Gadgetophilia

10 things that haunt apple ipad

noreply@blogger.com (GRT) — Sat, 20 Feb 2010 19:41:00 +0000

And this is according to gadgetophilia. Whilst the dust settles on Apple's recently announced iPad, it seems the hype has died down and everyone has an opinion on Apple's latest creation. In short, there is nothing that deserved the hype and the device simply sucks if said politely. Here are some reasons why this device fails:
1. No MultitaskingDo you know that if you concentrate on only one thing at a time, you can do that more efficiently than otherwise. Apple has come out with its own way to teach us that old proverb. No multitasking on iPad. Come on Apple! We want to listen to music when browsing the net or we want to download some files while we are watching a video. Earlier I said that we have little or no use of multitasking on a mobile phone due to its limited screen size but this is certainly not true for a device that is trying to replace a full fledged laptop or netbook.
2. Uncomfortable KeyboardThis was quite obvious that the iPad would have a virtual keyboard because there is no space for an actual hardware keyboard. And those who have used virtual keyboard, know that typing even an e-mail on it may be a headache and if you are a blogger or just a professional who have to type for a few hours, this is simply not the device for you. From the pictures available on the net, if you thought that you can just put the device on the table and type on the virtual keyboard like a normal keyboard, soon you'll find it impossible as the device's back is not perfectly flat and it kind of wobbles when you put it on a flat surface. This makes the virtual keyboard more difficult to use. However, you can connect a Bluetooth keyboard to the device and continue typing comfortably but then I have to say that you can also add two more wheels to your existing two wheeler to ride it like a car!
3. No WebCamYesterday I posted that the device should at least have an WebCam that will allow us to conduct video chat over a high speed internet connection. But Apple, with their infinite wisdom has decided that they can allow VoIP calls over 3G. We are very very pleased that you have given us your kind privilege to use the service. Oh! Apple is so generous! A cheap $400 Asus Eee PC Netbook can do VoIP or Video Chat through its WebCam but those devices are cheap anyway and Apple is obviously the synonym of glamor.
4. No Flash SupportEven if the standard smartphones have the flash support built-in their browsers nowadays, neither iPhone nor the iPod has the Flash support. And now, iPad also comes without the Flash support. The lack of Flash support in those tiny display browsers were pardonable but in a device that is going to be competing with the full fledged netbooks/laptops, this is going mean a deal breaker for many. Even the casual internet users won't forgive those gaping holes in the webpage which were supposed to be making the website more colorful. And also, forget about streaming video on webpage!
5. Ugly Adapters
You need to connect any device to the iPad? You just need to have the adapter for that device. Oh! We are so glad that we can at least connect our devices to it! Thank you Apple for your generosity to us. History will remember this.
6. Go to Apple Store for AppsiPad can only run apps from the Apple App Store. No other Apps shall be entertained. Period.
7. No HDMI
Want to watch those nice HD Videos in your big HDTV screen when your iPad screen seems too small? No there is no HDMI to view the HD videos you've just downloaded from iTunes. And it is a sin that you thought the Apple iPad would connect to some Samsung HDTV. You shouldn't expect that Apple will allow follow any standard interface. They'll rather create an interface of their own!
8. Battery
We carry a spare wheel with our car. The Car can go flat. I will then replace that with my spare wheel. But forget this simple things with Apple. Touch their battery and void the warranty. They list that the battery life will last for 10 hours but I doubt if it will run for any longer than six hours. This is too low especially if we keep in mind that some netbooks(=computers) are now able to reach the 10 hour mark.
9. MicroSIM
Did anyone know that such term existed before Apple declared it? Well, I guess not. The device is supposed to be unlocked and you can use any carrier with it but currently, the SIM is only available from AT&T. Therefore, don't expect to run it on any cheap T-Mobile plans because they don't have the SIM. Do you know any other carrier that uses this SIM? The answer is apparently, Ahem, No.
10. Too Big Bezel
Don't you also think that the Bezel is too big to be called a decent one?

The other dimension of ipad

noreply@blogger.com (GRT) — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 18:48:00 +0000

you all might have heard of the latest release of ipad by Apple this comes with it has got all features that are outstanding from playing music to browsing the net but did you ever wonder about the inside of a ipad here i give you some interesting insights into what ipad is made of :

The iPad is a beast of a machine, so here's a rundown of what makes up Apple's latest and greatest.

CPU: Apple's custom 1GHz A4 SOC, manufactured by Samsung. And we can tell you, it's blazingly fast.
Display: 9.7-inch, 1024 x 786 (132 PPI), LED backlit IPS with capacitive touch and oleophobic coating.
Storage: The iPad will come in 16GB, 32GB, and 64GB variations.
RAM: No word on this from Apple (just like with the iPhone and iPod touch). We assume it's more than the iPhone 3GS's 256MB, but we won't know for sure till we see a full breakdown.
Wireless: The devices comes standard with 802.11a/b/g/n WiFi and Bluetooth 2.1. You can also purchase a version which has 3G connectivity (UMTS / HSDPA 850, 1900, 2100MHz and GSM / EDGE 850, 900, 1800, 1900MHz). Sorry everyone, AT&T only here in the US -- and if you're thinking about using your iPhone SIM, think again. The iPad uses new micro SIMs.
Other sensors: The iPad has a digital compass, there's AGPS on-board in the 3G version, and both versions have an accelerometer and ambient light sensor.
Software:The iPad is running a modified version of the iPhone OS (3.2 at this point), which has some new user interface additions (and allows apps to be coded for that bigger screen)
Ports / input / output: Headphone jack, 30-pin dock connector, built-in microphone, built-in speaker.
Battery life: Apple claims "up to" 10 hours web surfing on WiFi, listening to music, or watching video, and over a month on standby.
Dimensions: height: 9.56-inches, width: 7.47-inches, depth: 0.5-inches, weight: 1.5 pounds (1.6 for the 3G model)

ipad accesories:
It is rumored that apple has come out with some cool ipad accesories which i had jotted down below

iPad Keyboard Dock

The Keyboard Dock combines a dock for charging your iPad with a full-size keyboard. The dock has a rear 30-pin connector, which lets you connect to an electrical outlet using the USB Power Adapter, sync to your computer, and use accessories like the Camera Connection Kit. An audio jack lets you connect to a stereo or powered speakers.

iPad Case

The iPad Case not only protects the iPad, it can be used in various positions. So it’s easy to type, look at photos and slideshows, or watch movies.

iPad Dock

The iPad Dock lets you dock and charge iPad. The rear 30-pin connector lets you connect the iPad Dock to an electrical outlet using the USB Power Adapter, sync to your computer, and use accessories like the Camera Connection Kit. An audio jack lets you connect to a stereo or powered speakers.

iPad Camera Connection Kit

The Camera Connection Kit gives you two ways to import photos and videos from a digital camera. The Camera Connector lets you import your photos and videos to iPad using the camera’s USB cable. Or you can use the SD Card Reader to import photos and videos directly from the camera’s SD card.

iPad 10W USB Power Adapter

The 10W USB Power Adapter lets you charge your iPad directly through an electrical outlet. And the 6-foot-long power cable allows you to charge it from an even greater distance.

Notion Ink Tablet

noreply@blogger.com (GRT) — Wed, 06 Jan 2010 18:05:00 +0000

While the world waits breathlessly for the Apple tablet, or the iSlate, Bangalore based Notion Ink has launched Adam—the world’s first 10.1-inch tablet with Pixel Qi display. Pixel Qi is a display made from standard LCD material,
but only uses half the power of a normal LCD.
It also has an e-paper mode usually seen on e-Book Readers. This tablet runs on Android and is powered by Nvidia’s Tegra processor. The Notion Ink is expected to start shipping by June 2010 for $325.

SilverPac Evolution 5500

noreply@blogger.com (GRT) — Wed, 06 Jan 2010 17:00:00 +0000

The Evolution 500 is a gorgeous universal remote that can control any number of devices and also access content from your desktop computer. Powered entirely by Windows 7, it uses Microsoft’s SidesShow technology that lets you control your PC content via small widgets, or mini programs, and syncs your digital library via Windows Media Center.

4.3 inch touch-color LCD display with a resolution of 480 x 272
ARM9 processor
1GB flash
256MB SDRAM
Built-in speaker and microphone
3-axis motion sensor
Ambient light sensor
Capacitive buttons
Windows Embedded CE 6.0 R2
Microsoft Media Center support
Support for 100 devices
Activity and learning function
Rechargeable 3760 mAh battery
Firmware upgrade and rechargeable from mini-USB
802.11 b/g Wi-Fi
Z-Wave
Photo Sync from live.com

Google nexus gets ready to shake up iphone

noreply@blogger.com (GRT) — Tue, 05 Jan 2010 03:10:00 +0000

    GOOGLE sure does love shaking up the system. Remember the original Google search page? It made news because your search results popped up fast and weren't cluttered with ads. Remember when Google went public? It made news because the founders auctioned off shares to the public. Remember when Gmail came out? It made news because it offered 1,000 times the free storage space of competitors like Hotmail and Yahoo.
    And now Google wants to shake up the way we buy cell phones—by letting you shop for the phone and the service independently, on a new Google Web site (Google .com/ phone).
    To introduce this phone store, on Tuesday, Google took the wraps off what may be the worst-kept secret on the Internet: a brandnew cell phone, designed by Google and made by HTC, called the Nexus One. It's pretty sweet, it advances the state of the art, and it's a welcome addition to the catalog of great app phones like the iPhone, Palm Pre and Motorola Droid.
    But the truth is, the Google news this week isn't quite as earthshaking as Google seems to think it is.
    First, the new phone. It's almost exactly the size and shape of the iPhone. Like most HTC phones, it's bland-looking. But it's so thin and rounded, it feels terrific in your hand.
    It's loaded with gleaming, attractive features. It's hard to choose which is more gratifying: the speed—instant, smooth response when you're opening programs and scrolling—or the huge, 3.7-inch touch screen, which has much finer resolution than the iPhone (480 by 800 pixels, versus 320 by 480).
    There's Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, like an iPhone, but also a removable one-day battery and a camera with a LED flash, autofocus and picture settings, although the photos themselves are roughly on par with the iPhone's.
    The Nexus has no physical keyboard—only an on-screen keyboard, with a handy suggestion feature that I actually prefer to the iPhone's.
    Radically enough, you can also dictate anywhere you can type. The transcriptions aren't what you'd call miraculous—accuracy is maybe 90 percent—but if you have simple messages, speak clearly and remember to pronounce your punctuation, this "experimental" feature is often much faster than typing.
    As you'd guess, the Nexus uses Google's own Android operating system, so it's very similar to, for example, the Motorola Droid phone.
    You get an impressive, free, turn-by-turn GPS navigation program, and soon you'll be able to buy a bedside dock that automatically turns the Nexus into a terrific alarm clock/weather/music station.
    There's better integration all around: You can upload pictures and videos straight to YouTube, Picasa, Facebook and so on, for example, and you can tap a person's name and choose how you want to initiate contact (email, phone, text message). And you have five "home screens" to fill with the icons of your apps (up from three on the Droid). All of these changes will soon come to other Android phones as a software update.
    Despite these goodies, the Nexus is missing some important features that iPhone fans take for granted. For starters, the Google app store is much smaller, featuring 18,000 fun little games; there are well over 100,000 for the iPhone.
    Worse, even if you find a lot of good ones, you might not have anywhere to install them. The Nexus can accommodate memory cards up to 32 gigabytes (a 4 gigabyte card comes with it)—and yet, inexplicably, the Nexus allots only the tiniest sliver of that (190 megabytes) for downloaded apps.
    There's no physical ringer on-off switch (you have to do it on the screen), and therefore no way to tell by touch if the ringer is off, as you can on the iPhone and Palm phones.
    Sadly, the Nexus One also lacks a multitouch screen like the iPhone's. So zooming into photos and Web pages is awkward and hard to control. Finally, the Nexus just doesn't attain the iPhone's fit and finish. The buttons under the screen (Back, Menu, Home, Search) are balky, often ignoring your finger-presses completely.
    But maybe it doesn't matter if the Nexus One isn't nirvana. Google says it's only the first Google phone of many, with one store to sell them all.
    Google hopes to expand its online phone store, to really shake things up, to put some fear into the entrenched industry players. It plans to sell more phones, from Google and other companies, each with a choice of carriers. It's a noble ambition.
    But at the start, at least, the results are a pair of head-scratchers. The Nexus One is an excellent app phone, fast and powerful but marred by some glitches and missing features -- a worthy competitor to the Droid, if not the iPhone.

Its now lenovo's smart phone

noreply@blogger.com (GRT) — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 03:14:00 +0000

Lenovo has announced a new smartphone called LePhone specifically for the Chinese WCDMA market. It has a really nice 3.7-inch 480x800-pixel resolution display and a completely touch-based interface for navigation--no buttons here. It also boasts a 1GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon processor, a 3.5mm headset jack, 3G data, Wi-Fi, A-GPS, plus a 3.0-megapixel camera and camcorder. However, the big news is that the LePhone runs a specially customized version of Google's Android operating system, which Lenovo is apparently calling the OPhone. It has integrated Twitter and Facebook applications plus an interesting proprietary 9-pin dock connector that lets you latch on an optional external keyboard. We don't know too much else about the Lenovo LePhone, but we probably won't get to get too close to it anyway--a representative from Lenovo has said that it has no plans to release it in the U.S. market.

Sony ericsson unviels its another Green Phone-Elm

noreply@blogger.com (GRT) — Sun, 03 Jan 2010 18:54:00 +0000

The Sony Ericsson Elm handset is the latest addition by the handset manufacturer in its GreenHeart portfolio.

      The Sony Ericsson Elm phone benefits the environment and helps reduce CO2 emissions. It has been made of recycled plastics and is free from hazardous chemicals.

Making it compliant with the Company’s ambition to have devices GreenHeart compliant, Sony Ericsson has incorporated E-manual in phone. The other green features in the handset are its efficiency to be low on power consumption, Walk Mate eco application, green calculator, Minimized packaging, condensed user guide (VH700) as well as Waterborne paint (VH700) used for the device.

Other features of Sony Ericsson Elm:

    * Offer Quality voice with noise shield, clear voice and intelligent volume adaptation
    * Ergonomic keypad
    * Provides the choice to have a back of your personal information over the air on Sonyericsson.com
    * Facilitates social networking the easy switch feature to Facebook, myspace and Twitter
    * Has a 5.0 megapixel auto-focus camera
    * Also offers essential guide features such as Google search and Google Maps, Wisepilot, turn-by-turn navigation with AGPS and 10 days free weather forecast with Accuweather
    * The Elm provides a rich media experience with an integrated Media player and the TrackID feature
    * Has internal memory of up to 280 MB; supports SanDisk microSD up to 16GB

The Sony Ericsson Elm phone will be available in the colours Metal Black and Pearly Rose from Q1 2010. Price has not been disclosed yet.

Favorite Money Management Gadget 2009

noreply@blogger.com (GRT) — Sun, 03 Jan 2010 05:44:00 +0000

Sometimes a good thing can get better! In 2008, 47 percent of SavvySugar readers picked Mint.com as their favorite money management tool of the year and this year, 49 percent of you picked the green management tool again. What is it?

Mint is a free site that lets you to view all of your accounts in one place, provides budgeting tools that help determine where would be easiest to cut spending, and helps find interest savings by comparing your bank account and credit card rates to others. The company also offers helpful apps so you can keep up your management on your phone when you are away from your computer. Online management tools are extremely helpful in goal setting, which sounds just perfect for the new year. To check out a video of the founder explaining how the site works,read more.

The Most gifted on Amazon

noreply@blogger.com (GRT) — Sat, 02 Jan 2010 22:17:00 +0000

Fresh off of the holiday, Amazon has announced that the Kindle is its most-gifted item in company history. While the company hasn't released exact figures for the holiday shopping season the Kindle outsold popular toys, video games, DVDs, and books.
Also of note: on Christmas day, more Kindle books were purchased than actual, physical books, presumably to fill up those brand new Kindle readers!

While the Kindle didn't win the award for your favorite eReader of 2009 Barnes and Noble's Nook — there's no denying the device's popularity, especially as a Christmas gift! I wonder though, if the Nook would have been as popular if it were available to fulfill holiday sales instead of having a long waiting list. — that honor went to

Other geeky holiday bestsellers include the Wii Fit Plus,Super Mario Bros. Wii, and Call of Duty 2: Modern Warfare.

Recall of Cressi Ellipse Black Regulator

noreply@blogger.com (GRT) — Sat, 02 Jan 2010 18:12:00 +0000

Italian scuba equipment manufacturer Cressi is working with the US consumer product safety commission on a recall of their Cressi Ellipse Black MC5 Regulator.

The problem involves a partial obstruction of the High Pressure (HP) port which can produce an inaccurate .........
reading on the pressure gauge, resulting in a slow descent of the needle in the pressure gauge.

While no injuries related to this problem have been reported, Cressi has received three reports of inaccurate pressure readings while the scuba regulators were in use.

The recalled regulators have model name Ellipse Black MC5. "Cressi MC5" and "Cressi Black" are printed on the regulator. The regulators were sold between March 2009 through August 2009.

Consumers should immediately stop using the regulators and return them to a Cressi authorized dive shop for a free repair.

HydroRight Drop-in Dual Flash Converter

noreply@blogger.com (GRT) — Thu, 31 Dec 2009 03:38:00 +0000

The HydroRight Dual Flash Converter can convert your existing toilet to on that conserves water . Your household can save up to 70 percent of the water it uses for flushing. That’s an estimated 15,000 gallons of water per year........
for a four-member family. The converter is easy to install, and no special tools are required for the job. The HydroRight system replaces the flapper, which is the biggest cause of leakage.

Creative's GigaWorks HD50i Speakers with an iPod Dock

noreply@blogger.com (GRT) — Mon, 28 Dec 2009 23:07:00 +0000

Sometimes companies should stick with what they know best. Creative is one such company who was always known for making great speakers for computers as well as sound cards, but then they sort of fell down the rabbit hole.........
when they deviated to Vado and Zen. Well the Gigaworks HD50i is a good example of them sticking to what they know best. Creative is one such company who was always known for making great speakers for computers as well as sound cards, but then they sort of fell down the rabbit hole when they Deviated to Vado and Zen. Well the Gigaworks HD50i is a good example of them sticking to what they know best. This speaker system combines high-definition drivers with Titanium supertweeters, built-in BasXPort which eliminates a third bulky subwoofer which takes up desk space. This speaker system combines high-definition drivers with Titanium supertweeters, built-in BasXPort which eliminates a third bulky subwoofer which takes up desk space. Lastly you can dock your iPod which is truly icing on the cake, and there an included remote that controls it all. Lastly you can dock your iPod which is truly icing on the cake, and there an included remote that controls it all The Creative HD50i retails for $169.99 . The Creative HD50i retails for $ 169.99.

Dodge ZEO gives 250miles/charge

noreply@blogger.com (GRT) — Mon, 28 Dec 2009 01:22:00 +0000

Dodge ZEO from Chrysler is an electric concept car with a 64kWh Li-ion rechargeable battery and runs 250 miles (approximately 402km) per battery charge.

The name “ZEO”, stands for zero emission operation. The four-door concept vehicle has a total weight of 1,202 kg and surprisingly Chrysler says it can go from 0 to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds and reach a top speed of 130mph. Thats pretty impressive.

uCrown 2 Head Massager

noreply@blogger.com (GRT) — Fri, 25 Dec 2009 15:30:00 +0000

Machine-based massagers have made comfort and relaxation more convenient and cost-saving (if you look at it in the long run). Imagine the money you would pay every time you call for a masseuse just to massage... say, your head and scalp. Then why not invest them all in one convenient gadget?

The OSIM uCrown 2 head massaging helmet assures soothing massages every time you put it on your head. This AA battery-powered device simulates how a professional massage therapist does it, using a patented combination of air pressure technology, vibration, magnetic therapy, gentle heat, and soothing music to make your head and scalp warm and relaxed. Each preset program targets key acupressure points for the desired effect as well as an auto-time that lets you set the massage session at 5, 10, or 15 minutes.

The uCrown 2 has an ergonomic design. It is adjustable and comfortable for all head sizes. It also contains three soundtracks, built-in speakers, earphone, and remote control.

LG Unveils the Thinnest LCD TV

noreply@blogger.com (GRT) — Fri, 25 Dec 2009 14:55:00 +0000

LG recently announced that their latest LCD television panel has broken the 3-millimeter barrier, making it the world's thinnest at 2.6 millimeters (or 0.1 inch). This panel, according to LC, uses an ultra-slim, edge-lit LED backlight system as well as proprietary optical film technology.

This unveiling comes after LG introduces its 42- and 47-inch LCD TV panels with a thickness of 5.9 millimeters, the thinnest panels at that time.

The 42-inch LCD panel weighs less than 4 kilograms (8.8 pounds), which makes it ideal as a wall-mounted TV. It also offers 120Hz refresh rate technology with full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution that assures viewers of clear and sharp images.

Both consumers and members of the tech press will have a chance to see this marvel as LG will showcase the product at the upcoming Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas early next year.

A degradable mobile phone-BAMBOO

noreply@blogger.com (GRT) — Fri, 25 Dec 2009 07:48:00 +0000

One billion handsets produced globally each year and only 10% recycled. Average mobile phone user replaces their handset every 18 months. This has a big impact on the environment; 36kg of CO2 is used to make one 90g phone. To reduce the impact of the mobile phone it's time to rethink the materials mobile phone are made of and the manner we recharge them.

The bamboo degradable mobile phone
The bamboo is a degradable mobile phone. When the battery, antenna and print board are removed the case can be placed in compos and a few weeks later the case will begin to disintegrate. Inside the case are bamboo seeds, these will start to grow and feet on the case. After a few months the will turn in to bamboo plant which compensates the impact manufacturing process the bamboo phone has on the environment.

Materials
The case of the bamboo phone is made out two materials. Number one is a bio-plastic which is derived from renewable raw materials such as corn. Number two is bamboo which is a grass and can grow two feet or more a day. When it's harvested, it need not be replanted, because it will grow a new shoot from its extensive root system. So bamboo renews itself readily, unlike hardwood trees, which, once cut, are gone forever. Bamboo is an endlessly renewable resource.
The inefficient recharging of the mobile phones has also an impact the environment. We could save enough energy in one year to power 60,000 European when 10% of the mobile phone users turn off the electricity supply to the chargers after use. The bamboo mobile phone can be recharged with muscle power. The phone is equipped whit a cranking charger; a 3-minute cranking session gives the phone enough power to make one call. This means the bamboo phone never runs out of energy. The phone is also equipped with a monochrome display to ensure maximum energy efficiency.

Mimo Mini USB Monitor

noreply@blogger.com (GRT) — Fri, 25 Dec 2009 07:21:00 +0000

At first we considered making sarcastic comments about paying the same for a miniature 7" monitor that you would for a monitor three times the size. Then we took a closer look at the Mimo Mini USB monitor and realized it is powered entirely via USB, no external AC adaptor or video card needed. This miniature display marvel also runs in landscape or portrait mode and also comes in a touchscreen version. Mimo Mini, we think we love you - full specs after the jump.

Features:

Small monitor runs completely off of USB, giving you an extra mini display whenever and wherever you need it.

No extra power needed. The Mimo monitor is powered by USB.
No extra video card. The Mimo has a built in video card that runs over any USB 2.0 connection.
Rotating Portrait or Landscape view. Go vertical for notes and spreadsheets, horizontal to watch a movie.
Great for laptop use. The Mimo stores easily in your bag and is
ready to go simply by plugging it in
740 Model offers touchscreen abilities for control with a finger or stylus
Mac and Windows driver support (intel Mac only). Additional drivers required for touchscreen use of the 740 monitor on Mac OS.
Display size - 7"
Display resolution - 800 x 480
Brightness - 350 cd/m2
Contrast ratio - 400:1
Connections - USB 2.0

Nook ebook reader

noreply@blogger.com (GRT) — Fri, 25 Dec 2009 06:32:00 +0000

Here comes new ebook reader named nook, this nook can read your ebook and preview your image picture with giid high quality image, its split into two LCD’s on each function, its fun to read your ebook on this machine, so let see what a nook can do for your life.

The first thing I noticed about the LCD was that it was too bright. E-ink is all about eyeball comfort, and I hadn’t really thought about how the LCD underneath would compromise that. Because you don’t want your eyes to have to adjust every time you look down and back up again, it turns out you want that thing a lot dimmer than you might if it was a standalone device. The automatic brightness adjuster isn’t really up to the job, but I found that by dialing it all the way down when reading in bed, and bumping it up a tad, like to 20%, when reading in sunlight, my eyes could look up and down without any annoyance.

The second thing I noticed about the LCD was how nice its keyboard was. Unlike the Kindle, the Nook’s keyboard is only visible when you need it, and as an iPhone user, I found it natural and accurate. The capacitive touch is a real boon, especially on a screen so small.

Besides the keyboard and assorted lists of settings and files, the little screen can display a directional pad for moving around text when highlighting or looking up words in the dictionary; it can give you a search box and a place to type notations; it can pop up the music player without leaving the page; it flows book covers in your library and in the store. And when the screen goes dark, you can make horizontal swipe gestures to turn the pages of the e-ink screen above.

16 Cool Computer Keyboards

noreply@blogger.com (GRT) — Thu, 24 Dec 2009 21:00:00 +0000

The transition of computers has been radical, from machines that used to fill complete rooms to the netbooks that fit in the pocket. This is equally mirrored in evolution of the primary data input device, the keyboard. The successor of the type writer has taken customization and radical designing to new heights.

But the conventional keyboard with 105 keys has moved aside to make way for a diverse set of keyboards some of which even has no keys! The coolest of the boards, some with added-on feature oriented keys; dynamically programmable keys; and even keyboard that are laser projections with no material board.

Here is a list of unusual yet supercool keyboards.

1. Wolf King Warrior XXtreme

When gaming has taken over the computer world, the specially designed, The Wolf King Warrior takes the center stage. With lighted keys and and flexible 3-layer silicon membrane enables gaming in the dark, extremely quite. Minimal change in hand position allows the gamer to reach all the FPS and RPG gaming keys and type with one hand. The audio keys and the ‘K Lock’ feature enables constant communication.

2. The Ergo Keyboard from Nicolas Tavlas

When comfort and ergonomics takes the center stage Nicolas Tavlas with this correctly names Ergo Keyboard. An incline of 25 degrees on either side of the keyboard enables the hands to be in the most possible neutral position. It has the familiar layout, but reduces the twisting of the wrist and has more keys grouped on the left side, enabling constant movement of the right hand between the keyboard and the mouse.

3. orbiTouch Keyless Ergonomic Keyboard

With an integrated mouse, this radical design is something that needs a little getting used to. No wonder it comes with a typing tutor! The orbitouch creates a keystroke when you slide the two domes into one of their eight respective positions. A user types the different characters by sliding the domes to create letters and numbers. It removes the barrier between the keyoard and the mouse, integrating both of them into a single product.

4. Virtual Laser Keyboard

The LASER technology, projecting a full sized keyboard onto any flat surface is the new revolutionary accessory to go with Black Berry’s, PDA’s MAC’s and Tablet PC’s. It can be connected to the computer using USB dongle. With a leather case to carry it around, the Virtual Laser Keyboard can be carried around in the pocket!

5. Ergonomic Steampunk Keyboard

The odd looking, yet perfect tool for typing is a modified M-15 Split Ergonomic keyboard from IBM, modified by datamancer. The typing plane is tipped to the front and the keyboard has a built in touchpad mouse for easy navigation.

6. Amex Digital Touch-Screen Wireless Keyboard

The Touch Sense Windows Vista Keyboard with dedicated Media center keys boast about being the most advanced touch keyboard with ultimate feel and response. The Amex Digital keyboard is an ideal accessory for any high end computer with 2.4G RF technology that lets you go wirefree withing 30 feet.

7. Handwriting Recognition Keyboard

With a highly sensitive Handwriting recognition system which doubles up as a mouse, the A1Pro Keyboard is a highly capable tool for digitizing your handwriting.It has an ultra thin design and is a fashionable USB connected accessory.

8. The Frog Pad

The unique keyboard is optimized with a full size set of 20 most frequently used keys. It sets a new standard in information access with superior portability and ergonomics, global adaptability, rapid learning and ease of use. The keyboard which can be easily used in Left hand mode or Right Hand mode is easily customizable, and can be set to any international language.

9. Customizabe Keyboard

The DX1 System, with each keys available for customization is for all those people who want a change from the QWERTY key distribution. Configurable according to the needs, the DX1 can be tuned for photoshop, gaming, spftwares and preferances with property settings for each key.

10. Maltron 3D Ergonomics Keyboard

The Maltron 3D fits the length and reach of your hand and finger lengths to reduce movement and tension and prevents the twisting of the wrist with its split design. It has a center number cluster which can be easily operated by either hand.

11. Roll Up Keyboard

Featuring the standard QWERTY layout, the keyboard comes with a twist. It is the most portable full keyboard to date; roll it up and pack it away!

A great tool for laptop users who miss their full-sized Keyboard when on the road, or LAN party warriors looking to lighten their load.

12. Optimus Maximus

With a total of 113 completely customisable keys the Optimus Maximus has infinite possibilities and configurability. With each key being a stand alone display, it can be configured to any language, or be assigned to custom functionalities. Each key can be configured to access web sites, custom HTML functions, notes, numerals or special symbols. Images can be added to the keys so that they can be easily recgnized later.

13. Logitech diNovo Edge

The diNovo Edge has been Laser cut from a single, semi-translucent piece of black Plexiglas and set into a brushed-aluminum frame.

With a touch sensitive volume control and The TouchDis navigation which enables the cursor movement corresponding to the movement of the finger on the disc. The PerfectStroke™ key system , which enables seamless typing and makes no sound no matter ow hard or fast you type. . The LogiTech diNovo is rechargeable and a two hour charge yields up to two months of battery life.

14. Logitech G19 Gaming Keyboard

Sophistication reaches new levels with the Logitech G19 Gaming Keyboard. 2 USB ports allow data transfer to and from peripherals at un precedented speeds. Upto 5 keys to be simultaneously pressed, thereby allowing execution of multi-key complex moves. The G19 Keyboard has Tiltable, 320 x 240 px, color GamePanel LCD which shows “unprecedented levels of information—both in- and out-of-game—including game stats, system information, VOIP communication data, video playback, image slideshows, and many other items.” User-se;lectable back lights allows playing in the dark.

15. Tipro Custom Assembled Keyboard

The Highly Flexible and fully customisable Tipro Keyboard with Rugged plastic housing has optional pointing, reading and control modules. The keyboard has User definable input data control which makes it a best solution for a user’s particular needs. Superior mechanical long travel keyswitches and metal carrying plate and secure cabling make it rugged and highly reliable. The Tipro Custom Keyboard is Assembled by Unique Micro Designs.

16. Optimus Tactus

When a display monitor masquerades as a keyboard, comes Optimus Tactus. Programmable to display keys in any shape size or numbers, the Optimus Tactus can also display pictures or play videos.

Western Digital unveils – World’s Fastest SATA Drives

noreply@blogger.com (GRT) — Thu, 24 Dec 2009 07:12:00 +0000

WD Raptor, the most popular hard drive for high-performance enthusiasts who demand the ultimate SATA drive, the WD VelociRaptor hard drive is built with enterprise-class mechanics and packs 300 GB of storage capacity into a 2.5-inch enterprise form factor. The 2.5-inch WD VelociRaptor drive is enclosed in the IcePackâ„¢, a 3.5-inch mounting frame with a built-in heat sink — a customization that fits the drive into a standard 3.5-inch system bay and keeps this powerful drive extra cool when installed in a high-performance desktop chassis.

“Demand for ever-higher PC performance continues to increase and WD is the leader in this category with the WD Raptor. We created WD VelociRaptor hard drives to lead PC enthusiasts into the next era of PC and Mac storage performance and satisfy their insatiable thirst for computing speed,” said Tom McDorman, vice president and general manager of WD’s enterprise business unit. “The new WD VelociRaptor delivers the greatest performance and reliability of all SATA hard drives currently on the market.”

WD VelociRaptor is the next step up for the speed-craving PC enthusiast, and as with all WD drives, attention to detail in features, performance and reliability is a top priority. Features of the new WD VelociRaptor hard drives include:

Killer Speed – Built on the performance of the WD Raptor, these 10,000 RPM drives, with SATA 3 Gb/s interface, and 16 MB cache deliver mind-bending performance.
Rock-solid Reliability - WD VelociRaptor drives are designed and manufactured to business-critical, enterprise-class standards to provide enterprise reliability in high duty cycle environments. The design results in the highest available reliability rating of any SATA drive at 1.4 million hours MTBF.
IcePack Mounting Frame – The 2.5-inch WD VelociRaptor drives are enclosed in a 3.5-inch enterprise-class mounting frame with a built-in heat sink that keeps this powerful little drive extra cool when installed in high-performance desktop chassis.
Rotary Acceleration Feed Forward (RAFFâ„¢) – Optimizes performance when the drives are used in vibration-prone, multi-drive chassis.
SecureParkâ„¢ – Parks the recording heads off the disk surface during spin up, spin down and when the drive is off. This ensures the recording head never touches the disk surface, resulting in improved long-term reliability and increased drive protection when the chassis is moved.

EDGE DiskGO USB Watch Drive

noreply@blogger.com (GRT) — Thu, 24 Dec 2009 07:12:00 +0000

The DiskGO USB Watch Drive might have you feeling like a real secret agent! The face of the watch hides flash memory that you can connect, via USB port, to any modern PC or Mac!More than a sharp-looking watch, the DiskGO USB Watch Drive is a fully functioning USB flash drive, plugging directly into your computer’s USB port and appearing as a hard drive on your desktop. The DiskGO USB Watch Drive allows for easy transfer and storage of digital photos, songs, and all other important files. This cool device is hard to lose and more convenient than a standard USB flash drive!

TrekStor USB Bottle Opener

noreply@blogger.com (GRT) — Tue, 22 Dec 2009 15:13:00 +0000

Ah yes, is there anything that you can’t USB-ify?! Well if there is, then it’s not a bottle opener! The TrekStor USB-Stick CO 8GB is a bottle opener and a USB 2.0 thumbdrive.

It’s a good-looking solid, brushed aluminum opener/stick. It’s a bit pricey, but should hold up for a long time assuming one of your buddies doesn’t swipe it from you when you get a bit too buzzed to notice.

Samsung HT-BD7200 2.1 channel Blue-Ray Home Theater System

noreply@blogger.com (GRT) — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 14:25:00 +0000

Besides the Blu-ray player, Samsung also showed off a new home theatre system called the HT-BD7200. We think it manages to stand out in the crowd of the many home entertainment systems revealed thanks to its stylish design. Adorning Samsung’s signature ToC design accents, the system is astonishingly just 2.6” deep. The ultra-cool home entertainment system also supports an iPod dock besides offering compatibility to the BD-Live technology. The Blu-ray system boasts of a 5.1 channel surround sound that offers a 1000W output. With support for low power consumption, the Blu-ray home theater system also includes an improved amplifier engine. There are no details on the price or availability of the Samsung HT-BD7200 Home Theater System.

Transparent Toaster

noreply@blogger.com (GRT) — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 08:28:00 +0000

This transparent toaster allows you to see your bread while it is toasting so you can make sure you never burn toast again. This idea is based on a transparent heating glass technology. Although the glass unfortunately does not currently get hot enough to toast bread, the vendor explained with some research and development this appliance will be hitting the shelves by 2009. The concept was developed by the Inventables Concept Studio

Sony YARI - introduces Gesture Gaming on Mobile Phone

noreply@blogger.com (GRT) — Sat, 19 Dec 2009 10:43:00 +0000

The Sony Ericsson Yari camera offering is a 5.0 mega pixel unit which is an excellent quality unit with a plethora of extras included. The camera operates at a resolution of 2592 x 1944 pixels and provides, auto focus, face detection, image stabilisation as well as geo tagging and an LED flash. The sony Yari also offers the alternative of video recording and playback which is at an impressive QVGA quality and 30 frames per second. This offers excellent quality images for both static and video options. A secondary camera provides the ability to conduct video calls.

Internet access is offered by the use of the available HSDPA connection, at a speed of up to 3.6 Mbps whilst GPRS, EDGE,Blue tooth and USB ensure all the elements of connectivity are covered and available to the user. Internal memory on the Yari is 60 Mb and can be upgraded and expanded by using the microSD slot up to 16Gb

MP3 and MP4 files can be played on the Sony Yari due to its player’s ability to play most audio and video file formats. The addition of a stereo FM Radio ensures an alternative to downloaded music is available. Control of the player can be by the impressive Shake control. Extra software included within the phone package is an organiser and a voice memo recorder.It also comes with Gesture Gaming.