Question: What Happens if You Cross the LHC Stream with Your Hand?
You've already heard of the Large Hadron Collider (LHC), the biggest, baddest, and highest-energy particle accelerator anywhere on the planet. The LHC sits in a circular tunnel 27km in circumference buried around 50m to 175m beneath the earth. It's purpose isn't to destroy the world, like so many doomsayers thought it would when physicists flipped the power switch, but to collide two counter rotating beams of protons or heavy ions to recreate the conditions just after the theorized Big Bang. By doing so, physicists
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Panasonic's LUMIX GH2 Is Yet Another Micro Four Thirds Option
Another mirrorless option to consider? You got it! Panasonic has used the Photokina trade show in Germany in order to introduce their newest Micro Four Thirds camera, the LUMIX GH2. The body itself does not look too different than the GH1 before it, but the functionality of this new camera is quite impressive. It's the first camera to ship with support for an interchangeable 3D lens (also introduced today), and when used, the lens captures both 3D and 2D copies. Panasonic calls this their most professional-level
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Sigma Introduces SD1 Weather-Resistant DSLR
Sigma is a well-known name in the camera industry, particularly the high-end camera industry. And nothing says high-end quite like 46 megapixels. Though, the effective output of the SD1's 46 megapixels is really just 15.3MP (the math goes something like this: 4800 x 3200 x 3), due to a rare 24x16mm APS-C X3 direct image sensor. Sigma claims that this offers more megapixels than any other camera in the market, and while true, you won't get an image with a pixel size any larger than you would from any other 15.3MP
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Seagate Creates 1.5TB 2.5" Portable Hard Drive
Need a portable hard drive, but aren't willing to get two in order to have enough space? Maybe Seagate can help. The company just launched the industry's first 1.5TB portable HDD, a GoFlex-branded product that gets 1.5TB of space onto a single, portable 2.5" HDD. The case itself is somewhat larger than "typical" 2.5" external HDDs, but it does include a GoFlex dongle on the bottom in order to support GoFlex docking solutions. Another new protocol that this unit supports is USB 3.0. It also ships with a load
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New Tool Shows Global Blocking, Censorship of Google Services
Google has launched a new tool, the Transparency Report, which shows a global picture of both government requests to remove or censor content, as well as traffic patterns, which could indicate where Google is being blocked (or alternatively, where there is an outage). You can click on countries to see more details. Interestingly, the country with the most requests appears to be the U.S. That, however, may not be correct; it's possible that China has more and Google simply can't reveal it. The reason for that
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LaCie Introduces 24" 324i Pro LCD Monitor
When you think of LaCie, you probably first think of the high-fashion storage devices that they are most commonly known for. But Photokina, which is a show based around photography, isn't exactly the best place to launch a hard drive. So, what's new from LaCie then? An LCD monitor, one that's designed for professional video/still employees who need the absolute best monitor to edit on. The new 24" 324i is a pro LCD with a 10-bit P-IPS panel and an anti-glare screen, both of which are designed to show true colors
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An Updated Gmail App Enters the Android Market
Android defragmentation continues. Since there are devices out there, even those newly released (such as the Dell Streak) running older versions of Android, Google has started to decouple key pieces of Android from the main OS. One of those was just released today: Gmail. An updated version of Gmail has been released into the Android Market That's the good news. The bad news is that it is only for those devices running Android 2.2 (Froyo). If you don't have 2.2 yet, you'll have to wait (and hope that your device
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ZoneAlarm Crosses The Line; Adopts Scareware Tactics
If you've surfed the Internet for any length of time, chances are good that you've seen a browser window pop up with a warning that your computer is in DANGER from a whole slew of evil viruses. Such windows, if clicked on, often perform an utterly fake virus scan during which they invariably "detect" infected/contaminated files. Users are then prompted to purchase a registered copy of Antivirus 2010 in order to protect themselves. Certain versions of the program will intercept and hijack online searches, disable
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CyberPower and HH Back To School Blitz Sweepstakes
To pay tribute to the back-to-school season (or just party), in conjunction with our good friends at CyberPower. We're giving away yet another fully loaded, quad-core powered gaming rig! This time around, you could win a complete Intel Core i7-950-based system, with a GeForce GTX 460 graphics card pushing the pixels, Asetek Liquid Cooling, and 6GB of RAM! The complete parts list and breakdown is listed below: * Prize Details: Cyberpower recently launched their Fang Series EVO series featuring
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NVIDIA Finds Its Rhythm: Tegra 3 Imminent with Annual Updates
While there are only a select few devices that currently sport NVIDIA's Tegra processor, the GPU giant obviously hasn't stopped R&D on their series of SoCs. For the uninitiated, the various flavors of Tegra integrate an ARM processor core, with a GPU, and northbridge and southbridge functionality within one chip. Tegra and Tegra 2's low power consumption coupled with HD video playback capabilities--among other features--make them ideal candidates for smartphones, tablets,
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Zotac Touts World's First Quad Display-Capable GTX 460 Card
Let's forget for a moment that ATI's Eyefinity technology can drive up to six displays from a single compatible videocard. Things are a little a different on Nvidia's side of the tracks, so we can understand Zotac's giddy announcement that they've gone and launched the world's first GeForce GTX 460 graphics card capable of pushing pixels on up to four simultaneous independent displays. That's groovy. "Quadruple-display computing is becoming more popular for gaming and office use. With the new Zotac GeForce GTX
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Survey Shows Netflix Poses Threat To Paid TV
A recent survey may serve as a wakeup call to broadcast networks and cable companies that their subscriber base may soon be slipping away. According to a Credit Suisse survey, approximately 30 percent of Netflix users between the ages of 18 and 24 are using Netflix's Watch Instantly service to watch TV and movies instead of paying for cable or satellite TV service. The survey also revealed that 37 percent of Netflix subscribers between the ages of 25 and 34 are doing the same. “Netflix’s low cost,
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Survey Shows Netflix Poses Threat To Paid TV
A recent survey may serve as a wakeup call to broadcast networks and cable companies that their subscriber base may soon be slipping away. According to a Credit Suisse survey, approximately 30 percent of Netflix users between the ages of 18 and 24 are using Netflix's Watch Instantly service to watch TV and movies instead of paying for cable or satellite TV service. The survey also revealed that 37 percent of Netflix subscribers between the ages of 25 and 34 are doing the same. “Netflix’s low cost, subscription streaming service (with improving content) is our biggest worry and could become ‘good enough’ for consumers with moderate income and TV usage to use as a substitute for pay TV,†said Credit Suisse’s Spencer Wang and a team of analysts.
Of course, Netflix isn't the only streaming option available today. Other services such as Xbox Live, the PlayStation Network, and Hulu Plus have potential to cut into cable and satellite companies' subscriber base as well. Have you cut the cord yet?
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CyberPower and HH Back To School Blitz Sweepstakes
To pay tribute to the back-to-school season (or just party), in conjunction with our good friends at CyberPower. We're giving away yet another fully loaded, quad-core powered gaming rig! This time around, you could win a complete Intel Core i7-950-based system, with a GeForce GTX 460 graphics card pushing the pixels, Asetek Liquid Cooling, and 6GB of RAM!The complete parts list and breakdown is listed below:
 |
* Prize Details: Cyberpower recently launched their Fang Series EVO series featuring Intel Core I processors and several high-end gaming chassis for each model. The main focus for the Fang EVO is cooling and they've loaded the lineup with a new cooling kit that features 240mm and 360mm radiators that can be hooked up to cool both the CPU and multiple GPUs.  For our giveaway, we’ve chosen the EVO Viper that uses Azza’s new Hurrican 2000 chassis and includes Asetek’s 240mm liquid cooling kit.
This give-away is a bit different than the others we've run in the past. To be entered into this sweepstakes, please follow the guidelines below...
This give-away is a bit different than the others we've run in the past. To be entered into this sweepstakes, please follow the guidelines below...
1) Become a fan of HotHardware’s official Facebook fan page
2) Become a fan of Cyberpower Inc’s official Facebook fan page
3) Comment on the contest post on each of the respective facebook fan pages
4) Share either post on your personal facebook page
5) Take a screenshot of your facebook page with the shared story
6) Submit the screenshot to contest@cyberpowerpc.com with the subject “Fang EVO Viper Sweepstakesâ€
2) Become a fan of Cyberpower Inc’s official Facebook fan page
3) Comment on the contest post on each of the respective facebook fan pages
4) Share either post on your personal facebook page
5) Take a screenshot of your facebook page with the shared story
6) Submit the screenshot to contest@cyberpowerpc.com with the subject “Fang EVO Viper Sweepstakesâ€
And of course, being active on the news and forum conversations WILL get you noticed!
The contest will run through September 30 at which point we'll announce the winner. That's not a lot of time, so be sure to enter quickly!
This is a great chance for to you to win a custom, powerful new system. Now go get in the running! Good Luck!
This is a great chance for to you to win a custom, powerful new system. Now go get in the running! Good Luck!
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Win the BEAST! HotHardware Skulltrail Give-Away!
We’ve got some exciting news for you all today! To coincide with Intel’s official Skulltrail announcement that hit the news wire the other day, we’re announcing a sweepstakes of our own where you could win a full Skulltrail-based system, complete with dual graphics cards and a super-fast 10,000 RPM hard drive. We’re talking eight-cores of benchmark busting performance here, and it could be all yours!HotHardware has partnered up with Intel to assemble a complete Skulltrail rig that we’ll be giving away to a randomly selected contributor to our on-line forum and discussion systems. The complete break-down of components in the system includes:
  | Processors: Intel Core 2 Extreme QX9775 x 2 Motherboard: Intel D5400XS ‘Skulltrail’ Memory: 2GB DDR2 FB-DIMM Memory Graphics: GeForce 8800 GT 512MB x 2 (SLI) Optical Storage: Lite-On 20X DVD-RW with Lightscribe Hard Drive: Western Digital Raptor 150GB Power Supply: Ultra X3 1000 Watt Case: Gigabyte 3D Aurora (Black) |
To be entered into the sweepstakes, you’ve got to be a registered, active member of our forum and a resident of the United States. If you’re not already a member, you can sign up quickly and easily (and for free), right here.
From this point forward, we’ll be monitoring discussions on the site and will be randomly selecting a winner based on community involvement and contribution. To increase your chances of being a winner, sign up for our HotHardware RSS News Alerts and we'll toss your name into the mix for double credit! The sweepstakes will run through to the end of the month at which point we'll pick the winner (Feb. 29).
This is a huge opportunity for to you to win Intel's BEAST of a system. Good Luck!
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Location, Networking, Messaging APIs
Verizon and LOC-AID have teamed up to provide 20 location, messaging and network based applications to developers. Verizon have got some well known companies to work with them on this, but I have no doubt that it is LOC-AID that will emerge as the leader in the area of Location-as-a Service APIs. Go to the LOC-AID Developer zone to get started - http://developer.loc-aid.com/getit.
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Zotac Touts World's First Quad Display-Capable GTX 460 Card
Let's forget for a moment that ATI's Eyefinity technology can drive up to six displays from a single compatible videocard. Things are a little a different on Nvidia's side of the tracks, so we can understand Zotac's giddy announcement that they've gone and launched the world's first GeForce GTX 460 graphics card capable of pushing pixels on up to four simultaneous independent displays. That's groovy."Quadruple-display computing is becoming more popular for gaming and office use. With the new Zotac GeForce GTX 460 3DP we can deliver quadruple-display computing with Nvidia Fermi architecture from a single graphics card, a world's first," said Carsten Berger, marketing director, Zotac International.
Zotac's GeForce GTX 460 3DP comes equipped with three DisplayPorts and a single dual-link DVI connector, and together they support a combined resolution of up to 6400x1200, or up to 4800x1200 using just the DisplayPorts.
Everything else is pretty much standard fare for a GeForce GTX 460 part. The card boasts clockspeeds of 710MHz (GPU), 1420MHz (shaders), and 3600MHz (memory). No word yet on price or availability.
ZOTAC® Announces World’s First Quadruple-Display Capable GeForce® GTX 460 Graphics Card
- New ZOTAC GeForce® GTX 460 3DP graphics card
- ZOTAC GeForce® GTX 460 3DP
- Engine clock: 710 MHz
- 336 Unified Shaders
- Shader clock: 1420 MHz
- 1GB GDDR5 memory
- 256-bit memory interface
- Memory clock: 3600 MHz
- Prince of Persia®: The Forgotten Sands™ game bundle
- Dual-link DVI & 3 DisplayPort outputs
- PCI Express 2.0 interface (Compatible with 1.1)
- Microsoft DirectX® 11 with Shader Model 5.0 and DirectCompute support
- OpenGL® 4.0 compatible
- NVIDIA® CUDA™ & PhysX® ready
- NVIDIA® SLI ready (2-way)
- NVIDIA® PureVideo™ HD technology
- ZOTAC® Boost Premium software bundle included
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LaCie Introduces 24" 324i Pro LCD Monitor
When you think of LaCie, you probably first think of the high-fashion storage devices that they are most commonly known for. But Photokina, which is a show based around photography, isn't exactly the best place to launch a hard drive. So, what's new from LaCie then? An LCD monitor, one that's designed for professional video/still employees who need the absolute best monitor to edit on.
The new 24" 324i is a pro LCD with a 10-bit P-IPS panel and an anti-glare screen, both of which are designed to show true colors and help creative professionals fight less with printing companies due to colors not matching up. It has a 102% NTSC and 98% AdobeRGB color gamut rating, backlight stabilization, plenty of connection options and a tilting stand for ergnomics. Of course, you can also spring for a hood and blue eye colorimeter, but the base price is listed at $1249.
LaCie Delivers Next Generation 24†Display with a Premium IPS Panel
LaCie today announced the latest addition to its line of professional displays, the LaCie 324i – featuring a 10-bit P-IPS LCD panel. An ideal monitor for prepress, illustration, web design, and photographic workflows, the LaCie 324i delivers uniform and accurate colors thanks to its wide gamuts and backlight stabilization.
Lifelike Clarity
The LaCie 324i P-IPS panel offers a realistic presentation without discoloration or inconvenient pattern distortions. Distinguished by its impressive gamut spectrum, the LaCie 324i color is rated at 102% NTSC and 98% AdobeRGB. With wide gamuts that are not disturbed by irregular patterns, digital artists can rely on true colors that maintain the integrity of their work.
“For years, LaCie has designed monitors for digital artists who demand color precision,†said Ahcene Tirane, LaCie Product Manager for Displays. “From concept to creation, LaCie developed the 324i with the highest level of color accuracy, and with a firm belief that when professionals have a tool that enhances their workflow, they can deliver their best work.â€
Enhanced Workflow
Designed for versatility in any office or studio, the LaCie 324i 178° viewing angle provides the same visual experience and quality from numerous axes, without distorting the picture or losing color. Further, its anti-glare panel guarantees that you will not have to worry about unwanted reflections often found on glossy panels.
With 24 inches of usable workspace and a native 1920x1200 resolution, users can enjoy two projects at once, with room for toolbars and palettes. If Landscape is not the desired display mode, simply pivot the LaCie 324i 90° to Portrait mode. The multifunction stand glides effortlessly when raising, lowering, swiveling, tilting, or pivoting the display.
Additionally, the 324i comes with a 3-year Gold Protection Plan that includes a robust 3-year advance care warranty. If you experience a problem, LaCie will ship a replacement monitor immediately – so you never have to worry about downtime.
Absolute Accuracy
In addition to its 1000:1 contrast ratio and backlight stabilization – for the brightest whites and darkest blacks – the LaCie 324i can be further enhanced with the optional LaCie blue eye calibration tool. The included software also provides prepress professionals with the option to enhance soft proofing accuracy using test and report features approved by UGRA (the Swiss Center of Competence for Media and Printing Technology). Â
Enhanced Connectivity
The LaCie 324i has four display and video inputs, making it compatible with most computers and video devices. Use DisplayPort or DVI-D for connecting the monitor to a computer and HDMI or component for video sources. The 324i also has three USB 2.0 ports for a convenient USB hub to your computer. All cables are neatly arranged in the 324i's handy cable manager.
Availability
The LaCie 324i P-IPS LCD Monitor is available from the LaCie Store Online or through LaCie Color Partner and LaCie Reseller+, starting at the suggested retail price of $1249,00. For more information, visit www.lacie.com.
About LaCie
Located in the US, Canada, Japan, Australia, Europe, Singapore and Hong Kong, LaCie is the leading manufacturer of computer peripherals for PC, Apple, and Linux users. LaCie creates external storage solutions and color monitors that help professionals and everyday users easily manage their digital lives. LaCie has differentiated its products through original designs and leading-edge technology. Established in France in 1989, LaCie is listed on Euronext under FR0000054314 (LAC). For more information, visit www.lacie.com.
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NVIDIA Finds Its Rhythm: Tegra 3 Imminent with Annual Updates
While there are only a select few devices that currently sport NVIDIA's Tegra processor, the GPU giant obviously hasn't stopped R&D on their series of SoCs. For the uninitiated, the various flavors of Tegra integrate an ARM processor core, with a GPU, and northbridge and southbridge functionality within one chip. Tegra and Tegra 2's low power consumption coupled with HD video playback capabilities--among other features--make them ideal candidates for smartphones, tablets, and other mobile devices. One problem, up to this point, however, is the lack of products on the market that are actually powered by Tegra. Nevertheless, the latest news from San Jose, where NVIDIA is currently holding its GPU Technology Conference, is the surprising revelation of annual Tegra updates from here on out. NVIDA's charismatic CEO Jen-Hsun Huang underscored this in a panel discussion today and we were on hand to capture footage."Tegra 2 is just our first entry (into the mobile market), Tegra 3 is almost done, Tegra 4 is being built. Just think in the context of the NVIDIA rhythm. Every single year, there will be a new Tegra." - Jen-Hsun Huang, NVIDIA CEO
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Panasonic's LUMIX GH2 Is Yet Another Micro Four Thirds Option
Another mirrorless option to consider? You got it! Panasonic has used the Photokina trade show in Germany in order to introduce their newest Micro Four Thirds camera, the LUMIX GH2. The body itself does not look too different than the GH1 before it, but the functionality of this new camera is quite impressive. It's the first camera to ship with support for an interchangeable 3D lens (also introduced today), and when used, the lens captures both 3D and 2D copies. 
Panasonic calls this their most professional-level DSLM yet, and it can even capture full HD 1920 x 1080 videos in smooth 60i, doubling the sensor output from 25p/24p to 50p/60p. The camera also supports 1080/24p native mode at 24 Mbps, the highest in AVCHD format, along with Touch Auto Focus, an HDMI output, 16MP sensor, Venus Engine FHD processor, 3" LCD, and Live View at 60 frames-per-second.
The Panasonic LUMIX GH2 will be available in black and silver models in early December in three different kit options for a suggested retail price of: $899.95 (Body only); $999.95 (Body with lens LUMIX G VARIO 14-42 mm / F3.5-5.6 ASPH. / MEGA O.I.S.); $1,499.95 (Body with lens LUMIX G VARIO HD 14-140mm/F4.0-5.8 ASPH./MEGA O.I.S.).
Panasonic Introduces LUMIX GH2 - Hybrid Touch-Control Digital Camera Compatible With World's First(1) Interchangeable 3D Lens
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The Panasonic LUMIX GH2's Speed Allows Full HD Video Recording and Professional-Level Photo Capabilities; While Features Like Touch-Screen Operation Make it Easy for Beginners
SECAUCUS, N.J., Sept. 21 /PRNewswire/ -- Panasonic today announced the LUMIX DMC-GH2, a hybrid touch-control camera featuring full High Definition (HD) video recording and compatibility with the world's first(1) interchangeable 3D lens. The LUMIX GH2 elevates the company's revolutionary LUMIX G Series, its line of Digital Single Lens Micro (DSLM) cameras that deliver professional-level features and performance in a compact and easy-to-use camera body.
Compatible with the Micro Four Thirds System standard, the lightweight LUMIX GH2 is newly designed with an easy-to-hold grip and includes a refined image processing engine and sensor that delivers fast, sharp photos, full HD video recording, and the ability to take 3D photos with Panasonic's new interchangeable 3D lens. In addition, the intuitive touch-control operation provides ease of use in shooting and playback.
"The LUMIX GH2 is Panasonic's most professional-level DSLM camera yet, giving users the option to be more creative than ever, from recording video in full HD with cinematic effects to taking 3D photos with our new lens," said Darin Pepple, Senior Product Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. "At the same time, its compact size can fit in the palm of your hand and its faster auto focus and intuitive touch-control shooting make it possible for even new photographers to literally point-and-shoot for stunning images."
The LUMIX GH2 combines features for both the videographer and photographer, making it a true hybrid digital camera. A dedicated button on the top of the camera lets users instantly record videos while shooting photos without changing any extra settings. Building on the momentum of its successful predecessor, the LUMIX GH1 – the LUMIX GH2 can now record full HD 1920 x 1080 videos in smooth 60i, doubling the sensor output from 25p/24p to 50p/60p(2). The camera also supports 1080/24p native mode at 24 Mbps, the highest in AVCHD format, for richly expressive video. Other video features in the LUMIX GH2 include:
   * New Cinema mode: Record video with rich cinema-like gradation. Added as an option of popular Film mode.
   * New Variable Movie mode: Record video in variable frame rate – 80, 160, 200 and 300 percent – speeding up or slowing frames for more creative videos.
   * Touch auto focus (AF): Point at the subject on the screen and shift focus to make it stand out against the background.
   * Still photos at (16:9): Instantly take a 14MP photo, while recording videos and also save a frame of video as a photo during playback.
   * Record high quality sound: With Dolby® Digital Stereo Creator and optional accessory Stereo Microphone (DMW-MS1).
   * HDMI output: Monitor images on a separate screen while still recording video.
Speed is at the core of the LUMIX GH2, with technological advancements including a new 16.05-megapixel multi-aspect LIVE MOS sensor for higher image resolution and improved signal-to-noise ratio. The LIVE MOS sensor also allows high speed burst shooting at 5 frames per second in full resolution using a mechanical shutter. Working together with the Live MOS sensor, the new Venus Engine FHD processor manages multiple signals at a high speed, making it possible to record high resolution consecutive shots and full HD video recording. The Venus Engine FHD also features advanced signal processing capabilities, including: separation of chromatic and luminance noise for clear images, prevention of color mixture and selective noise reduction for more crisp photos and video recording. The LUMIX GH2 also features faster AF, reducing detection time for focusing to approximately 0.1 second(3) by doubling the drive speed from 60 frames per second to 120 frames per second.
The LUMIX GH2 features intuitive touch-control operation, made popular with the LUMIX G2 for its outstanding usability in shooting and playback. The LUMIX GH2 combines the easy-to-see free-angle Intelligent LCD with the newly developed Multi Aspect Wide Screen LVF (Live View Finder) for more comfortable shooting from any angle.
The LUMIX GH2's large 3.0-inch 460,000-dot high-resolution Intelligent LCD allows users to:
   * Touch the subject on the LCD to adjust AF. Once a user locks onto a subject, the camera tracks the subject with AF tracking even if it moves. Then, with a touch of the screen, users can select the area of focus appropriate mode (e.g., portrait) and even enlarge an image (1x, 5x or 10x) by dragging it on the screen.
   * Touch and view the screen from any angle, rotating the screen 180 degrees side to side and tilting it 270 degrees up and down for approximately 100 percent of field of view.
   * Change menu settings quickly by touching the screen, shortcutting the time it would take to navigate using standard cursors. Â
   * Touch thumbnails to play back images one by one or drag images over the screen with a finger to browse the collection of photos, as though flipping the pages of a book.
   * View primary colors – red, blue and green – 25 percent more vividly when compared to the GH1, thanks to a newly designed LCD and LED backlight.
The new large, bright Multi Aspect Wide Screen LVF in the LUMIX GH2 features:
   * A display area of 1,530,000-dot equivalent resolution.
   * 100 percent field of view and 0.71x magnification.
   * Reduced color breakup by half for stunning images at any angle.
   * Live View at 60 frames-per-second because of the Live MOS sensor, which processes signals directly from the image sensor to the LCD in real time. This allows the user to check the framing accurately from corner to corner when composing a shot.
Continuing Panasonic's record of 3D technology leadership, the LUMIX GH2 can shoot in 3D (35mm camera equivalent: 65mm(4)) when used with the world's(1) first interchangeable 3D lens LUMIX G 12.5mm / F12 (H-FT012)(5), also announced today. Panasonic's new compact 3D lens for the LUMIX G Micro System features two optical systems installed within the diameter of the lens mount, creating stereo images from the left and right lenses that are then processed with a 3D image processing system. This new compact 3D-capable interchangeable lens is easy to handle and allows instant 3D shooting, without distortion or time lag between left and right images – even when shooting moving objects. The 3D images taken on this camera, even close-up shots, are easily viewed on Panasonic's 3D VIERA® televisions.
The LUMIX GH2 includes 22 different shooting modes for creative shooting options. When shooting video, users can choose from ten different modes, including the new Cinema mode, and set the contrast, sharpness and saturation levels for each. For still photos the LUMIX GH2 features the My Color mode with a total of seven preset effects – Expressive, Retro, Pure, Elegant, Monochrome, Dynamic Art, and Silhouette – while also keeping the Custom mode, which lets users manually set the color, brightness and saturation levels and store their favorite settings. With the Full-time Live View function, users can see how these settings will affect the images before they shoot. The LUMIX GH2 also features more shortcut buttons for frequently used settings.
In addition to the advanced functions that will satisfy experienced photographers, the LUMIX GH2 is easy enough for beginners to use comfortably because of Panasonic's iA (Intelligent Auto) mode, a popular setting in the LUMIX point-and-shoots that automatically engages features and settings for optimal image quality by detecting the shooting environment. The LUMIX GH2 features new additions to the iA mode including Intelligent D-range Control for optimized exposure of an image and Intelligent Resolution for better-balanced sharpness in images for printing at larger sizes.
After users capture images using the LUMIX GH2, it's easy for them to enjoy their photos or HD videos easily on a Panasonic VIERA HD television. Simply remove the SD Memory Card from the camera and insert it into the VIERA Image Viewer (SD Memory Card slot) on a VIERA HDTV or Panasonic Blu-ray disc player(6) to play the content. Alternatively, an optional mini HDMIâ„¢ cable can be used to output still photos and video recorded with the LUMIX GH2 directly to the Panasonic HDTV via VIERA Linkâ„¢. Using the VIERA HDTV's remote control, users can take advantage of the LUMIX GH2's advanced playback and slideshow features. Photos taken with Panasonic's new interchangeable 3D lens can also be viewed in 3D via the 3D Image Viewer.
Software bundled with the LUMIX GH2 includes:
   * PHOTOfunSTUDIO 6.0 BD Edition to easily organize photos and movies.
   * SILKYPIX® Developer Studio 3.1 SE for RAW file development.
   * Super LoiloScope (trial version) for high speed HD movie editing.
The LUMIX G Series continues to expand its variety of interchangeable lenses with a total of 11 exclusive lenses, three announced today: the world's first(1) interchangeable 3D lens LUMIX G 12.5mm / F12 (H-FT012), a new single focal length lens LUMIX G 14mm / F2.5 ASPH (H-H014), and new telephoto zoom lens LUMIX G VARIO 100-300mm / F4.0-5.6 / MEGA O.I.S. (H-FS100300).
In addition to LUMIX G lenses, the LUMIX GH2 and other LUMIX G Series digital cameras can use any interchangeable lens that complies with the Four Thirds System standard via an optional mount adaptor DMW-MA1 and with the prestigious Leica M/R Lenses via DMW-MA2M or MA3R(7). Additional accessories include external flashes, filters, a stereo microphone, a remote shutter, HDMI mini cables and a variety of stylish straps and bags. For more information on LUMIX digital cameras and all available accessories, visit: www.panasonic.com/lumix.Â
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Sigma Introduces SD1 Weather-Resistant DSLR
Sigma is a well-known name in the camera industry, particularly the high-end camera industry. And nothing says high-end quite like 46 megapixels. Though, the effective output of the SD1's 46 megapixels is really just 15.3MP (the math goes something like this: 4800 x 3200 x 3), due to a rare 24x16mm APS-C X3 direct image sensor. Sigma claims that this offers more megapixels than any other camera in the market, and while true, you won't get an image with a pixel size any larger than you would from any other 15.3MP camera.Still, the hardware is impressive. There's a TRUE (Three-layer Responsive Ultimate Engine) II image processing engine, magnesium alloy casing, weather-resistance, and the ability to be called the company's flagship DSLR. They also introduced a few new lenses to go alongside of it, not to mention it having a 3" LCD, CF card support, compatibly with over 40 Sigma lenses, etc. No price is given quite yet, but we're certain it will be lofty. Knowing Sigma's reputation, anyway.
Sigma Corporation Announces Sigma SD1 Flagship Digital SLR Camera With 46-MP Resolution
Company Also Announces Addition of Two Lenses With OS Capabilities at Photokina 2010
RONKONKOMA, NY--(Marketwire - September 21, 2010) -Â Sigma Corporation of America (www.sigmaphoto.com), a leading researcher, developer, manufacturer and service provider of some of the world's most impressive lines of lenses, cameras and flashes, today announced the new Sigma SD1 Digital SLR Camera, Sigma's flagship digital SLR model, along with two upgraded lenses and two new electronic flashes, at Photokina 2010 in Cologne, Germany.
The Sigma SD1 incorporates a 46-megapixel (4,800x3,200x3 layers) 24x16mm APS-C X3 direct image sensor, offering more megapixels than any other DSLR currently on the market.
In addition, the Sigma SD1 incorporates "TRUE (Three-layer Responsive Ultimate Engine) II" image processing engine which, in combination with the 46-MP sensor, ensures that high resolution images are processed quickly with high definition and a smooth and subtle graduation of color. The new magnesium alloy makes this camera lightweight and nice to handle.
"We are extremely excited to announce the Sigma SD1 digital SLR camera, which offers photographers unrivaled image quality and represents a breakthrough in image sensor technology," said Mark Amir-Hamzeh, general manager of Sigma Corporation of America. "The Sigma SD1 offers photographers full RGB color capture and sharper images than conventional image sensors, with a three-dimensional effect."
Sigma is offering weather-resistance for the first time. The Sigma SD1 and the two new lenses are the first Sigma products to feature a weather-resistant design, offering protection from dust and water entering the camera and lenses.
Sigma also announced the new Sigma APO 120-300mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM which is the successor to the APO 120-300mm F2.8 EX DG HSM introduced in July 2005. This new version offers Sigma's OS (Optical Stabilization) technology making handheld photography for this extended focal length possible. The latest optical design includes FLD glass and is weather-resistant.; all still in a compact size.
The new Sigma APO MACRO 150mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM, a large aperture medium telephoto macro lens and the successor to the APO MACRO 150mm F2.8 EX DG HSM introduced in October 2004, incorporates Sigma's Optical Stabilization function offering the use of shutter speeds approximately 4 stops slower than would be otherwise possible. The weather-resistant feature is for convenient outdoor use. The size remains compact.
Sigma also announced the new Electronic Flash EF-610 DG ST, which is designed to work with the latest TTL auto exposure systems of all popular digital and film SLR cameras. Also announced was the new Electronic Flash EF-610 DG SUPER, offering illumination that covers a focal length from 24mm to 105mm.
Here is a closer look at Sigma's new products announced at Photokina:
Sigma SD1
The Sigma SD1 is Sigma's flagship digital SLR model, adopting a lightweight yet solid magnesium alloy for its body and O-ring sealing connections to make a weather-resistant design throughout for use in harsh conditions. The Sigma SD1 incorporates a 24x16mm APS-C X3 direct image sensor and dual "TRUE (Three-layer Responsive Ultimate Engine) II" image processing engines. The direct image sensor featured in the SD1 captures all primary RGB colors at each and every pixel location, ensuring the capture of full and complete color. Using three silicon-embedded layers of photo detectors, stacked vertically to take advantage of silicon's ability to absorb red, green and blue light at different respective depths, it efficiently reproduces color more accurately, and offers sharper resolution, pixel for pixel, than any conventional image sensor. Since color moiré is not generated, the use of a low-pass filter is not required, meaning light and color, generated by the 46-megapixel APS-C X3 direct image sensor is captured with a three-dimensional feel.
The unique image processing algorithm of the dual TRUE II image processing engine provides high resolution power and reproduces high definition images with richly graduated tones. The SD1 adopts the TYPE 1 CF Card, and is compatible with the UDMA enabling fast processing of large amounts of data. The autofocus system features an 11 point shifted twin cross type sensor, which improves AF accuracy. The SD1 features a 3.0 inch TFT color monitor. This 460,000 pixel resolution LDC monitor benefits from a wide viewing angle, making it easy to check focusing and composition. The SD1 can be used with over 40 Sigma lenses such as ultra-wide, ultra-telephoto, macro and fisheye. The Sigma SD1 is scheduled to be available for shipment in February 2011.
For more information about the Sigma SD1 digital SLR, visit www.sigma-sd.com/SD1
Sigma APO 120-300mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM
This large aperture zoom lens features Sigma's OS (Optical Stabilization) function and weather-resistant design throughout for use in harsh conditions. One SLD and two FLD glass elements are used for maximum correction of chromatic aberrations. The super multi-layer lens coating reduces flare and ghosting, and the lens design incorporates an inner focusing and inner zooming system to ensure sharp images throughout the entire zoom range. Improved optical performance provides excellent correction of sagittal coma flare, and ensures ultra-high resolution, comparable to a fixed focal length lens. The OS function offers the use of shutter speeds approximately four stops slower than would otherwise be possible. This system enables hand held tele-photography. Incorporation of HSM (Hyper Sonic Motor) ensures quiet and high speed AF, while allowing full-time manual focus override. The addition of the optional APO TELE CONVERTER produces an ultra telephoto zoom lens with AF.
Sigma APO MACRO 150mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM
The Sigma APO MACRO 150mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM is a large aperture medium telephoto macro lens which incorporates Sigma's original Optical Stabilizer function. The successor to the APO MACRO 150mm F2.8 EX DG HSM, introduced to the market in October 2004, offers the latest optical design technology and weather-resistance throughout for use in harsh conditions. A floating focusing system moves two different lens groups in the optical path to different positions. This system compensates for astigmatic aberration and spherical aberration and provides extremely high optical performance from infinity to 1:1 Macro. Three SLD (Special Low Dispersion) glass elements provide excellent correction of all types of aberrations and the Super Multi-Layer Coating reduces flare and ghosting. This lens has superior peripheral brightness and provides sharp and high contrast images even at the maximum apertures. Equipped with Sigma's own proprietary OS (Optical Stabilizer) function, this lens offers the use of shutter speeds approximately four stops slower than would otherwise be possible. The HSM (Hyper Sonic Motor) ensures quiet and high speed autofocus as well as full-time manual focus capability. This lens has a rounded nine-blade diaphragm creating a smooth blur to the out-of-focus areas of the image. It is also possible to use this lens with Sigma's optional APO Tele Converters.
Electronic Flash EF-610 DG SUPER
The EF-610 DG SUPER features a powerful Guide Number of 61/m (200/ft) and is designed to work with the latest TTL auto exposure systems of all popular digital and film SLR cameras. The autozoom function automatically sets the optimum illumination angle in accordance with the lens' focal length in a range from 24mm to 105mm. When the built-in Wide Panel is used, the flash can cover an angle of 17mm. For bounce flash, the flashgun head can be tilted up by 90 degrees, to the left by 180 degrees, or to the right by 90 degrees. It can also be tilted down by 7 degrees allowing ease of use for close-up photography. Among the advanced features of this flash is a modeling flash function, multi-pulse flash, TTL wireless flash, FP (high speed) flash, rear-curtain Synchro flash and manual flash model, which allows the photographer to set the flash power level by up to eight stops. The Auto Power-Off function automatically shuts off the LCD panel to help save battery power. When the flashgun is fully-charged, a confirmation 'ready' light will be emitted.
Sigma Electronic Flash EF-610 DG ST
The Sigma Electronic Flash EF-610 DG ST features a powerful Guide Number of 61 and is designed to work with the latest auto exposure systems of all popular digital and film SLR cameras. It features TTL automatic flash exposure control for easy operation. The autozoom function automatically sets the optimum illumination angle in accordance with the lens' focal length in a range from 24mm to 105mm. When the built-in Wide Panel is used, the flash can cover the angle of 17mm. For bounce flash, the flashgun head can be tilted up by 90 degrees, to the left by 180 degrees, or to the right by 90 degrees. It can also be tilted down by 7 degrees allowing ease of use for close-up photography. In addition to automatic mode, the flashgun features a manual flash mode, making it possible to set the flash power to full or 1/16. When the flashgun is fully charged, a confirmation 'ready' light will be emitted and the flash exposure level can be checked through the camera's viewfinder. Other features incorporated into this flashgun include the Auto Power-Off function to help save battery power.
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Seagate Creates 1.5TB 2.5" Portable Hard Drive
Need a portable hard drive, but aren't willing to get two in order to have enough space? Maybe Seagate can help. The company just launched the industry's first 1.5TB portable HDD, a GoFlex-branded product that gets 1.5TB of space onto a single, portable 2.5" HDD. The case itself is somewhat larger than "typical" 2.5" external HDDs, but it does include a GoFlex dongle on the bottom in order to support GoFlex docking solutions.Another new protocol that this unit supports is USB 3.0. It also ships with a load of Paramount films, which can be unlocked and view instantly via an online key. Seagate expects this drive to perform around 10x faster than your portable USB 2.0 drive, and it ships with software that allows it to load on the Mac and Pc. It's available starting today in black for $249.99, which isn't that bad considering the space. Now, we wait for 2TB on a single 2.5" disc...surely we aren't far off.
 Seagate Introduces Industry’s First 1.5TB Portable External Drive
New FreeAgent® GoFlex™ Ultra-Portable External Drive Packs a Punch with Unprecedented Amount of Storage, Blazingly Fast USB 3.0 Connection and Pre-loaded Films
SCOTTS VALLEY, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Designed to address the explosive worldwide demand for digital storage, Seagate (NASDAQ:STX) today launched the world’s first 1.5 terabyte (TB) 2.5-inch portable external drive. Available immediately, the new 1.5TB FreeAgent® GoFlex™ ultra-portable drive delivers an all-in-one, technically advanced solution to help store, share and enjoy libraries of digital content in one’s preferred medium—whether on a Mac or PC, or a television, at home or on the go. With 1.5TB of capacity people can now store and carry up to 60 HD movies, 750 video games, thousands of photos or countless hours of digital music.
   “Consumers continue to push the growth of digital music, photos, and video content, and increasingly want access to this content from a variety of CE devices, including a PCâ€
“Today’s announcement is a ‘triple-crown’ of consumer technology—packaging record breaking capacity, blazingly fast USB 3.0 connectivity and the bonus of movie entertainment—making the 1.5TB GoFlexâ„¢ ultra-portable drive an unprecedented and innovative solution,†said Darcy Clarkson, vice president of Global Retail Sales and Marketing for Seagate. “Bringing this solution to market on the heels of our 3TB GoFlexâ„¢ Desk drive and the Momentus® XT solid state hybrid drive is proof of Seagate’s continuing technology leadership and tradition of setting storage industry milestones.â€
Shipping now in the United States and rolling out globally later this year, all 1.5TB GoFlex ultra-portable drives1 will ship with a USB 3.0 interface cable, accelerating the transfer speed of a drive up to 10x when connected to a USB 3.0 port, when compared to a USB 2.0 port. For example, a drive using a USB 3.0 connection can transfer a 25GB file in under five minutes versus the 14 minutes it would take using a traditional USB 2.0 drive2. In addition, all GoFlex ultra portable drives will now also ship with the new Superspeed USB 3.0 cable, which will still continue to work with existing USB 2.0 ports.
“Consumers continue to push the growth of digital music, photos, and video content, and increasingly want access to this content from a variety of CE devices, including a PC,†says John Rydning, IDC's research director for hard disk drives. “Higher capacity disk drives in combination with higher bandwidth interfaces like USB 3.0 will help to make a greater number of large multimedia files more accessible from multiple devices in the home.â€
A key addition to the GoFlexâ„¢ family, the new 1.5TB GoFlex ultra-portable drive delivers ultimate flexibility in how people collect, protect, share and enjoy their digital libraries, all in a convenient compact package. In addition to coming bundled with USB 3.0 connectivity, the drive can be used with an array of add-on cables and accessories such as the GoFlexâ„¢ Net media sharing device and the GoFlexâ„¢ TV HD media player, that provide the flexibility to enjoy your content on a TV, a network, using a mobile device, or via the Internet.
All 1.5TB GoFlex ultra-portable drives are compatible with both the Windows® operating system and Mac® OS X computers. Each drive includes an NTFS driver for Mac, which allows the hard drive to store and access files from both Windows and Mac OS X computers without reformatting. The NTFS driver is simply installed once on the Mac® OS X computer, allowing it to read and write files on a Windows formatted3 drive.
The 1.5TB GoFlex ultra-portable drive with USB 3.0 adapter is available in black and can be purchased on Seagate.com and through select retailers for $249.99.Â
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