Saturday, February 27, 2010

IT News HeadLines (HotHardware) 27/02/2010


HotHardware
Sharkoon Introduces Rush Waterproof Gaming Mousepad
We recently covered a waterproof keyboard, which is just fine by itself, but the real mess-maker needs a full complement of waterproof accessories. Wouldn't want that coffee spill to not injure your keyboard, but totally ruin your mousepad, right? Sharkoon, an off-the-wall accessory maker, has just introduced their newest mousing pad, and it's two things primarily: cheap, and waterproof.What's interesting is that you could argue that any hard-surfaced mousepad was "waterproof," as you can simply wipe away the
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Samsung Shovels Skype into LED 7000 and 8000 Series HDTVs
We're not sure this will help Samsung sell more TVs, but for what it's worth, Samsung this week announced that its new LED 7000 and 8000 series of 2010 HDTVs will come with embedded Skype software."Our consumers want their televisions to be a 'one-stop-shop' for entertainment and communication delivered with the highest quality," said Kevin Kyungshik Lee, Vice President of Visual Display at Samsung Electronics. "Including Skype on our TVs meets that expectation perfectly. We're trhilled that Samsung's consumers
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Corsair Ships Nova And Reactor 2.5" SSD Lines
Already, Corsair? For the second time this month, one of the most highly regarded storage and memory companies in existence has issued new solid state drives, and it's beginning to feel as if we're seeing more SSD introductions than HDD introductions. We know that solid state still has quite some ways to go before it catches up to the traditional HDD in terms of sales, but it's clear that companies are behind it 100%. Now to get those prices down to a reasonable level....Today, both the Nova and Reactor series
Read More ...

Matias Introduces Keyboard For Smartphone Users
Matias announced a keyboard that aims to change the way you use your smartphone. As you'll guess from its name, the new USB 2.0 Keyboard + Smartphone Stand features a stand that's built into the keyboard, making it easy for you to use your smartphone apps while at your desk. "This new setup is so convenient," said Edgar Matias, CEO of Matias. "I have all these little apps on my iPod that I use all day. With the new keyboard, they're in easy reach, all the time." As Matias also points out, the keyboard stand
Read More ...

MSI Releases Wind Box DE220 And Wind Box DC220
MSI added two new energy-saving, low-noise, entertainment-oriented models to its Wind Box mini-PC series: the Wind Box DE220 and Wind Box DC220. Both mini-PCs use the latest Intel Pine Trail platform for low energy consumption. Thanks to MSI’s noise reduction technology, the positioning of the system components, the fan and the direction of air-flow in the units, overall system noise is under 24dB. The units can be attached to the back of any LCD to create an All-in-One PC. The Wind Box DE220 features an ATI
Read More ...

An Online App Store For Your Bluetooth Headset
We're accustomed to seeing various apps and app stores for mobile phones, but this is something new: Bluetrek recently launched an online app store for its Bluetrek Crescendo Bluetooth headset. The Talk2Me App Store lets users upload applications and works to enhance the usage experience of the headset. One of the applications available today is called Personal Handsfree Assistant, a service from Dial2Do that will read your emails and lets you reply to and send emails and text messages using your voice. Another
Read More ...

Mobile And Internet TV On The Rise, But Cable Not Leaving Anytime Soon
If you've been led to believe that Mobile TV and Web-based programming aren't going anywhere fast, you've been lied to. If you've been led to believe that traditional TV viewing is rapidly declining, we'd also say that you're off in the wrong direction. A new report stemming from Horowitz Associates' annual Broadband Content and Services (BCS) survey has dug up some interesting conclusions about how people of today consume television content, and it definitely sheds light on both sides of argument.On one hand,
Read More ...

Telava Broadband Bullet 3G Stick: Free To Use And Return, No Contract Required
Mobile broadband use is on the rise, and there's no denying that it will continue to grow in popularity as networks blossom and society encourages people to be continually available regardless of their location. The primary issue with getting mobile Internet from one of the major U.S. carriers is the 2-year agreement that's connected to most of the USB WWAN sticks. Few people are eager to commit themselves to paying $60+ per month for mobile data, let alone commit to doing so for 24 whole months.Thankfully,
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The Waterproof, Backlit Keyboard You've Always Wanted Is Finally Here
Now, this is interesting. Not the keyboard...well, yes, the keyboard as well, but we're primarily talking about the name of this company. Econo-Keys has just issued its newest keyboard, one that is said to be "waterproof." Maybe we're crazy, but wouldn't you only expect stripped-down keyboards from a company called Econo-Keys? The world is a crazy place, we tell ya!The EKB-97-TP not only has a name you'll never remember, but it's definitely one of the most rugged and outdoor-ready ones that we have ever seen.
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Boxee Beta Hacked Onto Apple TV
Apple TV and Boxee, together once again. And that's exactly how it should be. If you have followed the tragic saga between these two, you would know that it was once easy to hack the Apple TV and get Boxee's content portal on there, which made Apple's set-top box a lot more functional and provided easy access to a ton of Web-based programming. Unfortunately, the hack was blocked not long after it was discovered, and for months now Apple TV users have had to pull out their notebooks in order to enjoy Boxee.But
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Nintendo Releases New Information on Upcoming DSi XL Launch
Nintendo's next-generation, up-a-size DS model (the DSi XL) is set to launch in just over a month and the company lifted the lid today on what we can expect at launch. For those of you who aren't in the know, the upcoming DSi XL is a 'large' revision to the DSi's form factor. The unit's iconic twin displays offer 93 percent more viewing area, battery life has been extended from an estimated 9-14 hours with the DSi to 13-17 hours on the DSI XL, and the XL ships with two styluses—one large, one small. Unlike its
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Computer Attacks Via Phishing, Malicious Links & Vulnerabilities Keep Rising
It seems, sometimes, that a new phishing scam crops up every day, no matter how much security is improved.That's not just your imagination.IBM today released its annual IBM X-Force 2009 Trend and Risk Report, which showed threats that include phishing and document format vulnerabilities, among others, are on the rise.The areas are of most concern, the report showed:Malicious Web links, which result in malware or viruses being downloaded onto the clicker's computerPhishing scams, where messages from a seemingly
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Forget About Doom: Quake 2, 3 Up And Running on Motorola Droid
Once upon a time, back when cavemen ruled the Earth and I was in college, the "in" thing to do (if you were a nerd, anyway), was to port Doom to various Windows mobile phones, PDAs, G3/G4-era Macs, graphing calculators, and other assorted devices with limited functionality and horsepower. Now, some 13 years later, porting Doom has apparently become too easy. Two separate Android developers have raised the ante and released functional ports of Quake II and III for the Motorola Droid. Perhaps a screen
Read More ...

Pentax Intros Optio W90 Digicam for Punishing (and Clumsy) Photographers
If you can dish it, the Pentax Optio W90 digicam can probably take it. In fact, there's not much this rugged eleventh-gen Optio can't take, including water, shock, and extremely low temps.According to Pentax, you can submerge the W90 in up to 20 feet of water, making it a suitable option for snorkeling and pool parties alike. It's also shockproof up to 4 feet, and able to withstand sub-freezing temps in case you find yourself chasing the abominable snowman, banished to Siberia, or living in Michigan.Outside
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MSI's 15-Phase R5870 Lightning Graphics Card is an Overclocker's Wet Dream
Shopping for a high-end videocard? Then you've probably been scoping out ATI's Radeon HD 5870, the fastest single-GPU card on the planet. Adding to the hype (deserved, mind you), MSI has just announced its R5870 Lightening graphics card, the only HD 5870 "built to be perfect."Already a killer card, it's not like the HD 5870 needs a whole lot of marketing jargon or performance enhancements, but MSI took the liberty anyway, and we're not complaining. Just as we're prone to get a little bit giddy over a decked
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Corsair Ships Nova And Reactor 2.5" SSD Lines
Already, Corsair? For the second time this month, one of the most highly regarded storage and memory companies in existence has issued new solid state drives, and it's beginning to feel as if we're seeing more SSD introductions than HDD introductions. We know that solid state still has quite some ways to go before it catches up to the traditional HDD in terms of sales, but it's clear that companies are behind it 100%. Now to get those prices down to a reasonable level....

Today, both the Nova and Reactor series are making their debut, which utilize JMicron JMF612 and Indilinx BarefootT controller technologies along with Windows 7 TRIM support. The Reactor series ships in 60GB and 120GB capacities and uses the JMicron controller, which incorporates 128MB of DDR2 cache memory. The 120GB Reactor delivers speeds of up to 250MB/sec read and 170MB/sec write, and the 60GB has the same read speed while stepping down to just 110MB/sec write.

The Nova series utilizes the Indilinx Barefoot controller with 64MB of cache memory, and it comes in 64GB and 128GB sizes. Speeds on these are faster, with the 128GB Nova reacing 270MB/sec (read) and 190MB/sec (write). Both ranges are shipping now from Corsair's website, and a two-year warranty is included.


Corsairآ® Launches Reactor and Nova Series Solid-State Drives

New SSDs utilize JMicron JMF612 and Indilinx BarefootT controller technologies to deliver exceptional price/performance and Windowsآ® 7TRIM support

FREMONT, California, February 26, 2009 - Corsair,a worldwide leader in high-performance computer and flash memoryproducts, today announced the addition of the Reactor Series and NovaSeries to its family of solid-state drives (SSDs). Both the Nova Seriesand Reactor Series provide the performance benefits of solid-state technology at an attractive cost per gigabyte.

TheReactor Series, including 60GB and 120GB drive capacities, is built using the new JMicron JMF612 controller. This second-generation controller from JMicron incorporates 128MB of DDR2 cache memory for stutter-free performance. The 120GB Reactor Series SSD delivers speeds of up to 250MB/s read and 170MB/s write, while the 60GB Reactor SeriesSSD features speeds up to 250MB/s read and 110 MB/s write.

The Nova Series is built using the popular Indilinx Barefoot controller with 64MB of cache memory, and is offered in drive sizes of 64GB and 128GB. The 128GB Nova Series SSD is able to achieve speeds of up to270MB/second read and 190MB/second write, while the 64GB Nova Series SSD delivers speeds up to 270MB/s read and 130MB/s write.

Both Reactor Series and Nova Series SSDs fully support the TRIM command inMicrosoft Windows 7 operating systems, which automatically maintains optimal performance over the lifetime of the drives.

The Reactor Series and Nova Series are available immediately from Corsair's authorized distributors and resellers worldwide and are backed by a Two-Year Limited Warranty. Complete customer support via telephone,email, forum and Tech Support Express is also available.

About Corsair
Founded in 1994,Corsair specializes in premium, high-performance peripherals andcomponents for personal computers. Corsair's award-winning products arethe delight of the world's most demanding hardware enthusiasts. Formore information, visit corsair.com.

Copyrightآ© 2010Corsair. All rights reserved. All company and/or product names may betrade names, trademarks, and/or registered trademarks of the respectiveowners with which they are associated. Features, pricing, availability,and specifications are subject to change without notice

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Checking your Vital signs on your Smartphone? A Ted Talk worth watching.

This is a Ted Talk by Eric Topol on "The wireless future of medicine"

http://www.ted.com/talks/eric_topol_the_wireless_future_of_medicine.html

What do you guys think? Do you like the idea of having your vitals accessible on your phone? This could include everything from your pulse to your blood sugar.


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Nintendo Releases New Information on Upcoming DSi XL Launch
Nintendo's next-generation, up-a-size DS model (the DSi XL) is set to launch in just over a month and the company lifted the lid today on what we can expect at launch. For those of you who aren't in the know, the upcoming DSi XL is a 'large' revision to the DSi's form factor. The unit's iconic twin displays offer 93 percent more viewing area, battery life has been extended from an estimated 9-14 hours with the DSi to 13-17 hours on the DSI XL, and the XL ships with two styluses—one large, one small. Unlike its predecessors, the XL isn't following the tinyfication trend—it's bigger, chunky but very touchable and somehow sleek. The unit's glossy lid has been variously praised for its appearance and damned for its ability to transform from pristine shiny surface to goo-swathed hideousness in a single bag of Cheetos.

We like the color and the larger stylus, but that thing deserves some sort of "Most likely to be mistaken for a ballpoint pen" award. And where, exactly, does it go?

When the XL launches next month it will feature a wider viewing angle, two colors (burgundy and bronze), and comes loaded with pre-installed premium software Brain Age™ Express: Arts & Letters, Brain Age Express: Math and Photo Clock, as well as two free applications: the Nintendo DSi Browser and Flipnote Studio™. Two additional games: America’s Test Kitchen: Let’s Get Cooking and WarioWare™: D.I.Y. will also launch for the Nintendo DS family of products on March 28.

There's a range of new Wii titles coming down the pipe as well including Super Mario Galaxy 2 (May 23rd), Metroid: Other M (with new OMG3D technology) on June 27, Prince of Persia: The Forgotten Sands on May 18, and Capcom's Monster Hunter Tri, which claims to offer a wide degree of customization, Internet play, and fully integrated text/audio chat (if you've got a Wii Speak microphone).

The DSi XL further cements the idea that Nintendo has its finger squarely on the pulse of what its customers would like to see in a new model, unlike its chief competitor. When Sony launched the PSP Go last year, its idea of progress consisted of slashing screen size (highly debatable as a plus), weight, and unit size. If Sony had stopped there, there'd be no problem. Instead, the company completely broke compatibility with existing PSP peripherals, removed the UMD slot (all games must now be bought at the Playstation Store online), and slapped a $50 premium on the unit.

Comparing the two devices, the DSi XL looks as though it'll continue Nintendo's traditional market dominance. It's not a huge update—realistically, the XL seems like a DS after someone grabbed a corner and dragged it a little bigger. Same functionality, just a bigger screen and stylus—but if it ain't broke, don't fix it.

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Matias Introduces Keyboard For Smartphone Users
Matias announced a keyboard that aims to change the way you use your smartphone. As you'll guess from its name, the new USB 2.0 Keyboard + Smartphone Stand features a stand that's built into the keyboard, making it easy for you to use your smartphone apps while at your desk.

"This new setup is so convenient," said Edgar Matias, CEO of Matias. "I have all these little apps on my iPod that I use all day. With the new keyboard, they're in easy reach, all the time."



As Matias also points out, the keyboard stand allows you to use your iPod for personal use and your desktop PC for business use: "It also lets me keep my personal stuff on my iPod touch totally separate from the work I'm doing on my PC," said Matias. "I can keep tabs on things with my iPod, leaving my Mac screen clutter free, and dedicated to what I'm working on."

Although Matias' comments focus on the iPod, the silicone stand is designed to fit all smartphones. The keyboard also features a built-in USB hub for plugging in flash drives or a mouse.

The USB 2.0 Keyboard + Smartphone Stand is available now for a suggested retail price of $49.95. It's available from www.matias.ca and will be coming soon to Matias Authorized Resellers.

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Sharkoon Introduces Rush Waterproof Gaming Mousepad
We recently covered a waterproof keyboard, which is just fine by itself, but the real mess-maker needs a full complement of waterproof accessories. Wouldn't want that coffee spill to not injure your keyboard, but totally ruin your mousepad, right? Sharkoon, an off-the-wall accessory maker, has just introduced their newest mousing pad, and it's two things primarily: cheap, and waterproof.

What's interesting is that you could argue that any hard-surfaced mousepad was "waterproof," as you can simply wipe away the beads of water and continue on. Well, as long as no liquid got up under your trackball or laser. But the difference here is that it's a textile pad, which certainly reminds more of mousepads 10 years ago than ones made today. But some folks do love that "cushion" feel, and we suspect Sharkoon is aiming for that crowd with this.



The new Rush Gaming pad is one of the larger ones we've seen, and the company promises that dust, crumbs and liquids won't penetrate the surface. It's built for the "low-sense gamer," who plays with a lower resolution and requires more freedom of movement. For LAN party people, it's easily rolled up and carried along. The pad is available now for 14.99 euros, but we aren't sure if a U.S. release is incoming.


Waterproof Textile Mouse Pad for Gamers

Heavy duty textile pad in large format with 444 x 345 mm / MSRP 14.99 euros

Sharkoon has now expanded it's specifically designed for gamers "Rush"product series to mouse pads: The Sharkoon Rush Gaming Mouse pad in itslarge size defines itself with precise sliding qualities and also witha new, strainable textile surface in particular for demanding PC gamers.

Exceptional tightly woven fibers and an elaborate manufacturing processensure the texture is abrasion resistant and water proof. Dust, crumbs,and liquids will not penetrate into the fabric and can simply be wipedoff. Ruinous and unattractive coffee or sweat stains are a thing of thepast. In addition, the granular texture ensures fast and precise mousemovements with the rubberized base keeping the pad in place even in themost hectic situations.

The mouse pad has a thickness of 4mm and offers a 444mm x 345mm edgelength which provides a generous action surface particularly for theLow-Sense-Gamer, who plays with less mouse resolution and requiresfreedom of movement. The cloth pad is suitable for all mouse types, andthe mouse pad can simply be rolled together for easy transport.

The Rush Outplay has already successfully passed the test of ademanding gamer. Jan "moon" Stolle, who is a multiple GermanCounter-Strike 1.6 champion with "Team ALTERNATE," provides theassessment: "The pad has a very fast surface due to the special yarnused. The Slap Stick Effect (Status Friction Effect) is reduced to aminimum by the rough surface texture. Therefore, even smaller mousemovements are extremely precise! The sensitivity remains constantduring a long period. For me, a genuine alternative to my plastic pad!My recommendation!"

End customers will find the Sharkoon Rush Outplay Gaming Mouse padavailable immediately for the retail price 14.99 euros in authorizedretailers.

For further questions, to request samples and/or photos, or other information please contact us or go to www.sharkoon.com.


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Mobile And Internet TV On The Rise, But Cable Not Leaving Anytime Soon
If you've been led to believe that Mobile TV and Web-based programming aren't going anywhere fast, you've been lied to. If you've been led to believe that traditional TV viewing is rapidly declining, we'd also say that you're off in the wrong direction. A new report stemming from Horowitz Associates' annual Broadband Content and Services (BCS) survey has dug up some interesting conclusions about how people of today consume television content, and it definitely sheds light on both sides of argument.

On one hand, the fact that four in ten of those surveyed watch broadband or mobile TV at least once monthly speaks volumes about the power of new content channels. 40% of people admit to watching a non-traditional media portal at least once per month. Considering that around only 65% of America has broadband, that's really impressive. On the other hand, 60% still only watch TV the "normal" way, which means we have a long way to go before people really start canceling their cable subscriptions with any sense of urgency.



It's important to note that this was an Internet survey, so it's highly likely that Internet users would watch more Internet TV. That said, the figures are super interesting. A whopping 82% of those aged 15-17 admitted to watching online or mobile TV at least once monthly, and on handheld devices alone, half (48%) of online young people surveyed report watching TV content at least monthly, doubling from 24% last year.

According to the Horowitz study, of all the hours Internet users say they spend watching TV programs,آ about 4% of TV time is on a platform other than a TV set — 2% on a PC/laptop and 2% on a handheld — with the vast majority (96%) still consumed via the traditional television platform. "It's important to keep in perspective that when all is said and done, consumers are still spending only a very small amount of their total TV time on alternative platforms," notes Adriana Waterston, VP of Marketing for the research firm. "But, we anticipate that multiplatform TV viewing will continue to grow — especially among young people — as the technology improves towards a more authentic and convenient TV experience, and with programmers and aggregators actively promoting themselves on these platforms."

Have your viewing habits changed now that Hulu, Boxee and all of the other Web-based choices have made themselves known? Are you still a traditional sofa surfer?آ

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The Waterproof, Backlit Keyboard You've Always Wanted Is Finally Here
Now, this is interesting. Not the keyboard...well, yes, the keyboard as well, but we're primarily talking about the name of this company. Econo-Keys has just issued its newest keyboard, one that is said to be "waterproof." Maybe we're crazy, but wouldn't you only expect stripped-down keyboards from a company called Econo-Keys? The world is a crazy place, we tell ya!



The EKB-97-TP not only has a name you'll never remember, but it's definitely one of the most rugged and outdoor-ready ones that we have ever seen. It's a sealed design that keeps water out, yet it's still slim enough to be carried about without too much hassle. It also includes an integrated trackpad (rare for a keyboard) and number pad, not to mention a revised blue LED backlighting system that makes it easy to pound away on reports and e-mails through the night.

The company claims that this waterproof keyboard is great for field use and enterprises, but we could definitely see the unconventional consumer picking one up and seeing just how wet things could get before it stopped delivering Tweets. It will start shipping on March 8, 2010, and you can tell by the $196 price tag that this isn't designed for the average keyboard user. But it just might be perfect for the average coffee spiller.



• Fully sealed, IP67 case features no seams or crevices
• Touchpad with left- and right-click keys
• 97 keys, including 12 function keys
• 10-key numeric pad
• 5.25' USB cable connection
• Compatible with all Windows operating systems
• Plug-and-play setup requires no software installation or special drivers
• 14.93â€‌ x 5.52â€‌ x 0.38â€‌
• 379.2 x 140.2 x 9.7 (mm)

IP67 keyboard protects against:
• Splashing, hose-directed and submerged water
• Bleach, alcohol and hospital-grade disinfectants
• Corrosive, abrasive, acidic and alkaline substances
• Dirt, dust, sand and other airborne debris
• Extreme temperatures


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Telava Broadband Bullet 3G Stick: Free To Use And Return, No Contract Required
Mobile broadband use is on the rise, and there's no denying that it will continue to grow in popularity as networks blossom and society encourages people to be continually available regardless of their location. The primary issue with getting mobile Internet from one of the major U.S. carriers is the 2-year agreement that's connected to most of the USB WWAN sticks. Few people are eager to commit themselves to paying $60+ per month for mobile data, let alone commit to doing so for 24 whole months.

Thankfully, there's now an alternative. It's not the very first non-contract mobile data solution we have seen, but it's certainly one of the better options (and a little competition never hurt the consumer). Reportedly, the $200 stick can be purchased outright or "leased" with just a $100 security deposit, and so long as you return it, you'll get you $100 back (if it's in good, working condition). While you have it, you pay $50 per month for 5GB of data, but for just $10 more per month you can have access to unlimited mobile data.



This "Broadband Bullet" plugs into any USB port and operates on HSPA and HSPA+ networks at up to 7.2Mbps or 12Mbps. If you live way out in a rural area, chances are your signal won't be any good, for it's a great option for travelers who find themselves in various cities in need of mobile broadband.

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Pentax Intros Optio W90 Digicam for Punishing (and Clumsy) Photographers
If you can dish it, the Pentax Optio W90 digicam can probably take it. In fact, there's not much this rugged eleventh-gen Optio can't take, including water, shock, and extremely low temps.

According to Pentax, you can submerge the W90 in up to 20 feet of water, making it a suitable option for snorkeling and pool parties alike. It's also shockproof up to 4 feet, and able to withstand sub-freezing temps in case you find yourself chasing the abominable snowman, banished to Siberia, or living in Michigan.



Outside of its rugged design, the Optio W90 also boasts a 12.1 megapixel sensor, 2.7-inch LCD screen with a 16:9 aspect ratio, Eye-Fi wireless SD memory card connectivity, the ability to capture 720p HD video at 30 frames per second, and an HDMI port so you can view all your extreme scenes on your swank HDTV.



Pentax says it will start shipping the Optio W90 in April for $330, mud (at least we hope that's what it is) not included.

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Forget About Doom: Quake 2, 3 Up And Running on Motorola Droid
Once upon a time, back when cavemen ruled the Earth and I was in college, the "in" thing to do (if you were a nerd, anyway), was to port Doom to various Windows mobile phones, PDAs, G3/G4-era Macs, graphing calculators, and other assorted devices with limited functionality and horsepower. Now, some 13 years later, porting Doom has apparently become too easy. Two separate Android developers have raised the ante and released functional ports of Quake II and III for the Motorola Droid.


Perhapsآ aآ screen shot droppedآ on aآ phone render—but source code is available and functional.

That's quite a feat, considering the technological improvements that occurred between Doom's release (Dec 1993), Quake II (Dec 1997) and Quake III (Dec 1999). Doom ran acceptably on my 386 SX-16 and was blazing-fast on my best friend's 486 DX2/66. When Doom debuted, 3D acceleration wasn't even an option; by the time Quake III launched, it was a basic hardware requirement if you wanted to play the game. Memory and CPU requirements increased similarly, from a 386/8MB of RAM for Doom to a 90MHz CPU and 16MB for Quake II, and a 233MHz CPU and 64MB of RAM for Quake 3. Sure, the games are old, but the fact that they can be tuned to run on a mobile phone actually says a great deal about what sort of functionality we might see in future devices.


Hrm. That map looks familiar...

Here's a video demonstration of Quake 3 on the Motorola Droid. We don't have a video for Quake II, but both ports are running at playable framerates with 3D acceleration enabled.



Once Quake II and III are finished, how about a version of Civilization?

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iPod music (MP4) to MP3 player
Sharing my story, hope it's helpful for somebody. Ihave an iTunes account subscriber and there are gigabites of iTunes M4P files on my PC. Of course I used to listen to them on iPod. But last month my iPod was stolen (sh*t!) and I've got a new zune player on my birthday! Obviously I couldn't transfer my M4P collection to it because these file had iTunes DRM protection. Luckily I found M4P converter and converted all my iTunes files just in a few minutes!So I recommend this M4P converter if you have any problems with iTunes files - it can convert them to unprotected MP3 or any other format so you can play them on any player or PC. The url is mp4-converter.info or something like this. Tell me if you need exact will go thru my mail

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An Online App Store For Your Bluetooth Headset
We're accustomed to seeing various apps and app stores for mobile phones, but this is something new: Bluetrek recently launched an online app store for its Bluetrek Crescendo Bluetooth headset. The Talk2Me App Store lets users upload applications and works to enhance the usage experience of the headset.

One of the applications available today is called Personal Handsfree Assistant, a service from Dial2Do that will read your emails and lets you reply to and send emails and text messages using your voice. Another offering, Bing411 voice search, provides easy access to stock quotes, sports scores, flight schedules, news, weather, and local traffic information from the 511 hotline.

The app store also provides language downloads that will change the voice command and voice prompt languages on the headset. Currently, English and French language packs are available, but German, Spanish, and Italian are coming soon.

Through the app store, users can also upload a firmware version with specially tuned audio for the mobile platform (Nokia, Blackberry, iPhone, or Windows Mobile) he or she is using.



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MSI Releases Wind Box DE220 And Wind Box DC220
MSI added two new energy-saving, low-noise, entertainment-oriented models to its Wind Box mini-PC series: the Wind Box DE220 and Wind Box DC220. Both mini-PCs use the latest Intel Pine Trail platform for low energy consumption. Thanks to MSI’s noise reduction technology, the positioning of the system components, the fan and the direction of air-flow in the units, overall system noise is under 24dB. The units can be attached to the back of any LCD to create an All-in-One PC.

The Wind Box DE220 features an ATI Radeon HD 4300 graphics processor with support for Full-HD 1080p video playback and a HDMI output. No word yet on pricing or availability.


Ultra-Low Energy Consumption, Ultra-Effective Noise Reduction, Ultra-Mini Size, Ultra-Exciting Entertainment

MSI launches new energy-saving, low-noise, 2L mini-PCs with outstanding entertainment capabilities Wind Box DE220 and Wind Box DC220

(February 2, 2009) Taipei – MSI, the global leading brand in All-in-One PC, today announced the launch of two new energy-saving, low-noise, entertainment-oriented models in MSI’s Wind Box mini-PC series: the Wind Box DE220 and Wind Box DC220. Using a 2L design, the Wind Box DE220 and DC220 have inherited the ultra-slim good looks of the earlier generation of A4-sized mini-PCs, but with the addition of improved energy-saving and noise reduction capabilities. The two mini-PCs use the latest Intelآ® Pine Trail platform, which provides energy consumption around 90% lower than that of a conventional desktop PC. This, plus their outstanding noise reduction performance (under 24dB), makes them ideal for continuous use over long periods of time. The Wind Box DE220 and DC220 can be attached to the back of any LCD monitor (or even an LCD TV) to create a space-saving "All-in-One PC." The Wind Box DE220 also features an ATI آ® Radeon HD 4300 graphics processor and HDMI output, ensuring outstanding performance for both high-definition video content viewing and 3D gaming. Products in the Wind Box series all use environmentally-friendly coating materials; both the Wind Box DE220 and the DC220 conform to the new EuP (Energy using Products) environmental directive that is being introduced by the European Union in 2010. Combined with their low energy consumption, this makes both Wind Box models first-class examples of environmentally-friendly products.

Low power consumption and noise reduction for maximum user comfort

The Wind Box DE220 and DC220 use the Intelآ® Pine Trail platform, with the latest Atom D510 dual-core or D410 single-core CPU. This makes for a significant reduction in electricity consumption; average power consumption is 90% less than that required by a typical desktop PC, and 50% lower than the power consumption of the first-generation Atom CPUs. Extensive testing has shown that the energy consumption of the Wind Box DE220 and DC220 is actually lower than that of most energy-saving light-bulbs, and about the same as a fluorescent bulb. In addition, using MSI’s unique noise reduction technology, the positioning of the system components, the fan and the direction of air-flow have been adjusted to reduce overall system noise to under 24dB. The DE220 and DC220 are incredibly quiet; if you have one in your bedroom, you can fall asleep without being disturbed by the noise from the mini-PC. With its combination of low energy consumption and low noise, the Wind Box DE220 and DC220 are ideal for home use, for use in situations where the PC needs to be kept on for an extended period, and also for use in libraries or offices where users are expected to keep the noise level down.

Environmentally-friendly design

Maintaining the commitment to the use of environmentally-friendly materials that has characterized all of the Wind Box mini-PCs, the DE220 and DC220 both use coating materials that have no harmful ingredients, and neither of them uses difficult-to-recycle plastic coating; this reflects MSI’s determination to play its part in protecting the environment. With average energy consumption that is roughly equivalent to a fluorescent light bulb, and 90% lower than that of a typical desktop PC, the DE220 and DC220 provide annual savings in electricity consumption of around 2,365 kWh (equivalent to reducing annual carbon dioxide emissions by 1.8 tons). From the point of view of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and protecting the environment, choosing the Wind Box DE220 or DC220 is an easy, effective way of putting your ideals into practice. The Wind Box DE220 and DC220 have secured Energy Star certification in the U.S.; they also conform to the requirements of the new European Union EuP (Energy using Product) environmental directive, which will come into effect in 2010 (the EuP imposes new standards for power consumption, energy efficiency, noise reduction, fan noise and temperature control, and the permitted percentages of toxic materials).

Comprehensive audiovisual and entertainment functions

The Wind Box DE220 features a built-in ATI آ® Radeon HD 4300 series graphics processor, ensuring outstanding audiovisual entertainment performance. The ATI Radeon HD4300 supports Full-HD 1080p video playback; its unique Ultimate Visual Experience technology eases the pressure that decoding HD video signals puts on the CPU, enabling users to switch on other applications at the same time as they are watching HD video or playing 3D games. The Wind Box DE220 is also equipped with HDMI output connectors, making it possible to connect the DE220 to a large, full-HD display for viewing HD video content or playing 3D games, while still enjoying outstandingly bright and crisp image quality. Both the Wind Box DE220 and Wind Box DC220 come with Microsoft’s latest Windowsآ® 7 operating system installed; this highly intuitive operating system provides a brand-new user experience.

Compact, lightweight and convenient to use

The Wind Box DE220/DC220 is a 2L mini-PC, about the same size as a sheet of A4 paper. Placed on an office desk or on a table at home, it occupies about the same amount of space as an A4 document folder, taking up hardly any room at all. Both the DE220 and DC220 can be attached easily to the back of an LCD monitor or LCD TV, transforming the monitor or TV into an All-in-One PC. With this capability, users can turn their TV into a complete home entertainment center that combines TV, gaming and video playback functions, making the Wind Box DE220/DC220 ideal for people who want to save space while also benefitting from multi-functionality. The Wind Box DE220/DC220 weighs just 2 kg, making it easy to carry and move around, and to switch from one display to another. This streamlined “portable desktop PCâ€‌ combines the performance of a desktop PC with the mobility of a laptop.

Color scheme: chic black, marine blue

SPECIFICATIONS:

DE220

CPU

Intelآ® Atomâ„¢ 510/410 Processor 1.66GHz

Chipset

Intelآ® NM10 Express Chipset

Graphic

Discrete ATIآ® Mobility Radeon HD 4300 Series / 256MB

HDD

3.5" 160GB 7200 RPM

Memory

DDR2, So-DIMM x2, maximum to 4GB

Power

65W,19V

Wi-Fi

802.11 b/g/n; Mini PCI-E card

Rear I/O

USB x 2(front*2 , Rear*2) / RJ45 LAN port

VGA out / HDMI out

Mic-In & Audio-out ( SPDIF out)

DC-in

E-SATA

Front I/O

Card Reader (6 in 1,XD, SD, mini SD, Micro SD, MMC, MS)

IR Receiver

USB x 2

Color Plan

Black/Blue

Dimension

283mmx178mmx40.4mm,2 Liter (297mmx223mmx60.2mm)

OS

Microsoftآ® Windowsآ® 7 Home Premium



DC220

CPU

Intelآ® Atomâ„¢ 510/410 Processor 1.66GHz

Chipset

Intelآ® NM10 Express Chipset

Graphic

Integrated Intelآ® NM10 Express Chipset / 224MB

HDD

3.5" 160GB 7200 RPM

Memory

DDR2, So-DIMM x2, maximum to 4GB

Power

65W,19V

Wi-Fi

802.11 b/g/n; Mini PCI-E card

Rear I/O

USB x 2(front*2 , Rear*2) / RJ45 LAN port

VGA out

Mic-In & Audio-out ( SPDIF out)

DC-in

E-SATA

Front I/O

Card Reader (6 in 1,XD, SD, mini SD, Micro SD, MMC, MS)

IR Receiver

USB x 2

Color Plan

Black/Blue

Dimension

283mmx178mmx40.4mm,2 Liter (297mmx223mmx60.2mm )

OS

Microsoftآ® Windowsآ® 7 Home Premium




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