Art Levedev Studio Optimus Maximus
Even before Russian designer Artemy Lebedev released the 113-key Optimus Maximus in 2007, the type machine hailed the keyboard as the best ever. The Optimus certainly has a price worthy of such a claim. Hype aside, the Optimus may not really be "a million keyboards in one," but make no mistake; it is a one-in-a-million board.
Within each of the board's key is a 48-x48-pixel OLED, giving you seemly endless language and character set configuration via the excellent, downloadable Optimus Configurator app. I configured the Optimus, for example, to display and perform designated functions depending on if Firefox, Internet Explorer Word, etc. was active. An integrated Sd slot (512MB card includd) saves these layout configurations to memory, but even the default settings are "ooh" and "ah" worthy. Pressing CAPS LOCK, for example, display each key as capped. Pressing NUM LOCK similarly toggles the numeric keypad key between displaying numbers and navigation icons.
The possibilities go on. Any language your OS supports, Optimus can, too. Prefer a Dvorak layout? Done. Fancy a Half-Life or Photoshop layout? Presto. Want to embed a JPED of your daughter into the Spacebar? I did it in second. I also configured a looping AVI (10fps max) of her sister in the ENTER key. I embedded a Gmail icon in another key to launch my account, designed a logo in Paint that I displayed on another key, and monitored my PC's free memory and CPU performance on two other keys.
For all its functionality (and there's a lot), the Optimus is oddly a poor choice for typing. Slick and far too stiff, the board mechanical micro-keyswitches consistenly produced a stream of irritating typos-even day after consisten use-that had me cursing under my breath. Additionally, the board is huge (1.5 x 21.14 x 6.8 inches [HxWxD]), so prepare to sacrifice desk space.
Still, through I can't imagine spending more on a keyboard than my last PC, the Optimus Maximus is truly the supreme choice for tweakers.
by Blaine Flamig
Specs: 20,000 hours OLED glow life; 160-degree viewing angle; SD card slot; two USB 2.0 ports; USB and DC power connections required; one-year warranty
source: Computer Power User October 2008.
September 10, 2008
Art Levedev Studio Optimus Maximus
September 09, 2008
Antec Signature 850
Antec Signature 850
Beneath its glossy black surface, the Antec Signature 850 PSU (model SG-850) is a powerhouse that promises high performance and reliability.
The SG-850 supports an 80mm fan with PWM (pulse width modulation), which controls the speed of the PSU'fan and makes it qun quietly. Despite its high wattage, the Signature 850 is 80 Plus-certified, making this PSu energy-efficient. Its cabling is also partially modular, with mesh sleeving on all the cables.
Being SLI-certified, the Signature 850 is equipped to handle dual GeForce 9800 GX2 graphics cards, though we used a single (yet massive) GeForce GTX 280 during our stress tests. Our other testing specs included a 2.4GHz AMD Phenom 8750 triple-core processor; two 1TB HDDs and an additional (and dinky) 40GB HD; 2GB of DDR2; and a DVD drive.
We loaded up our system by simultaenously running three instances of Prime95 (one for each core), looping 3DMark 06 (rather than 3D Mark Vantage, which will only loop three times), and playing a music CD- all continuously for five hours.
Although our well-ventilated Antec Twelve Hundred case helped, the Signature 850 didn't seem to have any trouble keeping up. Our test system wasn't grueling as it could have been, but the Signature 850's performance reassured us that it would be ready for future upgrades that would require heavier loads.
antec's Signature 850 was a sturdy PSU that din't let us down.
by Kris Glaser.
source: Computer Power User October 2008.
www.antec.com
Samsung Does Blu-ray HTB On The Cheap
Samsung Does Blu-ray HTB On The Cheap
If you've been sitting on the sidelines where a Blu-ray home-theter system is concerned due to cost, Samsung's new price-friendly HTB may get you int he game. At $799 and the 800-watt, 5.1-channel HT-BD2E blends features of Samsung's previous 7.1-channel HT-BD2S ($999) and HT-BD2T ($1,499). Beyond BonudView capability, the HT-BD2E's single-disc Blu-ray player does HDMI out (not in) and 1080p DVD upconversion and provides an Ethernet port for firmware updates. Negatives iclude a passwive subwoofer and no DTS-HD Master Audio Support, although you get an FM Tuner, two optical digital inputs, and universal remote.
Fanatec Porsche 911 Turbo Wheel
Fanatec Porsche 911 Turbo Wheel
A racing wheel that feels like the real thing
WHEN YOU SEE the Fanatec Porsche 911 Turbo Wheel, you might wonder if it were ripped out of a real Porsche. This licensed replica for Windows PCs and the PlayStation 3 both looks and feels the part, with solid construction and very precise control. But quality comes at a steep price: When you finish paying for this $349.95 gadget, you might feel like you've just walked out of a Porsche showroom.
The leather-wrapped wheel connects to your PC or PS3 wirelessly, using an included USB dongle. You can clamp the controler to a desk, mount it on your lap, or, if you're a true racing fanatic, screw it onto your replica racing cockpit. Two gearshifts-a sequential shifter and an H-pattern 6+1 shifter-are included.
Unfoortunately, the setup isn't completely wireless: You must plug the wheel into a wall outlet, as the force-feedback motors use to omuch juice for battery power.
The feel is fantastic, however, with an excellent force-feedback design replicating the resistance-and the vibrational feedback-you face when racing. THe feedback is so great that the wheel begs to be clamped to a table. The "wings" on the lap mount aren't quite as big as they should be to impart real stability.
The pedals don't feel as solid as the wheel, but they include a clutch in addition to gas and brake, and they can run off batteries for wireless operation. You can also use an included cable to power them from the wheel. -Denny Atkin
source: Computer Price September 2008.
www.fanatec.de
August 01, 2008
Stone Player
Striking in its simplicity, the $39.99 Samsung S2 Pebble music player looks like a rounded, polished stone-and a colorful one at that. Available in five colors, the 1GB device offers MP3, WMA, and OGG file playback and includes support for a mobile playlist. All controls are located on its back face, and a hidden LED along the bottom edge flashes in different colors and patterns to indicate your selected playback mode and EQ setting.
source: Computer Shopper August 2008.
www.samsung.com
July 12, 2008
Protrack, Digital Stereo Recorder for iPod
Alesis announces ProTrack, an handheld digital stereo recorder for iPod.
Features :
- Sleek industrial design incorporates iPod
- Integrated recording to iPod (Classic and 5th generation) and iPod nano (2nd or 3rd generation)
- Pro-grade connections: two combo XLR - 1/4-inch inputs, 1/8-inch stereo output
- Supplies 48V phantom power to inputs when wall-powered
- Records 16-Bit, 44.1kHz or 22kHz stereo
- Two built-in condenser microphones for detailed recording
- Built-in microphones in XY configuration for optimum stereo image
- Switchable limiter ensures overload-free recordings even in unpredictable aural situations
- AC power adapter included
- Four AAA batteries provide four to five hours of operation
- Tripod stand mount for placing into ideal recording conditions
ProTrack will be available on Q3 2008 with price TBA.
source: http://www.macmusic.org
Bootplug P2
Cramworks from Japan has launched the Bootplug 2, which is a 2GB USB memory stick that comes preloaded with Linux kernel 2.4 operating system.
The flash drive boots up in just 10 seconds and loads up the kernel, X Window System, LAN, PPP and VPN (PPTP and IPsec), Web browser, Mailer, OpenOffice.org, PDF viewer and a remote desktop client.
In addition, the drive also includes Flash player 9 and Real Player. It offers 1.7GB of storage capacity the remaining is used by Linux OS.
The Bootplug P2 is available in Japan only for 12,600Yen or $126.
www.zinkalo.com
DVR Pen Recorder
A Covert Camcorder Pen Camera DVR Records Hours of Video and Audio with Just a Click! It even Writes Too!
* One Touch Color Digital Recording
* Looks And Functions Like An Ordinary Pen
* Records up to 8 hours of Video And Audio
* Direct USB Connection To PC
* Over 2 hour battery life
This first mini DVR Camcorder Pen Recorder in the world which is both a camera and recorder in the shape of a Pen that actually writes.. Durable constructed pen with smooth writing with ink that can be changed with standard refills. Simply plug into a standard USB port to watch the video. No drivers or outside power source needed.
Perfect to take on your next business meeting or interview.
Specifications:
* Video Compression: AVI
* Video Format: 352*288
* Internal Memory: Yes
* Flash: 1GB
* Video File Size: >500kb
* USB Interface: USB2.0
* Per Min Recording Mode: Continuous recording unit memory is full or manually turned off
* Adaptor Type: USB adaptor charging cable
* Battery Type: Lithium-ion 180mAh
* Record Up to 8 hours
* Battery Use Time: About 2h
* Dimension: 150 x 15 x 15 mm
* Weight: 30g
Features:
* One button recording
* Compatible with Windows98/98SE/ME/2000/XP/ MAS OS / LINUX
* Internal memory 1GB
* Color video with voice lets you clearly see who’s there & hear what they say.
Includes:
* 1x Pen Recorder
* USB charger/transfer cord
Skype Mouse Phone
Skype Chat Phone Accessory in a stunning red color that works both as a standard 800 DPI Mouse and as a high quality VOIP phone with a unique sliding cover for easy transferring from mouse function to calling. It is a perfect add on if you are constantly using Skype for calling another computer or another phone, and with the backlit LCD Screen you will constantly be getting useful information such as contact details, time, and call duration, and all in any language that your Skype program is running under. Also featured are the large speaker for listening to music or voice and a smaller 20mW if you need more privacy. A great accessory to make chatting online that much easier, and available at great wholesale discounts direct from Chinavasion.
China Manufacturer Specification
* Display: Backlit LCD Screen
* 800 DPI Optical Sensor
* Standard 2 Mouse Button and center scrolling wheel
* Output of Speaker: 1.5W for Large Speaker 20mW for Small Speaker
* Languages: LCD will display any language that the Skype runs under
* USB: 1.1
* System: Windows 98/2000/XP/Vista
* Power Source: directly powered by USB
* Color: Red
* Dimension: Closed: 105x70x35mm (LxWxD) Open: 160x70x35mm (LxWxD)
* Manufacturer Ref.: 56PJDCC2GWHY
* Productcode Change From CVDYN-VP688
Other Features:
* Sliding Cover
* Handsfree Function
* Compatible with multiple VOIP platforms
* Independent sound chip to handle softphone VOIP voice quality
* Built in Mic
* Large 1.5W Speaker for high quality sound. Small 20mW Speaker for privacy
* Plays music from your computer on the speaker
* LCD displays contact details, time, and other information from the chat program
* Auto Detection or Manual Switch between Mouse and Phone
Accessories:
* CD with Driver to run Skype Mouse Program
* Manufacturer and Origin: China
www.chinavasion.com
Acer P5260i Wireless Projector
Acer has launched a new professional "video-projector", the P5260i, that's designed to offer cable-free projection.
The P5260i features wireless technology based on 802.11b/g protocols that supports 1080i/720p HD video projection.
The HD streaming video projection supports a range of formats without encryption including MPEG1, MPEG2, MPEG4, WMV9, AVI, DivX, XviD, ASF and VOB.
Specs include a XGA 1024 x 768 resolution, DLP technology, 2700 ANSI Lumens brightness and a 2000:1 contrast ratio with inputs including D-Sub, DVI-D and HDMI.
Ease of use, good lamp life, low noise and fab colours are all promised as per the usual blurb plus some PowerPoint friendly business-related features that will no doubt get execs excited.
And for those whose presentations don't go as well as hoped, the included Acer "InstantPack" technology means if the user is in a hurry to leave, the power cord can be unplugged right after the projector is turned off, without any resulting damage.
www.pocket-lint.co.uk
iLogic Sound Hat
There’s a party in your head, and only you’re invited!
I’ve always thought to myself “What if my hat could play music?”.
Well, not really. But if I did this would be exactly the kind of thing I’d be looking for. It’s the Sound Hat from iLogic.
It’s built for those that think they’re too good to wear don’t like the cold plasticy feel of earphones nestling in their ears. Simply plug in your music player of choice via the 3.5mm jack and the hat will play your tunes courtesy of speakers nestled within. It’s a mini party in your head.
It’s quite a neat idea because it means others nearby won’t hear the crackling of your music when on the bus or train as the sound is muffled enough to prevent anyone else from hearing it thanks to the polyester material surrounding it.
Not sure about a couple of things though.
First of all it means having to mess up your beautifully coiffuered do to listen to music.
Secondly I can imagine many people forgetting to take the speakers out before they wash it, doh.
And another thing. What if it’s summer? Would you run the risk of riducle to be had form wearing a wooly hat in the scorching weather?
Despite all that it’s still quite a neat idea.
source: http://www.stuffwelike.com
July 10, 2008
Optoma Pico Handheld Projector
LAS VEGAS, NV (June 18, 2008) – Optoma, a leading manufacturer of award-winning digital projection and display devices, introduces the first Pico projector based on the DLP Pico chipset. Smaller than most smart phones, this new micro-portable projector fits in your palm and is the ideal companion to ultra-portable media devices such as iPods®, PDA's, smart phones and digital cameras.
When connected to an ultra-mobile device, the four-ounce Optoma Pico Projector allows users to share photos and videos, and enjoy a far better visual experience with an image that is up to 100 times larger than the small screen of the source device.
"The Pico Projector is the next step in sharing visual media for today's ultra-mobile consumers. Fitting in your shirt pocket, the Pico Projector can display pictures, videos or any content from a mobile media player or smart phone" says Jon Grodem, director of Product Management for Optoma. "Optoma's Pico breaks free from the limitations of the 2 or 3 inch displays found on today's mobile devices. This category defining projector creates a new benchmark for sharing content-on-the-go."
Optoma's Pico Projector utilizes the latest LED technology resulting in a colorful and vivid image. The small and powerful unit is based upon DLP technology assuring the highest possible contrast.
"The handheld Pico projector represents the latest advancement in the mobile device display industry. We view the Pico projector as a completely new and exciting market – one which dramatically expands the reach and potential of projection products into new end user applications," says Dr. William Coggshall, founder and president of Pacific Media Associates.
The product will be first shown at Texas Instrument's InfoComm 2008 booth C909 and will be available in limited distribution in Europe and Asia in late 2008, with a worldwide launch in 2009.
www.optoma.com
May 27, 2008
UPS Review: Power Tree IG-S1250P
Power Tree IG-S1250P
Economic Power Backup for SOHO
UPS (Uninterrupable Power Supply) is a must if the electricity in your house is not stable.
There's new player on UPS products with lower prices. One of them is Power Tree IG-S1250P.
As seen on the series, IG-S1250P have 1250VA joule capacity with 960watt weight capacity. It can be used for 2 PCs on SOHO.
The UPS only have 3 output outlets. It can protects power, phone connection, modem, and faximile from electricity shocks.
It should be charged for 12 hours on initial use and 5 hours on daily uses.
We have tested this UPS on a Pentium 4 3,6GHz PC with a 17" LCD Display. The UPS can make the CPU and LCD display stay awake for 16 minutes. Not bad for 90USD UPS.
SPECIFICATION
Power Tree IG-S1250P
System: Simulated Sine Wave
Power Capacity: 1250VA
Capacity (Joule): 960watt
AC input range: 140-275volt
Power Outlets: 3 outputs
PC Controllable: YES
Modem Protection: YES
LAN Protection: NO
Battery Life: 16 minutes
Battery Recharge: 5 hours
Weight: 13.3 kgs
Package: Manual Book, Driver CD, Data Cabel (COM), Phone Cable (RJ11)
Guarantee: 3 years
Website: www.power-tree.com
Price: 90USD
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