CewekAms

New professional surveillance application works

2010-07-06T09:48:00.000+08:00

Streaming live video and sound from capture device through webcamera computer application

Surveillance application If you find yourself with a need to record security video with a camera over an area, webcamera server application may be the right choice for you. Using this application, it is possible to set up a camera to detect movement and begin recording when it does.
Depending on your needs, the sights and sounds that are picked up by the camera may be stored on a hard drive, or if the captured video needs to be accessible off-site, can be webcast using the server's streaming feature to a web site.
Depending on the quality of the webcam and the viewer's video card, the picture that is recorded may be as clear as a high-definition tv signal. Using a setup like this, it is possible to provide a measure of protection for an area when the economics of the situation do not justify hiring a security business or setting up a professional monitoring system.
This do-it-yourself approach can save money while not compromising on security.

Web camera software senses movement, sounds alarm, captures snapshots, records video, and sends captured images by e-mail

Webcams are fine for more than just making online conversations more practical. They can in addition be an enormously valuable tool for use in house or company protection. Software is now accessible that can detect motion and use it as a trigger for numerous procedures.
The way that it works is to study the picture sent by a camera that is either attached via USB or through a video capture device for movement. When it picks up that movement, it can after that acquire any number of actions, including triggering an alarm.
An other popular application, though, is to either send live frames of what is happening in the picture that is covered by the camera or to even broadcast by online broadcasting accurately what is happening with both sound and picture. If installed secretly, this software could even be used for secret surveillance.
Given the large amount of devices that either have a webcamera connected or can support one, this is an perfect way to inexpensively and effortlessly guard the zone across that computer from infringement or theft.

New professional surveillance application works with any webcam, Internet cameras, and major capture cards.

Security application has become so sophisticated that the average businessman who has been busy minding his store instead of pouring over electronics and ip technology articles can be easily overwhelmed when it comes time to install or update his surveillance system.
Luckily, there is new professional surveillance software that simplifies much of the decision making. You don't necessarily have to get rid of a working analog CCTV system in order to renew to a broadcasting video that can be monitored from any online connected pc or 3G phone. Video capture cards can digitally convert the snapshots for webcast. Until yesterday, there had been no real attempts to regulate the new Internet cameras; every make and manufacturer functioned a little differently. And when you connect cameras into the merge, finding one application to control them all was unwieldy.
Professional security software is now accessible that will work for any web camera or IP webcam and for most capture cards as well. You can supervise anything your activity sensors are picking up at your room or company while you can be half a world away. The application itself may not be simple, but it can get life simpler for you.

A multimedia delight - Sony Ericsson

2009-12-22T00:41:00.000+08:00

Somebody at Sony Ericsson must have thought it would be a great idea to combine the functionality of a phone with the features of a media player and camera, because this is what the Aino is in a nutshell.

And we have to say, we agree — the Aino is perfect for the gadget lover who wants a device that lets her keep in touch with her friends while allowing her to watch a downloaded episode of C.S.I. or listen to Linkin Park during long commutes or intensely boring meetings.

Interestingly, the Aino has two distinct modes. Slide it open and it becomes a typical Sony Ericsson phone with a keypad. And by that we mean that it’s a solid, reliable mobile phone that you can use to makes calls and send/receive SMS/MMS messages.

It’s fairly easy (and responsive) to use, and it has all the standard features you might expect from any phone, such as an organiser and an alarm clock.

Slide the phone close, however, and you’ll see what makes this device so excellent.

Sight and sounds

For one thing, this mode lets you use the Aino as a media player. The capacitive touchscreen — which is mostly disabled in the phone mode — now lets you browse through the albums and playlists you’ve stored in the phone memory or the attached microSD card.

A few quick taps on the touchscreen can then take you to a listing of the videos and movies on the Aino, which you can enjoy on the phone’s wide 3in TFT display.

Honestly, we were quite surprised at the excellent quality of the audio and video that were coming from this little device.

We’ve successfully tested playing MP3, MP4 and AVI files on the Aino, and the pictures were sharp and the sounds were very clear.

You can watch entire movies on this thing, and if you use the wireless Bluetooth headset which comes included in the box, you can do so without disturbing the people next to you. Or alert the boss to the fact that you’re not paying attention during the intensely boring meeting.

You can transfer files directly to/from the Aino via a USB cable, but the easier way would be to plug the phone into the charging stand and firing up the MediaGo software (both also included in the package) to synchronise files with your PC.

Snapshots

Some people might argue that a camera isn’t exactly a necessary feature of a phone, but generally these people also ride pterodactyls to hunt T-rexes for their dinner. No, a camera is an indispensible feature for current handphones, because you’ll never know when you’ll come across your friends doing something hilarious and/or incriminating that needs to be photographed.

The Aino’s 8.1 megapixel camera — another feature only acessible in the “closed” mode — can produce surprisingly excellent pictures, particularly for a camera phone. Sure, it can’t compare to a DSLR, but try to fit one of those into your pocket.

The Aino’s camera also comes with a flash, 16x digital zoom and the ability to record videos.

But more interestingly, it has a feature which lets you set the focus of the image simply by tapping on it in the touchscreen.

Plus, the phone comes pre-installed with a Facebook app, so if you’re near a WiFi hotspot or if you have a data plan, you can immediately share any hilarious and/or incriminating photos with your other friends.

Everything else

While the multimedia capabilities and the camera are the main attractions of the Aino, the phone has a whole slew of other interesting features, like the Facebook app that was mentioned.

Among other things, the phone has (limited but useful) GPS functionality, so if you need to know how to get to nearby landmarks or which neighbourhood you’re currently lost in, you can always consult Wisepilot or Google Maps.

If you have a PS3, you can utilise the Remote Play feature to wirelessly access (media) content on your machine, which sounds pretty cool on paper. In practice though, we store most of our movies and music on our computer, so the Aino’s ability to wirelessly transfer files via Bluetooth is more useful in this respect.

And if you have a thing for those quirky lil’ Java games for mobile phones, you’ll be happy to know that the Aino lets you access the PlayNow arena, Sony Ericsson’s online store for mobile content. But really, gaming is pretty much the only area of mobile entertainment that the Aino doesn’t shine at. May we suggest a Nintendo DS or a Sony PSP instead?

Great doesn’t mean perfect

Of course, this wouldn’t be a proper review if we never found things about the product to gripe about.

The first complaint about the Aino is in regards to its battery life. On average, when we only used the Aino to send SMS messages and make a few calls, we were able to make the phone last for around three days without recharging.

On the other hand, when we went all out and started watching movies, listening to music on the wireless headset and surfing the Net regularly, we were lucky to get a day’s worth of battery life.

Really, you could have seen that coming from a mile away, but the problem is that the phone has such excellent multimedia capabilities there’s little reason for you to NOT regularly watch movies or listen to music on it.

The numeric keypad also feels a little “shallow” to the touch, which is strange considering how the phone features are reliant on this form of input. This doesn’t affect functionality in any way, only the way the phone feels.

However, the final complaint about the Aino is probably the quirkiest — in our experience, the screen lock isn’t entirely reliable.

Keeping in mind that the touchscreen only gives access to the media features (so phew, you can’t accidentally make phone calls when the phone is closed), and that we regularly carry out phones in our trouser pockets, this creates the strange effect where our trousers would randomly break out into song.

We’re not kidding. This happened to us about once a week, and given how clear and loud the audio from the Aino can be, we’ve started to think that we’re either in a Disney musical or a Bollywood film.

Conclusion

All said, these minor flaws don’t detract from the overall awesomeness of the Aino. And heck, if you’re the kind of guy who likes to spontaneously start a song and dance sequence, some of the “flaws” might actually be an added bonus for you.

The Aino is an excellent device for any gadget lover, whether you’re looking for a mobile media device, a compact camera option or simply a phone that’s just plain reliable and responsive.

For the price, you get a lot of great features fitted nicely into a sleek looking phone. (incidentally, we recommend getting the white colour option if it’s available, if only so you can say that you have an Albino Aino.)

After having had the chance to play around with this phone, this reviewer can say one thing for sure: I know I want an Aino now.

Pros: Mobile media player with superb audio and video; excellent camera; solid phone functionality; looks pretty.

Cons: Not-so-reliable screen lock might cause spontaneous outbreaks of song.

Best Camcorders and Video Cameras

2009-11-16T22:52:00.000+08:00

We rounded up the top ten best video cameras and ten best camcorders along with their reviews and ratings.

There are so many classic moments in our lives where we wish we had a video camera. Fortunately, with the technological trend to shrink with advancement, video cameras and camcorders are packing more power in a more petite frame. We’ve listed our top rated hand-held video cameras and camcorders from electronics pros like Samsung, Sony and JVC.

Check out our Black Friday 2009 guides for holiday deals on top digicams and video cameras.

Canon Vixia HF S10

High Definition
NTSC
MPEG4-AVC / H.264
1/2.6-inch CMOS, RGB Prmary Color Filter
Approx. 8.59 Megapixels
Video: Approx. 6.01 Megapixels
32GB internal Flash drive
Zoom Ratio 10x Optical/200x Digital
Focal Length f=6.4- 64mm (35mm equivalent: 43.5 – 435mm)
60i, 24p Progressive (records at 60i), 30p Progressive (records at 60i)

Check out our review

Samsung HMX-H106

F Value F1.8~2.5
Optical Zoom 10x
Digital Zoom 100x
Recording Resolution 1920×1080i / 1280×720P / 720×480P
Recording Quality SF / F / N
Shutter Speed Manual Shutter 1/60~1/10000
Auto Yes
Filter Diameter 37mm
Type Schneider Kreuznach Varioplan-HD
Sensor Type CMOS
Sensor Size 1/4.5″
No. of pixels 2.2M

Check out our review

Sony HDR-CX100

Format : HD: MPEG4 AVC/H.264 (AVCHD) SD: MPEG2
Video Signal : NTSC color, EIA standards
Weight (Approx.) : w/o battery: 9oz (280g), w battery: 11oz (330g)
Dimensions (Approx.) : 2 1/4 x 2 3/8 x 4 1/2 inch (55 x 60 x 114mm)
Imaging Device : 1/5″ Exmor CMOS sensor with ClearVid array
Processor : BIONZ™ image processor
Pixel Gross : 2360K
Video Actual : 1430K pixels (16:9), 1080K pixels (4:3)
Video Resolution : 1920 x 1080
Still Actual : 1490K pixels (16:9), 1990K pixels (4:3)
Still Picture Resolution : 4 megapixel
Recording Media : 8GB Embedded Flash memory Memory Stick PRO Duo™ Media (Sold Separately)

Check out our review

Canon Vixia HF S11

Product Type Camcorder – 1080p
Digital Zoom 200 x
Camcorder Sensor Resolution 8.59 megapixels
Camcorder Effective Video Resolution 6.01 megapixels
Camcorder Effective Still Resolution 8.02 megapixels
Color Support Color
Auto Exposure Bracketing 3 steps in 1/2 EV step
Face Detection Yes
Still Image Format JPEG
Optical Sensor Size 1/2.6″
Optical Sensor Type CMOS
Analog Video Format NTSC
Digital Video Format AVCHD , H.264 , MPEG-4
Digital Scene Transition Art fader , Wipe fader , Black & white fader
Max Shutter Speed 1/2000 sec

Check out CNET’s review

JVC Everio GZ-HM400

Sensor:1/2.33″ 10.3MP CMOS
Lens: Konica Minolta HD Lens
Zoom: 10x Optical, 15x Dynamic, 200x Digital
Filter Size: 46mm
NTSC System
AVCHD MPEG-4 AVC/H.264
Dolby Digital 2 channel Audio
32GB SD/SDHC Memory Card
UXP: 2 hours, 40 minutes, EP: 14 hours, 40 minutes

Check out our review

Pantech C790 Reveal

2009-11-07T21:16:00.000+08:00

Latest laptops: Hot and cheap

2009-10-31T12:37:00.000+08:00

Here at Crave, as we stare longingly at our giant chocolate Easter eggs, we can't help but remember that oh-so-long-ago New Year's resolution to finally get fit. Thankfully, the latest laptops are doing the work for us -- they're slim, trim and a whole lot sexier.
You'd have to be living in a rabbit hole to not know that thin is in this year. Just 19mm at its thickest point, Apple's MacBook Air sports one of the most innovative designs we've ever seen. But it's not alone in the department of sleek. The Toshiba Portege R500 tips the scales at a meagre 779g, which isn't much more than a loaf of bread. Like a gym membership card, you could easily put the Tosh in your bag and forget it's there.
If it's mobility you're after, may we introduce the Lenovo ThinkPad X300? With its 13.3-inch screen and solid-state drive -- they're all the rage, too -- it ups the ante on the Air and R500, making for an intense battle of the featherweights.
The laptop manufacturers must also realise that your well-earned monthly dosh is, like ours, split between your gym membership and trips to the chippy, and have started offering low-cost laptops that don't skimp on quality. The Asus Eee PC 701 started the trend, but there's a bevy of newbies waiting to take pity on your wallet. The Dell Vostro 1400 starts at just £233, has a range of configurations and, dude -- it's a Dell. While it may not be as stylish as its XPS M1530 sibling, we'd be surprised if you could find a more feature-friendly option for that sum.
Bringing up the rear is Packard Bell's EasyNote XS, which, at £399 might seem pricey in comparison, but it one-ups its competitors with a 30GB hard drive. How's that for value? Check out our round-up of cheap laptops for a side-by-side comparison.
It couldn't be easier to buy a laptop that's small in size or light on your wallet. Throw indecision to the wind and tuck in to some fabulous machines. We'll handle the chocolate.

Fujitsu Launched 2 New Laptops P3010 and P3110 feature an 11.6-inch display

2009-10-20T22:10:00.000+08:00

Fujitsu has launched two new laptops that provides an extra long battery life. The Fujitsu P3010 and P3110 feature an 11.6-inch display and up to 6.7-hour of battery life (or up to 7.2-hours in eco mode). Fujitsu LifeBook P3110 comes with the latest Intel Pentium processor SU4100 (1.30GHz, 800MHz, 2MB L2 Cache) and the LifeBook P3010 features the latest AMD AthlonTM Neo processor MV-40 (1.6GHz, 512KB L2 cache). The LifeBook P3110 is available in Glossy Black, Glossy Silver and Glossy Ruby Red, while the LifeBook P3010 comes in Glossy Black and Glossy Ruby Red.

Acer Announces Windows 7 Laptops

2009-10-15T05:43:00.002+08:00

The Aspire 5738PG's is Acer's first touchscreen notebook.

Acer on Wednesday unveiled the first pieces of its forthcoming Windows 7 line up: a touchscreen laptop and a smaller ultra-portable PC.

The Aspire 5738PG's multi-touchscreen enables users to launch movies, zoom in and out of Web sites, edit photos and video, resize windows, and hand-write notes using one or two fingertips. By flicking the screen, users can turn pages and browse through media and documents.

Acer is the latest computer maker to take advantage of the new touch capabilities in Windows 7. Other vendors that have announced new PCs with touch screens includeHewlett-Packard (NYSE: HPQ), Gateway and Sony.

The consumer version of Microsoft (NSDQ: MSFT)'s latest operating system is scheduled for release Oct. 22.

The 5738PG has a 15.6-inch screen, a 2.2 GHz Intel (NSDQ: INTC) Core 2 Duo T6600 processor and an ATI Radeon HD 4570 graphics processor from Advanced Micro Devices (NYSE: AMD). The system also includes 4 GB of system memory, a 320GB hard drive, built-in Web cam and stereo speakers. The laptop weighs 6.16 pounds with a six-cell battery and carries a suggested retail price of $800.

Acer's latest ultra-portable laptop, the Aspire Timeline AS1810TZ, has an 11.6-inch screen, a full-size keyboard, and a six-cell battery that provides up to eight hours of power. The system weighs three pounds and starts at $600.

Additional specifications include a 1.3 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo SU7300 processor, an Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 4500MHD, 4 GB of system memory, and a 320 GB hard drive.

Acer has also introduced three other Aspire Timeline laptops that will be ship with Windows 7: the 13.3-inch AS3810T, the 14-inch AS4810TZ and the 15.6-inch AS5810TZ. The AS3810T uses a 1.3 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo SU7300 processor, while the other two systems run 1.3 GHz Intel Pentium Dual-Core SU4100 processors.

Each system includes 4GB of system memory, either a 320GB or 500GB hard drive, and a built-in Webcam. The AS3810T has a starting price of $800 and the AS4810TZ and AS5810TZ $650.

All the new Acer systems will be available October 22.

Acer's latest PC lineup debuted a day after Hewlett-Packard introduced its Windows 7 line-up of desktops and laptops. The 11 new systems are loaded with new features such as multi-touch, tilting Webcams, new keypad designs, improved power management, the ability to connect to home gaming systems and even a drain for spills.

Nikon D300s Review

2009-10-09T22:15:00.002+08:00

This summer, nearly two years after the introduction of the D300, Nikon announced its successor, the D300s. The new model adds 720p HD video capture with optional autofocus, in-camera video editing, an on-board mono microphone and a stereo microphone input, a dedicated button for Live View access, dual memory card slots, faster continuous shooting, a new Quiet drive mode, a Virtual Horizon to aid you in keeping the camera level, a redesigned eight-way controller with a centred set button, plus an all-new Info button and on-demand screen tips for new users. Pretty much everything else is unchanged from the D300, including the environmentally sealed magnesium-alloy body, the twelve-megapixel DX sensor, the large optical viewfinder with 100% frame coverage and the fixed 3 inch rear screen with 921,000 dots. The Nikon D300s costs £1499.99 / €1821.00 / $1799.95 body only.

Hands-on: Panasonic HDC-HS20

2009-10-05T23:15:00.001+08:00

Picking up Pannie’s HDC-HS20 came at the wrong end of a group camcorder review, and I say the wrong end because the user fit with this camera was almost instant, unlike a lot of other shooters in the group, which took a bit of getting used to. Perhaps it’s because I’ve used a lot of Panasonic cameras that this one felt so easy to handle. Or not.

This is the first Pannie I’ve used with a touchscreen display, and I’d say it matches Sony’s touchscreen efforts for usability, perhaps just a tad more intuitive, though not as elegantly implemented.

Controls-wise, the HS20 is a minimal beast, with menu functions accessed via the touchscreen, leaving only the bare essentials on the body. Advanced users might think it’s a bit too bare. So yes, it’s easy to use. But it’s easy because you really have to try to mess it up. As an auto-everything shooter, it’s well put together.

A lot of cameras in this class skimp on optical zoom range but the Pannie has a useful 16x zoom. But it’s the camera’s autofocus and exposure handling that won me over. While shooting some test footage, I found that a distant subject at one end of a pan and a close subject at the other end of the pan were handled beautifully by the AF, with a smooth focus transition from far to near subject that had the look of a professional pull-focus technique.

Other cameras I’ve tried recently tend to hunt for the subject in this scenario, with the focus jittering in and out as the pan comes to an end. It was a nice surprise to see the Pannie re-focus purposefully and home in on the subject so positively. I tried a slow tilt shot as well, allowing gravity to pull the tripod’s fluid head down and camera up. The camera re-focussed on different points of interest through the tilt and did so pretty much as I would have done using manual focus.

This is a product of the HS20’s intelligent Auto (iA) with AF tracking, which Pannie says is designed to handle subjects as they move about the frame. Well, it works a treat, and you can tap the touchscreen to direct the AF to pinpoint a subject.

The other character of the camera scoring well was colour handling, with vibrant colours and depth to the footage, brought on by excellent auto exposure control. Actually, this was surprising given that the best quality setting records at 17Mbps to a single sensor. Other AVCHD camcorders in this price range ramp the max bitrate up to 24Mbps. That said, I think most Full HD AVCHD cameras these days are delivering the goods in video quality, at least under normal daylight conditions. The battleground seems to be in low-light conditions. Sony’s Exmor-equipped camcorders are pretty much leading the pack in this regard, and they have an edge on this Pannie, too.

Minor concerns
Gripes? A couple. There are two buttons on the flip-out display. One for deleting files and the other to access the system menu. They’re small, close together, and packed into the bottom, right-hand side, so meaty fingers will find them clumsy to handle. The other one is charging. The battery must be removed in order for the power supply to be plugged into the camera, and the battery has to be charged in a cradle, but you can’t charge the battery and power the camera at the same time. It’s a bit of nuisance value spoiling an otherwise fun to use camcorder. Also, here’s one camcorder you won’t buy for its still shots, which are pretty poor quality.

Turning to the unit’s specs, we have an 80GB HDD with SD/SDHC expansion. The sensor is a 1/6in MOS. It records 5.1 sound using five mics, has a Leica Dicomar 16x optical zoom lens, video light, optical image stabilisation, and a choice of four recording quality settings, from 6Mbps to 17Mbps. You can view the full specs here.

The HS20 carries an RRP of $1429 but you can do a lot better than that. This model has been around a while and a web search reveals you could find it for less than $900, which would make it a very good buy indeed.

For an amateur who just wants to pick up an easy to use camcorder and shoot, the HS20 would make a good fit, and its lovely AF and exposure handling will make them look good.

2009-09-30T19:08:00.000+08:00

Designed for easy, creative shooting, and high-performance in low-light conditions, the Panasonic DMC-LX3 features a F2.0 24mm Leica DC Vario-Summicron lens, 10.1 megapixels and an ultra-sensitive 1/1.63-inch CCD developed specifically for this model. By combining a high-quality lens and sensor ready for a variety of shooting conditions with a wide-range of accessories and manual controls, the DMC-LX3 is ideal for professional photographers and serious amateurs looking for a compact digital camera that furthers their creative photography.

At the heart of the DMC-LX3, is its 1/1.63-inch CCD. Making the intentional choice to limit the number of megapixels to 10.1 on its CCD, Panasonic was able to give more space for each pixel and also redesigned the peripheral circuits and other components to further minimize noise generation. As a result, sensitivity is almost 40 percent higher and saturation is increased by 35 percent when compared to Panasonic?s 10 MP digital cameras, giving the DMC-LX3 outstanding image quality and a wide dynamic range, and meeting the demand for a camera that works optimally in low-light environments. The CCD is also capable of reproducing images in three aspect ratios — 4:3, 3:2 or 16:9. The new Multi Aspect mode allows the camera to take an image in all three aspect ratios simultaneously, allowing users to choose the version that best suits their needs.

Another major upgrade to the LX3 is the F2.0 24mm ultra wide-angle Leica DC Vario-Summicron lens. The F2.0 is about twice as bright as a F2.8 lens and can shoot at higher shutter speeds to capture clear, blur-free images in dimly lit environments. In addition, the 24mm lens captures approximately a 213-percent larger viewing angle than a normal 35mm camera and 136% larger compared to a 28mm wide-angle lens. The lens unit consists of eight elements in six groups with four aspherical lenses with four aspherical surfaces. As a result of the F2.0 lens, the LX3 produces high resolution and minimal distortion and artifacts — such as chromatic aberrations, ghosting and flaring.

The LX3 also incorporates the Venus Engine IV, which provides more advanced signal processing technology for producing higher-quality images with reduced noise in both luminance signal and chromatic signal processing — as compared to the Venus Engine III. The Venus Engine IV supports high sensitivity recording enabling the DMC-LX3 to record at up to ISO 3200 at full resolution and even up to ISO 6400 when using high sensitivity mode, enough to capture subjects in low lighting without using a flash. The Venus Engine IV also supports a faster response time, allowing the camera to shoot 2.5 shots per second at full resolution and six shots per second in High-Speed Burst mode.

The easy-to-use joystick operation which was featured in its predecessor continues with the LX3, as its intuitive design makes selecting different settings on the camera, including focus, aperture and shutter speed — easy and quick. Other convenient design elements include a switch on the side of the lens barrel that allows the user to quickly change the focus modes between Manual Focus, Auto Focus and Macro Auto Focus. When choosing Manual Focus, the focus distance and the depth of field according to the zoom range and aperture is also displayed. For setting white balance, the LX3 provides a new color temperature display function, and still includes the Two-Axis white balance adjustment settings offered in previous models. Users can also customize and store their own personal settings of up to four unique functions and instantly recall them later using the mode dial.

Furthering its creative options, the LX3 also features a Film mode with six color types and three types of monochrome selections. Much like selecting from different film types, this function gives the user the flexibility and creative freedom to take more expressive digital photos. Also, when using the Multi-film mode, the LX3 produces a maximum of three images from a RAW file for the user to compare the different textures. Another new feature is the multiple-exposure feature, which lets the user create artistic photos by overlaying up to three consecutive images; while still viewing the last image on the 3.0-inch LCD screen. The LCD on the LX3 is new and improved with a 460,000-dot high resolution.

While the LX3 allows full manual control for more advanced photography, it also includes Panasonic?s Intelligent Auto mode (iA), including the new feature, AF (auto focus) Tracking. AF Tracking automatically tracks the image subject and locks it into focus, making it easier for anyone to capture sharp, well-focused photos. The AF Tracking technology also improves face detection accuracy, allowing for crisp, sharp-focused shots even if the subject moves or turns their face. Other iA technologies include Intelligent Exposure, Digital Red-eye Correction, MEGA O.I.S, Intelligent ISO, Intelligent Scene Selector, Face Detection (up to 15 faces) and Quick AF.

The DMC-LX3 has the ability to record High Definition (HD) video in 1280 x 720p at 24fps. With the newly added HD component output capability, still and moving pictures can be viewed by connecting the camera to a TV via an optional component cable (DMW-HDC2). In addition, the LX3 features Image Leveling, so when a captured image “leans” to the right or left because the camera was held at a slight angle when the photo was taken, this feature rotates the image to straighten it and crops the unnecessary edges.

Product Description

Designed for easy, creative shooting, and high-performance in low-light conditions, the DMC-LX3 features a F2.0 24mm LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMICRON lens, 10.1 megapixels and an ultra-sensitive 1/1.63-inch CCD developed specifically for this model. By combining a high-quality lens and sensor ready for a variety of shooting conditions with a wide-range of accessories and manual controls, the DMC-LX3 is ideal for professional photographers and serious amateurs looking for a compact digital camera that furthers their creative photography.

DXG-125VR HD All-Weather Camcorder

2009-09-24T03:50:00.000+08:00

DXG Technology comes back with its new high definition all-weather camcorder in the form of the DXG-125VR. Made of a sturdy rubber case, this rugged camcorder can withstand bumps and drops, and has the capability to capture both full 1280 x 720 resolution HD video at 30fps as well as 3-megapixel digital still images (interpolated mode). It also sports a 2-inch TFT screen with 480 x 240 resolution, a 128MB of internal memory, a microSDHC card slot, a USB 2.0 interface, an AV jack, an HDMI output and a rechargeable Li-ion battery. The DXG-125VR is now available for purchase for $139.99.

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New Sony Hdr-sr12 Handycam Hd Camcorder

2009-09-18T22:46:00.000+08:00

Weights and Measurements Weight (Approx.) : 1 lb 6oz (650g) with Battery Dimensions (Approx.) : 3 3/8 x 3 x 5 1/2 inch (83×76x138mm) Hardware Assignable Dial : Yes Light/Flash : Yes Manual / Auto Lens Cover : Auto Memory Stick slot : Memory Stick PRO Duo™ Media S/S & Zoom button on LCD : Yes General Imaging Device : 1/3″ ClearVid™ CMOS sensor (with Exmor™ technology) Processor : BIONZ™ image processo Pixel Gross : 5660K Video Actual : 2860K Pixels (4:3), 3810K Pixels (16:9) Video Resolution : 1920 x 1080 Still Actual : 5080K Pixels (4:3), 3810K Pixels (16:9) Still Picture Resolution : 10.2 megapixel Recording Media : 120GB9 Non-Removable Hard Disk Drive, Memory Stick Duo™ Media, Memory Stick PRO Duo™ Media Recording and Playback Times : High Definition: FH = 14 hours 50 min. HQ = 29 hours and 40 min. SP = 36 LP = 48 hours Standard Definition: HQ = 29 hours and 40 min. SP = 44 hours LP = 84 hours and 20 min.When using 8GB Memory Stick PRO Duo™ Media (sold separately): High Definition: FH = up to 55 min., HQ = up to 115 min. SP = up to 140 min., LP = up to 180 min. Standard Definition: HQ = up to 115 min., SP = up to 170 min., LP = up to 5 hours 25 min. Power Battery Type : InfoLITHIUM® with AccuPower™ Meter System (NP-FH60) Power Requirements : 7.2V (battery pack); 8.4V (AC Adaptor) Power Consumption (in Operation) : 4.5W/4.8W/4.9W Video Features PhotoTV HD : Yes Audio Audio Format : Dolby® Digital 5.1 Microphone : Built-in Zoom Microphone Convenience Face Detection : Yes Image Stabilization : O.I.S. Dynamic Range Optimizer : Yes Quick On : Yes Memory Stick PRO™ Media Compatibility : Tested to support up to 8GB media capacity Dual Record : Yes Still Image Mode(s) : JPEG Hybrid : Yes Hybrid Plus : N/A Scene Mode(s) : Auto, Twilight, Twilight Portrait, Candle, Sunrise & Sunset, Fireworks, Landscape, Portrait (Soft Portrait), Spotlight, Beach, Snow Accessory Shoe : Yes (Active Interface Shoe) White Balance : 5 lux(Auto Slow Shutter ON, 1/30 Shutter Speed) Convenience Features Low Light Capability : S-NS x.v.Color™ : Yes Face Index : Yes Film Roll Index : Yes Digital Picture Effect(s) : Old Movie Fader Effect(s) : Black, White Picture Effect(s) : Sepia, Monotone, Pastel Dubbing Button : Yes (Camera body & Handycam Station) Photo Capture from Movie : Yes PictBridge Compatible : Yes Easy Operation : Yes Multiple Language Display : Yes Slide Show Mode : Yes BRAVIA® Sync™ : Yes Optics/Lens Lens Type : Carl Zeiss® Vario-Sonnar® T 35mm Equivalent : 49 – 588mm (4:3 Camera Mode),40 – 480mm (16:9 Camera Mode) Aperture : F1.8-3.1 Digital Zoom : 150x Filter Diameter : 37mm Focal Distance : 4.9 – 58.8mm Focus : Full range auto / Manual Progressive Shutter Mode : Yes Shutter Speed : Auto, 1/30 – 1/250 (Scene Selection Mode) Minimum Illumination : 5 lux (Auto Slow Shutter ON, 1/30 Shutter Speed) Optical Zoom : 12x Exposure : Touch Panel Display LCD Screen : 3.2″ wide1 touch panel Xtra Fine LCD™ display (921k pixels) Viewfinder : Color Wide 16:9 (123K Pixels) Inputs and Outputs Audio/Video Remote Terminal : Yes Analog Audio/Video Output(s) : Included (via A/V Remote Terminal) Digital Audio/Video Output(s) : Yes (via USB) USB Port(s) : Hi-speed (2.0 compliant) Component Video (Y/Pb/Pr) Output(s) : Included (via A/V Remote Terminal) HDMI™ Connection Output(s) : Yes (mini) Headphone Jack : Yes Microphone Input : Yes S-Video Output(s) : Available via A/V Remote (cable not included) Active Interface Shoe : Yes What’s Included: HDR-SR12 Camcorder Battery Charger InfoLITHIUM® Rechargeable Battery Docking Station Multi A/V Cable (Stereo) USB Cable Tripod Remote Control Carrying Case ++++ Zeikos 37mm 2.5X Telephoto and 0.45X Wide Angle Lens Set New. Original Box is not included. I accept PayPal only with a Confirmed Address. Shipping is free via USPS Express Mail Service with a Tracking Number to follow progress. There will be no additional VAT tax. A UK converter plug will also be included. All functions work 100%. If not satisified you can return withing 7 days for a refund.

Samsung TL220 Digital Camera

2009-09-17T04:34:00.000+08:00

With the Samsung TL220 Digital Camera, youll see yourself clearly in every photo even before you snap it! Unlike its competitors, the Samsung TL220 features dual screens both front and back allowing you to set that picture-perfect shot without a second take. An incredible 1.2-megapixel sensor makes it easy for you to shoot crystal clear pictures and enlarge prints to your preferred size. No longer will you have to adjust your camera settings with the mode selection wheel, because the rear LCD touch screen responds to the tip of your finger. Navigate through the Menu display to view a wide range of options, or let the Smart Auto feature make the right selection for you. The Samsung TL220s Smart Auto feature can easily detect picture conditions and determine what preset mode is best for your surroundings. Other noteworthy characteristics of the Samsung TL220 Digital Camera include 4.6x Zoom and a 2.7mm wide angle lens.

Medion's S47000 sports camera shoots HD video, ain't too pretty

2009-09-14T21:31:00.001+08:00

Finally a product that integrates an MP3 player with a Flip-style digital video camera! Of course, we're talking about Medion's S47000 Digital HD Sports Camera, which counts among its many charms: h.264 video recording, 2x digital zoom, a whopping 1MP still camera, HDMI out, and 90MB storage (though there is an SD card slot, for what it's worth). Tempted? Didn't think so. As for us, we're not shelling out £100 ($165) on anything without a pedometer.

Ricoh GR Digital III compact camera

2009-09-12T06:32:00.000+08:00

Review Sometimes, less is more. Take Ricoh’s GR Digital III. It’s a compact camera costing more than £500, but if you’re looking for masses of megapixels, countless scene modes, HD movie recording or even an optical zoom, then forget it. This is the digital camera equivalent of the fixed-gear bicycle; a product for enthusiasts who basically want a camera that can deliver excellent results without the frills.

The quality compact: Ricoh's GR Digital III

Clearly, the GR Digital III isn’t aimed at the average consumer expecting all the bells and whistles for a couple of hundred quid. Instead, it’s designed for the DSLR user or advanced enthusiast who feels more at ease carrying a quality compact in his or her pocket than ever sallying forth cameraless. So it is worth investing in a fixed-focal length compact that costs more than some entry-level DSLRs? You might be surprised.

The GR Digital III is a successor to the GR Digital II, launched back in November 2007. Both cameras have many similarities, including a sleek, black metal alloy body with a large rubberized grip. Yet the GR Digital III has a number of enhancements including, a new F1.9, 6.0 mm lens which is equivalent to 28 mm on a 35 mm film camera. The new GR Engine III image processor has improved noise reduction, and the camera features a large 3in LCD screen composed of 920,000 dots.

Beneath the skin you’ll find a pop-up flash, plus a 10Mp 1/1.7in CCD with an ISO range of 64-1600. The GR Digital III shutter speeds span 180-1/2000sec and it shoots in JPEG and RAW (Adobe DNG) formats, although there’s no option for simultaneous capture in both formats.

Movies can be shot in VGA or QVGA format, although we suspect very few GR Digital III owners will make use of the video facility, and it partly explains why Ricoh has not bothered with an HD option. The GR Digital III uses SD/SDHC/MMC cards and also has a useful 88MB of internal memory.

No HD recording on this camera, it's designed for purists

According to CIPA standards the supplied lithium battery will provide enough power for 370 shots. In real-world conditions, it’ll be less than this, but we did manage more than 200 frames and still had plenty of battery power left. A nice touch is that you can also use two AAA alkaline or NiMH batteries if you run out of battery power, although don’t expect to get more than 25 shots or so when using this reserve power source.

Canon EOS 7D - Review

2009-09-09T21:50:00.000+08:00

Last week Alex did my bank balance no favours at all in offering a heads up concerning the release of Canon’s latest, and hugely anticipated, EOS DSLR (I’d tried to put it from my mind with the wife’s assistance) - namely the Canon EOS 7D - and being an avid EOS fanboy (no apologies there) we thought we’d follow up with a few carefully selected videos of the mighty EOS 7D in action, specifically centring on what the new EOS brings to the table as well as it’s 8 frames per second burst mode and HD video capture capabilities.

Firstly, for those unacquainted with the magnesium alloy bodied, moisture and dust sealed dual DIGIC 4 touting Canon EOS 7D DSLR here’s a brief rundown of what it has to offer in terms of new key features and specifications - and, we think you’ll agree, its pretty impressive stuff:

18 MP APS-C CMOS Sensor: Designed and manufactured by Canon, the sensor produces an outstanding image and offers fantastic performance at high and low conditions, thanks to a new photodiode and microlens construction.
8 fps image capture: Enabled by the Dual “DIGIC 4″ processors and improved electrical system, photographers can capture images at 8fps, without the need for additional accessories and in all file types.
ISO Range: The EOS 7D enables photographers to capture subjects in their natural light. The ISO range (100 - 6,400) is expandable to 12,800.
EOS Movie: With improved operation, making it easy to switch directly to movie mode, it is now even simpler to shoot Full HD video. Users can set exposure and frame rate - with options for 24 fps to create that cinematic feel.
Dual “DIGIC 4″ processors: By utilising Dual “DIGIC 4″ processors, users of the EOS 7D never have to compromise between shooting speed, image quality and ISO performance.
19-point cross-type AF sensor: An improved AF system offers a range of manual and automatic settings including Zone and Spot AF as well as the setting of AF points for vertical or horizontal orientation.

Intelligent Viewfinder: A new revised viewfinder offers 1.0x magnification with 100% frame coverage.
Integrated Speedlite Transmitter: for the first time in an EOS series camera the 7D sports an inbuilt Speedlite Transmitter whilst the integrated flash offers manual control and coverage of focal lengths to 15.
Transmissive LCD: The 7D’s LCD comes with Dual-Axis Electronic Level (the first time this feature has been offered in an EOS camera) allowing end users to gain insight into pitch and roll angles with view to composing captures (especially handy for landscape photographers).

And, for those of you who prefer to gain insight as to the enormous capabilities of the EOS 7D without trawling through swathes of text, the following carefully selected videos will undoubtedly be of interest (the latter being one we simply had to include):

Canon EOS 7D General Overview

Canon EOS 7D Burst Mode in Action

Canon EOS 7D HD Video (60p/24p)

Canon EOS 7D Funny: Mr Hitler & the 7D (Brilliant - Coarse Language Advisory)

As impressive as this all is, as with all things in life, there’s invariably a sting in the tail and, once again, unsurprisingly, its those looking to avail themselves of the EOS 7D in the UK (such as myself) that are getting dumped upon as whilst the 7D will set you back around $1700 in the US it’ll set you back the same figure, in GBP, in the UK.

Yes exchange rates pay a part, but not that bigger part (by any means) so its us UK based consumers getting a RAW (all too obvious pun) deal again. Still, that’s the way the cookie crumbles and I for one (and I suspect I’m not alone) will pay that price when, eventually, I’ve managed to square it with the (quite fabulous) wife - which I will, in time, and with a bit of luck.

We’d be interested to hear what other UK based consumers think of the EOS 7D’s pricing as well as from anyone who’s considering the 7D as their next upgrade (doubtless from the 450D).

Sony Cybershot DSC-HX1 Advanced Point-and-shoot Camera Review

2009-09-05T04:39:00.001+08:00

Brand New Nikon D700,Brand New Canon 1000D,Sony Handycam HDR-FX7 - Camcorder

2009-09-01T07:10:00.001+08:00

Description:

CANON CAMERAS
Brand New Canon 1000D: 650USD
Brand New Canon XH A1 : 800USD
Brand New Canon 40D : 490USD
Brand New Canon 400D : $400 USD
Brand New Canon 450D : $500 USD

CAMERAS AND CAMCORDERS:
Sony Handycam HDR-FX7 - Camcorder$820 USD
Sony HVR-Z1U 3-CCD HDV Professional Camcorder $600 USD
Sony HDR-FX7 camcorder..$600 USD
Sony DSR-250 DVcam camcorder..$985 USD
Canon USA GL2 Pro Digital Camcorder.$680 USD
Canon Powershot SD 700 IS Deluxe Kit$450 USD
Canon Dc22 Digital Camcorder..$450 USD
Canon HV20 HD camcorder.$500 USD
Canon XL2 miniDV Digital Camcorder Body Kit $920 USD

NIKON CAMERAS
Brand New Nikon D700..$1000 USD
Brand New Nikon D40$320USD
Brand New Nikon D40x$399 USD
Brand New Nikon D60 $400 USD
Brand New Nikon D80..$610 USD
Brand New Nikon D90..$650 USD
Brand New Nikon D200$500 USD
Brand New Nikon D300. $700 USD
Brand New Nikon D3. $800 USD
CANON CAMERAS
Brand New Canon 1000D: 650USD
Brand New Canon XH A1 : 800USD
Brand New Canon 40D : 490USD
Brand New Canon 400D : $400 USD
Brand New Canon 450D : $500 USD

CAMERAS AND CAMCORDERS:
Sony Handycam HDR-FX7 - Camcorder$820 USD
Sony HVR-Z1U 3-CCD HDV Professional Camcorder $600 USD
Sony HDR-FX7 camcorder..$600 USD
Sony DSR-250 DVcam camcorder..$985 USD
Canon USA GL2 Pro Digital Camcorder.$680 USD
Canon Powershot SD 700 IS Deluxe Kit$450 USD
Canon Dc22 Digital Camcorder..$450 USD
Canon HV20 HD camcorder.$500 USD
Canon XL2 miniDV Digital Camcorder Body Kit $920 USD

NIKON CAMERAS
Brand New Nikon D700..$1000 USD
Brand New Nikon D40$320USD
Brand New Nikon D40x$399 USD
Brand New Nikon D60 $400 USD
Brand New Nikon D80..$610 USD
Brand New Nikon D90..$650 USD
Brand New Nikon D200$500 USD
Brand New Nikon D300. $700 USD
Brand New Nikon D3. $800 USD

Contact......Direct_shop@hotmail.com

Ad Image(s):

Sony Ericsson C510 Black on T-Mobile

2009-08-28T16:34:00.000+08:00

The Sony Ericsson C510 Black is now offered on T-Mobile. The phone is Free with a signed contract and monthly payments as low as £30.00/month.

Because it is a Sony, you know that it will take super photos with some extra special features. Just mention Cyber Shot and you know that you are going to have some fun with your pictures. The Face recognition automatically finds up to three faces and focuses on them. Activate Smile Shutter and your camera will snap the photo when it detects a smile. What? Really. I am in awe of this feature. And the C510 has built-in GPS - so why not use geo-tagging when taking photos? You can also take videos. The camera is a 3.15 mega pixels with auto focus and LED Flash. And when you take a picture to share with your friends, you can upload right to your Face Book Page. Not only can you watch your favorite Videos on You Tube, you can upload videos of your friends follies as they happen.

Your 3G network gives you high speed Internet. Fast data transfer speeds - up to 384 kbps. Now you can have broadband any where you go. Sending email on the go almost makes carrying a laptop around obsolete. You can make your business mobile. Your phone is also a modem. Use it to connect a pc or laptop to the Internet.

You will have the regular Java powered games, but you also get the new Motion Gaming. Think Wii. Use your phone as the control when you turn or swing. 3D games are also available.

100 MB of memory can be expanded up to 8 G with a Memory Stick Micro™. Your phone book will hold 1000 contacts with 20 fields. 30 missed, dialed and received calls will be saved in the memory.
The battery life is at least decent. With talk time up to 4 hours (3G) and 10 hours (2G) this is at least on the high end compared to other phones of this caliber. The standby time is 350 to 400 hours, that is 16 days. Over all, you will enjoy using the Sony Ericsson C510.

2010 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG

2009-08-26T21:26:00.000+08:00

Fault us for being cynical if you wish, but it was a little too coincidental for a covey of mildly-disguised Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG "test vehicles" to show up at the very hotel where Mazda had put up journalists for a media introduction of its own cars. What's more, the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG test vehicles--of which Mercedes had already provided its own "spy shots" months earlier--were parked out front where the aforementioned journos actually had to walk around them to get to buses that were to take them to a remote site.

An accident? Just as much as getting struck by lightning while standing in the middle of an open field during a thunderstorm while wearing a tinfoil hat.

It didn't hurt, either, that a goodly portion of those journalists were carrying cameras, heading out to the field for a day of Mazda testing. Cosmic coincidence? We think not.

The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG "Gullwing," as Mercedes often calls it, will be a celebration of the original Mercedes-Benz 300 SL "gullwing" of 1954. The photos show the shape of the doors, which hinge at the peak of the roof, though we didn't see them open.

The SLS AMG is something special unto itself, as Mercedes-Benz describes it:

"For the first time in the company's history stretching back over 40 years, the Mercedes-Benz performance brand [AMG-ed.] is presenting a vehicle developed in-house, the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG.

"The super sports car serves up an exciting proposition with its unique technology package: aluminum spaceframe body with gullwing doors, AMG 6.3-litre V8 front-mid engine developing 420 kW/563 hp (479 lb-ft of torque) peak output and dry sump lubrication, seven-speed dual-clutch transmission in a transaxle configuration and sports suspension with aluminum double wishbones. The ideal front/rear weight distribution of 48 to 52 percent and the vehicle's low centre of gravity are testimony to the uncompromising sports car concept."

As also noted in material provided to the media in March of this year:

"During the development of the new 'Gullwing', the AMG developers placed their trust in the valuable know-how of the specialists from the Mercedes Technology Center (MTC) in Sindelfingen. The aim of this joint development was to turn the SLS AMG 'Gullwing' into the perfect synthesis of the strengths of the Mercedes-Benz and AMG brands."

Mercedes cites provisional performance specifications of 0 to 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds (about 3.7-seconds 0-60 mph) with a top speed of 315 km/h (about 195 mph). Fuel economy on premium fuel is 18 mpg combined, using the European test cycle.

The Mercedes-Benz promises a spring of 2010 availability, though that's certainly in Europe and coming to America sometimes thereafter. Except, perhaps, at future press introductions.

More photos and tecnhical details are included in the photo gallery below.

Illustration: Place test models in semi-camoflage in front of automotive journalists and cameras will sprout like daisies after a spring shower. Or something like that did with the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG recently.

They said the last one was designed by machete. This one's sharper...

2009-08-24T22:23:00.001+08:00

The other day I turned 36 and decided it was time for a new look.

Having been recommended a good hair salon in the next town, I whizzed over there, had my barnet washed by a lady (I think there was a lady under all that make-up) and wandered back in my Dracula-style gown to be shown a big Argos catalogue of possible haircuts.

I picked the one that looked most like the one I had already, and walked out half an hour later, happy but £50 poorer. All right, £120 poorer - I had to buy a load of wax, gel and other hair products to go with my new look.

What most impressed me about the BMW Z4 SDrive 35i was its looks. Or rather, the improvement in its looks

Have you noticed they always do that now? Barbers used to sell nothing but combs and contraceptives; now every 'head stylist' thinks he needs to have his own range of products, and you get the hard sell when you're settling up.

You generally say yes, as the receptionists are so sexy - another recent development that's crept up on me. There's even a hair salon in London with a beer garden. I think they need to be careful not to make these places too nice, though: men don't like things to be too nice. What would your mates say if you actually looked forward to your haircuts? Especially if you've recently started using the gym, as I have, and own one or two pink shirts. It doesn't look good, does it?

I was thinking about how men don't like things to be too nice as I drove home in this new two-seat convertible from BMW. When they first tried a 21st-century roadster, in 2003, the result was the Z3, which a lot of people didn't like.

I'm afraid I was one of them - mainly because of its little 1.9-litre engine, but also because it just looked too, well, nice. With its long nose and cool side-vents - a bit like the Batmobile if you chose black - it had easy appeal. My mate bought one of the first ones, and to be fair, he's still got it - loves it - and with 160,000 miles on the clock it's still going strong, complete with mould in the boot. It wasn't for me, though.

The BMW Z4's leather steering wheel and dash

BMW quickly replaced the Z3 with the Z4, and that divided opinion, too. It was one of designer Chris Bangle's weirdest works - someone said it looked like it had been designed with a machete.

Six years down the line, this new one finally gets everything right. In fact, it feels like it belongs to a different, more serious class of sports car. It's six inches longer, has a folding aluminium (not fabric) roof, has better visibility, better storage, and the 1.9 is no longer offered - the range now starts with a decent 2.5-litre capable of 151mph.

I lucked out and was given the range-topping 35i, which does 0-62mph in 5.2 seconds and has double clutch transmission. Let me take back any mean words I've said about BMW's Z-cars, as this is a proper grown-up roadster. On the motorway it feels comfortable (if a bit skittish at high speeds), but it was on the country roads where I really had fun.

Changing the setting on the Drive Dynamic Control button to 'Sport', which quickens the gear change and stiffens the suspension, I let her rip. With 50:50 weight distribution and optional electronically controlled dampers, it's perfectly poised in the corners, although I feel the steering could be sharper.

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Automatic gear shift (left) and sports seats in SunReflective leather (right)

I found myself burying the brakes before bends, to get the nose down and help me get round quicker - but pulling away was a blast. The 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged straight six in the 35i was Engine Of The Year twice. It knows what it's doing.

What most impressed me was its looks, though. Or rather, the improvement in its looks. With a V-shaped crease in the bonnet, swept headlights and those relatively huge wheels, it's got a wide, low, predatory stance that just feels more dominating than before. The only remnant of the old Z4 is a funny crease across the doors and a strange wedge-shaped boot - the 'Bangle butt', as they call it.

Then again, folding hard-tops always have weird boots - and they all have pitiful luggage space, this being no exception. But it's made up for by the interior, which has that reassuring BMW feel.

2009 Frankfurt Auto Show: New Production Vehicles

2009-08-20T22:22:00.001+08:00

Aston Martin Rapide

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Aston Martin Rapide

It's the lissome four-door you've been waiting for. If you are James Bond, and not Bernie Madoff. It's the Aston Martin Rapide, and it's set for a world show-off in Frankfurt. Crowds may get stuck on its stunning shape; we're keen to hear more about its 470-hp V-12 engine and those "swan-wing" doors Aston's been promising. The child-sized rear seats? We don't have that much attention span, now.

2010 Porsche 911 GT3 RS

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2010 Porsche 911 GT3 RS

The Crayola-chic Porsche 911 GT3 RS is heading a few hundred kilometers north from its birthplace to Frankfurt. It'll bring with it a bored-out 3.8-liter flat six making 450 horsepower. The redline's soared to 8500 rpm, and the more powerful engine's paired with a six-speed manual shifter with shorter ratios than those in the GT3. That probably shaves miles per hour off its top end, Porsche admits, but it's in the interests of making the GT3 RS an even sharper tool on the track.

Ferrari’s stunning 458 Italia is the latest masterpiece penned by the famed Italian design house and coachbuilder

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Ferrari 458 Italia

Heroes welcome--come to Frankfurt, where a Ferrari press-kit giveaway brings with it a danger that even Dave Salmone wouldn't approach without a big knife. (He's the new Paul Hogan, right?) The core of the new Ferrari supercar is a 4.5-liter engine (hence the name, plus an "8" for its cylinder count) that puts out 570 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque. Ferrari promises the new engine, coupled to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, will shuttle the 458 Italia to 60 mph in less than 3.4 seconds--comparable to an, um, Nissan GT-R. Top speed should reach 202 mph.

Lamborghini Reventon Roadster rendering

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Lamborghini Reventon Roadster

Rumors persist that Lamborghini will unveil a Reventon Roadster at the Frankfurt Auto Show this September. All across the interwebs, Lambo-heads are a-twitter, guesstimating that only nine or ten of the supercars will be built, each featuring a snazzy 670-hp V-12 and a pricetag of $1.65 million. (Before taxes, naturally.) The company itself has made no statement on the matter, but professional athletes and Russian mobsters might want to bring their checkbooks to Germany next month.

2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG

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Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG

A new gullwing sounds lovely--and sounds nothing like those Aston swan wings, correct? Correct. The 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG is a successor to the current Benz SLR roadster and former coupe. Inside a lightweight body, the SLS AMG will offer up a single powertrain, an evolution of today's big AMG V-8.That 6.2-liter V-8 is expected to produce about 565 horsepower in U.S. specification, along with 479 pound-feet of torque. Through a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, and rear-wheel drive, the SLS AMG is predicted to hit 60 mph from a standstill in about 3.8 seconds. We'll bring you the requisite car porn--photos, details--in advance of our first drive later this year.

2010 BMW 5-series Gran Turismo

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BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo

Its sloping tail has drawn comments on either side of the approval fence, and the 5-Series GT is not quite even in print yet. BMW promises lots of room and a flexible rear seating area in the GT, which comes to the U.S. with BMW's 4.4-liter twin-turbo V-8, with 400 horsepower and a new eight-speed automatic transmission. BMW promises 0-60 mph times of 5.4 seconds and a limited top speed of 130 mph, with a 150-mph top end on vehicles outfitted with a Sport package. There's Active Steering, Dynamic Damping Control, adaptive roll control and Driving Dynamics Control, to tailor the driving experience for different tastes. In back, the seats are raised, and move fore and aft on a track up to 4 inches, as passenger and cargo needs change. The tailgate opens as a conventional trunklid or as a large hatch, making cargo loading easier.

The configurator gives us a clue as to what color options will be available for the new Ghost

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Rolls-Royce Ghost: The new sedan--a Bentley Continental challenger--will be publicly unveiled. It's a British catfight! We haven't seen official pics of the Ghost yet, but it's pretty sure to look like this 200EX concept on the official R-R Web site. There, you can plan your colors and trims on your new Ghost before accessing all your home equity to actually pay for the thing. Big V-8 and V-12 engines are in the offing, along with an eight-speed automatic, coupe and convertible body styles, and a certain sense of privilege.

2011 Bentley Mulsanne

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2011 Bentley Mulsanne: Catfight Part II pits the 2011 Mulsanne right up against the dowager Rolls-Royce Phantom. Oh, yes--it's on. The Mulsanne gets a new architecture, a new V-8 engine, and probably a $300,000 base price. That's before you order the in-door drink carts, knurled aluminum dash, quilted seats, and before you order people around in that tone.

2010 Saab 9-5

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2010 Saab 9-5: GM's set to sell the brand to Koenigsegg, which makes the future of Saab uncertain in our eyes. However, they're insisting the 2010 9-5 four-door and wagon are coming. We'll confirm it live, with more info on the change of control.

2011 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Wagon: It's returning to America in E350 4Matic form, and with the E-Class Wagon, Mercedes is set to also show off an E-Class Cabriolet coming to America next year.

BMW X1: The new crossover is smaller than an X3, pricier than a Honda CR-V, and more adept at social media than lots of auto Web sites we know. We'll take a closer look and maybe drive one around the Frankfurt halls, if we can grab the keys from unsuspecting PR folks.

Audi R8 Spyder: The convertible version of Audi's sportscar shows up, possibly with V-10 power. Possibly with a crowd of followers, too--our photos will come when the coast is cleared of lithe men in pegged jeans and blue-framed glasses.

Lexus compact hatchback: A sporty small Lexus for Europe is on the way; we're taking bets on whether it's a Continental-ready Lexus HS 250h, or something entirely new and Audi A3-ish.

MINI Cooper Camden and Mayfair: It's MINI's 50th anniversary, and these two models will show up, just waiting for someone to take their picture. We'll volunteer, if it will keep Tyra Banks at bay.

Superlight Mazda MX-5 Miata: A race-minded version of the "Miata" (get over it) shows up in Frankfurt; is your track license up to date?

VW Polo: The new world subcompact takes a bow. Come 2011, it's coming to the U.S. to take on the Honda Fit and Ford Fiesta and Chevy Spark.

Latest Mercedes-Benz E-Class Sedan and Coupe launched in Singapore

2009-08-16T20:58:00.000+08:00

Cycle & Carriage has officially launched the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class Sedan and Coupe for the Singaporean market. Both the E300 CGI and E350 CGI are now available, and the dealer has confirmed that the E200 BlueEfficiency and the E250 BlueEfficiency will arrive at a later date. Also included, is the E500 variant as well. The high performance E63 AMG model with a 525HP V8 is also offered, but on indent basis.

Prices start with the E200 CGI at S$186,888 and goes up to S$262,888 for the E350 CGI. The 388HP E500 model carries a $349,888 price tag. Two trim levels are available including Elegance and Avantgarde. The E-Class Coupe range is made up by the 204HP E250 BlueEfficiency and the 292HP E350 BlueEfficiency. The former is priced at $212,888 while the latter can be yours for $277,888. All prices are inclusive of COE.

New Alfa Romeo 159 Limited Edition

2009-08-12T21:26:00.000+08:00

Car Review

Alfa Romeo Know the Diesel Power :

Alfa Romeo is the company that is specially known for the innovations and also some of the radical changes in the automotive industries. They are one of the leaders of the worldwide car makers. They do have the richest and most intellectual R&D staffs which is quite alert and responsive for the feed backs of the customers and also they are the most reactive persons to the complains of the users. They are said to be the pioneer of turbo diesel trend I Europe. Alfa Romeo has tried desperately to the innovation and expansion of the diesel engines and all of their cars are made by the diesel engines and almost all are quite successful.

The sales of this Italian Company are on the increasing mode even in this Recessional phase and they are making the most happening sales just because of the powerful turbo diesel engines. People have well understood the economical senses of turbo diesels and they are turning towards the change that Alfa Romeo has created globally!! All credit of company’s sales goes to the advanced diesel techniques and the innovative attitude of the engineering staffs.

In UK there are all Mercedes, Audi and BMW, but elsewhere the Alfa Romeo is making its way to a larger section. But, wisely thinking in the Slowdown, if we are getting Mercedes and all in £30,000, and the same stuffs and supremacy is available in just £22,000 why one should go for the expensive one? Just for the sake of name? Also, the Alfa Romeo is one of the best and reputed brand in the whole world as the Mercedes is!! The problem is not to save that £8,000 but it’s the question of mentality and attitude of us!! The time is demanding savings of even a single penny saved from absolutely anywhere and we are spending as much as £8,000 just because we deny changes in our lifestyles? Very strange!!

Alfa Romeo Features :

In all these pounds, you are getting the best quality facilities and some of the most technical magic that are almost unseen anywhere. This car is fully loaded with more than £3000 worth of gadgets that are having lowered suspension, red Brembo brake callipers, sports dials with red background, black leather upholstery, Carbonio black metallic paint and darkened 19″ spoke alloy wheels. Even if you imagine all these stuffs, you’ll be tempted enough to buy this ultra romantic car for sure!!

The 159 Limited Edition is definitely a limited addition car and its production is limited to just 250 examples, all these examples are powered by a 1.9 JTDM 150bhp Multijet diesel engine. There is also a ready-to-race James Bond Quantum of Solace Scalextric set for the kids, featuring the Aston Martin DBS and the Alfa 159 used by the negative roll players in the movie.

Alfa Romeo Know the Multijet engine :

It is better to know any stuff that we are buying. Even if it is a car, we should be aware of the knowledge making attitudes of being educated. The 159 Limited Engines offer the most special features of the Multijet Engine. Multijet Engine is the type where the injection pressure is independent of engine speed and can be varied throughout the rev range, irrespective of the amount of diesel being delivered. This pressure makes the combustion easier which ultimately results in the larger benefits for both performance and economy. The rest to sixty sprints takes just over 9 seconds on the way to 130mph. The pulling power of this engine is exclusively splendid. Seeing the Multijet feature only, you would be definitely appraised the stuff that, “The 159 Limited Edition is one of the most romantic cars with all the features that make anyone seduced towards him.”

Suppose if you are not going for the diesel engines style and you want to stick to the traditional petrol engines, there are also such options available. The power point of diesel gets its stuff started at 1,500rpm and is all over by 4,500rpm.Frankly speaking, you won’t fine it as lovely as JTS zing that is available in the diesel engines. Even you can find the same procedure with any of the simpler car, what’s the meaning of going for the Alfa car? Therefore we say that the diesel engines are the most preserved gift of Alfa Romeo to the world and only these engines can give you the most pleasure moments of your life!!

Alfa Romeo Performance :

If you’ve seen the 156 model of Alfa Romeo, you’ll be impressed lesser with the 159 as there are no major changes in both these cars. 159 has selected to go in the direction where the 156 has gone and also they have maintain all the good features of the 156 and have just added styling factor to the previous model. Just like 156, even the 159 is the same expert driver of the overtaking facility and also it has a great reactivity to the rivals of the same category like Mercedes, Audi and BMW. Experts say that this 159 limited edition is far better in some of the even best features of BMW. So, if you are crazy of the speed driving or even a safer driving, the 159 Alfa is the most suitable option for you!! Among the competitors, the Alfa Romeo 159 can be the best option for the BMW 3 Series, Spots Saloon, top-end Honda Accords and also of Saab 9-3s.

Summary :

Over all, this car has all the features that can suit the best car category and also some of the advanced techniques like automatic gearbox and also the Multijet engines, the car have become the hot cake item for the car lovers. Are you the lover of the car? Not yet? Read this article again!!

Mitsubishi Outlander 2009 India is now BS IV compliant

2009-08-11T23:05:00.000+08:00

Bharat stage IV emission regulations will come into existence in 11 Indian cities including Mumbai ,Delhi , Bangalore and Chennai by the beginning of year 2010 .Mitsubishi’s new Outlander 2009 is already BS IV compliant ,and is first Indian premium SUV to achieve this level of emission control .Innovative valve lift and timing electronic control of 2.4 litre 4 cylinder 168 bhp petrol engine in Mitsubishi Outlander 2009 helped it to gain the label of first Eco friendly SUV in India . Mitsubishi Outlander was first brought to Indian market in 2008 . This SUV is built in Lancer platform and has already got critical acclimation for ts offroading capabilities power ,riding comfort and handling .

Mitsubishi Outlander 2009 design

Parallelogram shaped head lamps ,simple yet elegant front grill ,skid plate as found in popular off-roaders , mesh grills just above skid plate etc.gives it distinction from other competing SUVs . Contrasting silver color in door handles really matches with that of alloy wheels .Mitsubishi Outlander 2009 has a special dicky design that when dicky is lifted up ,the bumper portion moves down . This improves the available dicky space and make it easy to load luggage . Power operated front seats gives good support .Flattened and thick back seats are positioned to lower level . Though slightly affect the visibility ,it provide good comfort and feel .

Dashboard design in Outlander 2009 is very simple .Major feature that worth mention is a Rockford fosgate music system .A sub-woofer positioned at the dicky is the main part of this music system .Starting needs only to rotate the knob near steering column . Key less entry is another feature in Mitsubishi Outlander .It will automatically unlock the door panels on pressing the small rubber knob near handle ,provided you have the key .

Mitsubishi Outlander 2009 engine :

Outlander uses 2360 cc , 167 bhp ,4 cylinder petrol engine with Mitsubishi’s variable valve timing technology MIVEC ,This engine is connected to a CVT ( continuously variable transmission )gearbox .CVT assigns gear ratios automatically when the vehicles is started . There is a small delay in response due to this automatic selection . After this the engine will start cruise with its full potential .

Mitsubishi Outlander 2009 driving:

Handling and ride quality of Mitsubishi Outlander 2009 is excellent just like Lancer which shares it platform. Steering is very sensitive and give good response . Good suspension adds to stability and total control of the drive .So in overall this Indian version Mitsubishi Outlander 2009 is suited for people looking for an SUV with off -roading capabilities ,power and only an automatic gear box .

Mitsubishi Outlander 2009

Mitsubishi Outlander 2009 technical specifications :

Engine : 2.0L 16 Valve MIVEC
Displacement :2360CC
Power :170ps@6000rpm
Torque: 226NM@4100 rpm
Transmission 6 speed CVT
Brakes: Front Ventilated disc .Rear Drums in disc
Suspension: McPherson strut Coil spring with stabilizer bar .Multi-link Coil spring with stabilizer bar .

Mitsubishi Outlander 2009 priced 20.77 lakhs ( ex-showroom Delhi)