HotHardware Forums

19-MPH Skateboard Is An Electric Dream Come True

News — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 06:00:14 GMT

Hammacher Schlemmer has a wide, wide variety of wares. It carrieseverything from cups to 3D webcams, so it's no surprise to hear that italso carries electric skateboards that even Marty McFly would bejealous of. The newest gizmo to grace the company's electronicstorefront is the 19-MPH Skateboard, which is exactly what you'd think:a motorized skateboard that travels at up to 19 mph.

The board is powered by a 36-Volt battery and it hosts a 600-wattmotor; it's capable of hitting its top speed in just 4 seconds, and itcan supposedly head up hills and over terrain without issue. Bothacceleration and braking are handled via a remote wireless trigger, andthe battery provides a range of up to 10 miles from a four-hour charge.It weighs 40 pounds, and it has 4"-diameter solid urethane wheel; it's10.5" wide and is built from a maple veneer wood. It'll handle loads upto 225 lbs., and it's a surefire way to make any dream come true thisChristmas. It's available now for $599.95, and we hear insurance isexceptionally cheap.

Intel Partners with White House to Advance Math and Science Education

News — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 02:06:56 GMT

Intel Partners with White House to Advance Math and Science Education

November 23rd, 2009 - Today, we had the honor of joining President Obama as he announced a national science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education initiative, called the “Educate to Innovate” campaign. This is the first time a president has made this level of commitment to math and science education. At Intel, math and science education has been a focus of more than $1 billion of investment and the catalyst to train more than 6 million teachers.

We are very excited to be working with the Administration’s Office of Science and Technology on this effort and, in support of the President’s campaign, Intel has committed more than $200 million over the next 10 years for teacher training. Former Intel Chairman and CEO Craig Barrett will serve as a co-chair of the President’s new program.

The private and public leaders involved in “Educate to Innovate” have set a goal to find and replicate successful science, math and technology programs all across America. The President talked about training teachers and hosting winners of science competitions that are the result of hands-on learning, which he did earlier this year by inviting winners of Intel Science Talent Search to the White House. These are areas where Intel can make difference.

The president also said that winners in science competitions should be honored like winners of NCAA championships. It was only fitting that the students from Oakton High School in Vienna, VA demonstrated an impressive robot that they invented to shoot hoops.

Through years of experience and thousands of hours in classrooms world-wide, Intel has identified two concrete areas that fall in line with President’s goals:

Help prepare all students to take Algebra I by 8th grade. Intel will work with states, local education agencies and universities to train 100,000 American teachers in both Intel Math, a new, proven, results-driven math curriculum to increase knowledge and passion for the subject, as well as in Intel Teach, an ongoing program that trains teachers to use technology in the classroom, to help build the critical thinking and problem solving skills.
Allow every student an opportunity to learn science by doing science. Intel will develop new models for student research programs in rural, inner-city, low-income and high-minority classrooms across the U.S. that encourage hands-on science and math learning. Student achievements will be recognized in Intel’s science competitions – the Intel Science Talent Search and the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair, the most prestigious science competitions in the world.

The President said today that an announcement like this “doesn’t get a lot of focus.” He pointed out that “they’re not what’s debated on cable.” This is exceptionally unfortunate, as we wholeheartedly agree with his opinion that “this is probably going to make more of a difference in determining how well we do as a country than just about anything else that we do here.”

Intel believes that our young people are the key to solving our global challenges. Please share your thoughts with us and help us build a broad commitment to improve math and science education across the country.

ASUS Xtreme Design contest: stage 2 build-"KLsi"

klsi — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 04:19:59 GMT

I will be using the Antec 900 gaming computer case for this project. It allows high air flow while possibilities to improve acoustic properties. The front bezels and top fan will be painted blue to match the color theme of the Asus P7P55 motherboard. Also, a modified easy overclocking button will be extended and mounted on the front. While the highly efficient Antec Quattro 850 power supply has certifications from RoHs and plus bronze, keeping energy wasted minimum. Samsung SSD allows extremely high efficient drive performance while outputting 0dB of noise. Also, equipping G.Skill high performance memory and Intel Core i7, I could be rendering my architectural schoolwork (CPU) while participating at Folding@home(GPU) and help cure diseases. Both CPU and GPU would be installed with aftermarket cooler to achieve lower noise output and better cooling. Depending on the results, most of the 120mm case fans would also be exchanged for silent fans. In order to demonstrate the goals, this computer will be monitor with a power consumption meter at the power outlet to show how much power is used. Also, I will showing how other components allowing me to contribute to folding@home while keeping up with work.

11/21/2009 - Project Initiation.

WOOOHOOO. Thank you Asus and sponsers for choosing me. I'm very glad to share my experience with Asus. Today i took some change of my schematic design. Instead going for fan cool, i changed to watercool for more quiet and more efficient cooling system. Also, instead of using Antec 900 as my original case idea, i changed to Antec 1200 for a more grander scheme and space for my future system.

This blog will separate into different sections, in responds to my design.

Unboxing
Case construction process
test and power consumption test
reviews and thought
overclocking + benchmark
folding@home
final thought

I hope this blog will go smoothly as planned :D

Ok now I finish all these boring talk. NOW LET GET TO THE EXCITING STUFF .

Today, i went to performance-pcs and purchase a custom watercool kits online for this contest. It is kinda pricey for an university student, but since I will recieve all these sponser products, i think should give something back and make an exciting design. This is the list i bought.

Feel free to add comment and thought. If there any suggestion please post i will be happpy to reply. THANK YOU in advance

11 /12 / 2009 - GEAR RECIEVED.

OMG ! This is unbelievable. Thank you Asus and sponers once again for giving me this wonderful pre christmas gift I will try to up load all my unboxing video for tonight. Everything is awsome. This is the sneak preview of the xtreme family

ATI Radeon HD 5970 Dual-GPU Powerhouse Review

News — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 04:48:31 GMT

AMD's "Sweet Spot" GPU strategy over the last few years has been fairly predictable. Instead of producing the biggest, most powerful GPU possible--yields be damned--the company sets out to produce a relatively high-end GPU, using a cutting edge fabrication process, that hits a proverbial sweet spot between cost and performance. Then derivatives, and even multiples, of that GPU are used to flesh out a top-to-bottom line-up of graphics cards, that hit a broad range of price points.

It began with the RV670, which powered the single-GPU based Radeon HD 3870 and dual-GPU Radeon HD 3870 X2--hence the X2. Then came the RV770, which powered the Radeon HD 4870 and eventually the Radeon HD 4870 X2. The strategy has obviously paid off, as AMD is once again a price/performance leader in the GPU space, after some not-so-great performances like the R600, better known as the Radeon HD 2900 XT. Knowing their strategy, it should almost come as no surprise that the graphics card we'll be showing you today, the Radeon HD 5970, has come to fruition. Although it doesn't follow the same naming convention as AMD's previous dual-GPU powered cards, the Radeon HD 5970 is nonetheless powered by a pair of ATI "Cypress" Radeon HD 5800 series GPUs, linked together on a single PCB by a PCI Express bridge, very much like previous X2 iterations. Come on by and check it out...

ATI Radeon HD 5970 Dual-GPU Powerhouse Review

AMD Radeon HD 5970 Dual-GPU DirectX 11 Graphics Card

Verizon Wireless Announces The Samsung Omnia II

News — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 02:48:24 GMT

Verizon Wireless is adding to its wireless handset lineup with the new Samsung Omnia II, a touchscreen smartphone powered by Windows Mobile 6.5. The Omnia II has a more rounded and attractive body than the original Omnia. This new phone has a 3.7-inch, 480-by-800-pixel AMOLED touch screen along with an on-screen QWERTY keyboard that uses Swype technology and a 3D cube user interface.

The Omnia II offers full HTML Web browsing capabilities thanks to the Opera 9.5 browser. It also has support for Verizon V CAST music and video services, VZ Navigator, and Visual Voicemail. Just like the original Omnia, this new version has a 5 megapixel camera with a flash and auto-focus as well as DivX and Xvid movie file support.

The Samsung Omnia II will be available December 2 for $199.99 after a $100 mail-in rebate with a new two-year customer agreement.

Key features:

3.7-inch ultra-brilliant touch screen

Widescreen WVGA AMOLED (Wide Video Graphics Array Active-Matrix Organic Light-Emitting Diode) responsive touch screen results in one of the brightest and clearest displays on a mobile phone in the United States

Virtual QWERTY keyboard with Swype technology allows customers to input text faster and easier with one continuous finger or stylus motion across the screen keyboard
Features Windows Mobile 6.5, which keeps customers connected with corporate and personal e-mail and synchronization of schedules and contacts
Microsoft Office Mobile® enhances productivity with the ability to manage Word, Excel® and PowerPoint® documents
Enhanced 3D cube user interface
Full HTML Web browsing capabilities with Opera 9.5 enhanced browser
One-touch access to social networking sites via shortcut widgets
Supports Verizon Wireless services, including V CAST Music with Rhapsody, V CAST Video on Demand, V CAST Song ID, Visual Voice Mail, VZW Tones, VZ Navigator(SM), Mobile IM and Mobile Email

Additional specifications:

Full messaging suite, including SMS, MMS, Mobile IM, Mobile Email and Corporate Email
Access to social networking applications, including YouTube™, Facebook® and MySpace, with Samsung’s unique TouchWiz™ 2.0 user interface
5.0 megapixel camera with flash and auto-focus and camcorder and decoder with DNSe technology and on-device editing capabilities
Wi-Fi technology (802.11 b/g)
Support for Divx and Xvid movie files
8 GB internal memory and expandable memory of up to 16 GB with microSD™ memory card (card sold separately)
Bluetooth® profiles supported: headset (mono and stereo), hands-free (car kits), object push for vCard, basic imaging, phonebook access profiles. Also supports serial port, dial-up networking, object push for vCalendar, file transfer, basic printing and human interface device profiles

Atlona's Wireless USB To HDMI/VGA Adapter Cuts The Cord On Video Transmissions

News — Sun, 22 Nov 2009 22:38:19 GMT

Atlona has been making accessories and adapters for years, but by andlarge it has remained a pretty low-key name. The new wireless USB toHDMI or VGA adapter, however, looks to really put the company on themap. It's easily one of the most useful adapters we've seen in quitesome time, enabling users to send both video and audio signals from aUSB-enabled computer to an HDMI/VGA-equipped display without any wires.Just think--you can send the movie on your laptop to your wall-mountedHDTV without any wires in-between. Not a bad setup, huh?

Earlier in the year, Atlona unveiled an adapter by the same name, butone major problem was called out almost immediately: it didn't supportaudio. Basically, that adapter was great for audio-free presentationsalone, but users looking to use this in an entertainment system neededsound. Atlona's latest does indeed include support for audio.Basically, users simply plug one dongle into the USB port, and one intothe VGA/HDMI port on the HDTV. Install the drivers on Windows XP,Windows Vista or Windows 7, fire up the video and let things rollover-the-air.

The device sends signals via the UWB protocol, and it's capable ofextending any computer wirelessly from the display at lengths up to30ft with HDTV resolutions up to 720p or PC and VESA resolutions at1440x1050. Both HDMI and VGA output connections are active at the sametime, therefore HDAiR receiver could be used to power up 2 displays atthe same time with identical content. It's available today for $219.

Atlona Technologies officially releases the new wireless USB to HDMI or VGA adapter, now with Audio.

Atlona Technologies officially releases the new wireless USB to HDMI or VGA adapter, the AT-HDAIR, now with Audio.

Atlona Technologies has been known for their innovative product linesas well as constantly paving the way for new and updated technology inthe AV world. With the introduction of the HDAiR, a wireless USB toHDMI or VGA converter, earlier this year, Atlona has caused quite astir among computer users looking to integrate their computers intotheir HD audio video systems. After its release, users from around theworld responded to Atlona's customer survey asking what additionalfeatures could make the HDAiR even better. The overall consensus was toadd audio support. Atlona has responded by releasing the all new HDAiRwith the ability to output audio in both 3.5mm analog, as well asembedded on the HDMI output.

Compatible with both XP, Vista, and Windows 7, this one of a kinddevice will allow users to connect any USB enabled computer or laptopwirelessly, to any HDTV or projector via VGA or HDMI. This unitwirelessly transmits high resolution signal from a small USB adaptorconnected to a computer, to a receiver unit placed next to the display,making it perfect for taking the traditionally personal computingexperience and making it a communal experience.
Like the older model AT-HDAiR, this newer model with audio still useschipsets developed by Wisair to transmit USB protocol over Ultra wideband (UWB) frequencies.

The new AT-HDAiR, is capable of extending any computer wirelessly fromthe display at lengths up to 30ft with HDTV resolutions up to 720p orPC and VESA resolutions at 1440x1050. Both HDMI and VGA outputconnections are active at the same time, therefore HDAiR receiver couldbe used to power up 2 displays at the same time with identical content.The latest addition to this wireless adapter is that is now able tooutput digital audio through the HDMI as well as a 3.5mm stereo jack.With the addition of audio to this new version, the HDAiR is perfectfor viewing continuously popular streaming media from HULU or Youtube,as well as computer based leaning programs such as Rosetta Stone orLynda online training.

With quick and easy installation, the all new HDAiR with Audio opens upa word of possibilities. For home, business, and educational usersproviding a cost effective and convenient solution to integrate PC'sand laptops into HD audio video systems.

Atlona's all new AT-HDAiR with audio is officially available just in time for the holidays with an MSRP of $219.00.

Sprint Adds Sanyo Incognito QWERTY Clamshell

News — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 02:34:23 GMT

Starting Cyber Monday (Nov. 30), Sprint will be offering the SANYO Incognito SCP-6760. This basic feature phone offers a full QWERTY keyboard and a 2 megapixel camera. One of the cool things about this phone is its Titanium Black mirrored surface with an OLED external display and glow-through keypad buttons that provide haptic feedback when touched.

To satisfy mega-messengers and social networkers, the Incognito also features a flip-open full QWERTY keyboard and a 2.6-inch QVGA internal display. Incognito includes popular media and messaging applications such as Facebook, MySpace, and Twitter from the Sprint One Click carousel. Sprint Navigation, Sprint NFL Mobile Live, NASCAR Sprint Cup Mobile, and Sprint Mobile Email are also available.

Incognito will be available at www.sprint.com starting November 30 and in all Sprint retail channels beginning December 6. The phone will cost $49.99 after a $50 mail-in rebate with a new two-year Service Agreement.

ASUS Xtreme Design contest: stage 2 build nelsoncp21

nelsoncp21 — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 01:16:15 GMT

Well I hae been officially told we can start stage 2. My hardware is suppose to arrive tomorrow and I got my case in over the weekend. I haven't started any cutting yet because I want to double check my clearances first. I did however put the case together. Stay tuned I should have some pics up tomorrow unboxing and possibly some premodding assembly. kinda bummed though as I get the stuff tomorrow and then have to head out of town wed for turkey day. I will try to get a good deal accomplished tomorrow evening and post so you guys can comment over the weekend.

Lexar Media Intros Memory Cards For Gullible Gamers

News — Sun, 22 Nov 2009 19:40:23 GMT

Ah, memory cards. Can't live with 'em, can't live without 'em. Actually, it's pretty easy to live with them, but going about one's life without losing any is the tough part. In order to provide a few options for those in need of more on-hand storage, Lexar Media is expanding its gaming line with Memory Stick Micro (M2) and Secure Digital High Capacity (SDHC) cards.

The company is pushing these as cards tailor made for gamers, but in reality, they're just memory cards with fancy labels. They're available in 4GB and 8GB sizes, and while MSRPs aren't readily available, we suspect these will be in stores before the holidays.

Lexar Gaming Line Key Messages:
Provides users with high-capacity storage for gaming-related content on Sony® and Nintendo® gaming consoles
Gives gamers a reliable way to store music, movies, photos, videos, and Internet favorites on their video game platforms
Delivers reliable performance to ensure valuable gaming data is safely downloaded and saved on popular memory card formats
Offered in a wide range of form factors for multiple gaming consoles
The new Lexar Gaming M2 card is compatible with Sony PSP®go and other Sony M2 devices. Lexar also offers the Lexar Gaming Memory Stick PRO Duo™ card for Sony PlayStation® Portable (PSP®) and PlayStation 3. The new Lexar Gaming SDHC card is designed for use with Nintendo® Wii™ and Nintendo DSi™, and also gives Nintendo DSi users the ability to snap and store photos with the device’s two built-in cameras, play back songs and music on their gaming device, and store games downloaded from the Nintendo DSi Shop.* Capacities of the Lexar gaming solutions include:
Lexar Gaming Memory Stick Micro (M2) card: 4GB and 8GB
Lexar Gaming Memory Stick PRO Duo card: 2GB, 4GB, and 8GB
Lexar Gaming SDHC card: 4GB and 8GB
Lexar Gaming SD™ card: 2GB

New York's Deputy CIO Looks To Consoles For New Emergency Alert System

News — Sun, 22 Nov 2009 05:38:01 GMT

If there was a city in the US that you would look to as front-runner in pioneering new emergency alert, warning and information systems, most likely one of the first to come to mind would be the great Big Apple. New York's rebuiling process since the 911 attacks is taking shape in a number of forms but perhaps none more so than the extent of preventative measures the city's local government is taking to keep its citizens safe and hold firm to their mantra of "never again and never forget". In addition, getting the word out quickly, in the event of an emergency, is obviously a critical component of protecting people from any threat of the natural kind or otherwise. In that regard, the city's Chief Information Officer is looking at new, innovative ways of reaching the widest swath of New York's huge population as quickly as possible. In fact, he's looking to tap into pre-existing communication networks beyond the city's traditional TV and radio audience, in an effort to expand that reach.

Singleton, sporting a Macbook

Under New York's new "Empire 2.0" initiative, Deputy CIO, Rico Singleton is targeting developement of an alert system that will connect to various game console networks like Xbox Live, PlayStation Network and Wii Connect. "The goal, said New York State Deputy CIO Rico Singleton, is to reach younger residents who spend more time on the Xbox, PlayStation, or Wii than with television or radio. "

With the state's new plan, local authorities could broadcast warning messages to connected gamers in the event of an emergency. This approach seems like a logical and natural strategy since quite frankly many TV sets these days are occupied by game console content for hours on end and gamers could be completely oblivious to a situation if not made aware by some other means. The bottom line is, though obviously no system would provide complete coverage, the idea is that, like those annoying TV alert tests we've grown accustomed to over the years, the same sort of broadcast could be made over consoles. Thus, one way or the other, if a TV is on those citizens would be made aware of an emergency situation.

This is a test of the Xbox Live Emergency Alert System. This is only a test...

Also, apparently New York is keen on taking advantage of social networks to protect its citizens with New York's Department of Health monitoring Facebook posts to help identify suicidal behavior, along with the CIO's office providing tweets on new technology efforts in the state. Singleton is quoted as saying "Web 2.0 "is the world we're beginning to live in... we should be part of the movement."

We'd have to agree Rico, but "Web 2.0" is so two-thousand and late. We're moving on to the next revision but applaud New York's efforts in homeland security with a keen eye on technology and trends. And what about tapping on the shoulders of all those Left 4 Dead zombies on Steam? Let's not forget those PC gamers out there too.

Samsung Intros 2TB STORY Station Plus External Hard Drive

News — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 18:50:18 GMT

Samsung introduced a 1.5TB STORY External HDD back in May, but with theproliferation of 2TB drives available now, the company is today issuinga roomier edition. The STORY Station Plus isn't just larger, though; italso adds an eSATA interface for faster transfers. In case you don'thave an eSATA port, it also comes with a USB 2.0 port. Moreover, it'smore power efficient than the prior models, and in case the 2TB editionis too pricey, there's also a 1TB model with the same features. Itshould be available by the end of the month worldwide, with the 2TBversion priced at $299.

Samsung Reveals 2-Terabyte ExternalHard Drive
with eSATA Interface for Faster Data Transfer

SEOUL, Korea, November 23, 2009 -- Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., aworld leader in digital consumer electronics and information technology, todayannounced the STORY Station Plus, its new line-up of 3.5-inch external harddrives featuring an external serial ATA (eSATA) interface to allow lightningfast data transfer. The 3.0-gigabit per second (Gbps), high-performance drivesare available in up to 2-terabyte (TB) densities, providing consumers with ahigh-performance external storage solution.

"Samsung new line of high-density solutions withthe eSATA interface give users the speed they need for demanding tasks likephoto and video editing, plus safely storing multimedia contentlibraries," said H.S. Lee, vice president, storage marketing, Samsung Electronics."The 2TB density STORY Station Plus drive can store the data equivalent of500,000 MP3 music files, 560,000 digital photo images, or 880 hours of highresolution video."

The addition of the eSATA interface raises the datatransfer speed of the STORY Station Plus series by more than six-fold whencompared with models using a USB 2.0 interface, the standard connector for mostexternal hard drives. Offering greater flexibility, STORY Station Plus userscan utilize either the 480 megabit per second (Mbps) USB 2.0 or the 3.0 GbpseSATA interface, satisfying consumers' needs for higher performance from theirexternal storage devices.

The STORY Station Plus line-up will also featureSamsung's low standby power design that reduces the standby power by 96 percentto 0.1 watts (W) from the conventional 2.5W. The reduced standby power levelmeets requirements for the forthcoming European Union EuP (Energy UsingProducts) Directive for Standby Regulation, effective January 2010.

Samsung's 3.5-inch STORY Station Plus external harddrive is available in densities ranging from 1TB to 2TB. The aluminum outercasing not only provides a chic design but contributes to effective heatdispersion. Key features include Samsung Auto Backup for ongoing datapreservation, SecretZone^TM software for personal data encryption andSafetyKey^TMfor password protection.

The STORY Station Plus drives will be availableglobally by the end of November 2009. The STORY Station Plus features athree-year limited warranty and the 2TB version has a $299 MSRP.

About Samsung Electronics
SamsungElectronics Co., Ltd. is a global leader in semiconductor, telecommunication,digital media and digital convergence technologies with 2008 consolidated salesof US$96 billion. Employing approximately 164,600 people in 179 offices in 61countries, the company consists of two business units: Digital Media&Communications and Device Solutions. Recognized as one of the fastestgrowing global brands, Samsung Electronics is a leading producer of digital TVs,memory chips, mobile phones and TFT-LCDs. For more information, please visit www.samsung.com.
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HotHardware and TechVi Video Podcast No. 4

News — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 01:18:30 GMT

We sit down with our buddies from TechVi, to talk graphic cards and Nettops this time around. First on the list? ATI's gigantic Radeon 5970, which other than topping performance charts, also tips the price scales more than most cards. On the lower end of the spectrum, we break down a new card from Zotac which is a low-power unit capable of fitting in well to a home theater setup without breaking the bank or a sweat. Also, Adobe has added hardware acceleration support in its latest build of Flash, which is perfect for lower-end computers to play back hi-def Flash content. Finally, MSI has come out with a desktop that fits that mold really well, with a touchscreen, Nvidia ION chipset, and weighs in at about $750. Check the show for the full details.

Show Notes:
0:33 — ATI Radeon HD 5790
2:20 — Zotac GeForce GT 240
4:20 — Adobe Flash Beta
5:50 — MSI Wind Top

Article Reference List:

Motorola's DROID, Tested and Burned In

News — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 06:34:39 GMT

Verizon's DROID from Motorola finally goes on sale today & offers many things the iPhone just can't, like taking pictures in low light settings, a hardware keyboard, running simultaneous applications, a 5-megapixel camera, interchangeable batteries, and open development for the platform. The features are there but are they enough to convince users to switch?

We take a deep-dive look at Motorola's HOT new DROID smartphone:
http://hothardware.com/Articles/Motorola-DROID-Review/

The Nokia N900 'Computer in Your Pocket' Arrives

News — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 18:10:14 GMT

Nokia's highly anticipated N900 is now available in the U.S.; it's also shipping to customers who preordered the Maemo-powered mobile computer. The N900 has a 3.5-inch touchscreen, full QWERTY keyboard, and four customizable home screens. This handheld also offers a 5 megapixel camera with Carl Zeiss optics and a dual LED flash.

Operating on the Linux-based Maemo platform with 32GB of storage and multiple connectivity options, the N900 gives users multiple ways to connect to the Internet, access their email, files, and much more. The N900 is also capable of multitasking.

"Consumers from every segment of the population are looking for more out of their mobile device - more power, more ability, more connectivity. The Nokia N900 ushers in a new era with a very powerful mobile computer," said Alessandro Lamanna, Vice President, Retail Sales, Nokia. "With an open source operating system, incorporated technology like an OMAP processor, and real time web widgets, the Nokia N900 delivers the experience of a pocketable computer that has the information you're looking for right there waiting for you thanks to the ability to be connected just about anywhere."

As you may recall, Maemo software is based on an open source platform. The N900's web browser is based on Mozilla technology, providing a computer-like browsing experience with support for Adobe Flash 9.4 and gestures.

The Nokia N900 is available with a black finish for $649 through Nokia Flagship stores in New York and Chicago, nokiausa.com and various retailers.

Google Dishes More Details On Chrome OS: Web-Connected, Out Next Year

News — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 21:54:56 GMT

For awhile, Google's Chrome OS has been somewhat of a mystery to end-users. It was introduced this summer, but all that we were ever provided was a cute logo and a few vague promises. Since that time, Microsoft has launched Windows 7 and Apple has introduced Snow Leopard, so it's about time for Google to step up to the plate and give everyone an update on its first non-mobile operating system.

Today, the search giant held a press conference in order to clarify more on Chrome OS, but unfortunately, there's not much here to please those demand instant gratification. Google itself admits that Chrome OS won't be ready for end users until next year, but it's taking a step in the direction of production by open-sourcing the project as Chromium OS. This means the code is free, accessible to anyone and open for contributions.

One thing that was made very clear today was that Chrome OS is, and will always be, about the web. Every application that you'll load into Chrome OS will be connected in some way to the Internet, which is sure to enrage some of you and delight others. According to Google, the "entire experience takes place within the browser and there are no conventional desktop applications; this means users do not have to deal with installing, managing and updating programs." We understand that the cloud may be the future, but we're not quite sure our lifestyles and our existing Internet infrastructure is ready to handle that.

Google claims that since all of Chrome OS' applications live within the browser, security is heightened. To quote: "Unlike traditional operating systems, Chrome OS doesn't trust the applications you run. Each app is contained within a security sandbox making it harder for malware and viruses to infect your computer. Furthermore, Chrome OS barely trusts itself. Every time you restart your computer the operating system verifies the integrity of its code. If your system has been compromised, it is designed to fix itself with a reboot. While no computer can be made completely secure, we're going to make life much harder (and less profitable) for the bad guys." Sounds good in theory, but who knows how much hassle that'll be in practice.

What do appreciate that Google is striving to make things are snappy as possible. Chrome OS will be stripped of unnecessary process, and in many ways that's possible due to the stripped-down nature of the OS. Without a doubt, this isn't going to replace Win7 or OS X. It can't handle apps like Final Cut Pro or Adobe Photoshop, but it should handle most things that basic users use on a day-to-day basis.

We're also hearing that Chrome OS won't just run on any old machine, which is probably the biggest announcement today. It'll only be able to run on specific hardware, which should optimize it greatly but alienate quite a few existing PC users who were hoping to try it out. Still, Chrome OS should be great for next year's netbooks, and possibly even a few UMPCs and MIDs. Unfortunately, that means we'll have to wait until next year to see how things pan out, but for now, the video below will get you thirsting for more.

New gaming rig

Mouse1989 — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 11:49:32 GMT

Hey guys,

Been looking into a new gaming PC to support 4 monitors (for photoshop and website layouts). I've cobbled together some parts to build it myself but as I work full time I don't have that much time to look at reviews/prices and other options.

If you could review and/or upgrade and swap bits in and out of my current configuration, it would be much appretiated. My current budget is about £1600 and this is what I have so far.

- Intel Core i7-975 EX 3.33GHz LGA1366

- Asus S1366 Intel X58 ATX A L

- Corsair Memory Corsair 3GB 1600MHz DDR3 CL8

- XFX GeForce GTX 260 680Mhz 896MB PCI-Express DVI Black Edition (x2)

- XFX 850W Black Edition Single Rail Modular Power Supply

- Antec Black Twelve Hundred Tower Case ATX no PSU

- Zalman Heatpipe CPU cooler with quiet 110mm blue LED fan

- Samsung Spinpoint F3 1TB 7200rpm SATA 3Gb/s 32MB

Which took me to £1606.80, will be taking other bits from old system such as network card, and another hard drvie etc. Just using this as a base.

EDIT: Forgot to mention, this is just the base and the budget for it, I have all 4 monitors already.

Thanks

Ben

Pantech Impact Caters To Texting Lovers On AT&T

News — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 05:36:35 GMT

It's no iPhone, but it should make those texting tweens of yours mightyhappy. Pantech has a knack for creating text-friendly feature phones,and the new Impact looks to be yet another winner. Set to launch onAT&T, the phone will be available in both bright blue and softpink, and it features a high-gloss faceplate with a haptic responsetouchpad, two screens and a full hidden keyboard, along with a host ofthe latest social and multimedia options.

The phone flips open to reveal a full QWERTY keyboard, and aside frommaking calls, sending texts and generally consuming your attentionthroughout the day, this one can also play back music. The second colorscreen is also useful for watching videos, and given the internal GPSchip, you'll also be listening to the built-in speaker as it belts outdirections. Naturally, this one can also browse the Web and interactwith social networks, but that means you'll be asked to pay $30/monthfor an unlimited data plan.

The Impact will be available for $99.99 after a mail-in rebate and a 2-year agreement.

Impact brings new energy to your mobile life with the following features:
Responsive Touchpad – Each time Impact’s slick touchpad exterior is pressed, the phone responds with a gentle buzz.
Options on the Outside – Play and control music, send texts, and make calls from Impact’s touchpad without ever having to open the phone.
The World Inside – Flip Impact open to find a full QWERTY keypad, a large color screen and speakers, and also shortcut keys to IM, text, email and multitasking features.
3G Speeds – The nation’s fastest 3G network makes surfing the Web, checking your newsfeeds, and streaming music and video fast and easy.
AGPS – AT&T Navigator provides voice-guided, turn-by-turn directions in real time.
Video Recording and Picture Taking – Take and share pics and video clips using multimedia messaging and AT&T Mobile Email.

American Airlines Launches Wi-Fi Widget To Give Travelers A Heads-Up

News — Sun, 22 Nov 2009 19:56:34 GMT

There's little doubt that having Wi-Fi on planes is one of the greatest inventions of all time (or at least this decade), but actually finding a flight that's Wi-Fi enabled can be tough. Darn near impossible, even. American Airlines is looking to make the process or making your day or breaking your heart just a bit simpler with its new Wi-Fi Widget, which enables passengers to check to see if their flight will be Internet-ready 24 hours before takeoff.

It's the first US legacy airline to launch such an application, and given that it's Web-based, it can be loaded on any PC, notebook, smartphone, etc. We were half expecting AA to just release an iPhone app, but in a way this is far better; it allows just about everyone to use it, not just iPhone owners. We certainly wish we could learn about Wi-Fi enabled flights at the time of booking, but until every single airplane has Gogo onbard, we understand that changes in flight plans will prevent that from happening.

As of now, American has Wi-Fi on 150 of its MD-80 planes, while 15 of its Boeing 767-200 aircraft are equipped. In the near future, customers will also be able to determine if their flight has Wi-Fi by looking for the Wi-Fi symbol on the AA electronic gate information display screens at the airport.

Customers can visit aa.com/wifiwidgetto find and use the Wi-Fi Widget. The tool allows travelers todetermine if their American Airlines flight will be scheduled withWi-Fi enabled aircraft. Customers can also embed the Wi-Fi Widget intheir own blogs, Web sites, and social network sites, which makesfinding Wi-Fi on American Airlines flights even easier.
Gogo service turns an American Airlines flight into a Wi-Fi hotspot.Once the aircraft has reached 10,000 feet, users can simply turn ontheir Wi-Fi enabled devices - such as laptops, smartphones and handheldPDAs - then open their browsers and be directed to the Gogo portal pagewhere they sign up and begin surfing. Gogo also provides complimentaryaccess to all that AA.com has to offer, including booking flights,hotel stays and rentals, checking AAdvantage accounts, and more.
Onceconnected, passengers can surf the Web, check e-mail, send instantmessages, access a corporate VPN, and even start holiday shopping withSkyMall. By placing an online SkyMall order onboard, customers willreceive a $12.95 discount on orders totaling more than $100 - coveringthe price of the Gogo session.
Eachpaid Gogo session includes full Internet, e-mail and VPN access. Cellphone and Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) service use areprohibited.

Happy Thanksgiving: At discount from 30% to 60%

DanielM — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 02:51:02 GMT

To celebrate Thanksgiving and express our gratitude to all those who support Aidownloading all the way! We dedicate to providing you the best tools and offering a huge discount. All of them will enjoy a 30%-60% off from November 1, 2009 to December 31, 2009.

Learn More: http://www.aidownloading.com/thanksgiving.html

Buy the following products with 30%-60% off:

All-in-one Packs:
Windows:
DVD Software Toolkit $138.95 58%off $59.00 Free Trial
DVD Video Converter Suite $91.90 35% off $59.95 Free Trial
DVD Studio Pack $163.75 50% off $79.95 Free Trial
Mac:
DVD Studio Pack for Mac $103.00 40% off $59.00 Free Trial Intel Version
Free Trial Power PC Version
DVD Converter Suite for Mac $152.00 50% off $75.00 Free Trial Intel Version
iMedia Converter for Mac $74.00 30% off $49.00 Free Trial Intel Version
Free Trial Power PC Version

iPod and iPhone Packs:
iPod Mate $77.00　55%off　$35.00 Free Trial
iPhone Mate $77.00　55%off　$35.00 Free Trial
DVD to iPod Suite $59.90 35% off $39.95 Free Trial
DVD to iPhone Suite $59.90 35% off $39.95 Free Trial
iPhone Ringtone Suite $44.90 22% off $34.95 Free Trial

Other Packs:
DVD to PSP Suite $59.90 35% off $39.95 Free Trial
DVD to Zune Suite $59.90 35% off $39.95 Free Trial
DVD to Archos Suite $43.90 30% off $29.95 Free Trial
DVD to Walkman Suite $49.90 56% off $31.95 Free Trial
DVD to Sansa Suite $43.90 30% off $29.95 Free Trial
DVD to Creative Zen Suite $49.90 56% off $31.95 Free Trial
DVD to 3GP Suite $59.90 30% off $39.95 Free Trial

AT&T Adds Windows 7-Equipped Mini 110 To Netbook Lineup

News — Sun, 22 Nov 2009 23:19:45 GMT

AT&T is on a serious netbook roll. When it's not bashing VerizonWireless in some futile attempt to prove that it's US network issuperior to VZW's network, it's securing netbook after netbook to sellto those who are willing to bite on a low up-front cost. Of course,we've never been big fans of spending less on a netbook up front onlyto have to pay a hefty monthly fee for 2 full years in order to keep itconnected to AT&T's network, but to each their own.

Starting this week, interesting consumers will find another option inAT&T stores (and online) in the HP Mini 110. The newest version ofthis netbook includes a built-in AT&T WWAN module, Windows 7, a10.1" LCD screen, 1GB of RAM, 160GB hard drive and an Atom CPU. It'llrun users $199 with a 2-year contract. To clarify, the $199 netbookpricing requires the purchase of a new two-yearAT&T DataConnect plan - including a 200MB plan option for a newlyreduced price of $35 per month or a 5GB plan for $60 per month.

The HP Mini features built-in access to the nation's fastest 3Gnetwork and the largest Wi-Fi network in the U.S., and includes the newMicrosoft Windows 7 operating system. It will be available for $199after mail-in rebate via an AT&T Promotion Card and a two-year dataservice contract.
With a starting weight of 2.57 pounds, the HP Mini 110 offersa 10.1 inch LED anti-glare widescreen display, 1GB of memory, an IntelAtom processor, a 160GB hard drive(1), and an HP webcam with anintegrated microphone. It comes with HP QuickSync to enable automaticsynching of files saved on the Mini with a home or work PC whenconnected to the same Wi-Fi network. Plus, the HP Mini 110 is backed bysuperb HP service and support.

eunoia's ASUS Xtreme Design Rig

eunoia — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 23:26:54 GMT

EVGA 4 LYFE! (Still a bit of sour grapes on this one.)

Amdcrankitup,s Upgrade Thanks to Tanka!!!!!

amdcrankitup — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 17:34:49 GMT

I havent been online for a little while been a little Sick but just got to a friends house got a couple pictures to post! Recently I got a gift from Tanka who I want to thank very much.He donated me a Cool IT Domino water cooler for my rig which I have installed and even so I havent made it to my goal of 4 ghz I have installed it and wanted to show Tanka it was being put to good use. Also I have upgraded my Bios from stock 0705 to a couple of new ones which Im testing both of them and those are 1005 and 1202. So Im planning on if it is obtainable with my current specs: hitting that 4 ghz barrier this week. So all I,ve got now is some pictures of the Cool IT installed and due to the bios flash Im able to also show you a 4 core Phenom II x3 Be 720!!!! Since this is by stock a 3 core CPU I thought you might find this interesting so It might take a couple of post to get them all in so Im gng to try. Tell me what you think! Most of all Thanks Tanka for such a nice gift and I,ll post some temp graphs later!!!

Nice looking Water cooling Thanks again Tanka!!!

Bios update to Asus M4a79T Deluxe

I have some more pics Im gng to post probably today so bear with me and the highest clock I,ve got from my Rig is from stock of 2.8 ghz to now barely over but not yet stable is 3.903 ghz so I hope to suprize you guys soon!!!!!, This week soon!

Well as you can see the picture showing the status moniter from AOD cut off the last active core so give me a little while and I,ll resize it to give you a better look but below it is a screenshot of a 4 core Phenom 720! Darn I,ll fix it soon!

KLsi (Kelvin Lo)'s Extreme design- Project Work Log

klsi — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 23:27:55 GMT

With all the sponsors supplying top-of-line hardware to the participants, many unique features are already featured in the hardware. Hence, this design takes advantages of all the features and pushes the envelope even further.

I believe every computer user would want the best computing experience. Therefore, this computer design is to maximize that. The goals for this design are to have high-performance computer that could have lower power consumption, lower noise output while maximizing system performance.

I will be using the Antec 900 gaming computer case for this project. It allows high air flow while possibilities to improve acoustic properties. The front bezels and top fan will be painted blue to match the color theme of the Asus P7P55 motherboard. Also, a modified easy overclocking button will be extended and mounted on the front. While the highly efficient Antec Quattro 850 power supply has certifications from RoHs and plus bronze, keeping energy wasted minimum. Samsung SSD allows extremely high efficient drive performance while outputting 0dB of noise. Also, equipping G.Skill high performance memory and Intel Core i7, I could be rendering my architectural schoolwork (CPU) while participating at Folding@home(GPU) and help cure diseases. Both CPU and GPU would be installed with aftermarket cooler to achieve lower noise output and better cooling. Depending on the results, most of the 120mm case fans would also be exchanged for silent fans. In order to demonstrate the goals, this computer will be monitor with a power consumption meter at the power outlet to show how much power is used. Also, I will showing how other components allowing me to contribute to folding@home while keeping up with work.

Olive 4HD Music Server Caters To The (Rich) Audiophile

News — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 15:49:12 GMT

Love your music? No, we mean do you really, really love your music? If you're willing to pay to prove it, Olive has a new music server just for you. The all new 4HD is a specialized, high-end server designed to stream tunes from its internal hard drive out onto whatever high-end speaker setup you have, and the integrated Gigabit Ethernet socket + 802.11n Wi-Fi module enable it to send/receive signals over a home network.

The main feature here (aside from the 2TB of internal storage space) is the ability to offer sound quality up to 250 times the resolution of a standard CD. Of course, the human ear probably can't tell the difference, but it's the numbers that count, right? The 4HD has a proprietary high-resolution Digital-Analog-Converter (DAC), featuring Texas Instrument's 192khz/24-bit Burr-Brown PCM1792A.

It also ships with an integrated optical drive for playback and ripping to the HDD, and better still, the HDMI socket enables on-screen music navigation on your HDTV. Oh, and Olive also a free iPhone/iPod Touch application that allows users to control the HD Hi-Fi Music Server from anywhere within the home network. Handy, no? The only problem here is the $1999 asking price, which is likely "steep" by most anyone's definition.

Sony's Reader Daily Edition Up For Pre-Sale At $399

News — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 22:33:02 GMT

It may have been Kindle's world for awhile, but that's hardly the case any longer. Amazon has seen stiff competition from both Barnes & Noble (with its Nook) and Sony (with a variety of Readers), but the latter is finally stepping up its game in a big way. The Reader Daily Edition, which is Sony's most serious rival in the connected e-reader market, is now up for pre-sale at SonyStyle.com.

The Daily Reader includes integrated 3G from AT&T, giving users the opportunity to download books over the air so long as an AT&T tower is nearby. The device itself will include a menu-drive, 7" touch panel that can be used with a finger or stylus, and there's even a built-in Oxford American English Dictionary. We're hearing that some shipments may not make it out before Christmas, so if you're hoping to get one under the tree, you could probably go ahead and snag your place in line ASAP.

Sony’s new Reader Daily Edition is now on sale at SonyStyle.com.
o          The Reader Daily Edition provides wireless access to Sony’s eBookstore from most of the U.S.
o          Wireless access is provided by a 3G mobile broadband network.
o         The Reader Daily Edition’s seven-inch wide, full touch screen displayprovides intuitive navigation and comfortable layout of content,including newspapers and magazines, in portrait or landscapeorientation.
o         In portrait mode, about 30-35 lines of text are visible, making theexperience very similar to that of a printed paperback book.
o          A high contrast ratio with 16 levels of grayscale ensures that text and images are crisp and easy to read.
o          The Reader Daily Edition features an attractive aluminum body with an integrated protective cover.
o          Easy access to the embedded dictionary with a simple double-tap on a word for its meaning.
o         The Reader Daily Edition has enough internal memory to hold more thanone thousand standard eBooks and expansion slots for memory cards tohold even more.
o          It will sell for about $399.
o          Newspaper and magazine content providers to be unveiled within the next month.