IT-Code-News: IT News Head Lines (TweakTown) 4/19/2012

RumorTT: Samsung stops production of GALAXY Tab 2 10.1, will upgrade it to a quad-core processor
According to NetbookNews' Korean Samsung insider, Samsung have stopped the production of the GALAXY Tab 2 10.1 so that they can upgrade it to a quad-core processor. Previous specs pointed toward the next-gen GALAXY tablet to sport a dual-core processor, but it seems Samsung have come to their senses.

Samsung's internal codename for the GALAXY Tab 2 10.1 is "Espresso", and this quad-core processor will sure give it the... shot.. it needs to compete with other tablets. No specifics were given on the new upgraded quad-core processor, but it will most likely be one of Samsung's Exynos chips.

Samsung are also updating the GALAXY Note 10.1 to a quad-core, and we should hopefully see more of this rolling through Samsung's smart devices. Remember, their "next GALAXY" is unveiled in just over a fortnights time, and I'm pegging my bets on that sporting a quad-core processor too.

In Arizona, you're pregnant two weeks before conception - this is now the law
Normally, one is considered pregnant after conception, but not so according to a new law in Arizona. The law now states, that women are now legally pregnant two weeks before conception. I've bolded before, as I really need to emphasize this.

The new law named "Women's Health and Safety Act", was signed by Republican Governer Jan Brewer. This new legislation is designed to reduce the amount of time a woman is allowed to have a legal abortion, and is one of the most absolutely insane bills to enter America. The bill was sponsored by Arizona State Rep. Kimberly Yee (pictured above), who last month penned an op-ed titled "No drug test, no welfare", where she wrote:

States have an obligation to hold those on public assistance accountable for their actions. Receiving a public benefit is a privilege, not a right. The debate on drug testing welfare recipients is simply about the responsible use of tax dollars.

Surely there's something in the water in Arizona? Another point, is its two women pushing this... they should really know better, especially on the going ons of a females reproductive system.

Alienware M18X R2 specs have been leaked
Dell's upcoming Alienware M18X R2 gaming notebook is nearly upon us, and what a beast it is. First up the Alienware M18X R2 is an 18.4-inch beast of a notebook, with a Full HD (1920x1080) resolution LCD White-LED Glossy screen.

Filling this out are three CPU options, all Intel Ivy Bridge-based Core i7 models, with the i7-3610QM, i7-3720QM and i7-3820QM at 2.3GHz, 2.6GHz and 2.7GHz, respectively. Storage-wise, we have normal HDD options and SSD options, the HDD options come in either 500 or 750GB, both at 7200RPM. SSD-wise, we have three options, 256/512GB Samsung PM830, 32/64GB Samsung PM830 or 512GB Micron C400. The SSDs are all SATA 6Gbps standard.

RAM options are not too bad either, with 1600MHz on offer in 2, 4 and 8GB as well as 1866MHz for 2GB options. Let's get onto the juicy stuff, shall we? GPU options are quite kick arse, with 3 different options. Radeon HD 7970M in CrossFire, GeForce GTX 675M in SLI, or a GeForce GTX 660M (it's unknown if this will be a single-GPU or SLI offering).

AC Adapter will be either 240W or 330W. All I can say, is I want one. This would make a pretty killer notebook. The one thing I'm disappointed in is that they're still only sporting 1920x1080 displays. We really should see these being bumped up to 2560x1xx0 displays (1440 or 1600).

Intel's Chief River Ivy Bridge-powered laptops arrive on June 5, thanks, Mr. Lenovo roadmap
Wanted to know when Intel's Chief River Ivy Bridge chipsets would be made available, well thanks to a product roadmap from Lenovo, we should expect them on June 5. Lenovo lists the date as the official on-sale date for its upcoming, yet unannounced slew of laptops sporting the new silicon.

Intel isn't offering anywhere near that level of information, but it would be nice of Intel to make this stuff official, instead of keeping their customers guessing. But, guessing customers, are customers who aren't fully aware of what's just around the corner, and you've got to move that inventory somehow, right?

The full document can be found here, but we're looking at June 5 as the day to keep our eyes peeled.

Halo 4 will launch on November 6
Halo 4 now has a release date, Microsoft have announced that Master Chief will return with a worldwide launch beginning on November 6. Halo 4 is set four years after the events in Halo 3, with Master Chief returning to confront his destiny and face an ancient evil that threatens the fate of the entire universe.

Halo 4 will be the first outing in the Halo universe to be developed by a company other than Bungie, with 343 Industries taking the wheel. Phil Spencer, corporate vice president of Microsoft Studios says:

We are beginning a new saga with 'Halo 4' and embarking on a journey that will encompass the next decade of 'Halo' games and experiences. Millions of fans worldwide have been eagerly awaiting the opportunity to step back into the boots of Master Chief, and, with 'Halo 4' leading the charge, we're confident 2012 will be the most successful year in Xbox history.

That's not all. Tonight, Conan O'Brien will help celebrate this fall's launch of Halo 4 with a special segment on CONAN on TBS at 11pm PDT/10pm CDT.

Palit JetStream GeForce GTX 680 4GB Video Cards in SLI

Introduction

The other day we got the chance to check out the brand new 4GB variant of the Palit Jetstream GTX 680 and found ourselves impressed with what was on offer. Today we're going to get the opportunity to look at the same card again, but in SLI, to see what performance is like with two of these 4GB bad boys.

Palit has been able to come out of the gate very aggression this time around offering not only a custom designed GTX 680 very fast, but weeks after launch they've managed to offer a 4GB variant of the video card on the same custom design.

Like when we looked at the 2GB version in SLI we won't be looking over the video card again and we already did that in the single standalone review. Because of that we'll just be getting straight into the testbed side of things while also just covering the video cards we'll be using in our graphs today along with a quick look at the GPU-Z screenshot.

Once we've done that we'll be getting straight into the benchmark side of things to see just how this 4GB SLI setup goes compared to a number of other setups before we finally wrap up everything in our final thoughts.

So, let's leave it at that and get into the test system side of things.
... Read the rest in your browser!

ADATA's XPG SX900 SSD is Now Available in the USA & Canada
ADATA Technology, a leading manufacturer of high-performance DRAM modules and NAND Flash storage application products, announces the availability of the XPG SX900 Solid State Drive for the USA & Canada. With up to 512GB of storage potential, the biggest model of this SSD line has a 7% capacity increase over common SSDs in the market that use a SandForce controller.

The XPG (Xtreme Performance Gear) family of products has been expanded to include solid state drives, and the SX900 is a perfect match for the performance requirements of this elite group. Built for enthusiasts, the SX900 utilizes a SATA III 6Gbps connection and SandForce 2281 controller. Its maximum sequential read and write speeds are 550/530 MB per second, with maximum random 4k write speeds as high as 85,000 IOPS.

The XPG SX900 SSD adopts specially selected flash chips and supports the Windows TRIM command for efficient allocation of unused space. This results in more accelerated transfer and write performance for the XPG SX900, and is also effective in slowing down efficiency decline and depletion chances, maintaining effective operation and extending the life of the disk.

In both desktop and notebook computers, users will enjoy an unprecedented high-speed experience when they edit videos, retouch pictures, and use computer drafting, reading and writing operations.

Other than the groundbreaking 512GB model, the XPG SX900 SSD is also available in 64, 128, and 256GB capacities.

The suggested retail prices for ADATA's XPG SX900 SSD are as below:

64GB: US$119.99
128GB: US$189.99
256GB: US$329.99
512GB: US$669.99

Availability
ADATA XPG SX900 SSD is now available in the USA through Amazon.com and Newegg.com, and Canada through Canada Computers and NCIX.

For further product information, please check:
http://www.adata.com.tw/index.php?action=product_feature&cid=3&piid=169

GIGABYTE "Real Graphics, True Gaming" Tech Tour 2012
GIGABYTE, a leading manufacturer of motherboards and graphics cards, is excited to kick off GIGABYTE "Real Graphics, True Gaming" Tech Tour 2012. GIGABYTE will start the Tech Tour from Taiwan on April 20th with an exciting announcement of several whole new products. As for last year, GIGABYTE presented a perfect gaming environment for hardcore gamers; this year, GIGABYTE is going to upgrade it even more!! With the latest 28nm fabrication process GeForce® GTX 680 GPU, GIGABYTE will unveil their own-designed GTX 680 Super Overclock Edition. Thanks for all the supports from gamers, GIGABYTE will also announce their new Aivia gaming keyboard and mouse, and wireless HD sync device during Tech Tour.

The tours are to promote the best products dedicated for serious gamers, especially new GIGABYTE's flagship GeForce GTX 680 Super Overclock SeriesTM, with innovative WINDFORCETM 5X cooling technology. To satisfy users who pursue higher performance with a larger screen when enjoying gaming and video entertainment, GIGABYTE will also introduce Aivia new gaming mouse "Krypton", the innovative new mechanical keyboard "Osmium" and the new product line of GIGABYTE peripherals - WHDI "SkyVision".
After successfully launching GIGABYTE Tech Tour from 2010, this year GIGABYTE still persists with the concept of "Real Graphics, True Gaming" to offer gamers a higher quality of gaming environment by GIGABYTE's best solutions. During Tech Tour 2012, GIGABYTE will communicate with worldwide manufactures, media, business partners, and users directly by traveling 11 major cities across 4 continents from April through May. The series events will start from Taiwan, and 10 more will be held in: Seoul (Korea), Moscow (Russia), Brno (CZ), Melbourne (Australia), Frankfurt (Germany), Tokyo (Japan), London (UK), Jakarta (Indonesia), Shanghai (China), and Bangkok (Thailand).

For more news about GIGABYTE Tech Tour 2012, please visit our website: http://www.gigabyte.com

AVADirect Now Authorized Phantom Lapboard Reseller
AVADirect is now an authorized reseller of Phantom Lapboard products! Phantom Entertainment, founded in 2002, set out to create a truly unique solution that could be utilized by a plethora of individuals. Since their company emerged on the market they have designed and released the Phantom Lapboard solution for those who plan to use an HTPC for Internet TV, HTPC Media usage, and Gaming. The one-touch, all-in-one wireless solution is perfect for those who want an easy to integrate solution with effective functionality. The Phantom Lapboard was designed to smoothly implement it's features within the comfort of a couch or suitable seating arrangement of your living room. Phantom Entertainment is a key integrator for AVADirect solutions and we look forward to working with them further in the future. Feel free to check out their product listing in our HTPC configurators to complete your in-home, HTPC setup!

To view more information click here
To view all Phantom Entertainment products we carry click Phantom Entertainment Lapboard at AVADirect.

Thecus® and McAfee Partner to Launch NAS Device with McAfee Technology
Thecus® and McAfee are teaming up to provide protection to NAS devices. Thecus® is the first to bundle McAfee anti-virus software within a NAS to provide customers a trouble-free NAS experience.

Ultimate User Experience

This partnership sets new standards within the NAS community by recognizing the request of many users seeking virus protection and prevention, Users can rest assured that they'll be piloting a powerful yet reliable NAS system. This effort also fosters a friendly user experience by offering antivirus protection right out of the box.

Main Features

Comprehensive detection so threats are isolated before they can spread

Removal of viruses, worms, and other malicious code

Reliable and accurate detection, without a costly false-alarm problem

Effective scanning of compressed, archived, and packed files

Support for a wide range of platforms

Scan engine SDK for easy integration into third-party applications

"Thecus®' approach is to facilitate the most advanced NAS available, while moving forward with the best antivirus software. Our alliance with McAfee enables us to close in and meet our goal, and ultimately deliver the most dependable NAS to the community," said Florence Shih, Thecus® General Manger.

"McAfee and Thecus® are leading the way in delivering a new secure NAS solution which offers customers the AV protection they need in a user friendly solution," said Tom Moore, Vice President of Worldwide OEM Sales at McAfee.

Crytek Takes Aim with Crysis 3 - The First Blockbuster Shooter of 2013
The hunted becomes the hunter! Electronic Arts Inc. and award-winning developer Crytek GmbH, today announced Crysis 3, the premier sandbox shooter experience of 2013. Powered by Crytek's proprietary CryENGINE, Crysis 3 advances the state of the art with unparalleled visuals and dynamic shooter gameplay. Players take on the role of 'Prophet' as he returns to New York, only to discover that the city has been encased in a Nanodome created by the corrupt Cell Corporation. The New York City Liberty Dome is a veritable urban rainforest teeming with overgrown trees, dense swamplands and raging rivers. Within the Liberty Dome, seven distinct and treacherous environments become known as the Seven Wonders. This dangerous new world demands advanced weapons and tactics. Prophet will utilize a lethal composite bow, an enhanced Nanosuit and devastating alien tech to become the deadliest hunter on the planet.

"Crysis 3 is a thrilling mix of sandbox gameplay, advanced combat and hi-tech human and alien weaponry that shooter fans will love," said Cevat Yerli, Chief Executive Officer of Crytek. "Leveraging the latest CryENGINE technology, we're able to deliver seven unique themes that offer stunning and visually loaded gameplay experiences. We cannot wait until people get their hands on the game."

Set in 2047, Prophet is on a revenge mission after uncovering the truth behind Cell Corporation's motives for building the quarantined Nanodomes. The citizens were told that the giant citywide structures were resurrected to protect the population and to cleanse these metropolises of the remnants of Ceph forces. In reality, the Nanodomes are CELL's covert attempt at a land and technology grab in their quest for global domination. With Alien Ceph lurking around every corner and human enemies on the attack, nobody is safe in the path of vengeance. Everyone is a target in Prophet's quest for retribution.

Crytek also announced that players who are ready to start the hunt can pre-order the Crysis 3 Hunter Edition today. The Crysis 3 Hunter Edition gives players the tools to become the ultimate hunter in multiplayer with early access to the new signature bow and its attachments, plus the Hunter Nanosuit module which adds additional power and functionality to the super-suit. Gamers who pre-order now will also have a head start when playing online with a bonus XP boost up to level 5, a unique bow skin and three exclusive dog tags to hunt in style. The Crysis 3 Hunter Edition is available on Origin.com and other participating retailers for $59.99.

In addition to receiving the Crysis 3 Hunter Edition, select retailers are offering gamers that pre-order Crysis 3 the following early multiplayer unlocks:

- Stalker Pack - Includes the base game, all Hunter Edition content and the following early multiplayer unlocks: for players who like to stalk their prey from the shadows the Stalker Pack provides early multiplayer access to the deadly semi-auto Jackal shotgun. This powerful, close-range shotgun comes with a unique silencer attachment, custom weapon skin and two exclusive themed in-game dog tags.

- Overkill Pack - Includes the base game, all Hunter Edition content and the following early multiplayer unlocks: the Overkill Pack features early multiplayer access to the Typhoon assault weapon and skin. Spewing 500 rounds a second, the Typhoon gives players the ability to go guns blazing to take back the Liberty Dome. Also included are two exclusive Overkill themed in-game dog tags.

- Predator Pack - Includes the base game, all the Hunter Edition content and the following early multiplayer unlocks: the Predator Pack delivers early multiplayer access to the Feline submachine gun and exclusive camo. With an extremely fast rate of fire and a 60 round magazine the Feline is highly effective and deadly, at short range.

Developed by Crytek and powered by the proprietary cutting edge CryENGINE technology, Crysis 3 will be available spring 2013 for the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system, PlayStation 3 computer entertainment system and PC.

Available Tags:Galaxy Tab , Samsung , GALAXY , Ivy Bridge , Lenovo , GeForce , GTX , SSD , GIGABYTE , McAfee , McAfee ,

Thursday, April 19, 2012

IT News Head Lines (TweakTown) 4/19/2012

Introduction

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