Roxio Easy Media Creator (file backup), Movie Story (video editing), Adobe Premiere Elements (video editing), and Vaio Media to share file in local network.

So many software can be ranked as plus value of FZ22G, but also able to become boomerang because fulfilling the harddisk; especially if it a boatware (loading when notebook booting). So, it’s better to choose which software that you needed.

With great screen quality, Sony Vaio FZ25G can present picture detail with finely. Its thin form and light weight (for 15,4"notebook class) increasingly adds attractiveness of this notebook. But the performance of this notebook not as good as if compared to one class notebook likes Acer Aspire 5920G. Sony Vaio FZ25G is more matched for you who placing forward the design and screen quality factor.

Sony Vaio FZ25G Review
Specs:
Processor: Intel Core 2 Duo T7250 ( 2GHz, 2MB cache, FSB 800MHz)
RAM: 1GB, DDR2 PC5300
Chipset: Intel PM965
Graphic Card: Geforce 8400M GT 128MB
Harddisk: 160GB SATA
Optical drive: Pioneer DVD±R DL
Feature: Wi-Fi, LAN, Bluetooth, modem, card reader (5-in-1), USB (3port), FireWire, Webcam, Express Card, HDMI.
Display: 15,4 inch, 1280x800 pixel
Sound Card: SigmaTel STAC9872AK
Operating system: Windows Premium Home Vista
Battery: 4800mAh
Dimension: 35,6x25,5x(2,9-4,1) cm
Weight: 2,63 kg

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G4 Titan Heatsink: Stylish Cooler Pad

2008-07-18T23:08:00.000-07:00

Nowadays, notebook cooler, or often called as Cooler Pad, can be said become a popular notebook accessory. This accessory more or less can lessen temperature yielded by notebook so that notebook is becomes cooler and comfortable to use. One of cooler pad which we tested is G4 Titan.

G4 Titan has good enough design. Both sides have a hole, so that the user can use it in the reverse side and arrange the wind direction which out from four fans which attached in it. To turn on its fan, connect one of your USB port with cable power which provided.

Looks from its measure, this G4 Titan suited to apply with notebook which has 12" to 17" size. Its form also compact because its width can be arranged. Be careful when applies this cooler pad, because the surface seen smooth and unsteady to hold up the notebook, though have been equipped with rubber prop.

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Olympus FE-300 Review: Point and Shoot

2008-06-23T00:01:00.000-07:00

Dial button which do not figure in manual and semi manual modus shows that this camera haves the "point and shot” character.

Automatic system at Olympus FE-300 that providing 12 scenes is affirming that this camera addressed for user which need simple and practical camera. Nevertheless, focus system at Olympus FE-300 still be made responsive including when we applied it to make a picture inside the home. Long shot from behind the windows also yields sharp enough result because of unique mode so called Behind the Glass. The same Scene also gives good result to make a picture of object at display window and fish in aquarium.

We also always apply the function of light sensor sensitivity menu because enabled at all of automatic photograph style, except at auto photo modus. We did it so that the camera doesn't lead to style ASA/ISO 3200 or 6400 because photo frame size will be minimized to become 640x320 pixel automatically. User can choose compensation intensity of light, and then applies to make a picture of object.

Olympus FE-300 figures in also automatic photo modus for special occasion. We note, modus Document is good enough when applied to make a picture of print media. Just assumes this facility can function as emergency scanner. This camera not closes the possibility to learning make a picture of still life for its user through automatic photograph style. Test result of Cuisine automatic mode to make a picture of fruits, food, vegetable gives color that tending to more matured color (vivid).

To maximize the result of photo at automatic photograph style of Document and Cuisine we combine it with macro facility and time delay. Macro facility gives accurate focus for so close distance photo, whereas delay time obviates the photo becoming not focus as result of camera shake when finger push the shutter release buttons.

As a whole, Olympus FE-300 presents good enough photo result to everyday use camera. The existence of 12 scenes for various photograph scenarios also facilitates newbie user to get best photo result. But, its minimum manual facility of course shows clearly the segmentation of this camera.

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Canon Powershot SX100 IS Review: Great Photo Detail

2008-06-22T23:55:00.000-07:00

Canon as one of camera vendors with best focus system is suitable if it applied at Powershot SX100 IS. This compact camera presents great focus performance in its class.

Canon Powershot SX100 IS equipped with 10X optical zoom ability which is equivalent with focal length 36-360 mm at SLR camera 135 mm. In our test, lower focal length lens (without zoom) yields photo result with tending to soft focus. Canon Powershot SX100 IS also has the ability in reducing barrel distortion (curved of straight line).

When applied to make a picture of face, sharp photo result is always reached with activation of face recognition feature.

Canon Powershot SX100 IS equipped with photo result stabilizer which work optically. Mean, position of lens elements will change to compensate the shaking so the picture is still focus.

Indoor photo not become a problem for Canon Powershot SX100 IS. Focus performance still responsive enough in limited light condition. When used with help of flash lamp, light spread evenly and doesn't become centrally. This thing shows good enough performance from flash lamp, although it’s only built-in flash lamp with small reach out capacity (GN-Guide Number). But can be noted that this camera only gives warning at LCD screen if the condition is lack of light and need a flash lamp help, not like most camera that is automatically opens the flash lamp when the condition is needed more light.

There is one indication that is properly noted, that is speed of record when using flash lamp. Photo recording is so faster (around ½ second) when flash lamp is not applied. When flash lamp is applied, photo shutter speed become slowly (2 second).

About its color quality, Canon Powershot SX100 IS gives great color saturation. The color is solid enough but not overload, so looks natural and realistic.

Photo pixel starts to seen at ASA/ISO 400, especially in part of photo shadow. Its available ASA 80 which producing tonal gradation (light-dark) and softer color saturation. We surprises about the ability of Canon Powershot SX100 IS in maintain the detail in part of highlight, especially at ISO 80. Generally, the ability of detail or texture records at all of zoom spread is great enough.

Canon Powershot SX100 IS is a good choice for newbie photography enthusiast and also semi-professional with not overvalued budget. Lens quality which is not failed with the output of big photography lens producer and supported by optical stabilizer is one of factor that needs to be considered.

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ZvBox Review: From Computer to Every HDTV

2008-06-18T22:33:00.000-07:00

Before all, to see favorite TV program or film which downloaded from Internet, user should accept limited computer monitor screen size. If wish to see it in HDTV screen, need additional subscribe expense or must have a hardware addition device (set-top-box) for every TV. But the presence of ZvBox from ZeeVee Inc. changes it all.

ZvBox is first device which enabling user to look on anything which they get in internet or all file in the computer to all HDTV in house. The unique, ZvBox attributed to every high definition TV only with ordinary coaxial cable. Its only need one ZvBox to connect one computers to every HDTV.

ZvBox is a new product category in electronic goods so-called local-casting. This is a breakthrough method to broadcast any kind of computer can do applies common cable and TV tuner which patching at HDTV.

Local-casting has excess, for example, because can display all online content and multimedia file in computer hard disk without needing TV cable subscribe expense. It also broadcasts the same resolution with displayed by computer. Besides, what user can do in computer its also can be done by HDTV, for example sending e-mail, browsing, editing photo, listens music, or run computer DVD player.

Moreover, the existence of ZvBox doesn't change customer habit in enjoying TV. Because ZvBox localization its signal to a TV channel which is open, user can see Zv by choosing the channel, like choosing other TV channel.

Zvbox have been available exclusively in online shop (Amazon.com). Zvbox is sold by US$ 499, it’s including ZvRemote and Zviewer- wide screen guide. Zeevee will start sends its product to subscriber by 30 Junes.

ZvBox Review
Specs:
Dimension: 290 x 35 x 102 mm
Weight: 550 gr
Input/output: 1x USBV2.0; 2x VGA HIGH DENSITY 15 pins D-sub; TV F-Type Female cable; HDTV with digital-cable ready tuner
Audio: PCM and Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound through USB
Video input: VGA ( or connector DVI-A with VGA adaptor)
Video output: to dfull HD (1080i)
Local-casting: RF Modulation
Encoding: MPEG-2

Computer Requirement

Operating system: Windows XP (SP2); Vista
Processor: 2 GHz
Memory: 2 GB DRAM
Hard disk space: 50 MB
USB: USB 1.0 or USB 2.0 (2 port)
Internet Service: 6 Mbps Bandwidth

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Mvix MV-2500U Review: Ultra Portable with Media Platform

2008-06-18T22:18:00.000-07:00

Just need four months after launching its newest product, Mvix returns to launch its portable external hard disk in the early of this month. The newest product named by MV-2500U is an ultra light hard disk but have big capacity.

MV-2500U dimension is 5 x 3 x only 0,8 inches only. This size is alike to a PDA. As for the hard disk is in 2,5 inches form.

Its maximum capacities are 250 GB, equivalent with 100 DVD film format. Mvix also provides 80 GB and 160 GB version.

The difference, it doesn’t have LCD screen. To access the menus, user needs to connect it to other screen, like computer or HDTV. Menu can be explored with button and stick in its body or through remote control.

MV-2500U can present photo slide show and play music as background. It also can read MP3 file even resides at different folder.

As jukebox, this external hard disk ready to play varying audio format, that is AC3, MP2, MP3, DTS, WMA, and OGG. User just needs to connect it to television and audio system. Music will be sounded off through both devices.

This small hard disk supports various video formats technology that is MPEG-1, MPEG-2, and MPEG-4, DVD (VOB, IFO), DivX ® (3/4/5/6), Xvid, BivX ®, and VCD (DAT), either PAL or NTSC system. It also can keep and decode various high definition digital video standards (480p, 720p, 1080i).

Just alike DVD or VCD, user can do fast forward, rewinds, or pause video record through buttons in its body.

MV-2500U, which designed with black color, contains PATA/IDE HDD drive. When connected to computer, it directly works as external USB device.

All components in its body are according to Restriction of Hazardous Substances Compliant. Mean, Mvix makes it from free toxic material and component.

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Panasonic SC-BT100 Review: Blu-ray Home Cinema

2008-06-11T21:56:00.000-07:00

Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company introduces most recent version from home cinema system in its one box. This SC-BT100 Model is first product of Panasonic which integrating Blu-ray player. This product will be shipped by the end of springtime with the retail price US$ 1000.

SC-BT100 is also friendly to iPod. It’s because there is a dock, so that user can hear music or looks on video with family and friend. Whereas iPod operates, the dock will charge iPod battery. iPod also able to be controlled from device remote control.
Besides, it’s available a SecureDigital flash memory card slot so that user can see picture and play on video file in memory card.

Panasonic says that SC-BT100 is a product that allies the installation easiness and user friendly operation and added by features and performance from upper class video audio components, including Blu-ray Full High Definition resolution 1080i video, wireless rear loudspeaker, and 5.1 Canals sound systems.

Its sound system can be improved to become 7.1 canals by buying two side loudspeakers and a transceiver. This system sends sophisticated audio. Receiver planted in it fits with recent audio codec, like Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby True HD, DTS HD, DTS-HD High Definition, DTS-HD Audio Master, and Linear PCM.

The Subwoofer which designed by Kelton have a driver that residing in cabinet base and a passive radiator to lessen vibration during sending more dynamic bass sound. Front and middle canal loudspeaker using diaphragm from bamboo to produce more accurate and aggressive sound. In order that user feels surround sound effect without bothering other, this system equipped by Whispere-mode Surround.

Blu-ray player in this home cinema system similar to Blu-ray player Panasonic BD50 in offering 24 frame per second output, supports Deep Color, and can playback camera record of AVCHD format video.

In market, this Panasonic product will compete with Samsung product HT-BD2S which have same price. But HT-BD2S doesn't have iPod dock, DTS HD Master decoding, and memory card slot. Other difference, Samsung product applies 7.1 canal sound systems.

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APC UPB10 Review: Extra Power for Gadget

2008-06-11T21:45:00.000-07:00

Traveling and bringing gadget of course makes journey becoming pleases. But, sometimes, limitation of battery energy makes troublesome.

One of the solutions is bring battery and backup charger. A lot of product in the market, one of them is made in American Power Conversion Corp. (APC), a company that existing in network business, battery, and data center.

APC recently launches UPB10 Mobile Power Pack. It is a extra energy for many kinds of gadget. Besides, compared to other product, like PPS-130 from Battery Geeks, it is far cheaper.

Its form is square and thin with snugly dimension in pocket. Battery with black glossy plastic material is quite bigger than RAZR phone made in Motorola.

On the top there is a LED lamp line, which is battery energy status indicator. This indicator can be turned on with a chrome button in tip of lamp.

APC makes this battery with lithium polymer technology which shatterproof and cheaper. It can take in more energy and brief enough charging time: between 3 and 4 hour.

To fill the battery energy, just connect UPB10 to AC adapter which connected to electrics source. LED Lamp will show it’s the power is full or still must be charged.

UPB10 is ready to become backup battery for gadget which having USB port, Mini USB, or USB-Dock cable. When connected, hence UPB10 will add the energy of phone, PDA, and MP3 player.

It can add 55 hours power for iPod Nano and 10 hours for phone.

Unfortunately, not all USB cables is compatible to paired to UPB10. For example, when I try to makes it as backup battery of Palm Centro, Palm USB-Dock cable cannot flow energy from this peripheral.

UPB10 is also able to use as charger by the way connecting it to gadget or laptop through USB cable. Then, connect it to electrics source through AC adapter.

The problem, per 15 minutes it will enter sleep mode, so that user must press the Status button so recharge process run again. This condition of course disturbs because recharge process must be monitored.

APC UPB10 Review
Specs:
Type: Lithium polymer
Maximum age: 2-4 years
Dimension: 99 x 64 x 14 mm
Weight: 0,09 kilograms
Color: Black
Area of operation: 0-40 degree Celsius’s
Storage temperature: 0-40 degree Celsius’s
Price range: US$ 60

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Sony HDR-TG3E Review: Smallest Full HD Camcorder

2008-06-11T21:37:00.000-07:00

In world of sport, every athlete dreams become quickest, highest, and strongest in the world. For electronic device, there is another contested among its producer, that is becomes the smallest one. That why, Sony Europe proudly announces that its product, HDR-TG3E, be the smallest High Definition camcorder, 1080i (1.920 x 1.080) in the world.

Actually, in dimension and weight aspect, Sony TG3E still bigger if compared to Sanyo Xacti DMX-HD700 (volume: 171 cc, weight: 189 grams), but this Sanyo camcorder only produce HD 720p video.

TG3E applies Memory Stick Pro Duo storage media (4 GB) which able to keep HD video during one hours and 25 minutes. This peripheral relies on CMOS ClearVid sensor with 4 megapixel, Carl Zeiss Vario Tessar lens which having 10X optical zooming and 120X digital zooming, and BIONZ image processor. TG3E is also equipped with 2,7 inches touch screen LCD which able to be turned around for optimal view.

TG3E body is wrapped by titanium so that beside make it seen elegant, but also anti scratch. Titanium is 40% lighter than metal and twice stronger than aluminum. According to Sony, this product targeting to young people (less than 35 years) which liking to celebrate with friend and wish a classy camcorder.

The other unique feature on this gadget is its ability to detect and traces faces (to eight faces in one frame) from subject during filming. This feature is so common at digital camera, but new for camcorder.

Besides, built-in mike at this camera can trace voice from main subject. Noise sound in background is also automatically eliminated, including sound from lens when doing zoom.

This camera picture quality amazes when displayed in 50 inches plasma TV. Its D-Range Optimizer technology will adjust dynamic range to reproduce high contrast and backlit views which more natural.

TG3E is launched in Europe area and available in Sony Style online shop with the price of 649 pound sterling or US$ 1270.

Sony HDR-TG3E Review
Specs:
Image sensor: CMOS ClearVid 1/5.0
Processor: BIONZ
Lens: Carl Zeiss Vario Tessar, F 1,8-2,3, focal distance 3,2-32 mm, 10X optical zooming, 120X digital zooming
Storage media: Memory Stick Duo
Display: LCD Clear Photo, LCD Plus, 2,7 inches touch panel
Video Quality: HD (1.920 x 1.080i), 16 Mbps (full HD), HQ (9 Mbps), SP (7 Mbps), LP (5 Mbps)
Dimension: 63 x 119 x 32 mm
Weight: 240 grams
Price range: 649 pound sterling or US$1270

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HTC P3400i Review: Another HTC Touch family

2008-06-11T21:22:00.000-07:00

P3400i is newest Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) phone in HTC Touch family. It has adopted newest mobile operating system by Microsoft, Windows Mobile 6.

This PDA Phone is addressed for newbie user. With the presents of product in this new segment, HTC has entered almost all segment of mobile peripheral user with its various PDA Phone series.

If compared to its predecessor HTC Touch in series, like P3400 alias HTC Gene, and also TyTN II, forms design of P3400i doesn’t has essential change. The external display is still having many similarities with the old brothers.

P3400i do not equipped by button which too much in its frontage. There is only phone function button and shortcut access to some PDA menus. But, the other menu still can be accessed through its 2,8 inches touch screen.

Differs from model P3400, what relies on Windows Mobile 5, this newest model powered by Windows Mobile 6 Professional. Its processor is TI OMAP 200 MHz.

Application planted at this PDA Phone makes it can access Internet, e-mail, becomes entertainment gadget, and Office file viewer. All of it is because DirectPush Mail, Internet Explorer Mobile, Windows Media Player 10 Mobile, Windows Live Messenger, and Office Mobile.

It also equipped by 2 megapixel CMOS camera. This camera also functions as video recorder.

Even works in Quad-Band GSM 850/900/1800/1900 MHz network, this PDA phone don’t have third generation connectivity (3G). Data transfer and its Internet connectivity only can be done through EDGE/GPRS network.

Very clear, with its price, or few disparities, there are some other PDA Phone choices working in that network. P3400i also do not have wireless Internet connectivity like WiFi.

Its 64 MB RAM capacity is too little. If it plated by larger ones memory, 128 MB for example, to accessing Windows Mobile 6 will felt more pleasant.

The minus is lessen with the existence of HTC Home interface feature, what makes access to this PDA Phone is very easy. This is the features to access most applied application, instantly.

HTC P3400i Review
Specs:
Processor: OMAP 200 MHZ
Platform: Windows Mobile 6
RAM: 64 MB
Dimension: 109 x 58 x 17,65 mm
Weight: 126 grams with LCD type battery
Display: TFT LCD 2,8 inches.
Network: GSM/GPRS/EDGE QUAD-BAND 850/900/1800/1900 MHz
Camera: 2 MP CMOS Imagine Sensor Connectivity & Interface
Connectivity: Bluetooth® v2.0, Mini-USB 2.0, audio jack all in one

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ROKR E8 Review: Motorola New Music Phone

2008-06-08T23:52:00.000-07:00

There is always a way how vendor makes their music phone music so unique. Sony Ericsson and Nokia have created his own technology, so do Motorola.

Recently Motorola launches its music phone so called ROKR E8. This is a phone with elegant and luxuriant body wrapped by glass material.

This phone equipped by unique feature: touch sensor interface and three ModeShift. By one button touch, user will see ROKR E8 present specific interface, as according to function which they want.

If wish to play music, for example, number buttons would disappear, changes by button of shuffle on/off, auto of repeat on/off, rewind, and forward.

And so do if wish to make a picture with camera, phone only present button of zoom in/out, scene automatic, video record viewer and editing, and switch between video camera and photo.

As a phone which created with music as main feature, ROKR E8 is equipped also with FastScroll navigation button. The user enough shifting finger in light line (non full circle) to choose song and rewind-forward the song swiftly.

ROKR E8 compatible with Windows Media Player 11 so that it able to swiftly transfer the song from personal computer. To transfer 10 original albums, each 10 songs, only required three minutes transfer time.

2 GB internal memory capacity and additional memory to 4 GB makes it big enough for thousands of song.

E8 also has SongID feature to recognize song from radio broadcast. When I play a song from radio, in less than five minutes, it directly recognizes it as song of Skinhead Girl by Warzone. This feature requires GPRS connection.

When play on the music, this phone able to be used for surfing in Internet and makes a picture. Music still able to played when phone is turn off in plane.

Song only stopped when there is a phone call. After call completed, music would automatically on again.

Through Real Audio feature, ROKR E8 presents sparkling voice and more energetically with addition of loudspeaker accessory (S9 Bluetooth Stereo Headphones).

ROKR E8 is also equipped by 2 megapixel camera with 8X zooming. This camera equipped by multishot and recorder and video player feature. It also equipped by Crystal Talk technology to make clear voice when make a call and Text to Speech to read short message.

Unhappily, this phone not equipped sophisticated data transfer feature. It still use GPRS/EDGE network when other competitor has played in 3,5G level.

ROKR E8 Review
Specs:
Dimension: 115 x 53 x 10,6 mm
Network: Quad-band
Transfer of data: GPRS/EDGE
Weight: 100 grams
Display: 2 inches, QVGA, 262K TFT, 240 x 320 pixels
Memory: 2 GB (internal) and 4GB (addition memory)
Feature: ModeShift, Fast Scroll Navigation, Microsoft Music Ecosystem, 3.5 mm Stereo Headset Jack, Wireless Stereo Bluetooth (A2DP), 2 MP Camera, Airplane Mode, Text to Speech Messages, Crystal Talk
Audio format: MIDI, MP3, AAC, AAC+, Enhanced AAC+, WMA, WAV, AMR-NB, Real Audio (RA) v10
Connectivity: Bluetooth, USB
Battery: 970 mAh

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LG Scarlet Review: Touch of Red

2008-06-08T23:42:00.000-07:00

High definition LCD TV market becomes more crowded. After Samsung and Philips, now LG start to enter the premium market. This South Korea Company launches its new LCD TV, Scarlet.

This Scarlet Label consisted of four size variants: 32 inches and 37 inches for high definition support class and 42 inches and 47 inches for full high definition class. All variant supporting contrast ratio 50.000 : 1.

From this base specification aspect, Scarlet is head to head product for Action series from Philips and made in Samsung TV which has launch to market before. The vendor launches their product with black glossy color domination.

LG tries to makes Scarlet looked eye-catching from various sides. Its front display of course having black glossy color, but its backside is given by red glossy color. This makes it called as Scarlet, alias carmine.

Every LCD TV vendor of course comes with great’s facility. This time LG tries to draws attention with Scarlet thin dimension. With 45 millimeters thickness only, Scarlet is claimed as slimmest LCD TV in the world.

A hole with red LED lamp frames and soft touch sensor become decorative access in front face. This soft touch sensor becomes unique feature.

Via this soft touch sensor television will be turn on or turn off. Just touch your finger into hole, to LED lamp side.

Besides its dynamic contrast ratio reaching 50.000: 1, Scarlet had quickest response time nowadays; 4 millisecond. This feature will make fast moving pictures at television can be seen clearly.

With intelligent eye sensor technology, this television automatically can accommodate level of brightness, contrast, and screen color, with room lighting. This technology also makes your eye not tired when watching TV in long time.

Like Philips, LG also "hides" its loudspeaker through invisible speaker technology. Every unit contains four loudspeakers. For this technology, LG holds mutually Mark Levinson, famous audio company.

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Kohjinsha SH610B Review: More Complete Control Panel

2008-06-04T23:16:00.000-07:00

If previously UMPC Kohjinsha present with AMD Geode processor, hence this time Kohjinsha also present through SH series using Intel Celeron M processor. This SH model consisted of SH610B and SH811W series (higher specification). SH610B series which we tested is popular enough even only applies Intel Celeron M A 100 processor (600MHz). If may be contested, Kohjinsha SH610B price (US$ 980) can be said competitive compared to one class UMPC.

Like also previous Kohjinsha model, SH610B locates 7 inches screen which able to be turned around 180 degrees so closing its keyboard. But compared to previous version, SH series screen now can reach higher resolution (1024x600 pixel) and its screen display is more contrast because LED-Backlit from Samsung. You would easy to see the screen display even gets strong light from outside. SH series also has 1,3 MB resolution Webcam which is good enough for video chat.

As its operating system, Kohjinsha planted Windows Vista into SH series. Surely user will get new experience with this operating system, but in our opinion the processed in UMPC is faster if using Windows XP because mobile processor like Celeron model is not the correct choice to implement Vista. Besides, when we setting the battery to "Power Saver" mode in Vista, this device performance felt so slow.

Compared to SA series (with AMD processor), SH model has better keyboard response with input delay can be more lessened. Besides touch access via pen stylus, the existence of mouse click button and scroll at near of screen is also makes SH series more comfortable compared to SA series. Navigation tools also more complete through addition of program execution, enter, screen rotation and display brightness menu button.

Applies SH610B for office and Internet application of course pleases especially if at outside room. Keyboard and display characteristic of course is pertained mini but still be comfortable compared to other UMPC which smaller. SH Series also has a facility to make fan rotation more quietly even we thing is not too useful at UMPC type gadget.

To see how far the performance of SH610B hence comparing it with SA1 series which we have tested clearly precise. From score obtained seen that the combination of Intel A100 processor and DDR2 memory is faster compared to previous model. The performance ought to be faster and battery energy is more economized if use Windows XP because Vista tends to spend bigger power. Very mobile consumer will fit in with Kohjinsha which offers high mobility and fully equipped input as a UMPC.

Kohjinsha SH610B Review
Price range: $980
Processor: Intel Celeron M ULV A100 600MHz
RAM: SO-DIMM DDR2 PC2-3200, 512MB
Chipset: Intel Calistoga-G i945GU + ICH7U
Graphic Card: Intel Mobile 945GM/GU 64MB
Sound Card: Realtek AC’97 (ALC262)
Harddisk: 160GB, PATA
Optical drive: No
Display: 7 inches, 1024x600 pixel (WXGA)
Dimension: 22,7 x 17 x 3,3 cm
Weight: 995 gram (with standard Battery)
Battery: 2600mAh (3 cell)
Operating Sytem: Windows Vista Home Basic
Feature: Lan, WiFi b/g, Bluetooth 2.0 + EDR, Card reader (SD, MMC, MS, CF), USB (2 port), WebCam (1,3MP), VGA out, pointer, scroll, mic + earphone

OQO e2 Another Review

2008-06-04T23:00:00.000-07:00

As a UMPC, OQO e2 takes different approach with Kohjinsha SH610B. Why? Because OQO e2 equipped itself with special dongle, contains of Ethernet connector, VGA Out, USB (2 port), and DVD Writer device. So can be said that OQO e2 is a PC or notebook, but in smaller size.

But it stills an UMPC. OQO e2 can be applied without having to apply dongle. Principally, e2 has 5 inches screen, equipped by integrated keyboard, and easy to connect to network through Bluetooth and WiFi. As data storage device is available 120GB harddisk, which in it have been planted of Windows XP (Windows Vista ready). Its weight is less than 500 grams, makes it is portable to accompany your business activity.

This gadget also easy to grasped because its figure is only 14x8,5 cm. But when this device shifted to release its keyboard, broadness reaches 14x12 cm. The keyboard consisted of 60 buttons, with 5x5 mm button size and distance around 2 mm. Because its layout following “qwerty” standard and every button is "emerge" or has high difference with its base, we successfully familiarizes with quickly. However, there is some punctuation mark, like comma or question mark, which its position differs from standard keyboard formation so that complicating enough at first.

Adaptation process also required to apply the input mode. Like we have referred above, OQO e2 doesn't give touch screen, so the input process is replaced by trackpoint and two buttons to left and right click. Trackpoint is placed in right side, whereas click button in left side, so that can be applied at the same applies two hands.

Besides to typing, we also try this gadget to surf the internet. Like most UMPC, the small screen resolution (800x480 pixel) becoming a barrier. You must scroll to read overall of site. Happily, OQO smartly locates touch area in right side of screen. This touch screen can be applied to furl page to left - right and also up - down. OQO e2 also provides zoom facility (basically, enlarges the resolution with interpolation technique), so that you can enlarge page if you like to sees the detail clearly.

By good computing ability and portability, OQO e2 promises great computing experience in anywhere. But the high price of course makes this product is hard to buy. The price not even far above than other UMPC, but also comes near of upper class notebook price. Finally, OQO e2 only suited for you which really place forward the portability (and of course have lot of money).

OQO E2 Review
Price range:
OQO Model e2 - HDD 64 GB SSD - Win XP Pro: $2,869.99
OQO Model e2 - HDD 64 GB SSD - Vista Business: $2,869.99
OQO Model e2 - HDD 120 GB :$1,879.99
Processor: VIA C7-M, 1,6GHz
RAM: 890MB
Chipset: VIA VX700
Graphic Card: VIA S3G Unichrome
Harddisk: 120GB, IDE
Optical drive: No
Display: 5 inches, 800x480 pixel
Dimension: 14,2 x 8,4 x 2,6 cm
Weight: 454 gram
Battery: 17 Wh
Feature: At UMPC (WiFi, Bluetooth, HDMI, USB); At Dongle (Ethernet, USB, HDMI, audio)

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Time Capsule Review: Easy Backup

2008-06-01T23:12:00.000-07:00

To make backup become an easy process and can be done continuously without hard to manage it, Apple introduces a device so called Time Capsule. The peripheral which launched in same time with MacBook Air is supports Wi-Fi 802.11n network.

Time Capsule designed to work along with Time Machine application which becoming part of Leopard. Besides as storage device, Time Capsule also works as router that share internet access.

Not only that, this peripheral also can be applied as printer sharing in network. Time Capsule and Bonjour network technology enables everyone in house or office exploits one printer centrally. User also can share its data – for example by connecting a external harddisk to Time Capsule.

What about with PC user which not use Macintosh? It is the fun; Time Capsule also supports base on Windows XP and Windows Vista PC. This peripheral also supports Mac which still based on Tiger. We sure Time Capsule will make people who usually lazy to makes backup - except have experienced losing of data- will be fond of (or subconsciously) does it.

The Insufficiency of Time Capsule is harddisk drive at this peripheral cannot be released. You cannot extend drive capacities or replaces it with other harddisk drive.

From price side, Apple offers 500GB version with US$ 299 price and 1TB version with US$499 price. This price is reasonable enough remembers in it has included harddisk drive, router, access point Wi-Fi 802.11n, and its support software.

Apple equipped Time Capsule with three port of Gigabit Ethernet ports, one port of Gigabit Ethernet WAN port, one port of USB 2.0 security WPA/WPA-2, and WEP 128-bit. Time Capsule is also equipped with NAT firewall which supporting NAT-PMP.

Time Capsule Review
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Apple iMac (MA877LL) Review: New Design, Better Performance

2008-06-01T22:53:00.000-07:00

Apple must get special credit in their ability to make "wow" effect in every Apple product. One of them is All-in-One PC concept applied at their desktop computer, iMac. Since its presence in 1998, iMac successfully steals public attention because the concept which merge monitor with other computer component. And in 10 years of its presence, the concept always develops until iMac generation MA877LL series which we tested now.

This product is the third generation of iMac since changes over applies Intel processor. Its base concept is still the same, which is using notebook component positioned at back of 20 inches LCD screen. But this newest iMac applies better machine compared to previous iMac Intel generation. Just look the inside. It use Intel processor generation Santa Rosa T7700 2,4GHz, ATi Radeon HD2400 XT graphic card and 250GB capacities harddisk. The design is also get modified. The iMac new version has applied aluminum material with metallic color (previous iMac generation use white polycarbonate color). While its operating system is using Leopard which is the newest version from Macintosh OS X.

Just like the other notebook, iMac is equipped by complete wireless feature, starts from infra-red, Bluetooth, and WiFi. WiFi has support WiFi-N standard, so that theoretically will send data 5X faster than WiFi b/g type which used occasionally at other notebook. Other facility provided is camera 1,3 MP, DVD Writer, and two stereo speaker. But differs from NEC Powermate P5000, there are no card reader or PCMCIA facility in this iMac. iMac Keyboard and mouse also still using USB connection, not yet Bluetooth like at Powermate P5000.

Apple changes its keyboard design in this newest iMac. This new design looks like Macbook, seen from wide distance between the buttons. The keyboard felt balmy to applied, though unhappily there is no hand rest and keyboard rest to arrange keyboard proclivity.

But lack in the keyboard side doesn't hold back usage satisfaction of iMac as a whole. LCD screen with 1680x1050 pixel resolution gives sharpness and color accurateness which almost perfect. The speaker gives great sound experience to us when listen to music and watch a movie.

About the performance, iMac also comes up gratifies. We testing iMac by the way installing Windows Vista uses Boot Camp facility and runs the regular test application. The result is impressive. iMac seen so superior than NEC Powermate P5000 which using AMD Turion64 X2 TL-52 processor and onboard graphic card. If compared to standard desktop PC, iMac performance can be said equal.

Though its concept has follows by many produces but iMac remain to shows its class as best All-in-PC compared to the competitor. Not only in performance, but also it cool design factor. There are some facility which we expect can find in iMac - like Bluetooth keyboard/mouse and card reader - but difficult to don’t like iMac.

Apple iMac (MA877LL) Review
Specs:
Processor: Intel Core 2 Duo T7700 (2,38GHz, 4MB L2 cache, FSB 800MHz)
RAM: DDR2 PC5300, 1GB
Chipset: Intel PM965
Graphic Card: ATI Mobility Radeon HD2600 XT (256MB)
Sound Card: HD Audio, Realtek ALC855
Harddisk: 300GB, IDE
Optical drive: DVD Writer Matshita (DVD±R 4x)
Display: 20 inches (1680x1050 pixel)
Dimension: 46,9 x 48,5 x 18,9 cm
Weight: 9,1 kg
Feature: WiFi, Bluetooh, IR, USB (3 port), FireWire (2 port), Gigabit Ethernet, Keyboard, Mouse, Apple Remote
Operating System: Macintosh OS X Leopard

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BenQ Joybook Q41 Review: More Complete “Windows”

2008-06-01T22:47:00.000-07:00

"Let's The Best Of What's Inside, Out". That is the sentence applied by BenQ to descript their newest notebook, Joybook Q41. The description of course felt proper with notebook ability presents the information though in closed condition.

This thing can be done because the existence of 2,5 inchs SideShow screen residing in up side of Joybook Q41. This screen can present various application, presents photo in slide-show form, and play your favorite song. All abilities can be done even notebook in closed and off condition; alike concept of two screen in clamshell phone.

BenQ of course is not the firstly notebook that figures in SlideShow facility because Asus has done similar thing in W5Fe. But according to BenQ, Joybook Q41 is supplied by more support application. For example, the VoIP (bases on Skype) application enabling you to call your friend uses internet line. There is also the RSS Feed Viewer application which will show newest news from various world sites. For the busy one, SideShow screen also enables you to access contact, schedule, even presentation material. Its point is you still connected to digital world even notebook in closed or off condition.

Joybook Q41 itself is a 14,1 inches notebook with weight 2,12 kg (without battery). This Notebook equipped with typical technology of BenQ like Ultra Vivid screen technology which promised will yield high brightness level and picture sharpness. The processor applied is Intel Core 2 Duo (depends on model) and SiS Mirage 3+ graphic card.

BenQ Joybook Q41 Review
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Moto Q 9h Review: No WiFi

2008-06-01T22:24:00.000-07:00

Receives many inputs from its loyal user, Motorola does a number of changes at Moto Q 9h. The transform looks clearly at keyboard that is at shortcut button row in bottom line. Successively from left to right is Calendar, Contacts, Windows Media, Camera, and Voice Recognition button. People say this based on survey about what most used application in a PDAPhone.

Other shortcut button resided exactly under the screen; Internet Explorer button in left end and Messaging button in right. Both is flanking left and right menu button. This differed from Moto Q which under its screen there's only 2 button; left and right menu. But the next line is the same: Home and Clear button flanks the navigation; and also Call and End Call button in both ends. Navigation is only function to point menu.

One thing that is interesting enough is existence of light sensor that is automatically arranges the level of screen Backlight (and keyboard) according to condition of area. This feature can be activated from Smart Backlight setting in Power Management. Furthermore, screen and keyboard will shine more bright when device applied at dark condition. In the end, this feature is helping enough to economize the battery power.

Even runs in 3,5G network, this device can’t be use for video call. This series likely is addressed for data communication. But surprisingly, WiFi is eliminated from Moto Q 9h. Internal memory capacity is big enough, and can be added more with MicroSD slot. USB micro port applied for headset, data cable and also charger cable switch. Bluetooth supports A2DP and AVRCP so that we can be listen clear audio from Bluetooth headset.

For the system side, Motorola mentions there are default addition for e-mail mailbox besides Hotmail. At demo unit which we received coincidently there's only Yahoo. Motorola tells that at official unit there will be also AOL, Gmail, and others. In device is also added McAfee VirusScan and Yahoo Go.

Voice Recognition can be used to command the device to execute an application by voice order. For example, call someone by only mentioning its name. Whereas the Encryption feature is also able to encrypt file that saved in addition memory card.

As bases on Windows Mobile 6 device, of course the support for enterprise work is more and more needed. For example, new Contacts data can be tuned as Outlook Contact. Active Sync is also easy to synchronize with server which base on Microsoft Exchange.

As a whole, likely there is no significant improvement at Moto Q 9h compared to Moto Q. What surprises, WiFi facility is removed from this gadget. But with keyboard and wide screen, easy shortcut button, and class application, makes Moto Q 9h is suitable for serious businessman.

Moto Q 9h Review
Price range:
Specs:
- Display: TFT, 65K colors , 320 x 240 pixel, 1,4 inches
- Camera: 2.0 MP
- Messaging: SMS, EMS, E-mail
- Memory: Flash ROM 256MB, RAM 96MB
- External memory: MicroSD (until 2GB)
- Connectivity: Data cable, Bluetooth (A2DP, AVRCP)
- Internet connectivity: GPRS, EDGE, 3,5G
- Processor: TI OMAP 2420
- Network: GSM quadband, UMTS 2100, HSDPA
- Dimension: 11,8 x 6,7 x 1,18 cm
- Weight: 125 g
- Battery: Lithium ion 3.7V seri BT60
- Application: Yahoo Go, opera, Voices Notes, Connection Sharing, McAfee VirusScan, Document To Go, Master Clear, Master Reset, Memory Manager, BT PC Remote
- Sistem operasi: Windows Mobile 6 Standard
- Standby time: 480 hours
- Talk time: 260 minutes

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Palm Treo 755p Review: Back to Palm OS

2008-05-27T07:53:00.000-07:00

As a handset producer, Palm is known as company that is serious enough. Besides producing handset, the company at the same time is also creates Operating System (OS) for its products. Compares to other producer, what doesn't produce OS itself, on the contrary the hardware is comes from other producer.

Which Palm does of course is a good value. The most important is synchronization between operating system with hardware. For example, in creation process of operating system, the people at R&D (Research & Development) will think twice in making an OS.

In the result, peripheral performance will become far better. Hence didn't surprise when many Palm consumers which before is only ordinary user becomes fans and joints with Palm community. One of the reasons is its use which easier compared to another smartphone OS.

But, at some new products, the producer is prefer to holds mutually Microsoft to planted Windows Mobile in some Palm devices, especially Treo. Like at Palm Treo 750v. This product is first Palm device which operating with Windows Mobile OS. Henceforth, Treo 75x series (750v and 750) always present with WM label. But for the Palm OS fans, especially which already love the Treo 75x series thus thinks twice to buy the peripheral.

Hence present Palm Treo 755p. From the appearance, only a few difference with 750. The difference is only looks at softkey buttons only. But in the inside, many features are improved. Surely the fans which long to wait of Treo 75x in Palm OS version is will not disappointed. The new thing at 755p for example is pixel amounts at touchscreen which boosted up to become 320x320 pixel. Moreover, the processor now applies 312 MHz Intel Xscale.

Unfortunately, 755p is lack of voice dialing feature. The information we have, at 755p which run in Sprint network is equipped with trial version application of Nuance's Voice Control.

If you like to travel, 755p is also equipped with Google Maps. This smarthphone have 60 MB for internal capacities, and for the external, there is a miniSD slot (4 GB).

Palm Treo 755p Review
Specs:
Network: CDMA 800/1900 MHZ
Dimension: 59.3 x 113 x 21.3 mm
Weight: 160 grams
Display: TFT 65.000 colors, 320x320 pixel, touchscreen
Camera: 13 MP, 1280x1024 pixel, Automatic light balance, digital zoom (2x), Video capture (352x288 pixel)
Memory: 128 MB RAM, miniSD card slot (support 4 GB), miniSD cards with SDHC support
Feature: CDMA2000 EVDO, 1xRTT and IS95, Bluetooth, 2.5mm headset jack, Polyphonic MIDI & WAV ringtones
Battery: Li-ion
Standby Time: 240 hours
Talk Time: 4,2 hours

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Sony Alpha A700 Review: With 12 megapixel CMOS Sensor

2008-05-27T07:44:00.000-07:00

If at previous series (Sony Alpha A100 and A200) Sony applies CCD light sensor type, at Alpha A700 Sony applies CMOS 12,24 megapixel. This light sensor equipped with image stabilizer mechanism so that felt helps when user want to make a picture with low shutter speed or when using long lens. To ensure the light sensor age, there is anti dust mechanism which can clean light sensor.

Camera frame is so steady because made from aluminum material and wrapped with magnesium alloy. Buttons at camera is also equipped with panel from rubber material as protector from aqueous vapor, dew and also wet air.

But not all is good news. There is a problem with leyns ring compatibility. Remember that Sony is new comer in SLR camera arena. Sony Alpha A700 body can be attached by lens with Minolta type A mounting.

When testing Sony Alpha A700, we get photo record character which having high relative contrast, but can maintain detail / texture in highlight part. Best record detail that we got is at low contrast setting, which combined with low ISO/ASA and RAW format. We are provides with facility in arranging contrast level and also color saturation.

Big enough CMOS light sensor measure is very effective when we try to make a photo in dark condition and without flash lamp. At ISO 1600, photo result is great enough.

Difference of detail record quality is significant enough between JPEG and RAW format. Sharpness, texture or detail is recorded nice at RAW file, but not so good at JPEG format.

Under the bright sunlight lighting, Sony Alpha A700 gives natural color, with red and blue color uppermost saturation. Meanwhile, below lamp lighting, without flash light, and white balance auto setting, photo result tends to having warmness nuance (red). Moreover, every level of light compensation will give different color temperature highlighting.

We choose to apply Adobe RGB color profile because RAW file conversion result is best to get if applies Adobe Camera Raw software. Besides Adobe Camera Raw, RAW file conversion program figured in is Sony Image Data Converter SR version 2.

This camera provides flash lamp and addition flash lamp hotshoe. But its type is not universal, so that not compatible with third party flash lamp. This thing of course lessens flexibility.

Sony Alpha A700 is good enough to fulfilling serious photographer and professional requirement which requiring detail and color record quality.

Sony Alpha A700 Review
Specs:
Resolution (pixel): 13,05 megapixel (total), 12,24 megapixel (effective).
Photo resolution (min/max): 2128x1424 / 4288x2856 pixel (RAW)
Record media: Compact Flash type I/II, Memory Stick Duo / Pro Duo
File format (photo/video/audio): RAW, Compressed RAW, RAW + JPEG, JPEG
Measure: 23,5 x 156 mm
ISO/ASA: 100 - 6400
Shutter speed: 30 seconds - 1/8000 seconds, Bulb
Viewfinder: Yes
Diagonal LCD : 3.0", 920.000 pixel, equipped with anti-reflective coating.
Connection: HDMI output, Composite audio/video output, USB, Remote control
Battery: Li-ion rechargeable,1650 mAh
Dimension: 141,7 x 104,8 x 79,7 mm
Weight: 690 grams (without battery), 768 grams (with battery)

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Nokia N82 Review: Great Camera Phone

2008-05-19T00:10:00.000-07:00

To answering the challenge of competitors which launch 5 MP camera phone, Nokia launch its best camera phone, N82. We believe that this phone is direct competitor of Sony Ericsson K850i. It has same form (candybar), same camera resolution (5 MP).

N82 is not a Nokia first phone which carrying 5 MP camera, before there are N95. But N95 was not majored as a product which focusing in camera phone class, but multimedia. And even photo quality of N95 can be said very good, do not mean N82 camera facility similar to N95. There are some changes done by Nokia to increase the quality of camera in N82.

N82 has candybar design with futuristic touch. Aluminum material choice in front and plastic at back strengthens this thing. If it look in a flash, N82 body has shapes which similar to N77. I surprise enough with this phone weight, even its body big but light on-hand.

From design side, N82 is focus at its camera facility. You can see it from its buttons like navigation, softkeys and alphanumeric, all made to supports the comfort when using camera. While for phone and messaging activity, N82 is not so great.

N82 provides various features to enjoy. From entertainment feature, like camera, game, FM radio, music and video player to serious feature, like messaging, WiFi, HSDPA, GPS and office document viewer, all in once in this phone.

About GPS feature, Nokia has plant two navigation technologies at the same time in N82 that is bases on satellite GPS and A-GPS with bases on satellite navigation system and operator service.

N82 also has TV out facility, motion sensor (applicable for some menus only), USB micro slot and 3,5 mm jack audio. For operating system N82 carries Symbian 9.2, S60 v3.1. All N82 feature performance will be supported by ARM11 332 MHz processor with ROM 256 MB and RAM 128 MB memory. For the storage is provided internal memory 90 MB and MicroSD card slot.

Like I have mentioned above, about the design, N82 is more suitable when applied in camera mode. At landscape position the button location is so easy to reach by hand. Including it navigation and softkeys button.

At test, I do not make manual setting, all in automatic setting, including the arrangement of white balance and ISO. The result is so great, picture is come up beautifully. Generally, the photo result is similar with photo result of N95. The presence of Xenon flash lamp is increases the photo quality in low light condition. This flash lamp is not focused in one points, but spreading. In the result, overall detail of photo color is seen proportional.
Presence of N82 is not merely as candybar version of N95. Nokia serious to placing N82 as real camera phone by doing some developments which proven can boost this camera phone ability.

N82 greatness is limited in camera only. With technology like HSDPA, WiFi and GPS, N82 is most complete camera phone in its class.

Nokia N82 Review
Specs:
Network: GSM 850/900/1800/1900 MHz
Dimension: 112 x 50,2 x 17,3 mm
Weight: 114 grams
Display: TFT 16.000.000 colours, 240 x 320 pixel, 2,4 inch
Camera: 5 MP, 2592 x 1944 pixel, Auto focus, Xenon flash lamp, Carl Zeiss optic, video recording (30 fps), VGA video call camera
Memory: 90 MB (Internal), Micro SD Card slot
Fitur: HSDPA, WiFi 802.11 b/g, EDGE, GPRS, HSCSD, WAP 2.0/xHTML browser, HTML browser, Bluetooth v2.0 dengan A2DP, slot micro USB, SMS, MMS, Email, Instant Messaging, Built in GPS receiver, A-GPS, Nokia Maps, N-Gage game, Java MIDP 2.0, Musik dan video player, Radio FM, TV out put, 3,5 mm jack audio, office document viewer, Motion sensor dengan UI rotate, Built in handsfree, Organizer, Voice dial
Battery: Lithium Ion 1050 mAh
Standby Time: 225 hours
Talk Time: 4 hour 20 minutes

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Sony Ericsson Z320i Review: Nice Clamshell, Good Price

2008-05-19T00:05:00.000-07:00

Clamshell phones Z series from Sony Ericsson known has beautiful design. Happily, Sony Ericsson is not only destines this class just for luxurious phone. Cheap phone also can be made by this style and class. And this is proven from Sony Ericsson Z320i which successfully rolling with luxurious phone appearance.

This Sony Ericsson clamshell phone had simple design which but still eye-catching. Different from years before, Sony Ericsson didn't play again with circle antenna in its clamshell phone.

What are become sells value from this phone display side is the existence of black list in the middle of body which is functioning as place of four indicator icons which will blaze if there are a message, phone call, missed call and activates of silent mode.

Moreover, there is also available a GPRS, so for internet browsing and download can be done. True tone or wallpaper can be search easily to enhance this phone contents. This phone screen specification itself only CSTN 65.000 colors.

With the existence of Java MIDP, we can also downloading game or Java application. But don’t forget about limited memory capacity. Transfer your photo to PC. So that your phone still has enough memory.

For clamshell phone in cheap class, this Sony Ericsson Z320i can be the good choice. Its simple design but nice perhaps more exceeded as sell value compared to its standard feature. Usage of indicator icon as gimmick and at the same time as cosmetic also more and more strengthens this phone sell value. Cheap price, good looking and famous brand become good point to attract the “practical user” which only uses a phone to make a call and SMS only.

Sony Ericsson Z320i Review
Specs;
Network: GSM 900/1800/1900 MHz
Dimension: 87 x 47 x 20 mm
Weight: 90 grams
Display: CSTN, 65.000 colours, 128 x 128 pixel
Camera: 1,3 MP, 1280 x 1024 pixel, video
Memory: 12 MB (internal)
Feature: GPRS, WAP 2.0/HTML (NetFront), Java MIDP 2.0, Infrared, USB, SMS, MMS, Email, Game, Organizer, T9, Voice Memo
Battery: Li-ion
Standby Time: 300 hour
Talk Time: 7 hour

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Palm Treo 500v Review: Dynamic Design

2008-05-18T23:56:00.000-07:00

Palm is still exists. Palm still trying to hold on in phone business. But, likely Palm feels if their operating system is less compatibly to common market. Hence, Palm phone product release recently uses Windows operating system. So also with Palm Treo 500v. Palm launches this phone with the newest operating system, Windows Mobile 6.0. Moreover, its interface system is also unique, unlike with other Windows bases on smartphone.

Phone Palm Treo 500v has not far different design from Palm Treo 750v version. Its button arrangement is almost look like and this phone also has dynamic circle sides. The difference is only at the dimension form. Palm Treo 500v has slimmer shape and has lighter weight from Palm Treo 750v. This thing makes this phone thus easier when grasped.

Palm Treo 500v also has fineness at its QWERTY buttons softness. Keyboard in this phone must have good quality, because there is no touch screen facility in this phone. The button is comfortably, not undersize and not too big. Available shortcut in the front of phone is also comfort to use. It’s wide, thus easy to press on.

This light Phone Palm (the weight is 120 grams) has two alternative of color, Glacier White and Charcoal Grey. But its color set is simple and giving enough elegant impression. Hardly suitable for whom is looking a simple design phone.

Interesting menu coming up in this phone doesn't bother phone performance as a whole. With menu like that, Palm Treo 500v still runs great. Its menu is also easier the usage. But, maybe it’s not well-matched for user which has been familiar to Windows classic menu. With menu like this it is possible that available function become less detail.

Palm Treo 500v uses 32bit Intel XScale PXA270 and 315 MHz processor. Strong enough for a phone which doesn’t has so many features. For your info, this phone only provides 2 MP resolutions. The photo result is surely not so special.

Palm Treo 500v of course none a class one phone. The technology is felt sophisticated if this phone launched last year. Even its UMTS technology is great enough. The menu is also easy to use. Everyone can use this phone easily.

Palm Treo 500v Review
Specs:
Network: UMTS/GSM 900/1800/1900
Dimension: 110 x 61,5 x 16,5 mm
Weight: 120 grams
Display: TFT, 65.000 colours, 320 x 240 pixel
Camera: 2 MP, 1600 x 1200 pixel
Memory: 150 MB (internal), microSD slot
Facility: 3G, GPRS class 10, WAP 2.0, USB 2.0, Bluetooth, Java MIDP 2.0, polyphonic-mp3 ringtone, Clock Alarm, Calculator, expense manager, Windows Media Player 10, SMS, MMS, Email, T9, and Organizer
Battery: Standard battery, Li
Standby Time: 240 hours
Talk Time: 4,5 hours

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LG 50PY3D Review: Not Perfect, but a Pleasing Plasma

2008-05-11T21:45:00.000-07:00

The first 50-inch plasma television from LG to feature a 1080p-resolution screen, the 50PY3D turned in mixed performance on my lab tests, but I found its picture quality to be very pleasing once properly configured.

The main problem is with standard-definition (SD) video sources; quality depends on which of the TV's several picture mode presets is used. Some modes overly soften fine details, while others deliver some of the best SD video processing I've seen.

The glossy black frame incorporates a couple of slick design touches, including a display centered along the bottom edge that shows which video input is selected or which channel is currently tuned. Immediately to the right of the display is a set of touch-sensitive controls that are visible only when in use; they are stylish but proved to be a magnet for fingerprints. Integrated side-mounted speakers give the set a wide stance for a 50-inch screen. The crescent-shaped swivel stand provides 40 degrees of travel (20 degrees both left and right).

The 50PY3D offers a native screen resolution of 1,920 by 1,080 pixels progressively scanned (1080p). Overscan is an issue, though; the set expands the picture a bit too much and loses some of the viewable image along the edges. All the HD component video sources sacrificed 6.5 percent of the video picture regardless of menu setting, and SD video was overscanned by 7.5 percent-ideally, this shouldn't exceed 1 or 2 percent.

Like all HDTVs, the 50PY3D provides several picture presets that can be used to optimize picture quality easily for varying room environments. The set's "mild" picture preset came closest to matching standards used in broadcast TV and cinema production. I found its colors slightly oversaturated, but uniformly so. This preset negatively affected standard-definition (SD) picture quality by softening the picture so much that fine details were lost. This problem was less severe with HD video sources, but here I found that objects with curved edges were prone to jagged-edge artifacts.

The set, however, easily handled two scenarios that have historically been challenging for plasma sets: displaying fine color gradients without introducing banding artifacts, and minimizing the appearance of video noise in extremely dark scenes.

The LG 50PY3D doesn’t produce the brightest whites or the darkest black levels, but it does offer some of the best SD video processing I’ve seen from an HDTV-if you can forgive the overscan. With the lights dimmed low and an HD movie rolling, the set's detailed picture and room-filling sound may well wake you to forget its few flaws.

LG 50PY3D Review
Price range: $2,999.95
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Altec Lansing T612 Review: Finally, a Dock for the iPhone

2008-05-11T21:33:00.000-07:00

Altec Lansing’s latest speaker dock doesn’t look particularly innovative- in fact, it closely resembles the company's two-year-old M602. What makes this set special is that it's the first model to play nice with Apple's iPhone.

Until now, iPhone users have had to put the handset into “Airplane mode” when using a speaker dock, rendering the device’s phone abilities useless. This is because the phone gives off a distracting GSM buzz (caused by the cellular modem’s regularly reaching out to the network), which diminishes the music listening experience. The T612 fixes this problem and is certified by Apple with the "Works with iPhone" logo. (It will also work with a plain old iPod.) You can dial and receive calls when the iPhone is docked and playing music-the music will stop for you call. But you do have to pick the phone up to tak, since there's no speakerphone support here.

The T612’s audio performance is fine at medium-to-low volumes but is hampered by low-end distortional higher levels, so you can forget about using it for your next full-scale dance party. Since there’s no TV-out either, you can’t connect it to your television for video watching. At just $200, though it maybe the perfect small-space speaker solution for iPhone users.

Altec Lansing T612 Review
Price range: $200
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Helio Mysto Review: Slick Slider Doesn’t Do Photos or Video Well

2008-05-11T21:18:00.000-07:00

A follow-up to Helio's excellent Drift handset, this svelte cell retains its predecessor's capable built-in CPS radio, robust software bundle, and slim profile. Just don’t expect much from this phones camera or its video playback abilities.

Weighing just 3.3 ounces, the Mysto is light and compact. Sliding the screen upward reveals a well-spaced, comfortable numeric keypad. Like all Helio phones, the Mysto works over Sprint's voice network. Call quality was fine, but I ran into some audio dropouts in testing. The handset supports fast 3G networks, which is a big help when you are surfing or streaming video

Unfortunately, video looks awful. Even though I could watch an MPEG-4 version of Casino Royale in its native 320-by-240 resolution, it played at an unacceptable 2 frames per second.

The music player fared much better. It handled MP3 and unprotected AAC tracks at a wide variety of bit rates, although it couldn’t recognize some WMA files I tried. Using the included wired stereo earbuds-and-mic combo, I heard surprisingly detailed sound. Sadly, the 2-megapixel camera took blurry, washed-out, unusable photos.

It's a good choice for Helio fans who want a good-looking phone that doubles as an MP3 player, but the Mysto isn't enough to bring me over from another carrier.

Helio Mysto Review
Price range: $149
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Slacker Portable Review: Web Radio Anywhere

2008-05-08T18:26:00.000-07:00

The idea behind Slacker Internet radio is pretty cool: Tell the free service the kind of music you like and it will introduce you to similar new artists. And the Slacker Portable player lets you take all this musical goodness with you. The device uses Wi-Fi (or a plain old USB connection to your PC) to load customized "channels” that you create online and refreshes them with new tunes every time the device connects to a network.

An excellent concept, but the player is bulky, and it's hindered by buggy, unintuitive software and an unreliable touch-strip controller, which had me unintentionally pausing songs, switching stations, or skipping tunes many times during testing. Luckily you can disable it and use the scroll wheel instead.

Three flash memory capacities are available: 2GB, 4GB, and 8G. You can also add your own MP3 and WMA files, but most of the storage is reserved for Slacker files (AAC Pro V2). The device doesn't play videos or display photos, though the huge 4-inch, 480-by-272-pixel LCD is reserved for my favorite feature: perusing artist bios.

Shortcomings aside, listening to your customized stations on the go is a blast. It combines the surprise and discovery of radio listening with the ability to refine each station as you listen. Unfortunately, the player’s many flaws mean that only patient early adopters should tune in.

Slacker Portable Review
Price range: $250 list (2GB)
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V7 NAV740 GPS Navigation Review: Multisegment Routing

2008-05-08T18:16:00.000-07:00

The $299.95 NAV740 from newcomer V7 is not only our favorite of the bunch, it's also the lightest (7.1 ounces) and the thinnest (at 0.8 inches), yet at still packs in a ton of features, including a high quality receiver based on the excellent SiRFstarIII chip, an enormous POI database, multimedia player, and advanced navigation options.

Featuring a 4.3-inch (480-by-272-pixel) WQVGA display, the NAV740 comes with a 2GB SD card preloaded with Tele Atlas maps for all 50 states and Puerto Rico. The P01database in the NAV740 contains a generous 11 million entries-easily the largest at this price point. The multimedia player supports a wide variety of video, audio and photo formats. Conveniently, the device accepts SDHC cards up to 16GB. V7 markets a very similar version with a 3.5-inch screen, the $200 NAV730, which comes with a 1GB SD card that holds one million POIs.

The NAV740 does a good job of handling POIs. Each top-level category has subcategories to refine your search, or you can search all by name. The shopping subcategories also include 278 branded retail outlets. You have the option of searching around an address, the current GPS location, cursor position, a point in your history list, or around GPS coordinates. In addition, you can select an entire category or subcategory to display on the map view.

Text-to-speech support, multisegment routing, route optimization, and route simulation round out the features. The NAV740 is easily one of the most talented PNDs available at this price point.

V7 NAV740 GPS Navigation Review
Price range: 299.95
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Canon PowerShot SD1100 IS Review: Capable Shooter Can’t Match Its Predecessor

2008-05-08T18:02:00.000-07:00

An updated version of our current Editors’ Choice winning SD1000, the 8-megapixel Canon PowerShot SD11000 IS offers a better LCD, adds image stabilization, and has a curvier body that comes in five fun colors. Alas, it can't surpass the excellent SD1000, which has a wider wide-angle lens and produces sharper images.

Besides adding image stabilization in the SD1100 IS, Canon has introduced motion-detection technology. If the camera picks up motion in a frame, it automatically adjusts the ISO and exposure levels to compensate. Both these features worked well on my tests. The camera also exceeded my expectations by producing good- to excellent-quality shots at ISO settings up to 800 with very little noise. Noise typically creeps in at around ISO 400. In flash shots, images that the SD1100 IS captured were not as uniform as those of the SD1000, and some were underexposed. Daylight shots, however, were exceptional, registering bright and vivid colors.

The camera's 2.5-inch LCD has an impressive antireflective coating-one of the best I've seen, in fact. Even in direct sunlight, it was easy to read.

While it doesn’t edge past its first-rate predecessor, the SD1100 IS is a cool-looking, capable camera that’s sure to please snapshooters who don't need manual control or an extreme wide-angle lens.

Canon PowerShot SD1100 IS Review
Price range: $249.95
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Pharos Drive GPS 250 Review: Budget GPS with Premium Feature

2008-05-08T17:47:00.000-07:00

This budget-priced GPS from Pharos is a bargain, yet it hardly seems like an entry-level model. It has many of the features found in premium, higher priced personal navigators, including a 4.3-inch widescreen display, a sensitive, top-notch satellite receiver, and text-to-speed conversion, which enables the device to speak street names. Still, as you might expect, the 7.3-ounce Drive GPS 250 isn’t completely without limitations: You get only a small number Of POIs and support for just two languages (English and French).

Navteq maps for the U.S. (including Hawaii and Alaska) and Canada and a one –million-entry POI database are preloaded on a supplied 1GB SD card. Though there is an external SD card slot, it’s not meant to be opened. In order to take out the card, you have to remove a nearly impossible-to-replace metal cover and break a seal that voids your warranty. The device comes with a stylus, which stores neatly inside the case.

With a simple-to-use menu system, the Drive GPS 250 offers a cool Map Browsing mode, which lets you scroll a map by touch. I especially like that when you touch the screen in both Map Browsing and Map View modes, the address of the point you touch is displayed. You then have the option of adding it to your favorites or navigating to it.

During standard route-calculation tests, the Drive GPS 250 took approximately 12 seconds to plot a trip to a destination 12 miles away in Brooklyn. Finding its way to a destination 640 miles away in Ohio required 21 seconds. Route recalculation time after a missed turn was acceptably speedy.

Although it lacks media players, a Bluetooth phone interface, and can't get real-time traffic updates, the Drive GPS 250 does have text-to speech functionality, a feature not always found in budget models. If you're looking for a basic, wallet-friendly, widescreen GPS, the Pharos Drive GPS 250 is a solid choice.

Pharos Drive GPS 250 Review
Price range: $299.99
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Cobra Nav ONE 5000 Review: Large and Easy-to-Read

2008-05-04T20:15:00.000-07:00

With its sprawling 5-inch easy-to-read 4:3 format display, the Nav One 5000 from Cobra is a sight for sore, road-weary eyes.

This text-to-speech-capable GPS can help you sidestep tickets with its built-in database of traffic light and speed-camera locations, which is a godsend if you've got a lead foot. There's also a seven-million-entry POI database, which contains more than 600 retail brands so that you can find your way, for example, to the closest Starbucks or Best Buy. Another helpful feature: You can also plot and compare routes to the same destination, based on different preferences, side by side.

Designed to work in your car under extreme weather conditions, the Nav ONE 5000 has the widest operating temperature range (-4º F to 158 º F) of any brand of GPS on the market. In testing, the device performed well on both local routes and on a 650-mile trip.

While the Nav ONE 5000 offers plenty of features, its large screen means it's big and heavy (9.5 ounces), and its Bluetooth hands-free phone interface could use some improvement. But if you're in the market for an affordable, easy-to-use CPS with a screen that your eyes will have no problem with, the Nav ONE 5000 is worth a look

Cobra Nav ONE 5000 Review
Price range: $350

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Epson Stylus Photo R1900 Review: Shutterbug’s Delight

2008-05-04T20:06:00.000-07:00

Things that a serious photographer would look for in a photo printer might include large-format output, fast printing speed, a good price, and gorgeous, long-lasting prints. The Epson Stylus Photo R1900 delivers on all of these. It's a near-perfect choice for avid amateurs or professionals on a budget-if you can get over one little glitch.

The R1900 can print photos at sizes up to 13 by 44 inches, on a variety of standard and art papers. Its prints (especially in monochrome) were magnificent. It took a respectable 56 seconds for each 4-by-6 on our tests and 1:43 for each 8-by-10. It's optimized for glossy printing, and uses vibrant and durable pigment inks (seven ink colors plus a gloss optimizer cartridge). Epson claims a print lifetime of 300 years in an album and 200 years framed behind glass.

Its frequent paper jams in manual feed, compounded by incorrect recovery instructions, were a headache. Yet if you're looking for a printer to speedily output gorgeous, large-format prints that should last for generations, the R1900 should head your short list.

Epson Stylus Photo R1900 Review
Price range: $549

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Gateway FX7020 Review: Junior 3D Gaming Rig

2008-05-04T19:43:00.000-07:00

It doesn't take a fortune to get one’s feet wet at 3D gaming. Smaller companies like Cyberpower and Velocity Micro have been selling gaming-class desktops for about $1,000 for some time. Now Gateway is doing the same with the FX7020, a $1,100 quad-core rig that you can find at select retailers. Although it won't give you blazing frame rates on the latest, graphics-happy DX10 games, it will at least let you play them, and it does well on DX9 games at any resolution.

The FX7020 packs a 2.3-GHz quad-core AMD Phenom processor, the first use we've seen of that chip. The nVidia GeForce 8800 GT is a good midlevel graphics card. A 500GB SATA hard drive and a dual-layer DVD burner with Labelflash labelburning technology (similar to HP’s LightScribe) round out the hardware. It does have some cool media features, such as a 15-in-1 card reader, an integrated IR receiver paired with a Media Center remote, and a built-in HDTV tuner. Another nice perk is the 1GB of online storage-free forever!

The system comes with major bloat ware. Worse still, it has only one PCIe x16 slot, so you can't upgrade to a dual-card SLI configuration should you outgrow the single card's limited, though solid, performance. Although it did fine on older games, its frame rates were pokey with the latest DX10 games, especially at higher resolutions. (Crysis at 1,920 by 1,200 looked almost like a slide show at 7 fps)

The comparable Dell XPS 630 costs $170 more, but it’s upgradeable to either an SLI or a CrossFire dual-card array. When you buy from Dell, though, you have to wait for the techs to assemble and ship your system. Pick up the Gateway FX7020 at your local Best Buy and you can start fragging today.

Gateway FX7020 Review
Price range: $1,100
Specs:
2.3-GHz AMD Phenom 9600 processor
2GB 667-MHz DDR2 SDRAM
500GB 7,200 rpm SATA hard drive
512MB nVidia GeForce 8800GTgraphic card
dual-layer DVD±RWdrive
six USB 2.0 ports
Windows Vista Home Premium

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Eurocom LV220C ViiVA Review: A PC in HDTV Clothing

2008-05-04T19:30:00.000-07:00

The “PC in a TV’ concept isn’t new – Sony’s VAIO LT line has made an art of housing a multimedia rig in an HDTV casing. Eurocom has countered with the LV220C ViiVA, an all-in-one PC in a 22-inch widescreen frame that looks outstanding in a living room or office. Though a fine effort, it doesn't provide the oomph or the extras to match the Sony all-in-ones, and it's pricier, to boot.

With the LV220C, video is front and center. It has a tuner plus an MCE remote that supports analog cable and digital over-the-air (OTA) HDTV, as well as unscrambled digital cable channels. (You can use it without a cable box if your provider doesn’t scramble the signals.) Because the LV220C lacks component video or HDMI inputs, you can’t use an external cable or satellite box, or an external high-def Player with it. Our test unit came with a DVD burner that has LightScribe disc labeling, though Eurocom also offers HD optical disc drives.

The system packs a 2.66-GHz Intel Core 2 Duo E6700 CPU. The LV220C did well on our Windows Media Encoder test and aced our Photoshop CS3 test in a zippy 32 seconds. Its notebook-class nVidia Go 7600 graphics aren’t up to much 3D gaming, though.

The LV220C's user-serviceable chassis can accept a pair of hard drives. Ours came with a 320GB drive, but the bays can hold up to 2TB between them. If the drives are identical, you can configure them as RAID 0 (for speed and capacity) or RAID 1 (for data safety). You get 2GB of RAM, and there’s an empty slot for another 2GB.

Although the LV220C is a good choice, check out its rivals before buying. Comparable Sony LT systems sell for less, and they offer far more hardware for just a little bit more.

Eurocom LV220C ViiVA Review
Price range: $3,176 direct
Specs:
- 2.66-GHz Intel Core 2 Duo E6700
- 2GB 667-MHz DDR2 SDRAM
- 320GB 7,200-rpm SATA hard drive
- 256MB nVidia GeForce Go 7600 graphics card
- Dual-layer DVD±RW drive
- Integrated 22-inch widescreen LCD monitor
- Four USB 2.0 ports
- One FireWire port
- One eSATA port
- integrated stereo speakers
- Windows Vista Ultimate

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MetaGeek WiSpy 2.4x Review: Affordable Price

2008-05-01T01:22:00.000-07:00

IT generalists caring for wireless networks need an easy-to-use and low-cost spectrum analyzer, and they'll be pleased to find that the MetaGeek WiSpy 2.4x delivers exactly that. The device doesn’t operate in the 5-GHz band, but the vast majority of home and SMB networks still run at 2.4 GHz.

This latest version of the WiSpy is a small, slightly customizable (you can adjust the antenna position) USB wireless device coupled with sophisticated analysis software. Chanalyzer 2.1 is a solid bit of code, but the action is with Chanalyzer 3.0, currently in beta 5. This updated package uses smart UI design, so even wireless novices can easily identify surrounding wireless signals, their strength, and their sources. The software is capable of recording analysis sessions. You can then e-mail the recording to colleagues who also use Chanalyzer, or you can upload it to MetaGeek's site for help from the user community. Note, however, that the 3.0 beta requires a Windows machine running .Net 2.0 or later.

The WiSpy 2.4x kit is a smart bit of engineering that gives generalists just the tools they need at a reasonable price rather than the vast array of analysis and diagnostic tools-accompanied by a price many times that of the WiSpy - found in enterprise level spectrum analyzers. I’d like to see 5-GHz capability soon (the company says it's working on it), but despite its absence, this is a solid addition to your network management toolkit.

MetaGeek WiSpy 2.4x Review
Price range: $399 direct
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Acer P243W Review: Terrific for Text

2008-05-01T01:11:00.000-07:00

Would you sacrifice basic multimedia features for crisp, bright images and excellent text display? That's the question the Acer P243W raises. This elegant monitor also boasts an HDMI port, but it suffers from a few minor performance issues.

The 24-inch LCD has a native resolution of 1,920 by 1,200 pixels and offers four color-management options optimized for graphics, text, standard, and movie viewing. With its 3,000:1 contrast ratio and 400-cd/m² rating, the P243W is one bright monitor. I was pleased with its performance, particularly when it came to color quality and displaying small fonts, though the panel did have trouble with very fight shades of gray. DVD movies and 3D-intensive games looked fantastic, but the unit didn’t fare so well on viewing-angle performance.

Though I was pleased to see that an HDMI port is included, along with the standard analog and DVI ports, I would have liked more in the way of multimedia features. DVI and analog cables are included in the box, but unfortunately you’ll have to purchase an HDMI cable separately. On the plus side, the display is backed by a three-year parts-and-labor warranty.

The P243W may be short on entertainment features, but this stylish monitor delivers the goods when it comes to image quality (including video and games) and text reproduction.

Acer P243W Review
Price range: $499.99 list
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SimpleDrive 500GB Portable Hard Drive Review: Sleek, Simple Storage

2008-05-01T00:59:00.000-07:00

It's not often that a hard drive earns points for good looks. The SimpleDrive 500GB Portable Hard Drive designed by Ferrari sports car designer Pininfarina, is a notable exception. Even better, this stylish machine offers a low price per gigabyte, solid performance, and speedy transfers.

The SimpleDrive's 3.5-inch drive spins at 7,200 rpm, has an 8MB cache buffer, and connects to a PC via a USB port. The included software, ArcSoft's TotalMedia Backup & Record (for Windows users) and TotalMedia Backup (for Mac users), is conveniently housed on the drive, so you can load it on any host system.

The software makes full or incremental backups simple. You can schedule backups, add comments to backup sets, and even password-protect them. Unfortunately, the software can't create a full, bootable backup of your operating system, but you can create a disc image and burn that to a CD or DVD. The speedy SimpleDrive can perform a drag-and-drop backup in under a minute, but performance takes a nosedive using the software.

The Simple Drive is covered by a stingy one-year warranty, but you do get toll-free telephone support and a 2GB online storage account. That said, the SimpleDrive is an outstanding value, thanks to its quick transfer rates, elegant design, and attractive price point.

SimpleDrive 500GB Portable Hard Drive Review
Price range: $169.99 list
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Canon Realis X700 Review: The Brightest Money Can Buy

2008-05-01T00:39:00.000-07:00

LCoS (Liquid Crystal on Silicon) projectors have been around for a while now, but they're still not as common as cheaper engines. That may be changing soon, as price comes down and businesses get wind of the fantastic image quality they promise. Our favorite new business projector, the Canon Realis X700, applies this innovation to great effect. If you need an XGA (1,024-by-768) system, this projector is the best you can buy.

LCoS engines avoid the most common image distortions of cheaper DLP and LCD projectors, producing high-quality images with vibrant, saturated colors. The Realis X700’s measured contrast ratio is low, at 130:1, yet it still manages to outshine the competition. The main drawback is cost, although its $2,500 price is actually cheap for this technology.

Setting up the X700 is simple: Connect the appropriate cables, adjust the image size, and either focus manually with the remote or hit the Auto Set button to let the unit correct the setting for you.

The X700 has an impressive number of ports and cables for a business projector. The unit offers analog and digital ports and can connect with your PC, external audio setup, or component video source. It also ships with a soft carrying case and a bundle of cables: a USB cable, an RGB-component video-to-VGA cable, and a VGA-to-DVI cable.

The X700 excelled on our tests, doing surprisingly well at projecting video, which is an unusual advantage for a business projector. I measured the X700's brightness at 2,906 lumens, about 73 percent of the claimed 4,000 lumens. That’s a slightly lower percentage than most projectors deliver, but it's also the brightest projector we’ve tested. The system's one flaw is its virtually useless built-in audio, but that's not shocking for a business projector.

The X700 certainly doesn't come cheap, but if you're in the market for an XGA projector, this is the finest option out there right now for better, brighter images.

Canon Realis X700 Review
$2,500 street
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BenQ Joybook R43 Review: Unique with Competitive Price

2008-04-29T03:43:00.000-07:00

City light beauty becomes the inspiration for BenQ in designing this Joybook R43. If you paid attention, at notebook up side there is combination of line and point pattern.

But this is not an ordinary pattern. Points at the pattern can be blaze, so that when combined with black color which covered notebook, will look like building lamp silhouette at town.

The unique, light power source to turn on the pattern is 'borrows’ screen backlight, so that doesn't require addition power consumption. Besides, its brightness level also depends on brightness setting which we do at notebook screen.

Joybook R43 is BenQ newest notebook for 14,1" class. This notebook has various segments, can be seen from its processor usage variant. Starting from Celeron to Core 2 Duo newest generation (Santa Rosa).

We test Joybook R43 with T7250 (2GHz) processor, 1GB memory, and 150GB harddisk. Price for this notebook is US$ 799 (without operating system), which can be said cheap for as of class notebook.

In fact, there is a reason behind the competitive price. Chipset applied by Joybook R43 is SiS 671DX, non chipset from Intel like the one is applied by other notebook in its class. The usage of chipset is a few influencing the performance.

Can be seen from the 3DMark 2006 result which only 122; not so good compared to notebook which uses Intel GM965 chipset that get scores 381. In other test application is also seen the weakness of Joybook R43 though processor applied by R43 is better.

A notebook standard facility has been available in this notebook, like Wi-Fi a/b/g, Bluetooth, Express Card, card reader, and DVD Writer. But there is no camera facility, so that you must apply separate Webcam to do video conference

After using it in few moments, we satisfy with this notebook design. The physical felt steady, without bothering heat. Its screen seen bright, whereas the speaker felt great when listens to music.

Only one is annoying, that is Ctrl button position which no longer positioned in left under and replaced by Fn button. We often to use Ctrl button when typing, so that disturbing enough when use Ctrl button in the new position.

Is your computing activity using many 3D application like playing game or watch HD Video? If yes, BenQ Joybook R43 is not suitable for you, because its 3D ability is not so good.

But if you do many office applications and internet browsing, this notebook is interesting choice. Not because its design, but also the price which so competitive. As comparison, as of class notebook like Acer Aspire 2920-301G25Mi is sold above US$ 1000. Celeron version from R43 only sold at US$ 569.

BenQ Joybook R43 Review
Price range: US$799
Specs:
Processor: Intel Core 2 Duo T7250 (2GHz, 2MB cache, 800MHz)
RAM: DDR2, 1GB
Chipset: Sis 671FX
Graphic Card: Sis 351 Mirage 128MB
Harddisk: IDE, Hitachi 150GB, 5400rpm
Optical drive: DVD Writer
Feature: Wi-Fi a/b/g, Bluetooth, Card reader, USB (3x), Express Card.
Display: 14,1", 1280x800 pixel
Sound Card: Realtek ALC883
Operation System: Windows Vista Home Premium
Battery: 4800 mAh
Dimension: 33x25,2x3,5-4,4 cm
Weight: 2,3 kgs

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MSI Wind PC: Asus PC 900 Competitor

2008-04-29T03:27:00.000-07:00

Another mini notebook is coming. After Asus and HP, now MSI is join in the club. This Taiwan producer which is more knowledgeable as motherboard producer informed soon will launch a mini notebook with white, blue, silver, and pink color choice.

Its name is MSI Wind PC. Its weight is around 1kg, so that ease and light to brought in hand. Differs from Asus offers, Wind PC will come directly with a 2,5" harddisk (80GB), and not SSD (solid state disc) which its price is still expensive. While for the operating system, MSI figures in Windows XP.

Even its weight is only 1kg, MSI Wind PC equipped with 8,9" LCD screen, or equal with second generation of Eee PC Asus (Asus PC 900), and HP Mini Note 2133. But MSI adds larger screen choice, which is 10". That screens carries resolutions 1024x600 pixel - enough for Internet browsing requirement.

Other facility is 1,3 megapixel Webcam, 7 hours battery, 1GB RAM, and Bluetooth. Keyboard is promised to be equal to keyboard at ‘normal’ notebook. The keyboard not only having good texture but having more wide distance between the buttons, 17,5mm, so its will please the user.

What about the processor? MSI has not said it. However, MSI informed will apply Intel Atom 1GHz - 1,6GHz chip, possibly Diamondville.

MSI Wind PC price is also a mystery. According to some sources, the notebook which will be launched in next June (at Computex exhibition) would launch with the US$ 470 - US$ 1100 price.

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WinFast palmTop TV Review: Watch and Record

2008-04-29T03:15:00.000-07:00

Watching TV program using notebook is pleasing enough. Besides as supporting facilities in a trip, it’s also able to be applied to record your favorite program. WinFast PalmTop TV is presented by offering function and facility that is interesting enough. Applies USB connection as power and data connector, this peripheral doesn’t require additional adaptor so that more practical.

Its physical is like a mouse, and at side part there is a port to transfer video audio. This port figures in an extension cable for requirement of analogue connection that is covering s-video and composite.

As usual this peripheral equipped with bundle application that is PVR application and the video editing application. The PVR application itself is functioning to catch TV signal with interesting facility inside it. Its ability for example is doing recording process from various inputs starts from VCD format to DVD, sleep timer, teletext, automatic scanning, schedule recording, display PiP (picture in picture), snapshot to channel surf. All the functions can be operated easily through shortcut or remote control. The remote control is having thin form of compact enough, but for user with big hand will get tricky when using it. A few regrettably, WinFast PalmTop TV doesn't provide FM tuner function hence automatically is not provided recording audio function. But PVR still able to played audio format.

When plug to notebook or PC, peripheral recognized directly and you just need to enter the CD driver and its support application. Installation automatically will provide special folder for video capture or recording file. Besides is also installed all supporting codec types to playback and also recording process.

WinFast which launch many TV tuner variant this time come up attractive enough. Installation and usage easiness plus PVR application ability becomes the great feature of WinFast PalmTop TV. Its small form of course more addressed for notebook user, even PC user also can apply it.

WinFast PalmTop TV Review
Specs:
Type: External
Interface: USB 2.0
Input system: A/V Input (s-video, composite, audio), TV antenna
Video format: MPEG1, MPEG2, MPEG4, AVI, WMV
Audio format: WAV, MP3, MID
Picture format: JPG, BMP, TIFF, PNG
Compatibility: Windows XP SP2
Bundle software: Ulead Videostudio 9 SE, Ulead DVD MovieFactory 4 SE, Ulead Cool 3D SE, WinFast Movie Pack 1.4
Equipment: - A/V Cable
- USB cable
- Mini remote control
- Warranty card
- Driver CD and video editing software

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Kodak Easyshare V1253 Review: High Definition at Compact Camera

2008-04-29T02:54:00.000-07:00

Main promise of this compact digital camera is the record ability with photo quality 3000x4000 pixel size. This thing clearly seen at camera backside which dominated by 3,1 inches LCD screen with ratio 16:9, typical of High Definition (HD) format. Lens carried by Kodak V1253 nor questionable because made by Scheider Kreuznach Variogon manufacturer, with focal length 35 mm and optical zoom ability of 3x (equivalent with focal length 37-110 mm at 35 mm conventional camera).

This camera equipped with face recognition system. Camera will focusing automatically if there is people face inside the frame and gives ideal lighting. As a whole, photo result in bright day gives good color quality. Kodak V1253 records skin color goodly, although has tendency of cold color at other photo objects.

If you will buy this camera, be ready with big external memory card, because Kodak V1253 only figures in 32 MB internal memory. In our test, we try uses this internal memory to make a picture with high definition photo quality setting. The result, interval time required by camera to ready make a next picture is so long. This interval time decreases when making a picture and records photo into external memory. External memory card type supported by Kodak V1253 is SDHC, MMC, and Secure Digital.

At Kodak V1253 is available image stabilizer feature to avoid camera shake or anticipates moving photo object. Unhappily, this facility works digitally, not mechanically at lens so that in its test not worked maximally. Moving object is also anticipated by boosting up the high ISO setting so that photo pixel becomes more natural.

Even can’t be said compete handycam in the video recording business, Kodak Easyshare V1253 gives great enough video record result in Mov (Quick time) format. Video frame measure is having HD format, and so do the sound record in stereo format because recorded with applies two mikes at front of camera. Be careful when holding this camera to record video, because both microphone positions are easily to be closed by hand.

As a whole, Kodak Easyshare V1253 can give rich color quality and sharp focus. Video record quality in HD format is also can be said good. But this camera is not suitable if applied to make a moving object picture because less maximum image stabilizer ability.

Kodak Easyshare V1253 Review
Specs:
Resolution (pixel): 12,1 Megapixel
Photo resolution (min/max): 1280 x 960 pixel / 4000 x 3000 pixel
Video resolution (min/max): 320 x 240, 30 fps / 1280 x 960 pixel, 30 fps
Record media: SDHC, MMC, SD, Internal memory 32 MB
File format (photo/video): JPEG EXIF v2.21 / Mov Quicktime
Lens focal length (equivalent 35mm camera): 3X Optical zoom (37-111 mm), 5X digital zoom
Aperture (diafragma): f/3.4 – F/5.3
ISO/ASA: 64 – 3200
Shutter Speed: 8 Second – 1/200 second
Micro Focus: 5 cm
View finder: No
LCD Diagonal: 3,1 inches
Connection: USB 2.0, A/V output Dock, Kodak camera/printer dock
Battery: Lithium Ion
Battery charger : Dock, USB cable, AC 5 volt Adapter
Dimension: 101,9 x 54,6 x 23,4 mm
Weight: 155 gram (without battery)

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Sony Cybershot DSC T-70 Review: True Gadget

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Sony Cybershot DSC T-70 Review: True Gadget

2008-04-16T00:41:00.000-07:00

Gadget which interpreted as a device to grasp felt fit attached to Sony Cybershoot T-70 digital camera, because its measure which really can be grasped. The body which made from aluminum alloy material also makes this camera felt steady.

Though optical zoom attached at lens is only 3X, but zooming mechanism designed to take place in camera body, makes this camera so brief and ergonomic. Besides made by famous lens factory of Carl-Zeiss, lens at Sony Cybershot equipped with image stabilizer mechanism which will prevent unfocused picture as the result of camera shake or photo without flash lamp.

Buttons size made to be small, causing a few difficulties for big finger user. This thing so disturbing, for example at the time of user will change lens focal length passed zoom button at top of camera body.

Most of navigation controls based on touch screen. LCD screen measure that is big enough makes touch screen function becomes so ease. Unfortunately, stylus is not available. Protector and stylus must be bought separately.

When we try makes a picture with best photo quality, interval time between shutter button releases pressing with photo recording almost not felt. We tolerate it, remember that Sony Cybershot DSC T-70 powered by Bionz processor which is functioning to quicken photo process and lessens noise at photo.

If at most compact digital camera class pixel is starts look plain and disturbs at ASA/ISO 400, hence at Sony Cybershot T-70 noise starts to stand-out at ASA 800. At bright weather and enough lights, Sony Cybershot gives rich color photo result. Meanwhile, picture quality at low lens focal length mode (small optical zoom number) shows more soft-focus characteristic than picture recorded with big lens focal length mode. As a whole, this camera gives photo result which tending has inclined contrast but richer tonal distribution (dark - bright) compared to other compact digital camera.

This digital camera also figures in face and smile detection facility. Smiling object can trigger photo taking. This facility can be deactivated if not required.

In our record ability test at available light condition, this camera difficult to find focus so that its result often not sharply. In condition like this, fill-in-light is hardly required.

As small size camera, Sony Cybershot DSC T-70 can give good record result. Its ability to minimize noise grain in ISO 400 making it remains great at minimum light condition. So, this camera is well-matched for user which required briefness and handy.

Cybershot DSC T-70 Review
Specs:
Resolution (pixel): 8,286 Megapixel
Photo resolution (min/max): 640 x 480 pixel / 3264 x 2448 pixel
Video resolution (min/max): 320 x 240 pixel, 8,3 fps / 640 x 480 pixel, 30 fps
Record media: Memory Stick Duo, Memory Stick PRO Duo, Memory Stick PRO HG Duo
File format (photo/video): JPEG / MPEG1
Lens focal length (equivalent 35mm camera): 3X Optical zoom (38-114 mm), 6X digital zoom
Aperture (diaphragm): f/3.5 – F/4.3
ISO/ASA: 80 – 3200
Shutter Speed: 1/2 Second – 1/2000 second
Micro Focus: 1cm
View finder: No
LCD Diagonal: 3 inches (16:9)
Connection: USB 2.0, Dock
Battery: Lithium Ion
Battery charger: Yes
Dimension: 90 x 56,4 x 20,7 mm
Weight: 128 gram

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Olympus SP560UZ Review: Supreme Lens

2008-04-16T00:24:00.000-07:00

For compact digital camera class, reach angle from Olympus SP560UZ lens felt special. Can be seen from its 18X optical zoom number which equivalent with lens focal length 27-486 mm at 35 mm camera. This focal length is ideal to record nature panorama, sports photo, or even animal photo.

This focal length number can increase if at lens is attached by tele converter TCON-017 series and ring adapter CLA-10 (optional) and will make lens focal length to reach 826 mm. If it combined with digital zoom feature, hence Olympus SP560UZ will have focal length till 4626 mm. At our test, several times this camera experiences slow focusing process when lens positioned at highest focal length (optical zoom 3X).

To get best photo result, when making a picture of moving object, it is better if you applies Sport/Action photo mode in order to get high shutter speed for balance the camera shaking and freezes object movement. If needed, activates the burst facility at Olympus SP560UZ to record some frame at the same time (15 frames per second) in once shutter release buttons. To anticipate camera shake which can cause blur photo, this camera figures in image stabilizer mechanism which will change light sensor position and powered by TruePic III processor.

One of superior feature at Olympus SP560UZ is Shadow Adjustment. In our test, this feature is functioning well and so helping to correcting shadow at object which out of reach by fill-in-light. Similar function with Shadow Adjustment is Face Detection mode. This function will detect the existence of face people at shoot frame and automatically gives ideal lighting for face. Moreover, Smile Shot photo mode detects smile at the face in shoot frame, then triggers shutter release. However, Olympus SP560UK still having weakness when recording high contrast object. At border part of contrast photo (usually is border line between darks and bright part) there is often a color that disturbing. This thing called as chromatic abrasion. At our test, chromatic abrasion comes up in purple trim lines form.

If you will make a picture with slow shutter speed or even with long lighting time (bulb), we suggest to apply low ISO/ASA style. In our test, photo with long lighting time and high ISO will make pixel becomes harsh so causing TruePic processor to do noise reducing. Picture will become blur and losing the detail.

As a whole, at enough light condition, this camera is good enough to records color.

Olympus SP560UZ gives good enough result. Suitable for user that love to travel and require various record angles like panorama and also significant photo object enlargement.

Olympus SP560UZ Review
Specs:
Resolution (pixel): 8,0 Megapixel
Photo resolution (min/max): 640 x 480 pixel / 3264 x 2448 pixel
Video resolution (min/max): 320 x 240 pixel, 15 fps / 640 x 480 pixel, 30 fps
Record media: - xD Card
- Internal memory 47 MB
File format (photo/video/audio): RAW, JPEG / AVI / WAV
Lens focal length (equivalent 35mm camera): 18X Optical zoom (27-486 mm), 5,6X digital zoom
Aperture (diaphragm): f/2.8 – F/4.5
ISO/ASA: 50 – 3200
Shutter Speed: 1/2 second – 1/2000 second
Macro focus: 1cm (Super macro)
View finder: Yes, with diopter correction facility
LCD Diagonal: 2,5 inches
Connection: USB 2.0
Battery: AA (4X)
Battery charger: Yes
Dimension; 116 x 78,5 x 78 mm
Weight: 365 gram

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HP Pavilion dv2608TX Review: Glossy Pavilion

2008-04-10T04:54:00.000-07:00

Glossy looks of course gives elegant impression at a product. HP also launches their Pavilion series in glossy taste which not only beautiful but also had smart specification that consumers need.

Pavilion dv2608TX is one of dv2000 series which majored by HP as notebook mobile for computing needed. Black piano polish with line pattern makes beautiful the notebook physical as a whole and this pattern used also by other HP “dv” series. Besides design, HP also gives enough features, started from output facility; S-video and VGA, HDMI, card reader, wireless, expansion slot and multimedia.

Multimedia factor looks dominant in Pavilion dv2608TX by adding Altec Lansing speaker along the length of LCD 14,1" below panel. In the result, sound produced of course more energetically if compared to as of class notebook. HP also applies QuickPlay system by providing quick button to access photo, music, and DVD movie. Just need to touching the button hence you can swiftly enjoys the multimedia feature.

To support the performance, Pavilion dv2608TX uses Core 2 Duo T7250 (2GHz) processor which fused with DDR2 1GB memory and GeForce 8400M-GS graphic chip. But for VGA only provided 64MB internal memory because assumed has fulfilled for notebook requirement. WEI notes (Windows Experience Index) from bundled Windows Vista Home Premium reaches 3,5 which meaning its computing is still pertained medium only, not for serious gaming.

Its fair enough to compares the Pavilion dv2608TX ability with Asus F9S which having equivalents enough specification (except F9S uses Core 2 Duo T7500 and 7800mAh battery). Audio-video speed average test is equal enough and only diverse in second calculation only. Big difference only at battery endurance, by relying on 4-cell battery, dv2608TX is exhausted quicker in around 20-40 minutes compared to F9S which using 9-cell. But at least this notebook have been ideal for daily usage, even its weight is felt heavy enough to be brought all day long.

HP Pavilion dv2608TX Review
Price Range: $1399
Specs:
- Processor: Intel Core 2 Duo T7250 (2GHz, 4MB cache, FSB 800Mhz)
- RAM: 1GB, DDR2 PC5300
- Chipset: Intel GM965
- Graphic Card: nVidia GeForce 8400M G
- Harddisk: 160 GB SATA
- Optical Drive: DVD±R DL LightScribe
- Screen: 14,1 inches, 1280x800 pixel
- Soundcard: Connexant CX20549, HD-Audio
- Battery: 4700 mAh
- Dimension: 33,9 x 25,2 x(3,4-4,2) cm
- Weight: 2,48 kg
- Feature: WiFi, Bluetooth, LAN, card reader (5-in-1), USB (2 port), FireWire, Webcam, Express Card, HDMI, VGA-out
- Operation System: Windows Vista Home Premium

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APC UPB80 Review: Backup Battery for Notebook

2008-04-10T04:27:00.000-07:00

Possibly you often live at important situation when notebook is required but in fact the battery power is in dying condition. The solution is undoubtedly with brings backup battery when at outdoor or office. The problem, notebook battery is designed according to certain notebook model, causing became separate problem if you had 2 different notebooks. But APC has the solution. They launch a backup battery product that compatible with various notebooks, Universal Notebook Battery (UPB80).

APC UPB80 is Lithium-ion Polymer battery with dimension 25,5x16,5x1,6 cm which is thin enough to inserted in your notebook bag. This battery offers 80-100 watts output power which can back up notebook power till 8 hours (depends on notebook absorption). It’s very easy to use; just connect this module to notebook port power. In its package has been provided various connectors power for notebook like Acer, Apple, Compaq, Dell, Sony, Toshiba, and others.

Even its easy to use, but user need to pay attention also to the output level for notebook which applied because every notebook of course different. UPB80 provides 6 different output types (15-24 volts) which must be selected manually through available switch. To know the energy status, UPB80 which its weight is less than 800 grams is provides power level indicator, so that can be known the available power capacities. Battery charging time to full condition is quickly enough, only 3,5 hours.

APC UPB80 Review
Price range: $200
Specs:

Output
Battery Output Voltage: 15,16,18,19,20,24
Battery Output Voltage (mAH): 3000 - 4700

Batteries & Runtime
Battery Volt-Amp-Hour Capacity: 88
Battery Type: Lithium Polymer
Battery mounting: Stand alone battery stack
Expected Battery Life (years): 2 – 4

Physical
Net Weight: 0.91 KG
Maximum Height: 254.00 mm
Maximum Width: 165.00 mm
Maximum depth: 15.00 mm
Shipping Weight: 1.05 KG
Shipping Width: 191.00 mm
Shipping Height: 305.00 mm
Shipping Depth: 51.00 mm
Color: Charcoal
Units per Pallet: 144.00

Environmental
Operating Environment: 0 - 40 °C
Operating Relative Humidity: 0 - 95%
Operating Elevation: 0-3000 meters
Storage Temperature: -20 - 50 °C
Storage Relative Humidity: 0 - 95%
Storage Elevation: 0-3000 meters

Conformance
Regulatory Approvals: BSMI,cUL Listed,C-tick,CE,FCC Part 15 Class B,GS Mark,TUV,UL Listed,VCCI
Standard Warranty: 1 year repair or replace

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HP 2133 Mini-Note PC Review: Eee PC another Competitor

2008-04-09T00:01:00.000-07:00

Small laptop markets with cheap price get new participant. Hewlett-Packard Co. (HP), the biggest and in demand personal computer producer (PC) in the world will launch newest mini laptop. The laptop which designed for school student is starts to enter the market next month.

In the presentation yesterday, HP confesses that they will be serious to enter mini laptop business which in advance is dominated by Intel Corp. and Asustek Computer Inc.

"Our newest technology intentionally designed to increase market share in school" said one of HP executive.

According to him, school is the institute that is so needed cheap laptop to increase the quality of education. But, the company which bases in Palo Alto, California, US, affirms that the cheap laptop will not lose important functions. The product which named as Mini-Note will be equipped by sophisticated feature, like the other HP laptop has. Especially for the internet and word processing job.

With 8,9 inches screen measure and weight less than 1,4 kgs, the cheapest Mini-Note series is sold at the price US$ 499 with bases on Linux operating system. Mini-Note will get costlier Windows Vista. Processor speed starts from 1,0 GHz until 1,6 GHz is made by via Technologies, one of famous microprocessor producer in the world.

The feature which absence in Mini-Note, compared to other laptop, is the optical drive for DVD and CD-ROM.

Mini-Note will compete hardly with Classmate from Intel and Eee PC from Asustek. Moreover, with XO laptop made by company from Cambridge, Massachusetts, US, One laptop per Child. Intel sells thousand units of Classmate since launched last year.

HP 2133 Mini-Note PC (KR922UT) Review
Price range: Price: $499.00
Specs:
Operating system: SUSE Linux Enterprise Desktop 10
Processors available: VIA C7-M ULV processor (1.0 GHz, 128 KB L2 cache, 400 MHz FSB)
Memory: 512 MB 667 MHz DDR2 SDRAM
Hard drive: 4 GB Flash Module
Display size: 8.9-inch diagonal WXGA
Graphics: VIA Chrome 9
Integrated camera: VGA camera
Wireless: Broadcom 802.11b/g
Network interface: 10/100/1000 NIC
Weight: 2.8 lb (1.27 kg)
Dimensions: 255 x 165 x 27 mm
Audio: ADI1984HD High Definition CODEC; 24-bit DAC; Integrated stereo speakers; Stereo headphone/line out; Stereo microphone in
Ports:2 USB 2.0, 1 microphone in, 1 headphone/line-out, 1 external VGA monitor, 1 RJ-45, 1 AC power
Slots: 1 Express Card/54, 1 secure digital
Battery: 3-cell (28 WHr) high capacity Lithium-Ion

Other Mini-Note Specs Link

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HP Pavilion TX1209 Review: New Tablet PC from HP

2008-04-08T23:40:00.000-07:00

Do you still remember about Tablet PC? This gadget form is like notebook, but has touch screen, so the input process - like writing or drawing - can be done above the screen uses stylus. But if you rather forgot with Tablet PC, we can understand it. The Tablet PC popularity nowadays is decline if compared to the launch time in 2002. IDC data also shows that sale of Tablet PC in 2007 is around 3,3 million units, or only 1,2% from total sale of all PC in around the world.

But the Tablet PC sale fact doesn't make big manufacturer delays their newest Tablet PC launch. One of it is HP which launches Pavilion TX1209. This US$ 1484 gadget has 12,1 inches screen with widescreen format, and equipped by AMD Turion TL-58 (1,9GHz), RAM DDR2 1GB and graphic card nVidia GeForce 6150 (onboard).

First time use it, we directly impressed with HP accuracy in designing this gadget. To change from notebook to Tablet PC, the process is so easy because the axis which felt smooth and flexible to be turned around. You wouldn’t get difficulty to change screen display (from landscape to portrait position and on the contrary), because the existence of arrow symbolic button in screen side. HP also carefully designs every button (Power, WiFi, and the multimedia application) in sides of notebook so that easy to access in notebook and also Tablet PC mode.

But when applies it, we also discovers some TX1209 lacking, mainly when working as Tablet PC. One of them its weight which reaching 2,1 kgs, so heavy for 12,1 inches notebook class. Besides we also discover that the air output from heat firing canal felt hot enough. Both constraints make the usage of this peripheral as Tablet PC felt unable to please.

Its performance as notebook also can be said average. The battery endurance is also less ideal if you often apply this peripheral outside room.

Honestly, we are not a Tablet PC fans, and the presence of HP Pavilion TX 1290 not changing our opinion. In performance side, this product is not special, and still be added by it weight and temperature which bothering it use. The presence of Multi-touch touch screen technology applied by iPhone also makes touch screen technology in tablet PC felt very old.

HP Pavilion TX1209 Review
Price range: $1484
Specs:
Processor: AMD Turion64 X2 TL-58 (1,9GHz)
RAM: DDR2, 1GB
Graphic Card: nVidia GeForce Go 6150
Harddisk: 160GB, SATA
Optical drive: DVD Writer SuperMultu (DVD±R 8x)
Display: 12,1 inci (1280x800 pixel)
Sound card: HD Audio, Realtek ALC62
Dimension: 30,6x22,6x4 cm
Weight: 2,1 kg
Feature: WiFi, Bluetooh, Card reader, USB (3 port), WebCam (1,3MP), Express Card, S-Video, Fingerprint scanner, Expansion Port 3

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Xacti CA65 Review: Another Waterproof Camcorder

2008-04-07T00:27:00.000-07:00

Here you are the 6 megapixel pocket camcorder which great for rain season. Not only drizzling rain, brought to snorkeling until 1,5 meter deep, or even having snow skating also not a problem. Its unnecessary protects this Sanyo Xacti CA65 in underwater casing when recording video clip.

Be knowledgeable, this camcorder with 2,5 inch TFT LCD which able to be turned around to 285º have been water proof designed. So in rain, swims and also when snorkeling, you can be still record without need to worry your camcorder to become broken.

But, Sanyo reminds in order not to souse this Xacti CA65 in water for more than one hour, as well as having to lets it minimum 10 minutes dry before using it again. Other note is to pay attention to water temperature, which may not be above than 40ºC. Of course, battery slot and memory card may not be opened applies wet hand.

Its Super Macro Mode enabling shot in around 1cm distance from subject when lens arranged at wide angle. For long shot, use its 5X optical zoom. When recording video (VGA, 640x480), photo at 6 megapixel resolution also can be taken. Moreover, 6 megapixel pictures can be taken at ISO 1600.

With 7,04x11,14x4,05 cm dimension, CA65 is not too big when grasped so that can accompanies you to record anywhere. This Xacti CA65 which using Secure Digital memory card is available in three color choices: white, yellows, and turquoise.

Xacti CA65 Review
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Sony Ericsson Z555i Review: Stylish Clamshell

2008-04-07T00:18:00.000-07:00

Candybar phone of course has many fans, but Sony Ericsson has never forgotten clamshell phone line. Z555i is presented by Sony Ericsson to complement the line of fold phone product and sweet design product.

A statement of style, it is the slogan carried by Z555i. The design is unique with diamond pattern. Not merely expressing its user style, but also to draw the attention. This triband phone comes up in two color choices: Diamond Black and Dusted Rose.

But Z555i it’s not simply styles, inside it is be full of innovative feature, Gesture Control. Through this feature you can inactive the ring tone or "snooze" alarm function only by wave the hand above this 95x49x16mm gadget. I think it’s would easier compared to Shake Control at W580i.

Moreover, Dynamic Theme which will change the appearance according to season! Color and design from phone theme, system menu, and Home screen can change automatically every year changes. This is not impossible thing because it connected with Z555i calendar feature.

Z555i applies 2 screens. Inside, Sony Ericsson installs 1,9 inch TFT screen, 176x220 pixel. In the outside it use monochrome (128x36 pixel) screen which will hidden when phone isn’t in an active condition.

Other Z555i feature is standard. Besides 1,3MP camera, this 95 grams gadget also supports EDGE, FM radio and music file player feature. Its internal memory which only 12MB can be said too minimum even Sony Ericsson is offer expansion slot for Memory Stick Micro memory card type. Yes, these not yet 3G phones of course makes the style lover as main target.

Sony Ericsson Z555i Review
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Sleeptracker Review: Not Ordinary Watch Alarm

2008-04-04T06:03:00.000-07:00

Many people now depend on alarm as a gadget to rouse from sleep. They use hand watch, organizer, cellphone or PDA.

But, frequently the alarm sound is neglectful. Sometime they only shutdown the sound, then is fallen asleep again.

To avoid this awful case, a new hand watch is created. Its name is Sleeptracker. This watch will rouse the user at the most effective and accurate time.

Sleeptracker can monitor body signals, what indicates the user is sleeping or is being in a active condition. It detects through a sensor which watching body physical signals.

Then Sleeptracker will determine the right time to rouse its user. So, the business would effective.

Bases on theoretical which becoming Sleeptracker creation base, when sleep usually someone through some steps. First phase is luminosity sleep phase.

Second phase is a phase when someone is sleeps more well-sleep. As for at third and fourth phase, someone is enter delta phase (delta sleep). In this phase people is asleep considerably well-sleep.

The next phase is rapid eye movement (REM), which located between the awaking condition and first phase. At this phase people is dreaming.

This step marked with psychological change and symptoms, like brain activity improvement, respiration acceleration, faster eye movement, and muscle relaxation.

In one sleep periods along eight hours, in average adult are experiences 4-5 steps cycles. But, every body has different cycle. This influenced by some factors, among others gender, diet, athletics, drug consumption, alcohol, and stress.

So, among the cycle, there are certain momentums when someone almost awakes. This condition can be triggered by external influence, like noise sound.

But condition of almost awakes usually happened at REM phase. This happened briefest, that is around 20 seconds only. So, at the time is very effective to be aroused someone.

Sleeptracker also sounds the alarm voice or vibration feature. The user would easy to be aroused from its sleep.

Do not like ordinary alarm setting, Sleeptracker user must determine certain time period when alarm is on. The watch will check off the momentum to almost awake with the alarm period setting.

With the method, man who aroused also will feel fresher when he really awaking. "I have proved that I can wake up with fresh without feeling Lethargy," said Seoung-Koo Y. from Lynchburg, Virginia, one of Sleeptracker user.

Sleeptracker is available in two models: Sleeptracker standard (US$ 149) and Sleeptracker Pro (US$ 179).

Both is water proof. But, Sleeptracker standard only be equipped by alarm. As for model Pro is equipped also with vibration feature

Not only that, Sleeptracker Pro also can record the user data when is being in asleep condition for then transfer it through USB cable. User also can evaluate and analyses its condition at the time of sleep.

Sleeptracker Review
Price range: Sleeptracker standard (US$ 149), Sleeptracker Pro (US$ 179).
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Electrolux Inspiro Review: Smart Oven

2008-04-04T05:56:00.000-07:00

Imagine how hard to grilling cake or food in oven if we don’t know the best temperature and right time to give the fine result. If oven can do itself, maybe only Electrolux which able to make it.

Newest oven made by Electrolux named Inspiro. It can automatically determine correct way to cook and produces result wanted.

It has program which arranging temperature based on the food type in it.

Not like conventional way, that is air temperature is measured with thermometer and implemented regularly by thermostat, Inspiro applies sensor. This is the sensor which calculating most accurate combination between energy consumptions and time required to yield correct temperature.

This way similar to automatic digital camera works. Camera automatically arranges lens diaphragm, shutter speed, and focus based on lighting level and its photo object.

"When auto-exposure and auto-focus can be said as new feature at camera, quite a few people who is skeptic," said Hans Stråberg, Electrolux Chief Executive Officer. "But, along with time, auto-focus has been received and now becomes the standard feature."

Straberg tells furthermore, as at camera, Inspiro oven user only needs to push one buttons for professional result.

To cooks mutton. For example, user chooses roasting category at the oven touch control. User also can choose will the mutton be cooked in rare, medium, or well done.

Then oven will indicate the correct level to grill the flesh. Oven itself is still in cool condition.

Go from this chill start, Inspiro calculates energy consumption and time required to boost up flesh temperature until cooked level wanted.

The information then is combined with cooking technique database which saves in oven to calculate warm-up mode combination required for result wanted, for example, top, under, beside, hot weather, or grills.

When cooks process completed, oven will stop automatically. It also soon releases warning for user that food has ready to be presented.

"With Inspiro, Electrolux has transferred professional cooking technique to houses," said Christian Mittermeier, a famous chef in Germany. "No oven which able to combine top, under, beside, and grills by one menus without stopping and turning on again its oven."

According to figure which has applied Inspiro in its house and restaurant, the oven can work with high precision level. It also can be applied easily by common people. If wish to cook conventionally, Inspiro also provides manual mode.

As bonus, Electrolux provides a number of recipes in its site (http://newsroom.electrolux.com) for Inspiro buyer. The recipe for example, tar apple for the vegetarian, chicken curry with mint, baked sheep with Mediterranean vegetable, and muffin. Inspiro would available in market with the price of around $2000.

Electrolux Inspiro Review
Price range: $2000
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eMotion Solar Review: Solar Energy Media Player

2008-04-04T05:30:00.000-07:00

Global warming danger has triggered various people to move on, starts from ex vice president of USA Al Gore till Hollywood celebrity, like Brad Pitt, Keanu Reeves, and Leonardo DiCaprio, active in anti global warming campaign.

Gadget producer also partakes to provide environmental friendly product. Nokia has owned a cell phone concept which all of the material comes from recycle material. Besides, chip manufacturer Texas Instrument has planned to launch solar energy phone in this year.

MediaStreet Company also has the same spirit. They recently launch a solar energy music player and portable video, so called eMotion Solar. But the device doesn’t can only play music, photo, and video, it also able to play Nintendo game, Game Boy, Sega, and reads e-book.

Actually, this gadget has comes up first time Consumer Electronics Show, in Las Vegas, United States, January. Now, it has been sold in United States at the price of US$ 160 (1 GB), US$ 170 (2 GB), and US$ 190 (4 GB).

The design is not as sweet as the other media player, like iPod Touch, iRiver Clix, or Creative Zen Vision W. Its body is fat and having cochlea. When its cochlea is opened, a couple of solar cell will seen fulfills the both sides.

Just like PlayStation Portable or Game Boy, the gadget is equipped by navigation button on the left, and on the right is the face buttons, which consist of X, circle, box, and triangle button. The interface display is simple - if don’t want to be called awful.

It only plays MP3, WMA, WAV, and AMR music file format. Meanwhile, supported video file is AVI (25 frame per second) with resolution quality 320 x 240 pixels. This 3 inches media player cannot play AAC and DivX files. When playing around bonus clip from MediaStreet, video quality yielded is very good.

This gadget is also equipped with embedded classic game, like Super Mario Bros and Contra Force (Nintendo) and also Raiden Triad and Fighter 2 (Sega). It can play pictures with JPEG, BMP, and GIF file format. As for e-book feature not only as text reader, but is also equipped with text to speech reading feature in Chinese and English.

Besides USB port, this gadget has two headphone jack port and equipped with internal speaker. Unhappily, eMotion Solar do not provide special button to control the volume. Although provides SD Card memory slot, it do not support SDHC, so that user can only add memory capacity until 2 GB.

But, it has feature which not owned by other portable media player when running out the energy, that is battery energy refilling with only confronts its cochlea towards sunshine.
By putting it to the sun during 12-15 hours, this media player can be run in around 9 hour. Even, in a zero battery condition, eMotion Solar remain to playable during it stays precise under the sunshine.

From the energy which get from the sun, it also able to function as battery filler for other electronic gadget that using Lithium Ion battery. For example Apple iPod, various phone, PDA, laptop, or digital camera.

eMotion Solar Review
Price range: $169
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Sanyo PLC-XL50 Review: Shortest Projection Distance

2008-03-30T20:58:00.000-07:00

Sometimes the existence of projector narrows the room. The projector which requiring far enough shoot distance makes room felt congested.

The problems seem to be thought also by Sanyo, electronic company of Japan. Recently they launch a projector which suited for company which does not have big meeting room: Sanyo PLC-XL50.

Sanyo gives it title “World's Shortest Projection Distance”. For your info, to present projection object as wide as 80 inch, this projector only requires shoot distance to screen as far as 8 centimeter.

Mean, this projector can be drawn near until almost patch to screen. Hence, it also guarantees projection result which free of presenter shadow as result of projector lamp spotlights.

If compares to NEC WT610 projector. At 61 cm shoot distance, this projector only can present result of projection as wide as 78 inch.

Sanyo can double the shoot distance with more sophisticated projection technology. NEC WT610 only apply mirror to cut short shoot distance, while Sanyo PLC-XL50 applies combination between lenses and non-sferical mirror, or mirror which do not bounce electromagnetic impulse.

This projector applies LCD XGA machine (resolution 1024 x 768). Brightness level presented by it is reaching 2000 lumens.

As for its contrast ratio reaching 600 : 1. This is including bright for a LCD projector. Color presented from computer screen is sharply enough and still saves detail in video dark part.

What little bothering is noise and posterization effect when presenting skin color. Discoloration happened seen not gradual, but drastic.

Meanwhile, this projector built-in audio system shows result that is surprising enough. It can yield hard enough sound and fulfills a big room.

With the size 20 x 37,3 x 50 cm and weight 7,6 kilograms, this projector of course pertained heavy and big. This makes projector setting is more disturbingly compared to other projectors.

Besides, this projector remote control cannot take over mouse pointer function for merely opening the next presentation page. But, it also equipped some other addition, for example Easy Off Function and On-Start Function, so user can turn off and turn on it swiftly.

Moreover, Color Board Mode feature enables user to use color media so that screen do not always must having white color. For the security, it also provides Audio Alarm feature, which will give warning if there are any thief try to take the projector.

Sanyo PLC-XL50 Review
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Seagate Starts Distributing Cheetah

2008-03-30T20:50:00.000-07:00

Seagate Technology starts distribute Cheetah 15K.6 hard drive. Hard drive which claimed energy economical first time is introduced in CeBit in Hanover, Jerman, recently.

Cheetah 15K.6 having factor form 3,5 inch. It can economize energy to 61 % compared to data store as of its class because is equipped by PowerTrim technology which optimizing energy consumed at all levels activity.

A number of computer companies have ordered Cheetah for its requirement. HP, for example, readies to apply it into SAN storage system. "Performance improvement, reliability, less energy (consumption), and collectively capacities assists our EVA (Enterprise Virtual Array) system," said Kyle Fitze, Marketing Director of HP.

As for Super Micro Computer is also chooses Cheetah for their SuperServer and Server Building Block Solutions. "Many of our customer required great and efficient performance," said Charles Liang, President and Chief Executive Officer Super Micro.

Cheetah 15K.6 is available in 147 GB, 300 GB, and 450 GB.

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PowerShot SD770, SD790, SD890 IS: Newest PowerShot from Canon

2008-03-30T20:28:00.000-07:00

Canon returns to launches its three newest PowerShot ELPH camera models. The three cameras are PowerShot SD770, PowerShot SD790, and PowerShot SD890 IS.

SD770 and SD790 are 10 megapixel resolution cameras with 3x optical extension. Both have metal body and equipped with image stabilization feature.

The difference, SD770 has 2,5 inches LCD screen, SD790 have bigger, that is 3 inches. But, SD770 has optic viewfinder, a feature liked by pro photographer.

Meanwhile, Canon PowerShot SD890 is camera with 10 megapixel sensor, but has bigger optical extension ability: 5x (the biggest in PowerShot ELPH class). It also applies metal body with 2,5 inches screen and a viewfinder lens.

It also strengthened by face detector feature, motion detector, with 18 modes. PowerShot SD770, SD790, and SD890 IS can be bought with the price of US$ 300, US$ 350, and US$ 400.

PowerShot SD770, PowerShot SD790, and PowerShot SD890 IS Review
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Sony DPF-D70 Review: Contemporary Design and Fun

2008-03-21T02:51:00.000-07:00

For you that like to display photo at desk, this is the time move to more sophisticated media, namely digital frame. One of them is Sony DPF-D70. Besides having great full color display, your photo can be saved with secure in digitally.

Through 7 inches color LCD, with high resolution (800x400 pixel) plus aspect ratio 15:9, photo displayed seen so contrast and more life. You save until 500 pictures. Because this digital frame already planted with big enough (256 MB) internal memory. To maximize storage space, it’s available image resizing ability.

This peripheral provides multiple display, nine styles slideshow, clock, calendar and single image and index view mode. Moreover, most of memory card format is supports by this digital frame. This photo gadget can present 48 MB and 100MB picture, including JPEG and RAW format (SRF, SR2, ARW is preview only).

Sony DPF-D70 Review:
Features :
- 7" Digital Photo Frame with 800x480 resolution, 15:9 aspect ratio LCD Screen.
- 256MB of internal memory with optional image resizing to maximize internal memory.
- Multiple display modes, including nine slideshow styles, clock and calendar modes, and single image and index views.
- Supports most memory card formats and is equipped with a USB B-type connection.
- Decodes and displays up to 48 MegaPixel and 100MB images, including JPEG and RAW (preview only: SRF, SR2, ARW).
- Auto image rotation and the auto orientation sensor will detect whether the frame is sitting horizontally or vertically and automatically rotate images.
- The backlit SONY logo can be switched on/off

In the box
- DPF-D70 7in Digital Photo Frame
- AC adaptor
- Remote Control

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GPS Mio DigiWalker C230 Review: Max Navigation Gadget

2008-03-21T02:43:00.000-07:00

Personal navigation peripheral become has more variant. One of it is C230 Car Navigation System from Mio Technology Corporation. The product which has got prestigious award from IF Design Award 2008 has elegant oval form, packed with grey nuance exterior.

This minimalist style GPS intentionally designed for entry level segment. But don’t be wrong, at Mio C230 is already planted with intuitive touchscreen interface, so it can guide the user optimally. Start from direction, destination until routes.

Through it compact form and dimension (9x8,4x2,4 cm), Mio C230 is so portable and comfort if inserted to pocket. This peripheral can be said flexible to be used everywhere, including in car. Mio C230 also provides alternative mode for navigation in bus, bicycle or when brought to walks.

Another feature of Mio C230 is the voice guidance feature that will assist to point the user towards location which will be accessed. Without need to see the screen, user eye can be focus to drive.

GPS Mio DigiWalker C230 Review
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SanDisk Cruzer Titanium Plus: Flash Drive with Online Data Backup

2008-03-21T02:28:00.000-07:00

Fear of valuable data loss for USB flash drive user, of course is reasonable. But, the present of new series ‘Cruzer Titanium Plus' from SanDisk, at least can be made as anticipation.

This data storage peripheral is equipped by automatic ability to back up the data by online to BelnSync server via Amazon Web Services technology.

For securities problem, this service supported with device password protection and hardware AES encryption. So, you can easily access it from the peripheral directly and also by online.

With the assist of special software planted, Cruzer Titanium Plus can restore back the data which accidentally deleted from memory. Moreover, newest flash drive technology, namely Windows® ReadyBoost® also planted to increase it performance when connected to Windows® Vista.

At physical sector, titanium metal selected to protect this flash drive from various extreme conditions. So it’s unnecessary that it will fast to broken because fall, or crashed by hard object.

In sale package, this flash drive equipped with ‘lost and-found' service from BoomerangIT for registered user. The advantage, you will get replacement opportunity if your Cruzer Titanium Plus are loses, during the warranty time.

SanDisk Cruzer Titanium Plus Review
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Motorola EQ5 Review: Mini Portable Speaker

2008-03-21T02:16:00.000-07:00

Motorola starts to enter the portable speaker market. This phone vendor launches a Portable Wireless Speaker, called Motorola EQ5. Not far different with the other competitor, the gadgets which relying on Bluetooth connectivity can place forward freedom of activity without cable disturb.

Motorola EQ5 offers stereo voice quality allied by stylishly display. Black color and thin box body, makes it nice enough to see. Some buttons which placed in front, facilitates user to use its function maximally.

With dimension 11,6x6,5x1,5 cm and weight 100 grams, likely represents what a compact of Motorola EQ5 to be brought everywhere. This thing, at the same time express how easy enjoying music and receives a call even we are n the middle of activity.

When sited side by side with phone, Motorola EQ5 can functioned double-duty as speakerphone with echo-cancellation and noise-reduction, so that clear voice quality will be gotten when receiving a call. The integration between this music control and call makes user unnecessary get a problem in enjoying entertainment activity or communications.

Motorola EQ5 Review
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Linksys WRT160N and WRT310N Review: Sexy WiFi Router

2008-03-18T05:15:00.000-07:00

Now it’s the time to make your house as space which full of high-speed internet hot spot without disturbing cable. This hot spot can be yielded through a kind of wireless transmitter which able to be put down everywhere.

There is various wireless transmitter brands or which more popular called WiFi in market. The new one is made by Linksys. This one of Cisco division launches a couple of router: Ultra RangePlus Wireless-N Broadband Router (WRT160N) and Ultra RangePlus Wireless-N Gigabit Router (WRT310N).

Both routers are designed to be compact and good looking. It also portable and easy to attached outside the office room. Its body is made without line and sharp and rigid corner.

This outside display makes both routers to differ from the other. Its body dint in the middle and forms boundary like wing. Its RangePlus Antenna is planted in body so that no more "horn" which boosts.

Both routers have Wireless Access Point, what has four 10/100 switch full-duplex ports. Through this port, all Ethernet cable peripherals can be integrated.

This Access Point applies newest wireless network technology: Wireless-N (with 802.11n draft). This draft of loads various radio signals through multiple in multiple out (MIMO) technology so that it also duplicates the data rate.

Not like ordinary wireless network technology that bewildered by signal reflections, MIMO are applies this reflection to increase broadness and lessens "death point" in its reach area.

Signal spread is also becoming wider so that this connection is better if compared to standard Wireless-G. Because of that, this router is compatible for media centrist application, like video streaming, game, Internet phone, and even WiFi printer.
Both routers are equipped by Linksys Easylink Advisor (LELA) feature, installation guidance which is easy to understand. This software assists the network installation and ascertains the peripheral and connection is still run stable and protected.

Technological like LELA also have been adopted by other router producer, like D-Link and Netgear. D-Link, for example, makes Wireless N Router which equipped by Q&A screen. User can type any question about the problem of installation. While Netgear is make Smart Wizard at WNR834B Wireless Router, English-speaking guidance which is easy to understand.

Both routers can be attached in any part inside the home; along it can reach your PC or laptop, printer, and other WiFi peripheral.

Linksys WRT160N and WRT310N Review
Price Range: WRT160N ($99.99), WRT310N ($124.99)
Specs:
Device Type: Wireless Router
Form Factor: Desktop
Wireless Network Standards: IEEE 802.11g, IEEE 802.11b, IEEE 802.11n
Wireless Data Transfer Rates: 300 Mbps
Wireless Transmit Power: 17 dBm
Security Protocols: WPA, 128-bit WEP, 64-bit WEP, IEEE 802.11i (WPA2)
Networking Standards: IEEE 802.3ab Gigabit Ethernet, IEEE 802.3 Ethernet 10Base-T, IEEE 802.3u Ethernet 100Base-TX
Routing / Firewall Protoccols: DHCP, Network Address Translation (NAT)
Firewall Features: MAC Address Filtering, URL Filtering, Domain Blocking, Scheduling, Stateful Packet Inspection (SPI)
Management: Web Based
WAN Port(s): 1
10/100 Mbps Ports: 4
Ethernet: CAT5, CAT6

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