IT-Code-News: IT News HeadLines (HotHardware) 27/08/2010

Corsair Ships Professional Series Gold PSUs
Due to the development of more powerful CPUs and graphics processors, we demand more from our power supplies today than we have in years past. To meet those demands, Corsair announced the Professional Series Gold AX1200, AX850, and AX750 power supply units at Computex earlier this year. Now, these new power supplies are available. The Professional Series Gold is based on a server-grade power train architecture. The line delivers over 90% efficiency at 50% load when using a 115V AC input. The Corsair Professional
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GSKill Phoenix Pro: Little Drive, Lotta Performance
SSDs account for just a fraction of the storage market in terms of units shipped, but high consumer interest and significant profit margins have brought manufacturers in droves. GSkill isn't exactly a newcomer to the field, but the sheer number of companies in the dogpile make it more difficult for any single manufacturer to win a definitive lead against the others, at least in terms of technology alone. Today we're reviewing GSkill's 60GB Phoenix Pro. This relatively diminutive drive is meant to offer enthusiasts
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Contaminated Flash Drive Wreaks Havoc on Pentagon PCs
Like something straight out of a Hollywood action movie, foreign spies managed to swipe sensitive information from the Pentagon by plugging a dirty flash drive into a U.S. military laptop, according to reports. This actually happened some two years ago, but is just now coming to light now that it's been de-classified by Uncle Sam. "It was a network administrator's worst fear: a rogue program operating silently, poised to deliver operational plans into the hands of an unknown adversary," Deputy Defense Secretary
Read More ...

Ready, Set, Hut! Sony Adds New 3D Bravia TVs to Roster in Time for Football Season
In the coming months, you'll see the New England Patriots return to dynasty form and whup the competition, Brett Favre throw for a billion yards (and nearly as many interceptions), and Peyton Manning assume the fetal position at the first sound of footsteps (yes folks, this Editor is a die-hard Patriots fan). Sony hopes you'll see all the action on one of its new 3D Bravia TVs, particularly "with a number of college and pro football games slated to be broadcast in 3D this fall," as Sony points out. Sony is manning
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Logitech Debuts Z623 2.1 Channel PC Speaker System
In need of new speakers? Logitech has you covered. Whether you're looking for new PC speakers, new TV speakers, or a new set for your studio apartment in general, the new Z623 system could fit the bill. It's a mid-sized 2.1 setup, complete with a small pair of satellites and a robust ported subwoofer. Together, the kit offers 200 watts (RMS) of power, which is plenty for the back to school kid in your life or the bedroom you've needed to fill with sound. These speakers are pretty simple. Logitech designed them
Read More ...

3D Films Already Running Out Of Steam
Over the last few years, and particularly since Avatar hit the big screen seven months ago, display manufacturers and the film industry have been yammering to anyone that would listen that 3D technology is The Next Big Thing. Investors and analysts have cautiously warned against embracing the concept that 3D would reinvigorate theaters and profit margins; new evidence suggests consumer interest in 3D films is falling much more quickly than previously expected. A recent story from Slate dug into revenue data
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Canon Intros EOS 60D DSLR: 1080p Movie Mode, 18MP, Vari-Angle LCD
Watch out, Nikon! Canon has a new mid-range DSLR out today, and the specifications look super impressive. The 50D is being replaced today by the EOS 60D, which is a new prosumer DSLR camera that features an 18MP sensor, a flexible rear LCD, in-camera RAW processing and plenty of other specs to make the budding photographer think twice about replacing their current body. The new 60D is full of firsts; there's a 3" Vari-Angle LCD on the rear, which is a rarity on DSLR cameras these days. There's also the all-new
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Google Turns Gmail Into a Phone
We know that Google is constantly experimenting with new ideas, and rolling them out as they come to fruition. Thus, on Wednesday, we saw another feature come to Gmail, which Google seems to be focusing on as a communications center. While you have been able voice chat to other Gmail users through Gtalk for some time, how about this: voice calls from Gmail? It would seem to be a natural extension of the voice chat functionality, and Google Voice as well. While you can use Google Voice to make a call, it doesn't
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Next-Gen AMD Bobcat and Bulldozer CPU Deep Dive
Yesterday, we chided AMD for its decision not to reveal more details about Bulldozer and Bobcat, but it turns out we didn't have all the facts. AMD was planning on disclosing more information later in the day at Hot Chips—but the company failed to disclose that tid-bit before we went live with our previous coverage. We're going to take a look at the new information about Bobcat and Bulldozer that's subsequently been revealed; if you want more general backround data you can get it here... Next-Gen AMD Bobcat
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Garmin Voluntarily Recalls 1.25 Million Navigation Devices
Don't you just hate it when you're driving down the highway and then, BAM, your GPS burst into flames, turning your Honda into a rolling fireball? That hasn't actually happened to us -- or anyone, for that matter -- and probably never will, but according to Garmin, some of its Nuvi Personal Navigation Devices contain potentially faulty batteries that could overheat, and in some rare instances, catch on fire. Garmin says less than 10 cases total have so far been identified, none of which have caused any "significant
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Windows 95 Turns 15 Years Old, Retired Since Age 6
Everybody sing it with us now, "Happy birthday to you, happy birthday to you...you live in a zoo," and so forth. More accurately, Windows 95, which just turned 15 years old this week, lives on in infamy as a groundbreaking operating system that was light years ahead of its predecessors, and set the tone -- at least in terms of the GUI -- for future versions to follow. "If you look at Windows 95, it was a quantum leap in difference in technological capability and stability," Gartner analyst Neil MacDonald said
Read More ...

Next-Gen AMD Bobcat and Bulldozer CPU Deep Dive
Yesterday, we chided AMD for its decision not to reveal more details about Bulldozer and Bobcat, but it turns out we didn't have all the facts. AMD was planning on disclosing more information later in the day at Hot Chips—but the company failed to disclose that before we went live with our previous coverage. We're going to take a look at the new information about Bobcat and Bulldozer that's subsequently been revealed; if you want more general background data, check the links above. Bully For
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Hitachi Reveals Redesigned 2TB SimpleDrive External HDD

Hitachi Global Storage Technologies (Hitachi GST) has been riding the 2TB bandwagon for some time now, producing a solid 7200rpm 2TB internal HDD and outfitting its G-Technology line with the same spacious platters. Nowm, the company is announcing the availability of the newly designed SimpleDrive external HDD, and surprise, surprise, it'll have a 2TB drive within.

Also, the firm announced that all of its 3.5-inch retail drives are now available in 2TB capacities, and two of those solutions include the Hitachi SimpleTech Pro Drive and the two-drive, RAID 0/1 Duo Pro Drive. Each of these are available now, with the new 2TB SimpleDrive USB 2.0 Desktop External Hard Drive costing $249.99.

HITACHI DEBUTS NEW 2TB SIMPLEDRIVE
Third-Generation External Storage Solution is Loaded with 2TBs of Simple, Reliable Storage and Backup Options for Consumers and Business Users; 2TB Capacities Now Available Across
Hitachiâ€™s Entire Retail 3.5-Inch Product Line
San Jose, Calif., November 16, 2009 â€“ Hitachi Global Storage Technologies (Hitachi GST) today announced the availability of the newly designed SimpleDriveâ„¢ desktop external hard drive with capacities of up to two terabytes (2TB). In addition, the company announced that all of its 3.5-inch retail drives are now available in 2TB capacities, featuring the Hitachi Deskstar 7K2000, the industryâ€™s first 2TB 7,200 RPM hard drive that blends performance and high capacity with low power features. New, upgraded solutions include the Hitachi SimpleTech Pro Driveâ„¢; the two-drive, RAID 0/1 Duo Pro Driveâ„¢; and the Hitachi Internal Hard Drive Kit for the do-it-yourself (DIY) computer-upgrade market. All products are now available.
â€œHitachi continues to build its channel presence with an expanded portfolio of 2TB storage solutions for business users, consumers or virtually anyone who needs additional capacity to manage the growing number and size of their digital files,â€ said Azmat Ali, vice president of marketing, Branded Business, Hitachi GST. â€œEven though people are inundated with digital content daily, many are not taking the necessary precautions to safeguard their content. Our external drives, together with consistent backup practices, will help people keep their digital memories, entertainment and business documents safe.â€
New SimpleDrive USB 2.0 Desktop External Hard Drive
With a new design that clearly communicates a purpose â€“ solid data protection â€“ the SimpleDrive balances ruggedness and ease of use all in one streamlined package. The new Hitachi SimpleDrive sits vertically for a non-invasive footprint, which is important for a small home or office environment. With up to 2TB capacity and a plug-and-play design, the SimpleDrive gives both Mac and PC users simplicity, reliability and enough capacity to store or backup 665,000 photos, 500,000 MP3s or 4,000 hours of standard video¹. Delivering style and substance, it features an anodized aluminum enclosure to keep the SimpleDrive cool, and a reliable, high performance, low-power Hitachi hard drive inside to help protect your pics, flix, tunes and docs. Now available at OfficeMax stores nationwide, the Hitachi SimpleDrive comes in 500GB, 1TB and 2TB capacities, with a manufacturerâ€™s suggested retail price (MSRP) of $99.99, $129.99 and $249.99, respectively.
Â
Extended 2TB Hitachi Family
To help relieve users of data overload and free up more working space, Hitachi now offers the following solutions in 2TB capacities:Â
SimpleTech Pro Drive by Hitachi - With four interface options (USB 2.0, FireWire 400, FireWire 800, and 3Gb/sec eSATA) and two levels of backup protection, the Pro Drive is a smart investment that delivers virtually everything you need in a single storage and backup solution. Its compact design lets you stack multiple units or stand them upright to optimize desk space. A built-in security lock helps ensure that the drive remains where you left it. Capacities and MSRPs include 500GB ($119.99), 1TB ($169.99) and 2TB ($299.99).
SimpleTech Duo Pro Drive by Hitachi - With two drives in one, the Duo Pro Drive gives you two ways to save your data: RAID 0 (speed) or RAID 1 (mirroring). RAID 0, or striping, leverages both hard drives inside to read/write files, making storing and accessing files significantly faster than using one disk alone. If using eSATA in RAID 0, you can receive six times the speed of USB 2.0, ideal for home video editing or working with graphic-intensive files. For added data protection, RAID 1, or mirroring, makes an extra copy of stored files on the second internal hard drive, so you always have two separate copies of your important stuff. Interfaces include eSATA and USB 2.0. MSRP is $199.99 for 1TB, $299.99 for 2TB, and $499.99 for 4TB.
Hitachi Internal Hard Drive Kits - Easily boost the capacity and performance of your Mac or PC desktop computer in minutes with a Hitachi Internal Hard Drive Kit. Each premium kit features a proven and reliable high-performance drive, easy installation instructions, a SATA cable and mounting screws. Balancing low-power and performance, Hitachi hard drives come in 5400 RPM and 7200 RPM with up to a 32MB cache buffer. The MSRP of the 2TB, 7,200 RPM Hitachi Internal Hard Drive Kit is $249.99.
Two Levels of Protection - Local Backup and Highly-Secure Online Backup
All Hitachi SimpleTech desktop external hard drives ship with two levels of data backup to better protect and manage personal or professional content. Hitachi Local Backup offers simple wizards to guide users in setting up automatic backups on specific days or dates that is convenient for you. Automatic file selection provides easy identification of particular file types to back upâ€”for example, photos, emails or documentsâ€” regardless of where they are stored on the computerâ€™s drive.
In addition to local backup software, Hitachiâ€™s external drive family comes with 2GB of free online backup space from Hitachi Ultimate Backup. For only $4.95 per month, users can access unlimited capacity and back up all of their files and media collections offsite. Users set up Ultimate Backup once, and it automatically and regularly backs up content behind the scenes to a secure offsite location. All data is encrypted for security using 128-bit SSL encryption while in transit, with an option for a private encryption key. Offsite 448-bit Blowfish encrypted servers are housed by a Fortune 500 company, helping to ensure file protection, longevity, security and peace of mind.Â
Hitachi SimpleTech products are Mac and PC compatible, and feature a three-year warranty.
About Hitachi Global Storage Technologies
Hitachi Global Storage Technologies (Hitachi GST) develops advanced hard disk drives, enterprise-class solid state drives, and innovative external storage solutions and services used to store, preserve and manage the worldâ€™s most valued data. Founded by the pioneers of hard drives, Hitachi GST provides high-value storage for a broad range of market segments, including Enterprise, Desktop, Mobile Computing, Consumer Electronics and Personal Storage. Hitachi GST was established in 2003 with its U.S. headquarters located in San Jose, California. For more information, please visit the companyâ€™s website at www.HitachiGST.com
About Hitachi, Ltd.
Hitachi, Ltd., (NYSE: HIT / TSE: 6501), headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, is a leading global electronics company with approximately 400,000 employees worldwide. Fiscal 2008 (ended March 31, 2009) consolidated revenues totaled 10,000 billion yen ($102.0 billion). The company offers a wide range of systems, products and services in market sectors including information systems, electronic devices, power and industrial systems, consumer products, materials, logistics and financial services. For more information on Hitachi, please visit the company's website at www.Hitachi.com
Hitachi trademarks are authorized for use in countries and jurisdictions in which Hitachi has the right to market the brands. Hitachi is not liable for third partiesâ€™ unauthorized use of Hitachi trademarks. All other trademarks are properties of their respective owners.
One gigabyte (GB) represents one billion bytes and one terabyte (TB) represents one trillion bytes. Actual capacity will vary depending on operating environment and formatting.
Hitachi external hard drives and Hitachi Ultimate Backup serve as an element of an overall backup strategy.
¹Actual storage may vary depending on the compression rate applied. Capacities may not be combined.

GSKill Phoenix Pro: Little Drive, Lotta Performance

SSDs account for just a fraction of the storage market in terms of units shipped, but high consumer interest and significant profit margins have brought manufacturers in droves. GSkill isn't exactly a newcomer to the field, but the sheer number of companies in the dogpile make it more difficult for any single manufacturer to win a definitive lead against the others, at least in terms of technology alone. Today we're reviewing GSkill's 60GB Phoenix Pro. This relatively diminutive drive is meant to offer enthusiasts an attractive balance between price and performance, but the Phoenix Pro is fighting to distinguish itself in a tight field...

GSKill Phoenix Pro: Little Drive, Lotta Performance

Logitech Debuts Z623 2.1 Channel PC Speaker System

In need of new speakers? Logitech has you covered. Whether you're looking for new PC speakers, new TV speakers, or a new set for your studio apartment in general, the new Z623 system could fit the bill. It's a mid-sized 2.1 setup, complete with a small pair of satellites and a robust ported subwoofer. Together, the kit offers 200 watts (RMS) of power, which is plenty for the back to school kid in your life or the bedroom you've needed to fill with sound.

These speakers are pretty simple. Logitech designed them to be plug-and-play in nature, so you won't find too many knobs, bells or whistles. Just a headphone jack, a 3.5mm input and an RCA input, along with dedicated volume and bass knobs on one of the satellites. It's also a wired system, so you can kiss the wireless dreams goodbye, but they do include THX certification for whatever it's worth.

The Z623 system will ship in the U.S. and Europe next month for $149.99, which doesn't seem too lofty given Logitech's history of great PC speakers.

Â THX Certified Logitech Speaker System Z623 Ready to Rock the House

FREMONT, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--For big, bold sound from your music, movies and games, Logitech (SIX:LOGN) (NASDAQ:LOGI) unveiled the THXÂ® Certified LogitechÂ® Speaker System Z623. With this 2.1 system, youâ€™ll hear and feel immersive audio from 200 watts (RMS) of power whether youâ€™re connecting the speakers to a PC or a TV.

Â Â Â â€œWhether youâ€™re listening to rock music, watching a Steven Spielberg flick, or playing your favorite video game, the experience is always richer when you get engrossed in the audioâ€

â€œWhether youâ€™re listening to rock music, watching a Steven Spielberg flick, or playing your favorite video game, the experience is always richer when you get engrossed in the audio,â€ said Mark Schneider, vice president and general manager of Logitechâ€™s audio business unit. â€œThatâ€™s why we built the Logitech Speaker System Z623 â€“ so you can lose yourself in whatever youâ€™re into. For DVD aficionados, music enthusiasts and hardcore gamers, the Z623 system delivers powerful audio for your room. And with THX certification, you know youâ€™re getting the best.â€

So you can set up the system the way you want, Logitech includes all the inputs and cables you need to get great sound from up to three audio devices. With the RCA and 3.5 mm inputs, in addition to the built-in headphone jack, you can be set up in minutes to enjoy great sound from your computer, game console, digital music players, TV or DVD player. And to put you in command, the integrated controls on the right speaker satellite let you dial the volume and bass up or down to customize your listening experience.

Logitech and THX â€“ Delivering Pure Performance

To get you totally immersed in your audio, the Logitech Z623 speakers are THX Certified and professionally engineered to recreate the tonal balance of whatever youâ€™re listening to. To qualify for THX certification, the two-satellite-and-subwoofer Z623 speaker system has to meet strict performance standards. Logitech engineers have worked closely with THX, conducting more than 400 acoustic and electrical bench tests covering frequency response, power output, distortion, noise and overall performance. For the Logitech Z623 speakers, the result is front speakers that deliver dialogue and ambient sounds so clear itâ€™s like youâ€™re on the set of your favorite film. And youâ€™ll hear powerful, deep bass from your subwoofer as it recreates the roar of a jet engine or the sound of a collapsing bridge.

Pricing and Availability

The Logitech Speaker System Z623 is expected to be available in the U.S. and Europe in September for a suggested retail price of $149.99 (U.S.).Â

Ready, Set, Hut! Sony Adds New 3D Bravia TVs to Roster in Time for Football Season

In the coming months, you'll see the New England Patriots return to dynasty form and whup the competition, Brett Favre throw for a billion yards (and nearly as many interceptions), and Peyton Manning assume the fetal position at the first sound of footsteps (yes folks, this Editor is a die-hard Patriots fan). Sony hopes you'll see all the action on one of its new 3D Bravia TVs, particularly "with a number of college and pro football games slated to be broadcast in 3D this fall," as Sony points out.

Sony is manning its front line with three new sets in all, including models measuring 60 inches, 55 inches, and 46 inches. Each one comes with built-in Wi-Fi, LED backlighting with local dimming, Motionflow 240Hz technology, and Bravia Internet Video & Widgets.

"Bravia is optimized to deliver the best possible 3D consumer experience by leveraging the vast knowledge from our theatrical and professional products groups," said Chris Fawcett, vice president of Sony's television business. "3D is driving the growth of the entertainment industry and only Sony is involved in every state of the platform."

Sony says it will bundle two free Blu-ray flicks and a PlayStation Network voucher enabling purchasers to download stereoscopic 3D gaming content on the PS3 with each new Bravia purchase. That should help soften blow of the inflated price tags, though you're still paying a hefty premium as an early adopter of 3D technology.

All three models are available now for $4,700 (KDL-60NX810), $3,700 (KDL-55NX810), and $3,000 (KDL-46NX810).

Contaminated Flash Drive Wreaks Havoc on Pentagon PCs

Like something straight out of a Hollywood action movie, foreign spies managed to swipe sensitive information from the Pentagon by plugging a dirty flash drive into a U.S. military laptop, according to reports. This actually happened some two years ago, but is just now coming to light now that it's been de-classified by Uncle Sam.

"It was a network administrator's worst fear: a rogue program operating silently, poised to deliver operational plans into the hands of an unknown adversary," Deputy Defense Secretary William J. Lynn wrote in an article for Foreign Affairs. "This ... was the most significant breach of U.S. military computers ever and it served as an important wake-up call."

Flash grenade...get it?

While the incident itself is no longer classified, no one is willing to divulge what military secrets might have been stolen from "the most significant breach" ever. However, it was enough for the Defense Department to warrant the ban of all small, high-tech, removable storage devices, including USB thumb drives and media cards, which was only just partially lifted earlier this year.

In the article. Lynn goes on to warn that this remains an ongoing threat.

"A dozen determined computer programmers can, if they find a vulnerability to exploit, threaten the United States' global logistics network, steal its operational plans, blind its intelligence capabilities, or hinder its ability to deliver weapons on target," Lynn wrote.

Sleep tight, America.

Windows 95 Turns 15 Years Old, Retired Since Age 6

Everybody sing it with us now, "Happy birthday to you, happy birthday to you...you live in a zoo," and so forth. More accurately, Windows 95, which just turned 15 years old this week, lives on in infamy as a groundbreaking operating system that was light years ahead of its predecessors, and set the tone -- at least in terms of the GUI -- for future versions to follow.

"If you look at Windows 95, it was a quantum leap in difference in technological capability and stability," Gartner analyst Neil MacDonald said years ago.

While incredibly stale by today's standards, Windows 95 was perhaps the greatest thing to happen to PC gaming at the time, next to the advent of 3D videocards. The OS essentially sat on top of MS-DOS, but for the first time, gaming on Windows was actually viable, and the rest, as they say, is history.

Not without its dark side, Windows 95 also signaled the eventual end of Netscape Navigator. As of Windows 95 OEM Service Release 1, Microsoft began bundling Internet Explorer with its OS, a practice that would contribute greatly to IE's browser market share dominance.

What are you favorite memories of Windows 95? Do you remember what system specs you were rocking back then? Get all nostalgic in the comments section below.

Best suggestions for new speakers
Well guys, it's time to replace my Logitech Z-5450's that I currently have since 2 of the speakers are officially dead. I am not so concerned about getting another 5.1 set up. I would be perfectly content with a really good 2.1 set up. I had purchased for my dad awhile back the Logitech Z-2300's and they are pretty decent. I am thinking about maybe getting a set of those for myself. Anybody have any other suggestions on really good pc speakers.?

3D Films Already Running Out Of Steam

Over the last few years, and particularly since Avatar hit the big screen seven months ago, display manufacturers and the film industry have been yammering to anyone that would listen that 3D technology is The Next Big Thing. Investors and analysts have cautiously warned against embracing the concept that 3D would reinvigorate theaters and profit margins; new evidence suggests consumer interest in 3D films is falling much more quickly than previously expected.

A recent story from Slate dug into revenue data from multiple angles; its finding aren't encouraging. First, let's examine how much of a film's revenue came from 3D theatres during its opening weekend.

If we exclude Step Up 3D and Pirhana 3D, both of which opened in a higher percentage of 3D-equipped theatres, the trend is clearly downward; from Avatar to Incredible Me 3D cinemas fall from generating 71 percent of opening weekend earnings to just 45 percent. This graph doesn't necessarily say much about consumer demand; a fact 3D backers have been quick to point out. When tackled from other angles, however, the available information looks just as bad or worse. When Avatar debuted, a theater owner who upgraded a 2D showing to a 3D showing would have earned himself an additional 70 percent in profit. A theatre owner considering the same tactic when screening Despicable Me would have increased his profits by just 2 percent.

Considered over a longer period of time, even Avatar's rate of return for 3D vs 2D is pitiful.

Graph courtesy of Slate: Put in context, Avatar doesn't even match Beowulf

We recommend you read the whole story if you're interested in the 3D industry; it's an excellent piece. If the trends discussed above continue, 3D films may continue to serve a niche audience of kids, IMAX fans, and a handful of dedicated enthusiasts, but they'll never take over as the dominant medium. Things could changeâ€”the above trends could reverseâ€”but if historical precedent is any indication, they won't.

All Of This Has Happened Before. And Before. And Once Before That.

When most people think of 3D movies they think of the corny films from the 1950s. While it's true that the 1950s represent a sort-of golden age for 3D films, the first stereoscopic movie was actually shown in 1922, nearly 90 years ago. 3D film technology slowly improved over the next 25 years, but the format didn't find mass market acceptance until 1952. From 1952-early 1955 a number of excellent 3D films were released, but the genre suffered from low-quality viewing conditions, misaligned frames (which could cause headaches) and the need to keep both prints in pristine condition. After the craze fell off the technology again went mostly dormant.

New single-strip 3D surfaced in the 1970s, but was used in just a handful of movies, almost all of which were hardcore porn, softcore porn, horror, or all three. Although a limited number of films were made, this period is typically seen as a 3D revival. IMAX revived the use of 3D in the mid-1980s; it was mostly used for specialty shows at places like Disneyworld or in IMAX's various film productions. That brings us up to 2004 and the release of The Polar Express, shown on the graph above.

In every case, consumer interest in 3D viewing has waxed and waned in a manner of years. Each time 3D has surfaced the technology has been substantially betterâ€”a fact that's never prevented the style from sinking back to obscurity a short time later. Despite considerable advances, there's still a significant percentage of people (including myself) who either have vision defects that prevent them from seeing 3D properly or suffer from extreme nausea when attempting to view a film.

Studios have fallen all over themselves to charge premium pricing for 3D films, while theatres, not content with ripping off patrons with $9 tickets and $30 popcorn, tack on a $3-$6 charge of their own. We don't know anything about pricing on 3D Blu-ray films as yet, it's virtually certain that they'll be positioned, at least initially, as higher-priced premium versions of a movie.

Furthermore, Not all 3D films are created equal (Clash of The Titans was particularly bad). This indicates that studios are already adopting 3D as a way to potentially boost sales and make a few more bucks without actually bothering to create a decent-looking movie. We're not alone in seeing such half-assed conversions as a threatâ€”James Cameron has expressed concern that lousy "2.5D" movies could sink the format.

Television manufacturers have it pretty easy. Even if consumers never charge out to buy 3D screens en masse, they'll continue to replace / update their televisions at a regular rate. Once 3D technology is ubiquitous enough, anyone buying a new TV will be buying a 3D TV. The movie industry has no such luxuryâ€”if consumers stop filling 3D theaters and buying premium 3D movies, the golden goose will turn to lead in a hurry. Based on what we're seeing now, that day may be closer than anyone thought.Â

Woopra Desktop Client 1.4 on WinXP

Been discussing this with Woopra via Twitter, but thought I'd post the whole story to the forums anyway.

I was using the Woopra WordPress plugin to track my stats, but it stopped working. So I followed the instructions

to set up the tracking manually. When I tried logging into the desktop client, however, I got the message "Unable

to connect to Woopra".

I checked my username & password by logging into Woopra.com, and could log in fine. The tracking script logs my

visitors, because I can see them from here.

I've disabled my firewall (basic Windows firewall) even though Woopra has been excluded from being blocked & that

did not change the error message of "unable to connect".

I've tried uninstalling & reinstalling the software. No change. I could find no other troubleshooting tips.

Kiara

gia sÆ°
camera quan sát
nha khoa
noi that van phong

Literati E-Reader Boasts 7" Color Display, $159 Or Less Price

Another week, another e-reader. With Kindle sales higher than ever, and the NOOK platform expanding all over the place, it's a wonder there's any room for anyone else. But then again, the e-reader market is clearly booming, and if ever there were a time to try and knock the kings from their thrones, this would be in. As tablets and UMPCs attempt to gain traction in a market currently dominated by E Ink, The Sharper Image is attempting to play the old school card with their new Literati.

The device has a rather unique form factor, relying on a prominent QWERTY keypad, a color LCD display and a curved shaped that definitely reminds us of the newest generation Kindle. The color LCD will obviously hurt battery life somewhat, but it will help the price. The Sharper Image expects to ship this to a multitude of retailers by October for an almost unheardof price: $159 or less. Kirk McLean, co-founder of MerchSource, the company that designed and distributes the Literati under trademark license from The Sharper Image, had this to say: "The majority of eReaders available today are either too expensive with too many features, or the manufacturer has slashed key functionality and overall device quality to lower the price. We designed the Literati from the inside out â€“ starting with the bookstore â€“ to give book lovers exactly what they wanted: a simple, dedicated device that lets them get right to the book. We also involved our retailers early on in the design process. Their feedback informed not only the Literatiâ€™s design aesthetic, but also the consumers experience from the minute they turn it on."

The actual eBook service will be familiar to many, as Kobo was chosen to provide the platform. That Kobo firmware is built right into the Literati, ensuring that readers would have instant access to a bookstore with nearly two million titles, including New York Times bestsellers, new releases, cookbooks, childrenâ€™s books, magazines, newspapers, and more. The 7" screen is also larger than the 6" Kindle, and it includes Wi-Fi for downloading books over the air. Two colors will be available (white and black / brushed metallic), but no 3G version will. Each device will ship with a case, 25 classic book titles, and Kobo software. We doubt it'll be as fluid as the Kindle, but it's hard to argue with the pricing and the color display.

THE LITERATIâ„¢ BY THE SHARPER IMAGEÂ® OPENS NEW CHAPTER ON E-READERS: COLOR, AFFORDABILITY, SIMPLICITY & STYLE
Ships October 2010 To 7,000+ Retail Stores Creating The Broadest Retail Footprint of any eReader

08.25.2010 â€“ Opening a new front in the eReader wars, the Literatiâ„¢ by The Sharper ImageÂ® strikes a blow against the technology elite in favor of booklovers. The new color electronic reader bypasses high prices and feature bloat, offering instead an affordable, stylish and simple device for those who just want to read.

After an extensive two-year design and development process, the Literati (www.LiteratiReader.com) will ship nationwide in early October to more than 7,000 retail stores â€“ including Bed Bath & Beyond, Best Buy, JC Penney, Kohlâ€™s, Macyâ€™s and more â€“ creating the broadest retail footprint of any eReader currently available. Holiday shoppers are expected to benefit from the current eReader price competition and find the Literati priced for $159 or less through rebates, special offers and promos.

â€œThe majority of eReaders available today are either too expensive with too many features, or the manufacturer has slashed key functionality and overall device quality to lower the price,â€ said Kirk McLean, co-founder of MerchSource, the company that designed and distributes the Literati under trademark license from The Sharper Image. â€œWe designed the Literati from the inside out â€“ starting with the bookstore â€“ to give booklovers exactly what they wanted: a simple, dedicated device that lets them get right to the book.â€

â€œThe Literatiâ€™s greatest innovation is its out-of-the-box simplicity,â€ added McLean. â€œWe also involved our retailers early on in the design process. Their feedback informed not only the Literatiâ€™s design aesthetic, but also the consumers experience from the minute they turn it on.â€

Development of the Literati began with the selection of the global eBook service, Kobo, which is backed by US-based Borders and Canadian-based Indigo Books & Music. Koboâ€™s firmware was built right into the Literati, ensuring that readers would have instant access to a bookstore with nearly two million titles, including New York Times bestsellers, new releases, cookbooks, childrenâ€™s books, magazines, newspapers, and more.

Among the key features of the Literati are:
â€¢ A 7-inch color screen (creating one of the few dedicated color eReaders);
â€¢ Intelligent Wi-Fi connectivity;
â€¢ An overall beautiful design aesthetic;
â€¢ Portability and durability; and
â€¢ Inclusion of Koboâ€™s free reading apps for smartphones, tablets, computers and laptops mean that Literati readers can seamlessly switch from device to device and never lose their place thanks to a persistent bookmark.

The Literati will come in two color models: white and black / brushed metallic.

Each Literati includes a quality case, comes preloaded with 25 treasured classics, and includes a special coupon code for automatically loading another 125 pre-selected free titles directly into the Literati userâ€™s account. Readers also can customize their bookshelves, bookmarks and reading experience, and can browse, purchase and download new books with just a few clicks.

â€œConsumers have traditionally looked to The Sharper Image every holiday season for great gift ideas that will exceed the recipientâ€™s expectations,â€ said Federico de Bellegarde, SVP for The Sharper Image Licensing. â€œThat is why we are thrilled to add the Literati, one of the most stylish and affordable new eReaders, to our holiday product offerings this year and we fully expect it to be a great success.â€

â€œKoboâ€™s eReading service is designed to give eReader manufacturers and consumers access to Koboâ€™s global eBook service on a variety of devices,â€ said Todd Humphrey, Vice President of Business Development for Kobo. â€œThe Literati is a great example of a broadly distributed new device using Kobo software to provide a world-class eBook store.â€

The Literati will be available for purchase both in-store and online beginning in October at Bed Bath & Beyond, Best Buy, JC Penney, Kohlâ€™s, Macyâ€™s and others (full list of retail stores will be available at www.LiteratiReader.com). In addition, the Literati will be available for purchase online at SharperImage.com and Overstock.com.

The Future For Hard Drives Is Solid!
To SSD Or Not To SSD. Some excellent reading right HERE, guys!

Canon Intros EOS 60D DSLR: 1080p Movie Mode, 18MP, Vari-Angle LCD

Watch out, Nikon! Canon has a new mid-range DSLR out today, and the specifications look super impressive. The 50D is being replaced today by the EOS 60D, which is a new prosumer DSLR camera that features an 18MP sensor, a flexible rear LCD, in-camera RAW processing and plenty of other specs to make the budding photographer think twice about replacing their current body.

The new 60D is full of firsts; there's a 3" Vari-Angle LCD on the rear, which is a rarity on DSLR cameras these days. There's also the all-new Multi-Control Dial, which places a Multi-Controller and Set button inside the Quick Control Dial. This new control layout streamlines camera navigation for vertical as well as horizontal shooting and enables a cleaner camera design. And if you ever wondered if your voice was heard, the 60D has a new locking mode dial, which makes camera operation more secure by preventing inadvertent changes to the photographerâ€™s selected shooting mode. According to Canon, that was a big request from end users.

There's also a 1080p movie mode, a slew of new image filters, a DIGIC 4 image processor, 9-point Autofocus system and support for SD, SDHC and SDXC memory cards. ISO ranges from 100-6400 (with a boost to 12,800), and the price is quite reasonable given the hardware. It will ship next month to U.S. dealers for $1099, with a kit version including the EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS zoom lens at an estimated retail price of $1,399. So, is the D90 about to get a refresh in order to stand toe-to-toe?

Â Canonâ€™s New EOS 60D Digital SLR Camera Unleashes the Creative Potential of Digital Photography and EOS Full HD Video with New in-Camera Imaging Features

New EOS 60D Offers a Vari-Angle LCD Screen, EOS Full HD Video Recording, In-Camera RAW Processing and Creative Filters and 18-Megapixel Resolution Among Class-Leading Specs

LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--High-quality digital capture and skillful post-processing go hand-in-hand for superior end results, and more control over in-camera image processing means less time editing and more time shooting. At the same time, the overwhelming popularity of Full HD video recording with other current EOS Digital SLRs has led to customer requests for more advanced features such as manual audio level control and flexible LCD screens. Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging, delivers all of these features and more with the new EOS 60D Digital SLR Camera. For the first time on an EOS camera, the EOS 60D DSLR boasts a three-inch Vari-Angle Clear View LCD screen, EOS Full HD video recording with manual overrides including audio level control, and in-camera functionality for RAW image processing plus Creative Filters to manipulate images after taking them. Designed primarily for advanced amateurs, the EOS 60D replaces the EOS 50D and boasts a broad array of new features that make it easier for photographers to add personal creativity to their images. Whether itâ€™s capturing an overhead shot on the Vari-Angle screen at a graduation ceremony, or converting a color image to black and white for a nostalgic look, Canon is delivering in-camera features and functions that empower advanced photographers to capture, display and print the images they want.

Â Â Â â€œall people, regardless of race, religion or culture, harmoniously living and working together into the futureâ€

â€œThe EOS 60D has been designed to offer the image-capture and the Full HD video features customers are looking for as they continue to expand their photographic skills. The exciting new features of the EOS 60D make using a DSLR camera more attractive and easier than ever before. We want everyone to experience the great image quality a Canon DSLR can offer with features and functions that they will appreciate and use,â€ stated Yuichi Ishizuka, executive vice president and general manager, Consumer Imaging Group, Canon U.S.A.

Exciting EOS â€œFirstsâ€

For the first time in the history of the Canon EOS System, the new 60D camera features a large Vari-Angle 3-inch Clear View LCD screen with 1,040,000 dot/VGA resolution plus anti-reflective and smudge-resistant coatings for bright clear viewing from any angle. The new LCD screen is ideal for composing low-angle or overhead shots whether capturing still images or Full HD video clips.

Another first for the EOS system is the EOS 60D cameraâ€™s new Multi-Control Dial, which places a Multi-Controller and Set button inside the Quick Control Dial. This new control layout streamlines camera navigation for vertical as well as horizontal shooting and enables a cleaner camera design. Responding to customer requests, the EOS 60D also features a locking mode dial, which makes camera operation more secure by preventing inadvertent changes to the photographerâ€™s selected shooting mode.

While the photography mantra of â€œget it right in the cameraâ€ still stands true, Canonâ€™s new EOS 60D gives advanced photographers an edge with new in-camera features that enable users to enhance their images without a computer even after they have been shot. For the first time ever in an EOS camera, the EOS 60D features in-camera processing of RAW image files, new reduced resolution image copies, and post-processing creative image filters for exceptional flexibility in digital image rendering.

Â Â Â * In-camera RAW image processing features include Picture Style, White Balance (WB), Color Space, High-ISO Noise Reduction, Peripheral Illumination Correction, linear distortion correction and chromatic aberration correction. These powerful in-camera editing tools will allow photographers in the field to produce optimized images on the spot and generate JPEG files at various resolution and compression settings for immediate sharing, without affecting the original RAW data.
Â Â Â * Another great new feature for photographers-on-the-go is Canonâ€™s new image resizing function. After capturing full resolution or smaller JPEG images, the camera can generate lower-resolution copies using menu commands. New lower-resolution settings include 1920 x 1280 for optimal display on HD televisions, or 720 x 480, ideal for immediate uploading to social networking and other photo sharing web sites. The original high resolution files remain unaffected by the image resizing function.
Â Â Â * Available for the first time in an EOS camera are Canonâ€™s new creative image filters. Familiar to Canon PowerShot users, these fun photo effects help make a great image more dynamic, even after it has been shot. Canon provides four artistic filters that allow photographers to capture an image and then create and manipulate a digital copy of it.
Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â o The Soft Focus effect filter helps dramatize an image and smooth over shiny reflections.
Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â o The Grainy Black and White filter can give a different nostalgic perspective to any shot.
Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â o Canonâ€™s â€œToy Cameraâ€ filter deliberately adds vignetting and color shift for a creative option when shooting a colorful scene.
Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â o Users can also make a scene appear like a small-scale model, simulating the look from a tilt-shift lens, with Canonâ€™s Miniature Effect filter, great when shooting any scene from a high vantage point.

Each of these filters can be applied to a captured still image in-camera to create a second â€œfilteredâ€ JPEG version, leaving the original RAW or JPEG file unaffected.

Another addition to the cameraâ€™s Live View function is Canonâ€™s new Aspect Ratio feature whereby the Live View screen can display cropping lines for 1:1, 16:9 or 4:3 aspect ratios in addition to the standard 3:2 ratio. These cropping lines make it easier to compose images in Live View, and they can help to expedite printing when using Canonâ€™s supplied Digital Photo Professional software. Custom aspect ratios are also applied to JPEG images whether captured directly in-camera or created with the EOS 60Dâ€™s in-camera RAW image processing function.

EOS HD Video: Continuing the Video Paradigm Shift

In addition to its new still capture capabilities, the EOS 60D features Full HD video capture at 1920 x 1080 resolution with selectable frame rates of 24p, 25p or 30p. Native 24p recording helps videographers achieve a more cinema-style look for their footage without the need for post-processing. The EOS 60D builds upon the great video capabilities Canon has introduced in recent DSLR cameras and packs them into a camera photo enthusiasts will love. Full HD video capture, along with selectable cinematic frame rates for both NTSC (National Television System Committee) and PAL (Phase Altering Line) standards, will help the EOS 60D to be the camera of choice among film students and photography students alike.

The new EOS 60D cameraâ€™s movie mode also includes manual controls for exposure as well as manual audio levels in 64 steps, much like the latest firmware update for the EOS 5D Mark II HD-SLR. Users can set audio levels on the rear menu screen before shooting begins; once recording is initialized, audio adjustments are not possible. In addition, Canon has added an electronic Wind Filter to the audio controls within the movie shooting menu.

Canon has also included an in-camera movie editing feature, allowing users to shorten a video file by clipping segments from the beginning or the end, removing unwanted portions without outside software. This feature can dramatically accelerate workflow by reducing the time needed to upload video clips to a computer for further editing and assembly. The EOS 60D also includes Canonâ€™s Movie Crop mode, which allows users to achieve 7x magnification when shooting SD video. Unlike the digital zoom feature found in many compact digital cameras, Canonâ€™s Movie Crop mode crops the image directly from the CMOS sensor at full SD resolution to preserve image quality and still provide additional telephoto power.

Providing access to the right lens for any given shooting scenario, the EOS 60D DSLR camera is compatible with more than 60 Canon EF and EF-S lenses. The EOS 60D DSLRâ€™s video functions are supported by two key proprietary Canon technologies, a DIGIC 4 Imaging Processor and a large APS-Câ€“sized CMOS sensor capturing fine detail and color with an amazing cinematic depth of field. The Canon EOS 60D allows for three video recording modes â€“ Full HD and HD in a 16:9 aspect ratio and Standard Definition (SD) in a 4:3 aspect ratio, all at selectable frame rates. The EOS 60D Digital SLR camera will record Full HD at 1920 x 1080 pixels in selectable frame rates of 24p (23.976), 25p, or 30p (29.97); 720p HD recording at 50p or 60p (59.94) and SD video at frame rates of 50p or 60p (59.94). The EOS 60D features a dedicated button to initiate live view for both video and still shooting. Once engaged, the same dedicated button will start and stop video recording.

Valuable Additional Features

Along with the adjustable LCD screen, the new EOS 60D DSLR features a class-leading 18-megapixel Canon CMOS sensor, a proprietary DIGIC 4 Imaging Processor, a 9-point Autofocus system and Canonâ€™s exclusive iFCL Metering System (Intelligent Focus, Color, Luminance) giving it the power of a professional-level camera. Capable of capturing fast action, the 60D DSLR can shoot full resolution still images up to 5.3-frames per second (fps). The EOS 60D records its images and video clips to the photographerâ€™s choice of SD, SDHC or new extended capacity SDXC memory cards.

The 9-point AF system on the new EOS 60D features f/5.6-sensitive cross-type focusing on all nine focusing points. Like the EOS 7D, the center AF point is a hybrid of standard cross-type and special diagonally-shaped â€œXâ€ cross, with high-precision sensitivity for f/2.8 and larger aperture lenses. Complementing the AF system, Canonâ€™s iFCL metering system, identical to that on the EOS 7D and Rebel T2i, takes color information into account and includes a 63-zone dual-layer metering sensor that reads both illumination and color for consistent results in all lighting conditions, keeping exposure levels stable from shot to shot, even as the light source changes.

Photographers will enjoy shooting in low light thanks to the EOS 60D DSLRâ€™s wide ISO range from 100-6400 (adjustable in 1/3-step increments from ISO 100-6400 and expandable to 12,800) allowing it to capture beautiful images without flash during family milestone events such as wedding ceremonies, while still being equipped with a built-in pop-up flash for shooting the cake cutting ceremony and reception. The EOS 60Dâ€™s pop-up flash features a built-in Integrated Speedlite Transmitter for control of up to two groups of off-camera EOS Speedlites without the need for an external transmitter, providing an economical solution for multi-flash shoots.

Making accurate composition more convenient, the EOS 60Dâ€™s optical viewfinder provides 96 percent coverage along with Canonâ€™s built-in single axis Electronic Level Display, which utilizes the exposure level scale below the picture area to let the photographer know when the camera is level. The Electronic Level Display is also visible on the cameraâ€™s LCD screen in both Live View and Movie modes. An artificial horizon display illustrates horizontal roll, allowing the photographer to know when the camera is in a fixed level position. The entire camera has been durability-tested to 100,000 exposures making the EOS 60D a reliable as well as a powerful imaging tool.

Pricing and Availability

The Canon EOS 60D Digital SLR camera is scheduled to be delivered to U.S. dealers toward the end of September, and will be sold in a body-only configuration at an estimated retail price of $1,099.001. It will also be offered in a kit version with Canonâ€™s EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS zoom lens at an estimated retail price of $1,399.002. The Canon BG-E9 battery grip is scheduled to be available toward the end of September and sell at an estimated retail price of $270.003.Â

460 OC > 5850
So I'm looking to upgrade my videocard and I read somewhere that if you OC a 460 to 800/2000 or some sort it can out perform a stock 5850. Is this true?

Google Turns Gmail Into a Phone

We know that Google is constantly experimenting with new ideas, and rolling them out as they come to fruition. Thus, on Wednesday, we saw another feature come to Gmail, which Google seems to be focusing on as a communications center. While you have been able voice chat to other Gmail users through Gtalk for some time, how about this: voice calls from Gmail?

It would seem to be a natural extension of the voice chat functionality, and Google Voice as well. While you can use Google Voice to make a call, it doesn't use VOIP to do so: it calls your phone and then calls the recipient as well.

Obviously this sort of functionality has a high-profile target, Skype (or maybe two, Fring). Launched from the chat section of Gmail, it shares a lot in common with the Google Voice UI.

Google says that calls to the U.S. and Canada will be free "at least through the end of the year," with other calls billed at their "very low rates." If you have a Google Voice phone number, calls made from Gmail will display that number as the outbound caller ID. You can even receive calls to that number inside Gmail.

Typical of Google service updates, this will roll out gradually. When you get the feature, you'll see "Call Phone" in the chat section of Gmail. You will need to install the voice and video plug-in if you havenâ€™t already. Â Let us know what you think about it, once you get it in your Gmail.

Still confused? Â Check out this Google demo video:

Friday, August 27, 2010

IT News HeadLines (HotHardware) 27/08/2010

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