Saturday, October 10, 2009

IT News HeadLines (HotHardware) 10/10/2009


HotHardware
Kingston's MobileLiteG2 USB Card Reader Redefines Tiny
HDTVs just keep growing larger and larger. So do prices on data plan rates. But we can think of a few things that just keep shrinking: CPUs, GPUs and USB card readers. Frankly, it's amazing just how small some USB flash drives and card readers are these days. Some of 'em just seem too small for your own good, and some of 'em seem more likely to get lost than used. Enter Kingston's MobileLiteG2, a second generation card reader that fits pretty well into the latter category we described above. Measuring just 2.45"
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Microsoft Ditching Works for Ad-Supported Office Starter 2010
Microsoft Works, which is frequently offered as part of new PCs, is about the meet its end. Instead, in an interesting move, Microsoft announced it will allow OEMs to install the entire Office 2010 Suite on new PCs in a free, ad-supported form, but with much functionality disabled unless an activation key is purchased. The new version will be called Office Starter 2010. Office Starter 2010 will include Office Word Starter 2010 and Office Excel Starter 2010, with basic functionality for creating, viewing and
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Text Messages Could Help Smokers Kick The Habit
If you're looking for support while trying to stop smoking, an international study suggests text messaging could help. Four trials conducted in New Zealand, Britain, and Norway found that programs to help people stop smoking that included text messages with advice doubled the chances a person would be able to quit smoking for up to a year. The trials involved 2,600 smokers. During the trials, text messages were used as a way to give smokers advice, encouragement, and support. For example, if a user found himself
Read More ...

Samsung Announces Ultra-Slim LED Monitor
Samsung introduced a premium LED monitor, the SyncMaster XL2370 today. This monitor offers 1080 HD quality, a dynamic contrast ratio of 5,000,000:1, and a 2 millisecond response time. The XL2370 also has a thin profile, measuring 3/4 inch at the top and weighs less than eight pounds. The SyncMaster XL2370 is expected to cost just under $300 and will be available at Best Buy beginning October 12 and through other retailers in late November. Samsung’s Latest Ultra-Slim LED Monitor Offers HD Quality Picture
Read More ...

Case in Point: The Best CPU under $300
I’ve recently built up two midrange Core i7 based systems, which I discuss on my blog at Improbable Insights. One is based on Bloomfield, more specifically, the popular (among performance enthusiasts, anyway) Core i7 920. The other is the new Lynnfield-based Core i7 860. What’s interesting is the similarity in pricing between the two systems. I’ll talk about the individual system builds, but I also want to explore why you might build one type of system over the other. These systems are similar, but don’t have
Read More ...

Case in Point: The Best CPU Under $300
I’ve recently built up two midrange Core i7 based systems, which I discuss on my blog at Improbable Insights. One is based on Bloomfield, more specifically, the popular (among performance enthusiasts, anyway) Core i7 920. The other is the new Lynnfield-based Core i7 860. What’s interesting is the similarity in pricing between the two systems. I’ll talk about the individual system builds, but I also want to explore why you might build one type of system over the other.These systems are similar, but don’t have
Read More ...

Kingston's MobileLiteG2 USB Card Reader Redefines Tiny
HDTVs just keep growing larger and larger. So do prices on data planrates. But we can think of a few things that just keep shrinking: CPUs,GPUs and USB card readers. Frankly, it's amazing just how small someUSB flash drives and card readers are these days. Some of 'em just seemtoo small for your own good, and some of 'em seem more likely to getlost than used.

Enter Kingston's MobileLiteG2, a second generation card reader thatfits pretty well into the latter category we described above. Measuringjust 2.45" x 1.16" x 0.646" in size, this incredibly tinydevice is one of the smallest card readers we've seen--at least one ofthe smallest that accepts such a wide variety of card formats. Outsideof CompactFlash, most all of the big hitters are covered. SD, SDHC,microSD, microSDHC, Memory Stick PRO Duo, Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo andMemory Stick Micro (M2) are covered--just plug in your card of choice,plug the other end into a USB socket on your machine, and watch theconnection take place.



The unit has retractable covers on both sides to prevent damage, andit'll function find with practically any operating system. The driveitself sells for just $11, but there's a $28.50 bundle with a 4GB SDHCcard and a $46 package that includes an 8GB SDHC card.

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POTUS

Our President just won the Nobel Peace Prize.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/10/09/AR2009100900914.html

What do you think?


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Belkin's Easy Transfer Cable Makes WinXP/Vista-To-Windows 7 Upgrade Painless
You've heard horror stories from your pals who attempted to handle datamigration processes on their own, and you're scared to death to makethe leap to Windows 7. Thankfully, Belkin knows just what a tough spotyou're in, and it has devised a dedicated cable to solve the problemthat worries you most: upgrading. Of note, this cable won't do you anygood if you're planning to upgrade your existing machine from WindowsXP/Vista to Windows 7, but if you're putting together an all new rigand would like to migrate your data and settings over to the fresh rig,this should make your life a lot easier.

We'll confess--the Easy Transfer Cable for Windows 7 seems a bitunnecessary, but then again, we're PC enthusiasts. Something tells usthis is being marketed at those who don't know the different between anupload and a download, and if the cable does what it says it'll do,quite a few of those novices will be singing Belkin's praises shortlyafter October 22nd comes and goes. According to the company, the EasyTransfer Cable simplifies the transfer process with uninterruptedtransfer and a post-migration report that provides comprehensive detailof what was transferred. And yes, it works with both Windows XP andVista-based systems.

Of course, it'll cost you $39.99 for the time savings and promise of noheadaches, but you know, it could just be worth it if you're not usedto handling these things yourself. Or, you know, you could just pay your buddy to do it for $20...whatever!



AVAILABILITY
  • October 23, 2009, in North America
  • Q1 2010 in Europe and Asia
  • Pre-orders available on Amazon
  • Easy Transfer Cable for Windows 7 (F5U279) - $39.99
    • Migrates the following content easily and quickly, including*:
      • Music, photos, movies, documents, and other content
      • User accounts
      • Settings and customizations for Windows
      • Files and folders
      • Program settings and data files
      • Email messages and contacts
    • Quick setup in 3 easy steps: install software, connect the cable, and follow on-screen prompts
    • Transfers your information much faster than burning CDs, setting up a network, or other means of copy data
    • Sets up your new computer in minutes with your favorite settings from your existing computers and other devices
    • Post-migration report provides comprehensive view of what wastransferred, including lists of all programs and applications installedon old PC and links to download latest versions of programs
    • Improved custom selection: user interface allows you to specify which items you want to transfer
    • Officially designed for Microsoft Windows Easy Transfer utility
    • Moves files between two PCs at speeds of up to 480Mbps. Estimate transfer of up to 7,500 songs per hour to your new computer.
    • USB 2.0 Hi-Speed (480Mbps) and fully backward-compatible with USB 1.1 low-speed (12/1.5Mbps)
    • Windows 7 32- and 64-bit certified
    • 8-foot cable length

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    Iomega StorCenter ix2-200 NAS Puts Pro Tools Into Consumer Hands
    Iomega may not have the name recognition that Western Digital andSeagate share, but it's gaining serious ground in the storagemarketplace. Hot on the heels of its four-bay StorCenter Pro ix4-200r NAS introduction, the company is issuing a smaller, green version forhome users and small businesses. The compact StorCenter ix2-200 aims toput enterprise NAS features into the hands of consumers, all whileimproving the unit design.



    The drive is being made available in 1TB, 2TB and 4TB sizes, withprices starting at under $270. Iomega claims that its user interface isincredibly easy to grasp, and the remote access features should makesharing files over the web/network a peace of cake. Just in case yououtgrow the built-in storage, there's also three USB 2.0 sockets foradding extra space externally. You'll also notice a few more advancedfeatures like iSCSI support, device-to-device replication and videosurveillance, along with expected extras like a print server, GigabitEthernet and Time Machine support.

    Iomegaآ® Announces Next Generation "Green" Desktop Network Storage Appliance With Powerful Enterprise and Consumer Features
    آ آ آ
    Compact StorCenter ix2-200 Features:

    آ Easy Push Button Appliance-to-Appliance Copy and Backup

    آ Disk Spin Down for Energy Efficiency

    آ User Replaceable Disk Drives and More

    Media please contact: Chris Romoser, Iomega Corporation, (858) 314-7148 romoser@iomega.com

    San Diego, October 8, 2009 – Iomega StorCenter ix2 200Iomega, an EMC company (NYSE: EMC) and a global leader in data protection, today announced the next generation of its popular double-drive desktop NAS appliance with the worldwide launch of the new Iomegaآ® StorCenterâ„¢ ix2-200. Based on industry-leading enterprise-class EMCآ® storage technologies, the versatile yet affordable StorCenter ix2-200 wraps ease-of-use around big business data management functionality and advanced media serving and other consumer features that make it the ideal NAS appliance for small business users and home users.

    Available in 1TB*, 2TB and 4TB capacities, the new ix2-200 utilizes a very simple four-step setup to be operational in a matter of minutes - be it in a business setting or in the digital home. Starting at less than $270.00, the ix2-200 employs an easy-to-understand interface to provide robust data management and protection for the serious business user, as well as the latest in multimedia serving and remote access features that makes it a breeze to access your own data, whether in the office, the home, or anywhere else in the world.**

    Among the standout business features of the new StorCenter ix2-200:

    آ آ آ * Device-to-device replication for business continuity and file recovery
    آ آ آ * iSCSI block-level access for efficient storage utilization
    آ آ آ * RAID 1 configurations for optimized data protection
    آ آ آ * Windowsآ® Active Directory support
    آ آ آ * A new front panel QuikTransfer button for easy copying of selected files
    آ آ آ * User replaceable hard drives
    آ آ آ * Multiple IP security camera support
    آ آ آ * And for the forward-thinking small business, VMwareآ® certification for virtualization installations.

    The new StorCenter ix2-200 also has a treasure trove of features for the digital home, including:

    آ آ آ * A DLNAآ® certified UPnPآ® AV Media Server that makes the ix2-200 the central repository for serving up all your movies, pictures, music and other files to any compatible device on your network
    آ آ آ * Serves as a Time Machineآ® target for Appleآ® computer backups
    آ آ آ * Built-in torrent support for file-sharing without the need for a dedicated PC
    آ آ آ * Bluetoothآ® capability for uploading all kinds of digital content from a smart phone
    آ آ آ * Coolirisâ„¢ slide show plug-in allows for easy photo viewing
    آ آ آ * And remote access to the ix2-200 from anywhere in the world

    Iomega StorCenter ix2 200"The new StorCenter ix2-200 is definitely the easiest to use small office and consumer network storage appliance in the marketplace today," said Jonathan Huberman, president of Iomega and the Consumer and Small Business Products Division of EMC. "Combining EMC's world class enterprise storage and security technologies with advanced media serving features makes the ix2-200 a versatile and affordable NAS appliance that gives smaller organizations, work groups and home users not only cost-effective and robust network storage but some of the same sophisticated data management capabilities as a Fortune 100 corporation - but without any need for IT experience."

    The new Iomega StorCenter ix2-200 NAS appliance is now available in the Americas and Europe from retailers, VARs and IT resellers, including valued Iomega partner CDW.

    "When it comes to managing and protecting digital content, small businesses today face many of the same challenges as much larger organizations," said Matt Troka, vice president, Product & Partner Management, CDW Corporation. "Iomega's new StorCenter ix2-200 delivers cost-effective network storage with advanced enterprise features at extremely affordable prices. For the budget conscious small business with a need for dependable network storage that is easy to setup and maintain without any internal IT expertise, the compact StorCenter ix2-200 offers a great value proposition, which makes it a viable data storage and back-up solution for our customers."

    The Little Compact Desktop NAS Appliance with Lots of Capabilities
    The new StorCenter ix2-200 NAS desktop appliance utilizes the acclaimed EMC LifeLineâ„¢ software, a fully-developed Linux operating environment and suite of applications that is designed for cross-platform support with Windowsآ®, Macآ® and Linux computers. The LifeLine operating system presents a simple-to-use graphical interface that makes it easy to perform valuable business tasks while remaining confident that your data is securely stored, protected, and accessible whenever and wherever you need it.

    Small office users will enjoy the ix2-200's fast Gigabit Ethernet connectivity and high-performance embedded architecture, which boosts productivity by making data readily accessible and secure over a local network at the office or in the home. The ix2-200 also boasts the versatility of three USB 2.0 ports for adding printers or additional storage capacity with external USB drives.

    Key Features of the StorCenter ix2-200 NAS Appliance
    The new ix2-200 NAS appliance's many features make it one of the most advanced, innovative and easy-to-use double-drive network storage devices available today. Among the features:

    آ آ آ * Device-to-Device Replication (copy jobs): Copy or backup files to and from the ix2-200 to any other NAS or USB-attached storage device without the need for a client computer. Jobs can be set to run at pre-determined schedule or at the touch of the ix2-200's new QuikTransfer button. The ix2-200 uses either the rsync or Windows File Sharing protocol to transfer data between itself and another network storage device.
    آ آ آ * iSCSI Support: Provides block-level access for the most efficient storage utilization, especially for database, email and backup application performance. This feature also allows host-based operating systems and virtualization software to use the full capabilities of their native file systems, such as enabling VMFS for VMware utilization.
    آ آ آ * VMwareآ® Ready Certification: The ix2-200 is certified as both NAS (NFS) and iSCSI storage for VMware ESX Server 3.5 and 4.0 vSphere. The ix2-200 is listed on the VMware hardware compatibility list, enabling small offices and work groups to affordably take advantage of the benefits and advanced features offered by shared storage in a VMware environment. The ix2-200 is the ideal storage match for smaller virtualization deployments that use the new VMware vSphere Essentials and vSphere Essentials Plus software packages.
    آ آ آ * Remote Access: Set up remote access and remotely manage and access pictures, videos, work files and other digital data on the ix2-200 from anywhere in the world. Just enter a personalized web address into any browser for easy downloading and uploading of files securely.
    آ آ آ * RAID Support: RAID 1 with automatic RAID rebuild for data redundancy and protection. Single volume (JBOD) mode also available.
    آ آ آ * Multiple Network Protocols: Works in Windows, Linux and Mac environments with network protocol support including CIFS/SMB/Rally, NFS, and AFP/Bonjour. The ix2-200 also supports advanced protocols such as HTTP, FTP and SNMP.
    آ آ آ * Time Machineآ® Support: Lets Appleآ® users easily backup to the ix2-200 with Mac computers running OS X (10.5 or later) using Time Machine.
    آ آ آ * Windowsآ® Active Directory Support: Allows the ix2-200 to function as a client member in an Active Directory domain, giving users and groups access to the ix2-200.
    آ آ آ * Uninterruptible Power Supply Support: Enables unattended system shutdown without data loss in the case of power failure.
    آ آ آ * Gigabit Ethernet: high speed connectivity with jumbo frame support
    آ آ آ * Video Surveillance: Connect up to five Axisآ® Network video cameras for real-time monitoring and video capture, without the need of a dedicated computer (dependent upon system workload and network conditions). The ix2-200 can be used as a storage target for other network surveillance cameras as well.
    آ آ آ * Print Server: Supports intelligent print sharing capability for up to three USB printers directly connected to the ix2-200.
    آ آ آ * UPnP AV/DLNA Certified Media Server: Compatible with UPnP and DLNA certified media players, the ix2-200 streams photos, audio content and videos to not only laptops and computers but a variety of media devices, including game consoles (Xboxآ® 360, Sony PlayStationآ® 3), audio bridges, iTunesâ„¢ players, networked digital picture frames and other compatible devices.
    آ آ آ * Bluetooth capability: Allows users to upload contacts, photos and more from a cell phone, pocket PC or Blackberryآ® phone (Bluetooth USB adapter required, sold separately).
    آ آ آ * Photo Slideshow: Integrated utility based on Coolirisâ„¢ technology for quick browsing and sharing of pictures stored on the ix2-200 to both local and remote users.
    آ آ آ * Picture Transfer Protocol (PTP): Supports no touch, automatic transfer of photos from digital cameras via one of the three USB 2.0 ports on the ix2-200.
    آ آ آ * Versatility: Supports read and write on various formats, including Fat32, NTFS or ext2/ext3 formatted hard disks; also supports HFS+ (ready only).

    Backup and Security Software for a Complete Solution
    The StorCenter ix2-200 provides data backup and protection for any number of desktops and laptops with integrated EMC Retrospectآ® Express backup software. During the set-up process, users choose files and folders for scheduled automatic backups. After that, any changes or additions are updated and saved automatically.

    For data security, the ix2-200 also includes RSAآ® BSAFEآ® encryption security technology for protecting installs and upgrades from viruses or malware. RSA is the security division of EMC that protects digital data at many of the world's largest banks.

    A Power Saving "Green" NAS Appliance
    The StorCenter ix2-200 utilizes such power saving features as automatic hard drive spin down when the ix2-200 isn't copying or serving up data, power consumption "green" hard disk drives, and an Energy Starآ® certified power supply. All of these features ensure the most efficient or minimal power consumption.

    Compatibility
    The StorCenter ix2-200 is compatible with Windowsآ®, Mac OSآ®, and Linuxآ® PCs. The interface is localized in 11 supported languages (English, Spanish, Portuguese, French, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Traditional and Simplified Chinese, German, and Russian).

    Price, Availability and Warranty
    The new 1TB StorCenter ix2-200 NAS appliance is now available in the Americas and Europe for $269.99, the 2TB model is now available for $369.99, and the 4TB model, which will be available later this month, is $699.99. (All prices are U.S. suggested retail.) All three capacities of the new StorCenter ix2-200 will be available in Asia in November. The StorCenter ix2-200 is backed by a three-year warranty (with product registration).

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    My killer computer...

    Hello guys i want to show you my computer....well b4 i put the pictures i want to tell you that this is an dell dimension 2400 with 512mb memory and 40gb hdd and intel celeron 2.6ghz processor... ohhh and yea its bin tossed up by my dad couple of times so its in bad condition but it works perfectly fine.....

    Leave your comments and thoughts about this KILLER MACHINE....


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    Full Alienware Aurora Alx review please!

    Hey! I'd like to see the dull review on that alienware alx I've been checking the site everyday and nothing has been posted! :( When will it get posted?


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    Microsoft Ditching Works for Ad-Supported Office Starter 2010
    Microsoft Works, which is frequently offered as part of new PCs, is about the meet its end. Instead, in an interesting move, Microsoft announced it will allow OEMs to install the entire Office 2010 Suite on new PCs in a free, ad-supported form, but with much functionality disabled unless an activation key is purchased.

    The new version will be called Office Starter 2010. Office Starter 2010 will include Office Word Starter 2010 and Office Excel Starter 2010, with basic functionality for creating, viewing and editing documents. Microsoft indicated that the Starter version will have the same basic functionality that Microsoft Works does.

    You'll recall that Anytime Upgrade for Windows 7 works differently than for Windows Vista; the bits are already on your hard drive and simply need to be activated with a key. The same is true of Office Starter 2010; by purchasing an activation key that will be sold on Product Key Cards (shown above), consumers can upgrade to Office Home & Student 2010, Office Home & Business 2010, or Office Professional 2010 without installing extra software.

    This software, of course, will come pre-installed on new PCs. For those with older systems, Microsoft will sort of stream Office 2010 to their PCs when required using Click-To-Run, a new technology, which the company unveiled in the July invitation-only Technical Preview of Office 2010. It downloads the essential pieces you need for the task at hand, and does the rest in the background.

    Of course, Office 2010 hasn't even been released yet. Microsoft will offer a broader (and presumably, public) beta later in the year. At this point, Microsoft has much to be concerned with in terms of its Office offerings, as it will continue to have competition with Google Docs, OpenOffice, and eventually, its own Web Apps.

    And yes, Office 2010 will have the much-maligned "Ribbon."

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    Samsung Announces Ultra-Slim LED Monitor
    Samsungintroduced a premium LED monitor,the SyncMaster XL2370 today. This monitor offers 1080 HD quality, a dynamiccontrast ratio of 5,000,000:1, and a 2 millisecond response time. The XL2370also has a thin profile, measuring 3/4 inch at the top and weighs less than eightpounds. The SyncMaster XL2370 is expected to cost just under $300 and will beavailable at Best Buy beginning October 12 and through other retailers in lateNovember.آ


    Samsung’s Latest Ultra-Slim LED Monitor Offers HD Quality Picture

    Samsung’s SyncMaster XL2370 LED Monitor Offers Impressive Color and
    HD Capabilities Allowing Images to Jump Off the Screen

    RIDGEFIELD PARK, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Samsung ElectronicsAmerica Inc., a subsidiary of Samsung Electronics Corporation, the number oneworldwide brand of LCD display products, today announced the debut of itspremium LED monitor, the SyncMaster XL2370. At an estimated street price of$299, the XL2370 produces picture perfect, HD quality in a sleek, aerodynamicdesign. It will be available at Best Buy starting October 12 and throughdistribution and retailers in late November.

    “This monitor will definitely set a new standard for thiscategory. Samsung is taking its monitors to the next level by creating a highend monitor with a sharp design. It has an amazing picture quality that ourhigh-end users appreciate at a price that our cost conscious consumers alsolike,â€‌ said Doug Albregts, vice president, Information Technology Division,Samsung Electronics America Inc.



    EXCEPTIONALPERFORMANCE (MONITOR to MOVIE SCREEN)

    Whether you’re watching a Blu-Ray movie or video clipsonline, the XL2370’s LED edge-lit backlight performs at 1080 HD quality andyields a brighter range of colors than typical CCFL backlights. Colors,regardless of dark or light, are vivid and crisp with the XL2370’s dynamiccontrast ratio of 5,000,000:1 and the 2 millisecond response time ensures thatfast moving scenes are clear. Movies can be fully appreciated in 16:9widescreen formats without distortion or stretching.

    FUTURISTIC DESIGN(MONITOR to WORK OF ART)

    The XL2370’s sleek design features a Samsung Touch of Colormatte black finish, which appears liquid black in ambient light with a richcharcoal gray gradation in brighter light. A crystal-like acrylic neck andbezel trim give the impression that the monitor is floating and can also betilted up to 25 degrees. The XL2370’s ultra thin profile saves space, measuringjust 3/4" at the top and weighing under eight pounds. The On ScreenDisplay (OSD) lights up when used and disappears into the trim when dormant.



    ENVIRONMENTALLYFRIENDLY (MONITOR to MULCH)

    Being a true friend to the environment, the XL2370 isregistered EPEATآ® Gold, ENERGY STARآ® compliant, and partially constructed outof post consumer materials, complying with the EU directive on restricting theuse of hazardous substances (RoHS). The monitor lacks the hazardous componentsof CCFL backlights, such as halogen, mercury or lead. The Touch of Colorprocess eliminates the use of harmful paints and volatile organic compounds(VOCs), reducing CO2 emissions. Energy consumption is also improved, using upto 33% less power than CCFLs.

    “Consumers can generally buy a monitor for relatively cheap,but the XL2370 satisfies our customers’ appetite for an ultra slim LED HDquality monitor that is visually appealing,â€‌ said Young Bae, director,Information Technology Division, Samsung Electronics America Inc. “This monitoris a great addition for users that need enhanced video capabilities to watchmovies and play games in high definition.â€‌

    XL2370
    • 1920x1080 resolution
    • MEGA Dynamic contrast ratio of 5,000,000:1
    • 16:9 Aspect Ratio
    • 2ms response time
    • Low power consumption at 26 watts
    Monitors are available through Samsung resellers anddistribution channels, which can be located by calling 1-800-SAMSUNG or byvisiting www.samsung.com. Samsung PowerPartners receive special promotions, lead referrals, training and technicalsupport, as well as collateral and marketing materials. Samsung also recyclesall monitors through RECYCLING DIRECT Program.

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    Text Messages Could Help Smokers Kick The Habit
    If you're looking for support while trying to stop smoking,an international study suggests text messaging could help.Four trials conducted in New Zealand, Britain, and Norway found that programsto help people stop smoking that included text messages with advice doubled thechances a person would be able to quit smoking for up to a year.

    The trials involved 2,600 smokers. During the trials, textmessages were used as a way to give smokers advice, encouragement, and support.For example, if a user found himself craving nicotine, he could text"crave" to the program and receive advice on what to do.

    "We know that stopping smoking can be really difficultand most people take several attempts to quit successfully," researcherRobyn Whittaker from the University of Auckland in New Zealand told ReutersHealth. "It is important to be able to offer lots of different options forextra support."



    Two of the four studies considered programs that involvedonly text messages. These studies showed the text message programs doubled thechances smokers would quit over six weeks. The other two studies focused on a programin Norway that uses text messages, emails, and a dedicated Web site. Thesestudies found that smokers who used the program were twice as likely to besmoke-free for up to one year.

    According to Whittaker, only about 5% of smokers are able tokick the habit without any help. Txt2Quit, one of the programs in the study, isrunning in New Zealand with government funding. This program automaticallysends users two to three text messages per day shortly before a designated quitdate and for a month afterwards. Of the people who took part in the program'sfirst year, one-third did not smoke four weeks after their quit date. Thatfigure dropped to 16% after 22 weeks.

    Although the studies found the majority of smokers takingpart in the studies did not succeed in quitting, regardless of whether they hadtext messaging help, the studies do show that text messages could be anothertool in the smoking-cessation arsenal. They also show that text message supportprograms could be effective for some people because the programs providesupport when cravings strike. As Whittaker put it, "The frequent messagescan also act as a good reminder and motivation to keep going."

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    Case in Point: The Best CPU under $300

    Case in Pont: The Best CPU under $300I’ve recently built up two midrange Core i7 based systems, which I discuss on my blog at Improbable Insights. One is based on Bloomfield, more specifically, the popular (among performance enthusiasts, anyway) Core i7 920. The other is the new Lynnfield-based Core i7 860. What’s interesting is the similarity in pricing between the two systems. I’ll talk about the individual system builds, but I also want to explore why you might build one type of system over the other.

    These systems are similar, but don’t have identical components (motherboards obviously differ.) But they are good case studies into what to think about when building a system that has some legs.

    Both CPUs are priced identically on Intel’s price list -- $284 – but differ in other respects. Both have advantages and disadvantages. Let’s dig into the details of each system, then do a little postmortem analysis...

    Case in Point: The Best CPU under $300

    آ


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    i need a FREE .WAV to .MP3 encoder/converter
    basically i can get a trial which lets me have the first 30 seconds of the wave file as an mp3 ... what the f*** is the point in that?!! so i was wondering if any of you guys knew of a decent piece of shareware which would allow me to do this? i have got the need for speed most wanted soundtrack decrypted, but they are all in .WAV format, and i need them in high quality mp3, not 30 seconds at 56kps (which sounds shocking!)
    Read More ...

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