Friday, December 18, 2009

Phinix Cube PC

Many users argue that barebone systems are generally weak in performance because most of the work goes into the customizing the look of the case. I disargee with that fact. Barebone systems allow for easy installation, modification and upgrading over ready-to-go assembled computers which support limited upgrades like RAM and CPU Fan.



Here is an example of a desktop pc made in a form of a cube that supports my statement.







It has a nice and attractive design and it's performance is quite good. Inside of this Phinix Cube PC is: Intel Core 2 Duo E8500 3.16GHz processor, 4GB of RAM, SSD-disk 30GB and 320GB hard drive, also a Leadtek GeForce GTX 280 video card.



Phinix Cube is equipped with water cooling system, which was the toughest decision manufacturers had to make to make this pc more appealing.

Wednesday, December 16, 2009

Screenshots of Android 2.1 built-on Nexus One

Soon to be released Google Nexus One, has few information leaks regarding photography, video, etc. Another interesting news is there is information regarding ROM Nexus One built-on Google Android 2.1 platform. It was installed on Motorola Droid for Verizon operator.



Based on the screenshots we can conclude that Android 2.1 will highly differ from version 2.0. There is a new weather widget, application for reading news, updated home screen, and the menu has been placed at the bottom.



Google Nexus One will be released in the beginning of January. Experts from HTC and Google are working hard on the manufacturing of this device. The update for Android 2.1 will be available for latest Google phones, including HTC Hero and Motorola Droid.




Friday, December 11, 2009

Java GUI Managing Various Layouts

Few weeks ago I posted a code and a screen shot how to code and use Java's GUI GridLayout. After doing some research I found a great video tutorial on YouTube. Here is the link on how to create and use GridBagLayout. Ever since I watched the video, I've been using GridBagLayout for my projects and it helps a lot. Here is the video, let me know what you think:

Half of the users are ready to pay for third-party applications

Samsung offers mobile applications for sale through their Samsung Application Store. Obviously before selling the products Samsung conducted a survey asking their users whether they are willing to pay for useful applications. The survey was done in British Columbia, France and Italy.



The results are outstanding 42% of the voters would pay for applications for their mobile phones. From the given percentage 54% of those offered as much as 5 euro per third-party application.

Here is some relevant statistics based on the survey:
  • 34% - users that never installed applications are willing to pay for applications useful for navigation while they travel;
  • 12% - for photos/images/pictures;
  • 11% - for work related reasons;
  • 9% - for shopping
Samsung also found out that women are most interested in games than man - 70% vs 57%. Everyone 1 out of five users complain that the market lacks good quality browsing applications, what the market has now does not meet user requirements. Designers should also pay more attention to the content of work and travel applications.

In addition, 43% of users launch their third-party applications only one time - may be because they are bored or low quality.

What do you use your third-paty applications for? And how often you use them? Are you willing to pay for your additional applications? Respond in comment section.

Top Ten Games (2009)

We're approching the end of year 2009 and many sites will start publishing their list of top 10 games for 2009. The first publisher became The Time magazine, here is their list of top ten games for 2009:
  1. Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2;
  2. Batman: Arkham Asylum;
  3. DJ Hero;
  4. Borderlands;
  5. New Super Mario Bros. Wii;
  6. Geo-Defense Swarm;
  7. Scribblenauts;
  8. Halo 3: ODST;
  9. Assassin's Creed 2;
  10. Uncharted 2
You are most likely familiar with vast majority of these games and as you now all of them are well ranked over the internet. Happy gaming to all.

Desktop Cygnus X1

At times when we look at the art work of desktop computers we notice the bright LED lights, large cooling fans and beautiful drawings on the case. But in this case the design of this desktop computer has been manually manufactured using wood and aluminum. There is no bright LED lights or loud fan noises, and it doesn't attract the eye because of it's bright colors the difference here is the nice, neat, and pleasent to the eye wooden case.


The key feature of this case is the sliding up top panel, which reminds you of the side doors in sports cars that open up. You can appreciate the design yourself, the quality of the work can be seen on the side panels as well.










Desktop Apple Mac Pro 3.33GHz Intel Xeon CPU

Apple recently announced an upgrade to their desktop Mac Pro computers. Now, you can upgrade your desktop computer with Intel Xeon 3.33GHz quad-core processors. Additionally, future buyers will able to upgrade their hard drive capacity to 2 terabytes for $550.



The default configuration package for this desktop pc comes with a single quad-core Intel Xeon 2.66GHz processor, 640GB hard drive, 3GB RAM, nVidia GeForce GT 120 with 512MB video memory. The cost of this piece is $2,500.


The upgraded version of this product contains the following specifications: two quad-core Intel Xeon processors, 6GB RAM, 640GB hard drive, and nVidia GeForce GT 120 with 512MB video memory. The cost of this desktop PC is $3,300.

Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Open-Downloads.net - Free Music Downloads

After surfing online looking for various ways to download music I stumbled upon this website, called Open-Downloads.net. It has a simple yet attractive design. The search function is quite neat as well, I tried some of the familiar artists and was able to find what I needed. On the home page there is a list of top songs which is always updated. There is also a wide variety of artists displayed in the Music tab.

I'm not too familiar with music industry or their websites. Has anyone else found any other decent sources for online music? Check out the website tell me what you think.

Friday, November 20, 2009

100 Terabyte Flash Drive (USB)

American company ViON presented craziest flash drive in the world. The device HyperStor-6200 has the capacity of 100 Terabytes. Not only does this device set world capacity record but its transfer speed is outstanding as well. HyperStor-6200 is capable of transferring files at 60 GB/s.

The cost of this device is around few hunder thousand dollars. HyperStor-6200 is a desktop device so carrying it in your pocket is not an option.

Would you buy one if you could afford it?

Monday, November 16, 2009

Dr. Web scanner deletes BackDoor.Tdss.565

Dr.Web released a new anti-virus update with a graphical interface. Now, the application allows the identification and removal of BackDoor.Tdss.565 trojan program. The update also covers the following utilities: Dr.Web Securiy Space, Anti-virus Dr.Web 5.0 for Windows, Dr.WEb Enterprise Suite, Dr.Web for server files on Windows, Dr.Web CureIt!, Dr.Web CureNet! and also the Anti-Virus Dr.Web service.

BackDoor.Tdss.565 is a new type of trojan which allows the "developers" to take full control over your computer. The following applications will be updated automatically: Dr.Web Security Space, Anti-virus Dr.Web 5.0 for Windows, Dr.Web Enterprise Suite, Dr.Web for server files on Windows, Dr.Web CureNet!, and the users signed up for Anti-Virus Dr.Web service.

The Dr.Web CureIt! utility will have to be downloaded and installed all over again, manually.

A new way of communication: Draw With Your Eyes

The invention was produced by Free Art and Technology (FAT), OpenFrameworks, Graffiti Research Lab, and The Ebeling Group is offering "the second life" to disabled people. Researches developed a unique EyeWriter technology which allows persons to communicate with each other using only one eye. The device uses a camera which scans the apple of eye and reflects a line path which in the end produces an image.



Using a specifically designed software paralyzed human being is capable of drawing on the computer, by using virtual (imaginary) wrists. The person literally pictures him or herself drawing with a wrist. This will cause the eye to move as the person pretends draw, that is where the application is programmed to reflect the changes on the screen. The developers of this device aren't sure how important this tool may be to disabled people so the developers prices the EyeWriter at $50 dollars. The software application which is required to operate the tool and support is absolutely free.

Sunday, November 15, 2009

Touch Roulette on iPhone

I wonder if there are fans of Russian Roulette? Most likely the real fans of this game aren't alive any more. But the revolutionary technology is proud to present the first and safe way to play the game. Your safe alternative to Russian Roulette, now you and your friends can enjoy the game without getting harmed. The application is available for iPhone(s).


DS Media Labs, creaters of the application announce that this friendly user game will help to resolve any issue. Honestly, if it's safe why not give it a try. This video will give you an actual idea of the game play:

Google Street View shows the world unusual images

As we all know, there are a lot of people currently unhappy with the service Google Street View because it takes images of people without their permission. But so far Google has managed to successfuly battle with these problems. This recent story shows a woman was brought down by strong winds produced by the rushing emergency vehicle somewhere in Holand.



Google becomes a witness to this incident. In more detail a fire truck was rushing through the small streets of Holand and using its large mass created strong winds/vertex which caused an elder woman to fall of the bike in the middle of the road. The fire truck did not hit the lady, it was just the wind. Seems like a small fact but now the whole world knows about it thanks to Google Street View.

To avoid any conflict with future complaints regarding people's faces being photographed Google started to block people's faces using the blur effect. Also, on this image you can see the license plate on the car being blurred as well. I guess that gets covered now too.

Four Radeon HD 5870 video cards under nitrogen cooling

It seems as if there is nothing interesting we could say about Radeon HD 5870, since Radeon HD 5900 is about to be released. But that is not necessarily true because what you are about to see will blow your mind. Below are the images of four exactly the same video cards linked together and cooled using nitrogen. We have all seen the video with cpu nitrogen cooling and it was quite amazing producing outstanding results. This time we are turning to four Radeon HD 5870 cards linked together, here is what it looks like:




Instead of original cooling fans these video cards received full nitrogen cooling. Thanks to hipro5 overclockers, they were able to accelerate the frequency of the card up to 1242 MHz. Local video memory was working on 1300 MHz. hipro5 used Core i7 975 Extreme Edition processor with only 5333 MHz. All five stages of this test need critical attention because if one fails then they all fail.




hipro5 didn't have to wait for a long time before they scored an outstanding world record 191062 points in 3DMark.

Saturday, November 14, 2009

Google Chrome OS released? May be next week?

We've received information back in July that Google is planning to launch its personal operating system. Well, according to the rumors the OS is planned to be released in the next week. Google representatives promised to release their OS in the fall of this year. There are plans that future notebooks will have Chrome OS pre-installed on them. The reason for the delay is the ability to support the minimum amount of devices. A large number of programmers are constantly working on Chrome OS. To create, maintain and support the drivers for the operating system Google gets in touch directly with the manufacturers.



On top of that, to spice things up Google needs a demonstration of the working operating system built on technologies where Google can push aside its competitors. Most likely it will be laptops, mainly and especially from the companies that worked on the operating system, like: Acer, Adobe, ASUS, Freescale, Hewlett-Packard, Lenovo, Qualcomm, Texax Instruments and Toshiba.

To tell you the truth I can't wait to see what Google did with their OS. Going back to Google's previous projects where everything is neat, fast and efficient I think this is going to be huge. Let's wait and see.

Friday, November 13, 2009

Google is buying Gizmo5

In the beginning of this week there were rumors about Google planning to buy out Gizmo5, the popular player in the phone over IP market. In the last few days Google officially confirmed the news to buy Gizmo5.

According to the published data, Google will buy Gizmo5 for $30 million dollars. Some experts say the purchase of Gizmo5 will allow Google to take a good competitive position in the phone over IP market, similar to Skype. This will expand Google's current IT giant technology Google Talk.

For the moment Gizmo5 will stop providing service to it's current customers ($6/month). Once the deal with Google is complete the service will be renewed.

Thursday, November 12, 2009

Apple will upgrade iPod touch before the end of the year

In Septmeber, Apple completely upgraded iPod  players. Coming towards the end of the third quarter of the year Apple announces that all models are (players, phones and computers) packaged and ready for shipment. Although, this is far from the truth.


There are rumors that Apple will release a junior version of iPhone 3GS with 8GB of memory. It will substitute the most available iPhone 3G with 8GB of memory costing the same amount - $99 with a contractor. In December Apple will release its upgraded version of iPod touch. The only difference in the new version is the additional camera.

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

What Programming Language To Learn?

This question has been going around forums for a very long time and yet people don't get it. It's simple. First decide what it is it you're trying to accomplish. Do you want to build a website or write an executable program? What tasks you want the application to perform? and so on. Then simply choose any language that works with your idea and find a step-by-step guide. Then start with small exercises and build on them, eventually you will get better and you will progress as you move along. There are lots of tutorials online, some are good, some are bad, and some are just decent. At times it may take you to go through several sources before you understand a certain topic but if you have the desire to learn programming then you will get it.

The reason why I am suggesting to learn any language is because the logic in any programming language is the same, the only difference is the syntax and the availability of certain functions. Which are very limited. Once you understand one language then you know them all, just figure out the syntax.

Having said that, if you want to build a website start with PHP. If you want to write an executable program start with C#, just because it's something I started with in college and it seemed simple enough. I found PASCAL to be more difficult in high school for some reason or may be I just didn't pay attention.

Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor

Microsoft realeased an Upgrade Advisor for Windows 7. This utility scans your PC's hardware and software, analyzing and testing. It will determine if your machine is ready to take on Windows 7 and the steps you should take towards upgrading your Windows Operating System.

Technically, if your PC can run Windows Vista flawlessly (disregarding Vista's issues) then the chance of Windows 7 running perfectly on your machine is high.

The utility sends the information it gathers to Microsoft but it is not used to identify or contact you. At least that's what Microsoft reports. You can find more information and download the utility from Microsoft's website right here.

New update for Zune HD

Microsoft released a new update for Zune HD player version 4.3.

The new version enhances the use of the device by enabling horizontal keyboard and automated word completion or suggestion. Here is the video:



Users also noticed the increasing browser speed, updated biographies and built-in links inside the text, the use of the radio, and the viewing of full-sized web-pages. The new update supports current 3D games and applications. The release is planned to happen on October 17, at the same time with the Xbox 360 update.

XBOX 360 XBOX LIVE Connection Failed

It seems that around 600 thousand owners of Xbox 360 lost their right to use Xbox Live service. The reason being is the illegal modification of the console allowing users to play pirated versions of the game. Microsofts indicates that any changes to the console's hardware or software is considered illegal and breaks the Xbox 360 agreement in result disconnecting users from the service.

The business sector in video gaming industry depends on the purchase of the games and/or services. The incomes come from second or third parties allowing gaming companies to develop more games by paying their employees. If the company lacks the necessary budget to make the game then the next "big hit" is going to be your windows calculator.

Microsoft provides no information regarding how they identify modified consoles but they are sure all of them are now officially banned from Xbox Live service.

Being banned from the service does not stop the console from operating but simply now allows to use the Xbox Live service ever again. Microsoft loses around $1 billion because of hacking and cracking actions on the hardware and software.

Friday, November 6, 2009

Java GUI - using Eclipse (GridLayout)

I have spent the last few days searching online a tutorial with a decent explanation on how to create/use GUI functions in Eclipse using Java. Unfortunately, no luck. So after a number of hair pulling and frustrating hours I managed to get down a simple technique which works flawlessly and now I understand how to use the GridLayout properly. This guide is for those that have a general idea of the methods and functions used with GUI and their parameters, but if you want me to expand on something just leave a comment and I'll be glad to do that. At the bottom of the page you will find a screen shot with the code nicely organized.


Here are the steps to making your first GUI using Java. I will use one JComponent to illustrate the use and from there you can expand as much as you like. Here we go.

Step 1: Create a class and import the following: import javax.swing.*; , java.awt.*; and java.awt.event.*;

import javax.swing.*;
import java.awt.*;
import java.awt.event.*;

public class Boom extends JFrame {

}

Step 2: Declare the variables and initial objects you will use as private. We declare the variables and objects in the class because we want them to be accessible to all methods of the class.

public class Boom {
private JLabel entry;
private JTextField input;
private JButton display;

public String userInput;
}


Step 3: Create a constructor for the class you created. This is where you will place all of your code for GUI so that when you call the class everything will be initialized, created and drawn to the frame.

public class Boom extends JFrame {
private JLabel entry;
private JTextField input;
private JButton display;

public Boom()
{
}
}


Step 4: Create JPanel. I will post only the portion of the code we are creating but still within the public Boom() constructor.

JPanel p = new JPanel(new GridLayout(3,1));

Step 5: Finalize object declaration.

JPanel p = new JPanel(new GridLayout(3,1));
entry = new JLabel("Text to display:");
input = new JTextField(20);
display = new JButton("Display");


Step 6: Add objects to JPanel.

p.add(entry);
p.add(input);
p.add(display);


Step 7: Create and register handlers. These will be responsible to identify which handler reacts to which action, you will see what I mean in a second. (Still in the constructor). Note: Don't worry if the ButtonHandler is underlined as red because we are going to create it in the next few steps.

ButtonHandler b = new ButtonHandler();
display.addActionListener(b);


Step 8: Create a JFrame and set the necessary values to begin. Add the JPanel you created to the JFrame.


JFrame frame = new JFrame();
frame.setSize(300, 400);
frame.setDefaultCloseOperation(JFrame.EXIT_ON_CLOSE);
frame.add(p);
frame.setVisible(true);


Step 9: Create a private inner class with the same name as the handler object with ActionListener implementation. Here we are outside of the constructor, but still in the class itself, that's why this is called an inner class. Because we are using the same name for the class as the handler, the display button registered with this handler will only react to the ButtonHandler action event.

private class ButtonHandler implements ActionListener
{
}


Step 10: Within the private class, create a public void actionPerformed method with (ActionEvent e) parameters. Inside the curly braces set what you want to execute when the handler is triggered.

private class ButtonHandler implements ActionListener
{
public void actionPerformed(ActionEvent e)
{
if(e.getSource() == display)
{
userInput = input.getText();
JOptionPane.showMessageDialog(null, userInput);
}
}
}


Step 11: Create a new class with main method and call for Boom class.

public class Run {
public static void main(String[] args) {
new Boom();
}
}


Using this technique you can make as many panels as you want grouping your fields, buttons nicely and then simply adding them to the JFrame, like we did (frame.add(p);)

Image here: http://img80.imageshack.us/img80/9863/javagridlayout.jpg

Wednesday, November 4, 2009

Adobe Connect Now

Adobe launched a neat tool for elaboration, business, and personal use among team-members. The web-based interface allows users to:
  • communicate over the microphone;
  • share web-cameras;
  • share files;
  • chat;
  • remote desktop;
  • share desktop view;
This tool even has a built-in whiteboard which allows users to draw/type anything they want and let everyone in the room see what's going on.The room consists of an easy-to-use URL address which is customizable for easy memorization.

The incredible thing about this interface is that it doesn't require any additional software or application components to download, just make sure you have the latest Flash Player (plug-in) installed on your machine and you'll be up and running in no time.

Take advantage of this tool and learn more here: http://www.adobe.com/acom/connectnow/

iPhone Problems with Synchronization

It has been few weeks now since the issue regarding iPhone's sync function has been floating on Apple website. Many users are receiving the "error 0xE8000065" error during the synchronization process. Mostly the users experiencing the problem are using Windows 7 operating system. But the problem is not in Windows 7. The error has been vastly noticed in Windows Vista and motherboard built on Intel P55 Express chips.

Intel has been notified of the problem and is currently working to resolve the issue. It's assumed that the problem is with the BIOS or system configuration. Apple is asking consumers to submit an email with details of their machines where iPhone is used (connected). Meaning Apple is doing their own investigation as well. Microsoft is also up on their feet in search of the bug.

NVIDIA introduces Nexus

NVIDIA developed Nexus industry's first development environment for massive parallel computing. Nexus will be integrated into Visual Studio allow coders to analyze efficiency, performance and speed of the GPU and CPU at the same time.

For more information, click here.

How to Upload iPhone Ringtones for Free

Here is a simple guide to uploading your ringtones to iPhone phones. No additional software or hardware is necessary other than what came with the iPhone. During the process make sure your iPhone is already connected just to be safe.

1. Open iTunes, in the Library (of the PC not iPhone) locate the song you want to use as a ringtone (even if it's a full song).

2. Right mouse click the song and choose Get Info. Choose Options tab and place a check mark for Start Time and Finish Time.

3. Pick the 30-40 seconds of the song you want use as the ringtone and use the minute settings in the Start/Finish Time to set start and finish of the song. For example, the song I like is Good Girls Gone Bad by Cobra Starship. I want the first chorus of the song to be my ringtone. It begins at 00:44 and ends at 01:16. So, in the Options tab with Start and End Time check marks set I would set the Start Time to 00:44:00 and End Time to 01:16:00.

4. Click OK. This will create a copy of the song but only with the specified play time.

5. Right click the small piece you just created and click Create AAC version.

6. Right click and delete the file you just created, but choose Keep Files at the prompt. This will keep the file in iTunes folder but delete it from the application so you don't have duplicates when you sync your iPhone.

7. Go Start>My Documents>My Music>iTunes>iTunes Music, here locate the folder with either the song name you chose or the Artist name. Usually the folder is created based on the Artist's name.

8. Open the folder, if there is another one open it as well. Here you will find your song file with the extension .m4a

9. Simply right-click the file and choose Rename. Change only the extension from .m4a to .m4r and press Enter. (Optional: You can change the name of the file to your preference)
Note: Depending on your windows operating system your extension might not be visible during the rename stage of this guide because windows hides common extensions from users. In this case do the following. Open Control Panel, open Folder Options, select View tab, locate "Hide extensions for known file types" option and remove the check mark, click OK. Now the extensions are visible.

10. Open the file for Playback in iTunes by double-clicking the file. The file is automatically added to your computers Ringtones section.

11. Now, right-click Ringtones in your iPhone section and choose Sync. Done.

Congratulations you have the knowledge to upload as many ringtones to your iPhone as you like at no cost at all. Post your comments and experiences following this guide. Enjoy.

Wednesday, March 4, 2009

PlayStation 3: Video Settings

Quite an issue many PlayStation 3 users are experiencing after switching cables or TVs. I've experienced the same problem after buying my PlayStation 3 off someones hands.

If you recently switched from HDMI cable to A/V output (for older televisions) you'll notice that your PlayStation 3 is working fine but there is no display on the screen, the reason being is that you haven't changed your video settings to lower or higher resolution depending what you're switching from. But the problem you're experiencing is that you can't switch the video settings on your PlayStation 3 console because there is no display.

To solve this, all you have to do is plug your console in and make sure the red light (stand by) is on. At this point push and hold the reset/power button until you hear two (2) clicks. Doing this procedure once may not be enough, so do it several times but give a few seconds in between for the display to pop-up. First time may not work as your console will just start up, but turn it off and try again. This solved my problem and will yours as well. You either have to change the settings on your console before you switch TVs or perform this procedure after you switched TVs or even cables at times. Enjoy and happy gaming!

Monday, February 9, 2009

DAEMON Tools Pro 4.30.0304: working with image files

Daemon released a new version of their popular image working utility. Daemon Tools Pro gives you an ability to create and manage already created image files. The software works with all kinds of image extensions - .ccd, .pdi, .bwt, .cdi, .b5t, .nrg, .cue, .isz, .iso. Emulator is capable of converting files to the home extension - .mds.

The main advantage of this image utility is that it bypasses many protections CDs or DVDs may have against copying. The majority of protections that Daemon Tools may work with are SafeDisc, SecuROM, LaserLock, RMPS and others. When creating image files you can add a password protection to control who can and can not view the files.

The new version has updated language module, silent mode is fixed and many other issues have been taken care of.

Designers: Daemon's Home
Distribution: shareware
Operating System: Windows All
File Size: 11.5 MB
Download by clicking here.

EF Mailbox Manager 5.20: check your inbox

A new version of EF Mailbox Manager has been released. Unlike Windows Mail, this is a great utility for checking your email without having to log-in to the POP3 website. The difference between this utility and others is that it gives you the ability to check, write, and delete email messages without having to download emails to your computer. The EF Mailbox Manager works with POP3 accounts. With a server's availability you may setup EF Mailbox in such a way that your password will not be sent over the internet to connect to your inbox.

Designers: EFSoftware
Distribution: shareware, $14
Operating System: Windows All
File Size: 1.4 MB
Download by clicking here.

iPhone 4G from titan in a box?

The next official iPhone announce will happen in June. Until then Apple employees don't have much time to come up with a new design. That's how the concept of iPhone 4G came alive.

As the author indicated, the new iPhone 4G will be made of titan, the display is built using OLED technology, closing the glass. The corners of this device aren't smoothed out as well as iPhone 3G but the functions became a reality: 32 GB memory, 3.2 mega-pixel camera with a recording video function, front camera for video chat (iChat), fully functional GPS, external battery.

iPhone 4G doesn't have as many changes as iPhone 3G, but we're still waiting. But as always, Apple will find a way to satisfy its customers with style.

Three LCD monitors from ASUS for various multimedia activities

ASUSTeK Computer filled their collection with three different Wide LCD screens in one time, all made for the main purpose of watching movies on wide LCD screen.

As mentioned in the press-release, each model has different characteristics and built on progressive technology, including ASUS Splendid Video Intelligence Technology (offers five different pre-configured video settings and three skin color options), Aspect Control Technology (guarnatees a quality viewing of 4:3 aspect images on wide screen monitor) and ASUS Smart Contrast Ratio Technology (allows great increase in contrast ratio). Each model is equipped with Trace Free Technology allowing monitors to have 2 ms response time in GTG setting.

ASUS VK266H characteristics:
  • Screen size: 25.5 inches;
  • Screen ratio: 16:10;
  • Resolution: 1920 x 1200 pixels (WUXGA);
  • Brightness: 300;
  • Contrast Ratio: 20,000:1 (ASCR);
  • Response Time: 2 ms (GTG);
  • Viewing angle: 160 degrees vertical and 170 horizontal;
  • Sound: two built-in speakers with 3 Watts each;
  • Web-camera: 2.0 mega-pixels with Smart EV (Exposure Value) Control technology;
  • Power use: Around than 60 watt while active and around 2 watts in stand by mode;
  • Interfaces: DVI-D, D-Sub, HDMI, 3.5 mm audio input and S/PDIF-output;
  • Physical dimensions: 597 x 462 x 230 mm;
  • Weight: 7.9 kg.

ASUS VK246H and ASUS VW246H characteristics:
  • Screen size: 24 inches;
  • Screen ratio: 16:9;
  • Resolution: 1920 x 1080 pixels (Full HD);
  • Brightness: 300;
  • Contrast Ratio: 20,000:1 (ASCR);
  • Response time: 2 ms (GTG);
  • Angle view: 160 degrees vertical and 170 degrees horizontal viewing ability;
  • Web-camera: 1.3 mega-pixels (only for VK246H);
  • Power usage: Around 60 watts in active mode and around 2 watts in Stand By Mode;
  • Interfaces: DVI-D, D-Sub, HDMI and 3.5 mm audio input;
  • Physical Dimensions: 568 x 422 x 230 mm;
  • Weight: 5.5 kg.
Recommended price for the models ASUS VK266H, ASUS VK246H and ASUS VW246H is set to $800, $600 and $580.

GeForce GTX 260 in original "gold" Gainward version

Official website Gainward published a review regarding their new modified video card built on 55-nm technology, chip called G200-103-B2 with 216 streaming processors. The modified video card is nVidia GeForce GTX 260. As you have noticed more and more companies are applying their modifications to the new chips enhancing video card's performance to the max.

Gainward GTX 260 896 MB TV Dual DVI Golden Sample uses a non-traditional red color, equipped with original dual-layer cooler and two fans and happens to be overclocked by the manufacturer functioning on 625/2200 MHz (core/memory). The built-in accelerator works under PCI Express 2.0 x16 and uses GDDR3 memory with 896 MB capacity with 448-bit interface. Line transfer of 111,89 GB/s. The modified piece supports DirectX 10.0 Shader Model 4.0, nVidia PhysX Technology, nVidia PureVideo HD Technology, nVidia CUDA Technology and nVidia SLI Technology. Also, the card is equipped with two DVI ports and one HDTV-output on the back panel.

Information regarding the cost and start of mass-production is still unavailable.

Galaxy prepared a low-profile GeForce 9500/9400 GT

Rumors say that Galaxy Technology is preparing to present their new video cards of nVidia GeForce 9500 GT and nVidia GeForce 9400 GT, built in low profile and made for effective use in HTPC systems.

Galaxy GeForce 9400 GT Low Profile uses 16 streaming processors, while Galaxy GeForce 9500 GT Low Profile has 32 shader blocks. Each model uses a non-traditional blue color, equipped with DDR2 512 MB memory with 128-bit interface, and functions on 550/1375/800 MHz frequency. Each model uses a single slot cooling system, and uses PCI Express 2.0 x16, supports DirectX 10, and nVidia PureVideo HD Technology, nVidia PhysX Technology and nVidia CUDA Technology. Also, both cards are equipped with DVI, D-Sub and HDTV ports on the back panel.

No official informaiton regarding release date or cost has been released. Check back soon.

HIPER Osiris Desktop Case: Gunmetal

HIPER company announced their new and effective desktop case during a press-release conference, called Gunmetal. The new model is way attractible than previous popular model Osiris. Gunmetal's official model code is HTC-1G514-A2.

This case uses a special metail, called 6063-T5, widely used in military actions. Gunmetal's case wall thickness is 2mm. Overall dimensions are 526 x 202 x 452 mm and weighs 8.4 kg.

Here are some other technical characteristics:

  • Mid-Tower case;
  • Cooling system uses three 120-mm fans all spinning at 1,500 RPMs (one at the back, one at the top of the case, and last one is in front of HDD Mudular-Rack to cool down the drives)
  • Capability to expand up to five 5.25 inch devices and up to five 3.5 inch hard drives;
  • Supports the following motherboard models and standards: ATX, Micro ATX, Flex ATX and ITX;
  • Sevel slots for expansion;
  • The front cover has eSata port, two USB 2.0 ports, and Audio In, Audio Out and Line In ports;
  • Additional holes were made for liquid cooling system tubes.

HIPER Osiris Gunmetal will cost approximately 145 euro.

Friday, February 6, 2009

Raidmax Eclipse Rig for PC Users with a taste

Raidmax company recently presented their new desktop case design, called Eclipse. There is nothing too different about this case that any original case would have. The only thing that makes this case stand out is its unique design with a see-through side window, red lighting, mini-door for optical drives and a nice cooling technique.

Inside the case, hard drive spots have been nicely replaced to allow users easily install new hardware without having to going all over the place. To install new platforms for expansion or optical drives, designers used a special locking system which doesn't require screwdrivers, almost like a snap-on solution.

The case is cooled down using many quite 12-cm fans. There are six12-cm fans in the case allowing them to rotate slowly while producing enough air flow to cool down computer hardware. Two 12-cm fans are located on the see-through side with lighting, one 12-cm fan in front and back, and additional two 12-cm fans on top of the case.

The front panel has USB and audio ports. Also, Raidmax case comes with a 500 WATT PSU (power supply) which allows users to put together a gaming system with dual video-cards.

Tuesday, February 3, 2009

How Do I Change Hotmail Password?

With Hotmail's new design every user has the same question on their mind, how do I change my password? Back in the day all you'd have to do is click Options and anything you want to change or update is there and up to your preference. So, how do you change hotmail password in the new design?

Simple, just follow these steps:

1. Sign-in to your hotmail account


2. Click Privacy in the bottom left corner of the window


3. You will see this pop-up navigation on top of Privacy, click Account


4. Once Account settings are loaded, you will see the Password field, few stars (your current password) and a Change button. Click Change.


5. This step is self-explanatory, simply fill in your old password then type your new password twice for security purposes where necessary, and click Save.

You are officially done. Good luck.

Monday, February 2, 2009

Batman: Arkham Asylum New Trailer

Recently everyone heard that Batman project has been closed, the company working on it was Pandemic. But don't lose your hope because Eidos is here to save the day. Eidos is currently working on their new and interesting Batman product telling an awesome story of The Dark Knight. Project is called Batman: Arkham Asylum. Today a new trailer has been released from this actiong piece.



In the story line Batman brings Joker to the jail where Joker breaks loose and causes serious trouble. In the end we should expect a fast action game with style. From the trailer you can see that physics of the game have been much improved and graphics are at their best.

Three additional hours of game play for Price of Persia

Price of Persia content will be available February 26, 2009. Ubisoft informs that this add-on will give gamers another three hours of playing time. The mini-package will continue Prince and Elika's story line walking through the underworld (castle).

Also, this package includes: magic power Energize, higher difficulty level, Sprinting Clash (type of attack), new skin prototypes for main characters.

Chrome improves again working with Hotmail

Google the giant is actively working on expanding and enhancing their web browser, called Chrome, but there is still a lot of work to be done. As expected, Chrome doesn't quite work with Hotmail service from Microsoft. Chrome workers decided to release a temporary patch to fix the problem, allowing users to use Hotmail to a limited condition.

Google says that Hotmail started working on making their service usable in Chrome browser, but Microsoft places most of its emphasize on fixing issues with Safari instead. Fixing issues with Safari browser will fix the issue of sending emails using Yahoo Mail and closes possible security holes.

At the moment, many will agree that Google updates Chrome browser almost every week while Hotmail workers are doing it slowly and rarely. Once Hotmail manages to fix their problem with Chrome compatibility it is expected that the patch will be removed or no longer needed.

Mass Effect: patch for PC version

Bioware - creators of Mass Effect, announces that the company has been keeping track of errors and bug of the game on popular forums and message boards. Bioware and Demiurge are working on the patch for Mass Effect and soon we'll see majority (if not all) bugs and errors fixed in this game.

Tracking various forums dedicated to this game allows the company to collect as much information as possible regarding glitches, mistakes, bugs, etc. This will greatly contribute in release one patch to cover most of the bug, instead of releasing a series of patches fixing one or two issues. The official patch release date is still unknown.

MSI Wind U120 Received Unsatisfied Reviews

Laptop Mag got a chance to closely examine MSI Wind U120 and gave a full review on their site (link at the end of the article).

Some of the most interesting features are: cute design, comfortable keyboard (which is a must for laptops), perfect networking abilities and last and most important is the price, which is $379 (pretty much a gift). Unfortunately, the downside of this model is the small mouse pad.

Note that MSI Wind U120 lasts half an hour less on battery life than original Wind model, this makes batter life of about 4.5 hours.

Technical characteristics of MSI Wind U120:

  • Processor - 1.6 Ghz Intel Atom N270;
  • 1 GB Memory;
  • 160 GB hard drive;
  • 10-inch display (1024 x 600 pixels);
  • Bluetooth 2.0, Wi-Fi;
  • Dimensions - 259 x 180 x 33 mm;
  • Weight - 1.27 Kg.

Laptop Mag - complete review