cyber cafe

Digital Photography Secrets

2010-08-08T20:56:00.000+08:00

Don't take another digital picture until you read this book! Someone has finally gotten into the "secret files" of top photographers and is sharing the information for the first time ever!

"Finally! There's a Fast, Easy, Affordable Way To Access Professional Picture-Taking Secrets And Capture The Best Digital Images Of Your Life!!!"

Digital Photography Secrets

by David Peterson

For full details click here

A Book To Instantly Transform The
Quality of Your Digital Photographs

August 8, 2010

From the desk of David Peterson, Author and Digital Camera Buff
Hello!
My name is David Peterson. Photography is my passion and I'm excited to have a chance to share that passion with you… along with a new book that I believe can instantly transform you into a better photographer.
I’ve been a photographer using film cameras since I was a little kid. When I bought my first digital camera, I excitedly opened the box and started taking lots of images. Eagerly, I transferred my first photos to my computer and printed them.
Needless to say I was very disappointed with the results. They didn’t look like the professional photos that I saw every day in magazines. My camera was expensive enough, why didn’t my pictures look a million dollars?
All the easy way to make you success

It turns out there was a very simple answer.

I didn’t know the secrets the professionals use every day to ensure their images look stunning each and every time. I found this out when a professional photographer friend of mine took me aside one day and told me the secrets he used.
I tried them all out and discovered that my images were MUCH, MUCH better. Not quite at the professional stage, but looking really good.
There's something you should know about me. I'm the kind of guy who likes to help out others. When I know about a great movie, a great bargain, or a great strategy for taking a picture, I want to share it with other people.
This book is the result of that philosophy.
I realized that not everyone was as lucky as me; not everyone has a friend who's a professional photographer. So, to "level" the picture-taking playing field, I decided to write a book myself on...

Everything the professionals know, but don’t want you to know about
using your digital camera to take stunning photos

This book covers everything you need to know to take stunning photos with your digital camera. It’s like having your very own professional photographer that you can reference any time you need to.

You will get everything you need

How does cellular surveillance work

2010-07-06T07:03:00.000+08:00

Wireless cell phone video security solution is here adding a sense of private protection and safety it offers you real-time video monitoring.

This technology utilizes the most powerful software applications for remotely monitoring from ANYWHERE in the world.
This is a solution that will turn any standard cell phone into a high end surveillance device.
The surveillance system brings video from video source such as USB or IP Webcam to your cell phone. It contains both the client and server software.

You can view your room, business, babysitter, parents, pets, etc.

You can view live images from your cameras on mobile phone via any kind of internet connection from any location in the world. In case of invasion, a real picture helps prevent false siren and cancel police dispatches to avoid the fines.
Enjoy the independence of viewing all your cameras on mobile phone anytime and from everywhere with just the click of a button.

How does cellular surveillance work:

You attach your camera (USB, IP camera, or Camcoder) to your home computer and install the software.
The application captures video and sound from camera and sends it, as compressed media stream, to web server.
You login to this Web server from your mobile phone and watch your webcam.
No particular application for your mobile phone is necessary.
All about cellular video surveillance.

Sony HDR-FX1000 High Definition MiniDV Handycam Camcorder

2009-12-13T09:47:00.000+08:00

Sony HDR-FX1000 High Definition MiniDV Handycam Camcorder

Sony HDR-FX1000 High Definition MiniDV Handycam Camcorder with the HDR-FX1000 high definition MiniDV Handycam camcorder. Equipped with 24p progressive scan mode, you’ll experience high-quality, film-like motion for brilliant scene reproduction while CinemaTone Gamma and CinemaTone Color provide the color and gamma range to give your footage an amazing film-like feel. It also features three 1/3-inch ClearVid CMOS image sensors with Exmor derived technology which let you capture sharp, detailed images even in lower-light situations. Take control of light in extreme settings with three built-in neutral density filters and three manual rings for adjusting zoom, focus and iris. Plus, the 3.2″ Xtra Fine LCD and Optical SteadyShot image stabilization give you an unparalleled recording experience.

Features

Experience high-quality, film-like motion with 24p progressive scan mode
CinemaTone Gamma and CinemaTone Color give your footage a film-like aesthetic
Features three 1/3-inch ClearVid CMOS image sensors with Exmor derived technology
Includes a 29.5mm wide-angle to 590mm telephoto G-lens with 20X optical zoom
Also comes with 3.2-inch Xtra Fine LCD and Optical SteadyShot image stabilization

G Lens: 29.5mm Wide-Angle to 590mm (20x) Telephoto
The HDR-FX1000 is equipped with a 29.5mm wide-angle ‘G Lens’ made from advanced 10 group, 15 element lens including ‘Extra-low Dispersion glass’ which reduces chromatic aberration caused by light refraction, and produces video with extremely low color fringing. Designed for shooting situations ranging from broad landscape shots to conditions where sufficient distance from the subject is difficult to obtain. The 20x optical zoom (29.5mm-590mm: 35mm conversion) lets you zoom in to the subjects you can’t get close to. The optical zoom takes maximum advantage of the lens performance, so image quality does not suffer even at a zoom ratio of 20x, allowing you to faithfully reproduce the subject’s impact. The digital extender increases zoom by 1.5 throughout the range up to 30x at full zoom.

Kareena kapoor endorses Size Zero laptops

2009-11-07T20:52:00.001+08:00

Kareena Kapoor did what no other Bollywood actress had done before when she got a perfect Size Zero figure for her otherwise flop movie Tashan. Now the actress will be endorsing Size Zero laptops. Japanese electronics giant Sony had signed her up to endorse its ultra slim range of laptops. Sony had conducted a poll asking whom they should choose as the brand ambassador to launch their new size zero laptops and it was Kareena all the way.

Kareena was expected to shoot for Sony in Berlin and Paris but because of her hectic schedule a set of a European tube train was made in Mumbai where finally the ad campaign was shot. Kareena is the first Indian Indian to be the ambassador of this brand. Earlier Hollywood celebrity like Britney Spears used to be the Brand Ambassador for Sony. Recently she had endorsed a low calorie size zero pizza for an international pizza chain

HP Envy 15 – Notebook Review

2009-10-30T22:58:00.001+08:00

The Hewlett-Packard Envy 15 series is the personification of a personal computer put into the chassis and size of a portable notebook. Like its name suggests, the HP Envy would be the envy of those that see you use the product. With a price tag of more than $1,000, the HP Envy 15 has to do more for the user.

The Envy 15 is a very powerful beast to begin with, with a 1.6GHz Intel Core processor, and the capability of accommodating up to 16-gigabytes of random access memory space. With a Windows 7 operating system working behind the scenes, there should be much that one can do with the Envy 15 notebook.

The Envy 15 is very much capable of doing things that a more powerful PC unit can do. For example, it has extensive network connectivity capabilities. You can use it as a home server, for example, to link up any existing computers in the house to further its file and data sharing capabilities.

Specs

SPECS	AVAILABLE OPTIONS
CPU	Intel(R) Core(TM) i7-720QM Processor (1.6GHz, 6MB L2 Cache, 1333MHz FSB) Intel(R) Core(TM) i7-820QM Processor (1.73GHz, 8MB L2 Cache, 1333MHz FSB)
RAM	6GB-16GB DDR3
Screen Size	15.6″ diagonal Full High Definition LED HP Ultra Brightview Widescreen Display (1920×1080) 15.6″ diagonal High Definition LED HP Brightview Widescreen Display (1366×768)
Operating System	Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit, Professional 64-bit
Battery Life	7.25 hours (manufacturer’s estimate)
Graphics	Mobile Intel® Graphics Media Accelerator X4500MHD 256 MB NVIDIA® GeForce 9300M GS Graphic Card

Pros

The best thing about an HP Envy 15 unit is that it is fully expandable just like a PC. When you need something new or an upgrade to improve its capabilities to suit your requirements, Hewlett-Packard will certainly be able to customize your Envy 15 for you.

Of course, there is also the exceptionally large screen. Fully high-definition viewing can be enjoyed with the HP Envy 15. Unlike most laptops or notebooks, HP has endowed the Envy 15 with a pleasant 15.6-inch screen. You can now easily view movies, read documents and edit photos with more attention to detail than ever before.

The HD experience can be taken even farther thanks to the capability of the Envy 15 to connect to an outside output device. Because of that you can use the Envy 15 to watch HD-quality videos on a real HDTV, or in an equally sized computer monitor.

Cons

Heat is an issue in using the Envy 15, however. It has been observed that the computer will heat up even when it is not actually in use. This means that even in idle mode, it will still warm up to 40 degrees Celsius.

Conclusion

Because of its heating issues, the Envy 15 may not be ideal for users like hardcore gamers to use. On the other hand, moderate users will certainly appreciate the features of this notebook. Nevertheless, the heating can be addressed by installing a cooler pad.

Despite that, however, the Envy 15 is certainly worth the price thanks to the top-notch specifications and features of this HP laptop.

Toshiba launches ultra-slim laptops

2009-10-20T20:16:00.000+08:00

Toshiba unveiled its new ultra-slim range of laptops- Satellite T110 and Satellite T130 - which boasts of a thrilling combination of very light weight, true portability and great performance.

The new models are the latest additions to Toshiba's ultraportable laptop range and allow for content consumption and also creation, while on the move.

"The exceptional battery life of both devices reaches more than a working day without the need to recharge. The 11.6'' (29.5 cm) Satellite T110 and 13.3'' (33.8 cm) Satellite T130 will be available during 4th quarter 2009 throughout Europe, Middle East and Africa," said Santosh Varghese, regional general manager, Computer Systems Division for Toshiba Gulf.

"Our new ultra-slim laptops now bridge the gap between small mini-notebooks like our Mini NB200, which are optimised for content consumption, and full performance ultra-mobile laptops like our Satellite U500," he added.-TradeArabia News Service

Fujitsu Amilo Pi 3560 and Pi 3660 Laptops

2009-10-15T05:05:00.000+08:00

Fujitsu reveal its two new Amilo Pi laptop series dubbed Amilo Pi 3560 and 3660. Amilo Pi 3560 is a 15.6 inch laptop but the 16″ version also offered. Amilo Pi 3560 jam packed with feastures like NVIDIA GeForce GT 240M graphics card, 1GB RAM and spill-proof keyboard. Its BrilliantView display has 16:9 format.

Fujitsu Amilo Pi 3660 packs the same specs with Pi 3560 but offer 18.4″ widescreen display. No mention of their prices yet.

Samsung unveils dual LCD digital cameras

2009-10-09T23:02:00.000+08:00

Samsung Electronics has unveiled its ST550 and ST500 cameras with key features including dual LCD screens (on front and back).

With one LCD on the front of the camera, and a second one on the back of the camera, Samsung now gives consumers the ability to truly step out from behind the camera and put themselves in the picture, said a company statement.

Twice the fun as any other compact digital camera, Samsung’s innovative ST550 and ST500 both feature a 1.5” LCD located on the front of the camera allowing consumers to take first-rate photos whether they are behind the camera or in front of it.

Samsung’s new ST550 also features a 3.5” wide touch-screen back LCD. At 1,152K resolution, the ST550’s LCD delivers almost four times more resolution than traditional cameras and also comes complete with haptic vibration feedback for ease of use, the statement said.

A 12.2 mega-pixel CCD and 27mm wide-angle Schneider-KREUZNACH lens with 4.6x optical zoom gives a wider shooting range from a shorter distance producing clear, clean images with balanced resolution from the center of the image to the edges.

“We’ve listened to what consumers want and need, particularly in the social networking field, and I expect these latest products to surpass even the highest expectations of today’s budding photographer, guaranteeing fun and excitement to the user,” said Ram Modak, general manager, Digital Media Business, Samsung Gulf Electronics.

'It has become more common for the photographer to switch roles and become the subject of his or her photo, especially given the rise in popularity of self-portraits or profile pictures for use with today’s popular social networking sites,' he noted.

'The Dual LCD on the ST550 and ST500 allows consumers to become part of the picture in a way that they simply were unable to do so before. These cameras will be must-haves for those individuals that use popular social networking websites and for families that want to get everyone, including the photographer, in the picture,' he added.

Showcasing further innovations, Samsung’s Smart Gesture User Interface (UI) with built-in Gravity sensor means that once the camera is on, a simple tap on the front LCD turns it on and the camera is automatically set into self portrait mode with smile detection, Modak explained.

'This means if users want to take a self portrait, they only need to tap and smile and the picture will be taken automatically, without pressing the shutter button. Teamed with innovative Samsung technologies such as Smile Shot, Smart Face Recognition and Smart Auto, users are given the ability to take the perfect image with ease,' he added.

Olympus EP-1 "PEN" Camera: Hands-On Review

2009-10-06T06:08:00.000+08:00

Addressing the growing market for a smaller camera with professional features, Olympus recently introduced the compact, lightweight Micro Four Thirds EP-1 a.k.a. "PEN" digital camera. I never go anywhere without a camera, but schlepping the bulky DSLR is not always convenient and my iPhone camera quality isn't always acceptable. Interchangeable lenses, a range of in-camera filters and the option to use full manual settings lend the beautifully-designed stainless steel shooter a wealth of creative options.

High-tech features include sophisticated light metering, image stabilization, dust reduction and leveling assistance to help get the best shot possible. Of course, there's full manual control and RAW image recording to satisfy the demands of a pro. In addition to capturing stills it also records HD video for those moments better served by moving pictures. The only thing the EP-1 lacks is a built-in flash, but Olympus offers a range of flash units that are all controllable from the EP-1's software.

In the short time since its release the EP-1 has become very highly regarded among pros and consumers alike. After using one recently I totally understand why—it makes for a fun, versatile camera that takes gorgeous pics. Check out some of my sample shots below from recent travels in France, Italy and Vermont.

Nikon D3s with 1080p video rumored for release next month

2009-10-01T12:39:00.000+08:00

This sort of burst out of nowhere today, but word is that a new Nikon D3s will hit on October 15 -- the crew at NikonRumors puts it at "99 percent probability." The D3s is expected to add 1080p video and an 14fps burst mode to the D3, as well as a 1.6x crop mode, but other than that we don't know too much. We'll keep you updated, it looks like the leaks are coming fast and furious.

Sony HDR-FX7 3-CMOS Sensor HDV High-Definition Handycam Camcorder

2009-09-25T03:59:00.000+08:00

Sep.24, 2009 in Digital camera

Review Sony HDR-FX7 3-CMOS Sensor HDV High-Definition Handycam Camcorder with the HDR-FX7 High Definition Handycam(R) camcorder. Capture amazing video and still images in high definition with the first HDV 1080i 3 CMOS sensor consumer-level camcorder and player in the world. The three – 1/4″ ClearVID CMOS Sensors provide stunning detail and precision, while a 20x Optical Zoom Carl Zeiss Lens maintains image clarity.

Since the HDR-FX7 records video in high-definition, you can dual record still images at the same time. So no matter what the occasion, the HDR-FX7 is the perfect camcorder for the situation. A Sony developed Real Time MPEG Encode/Decode system with reduced energy consumption and compact size to fit inside a personal camcorder. This provides efficient MPEG2 compression, and recording and playback of clear HD images at the same bit rate of the DV format, so that High Definition video can be recorded on the same cassettes as are used for MiniDV recording.

From the authority in lens technology, the Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T lens provides a high-quality 20x optical zoom which maintains image clarity and color while reducing glare and flare. Dual independent zoom and focus rings provide precise and detailed control over the amount of zoom and the overall focus of the image with just a turn of the rings. Fast, intuitive framing when zooming, and finely detailed focusing is easy with the natural “feel” of the rings. Easily adjust the amount of light entering the lens by adjusting exposure brightness in accordance with the iris and gain.

The Iris control allows the volume of light to be adjusted (shutter speed and gain are adjustable). Though not small enough to carry with you to Disney, this camcorder opens up new opportunities for serious amateur and semi-professionals to record videos suitable for play on new widescreen HDTV sets. An IEEE1394 iLink port is provided for easy transfer to a PC or Macintosh for professional editing applications.

High definition in your hands

2009-09-19T03:01:00.000+08:00

The Sony Handycam HDR-XR520 is a feature-packed premium video camcorder that records in glorious high definition.

THE Handycam HDR-XR520 is Sony’s latest video camcorder to sport the shiny Full HD (High Definition) label. Aimed at users who want to capture their special moments in glorious HD, the XR520 is indeed a serious camcorder that means business.

Decked in black, the XR520 is a sleek looking camcorder that certainly will turn heads. Given that the XR520 is Sony’s top of the line camcorder, it is a solidly constructed camcorder that looks both solid and durable.

While it is rather big and hefty in comparison with other camcorders, we could still fit it into a camera bag with room to spare.

At the front is the camcorder’s long-reaching 12x optical zoom lens which has the focal range of 43mm-516mm (35mm equivalent) in 16:9 aspect ratio and 52mm-624mm when recording in a 4:3 aspect ratio.

The lens offers a diverse range that gives users great flexibility for a variety of situations from filming both close to far away subjects.

While it doesn’t have a very wide angle for capturing better indoor shots, the excellent zoom range more than makes up for this. We can’t argue that the camcorder’s autofocus speed is lightning fast, snapping things into focus almost instantly even in low light situations.

That said, the XR520’s optical image stabiliser really helped in keeping our footage steady when we had to zoom in on far away subjects.

The XR520 is also Sony’s first camcorder to use the new Exmor-R CMOS sensor that is said to improve the camcorder’s low light performance.

It has a generously large 3.2in LCD touchscreen that serves as your main viewfinder. The screen shows off excellent detailed images that makes it easier to inspect images as you are recording and the ability to twist the screen at different angles makes both high and low angle shots easy to pull off.

Most of the camcorder’s settings are controlled using the LCD touchscreen, leaving relatively few physical buttons on the outside to control its functions.

While this does simplify the controls on the camcorder, it takes several additional button presses and a lot of patience to navigate through the rows of menus. It certainly isn’t the best user interface we could have hoped for but it gets the job done once you are familiar with it.

We found the small electronic viewfinder more of a novelty than a practical feature as it was far too small for any real use. In addition, you have no way to interact with the camcorder or change settings while in this mode.

CHOICES GALORE: Most of the settings are accessed by the camcorder's 3in LCD touchscreen.

Features

Being a full HD-capable camcorder, the XR520 can record videos at an astounding 1,920 x 1,080-pixel resolution. However given that HD quality videos typically take up a lot of storage, you would probably be a little concerned about how much available memory you’re carrying.

Thankfully, you also have the option of recording in standard definition in MPEG2 video format.

In any case, the XR520 has a large 240GB built-in hard disk that provides more than enough storage space to hold all your videos.

Still, despite the large hard disk you’re still subjected to the limits of the camcorder’s battery life — it can last roughly up to an hour of recording.

Additionally, the camcorder supports Memory Stick Pro Duo memory cards for extra storage in the unlikely event you should run out of space on the internal hard disk.

Without a doubt, the difference in terms of both quality and clarity of videos is immediately evident. There’s definitely a wealth of detail to be found in the HD videos and the video quality was unbelievably sharp and silky smooth even when subjects were in motion.

Even the sound quality of recordings was notably very good with stereo surround sound available during playback.

The lack of any manual recording modes such as Shutter or Aperture priority may disappoint users who want to be more creative with their video recordings. However if you don’t mind letting the camera do most of the work, you’ll find the automatic modes quite effective at delivering quality videos.

EASY OPERATION: The HDR-XR520 is very easy to use with most of the necessary operational buttons lined up on the back of the camcorder.

One small consolation though is a small dial tucked underneath the lens that can be used for manual focusing. Here users can easily alternate between manual and auto modes with a press of a button.

Just note that turning to adjust the focus using the dial makes the camera unsteady.

Very often we needed to brace ourselves against something to steady the camera while manually focusing. That said, the ideal situation would be use a tripod for smoother manual focusing.

Performance

Leaving the camcorder on automatic mode yielded surprisingly good results when recording out in broad daylight. Videos looked remarkably true to life with accurate colour reproduction and motion was silky smooth. We can forsee this being a good camcorder to have if you’re recording an event like an outdoor birthday party or a child’s sports day at school.

We were also impressed by the high quality audio recording from videos with added stereo surround sound — the sound was remarkably clear during playback.

There’s also a Smooth Slow Record mode that basically takes a short 11 second slow motion video, which is great for capturing fast motion like a balloon bursting. The drawback, however, is you are limited to capturing only 11 seconds, nothing more or less.

We were also impressed with the camera’s low-light mode which made indoor scenes reasonably brighter and more visible. Despite the evidence of noise, the videos remained relatively sharp with decent contrast.

In addition to taking great looking videos, the XR520 has a 12-megapixel still picture mode. It takes pretty decent photos that’s on par with a high-end compact camera and the built-in flash works just right for lighting up close subjects.

Unfortunately the camcorder’s camera didn’t perform so well when it came to capturing shots in low light conditions. Images exhibited lots of noise in dark areas and high amounts of noise reduction that blurred out much of the details.

Software support

The included PMB software does most of the transferring and management of your digital videos on your computer. It is a fairly basic and standard program that does a decent job at managing your files, allowing you to arrange them by date, scene and even people via its neat facial recognition feature.

Facial recognition allows you to easily identify people in videos and sort videos out by scenery, people and even by their smiles. However, the feature doesn’t always work particularly well if the video is moving too fast or people aren’t facing the camera directly.

Additionally, PMB offers the option of exporting your videos to other mediums such as burning them onto discs or sharing them online via e-mail or uploading them to an online service of your choosing, be it YouTube or Flickr.

One major downside to the software is that it is for the PC only, leaving Mac users out in the cold. It would’ve been great if Sony included a Mac version of the software.

Also there isn’t much else you can do with the software. The only form of creative freedom you have with it is trimming videos.

There are no video-editing functions that allow you splice together a quick and simple video even.

Conclusion

The Sony XR520 offers a lot of different features that will prove invaluable to the budding videographer. Its expansive 240GB hard disk is great for holding a vast amount of video data so you won’t ever need to pop in a disc or memory card in between recordings.

The long 12x optical zoom is another useful feature that gives you lots of flexibility with your shots. The optical stabilisation does help too and the video quality is crisp as the movements are smooth.

It isn’t half bad when it comes to taking pictures either — just avoid doing so in low light conditions.

A few things do undermine the XR520 — such as the LCD touchscreen’s user interface which forces you to click through rows of menus to reach the desired settings. Also, the manual focus dial isn’t easy to use when you’re doing handheld recording.

At RM5,299, the XR520 may also be a little out of reach for first time video users who may want to consider a cheaper alternative.

Still, if you have the budget for a high-end camcorder that’s great for general purpose video recording, the Sony Handycam HDR-XR520 is certainly worth a look.

Pros: Good video quality; large storage size; 12x optical zoom.

Cons: PMB software is for the PC only; poor still photos in low light conditions; no creative recording modes.

HANDYCAM HDR-XR520

(Sony)
High definition video camcorder
Sensor: Exmor R CMOS
Lens: Sony G Lens 43-516mm (35mm equivalent) 16:9 aspect ratio and 52-624mm (4:3)
Recording format: AVCHD (HD), MPEG2 (standard definition)
Viewfinder: 3.2in external LCD touchscreen
Storage: 240GB HDD, Memory Stick Pro Duo Connectivity: USB 2.0, HDMI
Other features: Optical image stabilisation, Smooth Slow Rec, face detection, smile shutter
Dimensions: 71 x 75 x 134mm (w x h x d)
Weight: 500g
Price: RM5,299
Review unit courtesy of Sony Malaysia Sdn Bhd. For more information, call Sony Customer Interaction Centre, 1-300-88-1233.

JVC Launches New HD Everio Memory Camera For Video Enthusiasts

2009-09-17T05:09:00.002+08:00

New HD Everio GZ-HM400 offers Full HD, 9 MP stills and slow motion.

WAYNE, NJ, September 14, 2009 – JVC today announced a new video camera that offers the performance, features and handling demanded by video enthusiasts. The new JVC HD Everio GZ-HM400, available immediately, emphasizes image quality and usability in a design that videographers will find allows comfortable extended use.

The HD Everio GZ-HM400, which records to an SD/SDHC card and includes 32GB of internal memory, features a 10.3-megapixel CMOS sensor that delivers nine-megapixel still images and 1080 TV lines of horizontal resolution for Full HD video. High-speed recording of up to 600fps is also possible for slow-motion playback of sports and other fast action. The camera’s features are easily accessible through an intuitive user interface that features analog-like dial adjustment and direct-access buttons.

The core image sensing device for this camera is a 1/2.33-inch 10.3-megapixel CMOS sensor with Bayer Array RGB Color Filter. This translates into obvious advantages in digital still photography, as nine-megapixel stills are possible without any need for interpolation.

For video, the high-speed image processing of 5.3 million effective pixels applied by the HD Gigabrid Premium II Engine’s super high-band processor results in 1080 TV lines of horizontal resolution — the theoretical maximum level of 1920 x 1080 Full HD. What’s more, the 24 Mbps recording capability of this engine (UXP mode) — the highest bit rate possible for AVCHD video — delivers detailed images with fluid motion.

Optically, the GZ-HM400 features a KONICA MINOLTA HD LENS that provides a high-resolution image source. But perhaps more noteworthy is the JVC-developed optical image stabilizer that uses two active prisms to correct camera shake at the lens entrance before the image enters the lens. The two prisms, compensating in the horizontal and vertical directions, provide the same effectiveness throughout the entire zoom range, from wide to telephoto.

On the top of the camera are three buttons, “A”, “S” and “U”, for selecting shooting modes. “A” selects the Aperture Priority Setting, “S” is for selecting the shutter speed, and “U” is User-Assignable, which lets users assign their own frequently used settings to this button. Positioned next to the lens barrel are controls for manual brightness and focus adjustment; just tilt a lever switch to select either brightness or focus, then turn the manual adjustment dial in the direction desired. This “analog” type control provides more intuitive operation and allows fine-tuning of both settings. What’s more, when used in conjunction with the SET button, this same dial allows easy setting of various other functions with menu-free simplicity.

Zoom is controlled by a seesaw-style zoom lever, which provides smooth zooming. The body is sculpted to offer a sure-grip contour, and size-balanced to afford extended operation with reduced fatigue.

Three different high-speed recording modes are available for slow-motion video playback: 600fps, 300fps and 120fps. For instance, at 600fps, motion occurring over a mere 2.4 seconds is slowed down to 24 seconds (10 times as long), enabling the user to capture crucial moments that are not visible to the naked eye. This function can be used as an effective tool for sport technique analysis, nature studies, and much more.

For still image shooting, up to 60fps 5.3-megapixel stills can be shot in a continuous burst of up to 11 images. Or, if preferred, continuous shooting of up to six nine-megapixel stills at up to 15fps is also possible. It is also possible to shoot 5.3-megapixel stills simultaneously while recording 1920 x 1080 Full HD video.

JVC’s K2 Technology, a proven technology in the audio field that restores fine sound details that are lost during compression, has been incorporated for the first time in a camera.

Other noteworthy features of the GZ-HM400 include Face Detection technology that identifies up to 16 faces to accurately adjust the focus and exposure, as well as One Touch Upload to YouTube™ and the One Touch Export function to easily export videos and stills to an iTunes® Library.

In addition to the SHARE STATION DVD Burner that allows easy AVCHD DVD burning without using a PC, this year JVC offers a new option for playback and enjoyment of GZ-HM400’s recordings. The new CU-VS100 HD Media Player plays back AVCHD video saved on an SD card, with double slots for uninterrupted playback from two cards. HDMI connection to an HDTV assures maximum quality enjoyment without complicated wiring.

PC users will appreciate the GZ-HM400’s Everio MediaBrowser, a single application for everything from simple editing to file playback and management.

The JVC HD Everio GZ-HM400 is available immediately at a nationally advertised value of $999.95.

About JVC U.S.A.
JVC U.S.A., headquartered in Wayne, New Jersey, is a division of JVC Americas Corp., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Victor Company of Japan Ltd. JVC distributes a complete line of video and audio equipment for the consumer and professional markets. For further product information, visit JVC’s Web site at http://www.jvc.com or call 1-800-526-5308.

Specifications – JVC Everio GZ-HM400

Format

Video

Video: [AVCHD] MPEG-4 AVC/H.264, Audio: Dolby Digital (2ch)

Stills

JPEG

Storage Media

32GB Internal Memory

SD/SDHC Memory Card (not supplied)

Image Sensor

1/2.33” CMOS, 10.3 Megapixel

Lens

KONICA MINOLTA HD LENS

Zoom Ratio

10x Optical / 15x Dynamic / 200x Digital (max.)

Video Recording Modes

UXP: 1920x1080i, Avg. 24Mbps (VBR)

XP: 1920x1080i, Avg. 17Mbps (VBR)

SP: 1920x1080i, Avg. 12Mbps (VBR)

EP: 1920x1080i, Avg. 5Mbps (VBR)

Still Image Sizes

4:3

3456x2592 / 3072x2304 / 2592x1944 / 1600x1200 / 640x480

16:9

3456x1944 / 3072x1728 / 2592x1456 / 1920x1080 / 1280x720

LCD Monitor

2.8” 207K-pixel Color LCD

Interfaces

HDMITM Out (mini), AV Out, Component Video Out, USB 2.0/1.1, Headphone Out, Microphone In, SD/SDHC Card Slot, DC In

Power Consumption

4.0W

Dimensions

(W x H x D)

Without battery

2-11/16” x 2-7/8” x 5-3/8” (67mm x 72mm x 135mm)

With battery

2-11/16” x 2-7/8” x 5-9/16” (67mm x 72mm x 141mm)

Weight

Without battery

0.89lbs (400g)

With battery

1.1lbs (485g)

Available video recording times

Rec Modes

Internal Memory

SDHC Card

32GB

32GB

16GB

8GB

UXP

2hr 56min

2hr 40min

1hr 20min

40min

XP

4hr 9min

4hr

2hr

1hr

SP

5hr 53min

5hr 52min

2hr 56min

1hr 28min

EP

14hr 44min

14hr 40min

7hr 20min

3hr 40min

Number of storable still images

Image Sizes

Internal Memory

SDHC Card

32GB

32GB

16GB

8GB

4GB

4:3

3456x2592 (Fine)

7730

7810

3860

1930

960

16:9

3456x1944 (Fine)

9999

9999

5180

2570

1270

Software System Requirements (Windows®)

OS: Microsoft® Windows® XP Home Edition (SP2/SP3)/XP Professional (SP2/SP3) (pre-installed). It must be equipped with a standard USB2.0 interface.

Microsoft® Windows Vista® Home Basic or SP1/Home Premium or SP1 (32-bit edition, pre-installed)

CPU: Intel® Core™ Duo, at least 1.66GHz

Intel® Core™ 2 Duo, at least 2.13GHz recommended

RAM: Windows® XP: At least 1GB

Windows Vista®: At least 2GB

Sony Ericsson C903 enters Indian market

2009-09-14T21:51:00.000+08:00

Mumbai: The new mobile phone Sony Ericsson C903 will enter the Indian market declared the electronic giant Sony itself. The phone is available at Rs.18,850, giving the buyers more options to buy from Sony Cybershot series.

sony-ericsson-c903-enters-indian-market

The Sony Ericsson C903 has a 5 megapixel camera with enhanced features of the cybetshot range like Smile Shutter, Face Detection, Active lens cover, Best Pictures. To add to the feature list, the new phone also has the ‘The photo Fix’ function that helps the camera automatically adjust light balance, brightness and contrast simultaneously for optimal results.

The use can use the social networking site Facebook application and share pictures with family and friends via this phone. It also allows the user to update their online status and receive updates as well on Facebook. Another significant usage of this handset is that it supports video and image uploads to YouTube and Picasa.

The striking and rather interesting feature is the SMS function of this phone. It displays sent and received messages together; like a single unbroken chat conversation.

The C903 gets support for Snapfish service, a web-based photo sharing and photo printing service currently owned by Hewlett-Packard that allows users to order for printouts of photographs that are delivered directly to the doorsteps.

Digital marketing experts share best practice tips and case studies at Econsultancy's Online Marketing Masterclasses 2009

2009-09-12T06:02:00.001+08:00

Advertising News:

Speakers and panellists are announced for Econsultancy's annual Online Marketing Masterclasses conference, having been selected for having made a measurable impact on their organisation’s success.

Taking place in London on 18 November 2009, the conference provides senior digital marketing professionals with the opportunity to learn about best practice online marketing across the customer acquisition, conversion and retention cycle.

This year's speakers include:
Andy Hobsbawm and James Alexander of Dothegreenthing.com haven’t spent a penny on marketing, but their videos have been viewed over 2.1 million times, and have helped people from 196 countries save over 6 million kg of carbon dioxide since launch in October 2007.

Guy Stephens, Customer Knowledge Manager, of Carphone Warehouse has pioneered the use of social media for customer service. He manages two Twitter accounts (@guyatcarphone, @cpwhelp), blogs, LinkedIn group, Facebook, YouTube videos and podcasts, and blogs at wireblog.wordpress.com.

Katie Smith is overseeing the relaunch of Macmillan Cancer Support’s online services which reach 8 million users each year. Katie, now Head of Digital Media at Macmillan, previously led the project to develop the phenomenally successful ePetitions system, working with MySociety.

Lawrence Merritt joined Photobox as Commercial Director in 2007, since when the company has grown rapidly to become the clear market leader in the UK with over 40% category reach.

Markus Schilling brings international experience as Head of E-business Solutions at the leading European multi-channel retailer, Neckermann. With over 55% of sales generated via its online store, he has honed a user-friendly shopping experience with innovative applications that drive customer value and boost conversion rates.

As Head of Audience Development at Telegraph Media Group, Julian Sambles has overseen a growth from 7 million to 27 million unique users per month since he took on the role in June 2007.

Now in its eighth year, this conference is built around the core processes of the digital marketing cycle, addressing the fundamental questions that online marketers face: how to get the right people to your site; how to get visitors to do what you want them to; how to keep them there and grow their value; and how to measure and optimise the success of your online marketing.

The Online Marketing Masterclasses attracts top practitioners from leading brands who work across the digital marketing and e-commerce spectrum. The first delegates to register this year are from AXA PPP Healthcare, Interflora, Dell, The Caravan Club and Legal & General.
Further information is available at http://econsultancy.com/masterclass.

Tips to consider for better online marketing Thoughts to consider for better online marketing

2009-09-09T19:37:00.000+08:00

I recently gave a consultation to a potential client regarding their social media strategies. This company, who shall remain nameless, is already a large, respected, and dominate leader in their space. They have been online just short of a year, made many acquisitions, and they have an active userbase, and community that continues to grow.

Some of the problems they are suffering from, as most sites of their size and caliber, is content, too much of it. Content is king, no disputing that, but when you are producing the sheer amount of it that this company is, it can lead to confusion for the consumer.

We talked about better ways to prioritize their content, and organize it in such a way so that it was not an overwhelming experience for their users. We also spoke about their current social media initiatives, what they are doing right, wrong, and not doing at all.

Lastly, I touched on user retention, ways to improve site usability and expanded on different avenues for monetizing. These are the different variables that I look at and factor in when working with a client to help achieve their desired goals and results. Marketing is just one variable , but the second being the consumer interaction with the website. What happens when a potential customer lands on your site needs to be looked at very carefully. How long they stay on your site, how well they are able to navigate the site, not find or find the relevant content/products, interact, and when required too, make purchases.

This post reflects on some of my observations and suggestions to the client. I touch upon a multitude of areas. I have also added additional thoughts and pointers, some may be relevant to you, some may not. I hope you will pull away something from this and perhaps use it and learn from it.

Collect current and potential users email addresses:

Capture users email addresses (if system is not in place). Implement an opt-in mailing list solution. Do I really need to further expand on the benefits of this?

Break down the walls:

Make your most prominent content offerings visible on the front page. Do not bury it in sub-directories of parent links and drop down menus. Give your core offerings high visibility at the front door.

Provide a map:

Create a sitemap for your content. If I'm lost on your site, throw me a lifeline.

Focus on the expert layer:

This particular company has done quite a few blog acquisitions, in addition has thousands of site members who publish blogs on the site. Arriving at the site, the distinction between expert, and user generated content was hard to distinguish. With some minor graphical enhancements, that problem is easy solved. Think about how you can incorporate expert layers into your product marketing. Think about the ways you can build and achieve brand credibility. Ask experts to contribute blog posts, video posts, anything that sheds light positively on your product and brand. This might cost you a few bucks, but always make sure your motives are transparent.

Don't guess, just ask:

Solicit site feedback. Create a site usability survey. Improving site features and functionality comes down to data. Create a customer feedback survey, nothing too lengthy. Let the users of the site speak to you in their own words. Ask them direct questions, what they would like to see more of, less of, and so on. Reward them for participating in the survey, as this will also be used to get them to participate. By participating they could be entered in a drawing to win free shirts, hats, you get the picture.

Optimize for Mobile:

Create a mobile version of your site, if one is not in place. There are 405 million mobile internet users worldwide, according to Internet research firm eMarketer, and within four years this number is expected to double.

Create outposts. Go where the existing and potential customer base is and establish a presence.

Establishing a Twitter account is a necessity, and should be a priority. For this particular company I advised them to create one main Twitter account for , and then gradually experiment with the in-house blogs. The main Twitter account will be the megaphone for the entire site, so multiple accounts may not be necessary. Create Twitter accounts for the leading branded blogs on the site. Let the in-house bloggers post on them. They will broadcast on these accounts, staff will need to have minimal involvement, except monitoring the accounts from time to time. Let the bloggers create and bring their own followers to the site.

Use Twitter for brand monitoring.Twitter needs to be paid special attention to. Consumers are voicing their frustrations in growing numbers on Twitter, and businesses are listening. If something is being mentioned on Twitter, it should be relativity easy to track it down using a basic Twitter search. You can also narrow your results down further using search operators or advanced search. Twitter search pages also gives you an RSS feed for the search term results. You can add the RSS feeds to your watch lists in Google Reader.

Establish a Facebook account only for . Create a Facebook group for . Updating will require minimal staff involvement, with the exception of the group. RSS and social content aggregators I.E FriendFeed, Twitter updates etc will update the Facebook profile automatically. Staff can go in from time to time to react to comments, post new links, etc. At the very least this account is to be used for an outpost, any added efforts is certainly a plus.

Establish a MySpace account and set up the profile with all the relevant news and links pointing back to . Blog posts and featured content should be imported and posted often. Encourage following on the all the social networking accounts. Remember both of these sites are in international markets, are you targeting them?

Establish a YouTube channel and other video platforms. This is core if you are creating original video. While we don't want to drive too much traffic away from , these sites serve a few purposes, one is brand exposure, the second is for SEO. User generated content and the sites that display it tend to rank higher in search engines. The same is true for social networking sites, such as Facebook, LinkedIn Twitter etc. These are authoritative links, accounts and links from these sites are weighted much higher and as a result rank higher in search.

Give people the tools to extend your brand outwards across all the social networks. Consider developing widgets, Facebook applications, Mashups, API's. How many people are using iGoogle nowadays? You get the picture.

Promote the social networking site accounts with badges/buttons (nice eye candy on ). Encourage following and follow everyone back.

User generated content:

Give your users the ability to import RSS, flickr feeds, amazon wish lists, Twitter statuses, bookmarks and so forth. This of course depends on your product. This particular company has an extensive amount of user generated content, such as user created blogs, video, and pictures. What I wanted to see was more of alifestreaming element for their users.

As I mentioned this company has a tremendous amount of user generated blog content. I advised them to create a step by step primer for creating blog posts. In additon to steps for promoting the blogs. The more we can arm the users with information and tools for promotion, the more traffic it will drive back to in the long term. A weekly series could be implemented by an expert for blogging tips. Since blog content plays a big role on the site, we are empowering the users to become in effect citizen journalists. As long as we teach them and provide the tools, the platform will always be .

Empower, and encourage the users to use and link to the content they created on , on their other social networking sites. Widgets play a big part of this as well. We need to teach the users what RSS is, and how it will benefit their blog promotion.

Google’s Chrome Web browser gets first personal-computer partner in Sony

2009-09-05T04:12:00.000+08:00

Sony ships PCs with Google Web browser installed

SEATTLE — Sony Corp. is giving Google Inc.'s fledgling Web browser a boost by installing it on new computers.

Google spokesman Eitan Bencuya, confirming the deal Tuesday, said Chrome has been shipping on Sony devices since earlier this summer. Sony is the first PC maker to sell computers with Chrome pre-installed.

Bencuya would not say whether Chrome is set as the default browser on those machines, as was reported earlier by The Wall Street Journal.

"Users' response to Google Chrome has been outstanding, and we're continuing to explore ways to make Chrome accessible to even more people," Bencuya said in an e-mailed statement. "We are in the process of testing one such channel with Sony."

Microsoft Corp.'s Internet Explorer is the most widely used Web browser in the world; the distant No. 2, Mozilla's Firefox, is gaining in popularity. Google's Web browser launched in 2008 and commands only a sliver of the browser market.

Distribution deals such as this could help Google win over consumers who think of the Mountain View, Calif.-based company only in terms of its Web search dominance. Google has also built a smart phone operating system and is now working on a free PC system to challenge Microsoft's Windows.

But it's not clear how much this particular deal with Sony can help improve Google's standing. Sony's PC business is too small to be counted on lists by industry research groups IDC and Gartner Inc. of the top five computer makers by unit shipments.

Sony Alpha A330L 10.2 MP Digital SLR Camera

2009-09-01T06:54:00.000+08:00

Sony has come up to deliver an unmatched widget like, Sony Alpha A330L 10.2 MP Digital SLR Camera that is stuffed with some of the unique features that gives an exclusive niche in the open houses as well as will clearly polarize in favor of it.

No doubt this DSLR will clearly attract a larger number of camera lovers to this latest digicam that is a compact camera, rather than a point-and-shoot camera. Its size is smaller and compact as compared to other cameras. Its price mark is USD 850 along with an extra 55-200mm lens that is increasing its significance.

This latest camera A330L is having the weight of 17.3 ounces, the A330 is minor and lightweight, slightly smaller than previous year’s a300 - and it adds most of the capabilities of the past model. It is for the information of the owners of A330 that, this series is not true copy of A300.

As compared to its past series, this is quite light weight and is a better recourse to carry along during the pleasure trips, yet the grip is relatively smaller and may appear not that much comfortable and safe in bigger-sized hands. A camera without LCD, the A330L has reckoned extra features in it.

This latest mobile has in-camera image stabilization, and a tiltable live view display either. Its operation and usability is that much easy, that you don’t need to consult its manual frequently. Its better dial capability has added bright and easy-to-reach scene recourses like, landscape, portrait and sports capabilities.

This latest camera series is incredibly quick to autofocus, with varying yet in general terms with precise outcomes. This latest model camera incorporates massive multi-size focus modes, besides manual focus, and also lends multiple metering settings.

2.7in transparent photo LCD plus display lends live view with fast auto focus that lets you compose and shoot images using the LCD like you do on the point-and-shoot camera. This LCD screen tilts up and down to get low and high-angle snapping, like shooting over a gathering or an occasion or a baby as you wish.

Key Specs and Features

Primary Features
Viewfinder Diopter Adjustment: -2.5 - +1.0m-1
Eye relief: Approx. 19.7mm from the eyepiece / 14.1mm from the eyepiece frame at -1 diopter
Field of View: 95 percent
Focusing Screen: Spherical Acute Matte Screen
Magnification: 0.74x (with 50mm lens at infinity)
Type: Fixed eye-level, penta-Dach-mirror
LCD Display Angle Adjustment: Yes (upward by up to 135 degrees, downward by up to 55 degrees)
Brightness Control: Auto Brightness Control (auto setting in 2 steps, manual setting in 5 steps)
Coverage: 100 percent (Playback), 90 percent (Live View)
Type: 2.7in TFT Clear Photo LCD (230,400 pixels)
Operating Temperature: 32 - 104 degrees F (0 - 40 degrees C)
Service and Warranty Information: 1 Year Parts & Labor

Dimensions
Size Approx: 128 x 97 x 71.4mm (W/H/D, excluding protrusions)
Weight (Approx.): 491g (without battery, memory card, accessories

Other Features
Power Battery Type: NP-FH50
Number of Shots: Approx. 510 images with viewfinder, approx. 230 images in live view mode (CIPA standard)
Flash Flash Compensation: ±2EV (in 0.3-stop increments)
Flash Coverage: 18mm in focal-length of lens attached
Flash Metering System: ADI flash (automatic change for Pre-flash TTL)
Guide Number: 10 (in meters at ISO100)
Modes: Auto, Fill-flash, Red-eye reduction, Rear sync, slow sync, Hi-speed sync, Wireless
Recycling Time: Approx. 4 seconds
Type: Auto Pop-up
Inputs and Outputs HD Output: HDMI
Memory Card Slot: Dual memory card slot: Memory Stick PRO Duo^TM media SD and SDHC memory card
Tripod Mount: Yes, 1/4in-20
USB Port(s): USB2.0 Hi-speed (mass-storage, PTP)
Convenience Anti-dust function: Charge protection coating on low pass filter and image-sensor shift mechanism
BRAVIA® Sync^TM: Yes, via HDMI with compatible BRAVIA HDTV
Display colors: Black, White, Brown and Pink
Creative Style: Standard, Vivid, Portrait, Landscape, Night view, Sunset, B/W Contrast, Saturation, Sharpness
Scene Modes: Scene selection (Portrait, Landscape, Macro, Sports, Sunset, Night portrait/Night view)
User Interface: “Easy-to-understand Graphic Display and on-screen Help Guide User-friendly function menu”
General Camera Type: Sony α Digital SLR camera with built-in flash and inter-changeable lenses
Color Filter System: RGB primary color filters
Effective Picture Resolution: Approx. 10.2 megapixels
Imaging Sensor: APS-C size CCD sensor (23.5×15.7mm)
Lens Mount Type: Sony α lens, Minolta and Konica Minolta AF lens
Pixel Gross: Approx. 10.8 megapixels
Processor: BIONZ^TM image processor
Recording Media Type: Memory Stick PRO Duo^TM media / , SD and SDHC memory card,
Recording Mode: RAW, RAW+JPEG, Fine, Standard
Still Actual 16:9: L size: 3872×2176 (8.4M) M size: 2896×1632 (4.7M) S size: 1920×1088 (2.1M)
Still Actual 3:2: L size: 3872×2592 (10M) M size: 2896×1936 (5.6M) S size: 1920×1280 (2.5M)
Software Operating System Compatibility: Microsoft Windows 2000 Professional Windows XP*SP2 Windows Vista Mac OS X(v10.1.3) or later
Supplied Software: PMB (Picture Motion Browser) Image Data Converter SR Image Data Lightbox SR
Control AF modes: Single-shot AF, Automatic AF, Continuous AF, (AF/MF selectable)
Drive Mode: Single-shot, Continuous, Self-timer, Self-timer Continuous, Bracketing, Remote Commander
Exposure Compensation: ±2EV (in 0.3 EV steps)
Exposure settings: Auto, Auto Flash Off, Program Auto (P), Aperture priority (A), Shutter priority (S), Manual (M)
Focus Area: Wide (Up to 3 active focus points glow), Spot, Local (9 local areas selectable)
Focus Features: Predictive control, Focus lock, Eye-start AF, AF illuminator (Built-in flash, Range: approx. 1-5m)
Focus Points: 9 points
Focus Sensitivity: EV0 - 18 (ISO100)
Focus System: TTL phase detection system
ISO: Auto, 100 to 3200 (in 1 EV steps, Recommended Exposure Index)
Metering: TTL metering w/ 40-segment honeycomb-pattern SPC
Metering Modes: Multi-segment, Center-weighted, Spot
Metering Sensitivity: EV2 - 20 at ISO100 with F1.4 lens, (EV4 - 20 in spot metering mode)
White Balance: Auto, Daylight, Shade, Cloudy, Tungsten, Fluorescent, Flash, Custom

Complementary in the Box
NP-FH50 Rechargeable Battery
Video cable
DT18-55mm SAM Kit Lens
Shoulder strap
Software CD-ROM
BC-VH1 Battery Charger
Body cap
USB cable

Sony Alpha A330L 10.2 MP Digital SLR Gallery

Samsung Star S5230 Surpasses 5 Million Sales Mark

2009-08-28T07:55:00.000+08:00

Manila, Philippines -- Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd., a leading mobile phone provider, announced that sales of the Samsung Star, its hugely popular touch screen mobile phone, surpassed the 5-million mark this month. The Star (model number S5230), launched in May, is the fastest model in Samsung’s history to reach the milestone.

Launched first in Europe, one million of the touch screen devices were sold in the first month and a half alone, after which the company expanded sales efforts to include markets in CIS, Southeast and Southwest Asia, East-Central Africa, China, and Central America.

More than 700,000 units of the Star were sold in May and more than 900,000 in June. Monthly sales in July and August were 1.6 million and 1.8 million, respectively. Based on the current trend, Samsung projects total cumulative sales to reach 10 million globally by November.

“We’re very pleased by this success,” said Young-hee Lee, Vice President of Marketing, Mobile Communications Division, Samsung Electronics. “We see the demand for touch screen phones increasing and we will continue to offer consumers a diverse range of products, supported by unique marketing campaigns.”

The Star has sold particularly well in Europe, where Samsung has sold more than 2.8 million units, topping sales lists in key markets such as France, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Italy.

The Star was launched as an affordable mobile phone, appealing to young consumers with its slim, 11.9 mm body and 3-inch WQVGA touch screen. It also boasts high-tech features such as Samsung’s exclusive high-quality sound technology, DNSe, as well as a SmileShot-enabled camera and Bluetooth v2.1. The Star’s global success can be attributed in part to its sleek design, interactive and user-friendly UI, and its reasonable price point.

To drive sales, Samsung also launched active marketing programs in emerging markets where the phone is being sold, tailoring its activities, such as experimental Mobile Live events and outdoor marketing, to specific trends in those countries.

About The Samsung Star (S5230)

The Samsung Star comes with the latest multimedia features in a slim and compact body that measures a mere 11.9 mm. Adopting a 3.0-inch WQVGA full-touch screen and Samsung’s TouchWiz User Interface with Mobile Widgets, the phone enables its users to access features easily and intuitively. Using “Photo Contact,” users can call a contact by simply touching an appointed image.

The S5230 boasts a 3.2 mega-pixel camera and video recording supporting QVGA@15fps. It supports multi-format and DNSe for ease of use and enhanced sound quality. The phone also features music recognition using Shazam’s “Find Music” service. To allow users to store diverse multimedia content, the S5230 has 50MB of internal memory with an external memory slot for up to 8GB.

Samsung Star users can enjoy full Internet browsing, with an accelerometer sensor allowing the onscreen image to automatically adjust as you rotate the phone. For convenience, the phone also supports an onscreen QWERTY keyboard, “Smart Unlock” and handwriting features. ph.samsungmobile.com

Samsung Star (S5230) Product Specification

Network	EDGE/GPRS Quad Band (850/900/1800/1900MHz)
Display	3.0” 262K WQVGA LCD (240x400)
Camera	3.2 Megapixel CMOS (Smile Shot)
Video	H.263 /H.264/ MPEG4/WMV(v9) / Video recording supporting QVGA@15fps
Audio	FM Radio with RDS, DNSe
Audio	MP3, AAC, AAC+, WMA, eAAC+, WMA(v9), AMR,MIDI,SP-MIDI, i-melody, WAV
Value-added Features	Music Recognition/SNS/Photo Contact/Smart unlock/Wide Idle screen/Handwriting
	TouchWiz UI with Mobile Widget
	Google Search/ Google email/Full Internet browsing/Online Widget
	Various full embedded games
Connectivity	Bluetooth v2.1 / USB 2.0 FS
Memory	Internal Memory 50 MB + External Memory slot : microSD (up to 8GB)
Size	104 x 53 x 11.9 mm
Battery	1000 mAh

Sony Ericsson W205 Walkman Phone Launched

2009-08-26T15:57:00.000+08:00

Sony Ericsson has launched its new budget priced Walkman range of mobilephone, the Sony-Ericsson W205 Walkman music phone features 1.8-inch 65K colors TFT display, an integrated 1.3 MP auto-focus digital camera and integrated Mega Bass, Stereo Widening Speakers.

The dual band GSM 900 / 1800 MHz network ready Sony Ericsson W205 mobilephone sports a stylish slider up design and has 128 x 160 pixels, 1.8 inches, 65K-colours TFT display and it features a dedicated music and call-selection control buttons on the front of the phone. In addition, there is a large navigational pad that allows allowing access to all the features of the phone as well as changing tracks and volumes.

Measures just 92 x 47 x 16.4 mm and weighs 96 grams, the new Sony Ericsson W205 Walkman mobilephone comes with 5 MB shared internal memory and it supports Memory Stick Micro (M2) card with up to 2 GB maximum memory storage. A 128-MB M2 card that is included. The main internal storage memory allows storage of up to 1000 phone numbers and handset also offers 30 dialed, 30 received, 30 missed calls records.

Data Connectivity

Supporting Polyphonic 72 channels ringtones along with MP3 ringtones and AAC ringtones, the Sony Ericsson W205 walkman mobilephone offers GPRS Class 10 connection with upto 48 kbps speed, and ultra fast EDGE class 10 connection allowing upto 236.8 kbps data speed.

Sony Ericsson W205 is also equipped with standard fast USB v2.0 port (miniUSB port) which is used for both power recharging and PC connectivity for data exchange.

USB Mass storage Mode

The Sony Ericsson W205 Walkman mobilephone also supports a USB mass storage mode, allowing storage of important files like documents, images, and music files. The USB massstorage mode does not require any special setup or software installation on any PC the handset is being connected to. Simply connect the Sony Ericsson W205 walkman handset to the PC running Windows XP or Vista using custom-supplied USB cord and press OK (yes) button to kick-start the USB mass storage session and drag-drop files between PC and handset.

Digital Camera

The Sony-Ericsson W200i Walkman mobilephone sports integrated 1.3 Megapixels digital camera that offers 2X digital zoom for both still and video shooting at maximum still picture resolution of 1280 x 1024 pixels. The VideoDJ feature allows the user to add together several chunks of recorded or downloaded video clips to create a continuous video picture which can be further enhanced with music or sound clips.

The Sony Ericsson W205’s digital camera is also equipped with autofocus technology (green ractangle display while shooting) and comes with a powerful integrated flash. The shooting mode supports various options for still and video recording under several adjustable shooting conditions.

The W205 walkman series phone is also captures videos in 3GP format with a resolution of 176 x 144 pixels. Recording length is only limited by the available free space on the memory card.

Media Player

The Sony Ericsson W205 Walkman mobilephone is equipped with full featured Walkman Mediaplayer v1.0, which offers top-quality sound with hosts of media player features. The phone has integrated speakers and comes with high-quality Sony headphones. In addition, it also offers 3.5 mm audio out port to allow users plugin their choice of headphones. One can play, rewind, fast forward, equalise, shuffle tracks and create playlists – just like in any other digital music player.

An optional external dual stereo speakers can play music quite loud and clear. The Media Player supports MP3, AAC and MPEG4 files and file transfer is fairly fast using USB v2.0 interface. The handset also provides facility to gain access to an online music store directly for downloading music tracks straight into the handset.

The MusicDJ feature in Sony Ericsson W205 music phone allows the user to create their own polyphonic ringtone with the use of the built in instrumental sounds & rhythms. In addition, one can subscribe to music and video podcasts and transfer them to your phone via Sony Ericsson Media Manager software (included on CD in phone kit) and enjoy on the go.

Sony Ericsson W205 offers a new innovative music management app TrackID that can recognise a clip of music and provide the user with the name of the song along with the album title and the name of the group or solo artist singing the song.

FM Radio With RDS

The Sony Ericsson W205 also features an integrated FM Radio with RDS and 20 station memory. The radio can be played through the loud speaker as well. The radio is stereophonic reception and the phone is capable of receiving very clear and stable signal without any interferences in the broadcast.

The RDS feature of FM Radion technology in Sony Ericsson W205 enables display of the radio station name or even additional information – like artists’ names or songs’ titles and duration etc. The FM Radio offers 20 stations memory and allows frequency scale of 87.5 up to 108.0 MHz.

All the rest..

The Sony-Ericsson W205 also supports MMS (Multimedia Message Service) for Multimedia text messaging allowing sounds, pictures, animations and formatted text in SMS message and its integrated image blog features allows sharing photos instantly by directly posting them onto any blog site.

Available in choice of Windy Blue, Ambient Black, Sakura Pink colors, the Sony Ericsson W205 walkman mobilephone’s some other features includes; built-in Image viewer and Picture editor software, voice memo recording, built-in handsfree Speakerphone, WAP 2.0/xHTML Browser, OperaMini Browser, Java MIDP 2.0 support, picture caller ID, applications such as calendar, currency converter, alarm clock, auto keypad lock, stop watch, and preloaded polyphonic ringtones with ringtone composing application.

Equipped with Li-Ion standard battery, the Sony Ericsson W205 walkman mobilephone offers upto 425 hrs of standby and 9 hrs of talk time (on GSM network) or a maximum of 13 hours of continuous music play.

Sony Ericsson W205 Walkman Mobilephone Features

Dual band GSM 900 / 1800 MHz
128 x 160 pixels, 1.8 inches, 65K colours TFT display
5 MB shared internal memory
Memory Stick Micro (M2) support (up to 2 GB)
1000 contacts phonebook, Photo ID call, 30 received, dialed and missed call
GPRS Class 10, 32 – 48 kbps
EDGE Class 10, 236.8 kbps
Bluetooth v2.0
USB v2.0 port, USB Mass storage
1.3 Megapixels digital camera, 1280 x 1024 pixels resolution, 2x Digital Zoom, Autofocus, integrated flash
Video Recroding in QVGA, 320 x 240 pixels resolution, 15 fps
Walkman v1.0 Media Player, Supports MP3, AAC,AAC+, e-AAC+, WMA and MPEG4 file formats
Integrated FM radio with RDS and 20 station memory
Ringtones – Polyphonic 72 channels, MP3, and AAC
Image viewer and Picture editor software
Organizer
Voice memo recording
Built-in handsfree Speakerphone
Colors – Windy Blue, Ambient Black, Sakura Pink
Integrated Mega Bass, Stereo Widening Speakers
3.5 mm audio out port
HPM-64 bass reflex headphones
WAP 2.0/xHTML Browser, NetFront v3.4 full HTML browser, RSS reader Application
Li-Ion Standard battery
Stand-by Up to 425 hrs
Talk time Up to 9 hrs (13 hours music play)
Dimension: 92 x 47 x 16.4 mm
Weight – 96 gms

Quantum Leap in Computer Keyboard Technology

2009-08-23T18:06:00.001+08:00

Zurich, Switzerland, August 22, 2009 --(PR.com)-- The first machine possible to classify as a keyboard was introduced in 1829 (typographer). In 1874, Remington had introduced its QWERTY keyboard layout. The most significant step towards keyboards becoming interfaces to computers started with the teletype in the 1900's – the teletype had for the first time, converted the key presses of letters and symbols in to electrical impulses that could be sent over a telegraph wire and converted by a remote machine to type on a paper.

For a century, since the early days of the teletype, keyboards had changed very little in core concept and no significant technology innovations had arose or stayed.

In the end, the keyboard's interface has not itself changed substantially since introduction, except in cosmetic details, but the interpretation and importance of its output and its configurability have grown greatly alongside the march of technology.

Aymer International is proud to present MOBBAL™, the first quantum leap in computer keyboard technology. MOBBAL™ Technology™ represents a pioneering approach to computer keyboard mechanism, allowing the first ever non electric pulse based keyboard technology. Not using any circuit board and not requiring the key to close a circuit or actually touch any part, the MOBBAL™ Technology™ uses special meas to detect which keys are pressed. Visually, any keyboard working with the MOBBAL™ Technology™ is practically indistinguishable from a standard, run-of-the-mill computer keyboard and yet, this is by far no ordinary keyboard technology.

MOBBAL™ Technology™ brings a true liquid proof solution, not just water but any kind of liquid, basically since there is no circuit board under the keys and there's no conductivity needed. Even dust and debris are no longer a problem, for MOBBAL™ Technology™ keyboards. On top of the non-controversial mechanical advantages, MOBBAL™ Technology™ also offer the added value of being electromagnetic emission safe technology, since the directionality of the beam helps ensure that data isn't leaked or spilled to nearby devices as it's transmitted, it is also immune to signals from other devices.

LEDs make the MOBBAL™ Technology™ cost efficient solution, with typical lifetime of 100,000 hours and very limited wear and tear, being a solid state components, LEDs are resilient and very difficult to damage with external shock. MOBBAL™ Technology™ keyboard is rugged and expected to operate flawlessly for more than a decade.

With very few international regulatory constraints, implementing of MOBBAL™ Technology™ in PC (Desktops or Laptops) keyboards requires manufacturing companies only minor structural adjustments, following Aymer International guidelines, to allow their products the edge of the new technology.

Contact Information
Aymer International Limited
P.O. Box 100, Sydney Vane House Admiral Park
St. Peter Port, Guernsey, Channel Islands, GY1 3EL
E-mail: info@aymer-int.com
www.aymer-int.com

All rights reserved. Aymer International and the Aymer logo are trademarks of Aymer International Limited. MOBBAL™ and MOBBAL Technology ™ and MOBBAL™ Logo are trademarks of Aymer International Limited. All other brand and product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owner(s).

Average age of adult computer game addicts is 35, US study shows

2009-08-20T13:27:00.001+08:00

The average age of adult computer game addicts is 35, a US study has found, casting doubt on the traditional stereotype of gamers as college geeks.

However, the research, of more than 500 adults, reinforced other images of technology addicts by finding that they were fatter and more depressed than the general population and reliant on the internet for finding friends.

Investigators from the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Emory University and Andrews University analysed survey data from people ranging in age from 19 to 90 in the Seattle-Tacoma area on health risks, media use and perceptions, including those related to video-game playing; and demographic factors.

They found measurable correlations between video-game playing and health risks.

Participants reported whether they were players or non-players, and weekly usage was collected.

Internet usage was assessed, as was the relative importance of the Internet as a social support.

Other elements studied included self-assessments of depression, personality, health status, physical and mental health, body mass index (BMI), and poor quality of life.

Those surveyed also estimated the time they spent during a typical week surfing the net and watching telly, including videos and DVDs.

Nearly half (45.1 per cent) reported playing video games.

Female video-game players reported greater depression and lower health status than female non-players.

Male video-game players reported higher BMI and more internet use time than non-players.

The only factor common to both men and women players was greater reliance on the net for social support.

Dr James B Weaver III, of CDC, Atlanta, said: "As hypothesized, health-risk factors specifically, a higher BMI and a greater number of poor mental-health days differentiated adult video-game players from non-players.

"Video-game players also reported lower extraversion, consistent with research on adolescents that linked video game playing to a sedentary lifestyle and overweight status, and to mental-health concerns.

"Internet community support and time spent online distinguished adult video-game players from non-players, a finding consistent with prior research pointing to the willingness of adult video-game enthusiasts to sacrifice real-world social activities to play video games.

"The data illustrate the need for further research among adults to clarify how to use digital opportunities more effectively to promote health and prevent disease."

Dr Brian Primack, from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, suggests that many video games are different enough from original forms of play that they may be better defined as "play-like activities."

He said: "There are noteworthy differences between the oldest forms of play - for example chase games - and today's 'play-like activities.'

"These play-like activities may stimulate the right centres of the brain to be engaging.

"However, the differences between today's 'play-like activities' and original forms of play may illuminate some of the observed health-related correlates discovered."

Dr. Primack said the greatest challenge will be maintaining the balance.

He added: "How do we simultaneously help the public steer away from imitation play-like activities, harness the potentially positive aspects of video games, and keep in perspective the overall place of video games in our society?

"There are massive, powerful industries promoting many play-like activities. And industry giants that can afford to will successfully tout the potential benefits of health-related products they develop.

"But who will be left to remind us that for children and adults alike Hide-And-Seek and Freeze Tag are still probably what we need most?"

Pentax W80 Camera Review

2009-08-16T18:59:00.000+08:00

Cameras

The Pentax W80 is their last in a long line of waterproof cams that take decent shots, but have always been my favourite because of their compact size. This one is a bit bigger, but gains ruggedisation and depth.

The Price: $US300

The Photos and Video: In sample shots on our kiteboarding trip and at the local beach, the W80 was not the best but sill surprisingly good. Compared to periscoped lens setups, the traditional internal 5x zoom lens made the 12-megapixel shots look sharper than most other waterproof cameras. The 28mm equivalent lens was sharp edge to edge. Colour was good, too.

But I noticed the lens was a little too slow to capture sharp motion underwater where light is rarer than on the surface. (The first sample shot I took in dim light triggered the flash where other models didn’t need one.) Colours and exposure was fine, but the grunge resisting lens and LCD were only marginally helpful in combating substances like suntan lotion, grime and surfboard wax. Video is captured at up to 720p, but it didn’t look so great. Face detection locked on pretty quickly, and there are several shake reduction capabilities, including digital and movie modes.

The Design: The casing is still one of the smallest and is by far the most pocketable ruggedised model around, but it’s only good for drops up to one metre. Models by Lumix and Olympus are far more rugged, although more Hummer-esque, too. Pentax’s various scene modes are amongst the most useful around, and there’s an simple button to switch between them, but that button and menu is also the only way to easily switch between video and still mode. Quite a chore.

The camera could use a design refresh, in all honesty, and more metal. But it’s also good for winter sports, rated to function down to -10 degrees Celcius. I liked Pentax’s optional floating wrist strap, too.

The Waterproofness: Good down to 4.8 metres, up from 3.9 metres in the last generation. Good enough for light to medium beach duty.

The Recommendation: My favourite rugged-ish waterproof camera when size is a consideration.

Compact considering its quasi-rugged chassis.

Decent shot quality.

There are tougher cams out there that take better photos, but only slightly so in all regards.

Could use a redesign, since the W60, W40 and W20 had similar cases.

Night Vision Astroscope for Nikon SLR Camera’s

2009-08-12T18:16:00.001+08:00

If you need to take photos in low light photos with your SLR camera then the AstroScope 9350 modular night vision system could be your answer. The Astroscope fits between your camera and lense and help intensify low light to give you that perfect picture even on the darkest nights.

At the heart of the 9350 is a CIU (Central Intensifier Unit) that transforms moonlit or starlit scenes into bright, high resolution images that are easily photographed or video recorded. The Astroscopes 9350 is designed to fit a number of SLR and camcorder platforms including Nikon and Canon SLR mounts and has excellent low-light performance and a compact rugged design.

Transform your Nikon or Canon Digital SLR Camera and capture high resolution images at night and in low-light situations otherwise too dark for standard digital cameras. With AstroScope, the light amplification is equivalent to the improvement of 8-10 F-stops so that moonlit or starlit scenes are transformed into bright, high resolution images that are easily photographed.

Full specifications can be found here.

Olympus E-P1 Review

2009-08-11T14:02:00.002+08:00

The Austin, Texas, Bergstrom Airport TSA officer walked toward me with focused intent in his eyes and I wondered about possible laws I may have unknowingly broken. His first spoken words were exact. "Sir, what kind of camera is that? I don't believe that I've seen that one before!" We talked for a while. And so it goes. That happens a lot with an Olympus E-P1 hanging around my neck.

The look of the Olympus E-P1 brings us back to a certain point in the past in the guise of the Olympus PenF film camera. It has returned to us as a proverbial blast from the past that works. I always have a camera somewhere on my body and the E-P1 makes it easy to do that. I am always looking for interesting photographs and that happens a lot with this camera. It is easier to do just that because I can throw it into almost any of my pockets, and it does so much with its many very usable bells and whistles. I am a photographer who used to be a painter and now I use a camera in place of a paintbrush while using Compact/SD Cards in place of paint.

Two observations need to be addressed before I get into my view of this camera. The first point is that I have photographed with Olympus cameras since 1982 when I began using them during my coverage of Central America and Lebanon and I have worked with Olympus in their Visionary program because I like the quality of their cameras. They have stayed light and functioning in a way that syncs well within the way I work. I have worked with the other major cameras in the past but it is a matter of personal choice.

[ view gallery ]

The other point I have to make is that I basically have no interest in the technical stuff that goes along with and drives technical GEE WHIZ camera use and production. I care only about the photographic result that will make me happy enough to not go screaming into the night because of photographic miscues caused by errant cameras. Perhaps that's an overreaction.

The Olympus E-P1 is a continuing part of the 1959 family ancestry connected with the legendary Olympus Pen film cameras. This current generational image collector is a Micro Four Thirds system camera that is the smallest of the new generation of digital cameras. This next stage camera carries much of the features connected with the Olympus digital SLR system such as: Art Filters, dust reduction via SuperSonic Wave Filter, face detection, magnified focus assist, multiple exposures, and sensor-shift image stabilization.

This Olympus E-P1, as the shiny new infant on the block, has a 12.3-megapixel sensor and is capable of still and video capture. It has a 3-inch LCD viewfinder; 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 (28-84mm in 35mm film); ISO: 100-6400; weight: 11.8 oz.; uses memory SDHC/SD cards and along with a lot of other features, comes in at the MSRP of $799.00. The Olympus E-P1 body retails alone at $750, and the camera bought with the 17mm f/2.8 with Olympus optical viewfinder costs $900. Some of the new features arriving at the party come as HD video, 324-area matrix metering, onboard music, in-camera music/still/video integration, and digital leveling.

[ view gallery ]

The camera is retro in a digital world and attracts attention from amateurs as well as professionals, partially because of its coolness factor.

To address what this camera is about is to address the nature of what photography is today. The E-P1 touches on different possibilities (such as multimedia with music inside the camera's video programs) in this one little machine that fits in a sports jacket or photographer's vest pocket. It has full HD video and permits the use of all of the Art Filters that are in the Olympus E30 to be used with the video capture which means that the photographer will end up with some very interesting video at the end of the day, with very good sound. The video also has the capacity to make a still image of whatever video is being captured when the video capture is ended which I think is pretty cool.

After I began carrying the camera everywhere and shooting at random various subjects catching my eye – it seemed as if it took on a life of its own. It got to the point where I was able to shoot in a fluid way, and without focus problems, anything I wanted to shoot. I found it very freeing. I carried the E-P1 with me as I spent a couple of days on assignment photographing President Obama in the White House and in Washington but I wasn't able to shoot any stills because I often (like everyone else) had to use longer glass. I did manage to shoot some video by sticking the camera on a tiny tabletop tripod and placing it in my inside shirt pocket but because of my inexperience with the camera, the video was shot on a bad angle. The video did look good on a bad tilt. I confess that I didn't shoot as much video as I had intended but I did manage to do a bit more video shooting of a visiting personal trainer in a swimming pool in the area where I live.

[ view gallery ]

I liked the image color quality and after hearing comments about camera noise at high ISO, I shot some images at different speeds up to about 1200 ISO. This camera will not scare Nikon's D3 camera. Photographers who cannot shell out $3,000 for the Canon 5D will love the E-P1, and the sound recording is much better. $799 is a pretty good deal and the camera delivers amazing features for this price. I have bounced around on my motorcycle with the camera while enjoying the speed of focus without losing photographic moments I wanted to capture. Part of that will happen because, like anything, it's necessary to feel it out. I never thought that I would get to a point where I could leave my house all day without worrying about not having my E30 or E3 cameras with my 12-60 mm to shoot the odd picture.

With the interchangeable lens that can be used with the camera – it brings up some interesting things to come in the future. The capabilities demand that the news photographers who now are expected to shoot video at times while on assignment can do so easily without carrying a lot of extra stuff. There cannot be any excuses for not having this camera with them.

I have made some photographs that I might not have made because of this interesting tool. Of course, there is a wrinkle in some places – as in the video gets a bit choppy when certain of the Art Filters are used. For example, the Grainy B/W Art Filter slows down the moving image because of the processing for the effect. The good news is that it looks interesting but it will not be in real time. Instead, you get an interesting slow motion effect in the resultant video.

[ view gallery ]

I didn't get the opportunity to shoot with the 17mm f/2.8 pancake lens and viewfinder but I am looking forward to working with it in the future. I imagine that lens as a 'street shoot delight' situation every day the lens is on the camera and I would hazard a guess that street shooters will love the feel of that.

This is a fun camera that invites a lot of different kinds of photographs. I have started a project using the camera because I will always have it with me and I like the idea of working in a simple fashion. I expect some hostility from other camera makers because of their being caught with their pants down. That won't last long because they will have to do the work to catch up.

I have found the image quality to be excellent; the Live View has been delightful to work with and I wondered at first if I was going to have a problem with that. I am used to using eye level finders for the most part but it has not been a problem.

The camera is a such a delight to work with that I can almost feel guilty about enjoying it so much – but not that guilty. It is a useful tool and it allows the person who uses this camera to explore the artistic possibilities inside of themselves. This camera may be the bargain of the year.

Eli Reed, a Clinical Professor of Photojournalism at the University of Texas at Austin, has been with the elite Magnum Photos since 1983. A 1982/83 Harvard University Nieman Fellow, he has worked on assignment for national and international publications covering world news events since 1982. He is the recipient of countless prestigious awards, including the W. Eugene Smith Grant in Documentary Photography; Overseas Press Club; Kodak World Image Award for Fine Art Photography; Leica Medal of Excellence; POY Nikon World Understanding Award; World Press Photo; Pulitzer Prize nominee, and Visa Pour l'Image Festival du Photoreportage (Perpignan, France).

His books include "Beirut: City of Regrets," "Black in America" (text and poetry written by Reed with preface by Gordon Parks), and "I Grandi Fotografi Eli Reed." Reed is a member of the black photographic collective Kamoinge, and the Society of Motion Picture Still Photographers (SMPSP), having photographed approximately 30 feature, documentary, and cable network films. He is involved in ongoing film projects.