Showing posts with label Boy Toys. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Boy Toys. Show all posts

World Top 8 Smartphones

Here are the World Top 8 Smartphones :
Apple iPhone 4
Apple's latest smart phone raises the bar for displays, camera quality, and two-way video chat in a remarkably slim and sexy design.
Lowest Price: $671.00

Motorola Atrix 4G
This Tegra 2-powered Android smart phone and its innovative dock make it possible to leave the laptop at home.
Price: $199.00

iPhone 4
Apple's best-in-class design and superior apps paired with Verizon's strong 3G network make for a stellar combination.
Price: $199.00

Motorola Droid X
Motorola's supersized Droid has a gigantic display, excellent touch keyboard, and an impressive high-def camcorder with HDMI output.
Lowest Price: $479.00

HTC Evo Shift 4G
Sprint's most affordable 4G phone yet packs a good physical keyboard and smart software into a compact design.
Price: $149.00

Samsung Epic 4G
A fantastic keyboard, 4G data capability, and a jaw-dropping display make this Android phone worth the premium.
Lowest Price: $525.00

Samsung Galaxy S 4G
A speedy data connection and lots of entertainment options make this Android phone an excellent choice for T-Mobile customers.
Price: $199.00

LG Optimus T
You won't find a better Android bargain than this well-designed smart phone.
Price: $29.99
READ MORE - World Top 8 Smartphones

World Best & Worst Laptop Brands 2011 Ranks

The best companies make the best laptops. This is how the top 10 brands rank. Over the last year, we've examined every aspect of the 10 most important notebook companies. The tests we run and the conclusions we reach while spending time with individual notebooks help us identify the strengths and weaknesses of each brand. And we've listened to your praise as well as your complaints about the companies you love and the brands you don't.

145 reviews. 26 Editors' Choice winners. 392 minutes spent on the phone with technical support. Countless hours spent evaluating laptop keyboards, touchpads, pre-loaded software, and design.

The goal of all this? To help you find the perfect laptop, because a machine is only as good as the company that stands behind it. Acer, Apple, ASUS, Dell, HP, Lenovo, MSI, Samsung, Sony, and Toshiba: We've compared each of these manufacturers across eight categories, including reviews performance, technical support, design, keyboards and touchpads, value and selection, software, innovation, and customer satisfaction. The most weight was given to the most important category: reviews. Find out which brands are on top and which ones might not deserve your money.
READ MORE - World Best & Worst Laptop Brands 2011 Ranks

Mobile Phones: Making The World Smaller

The field of communication is experiencing a great deal of innovative changes that are creating a global village. Before the invention of the telephone, it was unimaginable that one could ever actually talk to somebody even twenty miles away. In the world of today, we can't even bring ourselves to picture what life would be like if we could not speak across oceans and continents.

Less than twenty years ago a telephone was attached to a wall and could move only as far as the telephone cord. Today, even in our homes we are able to discuss about about the weather and everything else under the sun from not just the drawing rooms, but also from the kitchen, the bathroom, the attic, or any other place you can picture. The credit for all this went to the cordless phone.

There was a time when the car phone was seen as being a major advance. Who would have imagined that there would come a time when you could talk while you were going from one place to another. Yet, even with cordless phones and car phones, we continued to be attached to something – in this case, the house and the car respectively.

Then the big boom happened! We saw the invention of something that heralded great changes in the way in which the world carried out its communication. The age of the mobile phone had now begun. The contrast was great between this era and the era when letters had to be posted whenever some message of great importance was involved. Back in the days when post was the only way to communicate quickly, one could never have imagined receiving an instant response. But now, as mobile phones continue to boss over our lives, the buzzword is instant communication.

We are the children of the communication era, and are able to watch the rise of newer and newer modes of communication. Certainly, the most deserving representative of this global village is the mobile phone. We are no longer tied down by telephone cords. We are able to talk to our near and dear ones, our colleagues and mentors, and whoever else we would like to even while going from one place to another.

Gone are the days of trying to recall important phone numbers. We have passed the days of looking for a pay phone if we want to make a call. The good old mobile phone is ever ready to make whatever call we want it to!
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Nintendo DSi XL Portable Gaming Experience

You will experience portable gaming all grown up with the extra large screens of the Nintendo DSi XL system, 93% larger than those of the Nintendo DS Lite system. Enjoy a wider viewing angle, a larger pen-like stylus, and 3 pre-installed titles to enjoy right out of the box.

The Nintendo DSi XL system has two ultra bright LCD screens for double the action, and exciting gameplay possibilities. At 4.2 inches, these screens are 93% larger than those of the Nintendo DS Lite system, and offer an easy way for friends and family to join in on the fun.

Nintendo DSi Sound application, you can record and play with your voice using the built-in microphone and a variety of fun filters, or play with your favorite AAC music files. A world of fun with sound awaits*.
The slight downfall of an expanded screen is that, with the same 256x192 resolution as the smaller screens and a good set of eyes you can see the now larger pixels, which gives games a slightly blockier look. An issue that's probably not as noticeable to the older crowd for which the XL is clearly designed.

We'd also assumed the console would come with bigger, easier-to-press buttons, but they're actually all the same size as the dinky DSi ones, d-pad included. So if you ever struggled with the small and closely-positioned buttons of the previous machines you'll receive no resolution here, which seems rather counter intuitive.

On a positive note, they're all just as nicely clicky and the D-pad just as precise as the DSi ones, and the stylus that comes inserted into the console is the same too. Plus, for those of you with Chris Eubank fingers, the XL also includes a fatter pen-sized stylus.

The return of the glossy finish on the top of the console is a welcome one, even if it is more fingerprint prone than the matt finish of the DSi. While the underside of the XL has a rough, matt finish that provides more grip than any previous DS.

Whether or not you should buy a Nintendo DSi XL really depends on how you use your DS - if you tend not to carry it out with you, and only ever tend to use it at home, then the  Nintendo DSi XL is the better choice - if only for the stunning screen size. Games are easier to play and stylus use will be more accurate.

But for its sheer size and increased weight, you wouldn't want this in your pocket or handbag. For gaming on the go, The standard Nintendo DSi is far more convenient and apart from the smaller screens, does the job just as well in all other areas.
READ MORE - Nintendo DSi XL Portable Gaming Experience

How to Get Videos onto Your iPod Video

How to Get Videos onto Your iPod Video - The iPod video is known as the last generation of iPods, which surprised the market and the sales since its appearance. Basically, this new device is able to play videos. If this seems like fun, the technical part might need some guidance.
   
Firstly, you should know that both the PSP and iPod can play H.264 / MPEG-4 encoded videos with AAC audio tracks. Due to this fact, the resolution is rather limited, together with the limitation of the bit rates that you can use on the device. For the new iPod video, this limits means (for the H.264 video) up to up to 768 Kbps, 320 x 240 and 30 frames per second. For the MPEG-4 video, the limits are up to 2.5 mbps, 480 x 480 and the same 30 frames per second. Even more, the AAC audio bit rate is around 160 Kbps. After establishing these limits, the next step is to establish the source of the video, which can be either from a DVD or a video of the computer.
   
In other terms, the company Apple claims, in a purely informative ad which is posted on the official website, that the new iPod, as they call the new iPod video, can store 15, 000 songs, 25, 000 photos and not less than 150 hours of video.
   
If wanting to get a video from a DVD, then the first thing you should do is to insert the DVD in the device. After this, you should open (in case it doesn’t immediately open by itself) the DVD, using file and open DVD from the menu. Check the options in the DVD menu, to set up everything as you like, meaning language, subtitles or chapters. Begin playing the movie, using the DVD menu to navigate. When the movie begins, you should press the record button and select the folder in which you want to store the recorded files. When you want to end the recording, simply click the stop button and if the recording goes well, there will be a screen confirmation that you have converted your file successfully.
   
If you wish to convert a video from your computer to your iPod video, then the first thing that you should do is go to the menu file and click open video file. After this, your video is supposed to begin to play, the perfect moment to adjust the video as you like. Also, you can set the perfect moment to start the recording, using the bottom playback controls. When you decided this, click the button record and feel free to stop it at any time. After recording, just like in the case of importing videos from a DVD device, there will be a message on the screen saying that everything went on successfully.
   
If respecting these basic rules, the videos and movies will be stored carefully in your iPod and you will be free to watch them, at any time. Still, be aware of the fact that the iPod offers limited space and resolution, which means that you should be picky when deciding what to keep and what to delete. The new iPod video is a challenging and innovative product that combines music with images, offering, for the first time, the possibility of playing video on such a small digital device.
READ MORE - How to Get Videos onto Your iPod Video

Nextbook NEXT 8.4 Android Tablet Review

Nextbook NEXT3 is a large 8.4Android tablet which can serves as a eBook reader, video player, music player, photo viewer and web browser. The color display offers 800 X 600 pixels resolution. Running on Android OS 2.1, Nextbook NEXT3 8.4″ is powerd by ARM926 EJ dual-core 600Mhz processor, coupled with 2 x 128MB DDR2 RAM along with 2GB Flash memory (system Memory 1.1GB) . There’s SD Card slot to increase storage capacity.

I realize that this is a trend several hardware manufacturers are going toward, and I’d like to take this moment to ask them to stop. Having physical buttons may offend some aesthetically, but they’re very useful. Especially in instances where an app stops working or the display stops responding to taps. As happened several times when using the Next3. Of course, there is always the chance that the entire system is frozen and it needs a hard reset. However, the Back or Home button would have sufficed for most of the problems I encountered.
As an eBook reader, Nextbook NEXT3 comes with a free, preloaded 25 books. Partnered with Borders.com, you can easily access to Border online bookstore and download eBooks directly with the built-in Borders apps. You can also browse the web from any hotspot via the integrated Wi-Fi. When fully charged, you can read up to 5 hours.

Nextbook NEXT3 supports ePub, PDF, TXT and FB2 files, and can playback of most media files including MP3, MWA, WAV, OGG, FLAC, APE, AAC, AVI, 3GP/MP4, RM/RMVB, FLV, MKV, MOV and WMV. Other specs include 4 Way G-sensor, built-in speaker, 3.5mm jack and USB 2.0 interface. Software Suite Home & Office Edition DVD-ROM, Stylus and Protection cover are included.
READ MORE - Nextbook NEXT 8.4 Android Tablet Review

iPod Workouts - A Trainer You Can Take Anywhere

iPod Workouts - A Trainer You Can Take Anywhere - Yesterday I was riding in my truck.  I went over a bridge that had some exceptionally quick and repetitive bumps.  As I crossed this relatively short bridge and passed an uneventful point in my life something happened that has had me thinking for a full day now.  I felt my belly jiggle.  And when I looked down, I could sort of see it jiggle from under my shirt.  I hated that. 

So, what do I do about it?  Well, if I want to hop on some sort of bandwagon that may actually have the legs to make it into an actual established activity, I need look no further than in the front pocket of my backpack.  What’s in there?  Nothing short of a 20 gig powerhouse packed with nothing less than thousands of my favorite songs.  Yes, its my well used ipod.  I must confess that for the year or so that I’ve owned my ipod, the state of my belly has not improved, but seems to have actually deteriorated.  But, that was before I began to hear about a new use for it (aside from bothering friends into listening to a song that will “change their life”).

Ipod workouts are yet another thing that this apple product is doing that no one expected.  Obviously, a benefit while working out with your ipod is its mobility and its ability to absorb shocks that cd players can’t.  But, the new fad of ipod workouts has taken that at least a step or two further.  There have been several workout instructions that are now available to be purchased or downloaded.  This is like getting yourself a personal trainer that will walk you through your workouts whenever and wherever your heart desires.  Some of these can even come with images that can be displayed on your screen. 

The point is that at times one of the biggest obstacles in the way of you and a belly that doesn’t jiggle when going over bridges is knowing what to do during your workout and having the motivation to do so; and both of these may be significally minimized by using an ipod workout.
READ MORE - iPod Workouts - A Trainer You Can Take Anywhere

Personalize Your Ipod With Ipod Cases

Personalize Your Ipod With Ipod Cases - In today’s day and age, entertainment has become more high-tech than ever. Our computers have become sources of entertainment on every level – allowing us to watch movies, listen to music, and connect to the outside world from the privacy of our own homes. The iPod is the most recent example of entertainment reaching the next level. Now, more than ever, we are able to enjoy music and games no matter where we are; iPods have revolutionized the way we do this – allowing us to download songs into a piece of equipment no bigger than a pack of gum. Ipods travel with us everywhere we go – hidden discretely in our shirt pockets, handbags, and briefcases. And along with iPods have come a myriad of accessories that go along with it. From docking stations and chargers to car adapters and iPod cases, there are a variety of products from which to choose in order to personalize our iPod experience.

Just as you personalize your iPod by the types of songs and games that you purchase and download, you can further personalize your experience by choosing from among iPod cases. iPod cases are ultimately meant to protect your iPod from dirt and scratches. But iPod users have taken it a step further by choosing decorative iPod cases that reflect the user’s personality.

Choosing from among iPod cases ultimately depends on your personality, needs, and budget. Any retail store that sells iPods will also sell iPod cases. But you can also logon to the Apple website where you can browse through and purchase iPod cases that will be sent right to your door.

Today’s iPod cases come in every available color and material – fabric, leather, plastic – and a variety of artful designs. No matter what your hobby or preference, you can find iPod cases that reflect your unique personality. Many people choose to switch out their iPod cases depending on their mood or the season. There are even a full line of high-end, bejeweled iPod cases for people with higher budgets.
READ MORE - Personalize Your Ipod With Ipod Cases

New Gadgets - Six Ideas

New Gadgets - Six Ideas - It is possible that some of these new gadgets already exist in an inventor's basement or garage somewhere. One or two may even be patented, but then again, maybe not. Probably most things are dreamt up ten or ten thousand times before someone actually does something with the idea. The dreaming is more fun for some of us, so feel free to do something with the following.

These signs would be a new advertising gadget. Already, thousands of businesses use large flexible magnetic signs for their vehicles, with the company name and logo on them. However, these can only be used on metallic surfaces. To to stick to car or building windows, they need to have a similar magnet or steel mesh material that is placed on the other side of the glass, to hold them in place magnetically. This may not be a patentable product, but the first to trademark a catchy name and market them widely might do well.

Invisible Walls
This new gadget would just be fun. Make a wall covered with properly placed cameras, and use the other side of the wall as the projection screen for these cameras. The effect would be that of looking right through, into the other room. It would be like an invisible wall. Although I'm not sure what the practical applications might be, an "invisible ceiling" would provide a nice view at night.

Barking Dog Alarm
There are already all sorts of new home security gadgets out there, but there is room for many more. One not-so-new idea is the motion-sensors that set off an alarm. The problem with these is that a criminal may still enter the home, either intending to be in and out quickly, or to turn off the alarm. On the other hand, if the sensor triggers a realistic recording of several large dogs barking, he may hesitate to go further.

Helium Balloon Cell Phone Antenna
Often a cell phone won't work simply for the lack of elevation to get it above interfering hills and other obstacles to the signal. This new gadget would be a simple wire antenna that could be attached to any helium balloon. With light wire, the balloon might lift the antenna 50 or a 100 feet into the air to pick up that signal. A mylar balloon and a tiny canister of helium could be marketed with it too.

Kitchen Towel Gadget
My Kitchen towel gets in the way when I hang it on the refrigerator handle. However, if it had a small but strong magnet sewn into one corner, I could "hang" it anywhere on the refrigerator, or on any other steel surface.

Some people have trouble turning a door knob. Why not make a door knob that is simply pushed to open the door (or pulled if the door opens out)? Hopefully I am too late, and this is already being sold somewhere. Making life easier for those who are disabled and/or older is a great area for inventing new gadgets of all sorts.
READ MORE - New Gadgets - Six Ideas

Why The Limousine Is A Classic, Special Event Car

Why The Limousine Is A Classic, Special Event Car - A limousine, or limo, is an uniquely long luxury vehicle, which traditionally sports black or white colors, although other colors have also been used like pink, or blue or maroon. Limousines are generally chauffeur-driven vehicles and are often associated with the wealthy and powerful.

Luxury vehicles like limousines usually place more emphasis on comfort, appearance, and amenities such as technological upgrades, higher quality material, and comforts like mini-bars, television sets or bubble baths. Luxury vehicles like these are often built in smaller numbers than more affordable mass-market vehicles.

Generally, limousines are utilized for special occasions such as weddings, funerals, birthdays, corporate events, anniversaries as well as for ferrying important people and celebrities. Depending on what the occasion calls for, the color of the limousine needs to match the same. For example, for a funeral, black limousines usually are the best choice.

Currently, limousine companies offer a wide array of new models to suit each client's needs. New vehicles such as the Audi A8L, Leland Miracle, Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Hummer H2, BMW 760li, Lincoln Town Car , Maybach 62 and the Cadillac DTS. Vehicles of this type in private use may contain expensive audio players, televisions, video players, and bars, often with refrigerators. A new version of the limousine is the Limo-Bus, which is actually as large as a bus itself, yet has bigger passenger space, wider bars, and is equipped with dance floors, disco lights and surround sound.

All Limousines are luxury cars that offer spacious interiors. They can carry between 10 to 20 passengers depending on the size and type. There are many types of limousines, ranging from the traditional types of six to eight doors to the party/bus limousine, which is meant to carry a larger group of people who not only want to travel but also want to party while traveling in style. People rent limousines primarily to reflect style and elegance, which is usually the case when celebrities and other officials travel.

A limousine service can vary with pricing. The most simple and standardized limousine service will have the limousine, driver and beverages. When it comes to the driver, the service provider usually will provide a uniformed driver. The driver must be a professional who knows the standard and alternative routes Different types of beverages may be offered on its mini bars, and can range from alcoholic to non alcoholic beverages. Alcoholic drinks may be regulated by authorities in certain areas however.

Some limo services includes extras such as, “Just Married” signs, balloons, bow ties, red royal wedding carpet, interior decoration, flowers, champagne stands, wedding march air horns, and other customizations. Customizations can range from chrome fender trims, chrome post pillar covers with lightings, chrome Cartier wheels, and neon lights. This usually explains how some limousine rentals will cost $45.00 an hour, $85.00 an hour or $125.00 an hour. All of the added amenities are reflected in the pricing, and yet are a worthy investment if one puts a high premium on luxury, convenience, and elegance.
READ MORE - Why The Limousine Is A Classic, Special Event Car

Sony Playstation 3 - Firmware PS3 3.56 Update Available

Sony ps3 update, ps3 3.56, ps3, ps3 3.56 update, sony ps3 has released the 3.56 firmware update for the PlayStation 3, which will effectively invalidate homebrew software and combat piracy.

Sony said late Wednesday that it would soon push out a 3.56 firmware update for the PS3. The company wouldn't give details other than that it would add a "security patch." Most expect that it will attempt to close up the holes exposed by Geohot and fail0verflow that prompted a DMCA lawsuit.

The company has made a regular practice of pushing out minor updates in the past several months under the guise of security that have almost always been intended to patch jailbreaks. It's unknown if the latest attempt was successful or if it will last for long. In creating its most recent exploit, fail0verflow may have discovered a permanent technique that could either leave it always open or have patches that are rendered obsolete in days or even hours.

That seems to be the sole function of the firmware ps3 update, ps3 3.56, ps3, ps3 3.56 update, sony ps3 update – odds are with the current rootkey exploit, hackers will probably make short work of the patch.
READ MORE - Sony Playstation 3 - Firmware PS3 3.56 Update Available

Death by Gaming Sony PSP 2 Launched

Death by Gaming Sony PSP 2 Launched - Sony launched the Sony PSP 2 games on 27 January. Although there has been no official statement from Sony regarding the identity of the new gaming consoles, digital technology website Trends reveals Sony PSP2 using four processor cores, making it worth it for gaming rival Microsoft's Xbox.

In this game device, Sony brings OLED touch screen display that supports images High Definition (HD) with a slide design to remove the controller. There is also an analog stick, microphone, camera facing forward with a resolution of 12 megapixels, as well as Wi-Fi and 3G connectivity.

Types of games available for the PSP game 2, according to the site, approximately the same as that can be played on the PSP games console Go. The presence of Wi-Fi and 3G allows users to download a digital game.

According to Digital Trends, even if Sony did not release a PSP 2 in two days in the future, which is obviously the game will be launched this year. About the price and availability of products, until now Sony is still shut.

Although new to the market late 2011, the PlayStation Portable 2 (PSP 2) could be introduced to the public will at the end of January.

VG247 and gaming site MCV claims, most likely Sony will introduce the PSP 2 on the evaluation meeting and a business strategy that was held in Tokyo, 27 February. Thus was launched Yahoo News, Friday (01/14/2011).

Previously known to the latest PSP will go on sale at the end of the year. Recently, Sony's PlayStation division boss, Kaz Hirai, had leaked the features and design of the PSP 2. Hirai says PSP 2 has a touch screen control as well as physical buttons. In addition, according to Hirai, the game made for PSP 2 could be played in different ways and interface control.

In an interview last December, Hirai also promising, the PSP will be more focused with the types of games more serious than the usual casual games found on the phone, like Angry Birds.

Not only the issues surrounding the PSP 2 that crowded discussed. Sony also pointed out will soon launch a PlayStation mobile phone based on Android. Although the Sony and Sony Ericsson have not confirmed anything, it got leaked phone design amongst technology lovers.
READ MORE - Death by Gaming Sony PSP 2 Launched

LG Optimus Me P350 Release

LG enrich variants Optimus, by presenting Optimus Me P350. Latest product, apparently, designed for young users.

Shown with five choices of colors, this phone work with Android 2.2 Froyo. 3G phones are supported by a relatively complete connectivity devices like GPS on board, WIFI, Bluetooth and microUSB port.

Display width 320x480 resolution with touch screen and accelerometer censor kapatitif, offers users ease of operating the phone.

Carrying the 600 Mhz processor, Optimus Me candy bar has 512 MB of RAM. Having a mega pixel camera 3:15, can be used to photograph. No confirmation on the camera for video recording capabilities.

Its own internal memory is 140 MB. If you want a larger storage capacity, micro SD slot is available. The phone supports external memory with a capacity of up to 32 GB.
READ MORE - LG Optimus Me P350 Release

Let’s Get Digital: SLR Photography Basics

Let’s Get Digital: SLR Photography Basics - Nowadays, according to psychologists, more and more people are getting visually inclined. In other words, most of us love to use our eyes!

In what ways do we use our eyes for?
We use our eyes to view things in our environment. However, through time, man has devised ways on how to preserve the things we see, whether these are beautiful or not, and one of which is by way of using cameras.

These days, the biggest sellers in the camera market are the so-called digital SLR cameras.

Just what is an SLR camera?
SLR is an acronym for Single Lens Reflex. SLR cameras were the tools made for and used by professional photographers. Cameras such as these, similarly, make use of mirror that reflects light entering the lens up into the eye piece or the viewfinder. Thus, a photographer can gauge how the image or picture will look like. Moreover, a SLR camera uses lenses that are interchangeable. Hence, this camera can be used for long distance telephoto photography or close-up macro photography.

A digital SLR or DSLR camera is dependent on lenses and mirror and their optical capabilities. However a DSLR camera uses light sensor chips and digital memory cards instead of films, basically a computerized version of the abovementioned camera.

The following summarizes the comparison between DSLR and point and shoot cameras (SLRs):
1.    DSLRs and SLRs use interchangeable lenses for better resolution.
2.    Any picture you take using SLRs and DSLRs is usually crisper, cleaner and fine upon reproduction.
3.    DSLRs have a higher speed when it comes to focusing and taking pictures
4.    DSLRs perform better at low lighting conditions by using ISO speeds. These cameras have lesser granularity.
5.    DSLRS provide more professional power over depth of field, light, and responsiveness.
6.    DSLRs provide a more immediate feedback as they use digital chips or light sensing CCDs that translate incoming light rays into digital pictures.
7.    DSLRs and SLRs cost more than point and shoot cameras.
8.    DSLRs and SLRs are usually heavier than some point and shoot models.

Some sample DSLR models are listed below:

Prosumer models:
•    Canon EOS 10D
•    Canon EOS Digital Rebel XT
•    Nikon D50
•    Nikon D70s
•    Pentax *ist DS

Professional Models:
•    Canon EOS 1D Mark II
•    Canon EOS 20D
•    Fuji Finepix S3 Pro
•    Nikon D2x

Who actually wants DSLRs? Anyone wants to have crisper and clearer pictures—be it a hobbyist or a professional photographer can opt for a DSLR model. Anyone who will not bother carrying bigger cameras on trips in order to bring back topnotch photos can make use of DSLRs.

Like all electronic and computerized gadgets, digital models tend to get cheaper yet better over time. For sure, DSLRs will eventually migrate down to consumer cameras: ability to take bursts of 10 frames in a few seconds, quick response time, higher resolution image sensors, and accurate auto-focus, among others.

The only thing that will remain constant are the laws of optics—you will not get the same results from a finger-nail sized lens as with larger lenses used by professional users. Also the fact that people do not have enough money all the time remains the same through time.

If you plan to take photography as a profession, practice shooting some shots using prosumers models and consider budget and quality of lenses before you say, “Big Cheese”! 
READ MORE - Let’s Get Digital: SLR Photography Basics

iPad 2 Announcement Rumors on February

iPad 2 Announcement Rumors on February - Kevin Rose says he has it "on good authority" that Apple will be announcing iPad 2 in the next 3-4 weeks, possibly February 1.

He also says it will have front and back cameras and a sharper screen.Here’s an interesting tidbit from Digg’s founder Kevin Rose, whose previous track record when predicting Apple products and new OS features has been either fairly accurate or terribly wrong. So take this with the proverbial grain of salt, as Kevin Rose tweeted and wrote a new entry on his personal blog about the next iPad, the iPad 2. According to Rose, the device will be announced in the next “3-4 weeks”, possibly on February 1.

He also claims the next-gen iPad is going to feature a Retina Display and dual cameras, although in an update to the post he clarifies saying a source told him it won’t be a Retina Display, but a “higher dpi” screen.
I have it on good authority that Apple will be announcing the iPad 2 in the next “3-4 weeks”, possibly Tuesday February 1st. The iPad 2 will feature a retina display and front/back cameras.
If you’re thinking of buying an iPad, hold off for now.
Spoke w/another source, the display has a “higher dpi”, but not technically a retina display. This seems odd to me, we’ll have to wait and see..

Yes, we’ll see. Previous iPad 2 rumors suggested the device would get a Retina Display and rear / front facing cameras as well.
READ MORE - iPad 2 Announcement Rumors on February

The PSP2 Console - A Great Gaming System!


The latest and greatest new gaming system has hit the market place and everybody, and I mean everybody wants it. The competition is great, as usual, to get your hands on one. The release date is scheduled for Friday at midnight and people are lining up and camping out in order to be in the front of the line and to, hopefully, be able to buy one.

Sound familiar? This happens every year when new gaming systems hit the market. The hype and advertising that goes on for months is met with a limited supply of the item.  Remember your economics class in college and the law of supply and demand? Keep the supply low and the price will stay up because people will be willing to pay almost anything for the item they want.

So, what is the rage over the PSP2 console? Actually, what is it? To make this easy, a PSP2 Console is the actual PSP2 system. It is a handheld game system released by Sony, hence the name PlayStation Portable-because you can carry it anywhere.

The system runs on a rechargeable battery that also plugs into any electrical outlet. The average battery life is about 3 hours when the game is turned on and being used. Of course, if you use electricity to play, there is no limit to how long you can play the system-you are only limited by the length of your electrical cord.

The PSP2 console can also be wirelessly connect with other PSP2 systems and this allows two people each with their own PSP2 console to play the same game at the same time. They can be on the same team or play against each other. Using the wireless connection also depends on whether or not the game allows it. The game Madden 2006 allows wireless connections while many other games do not-you would have to check the package to see whether or not it allows for multiple players.

The PSP2 console will play games, UMD movies and perform a variety of other tasks. The PSP2 itself comes in three different packages that start at approx. $200. The PSP2 can even connect to the internet.

Using the PSP2 console will be easier if you add a few accessories. You may want to purchase some that will make the system work better such as a memory stick where you can download and save movies, music and games.

Make the most out of your PSP2 console by knowing what it can and can not do. The majority of electronic equipment today offers many more features that most of us know how to use. If you are going to invest in PSP2 console, make sure that you can use it to its fullest potential.

Having a PSP2 console available for your use is great. You can play a game, listen to music or watch a movie on your way to and from work. If you are not sure how to make it work and how to use all of the buttons, ask a teenager in the neighborhood—they will definitely know how to use it and would probably enjoy teach you the ropes.
READ MORE - The PSP2 Console - A Great Gaming System!

Microsoft Xbox 360 – Game On!

With a variety of gaming consoles available today, all produced by well known and high profile corporations, it can be difficult to know which one is the best to invest your hard earned money in. The choice can become even more overwhelming as technology marches on relentlessly and consoles seem to change as quickly as you can turn around, so if you are having some trouble making a choice, here are some thoughts that might just help you out.

The average lifespan, it is estimated, of a games console is about five years. That is not to say that your still working gaming equipment will suddenly and inexplicably combust after a five year period, rather that at about that time, manufacturers typically introduce a more technologically advanced version of their former console. If being at the cutting edge of technology is important to you, then purchasing a console at the start of this standard five-year period is a wise move.

That’s partly why the Xbox 360 is a great choice right now. Released at the end of 2005, the technology it comprises is absolutely cutting edge, making it, according to a whole host of reviewers, the best buy available. With a wide range of features, including high quality online gaming capability and HDTV compatibility, the Xbox 360 offers a fantastic all round gaming experience. And though this version of the Xbox surpassed its predecessor after only four years, the lifespan of the previous console has been extended to a certain extent, as over two hundred of the most popular Xbox games are compatible with the new 360 version.

Some gamers are holding off on purchasing the Xbox 360. Why? Because the PlayStation 3 is due out sometime this year. But while most experts agree that the PS 3 is likely to contain more technological innovation that the already released Xbox 360, the PlayStation is likely to cost up to $200 more. For the extra investment, the PS 3 will include a Blu-ray high definition DVD player – the down side of this, however, is that movies are not currently available in this format, though they are likely to surface within the next two years.

There is little question that the upcoming PlayStation will be somewhat technologically superior to the Xbox 360, but with a release date still to be confirmed, many gamers prefer not to wait to enjoy gaming of the highest quality. And with technology that will be useless to the majority of consumers for the next couple of years, for many gamers, the PlayStation 3 simply isn’t worth the wait. So enjoy the moment in all its glory, and go for an Xbox 360.
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Exploring The Apple Ipod

In a generation that has no recollection of 8-track cassettes, music has always been a convenience able to be carried around in your pocket. But for those of us who still covet our vinyl record albums, the advent of the Apple iPod is revolutionary; who would have ever imagined that we could store thousands of songs on one portable piece of equipment no bigger than a pack of gum? But iPods have quickly become a staple in today’s society; just as lightweight and necessary as a cell phone.

The Apple iPod, a digital music player, launched in 2001 and quickly found its place among a society on the go. Different series of the model allowed for the capability of holding a set number of songs. But what was originally just a music player has now morphed into a comprehensive piece of equipment, capable of holding music, video, games, and calendars.

Today’s Apple iPod comes in a variety of styles and with just as many capabilities. The iPod Nano offers a lightweight, sleek design that’s extremely portable and easy to use; the iPod Shuffle is a slighty more basic style than its more comprehensive cousins and holds less songs but its affordable price makes it great choice for teenagers; today’s fifth generation Apple iPod offers video capability. But what makes the Apple iPod so remarkable is its ability to interface with all Apple products.  Users can plug in and download songs from Apple iTunes directly onto their iPod; and the newer models allow for information to be transferred from the computer into the iPod and vice versa. As technology continues to advance, the Apple iPod will surely continue to evolve as an essential sidekick.

The best part for consumers is the fact that as the Apple iPod continues to make changes to its original design, its prices continue to fall. Those interested in purchasing an iPod can often do so at a deep discount when a newer model has been launched. But don’t forget the accessories when it comes to the Apple iPod; the convenience of using this amazing piece of equipment lies in the supplemental equipment that makes it so portable. In addition to headphones, iPods have docks that allow it to play through your computer, in your car, and through special speakers anywhere you choose.

User friendly, convenient, and cutting-edge, the Apple iPod has brought music into our lives in a way that nothing else has been able to do; and there’s no going back. Now that such technological advancement is right at our fingertips we will continue to look for ways to utilize its power.
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Microsoft Xbox 360 vs. Sony Playstation 3

Microsoft has tried to catch up with some of the titans of the gaming world, such as Sony with the release of the Xbox 360.  The Xbox 360 offers many new features that players will love:
Free limited subscription to online gaming - This allows players who have not been participating in online gaming a chance to see what is available at no charge.  All Xbox 360s come with Live-aware - This means you can get a friend invite or see who is online and what they are playing from your Xbox 360.  The button in the middle of the controller makes all this very easy.

It offers great media features including listening to music while you play games, the ability to create custom playlists and your own custom soundtracks, the ability to rip songs from original CDs to your Xbox 360 and stream music from your MP3 player to your Xbox 360.  You can also create slideshows of photos to share with friends and family.

Xbox 360 has a wireless controller.  No more tripping over the wires, although it can support two wired controllers through USB ports in the front. The game console is not only great for gamers, but developers as well.  It is a powerful machine with an unprecedented amount of RAM - a feature added on the request of developers.

But, Xbox 360 still has some problems that need to be worked out:
Their Japanese third party support is lacking - While some Japanese developers offer software for the Xbox, it is small in number when compared to what the same developers offer for Playstation.  While the controller is wireless, it eats batteries rather quickly.  Standard alkaline batteries only last about thirty hours, so if you buy Xbox 360, invest in rechargeable batteries to save yourself some money in the end.

When they were set up in WalMart stores before days before the launch, many suffered what is known as the Xbox "360 screen of death," an error screen.  The Xbox 360 had also had some problems with overheating. Some report the Xbox 360 system as being very noisy when playing an Xbox 360 disc.

Many people are eagerly awaiting the release of Playstation 3, which may occur as soon as November of this year.  It has been said that the Playstation 3 has an outward feel (which allows it to stand vertically or horizontally on its own), as opposed to the Xbox 360's inward feel.  It is a much larger console than the Playstation 2 and closer to the original size of the Xbox.  Game discs slide into the console like CDs slide into a car player. 

Here are a few attractive features of the Playstation 3:
It is always on, so you can access your Playstation 3 from anywhere as long as you have an Internet connection.  With a Playstation Portable, you can connect to your Playstation 3 and transfer media such as music and movies. The Playstation 3 appears to be much more powerful than that Xbox 360, Nintedo Revolution, and Playstation 2.  Initial reports say it will be twice as fast as the Xbox 360.
Developers and publishers of over 230 games have announced titles for Playstation 3 games.

Here are a few reported cons and problems with the Xbox 360:
Comes with only 256 MB, less than the 512 MB the Xbox 360 will come with.Their Playstation Network Platform (the online service) is still in development and may not be ready by the time Playstation 3 is released. The launch of the Playstation 3 has already been delayed due to disk problems.

Both the Xbox 360 and Playstation 3 are incredible gaming consoles.  It seems that although the Xbox 360 came out first, the best bet is still the Playstation 3.  The strongest point of the Xbox 360 is its online functionality, but Sony may be working on something similar to Xbox Live right now.  However, Microsoft is closing the gap with Xbox 360 and probably will eventually catch up with Sony in gaming consoles.  For some users, it may come down to something as simple as which one is more compatible with the games they already own.
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The Ipod Generations

The original iPod (mp3 mp4 player) introduced on 23 October 2001 marked the first iPod generation, and the latest iPod introduced on 12 October 2005 marked the fifth iPod generation, which was subsequently revised with a revision iPod model on September 2006, often referred to as generation 5.5.  Note that the generations are referred with reference to the model name and not with reference to the date of release.

For a better understanding about iPod generations, check the following:

On October 23, 2001, the first generation of iPod was released. The model name was iPod and had the storage capacity of 5 to 10 gb. It used FireWire connection to computers and  it had a mechanical scroll wheel.

On July 17, 2002, the second generation of iPod was released. It had the storage capacity of 10, 20 gb. It used FireWire connection to computers and it had a touch-sensitive wheel. The Hold switch was revised.  The FireWire port had a cover.

On April 28, 2003, the third generation of iPod was released. It had the storage capacity of 10, 15, 20, 30, 40 gb. It used FireWire connection to computers (USB for syncing only), and it had a central row of touch sensitive buttons. New backlit screen was introduced.  Dock connector port was introduced.

On January 6, 2004, the first generation of iPod mini was released. It had the storage capacity of 4 gb. It used FireWire or USB connection to computers, and it introduced the "Click Wheel", which was later adopted by the fourth generation iPod.  It was available in 5 colors.

On July 19, 2004, the fourth generation of iPod was released. It had the storage capacity of 20, 30, 40, 60 gb. It used FireWire or USB connection to computers, and buttons were integrated to form "Click Wheel". The monochrome model was replaced in June 2005 by the color display with photo viewer, which was introduced in October 2004.

On January 11, 2005, the first generation of iPod shuffle was released. It had the storage capacity of 512 mb, 1gb. It used USB connection to computers, and it had no screen, no click wheel.  It used flash memory instead of hard drive storage.

On February 22, 2005, the second generation of iPod mini was released. It had the storage capacity of 4, 6 gb. It used FireWire or USB connection to computers , and it had longer battery life, and brighter color variants. Gold model discontinued.  No AC adapter. The body color matched the click wheel lettering.

On September 7, 2005, the first generation of iPod nano was released. It had the storage capacity of 1, 2, 4 gb. It used USB connection to computers (FireWire for charging only), and it was the successor of iPod mini. Slimmer design, flash memory, color screen and lyrics support.

On October 12, 2005, the fifth generation of iPod was released. It had the storage capacity of 30, 60, 80 gb. It used USB connection to computers (FireWire for charging only), and it had large screen with video player and lyrics support.  No AC adapter, Universal Dock, or A/V cables were included. It had black and white color variants. This model was revised in September 2006 (often called as generation 5.5) had a brighter display, a music search function, and a longer video battery life.

On September 12, 2006, the second generation of iPod shuffle was released. It had the storage capacity of 1 gb. It used USB (via dock only), and it had the aluminum case with smaller form factor. Built-in clip.  Later multi-colored models were also released.

On September 12, 2006, the second generation of iPod nano was released. It had the storage capacity of 2, 4, 8 gb It used USB connection to computers (FireWire for charging only), and it had the anodized Aluminum case in 6 colors. Music search function, longer battery life, and brighter screen.

When more refinements are carried out with respect to features, size, weight and etc., a new generation is announced of the respective model. The distinguishing landmarks were the replacement of the mechanical scroll wheel by touch-sensitive click wheel, the replacement of the hard disk by the flash memory, and the replacement of the monochrome display with color displays. Earlier generations are usually discontinued in favor of newer generations.  Earlier generations had bundled software compatible with Macintosh only, while later iPod (mp3 mp4 player) generations have both Macintosh and Windows compatible versions.

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