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Intellivision: a Game Console Far Ahead of Its Time

2011-08-06T22:17:00.001+07:00

The Intellivision was a revolutionary video game console developed and released by Mattel (the company probably best known for Barbie dolls, Hot Wheels and Matchbox cars) in 1979. It was the first 16 bit game console ever released and introduced a lot of new concepts and technologies: innovative game controllers, superior graphics and sound, game downloads, home computer extensions, a voice synthesis device and a synthesizer keyboard for example.

The CPU used in the Intellivision was a General Instruments CP1610, a general purpose microprocessor capable of supporting 16-bit addresses and 10-bit instructions. The US release used a CPU clock of 894,886.25 Hz while the european release used a 1 Mhz clock, due to the different NTSC / PAL specs, which means that games were running up to 10% faster on european consoles than on their US counterparts!

The CP1610 featured eight 16-bit registers - using a 16 bit CPU in a video game console was quite exceptional indeed. It had 1.2 kb of RAM (including 512 byte video memory) and 7 kb ROM (which included the "Executive ROM" - some kind of a mini-OS - and the "Graphics ROM" which included often used sprites for example). It's graphics performance was outstanding for the late 1970's, allowing a 160 x 196 pixel display using a 16 color palette (all colors could be used simultaneously), plus eight hardware supported sprites offering collision detection, mirroring and streching.

The game controllers were quite different too, as they featured a "disc" (somewhat similar to the Apple iPod clickwheel) instead of a joystick as well as a twelve-button numeric keypad. The disc was capable of 16 direction detection and games usually shipped with "overlay cards" that could be inserted into the controllers (in front of the numeric keypad - switching games required inserting a new cartridge AND flipping the overlay cards).

In 1980 the Intellivision became available in the entire US for US$299, the console was the first to pose a serious threat to Atari's dominance (Atari was the number one video game console producer back then). Mattel sold 175,000 consoles in 1980, with 19 availalble games. After Mattel realized that the game market offered good revenues, they launched their own software development group which became known as the "Blue Sky Rangers".

In 1981, Mattel launched a service that allowed to download games via cable TV. In 1982, Mattel sold 2 million consoles, more and more companies started developing software titles for the Intellivision.

The "Keyboard Component" should transform the console into a home computer, it was planned to include a MOS 6502 CPU (the one used by the C64 later on), 64K RAM and a built-in cassette tape drive. But during the process of developement many reliability problems occurred and the hardware was far too expensive. After repeated delays the Keyboard Component project was officially cancelled in 1982. Apparently about 4000 Keyboard Components had been shipped to selected customers for testing purposes, they are extremely rare today.

As Mattel managers had been aware of the Keyboard Component problems for a long time, they had launched a secondary project in mid 1981 that could replace the component in case of a complete failure. It was released as Entertainment Computer System (ECS), it featured a keyboard with a cassette recorder interface and included 2k of additional RAM. It lacked the originally planned 6502 CPU and the 64K RAM extension, but it was functionalm cost effective and was finally able to turn the Intellivison into a home computer.

Shortly after, Mattel introduced a 49-key Music Synthesizer keyboard which could turn the Intellivision/ECS combo into a multi-voice synthesizer. Unfortunately, the ECS received very little further marketing push and further hardware and software developments for the ECS were cancelled.

Intellivision was also the first game console to provide real-time human and robot voices during game play. The IntelliVoice module, which was required for using this feature, used an SP0256 Orator "voice chip" developed jointly by Mattel and General Instrument. But the IntelliVoice didn't sell as well as expected, and only a few games supporting it were ever released.

In 1983 Mattel also introduced the Intellivision II (which only introduced a revamped case) and the System Changer module (which allowed to play Atari 2600).

In 1983 and 1984 the video game market crashed. The new home computer systems became more and more popular and interest in classic game consoles vanished. Furthermore there was now a large number of video game consoles available, further subdividing the market. In 1983 Mattel Electronics posted a $300 million loss, in early 1984 the division was closed.

A liquidator purchased all rights, hardware and software sales continued until most of the inventory had been sold. Later on, Mattel Marketing executive Terry Valeski created INTV Corp. which sold the remaining stock via retail and mail order. They then introduced the INTV III, which was nothing but an Intellivison inside a new case, and continued developing a few games. The console was discontinued in 1991. More than 6 million Intellivision consoles were sold during 12 years, and a total of 125 games were available.

Keith Robinson, a former Mattel programmer, finally purchased the software rights, founded Intellivision Productions and released Intellivison emulators including the classic Intellivision games available for MacOS, Windows and modern-day consoles.

When is PlayStation 3 Being Released?

2011-08-06T22:09:00.001+07:00

Video game consoles are on the loose. Since the Magnavox Odyssey era, video gaming systems are evolving to become one of the most powerful machines in the entertainment industry that ever existed. From the simple animation and mono background game music during the Atari years, video game consoles nowadays will make you feel that you are the one fighting monsters, racing with other cars, or shooting the ball to the hoop right in front of your opponent because of advanced three-dimensional animation technology, thanks to game software developers.

Thus, do not be surprised if video game consoles are now on the transition to the so-called "seventh generation". Despite of the video game crash in 1977 wherein many game manufacturers abandoned the game console manufacturing industry due to unpopularity, ga ming firms who have left in the battlefield tried to win the hearts of the gaming public, especially the younger generation, by producing high-quality games compatible to their consoles. And with the success of these gaming firms, video game consoles stand to its popularity among gamers of varying age groups, which eventually paved the way to the birth of the seventh generation of video game consoles.

The seventh generation began by the introduction of Microsoft's Xbox 360 in November 2005, following the huge success of its predecessor, the Xbox. Since then, rival game console manufacturers began producing new genres of video game consoles, each one having unique characteristic from its rival consoles or predecessors alike. Thus, the generation is branded to be a "console war" in the history of interactive entertainment.

Following the success of Sony Corporation's PlayStation 1 and 2, they are determined to maintain their dominance in the game console market. Thus, in May 16, 2005 at the E3 Conference, Japan's leading electronic company, under its computer entertainment subsidiary, formally unveiled to the public the latest member of the PlayStation 3 series€the PlayStation 3 (PS3). It is expected to compete with its two rival game consoles, which are the Nintendo's Wii and the Xbox 360.

PlayStation 3 is scheduled to be released on the following launch dates:

€ The first release is scheduled in November 11, 2006 at Japan.

€ Six days after the Japan debut, PS3's launch date in Canada and Un ited States would be on November 17 of the same year.

€ On the other hand, the launch date of PS3 on Australasia and Europe is scheduled to be on March 2007, with the definite date pending on the decision of Sony Corporation.

On these launch dates, Sony has plans of releasing two different configurations for the PlayStation 3. The first one is known as the "premium version", where the video game console will come with a 60 GB internal hard drive with multiple flash memory card readers and Wi-Fi or wireless internet connectivity. The other is known as the "alternate configuration" in which the video game console will come in lower internal hard drive (20 GB to be exact) and without Wi-Fi connectivity and memory card reader features, though the hard drive of the alternate configuration can be upgraded and memory card sup port can be added through the use of adapters.

Despite of the different launch dates of PlayStation 3, it is expected to be a hit for countries where it would be initially released. Watch out for the launch dates mentioned above and experience the interactive entertainment courtesy of PlayStation 3.
Video game consoles are on the loose. Since the Magnavox Odyssey era, video gaming systems are evolving to become one of the most powerful machines in the entertainment industry that ever existed. From the simple animation and mono background game music during the Atari years, video game consoles nowadays will make you feel that you are the one fighting monsters, racing with other cars, or shooting the ball to the hoop right in front of your opponent because of advanced three-dimensional animation technology, thanks to game software developers.

Thus, do not be surprised if video game consoles are now on the transition to the so-called "seventh generation". Despite of the video game crash in 1977 wherein many game manufacturers abandoned the game console manufacturing industry due to unpopularity, gaming firms who have left in the battlefield tried to win the hearts of the gaming public, especially the younger generation, by producing high-quality games compatible to their consoles. And with the success of these gaming firms, video game consoles stand to its popularity among gamers of varying age groups, which eventually paved the way to the birth of the seventh generation of video game consoles.

The seventh generation began by the introduction of Microsoft's Xbox 360 in November 2005, following the h uge success of its predecessor, the Xbox. Since then, rival game console manufacturers began producing new genres of video game consoles, each one having unique characteristic from its rival consoles or predecessors alike. Thus, the generation is branded to be a "console war" in the history of interactive entertainment.

Following the success of Sony Corporation's PlayStation 1 and 2, they are determined to maintain their dominance in the game console market. Thus, in May 16, 2005 at the E3 Conference, Japan's leading electronic company, under its computer entertainment subsidiary, formally unveiled to the public the latest member of the PlayStation 3 series€the PlayStation 3 (PS3). It is expected to compete with its two rival game consoles, which are the Nintendo's Wii and the Xbox 360.

PlayStation 3 is scheduled to be released on the following launch dates:

€ The first release is scheduled in November 11, 2006 at Japan.

€ Six days after the Japan debut, PS3's launch date in Canada and United States would be on November 17 of the same year.

€ On the other hand, the launch date of PS3 on Australasia and Europe is scheduled to be on March 2007, with the definite date pending on the decision of Sony Corporation.

On these launch dates, Sony has plans of releasing two different configurations for the PlayStation 3. The first one is known as the "premium version", where the video game console will come with a 60 GB internal hard drive with multiple flash memory card readers and Wi-Fi or wireless internet connectivity. The other is known as the "alternate configuration" in which the video game console will come in lower internal hard drive (20 GB to be exact) and without Wi-Fi connectivity and memory card reader features, though the hard drive of the alternate configuration can be upgraded and memory card support can be added through the use of adapters.

Despite of the different launch dates of PlayStation 3, it is expected to be a hit for countries where it would be initially released. Watch out for the launch dates mentioned above and experience the interactive entertainment courtesy of PlayStation 3.

PlayStation 3 160 GB

2011-05-25T21:39:00.001+07:00

PlayStation 3 160 GB

Product Description

With the PlayStation 3 160GB system, you get free PlayStation Network membership, built-in Wi-Fi and 160GB of hard disk drive storage for games, music, videos and photos. And every PS3 system comes with a built-in Blu-ray player to give you pristine picture quality and the best high-definition viewing experience available. Whether it’s gaming, Blu-ray movies, music or online services, experience it all with the PlayStation 3 system.

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Melissa & Doug Stacking Train

2011-05-25T21:30:00.000+07:00

Melissa & Doug Stacking Train

Product Details

Product Dimensions: 18 x 4 x 6 inches ; 2.5 pounds
Shipping Weight: 2.4 pounds
Shipping: This item is also available for shipping to select countries outside the U.S.
ASIN: B0000658L5
Item model number: 572
Our recommended age: 24 months - 5 years
Manufacturer recommended age: 24 months - 5 years
Batteries: 572 Lithium ion batteries required.

Product Description

From the Manufacturer

The solidly built engine and multicolored freight cars have sturdy pegs for linking the cars and stacking the cargo blocks. Includes 15 interchangeable pieces.

Product Description

This brightly-colored wooden train is over 17" long and includes 15 interchangeable pieces to get any child's imagination rolling. The solidly-built engine and multicolored freight cars have sturdy pegs for linking the cars and stacking the "cargo" blocks. Get on board for a high-quality, value-packed adventure.

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Self-Reliance [Hardcover]

2011-05-25T21:20:00.000+07:00

Self-Reliance [Hardcover]

Product Details

Hardcover: 88 pages
Publisher: The Domino Project; Unabridged edition (May 25, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1936719061
ISBN-13: 978-1936719068
Product Dimensions: 7.2 x 5.3 x 0.7 inches
Shipping Weight: 7.2 ounces

Product Description

Redefining the classic essay, this modern edition of Ralph Waldo Emerson’s most famous work, Self-Reliance, includes self-reflections from both historical and contemporary luminaries. With quotes from the likes of Henry Ford and Helen Keller to modern-day thought leaders like Jesse Dylan, Steve Pressfield, and Milton Glaser, we're reminded of the relevance of Emerson’s powerful words today. Emerson’s words are timeless. Persuasive and convincing, he challenges readers to define their own sense of accomplishment and asks them to measure themselves against their own standards, not those of society. This famous orator has utter faith in individualism and doesn’t invoke beyond what is humanly possible, he just believes deeply that each of us is capable of greatness. He asks us to define that greatness for ourselves and to be true to ourselves. At times harsh, at times comforting, Emerson’s words guide the reader to challenge their own beliefs and sense of self. This modern edition of Self-Reliance is ideal for graduates or those who are in the midst of a career or lifestyle change. Emerson's sage guidance wrapped in modern-day reflections is a great reminder about the potential within us all and that life is what you make of it.

The Dogs of Rome: A Commissario Alec Blume Novel [Paperback]

2011-05-25T16:56:00.002+07:00

The Dogs of Rome: A Commissario Alec Blume Novel [Paperback]

Product Details

Paperback: 400 pages
Publisher: Bloomsbury USA; Reprint edition (April 26, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1608190544
ISBN-13: 978-1608190546
Product Dimensions: 8.2 x 5.5 x 1.4 inches
Shipping Weight: 13.6 ounces

Editorial Reviews

From Publishers Weekly

Fitzgerald's impressively plotted debut, the first in a projected contemporary crime series, introduces police chief commissioner Alec Blume, an American expatriate who's been living in Rome for the last 22 years. Since losing both his parents—art historians who were shot and killed during a bank robbery on Via Cristoforo Colombo—as a teenager, Blume has been a loner of sorts, the proverbial outsider. When someone brutally murders Arturo Clemente, a prominent politician's husband and an animal rights activist who recently exposed a dog-fighting ring, in Clemente's apartment, the flawed but endearing Blume uses his unique perspective to negotiate his way through a labyrinthine minefield that includes crooked cops, unscrupulous politicians, and an ancient city whose very history is steeped in the corruption associated with organized crime. Those who like gritty crime thrillers with a European flair will be well rewarded. (Mar.)
Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.

From Booklist

The appearance of a new police series set in Italy is guaranteed to whet the thirst of international crime-fiction fans, especially when a few sips evoke that heady Italian brew that comes from the smooth blending of a corrupt bureaucracy and a flawed, world-weary hero. Fitzgerald mixes the ingredients skillfully, adding a few flavors of his own. Alec Blume is an American, Seattle born, but he has spent most of his life in Rome and is now a commissario in the Italian state police, though his heritage labels him as an outsider. His ambiguous status plays a role in what appears to be a classic Italian “political” murder—the killing of an animal-rights activist whose wife is an important politician and whose mistress has ties to the Mob. The plot unwinds with some genuine surprises, though not of the simplistic whodunit variety, but the focus here is on character: Blume, of course, but also his colleagues, who are casually comfortable with corruption, as well as the wife, the mistress, and the killer. This promising debut is reminiscent of early Michael Dibdin, and that is more than enough to put Fitzgerald’s series on your radar. --Bill Ott --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.

Heart of the Witch [Mass Market Paperback]

2011-05-25T16:52:00.000+07:00

Heart of the Witch [Mass Market Paperback]

Product Details

Mass Market Paperback: 290 pages
Publisher: Love Spell; Original edition (December 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 9780505528261
ISBN-13: 978-0505528261
ASIN: 0505528266
Product Dimensions: 6.9 x 5 x 0.8 inches
Shipping Weight: 4.8 ounces

Editorial Reviews

Hearts: 4.25 / 5 Review:
Ravyn Skyler narrowly escapes death at the hands of a serial killer and now she must find him before he can kill again. Nick Lassiter is a private detective with issues and teaming up with Ravyn will be just the beginning of the troubles that now comes their way. Magic, mayhem and heart rendering emotions are brewing into something both Nick and Ravyn have no control over; all the while dark magic and evil minds are plotting to destroy them. Can they stop death before death stops them?
Alicia Dean has created an edgy tale with lost souls, vengeful enemies, and a magical journey in Heart of the Witch. Nick and Ravyn will touch your heart, as each must overcome a difficult past before a future can be found for them. The unfolding plot will keep you entrenched within a fascinating world of witchcraft, both good and bad, and the dark mind of a killer will send chills down your spine. Heart of the Witch is a gripping read of life, death and magical possibilities with memorable characters and a great climatic ending. --Night Owl Romance

Product Description

A Paranormal Romantic Suspense

More Guns, Less Crime: Understanding Crime and Gun Control Laws, Third Edition (Studies in Law and Economics) [Paperback]

2011-05-25T16:45:00.000+07:00

More Guns, Less Crime: Understanding Crime and Gun Control Laws, Third Edition (Studies in Law and Economics) [Paperback]

Product Details

Paperback: 472 pages
Publisher: University Of Chicago Press; 3 edition (May 24, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 9780226493664
ISBN-13: 978-0226493664
ASIN: 0226493660
Product Dimensions: 8.9 x 5.9 x 1.1 inches
Shipping Weight: 1.3 pounds

Editorial Reviews

Review

“A compelling book with enough hard evidence that even politicians may have to stop and pay attention. More Guns, Less Crime is an exhaustive analysis of the effect of gun possession on crime rates. . . . Mr. Lott’s book—and the factual arsenals of other pro-gun advocates—are helping to redefine the argument over guns and gun control.”—James Bovard, Wall Street Journal

(James Bovard Wall Street Journal )

“John Lott’s More Guns, Less Crime revives the wisdom of the past by using the latest tools of social science. By constructing careful statistical models and deploying a wealth of crime data he shows that laws permitting the carrying of concealed weapons actually lead to a drop in crime in the jurisdictions that enact them. . . . By providing strong empirical evidence that yet another liberal policy is a cause of the very evil it purports to cure, he has permanently changed the terms of debate on gun control. . . . Lott’s book could hardly be more timely. . . . Lott’s work is a model of the meticulous application of economics and statistics to law and policy.”—John O. McGinnis, National Review

(John O. McGinnis National Review )

Product Description

On its initial publication in 1998, John R. Lott’s More Guns, Less Crime drew both lavish praise and heated criticism. More than a decade later, it continues to play a key role in ongoing arguments over gun-control laws: despite all the attacks by gun-control advocates, no one has ever been able to refute Lott’s simple, startling conclusion that more guns mean less crime. Relying on the most rigorously comprehensive data analysis ever conducted on crime statistics and right-to-carry laws, the book directly challenges common perceptions about the relationship of guns, crime, and violence. For this third edition, Lott draws on an additional ten years of data—including provocative analysis of the effects of gun bans in Chicago and Washington, D.C—that brings the book fully up to date and further bolsters its central contention.

Lady Gaga - Born This Way

2011-05-25T16:29:00.000+07:00

MP3 Download Lady Gaga - Born This Way (Single)

Kindle 3G, Free 3G + Wi-Fi, 3G Works Globally, Graphite, 6" Display with New E Ink Pearl Technology

2011-05-25T15:31:00.011+07:00

Kindle is our #1 bestseller and has the most 5-star reviews of any product on Amazon.
Includes Free 3G Wireless: No monthly payments, no annual contracts. Download books anywhere, anytime.

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