A wireless TV???
Dionne checks out Panasonic’s new range of wireless TV kit.
Check the article at Gadget Show Live - Panasonic wireless TVs
Friday, May 1, 2009
Monday, April 27, 2009
Xbox-360 Games
In 2001, Xbox 360 was released presenting the first high-profile seventh generation video games console. The spectacular gaming device was highly appreciated all over the world. The most attractive point of all your Xbox game is that you can enjoy playing games sitting in your home.
The release of Xbox 360 games created hype in minds of all viewers, for its over-demand units sale at the time of launch. Xbox has played a vital role in off beating subtle fight compared to other game station like Playstation of Sony, Nintendo Wii, and Nintendo DS. These gadgets come entrenched with various attractive and exciting games.
The gaming industry has flourished in the most alluring way. They offer high end gaming gadgets in a very attractive price. The Microsoft Company also enhanced their gaming gadget with different upgraded version. For example Xbox Elite, Xbox Pro, Xbox Arcade, and Xbox Core in the over whelming market in demand of good response. Every processor of Xbox 360 game was alike with some more or less similar features but with complete advanced features.
-Wired & wireless controller
-Ethernet cable for Xbox live.
-Headset
-Entertainment media package. And to adorn the case of Xbox 360 game there is set of couple of game set offered.
The Xbox 360’s genuine graphical user interface is the Xbox 360 Dashboard.
Thus, playing Xbox 360 game is just a great experience. Even for those who like to play video games they can also opt for Xbox Video Game. The latest Xbox Video Games would surely insert extra flavor to your gaming skills.
Source article: Xbox-360 Games
The release of Xbox 360 games created hype in minds of all viewers, for its over-demand units sale at the time of launch. Xbox has played a vital role in off beating subtle fight compared to other game station like Playstation of Sony, Nintendo Wii, and Nintendo DS. These gadgets come entrenched with various attractive and exciting games.
The gaming industry has flourished in the most alluring way. They offer high end gaming gadgets in a very attractive price. The Microsoft Company also enhanced their gaming gadget with different upgraded version. For example Xbox Elite, Xbox Pro, Xbox Arcade, and Xbox Core in the over whelming market in demand of good response. Every processor of Xbox 360 game was alike with some more or less similar features but with complete advanced features.
-Wired & wireless controller
-Ethernet cable for Xbox live.
-Headset
-Entertainment media package. And to adorn the case of Xbox 360 game there is set of couple of game set offered.
The Xbox 360’s genuine graphical user interface is the Xbox 360 Dashboard.
Thus, playing Xbox 360 game is just a great experience. Even for those who like to play video games they can also opt for Xbox Video Game. The latest Xbox Video Games would surely insert extra flavor to your gaming skills.
Source article: Xbox-360 Games
Friday, April 3, 2009
LGenius: LG’s New Wacky TV Technologies
LG introduces some truly genius innovations at a recent conference in Korea. What do you get when you combine a keynote with new technologies from LG? Watch the video and see for yourself…
To see more crazy and outrageous future LG ideas or to submit and share your own ideas, check out the LGenius Community.
SocialMedia8 started the natural seeding and social media optimization of the LG video on 26 March 2009 in the UK and Germany. At 30 March the ViralTracker dashboard showed already +100.000 clip views.
The social space again proves that brands can earn attention with free viral dynamics. We like to call it Earned Media, WOM or Buzz.
Source article: LG’s New Wacky TV Technologies
To see more crazy and outrageous future LG ideas or to submit and share your own ideas, check out the LGenius Community.
SocialMedia8 started the natural seeding and social media optimization of the LG video on 26 March 2009 in the UK and Germany. At 30 March the ViralTracker dashboard showed already +100.000 clip views.
The social space again proves that brands can earn attention with free viral dynamics. We like to call it Earned Media, WOM or Buzz.
Source article: LG’s New Wacky TV Technologies
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Nokia 5630 Xpress Music Review
Nokia 5630 Xpress Music Mobile PhoneDespite owning the ground in all round media devices with the Nseries range, Nokia don’t have it all to themselves when it comes to music focussed devices. So, slowly the largest phone manufacturer in the world has been putting a plan into play to dominate this sector of the market, too. First, they announce the ‘Comes With Music’ service, which allows users who purchase compatible handsets to download unlimited music tracks from the Nokia Music Store for no extra cost. Then, they beef up the Xpress Music range with a number of well featured, music focussed handsets. One of the latest of these is the Nokia 5630 Xpress Music.
The 5630 Xpress Music handset comes complete in the box with a 4GB memory card, which allows you to store 1,000’s of music tracks. One of the really cool features on the handset is the ‘Say it and Play it’ feature. Simply, this allows you to speak the name of an artist or song title, and the device will automatically play it for you. Alongside the music player the handset has an internet radio application, a separate file and storage section for podcasts and a built in FM radio. With support for Bluetooth 2.0 you can listen to your music in stereo without a wired connection; otherwise you can listen with your favourite headphones thanks to the built in 3.5mm audio output jack. Another way of using this is if your car or home stereo has an audio input option, with a 3.5mm to 3.5mm cable you can play all your music from your phone through the connected stereo speakers.
The device has dedicated music keys, for controlling music playback. The keys on the side of the phone are easily accessible, as is the alphanumeric keypad, but the send/end call keys, soft option keys and menu/clear/cancel keys seem very small and closely situated together, which could cause problems.
The thing with the 5630 is, it is not *just* a music device. Underneath the hood, so to speak, is a fully featured Nokia S60 smartphone. There is support for HSDPA for super fast music downloads, alongside HSUPA for fast upload times as well. With a built in 3.2 megapixel camera, HSUPA means snaps taken on the phone can be quickly uploaded to your favourite file sharing or social networking site. In practical terms, this means within minutes of taking a picture, it can be published to the internet for the world to see.
The fun doesn’t end with music and sharing, though. The Nokia 5630 Xpress Music is also one of the few non-Nseries N-Gage compatible devices on the market. This means the whole catalogue of N-Gage titles is available for the device for excellent gaming on the move. Despite this, the 5630 XM measures in at just 12mm thick, making it the slimmest and lightest N-Gage device to date.
There are some serious features with the 5630 too, such as built in WiFi support, Quad band GSM and Dual Band HSDPA, for serious data usage. There is a built in email application, and the ever excellent S60 web browser, too. The device runs on the latest version of S60, so includes some nice menu effects called transitions, for those that like that sort of thing. There should be no surprises in learning the handset has a QVGA TFT screen, supporting up to 16 million colours, as this is almost the Nokia standard these days. The screen measures 2.2 inches point to point. Internally there is a very impressive 150MB of internal memory capacity, with support for expansion up to 16GB with an additional Micro SD memory card.
Overall, the Nokia 5630 Xpress Music is a capable device offering a wide choice of music options, good connectivity for sharing and uploading, and excellent gameplay thanks to the N-Gage support. Initial impressions suggest the only downsides to the device appear to be a low capacity battery and a cramped keypad. The 5630 Xpress Music has an expected release date of Q2 2009.
Source article: Nokia 5630 Xpress Music Review
The 5630 Xpress Music handset comes complete in the box with a 4GB memory card, which allows you to store 1,000’s of music tracks. One of the really cool features on the handset is the ‘Say it and Play it’ feature. Simply, this allows you to speak the name of an artist or song title, and the device will automatically play it for you. Alongside the music player the handset has an internet radio application, a separate file and storage section for podcasts and a built in FM radio. With support for Bluetooth 2.0 you can listen to your music in stereo without a wired connection; otherwise you can listen with your favourite headphones thanks to the built in 3.5mm audio output jack. Another way of using this is if your car or home stereo has an audio input option, with a 3.5mm to 3.5mm cable you can play all your music from your phone through the connected stereo speakers.
The device has dedicated music keys, for controlling music playback. The keys on the side of the phone are easily accessible, as is the alphanumeric keypad, but the send/end call keys, soft option keys and menu/clear/cancel keys seem very small and closely situated together, which could cause problems.
The thing with the 5630 is, it is not *just* a music device. Underneath the hood, so to speak, is a fully featured Nokia S60 smartphone. There is support for HSDPA for super fast music downloads, alongside HSUPA for fast upload times as well. With a built in 3.2 megapixel camera, HSUPA means snaps taken on the phone can be quickly uploaded to your favourite file sharing or social networking site. In practical terms, this means within minutes of taking a picture, it can be published to the internet for the world to see.
The fun doesn’t end with music and sharing, though. The Nokia 5630 Xpress Music is also one of the few non-Nseries N-Gage compatible devices on the market. This means the whole catalogue of N-Gage titles is available for the device for excellent gaming on the move. Despite this, the 5630 XM measures in at just 12mm thick, making it the slimmest and lightest N-Gage device to date.
There are some serious features with the 5630 too, such as built in WiFi support, Quad band GSM and Dual Band HSDPA, for serious data usage. There is a built in email application, and the ever excellent S60 web browser, too. The device runs on the latest version of S60, so includes some nice menu effects called transitions, for those that like that sort of thing. There should be no surprises in learning the handset has a QVGA TFT screen, supporting up to 16 million colours, as this is almost the Nokia standard these days. The screen measures 2.2 inches point to point. Internally there is a very impressive 150MB of internal memory capacity, with support for expansion up to 16GB with an additional Micro SD memory card.
Overall, the Nokia 5630 Xpress Music is a capable device offering a wide choice of music options, good connectivity for sharing and uploading, and excellent gameplay thanks to the N-Gage support. Initial impressions suggest the only downsides to the device appear to be a low capacity battery and a cramped keypad. The 5630 Xpress Music has an expected release date of Q2 2009.
Source article: Nokia 5630 Xpress Music Review
Latest Nokia N97 Mobile Phone With Vibrant Features
The Nokia N97 is a fantastic phone with outrageous features. The communication gadget is power-packed with many advanced technologies. The widget is integrated with sliding design and is popular for its shiny look. The handset has a large screen and QWERTY keyboard that give more comfort to work. The widget has GPRS, HSCSD, HSDPA and EDGE technologies, which provide uninterrupted and a high-speed Internet connectivity. The communication gadget is light-weighted and handy. The handset provides facilities to download games, images and ringtones.
This latest mobile phone is embedded with A-GPS function to navigate the way even in the remote areas. It is integrated with a high-end music player which supports MP3, WMA and eAAC+ formats. The video player of the handset is comprised with MPEG4, WMV and 3GP formats. The phone supports TV-Out function to see the images on your TV screen. The handset is equipped with WAP 2.0 for high speed Internet connectivity. The most prime feature of the phone is that its 5 mega pixels camera with auto-focus and Carl Zeiss optics which give a sharp quality pictures and videos. It is empowered with digital compass. The widget has a TFT display that provides a high resolution of 360 x 640 pixels which allows sharp visual outlooks.The Nokia N97 has some disadvantages. The memory of the handset is 32 MB and expandable memory of up to 16 GB. It means that it does not allow the users to store a large numbers of files on the internal space of the mobile phone. The phone does not give more options in terms of colour. It comes in only white and black colour in the market. I think that overall the phone performance is good. It gives various options to the users to use their phone as a mini computer.
Source article: Latest Nokia N97 Mobile Phone With Vibrant Features
This latest mobile phone is embedded with A-GPS function to navigate the way even in the remote areas. It is integrated with a high-end music player which supports MP3, WMA and eAAC+ formats. The video player of the handset is comprised with MPEG4, WMV and 3GP formats. The phone supports TV-Out function to see the images on your TV screen. The handset is equipped with WAP 2.0 for high speed Internet connectivity. The most prime feature of the phone is that its 5 mega pixels camera with auto-focus and Carl Zeiss optics which give a sharp quality pictures and videos. It is empowered with digital compass. The widget has a TFT display that provides a high resolution of 360 x 640 pixels which allows sharp visual outlooks.The Nokia N97 has some disadvantages. The memory of the handset is 32 MB and expandable memory of up to 16 GB. It means that it does not allow the users to store a large numbers of files on the internal space of the mobile phone. The phone does not give more options in terms of colour. It comes in only white and black colour in the market. I think that overall the phone performance is good. It gives various options to the users to use their phone as a mini computer.
Source article: Latest Nokia N97 Mobile Phone With Vibrant Features
Sony Ericsson T707 a 'magic wand'
Sony Ericsson has announced that its new T707 mobile phone operates like a "magic wand".
The sleek handset uses the latest sensory technology and can be operated by the wave of a hand across the screen, according to the manufacturer.
Tennis star Maria Sharapova launched the phone last week, commenting that it is her "ultimate new accessory" because she is always on the move.
"I need a phone that is easy to use - and of course chic as well. It's great to have a phone that looks good, but also lets me keep up to date," she said.
Other features of the phone include Bluetooth audio streaming, the Playnow download service and an FM radio.
The manufacturer teamed up with Sharapova's counterparts Venus Williams and Andy Murray at the Sony Ericsson Open in Miami last week, which saw the pair have a rally whilst stood on two cars stuck in traffic in the city.
To view images of the product, click here.
Source article: Sony Ericsson T707 a 'magic wand'
The sleek handset uses the latest sensory technology and can be operated by the wave of a hand across the screen, according to the manufacturer.
Tennis star Maria Sharapova launched the phone last week, commenting that it is her "ultimate new accessory" because she is always on the move.
"I need a phone that is easy to use - and of course chic as well. It's great to have a phone that looks good, but also lets me keep up to date," she said.
Other features of the phone include Bluetooth audio streaming, the Playnow download service and an FM radio.
The manufacturer teamed up with Sharapova's counterparts Venus Williams and Andy Murray at the Sony Ericsson Open in Miami last week, which saw the pair have a rally whilst stood on two cars stuck in traffic in the city.
To view images of the product, click here.
Source article: Sony Ericsson T707 a 'magic wand'
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Enjoy latest multimedia features with Sony Ericsson W595 and Samsung M8800 Pixon
Samsung and Sony Ericsson are two brands that have attracted a lot of users with their models that come enhanced with sophisticated features and nice looks. Sony Ericsson W595 and Samsung M8800 Pixon can be taken for instance. These models are full of advanced multimedia features.
A number of mobile phone brands are in market that are attracting the people with their models around the world which come enhanced with sophisticated features. Fashionable looks is another best feature that is considered by the people before purchasing a handset. Almost every brand is paying attention towards these aspects. Sony Ericsson and Samsung are two popular brands that have created a lot of craze in the market with their products with astonishing features and stunning looks. The features of the models from these two brands are not less than the models of any other big brand.
One instance for each can be taken. The Sony Ericsson W595 is one of the models that is popular among the users for its looks as well as features. This is a 3G enabled handset with many multimedia features. This handset comes with the choices of a lot of colours which are jungle gray, lava black, ruby black, cosmopolitan white, active blue, peachy pink and sandy gold. This is the handset with sleek dimensions of 100 x 47 x 14 mm and boasts of having weight just 104 grams. It has 3.2 mega pixels of camera with picture resolution of 2048 x 1536 pixels. Entertainment lovers can rejoice with this widget. Its FM radio with RDS option would allow you to enjoy the interesting programs. Enjoy your favourite music track with its Walkman players. Moreover, gaming, Internet, messaging and everything desired by the users of present days are available in this wonderful handset. Its standard battery delivers mammoth battery backup i.e., 9 hours of talk time, 385 hours of standby time and 26 hours of music time.
If we talk about Samsung, then Samsung M8800 Pixon can be discussed as one of the instance. It also has astonishing multimedia features. It has 8 mega pixels of camera. You can capture the images with crystal clarity. Moreover, it has TV-out feature that allows the user to view all the images and videos on the screen of your television. Its entertainment features even include wonderful audio and video players, surround sound facility and FM radio. It has five preloaded games and more can be downloaded if required. This is a GPS enabled handset that would help you in locating yourself in an unknown destination. Its standard battery delivers up to 3 hours 4 minutes of talk time and 290 hours of standby time. About its physical segments, it has the weight of 124 grams and dimensions of 107.9 x 54.6 x 13.8 mm
There are several features which can be found common in both Sony Ericsson W595 and Samsung M8800 Pixon handsets. Some of these are discussed above. You can see many more features like these. The Bluetooth feature exists in both the models. This is a wireless system that allows the users to transfer the data to other compatible devices without paying anything from your pocket. Both these handsets support third generation technology. If some of the features seem lacking in any of these handset, then those can be ignored due to other good features. Both these models have nice features and great looks. Users can choose the handset, the features of which are much suitable for them. For sure, Sony Ericsson W595 and Samsung M8800 will be the right choice for the users.
Andrew Peterson is a professional writer, presently working for online shopping community store. He is writing on various products and services to distinguish price comparison on cheap mobiles, broadband comparison, cheap gas and electricity providers, Contract Phones,Sim Free Mobile Phones and many others.
Source article: Enjoy latest multimedia features with Sony Ericsson W595 and Samsung M8800 Pixon
A number of mobile phone brands are in market that are attracting the people with their models around the world which come enhanced with sophisticated features. Fashionable looks is another best feature that is considered by the people before purchasing a handset. Almost every brand is paying attention towards these aspects. Sony Ericsson and Samsung are two popular brands that have created a lot of craze in the market with their products with astonishing features and stunning looks. The features of the models from these two brands are not less than the models of any other big brand.
One instance for each can be taken. The Sony Ericsson W595 is one of the models that is popular among the users for its looks as well as features. This is a 3G enabled handset with many multimedia features. This handset comes with the choices of a lot of colours which are jungle gray, lava black, ruby black, cosmopolitan white, active blue, peachy pink and sandy gold. This is the handset with sleek dimensions of 100 x 47 x 14 mm and boasts of having weight just 104 grams. It has 3.2 mega pixels of camera with picture resolution of 2048 x 1536 pixels. Entertainment lovers can rejoice with this widget. Its FM radio with RDS option would allow you to enjoy the interesting programs. Enjoy your favourite music track with its Walkman players. Moreover, gaming, Internet, messaging and everything desired by the users of present days are available in this wonderful handset. Its standard battery delivers mammoth battery backup i.e., 9 hours of talk time, 385 hours of standby time and 26 hours of music time.
If we talk about Samsung, then Samsung M8800 Pixon can be discussed as one of the instance. It also has astonishing multimedia features. It has 8 mega pixels of camera. You can capture the images with crystal clarity. Moreover, it has TV-out feature that allows the user to view all the images and videos on the screen of your television. Its entertainment features even include wonderful audio and video players, surround sound facility and FM radio. It has five preloaded games and more can be downloaded if required. This is a GPS enabled handset that would help you in locating yourself in an unknown destination. Its standard battery delivers up to 3 hours 4 minutes of talk time and 290 hours of standby time. About its physical segments, it has the weight of 124 grams and dimensions of 107.9 x 54.6 x 13.8 mm
There are several features which can be found common in both Sony Ericsson W595 and Samsung M8800 Pixon handsets. Some of these are discussed above. You can see many more features like these. The Bluetooth feature exists in both the models. This is a wireless system that allows the users to transfer the data to other compatible devices without paying anything from your pocket. Both these handsets support third generation technology. If some of the features seem lacking in any of these handset, then those can be ignored due to other good features. Both these models have nice features and great looks. Users can choose the handset, the features of which are much suitable for them. For sure, Sony Ericsson W595 and Samsung M8800 will be the right choice for the users.
Andrew Peterson is a professional writer, presently working for online shopping community store. He is writing on various products and services to distinguish price comparison on cheap mobiles, broadband comparison, cheap gas and electricity providers, Contract Phones,Sim Free Mobile Phones and many others.
Source article: Enjoy latest multimedia features with Sony Ericsson W595 and Samsung M8800 Pixon
Microsoft Xbox 360 Elite Console (Red) with Resident Evil 5
SynopsisMove with style through amazing worlds of action and imagination with the Xbox 360 Elite console. This system is all suited up in a vibrant red finish and comes bundled with a red wireless controller, black Xbox Live wired headset, HDMI cable, Ethernet cable, component HD A/V cable and the terrifying game Resident Evil 5. Xbox 360 Elite has enough space for a whole library of downloadable content and comes with three powerful core processors, 16:9 cinematic aspect ratio, antialiasing for smooth textures, full surround sound capabilities and DVD playback with upscaling capabilities right out of the box. The huge 120GB detachable hard drive lets you easily save games and store television shows, movies, music, pictures, trailers, extra game levels, demos and other downloadable content available from the Xbox Live Marketplace. The sleek red high-performance wireless controller with black accents has a range of up to 30?. The headset lets you strategize while playing together online, trade taunts with your opponents and send voice messages to friends on Xbox Live. The HDMI cable delivers HD video (up to 1080p) and multichannel surround sound all from one cable. Included in the package is the terrifying Resident Evil 5 game, which transports you to a world where you go head-to-head with hordes of rampaging enemies in your quest to investigate a terrifying epidemic. As an added bonus, you’ll also receive Xbox Live tokens for the Street Fighter game and Resident Evil 5 theme.
Source article: Microsoft Xbox 360 Elite Console (Red) with Resident Evil 5
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
ST-Ericsson Launches Next-Generation Mobile Audio Chip to Deliver Supreme Music Quality With Substantial Improvements in Handset Battery Life
STw5211 DAC includes ST-Ericsson's Unique Playback Time Extender (PTE) Technology in a Highly-Integrated, Single-Chip Solution and Ultra-Small, Wafer-Level Package
GENEVA, Switzerland, March 30 /PRNewswire/ -- Building on its strengths in analog and mixed-signal process technology, ST-Ericsson today announced its latest high-quality audio digital-to-analog converter (DAC) for the mobile music market. STw5211 combines ST-Ericsson's innovative Playback Time Extender (PTE(TM)) processing technology with 102dB signal-to-noise ratio through the whole audio path, allowing OEMs to build music phones with the highest levels of audio quality and double today's typical 10-hour playback time. Available as a single-chip solution in an ultra-small, wafer-level chip scale package (WLCSP), STw5211 is the market's most integrated and cost-effective audio solution to boost playback time.
"STw5211 was developed to address increasing demand for mobile music handsets with both higher audio quality and longer playback time," said Monica de Virgiliis, Vice President, Wireless Multimedia Group, ST-Ericsson. "Typically, power consumption increases as features are enhanced and quality improved; however, STw5211 with PTE technology allows music to be played autonomously while the rest of the platform is switched into a power-saving state. This results in a substantial increase in battery life without any compromise in audio quality for the consumer."
STw5211 further extends ST-Ericsson's wide portfolio of audio solutions with enhanced performance.
Volume production of STw5211 is planned for August 2009, with samples available in April.
Notes to Editors
STw5211's high level of integration is achieved by using leading-edge 0.13-micron analog CMOS process. The only single-chip solution of its kind, STw5211 operates with a minimal bill of materials (BOM) in a tiny 2.6 x 2.6mm WLCSP package. By incorporating the power management circuitry, the device can be directly connected to the battery with no need for external voltage regulators. Additionally, the headset amplifier is of "true ground" type and does not need coupling capacitors.
Key features of STw5211 include:
- 102dB SNR audio quality
- Integrated PTE technology for extended playback
- 66dB THD
- 8 to 192kHz sample rate conversion
- 32kHz RTC clock-only operation
- System clock generator
- Ultra-small 2.6 x 2.6mm footprint, requiring few external components
About ST-Ericsson
ST-Ericsson is a world leader in developing and delivering a complete portfolio of innovative mobile platforms and cutting-edge wireless semiconductor solutions across the broad spectrum of mobile technologies. The company is a leading supplier to the top handset manufacturers and ST-Ericsson's products and technologies enable more than half of all phones in use today. The global company of 8,000 people generated pro-forma sales of about USD 3.6 billion in 2008. ST-Ericsson was established as a 50/50 joint venture by STMicroelectronics and Ericsson in February 2009, with headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland. More information about ST-Ericsson is available at http://www.stericsson.com.
Source article: ST-Ericsson Launches Next-Generation Mobile Audio Chip
GENEVA, Switzerland, March 30 /PRNewswire/ -- Building on its strengths in analog and mixed-signal process technology, ST-Ericsson today announced its latest high-quality audio digital-to-analog converter (DAC) for the mobile music market. STw5211 combines ST-Ericsson's innovative Playback Time Extender (PTE(TM)) processing technology with 102dB signal-to-noise ratio through the whole audio path, allowing OEMs to build music phones with the highest levels of audio quality and double today's typical 10-hour playback time. Available as a single-chip solution in an ultra-small, wafer-level chip scale package (WLCSP), STw5211 is the market's most integrated and cost-effective audio solution to boost playback time.
"STw5211 was developed to address increasing demand for mobile music handsets with both higher audio quality and longer playback time," said Monica de Virgiliis, Vice President, Wireless Multimedia Group, ST-Ericsson. "Typically, power consumption increases as features are enhanced and quality improved; however, STw5211 with PTE technology allows music to be played autonomously while the rest of the platform is switched into a power-saving state. This results in a substantial increase in battery life without any compromise in audio quality for the consumer."
STw5211 further extends ST-Ericsson's wide portfolio of audio solutions with enhanced performance.
Volume production of STw5211 is planned for August 2009, with samples available in April.
Notes to Editors
STw5211's high level of integration is achieved by using leading-edge 0.13-micron analog CMOS process. The only single-chip solution of its kind, STw5211 operates with a minimal bill of materials (BOM) in a tiny 2.6 x 2.6mm WLCSP package. By incorporating the power management circuitry, the device can be directly connected to the battery with no need for external voltage regulators. Additionally, the headset amplifier is of "true ground" type and does not need coupling capacitors.
Key features of STw5211 include:
- 102dB SNR audio quality
- Integrated PTE technology for extended playback
- 66dB THD
- 8 to 192kHz sample rate conversion
- 32kHz RTC clock-only operation
- System clock generator
- Ultra-small 2.6 x 2.6mm footprint, requiring few external components
About ST-Ericsson
ST-Ericsson is a world leader in developing and delivering a complete portfolio of innovative mobile platforms and cutting-edge wireless semiconductor solutions across the broad spectrum of mobile technologies. The company is a leading supplier to the top handset manufacturers and ST-Ericsson's products and technologies enable more than half of all phones in use today. The global company of 8,000 people generated pro-forma sales of about USD 3.6 billion in 2008. ST-Ericsson was established as a 50/50 joint venture by STMicroelectronics and Ericsson in February 2009, with headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland. More information about ST-Ericsson is available at http://www.stericsson.com.
Source article: ST-Ericsson Launches Next-Generation Mobile Audio Chip
Data Lifecycles ebook: Free Download
Businesses now rely almost entirely on applications and databases, causing data and storage needs to increase at astounding rates. It is therefore imperative for a company to optimize and simplify the complexity of managing its data resources.
Plenty of storage products are now available, however the challenge remains for companies to proactively manage their storage assets and align the resources to the various departments, divisions, geographical locations and business processes to achieve improved efficiency and profitability. Data Lifecycles identifies ways to incorporate an intelligent service platform to manage and map the storage of data. The authors give an overview of the latest trends and technologies in storage networking and cover critical issues such as world-wide compliance.
Data Lifecycles:
* Provides a single-source guide to data and storage methodologies, processes, technologies and compliance issues.
* Addresses the need of an encompassing intelligent data and storage management platform for modern businesses.
* Gives an overview of the latest data technologies and concepts such as utility computing and information lifecycle management.
* Clearly defines and describes lifecycle management and strategies to ensure growth of critical business data.
* Shows how to dramatically reduce the total cost of storage ownership and provide rapid return on investment.
* Enables customers to make decisions directed toward the purchase of storage tools and storage management solutions.
This text is an ideal introduction to modern data lifecycle management for network managers, system administrators, storage/system architects, network managers, information management directors as well as CIO/CTOs and their teams, senior IT managers and decision makers, and database administrators.
Download it here: http://uploading.com/files/I9BRSMBZ/kkk03.rar.html
Plenty of storage products are now available, however the challenge remains for companies to proactively manage their storage assets and align the resources to the various departments, divisions, geographical locations and business processes to achieve improved efficiency and profitability. Data Lifecycles identifies ways to incorporate an intelligent service platform to manage and map the storage of data. The authors give an overview of the latest trends and technologies in storage networking and cover critical issues such as world-wide compliance.
Data Lifecycles:
* Provides a single-source guide to data and storage methodologies, processes, technologies and compliance issues.
* Addresses the need of an encompassing intelligent data and storage management platform for modern businesses.
* Gives an overview of the latest data technologies and concepts such as utility computing and information lifecycle management.
* Clearly defines and describes lifecycle management and strategies to ensure growth of critical business data.
* Shows how to dramatically reduce the total cost of storage ownership and provide rapid return on investment.
* Enables customers to make decisions directed toward the purchase of storage tools and storage management solutions.
This text is an ideal introduction to modern data lifecycle management for network managers, system administrators, storage/system architects, network managers, information management directors as well as CIO/CTOs and their teams, senior IT managers and decision makers, and database administrators.
Download it here: http://uploading.com/files/I9BRSMBZ/kkk03.rar.html
Monday, March 30, 2009
Should you buy a DSi?
Keeping abreast of modern technology is a constant battle with your conscience. Each month seems to bring a new gadget that does something ever so slightly better than a gadget you already own, and it's all too easy to get swept along with the hype and make purchases that aren't strictly necessary, only to rue your hasty choice when your credit card statement arrives some days later.
Nintendo's forthcoming DSi is a case in point. While it's far from being an all-new console, it does offer some tangible improvements (and, some might argue, drawbacks) on the existing DS Lite hardware.
But is it worth picking one up?
Allow us to put your mind at rest by briefly skimming through the various positive and negative aspects of this new machine. Hopefully by the time you've digested this feature, you'll be better placed to decide if the DSi is the machine for you, or if you're happy to stick with what you know and hold onto your trusty DS Lite (or, if you're a stubborn traditionalist, your aging DS 'phat').
Aesthetic appeal
Let's be honest here, the original DS 'phat' looked like it had fallen out of the ugly tree and sustained disfiguring injuries on every branch on the way down. The DS Lite proved to be a facelift of truly epic proportions, granting fans the machine they probably should have gotten from day one.
The DSi isn't quite as drastic a design change, but it does look (and feel) more agreeable. The matt surface ensures that nightmarish smudgy finger marks will be a thing of the past and the slimmer frame (12 per cent thinner, fact fans) makes the system even more portable.
Technological advances
The most striking improvement in terms of hardware is the presence of larger screens - 3.25 inches in size, up from 3 inches on the DS Lite.
These displays now accommodate five brightness settings (the DS Lite had four) but it's worth noting that thanks to all this technological tomfoolery battery life is approximately 9 to 14 hours on the lowest brightness setting - a drop from the 15 to 19 hours of its ancestor. This is because the DSi uses a 840mAh battery instead of a 1000mAh variant, as was the case with the DS Lite.
Elsewhere, Nintendo has included the ability to 'hot swap' games, which means you no longer have to power down the system to load up a fresh title. Under the bonnet there's more RAM and the CPU is also more powerful, which logically means that the machine is capable of hosting more advanced software.
Nintendo has hinted that DSi-specific games will make an appearance, but common sense would suggest that developers will ignore the additional power and continue to cater mainly for the existing DS Lite hardware - at least until the DSi gains a significant foothold, anyway. In short, don't expect to see a dazzling standard of graphical opulence from day one.
Import fanatics might also want to note that DSi software is likely to be region-locked, meaning that US and Japanese games won't function on a UK DSi.
Read the full article here: Should you buy a DSi?
Zeebo to begin shipping a new wireless console
Guess there is less room now among the home videogame console market players as there is a new kid on the block to challenge the current dominance of the Nintendo Wii, Xbox 360 and Sony PS3. Zeebo will be the latest wireless videogame console to join the fray, shipping in Brazil first from next month onwards. This will not target the high end segment that are currently being dominated by the Xbox 360 and PS3, but will instead concentrate its efforts on emerging global markets by being the first affordable 3D game console that boasts secure 3G wireless game delivery while addressing the special requirements of these regions. All Zeebo systems will ship with a quartet of pre-loaded games, while owners have the option to download the fifth for free.
No console would be able to survive unless they have a bunch of reliable developers backing them up, and it is good to see Zeebo grabbing the attention of leading game publishers and developers such as Capcom, Com2uS, Digital Chocolate, EA Mobile, Gameloft, Glu, Id Software, Machineworks Northwest LLC, Namco Networks and THQ, where these companies will be porting over a wide array of console, PC, dedicated handheld and high-end mobile titles to the Zeebo platform.
It will retail for $199 in Brazil - roughly one-fifth the price of mainstream leading consoles. We find that a bit hard to swallow, as that would mean the prices of mainstream consoles have been inflated greatly in Brazil - after all, isn’t the Wii a mainstream console and does it not retail for just $249 locally here? For those who are rather tight on their budget at this point in time, the Zeebo is tipped to retail for under $179 later this year while dropping to $149 or less sometime next year if the volume sold is high.
Source: Zeebo to begin shipping a new wireless console
No console would be able to survive unless they have a bunch of reliable developers backing them up, and it is good to see Zeebo grabbing the attention of leading game publishers and developers such as Capcom, Com2uS, Digital Chocolate, EA Mobile, Gameloft, Glu, Id Software, Machineworks Northwest LLC, Namco Networks and THQ, where these companies will be porting over a wide array of console, PC, dedicated handheld and high-end mobile titles to the Zeebo platform.
It will retail for $199 in Brazil - roughly one-fifth the price of mainstream leading consoles. We find that a bit hard to swallow, as that would mean the prices of mainstream consoles have been inflated greatly in Brazil - after all, isn’t the Wii a mainstream console and does it not retail for just $249 locally here? For those who are rather tight on their budget at this point in time, the Zeebo is tipped to retail for under $179 later this year while dropping to $149 or less sometime next year if the volume sold is high.
Source: Zeebo to begin shipping a new wireless console
Towards digitalisation
The world is heading towards complete digitalisation. And in this case, Bangladesh is NOT lagging behind.
Over the recent months, Bangladesh has taken several initiatives in the form of different kinds of fairs, events, seminars and many other mediums focussing on a digital lifestyle.
And keeping that very focus in mind, Bangladesh Computer Samity (BCS) in cooperation with ICT Business Promotion Council of the Ministry of Science and ICT (Information and Communication Technology), yet again, has created immense buzz by organising another four-day grand exhibition at the Bangladesh China Friendship Conference Centre (BCFCC).
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina by cutting the ribbons on March 25, inaugurated this magnificent exposition called BCS Digital Expo 2009, leading to a modern world showcasing a digital lifestyle.
Keeping in line with their target, the theme of this year's expo is “Towards a Digital Bangladesh”. The aim behind this expo is to create a digital connection and interaction between the country's sci-tech industry and the people, in order to make the nation more aware of how to experience and enjoy a digital life using different kinds of technologies for the daily activities.
A total of 62 stalls and 16 pavilions (put up by 54 local and foreign exhibitors) have spread over the 200,000 square feet of the venue displaying computers, notebooks, mobiles, home theatre systems, HDTV, gaming consoles, home networking and security systems, digital kitchen appliances, digital fashion, technology in cars, imaging products, media streaming and many other modern products which makes life simple and easy for people from various walks of life.
Read the full article here: Towards digitalisation
Over the recent months, Bangladesh has taken several initiatives in the form of different kinds of fairs, events, seminars and many other mediums focussing on a digital lifestyle.
And keeping that very focus in mind, Bangladesh Computer Samity (BCS) in cooperation with ICT Business Promotion Council of the Ministry of Science and ICT (Information and Communication Technology), yet again, has created immense buzz by organising another four-day grand exhibition at the Bangladesh China Friendship Conference Centre (BCFCC).
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina by cutting the ribbons on March 25, inaugurated this magnificent exposition called BCS Digital Expo 2009, leading to a modern world showcasing a digital lifestyle.
Keeping in line with their target, the theme of this year's expo is “Towards a Digital Bangladesh”. The aim behind this expo is to create a digital connection and interaction between the country's sci-tech industry and the people, in order to make the nation more aware of how to experience and enjoy a digital life using different kinds of technologies for the daily activities.
A total of 62 stalls and 16 pavilions (put up by 54 local and foreign exhibitors) have spread over the 200,000 square feet of the venue displaying computers, notebooks, mobiles, home theatre systems, HDTV, gaming consoles, home networking and security systems, digital kitchen appliances, digital fashion, technology in cars, imaging products, media streaming and many other modern products which makes life simple and easy for people from various walks of life.
Read the full article here: Towards digitalisation
Sony Ericsson unveils T707 for Maria Sharapova and fans
After Sony Ericsson signed on Maria Sharapova as its global ambassador in January 2008, the Russian tennis star, who is turning 22 this year, has been busy on and off the court. Aside from being involved in designing a collection of accessories, she has also been trying out new phones, the latest being the T707 that has just been announced.
Due out in selected markets from Q2, the T707 has a mirror-like surface with a hidden OLED screen that's reminiscent of the Japanese "keitai" (mobile phone). There's also gesture control which lets you reject calls and snooze alarms by waving your hand over the screen, a 3.2-megapixel camera, FM radio, Bluetooth stereo and support for HSDPA. No word on the price, though the phone will be available in Mysterious Black, Spring Rose and Lucid Blue when it ships.
Source Article: Sony Ericsson unveils T707 for Maria Sharapova and fans
Due out in selected markets from Q2, the T707 has a mirror-like surface with a hidden OLED screen that's reminiscent of the Japanese "keitai" (mobile phone). There's also gesture control which lets you reject calls and snooze alarms by waving your hand over the screen, a 3.2-megapixel camera, FM radio, Bluetooth stereo and support for HSDPA. No word on the price, though the phone will be available in Mysterious Black, Spring Rose and Lucid Blue when it ships.
Source Article: Sony Ericsson unveils T707 for Maria Sharapova and fans
Sony Ericsson T707 mobile phone coming soon
Sony Ericsson T707 mobile phone Sony Ericsson introduces its latest mobile phone known as the T707 which guarantees to add color, glamour and style to the user. The T707 is designed to look chic on whatever you wear. The mobile phone has been launched by Sony Ericsson along with tennis sensation Maria Sharapova.
Besides being stylish, the T707 clamshell phone is also compact and light in weight. It weighs 95gms and is 93×50x14.1mm in size. The mobile phone is available in three vibrant colors which are Mysterious Black, Spring Rose and Lucid Blue.
The Sony Ericsson T707 is a user-friendly phone which allows consumers to personalize a whole array of settings to suit their needs. On receiving an incoming call, the mobile phone lights up and comes alive with different colors depending on the caller. It also gives a pulsating notification for incoming calls and text messages.
Another feature exclusive to the T707 is the ability to end a call or put the alarm on snooze by simply waving your hand over the phone. The T707 sports a scratch-resistant monochromatic OLED external screen. It has a resolution of 128 x 36 pixels and is 1.1 inch in size.
Linda Schori, Global Marketing Business Manager for Style Category, Sony Ericsson commented, “The T707 is the next step in the style evolution from Sony Ericsson. Maria Sharapova is the perfect partner for us as she exemplifies not only elegance but also substance, just like the T707. It works hard and is also sleek, glamorous and desirable – a truly winning combination!”
The Sony Ericsson T707 incorporates a 2.2 inch scratch-resistant screen with a resolution of 240 x 320 pixels to make viewing pictures, video and text a pleasure. The phone comes with a theme that has the ability to change depending on the time of the day. In the evening the theme transcends to a new one.
The T707 has a 3.2 megapixel camera to capture all those precious moments. The pictures can then viewed by friends anywhere by uploading them via the HTML web browser onto social networking sites. The mobile phone also has a video call time of up to 2 hours.
Packed with loads of entertainment features, the T707 is the customers ideal travel companion. With the PlayNow button installed into the mobile, the user can download ringtones, music and games. It includes FM radio and Bluetooth audio streaming as well.
The T707 has a phone memory of up to 100MB and the memory card supports Memory Stick Micro (M2).
Videos, pictures and music can also be shared via Bluetooth or the USB cable. The Sony Ericsson T707 supports the GSM/GPRS/EDGE 850/900/1800/1900 UMTS/HSDPA 2100 networks. The mobile phone includes a talk time of up to 10 hours and standby time of up to 400 hours on GSM/GPRS. The talk time of the T707 is up to 4 hours and standby time is up to 400 hours for UMTS
The Sony Ericsson T707 will be available from Q2 of 2009 at select markets. The price of this clamshell mobile phone is not known.
Source Article: Sony Ericsson T707 mobile phone coming soon
Besides being stylish, the T707 clamshell phone is also compact and light in weight. It weighs 95gms and is 93×50x14.1mm in size. The mobile phone is available in three vibrant colors which are Mysterious Black, Spring Rose and Lucid Blue.
The Sony Ericsson T707 is a user-friendly phone which allows consumers to personalize a whole array of settings to suit their needs. On receiving an incoming call, the mobile phone lights up and comes alive with different colors depending on the caller. It also gives a pulsating notification for incoming calls and text messages.
Another feature exclusive to the T707 is the ability to end a call or put the alarm on snooze by simply waving your hand over the phone. The T707 sports a scratch-resistant monochromatic OLED external screen. It has a resolution of 128 x 36 pixels and is 1.1 inch in size.
Linda Schori, Global Marketing Business Manager for Style Category, Sony Ericsson commented, “The T707 is the next step in the style evolution from Sony Ericsson. Maria Sharapova is the perfect partner for us as she exemplifies not only elegance but also substance, just like the T707. It works hard and is also sleek, glamorous and desirable – a truly winning combination!”
The Sony Ericsson T707 incorporates a 2.2 inch scratch-resistant screen with a resolution of 240 x 320 pixels to make viewing pictures, video and text a pleasure. The phone comes with a theme that has the ability to change depending on the time of the day. In the evening the theme transcends to a new one.
The T707 has a 3.2 megapixel camera to capture all those precious moments. The pictures can then viewed by friends anywhere by uploading them via the HTML web browser onto social networking sites. The mobile phone also has a video call time of up to 2 hours.
Packed with loads of entertainment features, the T707 is the customers ideal travel companion. With the PlayNow button installed into the mobile, the user can download ringtones, music and games. It includes FM radio and Bluetooth audio streaming as well.
The T707 has a phone memory of up to 100MB and the memory card supports Memory Stick Micro (M2).
Videos, pictures and music can also be shared via Bluetooth or the USB cable. The Sony Ericsson T707 supports the GSM/GPRS/EDGE 850/900/1800/1900 UMTS/HSDPA 2100 networks. The mobile phone includes a talk time of up to 10 hours and standby time of up to 400 hours on GSM/GPRS. The talk time of the T707 is up to 4 hours and standby time is up to 400 hours for UMTS
The Sony Ericsson T707 will be available from Q2 of 2009 at select markets. The price of this clamshell mobile phone is not known.
Source Article: Sony Ericsson T707 mobile phone coming soon
Five Inventions That Will Change Your Life
Think you live in a high-tech age? We don't — not compared to what the world will be like if technologies scientists are currently working on come to pass.
Imagine cheap, reliable electricity that doesn't need to be generated in real-time ... brain diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's cured with the flick of a switch ... prescription drugs tailored to fit you, and only you.
Across the country, companies, universities and military agencies are working on new things you haven't heard about — until now.
FOXNews.com takes a look at five inventions that are in development at some of the most cutting-edge research labs in the U.S. and explores how they may change the way you live.
1. Neurotechnology
Imagine a loved one has been diagnosed with epilepsy after a terrifying seizure. Or you've been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease and know that you face years of slow decline as you lose control of your body.
If you could get a brain implant that would stop your symptoms, would you do it?
At the Massachusetts Institute of Technology's Media Lab, Dr. Ed Boyden is heading up a revolutionary new branch of research — neurotechnology — and using brain implants to do just that.
Boyden works on technologies designed to stimulate the brain from the inside, similiar to the cochlear implant device that is put into the ear to help restore hearing.
One method uses light to turn brain cells on and off, enabling doctors to correct diseases caused by poorly functioning neural pathways.
Via a retrovirus, photosensitive genes are implanted in brain cells to make them respond to signals sent by light-emitting brain implants.
"This is an earlier-stage project, but I think it's useful to see the field of neurotechnology and the emerging trends of how people are using biology and medicine," said Boyden.
"These kinds of technologies ... are going to impact our lives all the way from treating incurable disorders like Parkinson's and epilepsy, at some point to help people manipulate cognition and emotion ... That may be years out."
2. $100 DNA Sequencing
Imagine doctors using our DNA to discover how we will age, or which medications will suit us best?
If you're prone to heart disease, or to a certain kind of cancer, could DNA testing allow you to dodge the bullet?
Biotech start-up Bionanomatrix is working to create a simple, reliable and fast test that can sequence a patient's DNA so that your doctor can treat you instead of just anyone.
"They can match the drug to the disease, but not necessarily the drug to the patient. We want to enable the physician to use that information in making decisions," said CEO Mike Boyce-Jacino.
In Bionanomatrix's device, a microchip acts as a sort of tollbooth for DNA strands, forcing them into an orderly line so that they can be analyzed as they pass the "gate."
Bionanomatrix hopes to have a prototype to researchers by 2012, and a finished product in the hands of doctors by 2014. Each test will cost about $100.
"The technology is intended to allow us to really get at the genome in a much more cost-effective, efficient and accurate way," said Boyce-Jacino. "If we can take advantage of that extremely low cost of computer chip manufacturing and apply it to the complexity of DNA analysis, we can create a really low-cost device."
3. The Wireless Network After Next
There's been a disaster. Your town is flooded. Buildings are on fire. The power is out. The Internet isn't working. You can't use your cell phone.
How are you going to communicate with friends and family? With the police? What if you need an ambulance?
Military researchers are developing a decentralized "cognitive radio" system that would let public-safety officials and first responders set up their own wireless networks in times of crisis.
Cell-phone networks have thousands of weak spots — the base stations that connect to land lines. If the power goes out, so do they.
But cognitive radio will let each "smart" handset — picture a cross between a walkie-talkie and a Palm Pilot — act as a base station, much as Wi-Fi enabled laptops already can, creating a local "mesh" wireless network independent of any fixed center.
"Imagine if you could have gone in after [Hurricane] Katrina and had 10,000 of these radios and you turned them on and they found each other," said Preston Marshall, project manager with the Pentagon's Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA). "That would completely change things."
These "smart radios" can find each other when they're turned on, organize into networks and then be used to relay information across groups.
DARPA has been working on cognitive radio for about seven years and on the wireless network for about two. A field-ready test is about a year out.
4. Next-Generation Power
One of the biggest problems with wind and solar power is that they're unreliable. When the wind doesn't blow, or the sun doesn't shine, you get nothing.
And the problem with electricity is that you have to use it, or you lose it. We've never found a good way to store large amounts of electricity, such as what would be needed to power a city or a town. It all needs to be generated in real time for instant delivery.
Existing "smart grid" technology, which lets appliances schedule themselves around off-peak hours, will reduce the load on the electrical grid but still doesn't solve the main problem of storage.
Enter Professor Donald Sadoway of MIT's Department of Materials and Engineering, who's been working to develop a mega-battery that has the ability to store a lot of power.
"Everybody knows that the sun shines at a time that is a little bit different from peak demand," says Sadoway. "Wind blows when it wants. Without being able to harvest that energy, people are uncomfortable about deploying solar and wind because you don't have a reliable source of electric power."
"We need a better battery if we're going to improve our ability to make use of electric power," he told MIT's Technology Review magazine. "We have no way of harvesting that energy right now."
His battery design — a layer of electrolytes, a salty liquid that is able to conduct electricity, sandwiched between two layers of metal — isn't like the typical battery, which has solid materials that eventually wear out.
Sadoway hopes someday to wire battery packs together to create a system big enough to meet the demands of New York City, MIT Technology Review reported. But producing the 13,000 megawatts — roughly the city's peak demand — would require a network that covered more than 70,000 square yards.
For now, scientists are experimenting with an early-stage product, trying different combinations of metals and liquids to see which works best.
Researchers believe they could have a battery on the market in five years, according to MIT's magazine Technology Review.
5. Flexible Touchscreen Displays
How is an iPhone like a wine glass?
Both will shatter if you drop them, and they're kind of hard to use afterward.
Today's PC, PDA and TV displays today are made of glass and can be easily destroyed if they fall, throwing $200 or more down the drain.
Flexible displays, on the other hand, bend upon impact and withstand much more abuse when klutzy users drop them.
One flexible display being worked on even rolls up into a tube the size of a finger. Developed by Norwegian firm Polymer Vision, the Readius portable e-reader uses electronic ink like the Amazon Kindle — but the Kindle can't be rolled up and put into your pocket. Expect it on the market this year.
More rugged, less literary flex-screen devices are also underway.
Arizona State University and the U.S. Army are jointly working on flexible touchscreen displays to be used by soldiers in the field. They'll take a lot of punishment but still be able to function normally.
All of these things, if and when they come to pass, will pave the way for us to have healthier, happier lives.
For researchers and scientists, each invention is an inspiration to go above and beyond and stretch the limits of what is possible.
"DARPA developed the Internet, and people invented the Web on top of it," DARPA's Marshall told FOXNews.com by way of an example.
If we are able to develop alternative energy and store power, what will that enable us to do? What problems can we solve next?
Source Article: Five Inventions That Will Change Your Life
Imagine cheap, reliable electricity that doesn't need to be generated in real-time ... brain diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's cured with the flick of a switch ... prescription drugs tailored to fit you, and only you.
Across the country, companies, universities and military agencies are working on new things you haven't heard about — until now.
FOXNews.com takes a look at five inventions that are in development at some of the most cutting-edge research labs in the U.S. and explores how they may change the way you live.
1. Neurotechnology
Imagine a loved one has been diagnosed with epilepsy after a terrifying seizure. Or you've been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease and know that you face years of slow decline as you lose control of your body.
If you could get a brain implant that would stop your symptoms, would you do it?
At the Massachusetts Institute of Technology's Media Lab, Dr. Ed Boyden is heading up a revolutionary new branch of research — neurotechnology — and using brain implants to do just that.
Boyden works on technologies designed to stimulate the brain from the inside, similiar to the cochlear implant device that is put into the ear to help restore hearing.
One method uses light to turn brain cells on and off, enabling doctors to correct diseases caused by poorly functioning neural pathways.
Via a retrovirus, photosensitive genes are implanted in brain cells to make them respond to signals sent by light-emitting brain implants.
"This is an earlier-stage project, but I think it's useful to see the field of neurotechnology and the emerging trends of how people are using biology and medicine," said Boyden.
"These kinds of technologies ... are going to impact our lives all the way from treating incurable disorders like Parkinson's and epilepsy, at some point to help people manipulate cognition and emotion ... That may be years out."
2. $100 DNA Sequencing
Imagine doctors using our DNA to discover how we will age, or which medications will suit us best?
If you're prone to heart disease, or to a certain kind of cancer, could DNA testing allow you to dodge the bullet?
Biotech start-up Bionanomatrix is working to create a simple, reliable and fast test that can sequence a patient's DNA so that your doctor can treat you instead of just anyone.
"They can match the drug to the disease, but not necessarily the drug to the patient. We want to enable the physician to use that information in making decisions," said CEO Mike Boyce-Jacino.
In Bionanomatrix's device, a microchip acts as a sort of tollbooth for DNA strands, forcing them into an orderly line so that they can be analyzed as they pass the "gate."
Bionanomatrix hopes to have a prototype to researchers by 2012, and a finished product in the hands of doctors by 2014. Each test will cost about $100.
"The technology is intended to allow us to really get at the genome in a much more cost-effective, efficient and accurate way," said Boyce-Jacino. "If we can take advantage of that extremely low cost of computer chip manufacturing and apply it to the complexity of DNA analysis, we can create a really low-cost device."
3. The Wireless Network After Next
There's been a disaster. Your town is flooded. Buildings are on fire. The power is out. The Internet isn't working. You can't use your cell phone.
How are you going to communicate with friends and family? With the police? What if you need an ambulance?
Military researchers are developing a decentralized "cognitive radio" system that would let public-safety officials and first responders set up their own wireless networks in times of crisis.
Cell-phone networks have thousands of weak spots — the base stations that connect to land lines. If the power goes out, so do they.
But cognitive radio will let each "smart" handset — picture a cross between a walkie-talkie and a Palm Pilot — act as a base station, much as Wi-Fi enabled laptops already can, creating a local "mesh" wireless network independent of any fixed center.
"Imagine if you could have gone in after [Hurricane] Katrina and had 10,000 of these radios and you turned them on and they found each other," said Preston Marshall, project manager with the Pentagon's Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA). "That would completely change things."
These "smart radios" can find each other when they're turned on, organize into networks and then be used to relay information across groups.
DARPA has been working on cognitive radio for about seven years and on the wireless network for about two. A field-ready test is about a year out.
4. Next-Generation Power
One of the biggest problems with wind and solar power is that they're unreliable. When the wind doesn't blow, or the sun doesn't shine, you get nothing.
And the problem with electricity is that you have to use it, or you lose it. We've never found a good way to store large amounts of electricity, such as what would be needed to power a city or a town. It all needs to be generated in real time for instant delivery.
Existing "smart grid" technology, which lets appliances schedule themselves around off-peak hours, will reduce the load on the electrical grid but still doesn't solve the main problem of storage.
Enter Professor Donald Sadoway of MIT's Department of Materials and Engineering, who's been working to develop a mega-battery that has the ability to store a lot of power.
"Everybody knows that the sun shines at a time that is a little bit different from peak demand," says Sadoway. "Wind blows when it wants. Without being able to harvest that energy, people are uncomfortable about deploying solar and wind because you don't have a reliable source of electric power."
"We need a better battery if we're going to improve our ability to make use of electric power," he told MIT's Technology Review magazine. "We have no way of harvesting that energy right now."
His battery design — a layer of electrolytes, a salty liquid that is able to conduct electricity, sandwiched between two layers of metal — isn't like the typical battery, which has solid materials that eventually wear out.
Sadoway hopes someday to wire battery packs together to create a system big enough to meet the demands of New York City, MIT Technology Review reported. But producing the 13,000 megawatts — roughly the city's peak demand — would require a network that covered more than 70,000 square yards.
For now, scientists are experimenting with an early-stage product, trying different combinations of metals and liquids to see which works best.
Researchers believe they could have a battery on the market in five years, according to MIT's magazine Technology Review.
5. Flexible Touchscreen Displays
How is an iPhone like a wine glass?
Both will shatter if you drop them, and they're kind of hard to use afterward.
Today's PC, PDA and TV displays today are made of glass and can be easily destroyed if they fall, throwing $200 or more down the drain.
Flexible displays, on the other hand, bend upon impact and withstand much more abuse when klutzy users drop them.
One flexible display being worked on even rolls up into a tube the size of a finger. Developed by Norwegian firm Polymer Vision, the Readius portable e-reader uses electronic ink like the Amazon Kindle — but the Kindle can't be rolled up and put into your pocket. Expect it on the market this year.
More rugged, less literary flex-screen devices are also underway.
Arizona State University and the U.S. Army are jointly working on flexible touchscreen displays to be used by soldiers in the field. They'll take a lot of punishment but still be able to function normally.
All of these things, if and when they come to pass, will pave the way for us to have healthier, happier lives.
For researchers and scientists, each invention is an inspiration to go above and beyond and stretch the limits of what is possible.
"DARPA developed the Internet, and people invented the Web on top of it," DARPA's Marshall told FOXNews.com by way of an example.
If we are able to develop alternative energy and store power, what will that enable us to do? What problems can we solve next?
Source Article: Five Inventions That Will Change Your Life
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Power consumption: How much are your gadgets costing you?
Earth Hour started out in Sydney just two years ago as a pie-in-the-sky idea, but its amazing momentum will this year see residents of 2848 cities in 84 countries switching off their lights in a show of solidarity for the cause of reducing energy consumption.
While it's only saving a trickle of electricity compared with the amount the world's cities guzzle every day of the year, the strong support for Earth Hour can only help raise awareness of the need to monitor and control electricity consumption.
The connected (and expensive) home
For those who have invested in high-tech gear for the home, the need to monitor energy consumption may well have become apparent upon receipt of the first electricity bill. Just how much consumption has increased is a subject of no small contention — estimates that gadgets on standby consume around 10 per cent of a household's power supply are often bandied about as a rule of thumb, but don't necessarily stand up to scrutiny.
Nonetheless, there is no doubt that today's connected homes are more power-hungry than ever. From plasma TVs that may be left running when nobody's watching them, to games consoles idling unplayed, media centre PCs, home media servers and external hard drives buzzing away 24/7, to computers left running when unused — there are more ways than ever for your local electricity retailer to be jumping with joy.
Even in standby mode, conventional wisdom has been that many devices suck down power; combine this with their always-on nature, and the bills rack up fast. Yet while many conservation advocates recommend turning off appliances at the switch, this doesn't work so well for computer equipment.
Hard drives and memory sticks, for example, should be disconnected by the operating system before being powered off to ensure data integrity. In homes with voice over IP services running, broadband routers must be left on all the time to ensure continuous service. And for those people streaming music or video libraries around their homes, the computer must be left on all the time. And, as many parents have found out, turning off video-game consoles without giving the kids time to save their progress will inevitably end in harsh recriminations.
All this adds up to two things: first, turning your stuff off for Earth Hour takes more than just a few casual flicks of the switch. And second, that it's helpful to know just how much power your connected home is consuming, so you can balance the inconvenience of switching off with the real value it delivers.
Read the full article here: Power consumption of gadgets
While it's only saving a trickle of electricity compared with the amount the world's cities guzzle every day of the year, the strong support for Earth Hour can only help raise awareness of the need to monitor and control electricity consumption.
The connected (and expensive) home
For those who have invested in high-tech gear for the home, the need to monitor energy consumption may well have become apparent upon receipt of the first electricity bill. Just how much consumption has increased is a subject of no small contention — estimates that gadgets on standby consume around 10 per cent of a household's power supply are often bandied about as a rule of thumb, but don't necessarily stand up to scrutiny.
Nonetheless, there is no doubt that today's connected homes are more power-hungry than ever. From plasma TVs that may be left running when nobody's watching them, to games consoles idling unplayed, media centre PCs, home media servers and external hard drives buzzing away 24/7, to computers left running when unused — there are more ways than ever for your local electricity retailer to be jumping with joy.
Even in standby mode, conventional wisdom has been that many devices suck down power; combine this with their always-on nature, and the bills rack up fast. Yet while many conservation advocates recommend turning off appliances at the switch, this doesn't work so well for computer equipment.
Hard drives and memory sticks, for example, should be disconnected by the operating system before being powered off to ensure data integrity. In homes with voice over IP services running, broadband routers must be left on all the time to ensure continuous service. And for those people streaming music or video libraries around their homes, the computer must be left on all the time. And, as many parents have found out, turning off video-game consoles without giving the kids time to save their progress will inevitably end in harsh recriminations.
All this adds up to two things: first, turning your stuff off for Earth Hour takes more than just a few casual flicks of the switch. And second, that it's helpful to know just how much power your connected home is consuming, so you can balance the inconvenience of switching off with the real value it delivers.
Read the full article here: Power consumption of gadgets
Nokia mobile phones – Built with perfect combination of style and performance
Author: Sherrick
If we make a comprehensive study on the most desirable gadget among people of the world then of-course the name of mobile phone comes on the top. The primary reason behind it is obviously making wireless communication, but another major reason behind such huge popularity of the contemporary mobile handsets are the multi-purpose capability of these gadgets.
With the blessing of modern technology, now mobile phones are not just the simple communication gadgets. With the help of a contemporary mobile, one can do pure multimedia entertainment as well accomplish as business chores while on his move. If you want to possess such mobile handsets that would help you a lot to simplify your life then consider the latest Nokia mobile phones.
From the very beginning of its presence in the market, Nokia has tried to maintain the superior quality in their handsets. The contemporary Nokia models come under different variants that fulfil specialised needs of the users. Like for those who are looking for widgets for entertainment purposes, there are Multimedia phones which come under the 'N' series. On the other side, for the business persons and corporate executives, Nokia offers specially designed business models under the 'E' series. Apart from these, the supreme quality widget manufacturer offers a wide range of models that serve the communication needs in efficient ways.
When it comes to the discussion of latest Nokia phones then the name of N95 8GB comes on a remarkable position. By providing 8GB of internal memory, this multimedia mobile phone allows the users to store handsome amount of music, video, image and other files into it. Its sophisticated entertainment features like embedded multi-format supported media player, 5 mega pixels camera, integrated flash and built-in GPS navigation have made this model extremely popular among millions of people.
Another name of the most popular latest Nokia phone is the Nokia 6300. One will face no problem while carrying this sleek designed handset. This handsome yet powerful model will thrill the users by its high-resolution display unit. The users will love to capture all their happy and funny moments with ease and at high quality through its 2 mega pixels camera.
Among the latest Nokia phones, the name of Nokia 7310 supernova also comes. This cool looking model enables the users to access the Internet at supreme speed which will be possible for its high-speed GPRS and EDGE technologies. One can communicate with his near-dear ones much smoothly by using multiple messaging features, including SMS, MMS, Email and Instant Messaging.
When it comes to the most desirable Nokia business models then among all the names, the name of Nokia E71 comes on the top. This model comes preloaded with almost all the high-end business features that are required to simplify modern business works. The users can type text easily through its QWERTY keyboard. Accessing email and browsing the web will be much easy through its high-speed GPRS and EDGE technologies along with high-speed email messaging feature. One will be able to establish smooth connectivity with other devices with the help of sophisticated connectivity features, including Bluetooth, USB and Wi-Fi.
So, from the above discussion of latest Nokia phones, now it can be concluded that these handsets will fulfill all kinds of needs and that's why would be perfect choices for every segment of mobile users.
Source: Nokia mobile phones – Built with perfect combination of style and performance
If we make a comprehensive study on the most desirable gadget among people of the world then of-course the name of mobile phone comes on the top. The primary reason behind it is obviously making wireless communication, but another major reason behind such huge popularity of the contemporary mobile handsets are the multi-purpose capability of these gadgets.
With the blessing of modern technology, now mobile phones are not just the simple communication gadgets. With the help of a contemporary mobile, one can do pure multimedia entertainment as well accomplish as business chores while on his move. If you want to possess such mobile handsets that would help you a lot to simplify your life then consider the latest Nokia mobile phones.
From the very beginning of its presence in the market, Nokia has tried to maintain the superior quality in their handsets. The contemporary Nokia models come under different variants that fulfil specialised needs of the users. Like for those who are looking for widgets for entertainment purposes, there are Multimedia phones which come under the 'N' series. On the other side, for the business persons and corporate executives, Nokia offers specially designed business models under the 'E' series. Apart from these, the supreme quality widget manufacturer offers a wide range of models that serve the communication needs in efficient ways.
When it comes to the discussion of latest Nokia phones then the name of N95 8GB comes on a remarkable position. By providing 8GB of internal memory, this multimedia mobile phone allows the users to store handsome amount of music, video, image and other files into it. Its sophisticated entertainment features like embedded multi-format supported media player, 5 mega pixels camera, integrated flash and built-in GPS navigation have made this model extremely popular among millions of people.
Another name of the most popular latest Nokia phone is the Nokia 6300. One will face no problem while carrying this sleek designed handset. This handsome yet powerful model will thrill the users by its high-resolution display unit. The users will love to capture all their happy and funny moments with ease and at high quality through its 2 mega pixels camera.
Among the latest Nokia phones, the name of Nokia 7310 supernova also comes. This cool looking model enables the users to access the Internet at supreme speed which will be possible for its high-speed GPRS and EDGE technologies. One can communicate with his near-dear ones much smoothly by using multiple messaging features, including SMS, MMS, Email and Instant Messaging.
When it comes to the most desirable Nokia business models then among all the names, the name of Nokia E71 comes on the top. This model comes preloaded with almost all the high-end business features that are required to simplify modern business works. The users can type text easily through its QWERTY keyboard. Accessing email and browsing the web will be much easy through its high-speed GPRS and EDGE technologies along with high-speed email messaging feature. One will be able to establish smooth connectivity with other devices with the help of sophisticated connectivity features, including Bluetooth, USB and Wi-Fi.
So, from the above discussion of latest Nokia phones, now it can be concluded that these handsets will fulfill all kinds of needs and that's why would be perfect choices for every segment of mobile users.
Source: Nokia mobile phones – Built with perfect combination of style and performance
Nokia 5800 XpressMusic First Firmware Update
Nokia 5800 XpressMusic get the first firmware update and for all of you who has Nokia 5800 XpressMusic you can update the latest firmware version v20.0.0.12. The latest Nokia 5800 XpressMusic firmware add several improvement such as full device search, photo geotagging and improve you device performance. To update the firmware you can visit nokia software updater or you can visit HERE.
Five technology trends that will define 2009
We are nearing the end of the first quarter of 2009, and we think that based on what we’ve seen happen already this year, combined with some announcements of things to come, that we can start to make sense of what 2009 will look like when we look back on it. For instance, we think consumers will see a number of technological advancements in the devices they buy—the laptops, media players, gaming systems, and televisions. That’s always the case. However, we think there are a handful of trends that will dominate the consumer technology market, and we thought we’d take a look at five of them here. Let’s get started:
GPS Everything
It seems that mobile phones and GPS can’t be kept apart these days. With the release of Apple’s wildly successful iPhone 3G, GPS has become a standard feature on many of today’s advanced mobile devices.
While GPS used to be reserved for geeky standalone gadgets, like that of a Garmin or Tom Tom, being able to locate yourself wirelessly is now firmly in the realm of cell phones. And that’s just the start. Expect to see GPS penetrating a greater number of tech devices in 2009.
High Definition
2009 is the year that the United States will switch entirely over to digital television signals. High Definition imaging is poised to capture its biggest chunk yet of the TV and displays market.
The introduction of Blu-ray in the past few years has meant that many newer laptops, desktops and, of course, gaming consoles (PS3) now come equipped with Blu-ray readers and writers, at little to no cost above the average prices or such devices. With the huge HDTV sales of the 2008 holiday shopping season, expect prices to stay low and demand for HD programming to increase.
Fingerprint Security
Fingerprint Security
As more of our daily lives are stored digitally by some form of technology, digital security for our sensitive information is rapidly becoming an issue. Some new laptops and cell phones are equipped with a track pad capable of fingerprint recognition. This technology is quick and effective, and it can be scaled down for use on a variety of technologies. So as our digital privacy needs soar in 2009, look to built-in fingerprint scanning to help limit the risk.
Open Source
Open source software is nothing new. However, for years it has been useful only to those with technological savvy and a keen desire to seek such third-party programs out for use on their digital devices.
With the release of the G1 Google/T-Mobile phone and the popularity of Linux-based netbooks, expect Open Source software to boom in numbers and power during 2009, as creative computing becomes truly communal. Expect to see a lot of mapping tools, finance programs, local search applications and games created by people all over the world.
Ubiquitous Touch Screen
Buttons are so early-2000s! Touch-screen technology started to gain a real foothold in personal electronics devices over the last couple of years, with the advent of the iPhone and other touchy-feely devices. The Blackberry soon followed suit, releasing its own touch-screen model in late 2008.
Both models forgo the traditional arrangement of physical buttons, opting instead for simulated touch-screen buttons. This saves space, looks good and leaves open the option to add other functions.
Multi-finger touch recognition is more advanced, and in 2009, we can expect to see touch screens slowly but surely replace buttons and knobs on our laptops, cell phones, iPods and other devices.
Source: Five technology trends that will define 2009
GPS Everything
It seems that mobile phones and GPS can’t be kept apart these days. With the release of Apple’s wildly successful iPhone 3G, GPS has become a standard feature on many of today’s advanced mobile devices.
While GPS used to be reserved for geeky standalone gadgets, like that of a Garmin or Tom Tom, being able to locate yourself wirelessly is now firmly in the realm of cell phones. And that’s just the start. Expect to see GPS penetrating a greater number of tech devices in 2009.
High Definition
2009 is the year that the United States will switch entirely over to digital television signals. High Definition imaging is poised to capture its biggest chunk yet of the TV and displays market.
The introduction of Blu-ray in the past few years has meant that many newer laptops, desktops and, of course, gaming consoles (PS3) now come equipped with Blu-ray readers and writers, at little to no cost above the average prices or such devices. With the huge HDTV sales of the 2008 holiday shopping season, expect prices to stay low and demand for HD programming to increase.
Fingerprint Security
Fingerprint Security
As more of our daily lives are stored digitally by some form of technology, digital security for our sensitive information is rapidly becoming an issue. Some new laptops and cell phones are equipped with a track pad capable of fingerprint recognition. This technology is quick and effective, and it can be scaled down for use on a variety of technologies. So as our digital privacy needs soar in 2009, look to built-in fingerprint scanning to help limit the risk.
Open Source
Open source software is nothing new. However, for years it has been useful only to those with technological savvy and a keen desire to seek such third-party programs out for use on their digital devices.
With the release of the G1 Google/T-Mobile phone and the popularity of Linux-based netbooks, expect Open Source software to boom in numbers and power during 2009, as creative computing becomes truly communal. Expect to see a lot of mapping tools, finance programs, local search applications and games created by people all over the world.
Ubiquitous Touch Screen
Buttons are so early-2000s! Touch-screen technology started to gain a real foothold in personal electronics devices over the last couple of years, with the advent of the iPhone and other touchy-feely devices. The Blackberry soon followed suit, releasing its own touch-screen model in late 2008.
Both models forgo the traditional arrangement of physical buttons, opting instead for simulated touch-screen buttons. This saves space, looks good and leaves open the option to add other functions.
Multi-finger touch recognition is more advanced, and in 2009, we can expect to see touch screens slowly but surely replace buttons and knobs on our laptops, cell phones, iPods and other devices.
Source: Five technology trends that will define 2009
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Streaming media: Wireless home music, photo and video sharing
Many new devices allow you to wirelessly share your media around your home streaming music, video and photos from one machine to another.
From photos to music and video, much of the media that we use or create is going digital. That makes it more portable, easier to manipulate and to store, but for many people it has also meant that their record collection is now trapped on a computer. Few of us, however, want to watch television on our computers if we can get away without, and even fewer really want poor-quality computer speakers playing our favourite songs.
That’s where streaming comes in – this is the process of freeing your media, and in practice that means adding some sort of hard disk to your current music system. In some cases, you’ll simply be able to connect your computer to a Wi-Fi network and add some speakers. But with a little more planning you can use digital media to make your hi-fi and your television a lot more flexible.
For most people, music is much more likely to already be digital than TV – DVDs remain the main way of watching films, and although the BBC’s iPlayer has revolutionised catch-up television, it has yet to achieve the integration with television sets that the Corporation is known to be working on.
The important thing for music, therefore, is to make sure as much of your library as possible is on a single hard drive, and to decide how you want to access it. An old computer and an iPod, for instance, can become the perfect “media server” – you don’t need a monitor because the iPod can act as a remote control and browser for your music collection, but you will need a decent set of speakers, such as those made specifically for the purpose by companies such as Teufel or Altec Lansing.
Although there are many rather more expensive methods of integrating digital media into your hi-fi set up than those we detail here, recycling old kit and buying inexpensive add-ons really can set your current collection free, and mean you never have to get up to change the CD again.
Read the full article here: Streaming media - Wireless home music, photo and video sharing
From photos to music and video, much of the media that we use or create is going digital. That makes it more portable, easier to manipulate and to store, but for many people it has also meant that their record collection is now trapped on a computer. Few of us, however, want to watch television on our computers if we can get away without, and even fewer really want poor-quality computer speakers playing our favourite songs.
That’s where streaming comes in – this is the process of freeing your media, and in practice that means adding some sort of hard disk to your current music system. In some cases, you’ll simply be able to connect your computer to a Wi-Fi network and add some speakers. But with a little more planning you can use digital media to make your hi-fi and your television a lot more flexible.
For most people, music is much more likely to already be digital than TV – DVDs remain the main way of watching films, and although the BBC’s iPlayer has revolutionised catch-up television, it has yet to achieve the integration with television sets that the Corporation is known to be working on.
The important thing for music, therefore, is to make sure as much of your library as possible is on a single hard drive, and to decide how you want to access it. An old computer and an iPod, for instance, can become the perfect “media server” – you don’t need a monitor because the iPod can act as a remote control and browser for your music collection, but you will need a decent set of speakers, such as those made specifically for the purpose by companies such as Teufel or Altec Lansing.
Although there are many rather more expensive methods of integrating digital media into your hi-fi set up than those we detail here, recycling old kit and buying inexpensive add-ons really can set your current collection free, and mean you never have to get up to change the CD again.
Read the full article here: Streaming media - Wireless home music, photo and video sharing
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