hardware

Sony just loosed a bevy a new headsets in Japan. The ¥3,098 ($26) MDR-LE30LW comes in the additional colors of blue, white, and black and offers a double-retraction system for both the headphones and audio player cable. You'll be the envy of the janitorial boys when slung from your beltloop along side your keys.

Also on the retractable tip come the 16.5-mm thin, 38-gram model MDR-Q38LW (¥2,468 / $20) and 43-gram model MDR-Q68LW (¥3,675 / $30) headphones. They offer 104dB/mW with 20Hz to 24kHz range or 108dB/mW with a slightly wider range of 16Hz to 24kHz, respectively. Like the MDR-LE30LW, the MDR-Q68LW offers double-cable retraction at the push of single button.

ASUS MW221U and MW201U LCD Monitors Receive Microsoft Windows Vista Certification

ASUS's MW221U and MW201U widescreen monitors have passed the WHQL tests and are both certified for Windows Vista Premium version. Both monitors will bring a more plentiful graphic experience to users. The ASUS MW221U 22" widescreen monitor, which delivers a high resolution of 1680 x 1050 and wide viewing angles, can fit two A4 size pages side by side on screen. This means that there is ample space for displaying multiple windows simultaneously and perfectly complements the new functions of Windows Vista such as Windows Sidebar and Internet Explorer 7.0. Microsoft is also building support for HDCP (High-Bandwidth Digital Content Protection) into Windows Vista as its OCPM (Output Content Protection Management). Both the Asus MW221U and MW201U support HDPC and have built-in DVI input; which is one of requirements for being certified for Windows Vista Premium version. Coupled with built-in stereo speakers and earphone jacks, the Asus MW221U and MW201U will bring multimedia enjoyment to users with ease.

The Asus MW221U and MW201U both incorporate ASUS's exclusive Trace Free Technology, which accelerates response time to 2ms to enable smooth video quality without ghosting and video delays. The MW221U is currently the fastest and most responsive 22" widescreen in the market. Both monitors display 16.7 million colors and adopt ASUS Splendid Video Intelligence Technology for more spectacular Vista experiences making the MW221U and MW201U the best choices for visually upgrading the system.

Eastman Kodak Company today entered the consumer inkjet industry with a revolutionary new product line for the home. The KODAK EASYSHARE AiO Printers feature exclusive KODACOLOR Technology that enables consumers to cost-effectively print crisp documents and KODAK lab-quality photos. KODACOLOR Technology is a combination of four key elements—pigment-based inks, micro-porous photo papers, color and image science, and the Micro-Electro-Mechanical-Systems (MEMS) print head—that deliver outstanding results for general-purpose printing of text and graphics and stunning color photos that are sharp and vibrant. The PICTBRIDGE compatible entry level model KODAK EASYSHARE 5100 All-in-One Printer ($149.99 US MSRP), featuring print, scan and copy capabilities, and can print and copy up to 32 pages per minute in black and 22 pages per minute in color. The mid range KODAK EASYSHARE 5300 All-in-One Printer ($199.99 US MSRP) builds on the 5100’s features by offering a 3-inch color LCD display that enables photo viewing and cropping directly from the printer.

Memory card slots provide an additional quick and simple way to print digital pictures without a PC. The top end model KODAK EASYSHARE 5500 All-in-One Printer ($299.99 US MSRP) in addition to sharing the features of the 5100 and 5300 printers, the 5500 has fax functionality and includes a 2.4-inch color LCD display, an automatic document feeder and a duplexer attachment.

Fujitsu Computer Systems Corporation today announced the LifeBook P7230 notebook, an ultra-portable that elegantly blends mobility with complete functionality for mobile professionals who need full computing power while on the road. Weighing less than three pounds, the LifeBook P7230 notebook, available in chic Leather Black or trendy Leather White, features an even slimmer 1.17-inch silhouette with a 10.6-inch LED lit widescreen display.

Equipped with the powerful yet energy-efficient Intel Core Solo U1400 Ultra Low Voltage Processor and fully loaded with Microsoft Windows Vista Home Basic, Windows Vista Business or Windows XP Professional, the reliable LifeBook P7230 notebook delivers exactly what professionals on-the-go require. With an LED-lit Crystal View XGA TFT wide format display, the LifeBook P7230 notebook presents an incredibly crisp view of presentations, DVDs, and other digital media. Digital dual array built-in microphones and dual built-in stereo speakers, along with a new optional built-in web-cam for taking still pictures or capturing video, add a novel dimension to the LifeBook P7230 notebook. The optional built-in camera, centered above the display, is ideal for visually demonstrating a complicated procedure over the web or illustrating items to clarify key points.

Staying connected while mobile is easy with a seamlessly integrated Intel PRO/Wireless 3945b/g Network Connection or Atheros Super AG Wireless LAN, modem, Gigabit Ethernet, and Bluetooth wireless option. The LifeBook P7230 notebook offers two conveniently placed USB 2.0 ports, an IEEE 1394 port, full-sized video port, modem, LAN and audio in and out jacks. Accessing photo or video files is easy via a combination of Secure Digital (SD), Memory Stick PRO and xD card slots.

The Genius SlimStar 820 is one of a kind keyboard that includes a solar panel to draw on energy from light sources and then to recharge the unit's built-in battery. The panel located on the top right is adjustable to absorb as much light as possible. Other than this unique feature, the SlimStar 820 seems like an ordinary $15 keyboard with tons of multimedia hotkeys. One more thing. The keyboard is hybrid powered. In the absence of any light, the USB cable charger can take over. The solar-panel doesn't recharge the 1600dpi laser mouse which uses 4 AA batteries that are pretty harmful to the environment. The good news is the batteries last up to 15 months.

Samsung Electronics which holds the record for selling more than a million sets of their Bordo LCD TV’s in the shortest time has launched 32-inch and 40-inch 2007 Bordo LCD TVs. The concept of the new design of the 2007 Bordo LCD TVs which is sure to attract the admiration of worldwide customers is “Beauty”. The products imitate in a stylish way an image of wineglass through the use of a soft and transparent bezel design in the lower part. Breathtaking clarity, stunningly vibrant colors, rich acoustical depth, and seamless multimedia integration make Samsung Bordo LCD TV a leader in LCD TV technology. In addition, the front, frame and rear parts of the LCD TVs are high-glossy coating treated, bringing up the image of black pearl coating, coupled with a soft touch-based control button of a shiny jewelry-like detailed design, maximizes the beauty of TV.

The thrill of optimized game mode; true-to-life surround sound; and sharp definition of even fast-moving images etc makes Samsung Bordo LCD TV’s a class of its own.

Without much fanfare, HP has started offering an upgrade to its sleek and sexy Pavilion dv9500t notebook that's sure to please multimedia mavens: an HD DVD-R drive. While the previous dv9500t had the ability to play HD-DVD movies, the updated dv9500t can now burn HD content as well.

The notebook, which starts at $1,174, features Windows Vista Home Premium, a 1.6-GHz Intel Core 2 Duo processor, a 17-inch WXGA+ display, 1GB of RAM, a webcam and mic, 160GB hard drive, 802.11a/g/n Wi-Fi, and the required Nvidia GeForce 8600M GS graphics card to complement the HD DVD-R drive. The HP Pavilion dv9500t with HD DVD-R is available now.

HP Pavilion dv9500t Notebook specs:
Intel Core 2 Duo processor T5450 (1.66 GHz, 2MB L2 Cache, 667MHz FSB), 17.0″ WXGA+ BrightView Widescreen (1440×900), Vista Premium, Intel Graphics Media Accelerator X3100, 1GB SDRAM, 160GB 5400RPM SATA Hard Drive, LightScribe SuperMulti 8X DVD+/-RW with Double Layer Support, PRO/Wireless 4965AGN Network Connection, 8 Cell Lithium Ion Battery, Microsoft Works 8.0, Free Microphone/Webcam, one-year limited warranty.

Fujitsu announced two new additions to its notebook lineup, and neither are traditional notebooks: The Fujitsu LifeBook T2010 is a convertible Tablet, and the Fujitsu LifeBook U810 is a UMPC.

Featuring a bidirectional swivel hinge, the 12.1-inch, 3.5-pound Fujitsu LifeBook T2010 makes great use of its 1280 x 800-pixel backlit display that's optimized for both indoor and outdoor use. Internal components include your choice of Intel Core 2 Duo processors, 1GB of RAM (upgradable to 4GB), a shock-mounted and two-level password-protected hard drive (ranging in size from 60GB to 160GB for a traditional HDD, or a 32GB solid state drive), 802.11a/b/g/n Wi-Fi, a PC Card slot, and 3-in-1 memory card reader. The security conscious will appreciate the inclusion of a fingerprint reader, TPM, a Smart Card slot, and BIOS password protection; and the clumsy will appreciate the spill-resistant keyboard. Purchasers can also select either the Windows Vista Business or Windows XP Tablet PC Edition 2005 operating systems. An HSDPA mobile broadband option will be offered in Q1. The LifeBook T2010 starts at $1,599.

At just 1.5 pounds, the incredibly lightweight Fujitsu LifeBook U810 is what Fujitsu hopes will be the handheld that makes business users give up their BlackBerrys. Powered by an Intel A110 processor this mini-UMPC has 1GB of RAM, a 40GB hard drive, 5.6-inch Crystal View WSVGA display, 0.3-megapixel camera for snapping photos and Web conferencing, an SD Card reader, pointing device, illuminated keyboard, and a modular bay that can be outfitted with one of several optical drives. The system also comes with a slew of security features (BIOS Lock, a fingerprint reader, and TPM) and two wireless options (Bluetooth, 802.11a/b/g Wi-Fi). The U810 comes preinstalled with Windows Vista Home Premium, Windows Vista Business, or Windows XP Tablet PC Edition 2005. The system starts at $999, but in the first quarter of 2008, a HSDPA mobile broadband option will bring the price to approximately $1,300.

The Fujitsu LifeBook T2010 is available for purchase now, and the Fujitsu LifeBook U810 will begin shipping September 18th.

Price: $999 (Fujitsu LifeBook U810); $1,599 (Fujitsu LifeBook T2010)

LG will demonstrate next generation 1920 x 1080/60p full HD video content at IFA 2007. LG’s next generation full HD TVs can display 60 frames per second at a 1920 x 1080 resolution. The “p” in 60p stands for progressive scan. These 60p TVs differ from 1920 x 1080/30p TVs that show only 30 frames per second and 1920 x 1080/60i or interlaced TVs that only refresh half the lines of resolution at a time. 60p-capable TVs can display a larger amount of information per second than any other type of televisions. Sixty-frame per second progressive scan technology dramatically reduces moiré effect and image noise, creating sharper images.

The edges of round objects are clearer and free from jaggedness that has sometimes been evident with existing content. Moiré effect is an optical illusion that causes the appearance of lines across an image, degrading video quality and resolution. LG used its LF75 full HD LCD TV, to the test the 60p content; this model is set to be launched globally in this month.

AOpen launches miniPC Duo MP965-DR to equip Santa Rosa platform. The third generation miniPC Duo MP965-DR from AOpen adopts the latest Intel GM965+ICH8M chipset. The complete 64 bit-based design combined with Intel Core 2 Duo (Merom) 64 bit central processor and Microsoft Windows Vista 64 bit version operational system allows consumers to experience the truly ultra-high performance of a 64-bit computer system. AOpen miniPC Duo MP965-DR enables customers who require complex computing and high performance to enjoy the convenience and compact design without sacrificing size for performance and cooling. In addition, AOpen miniPC Duo MP965-DR supports Intel Turbo Memory technology. Combined with Microsoft Windows Vista ReadyBoost functionality, it can further enhance the performance of system computing.Adopting two, brand new sets of miniCard architecture in expanded interface, new AOpen miniPC Duo MP965-DR provides customers options such as traditional TV turner, digital TV, Bluetooth modules and wireless network modules.

Press Release:

AOpen launched its latest generation of miniPC -- AOpen miniPC Duo ( model name MP965-DR). Expanding beyond exclusive features from previous generations, such as power saving, whisper-quiet operation and small form factor, the third-generation miniPC adopts a new Intel® GM965+ICH8M chipset and Santa Rosa platform architecture and fully supports the high-performance Notebook central processor with Socket P --Intel® Core™ 2 Extreme (Merom), and duo-core 64 bit processors, such as Intel® Core™ 2 Duo (Merom). The greatly enhanced operational performance enables miniPC to meet the requirements of highly demanding computing environments.

"Now, AOpen's miniPC Duo series has formally entered into a whole new era. With its industry-leading development capabilities in mini PCs, AOpen successfully integrates the most advanced Intel ® Core™ 2 Extreme (Merom) notebook central processors and 64 bit-based Intel® GM965+ICH8M chipset into a compact 1.36 liter package without sacrificing performance and superior cooling features. It allows AOpen miniPC Duo to deliver desktop-like performance," said Tony Yang, AOpen's senior marketing director and spokesman. "Meanwhile, MP965-DR's built-in miniCard interface can effectively solve the peripheral expandability of AOpen miniPC Duo and provide customers more options in peripheral accessories."

New AOpen miniPC Duo MP965-DR adopts the latest Intel® GM965+ICH8M chipset. The complete 64 bit-based design combined with Intel® Core™ 2 Duo (Merom) 64 bit central processor and Microsoft® Windows Vista™ 64 bit version operational system allows consumers to experience the truly ultra-high performance of a 64-bit computer system. Moreover, AOpen miniPC Duo MP965-DR provides strong support for advanced Intel® Core™ 2 Extreme (Merom) processors. It enables customers who require complex computing and high performance to enjoy the convenience and compact design of AOpen miniPC Duo MP965-DR without sacrificing size for performance and cooling. In addition, AOpen miniPC Duo MP965-DR supports Intel® Turbo Memory technology. Combined with Microsoft® Windows Vista™ ReadyBoost functionality, it can further enhance the performance of system computing.

Adopting two, brand new sets of miniCard architecture in expanded interface, new AOpen miniPC Duo MP965-DR provides customers options such as traditional TV turner, digital TV, Bluetooth modules and wireless network modules, enhancing the application flexibility of AOpen miniPC Duo. The four USB 2.0 expanded sockets on the front and back panels can satisfy consumers' requirements for connecting common peripheral devices such as keyboards, mouse, MP3 players, and printers. Furthermore, AOpen miniPC Duo MP965-DR has the functionality of TV signal output and 5.1-channel audio output. Combined with 64-bit high performance, it is well qualified to be the digital audio and video hub in every household.

Aiming to assist students with the forthcoming semester, Iogear today introduced a 3-in-1 Wireless Phaser Presentation Mouse -GME422RW6. The Iogear 3-in-1 Wireless Phaser Presentation Mouse offers a laser pointer, track ball for wireless use and optical capabilities for desktop computing. Interoperable with PCs and Macs, the unit communicates with a USB receiver up to 30 feet away, ideal for making computer-based presentations in the classroom. Additionally, the track ball on top of the mouse enables it to be used in the palm of one’s hand. On a solid surface, the mouse can switch into optical mode, and operates between 800-1600 dpi to accommodate the user’s preference.

The surface of Iogear GME422RW6 3-in-1 Wireless Phaser Presentation Mouse - is covered with Nano Coating, consisting of a Titanium Dioxide and Silver nano-particle compound that contains antimicrobial properties to prevent bacteria from surviving on the product. The 3-in-1 Wireless Phaser Presentation Mouse is available for approximately $60.

As well as having room for speedy processors, there are four sockets to accommodate up to a total of eight GB of dual channel mode DDR2-800 RAM. The four SATA2 (with RAID functions) and two external eSATA ports provide for almost limitless hard disk space, and a new mini card slot supports Intel Turbo Memory (Robson) and its faster system boots and application loadings.

This aluminium SFF PC, through its integrated PCI Express X16 slot, supplies all the bandwidth necessary to accommodate the quickest graphics cards and, thereby, run professional graphics applications and complex 3D games.

“The Shuttle XPC Barebone SP35P2 Pro slots seamlessly into Shuttle’s team of exceptionally high performance small form factor PCs,” explains Tom Seiffert, Head of Marketing & PR at Shuttle Computer Handels GmbH. “With the ending ‘PRO’ comes a SFF PC barebone offering a rich equipment package previously not featured in the high performance segment of our product range.”

A fingerprint scanner ensures greater system protection, and system information is easily viewed via the front panel display. There is also the Speed-Link function allowing for the direct transfer of data between two PCs via USB cable, and rapid network connections, at gigabit speed, are achieved through an integrated network chip.

The optimal ICE2 Heatpipe cooling system is, for the first time in this model, expanded to the Northbridge, Southbridge and MOSFET modules, and a separate OASIS Heatpipe cooling system also improves the thermal properties of the most important components.

A particularly efficient, 80 PLUS certified 400-Watt power supply takes care of this black powerhouse, without compromising its performance, and solid capacitors guarantee a longer life for the entire main board.

* Special Pro Features
Fingerprint recognition technology
Speed-Link - easily connect 2 PCs via USB and share data
* Chassis
P2-type aluminum chassis, color: black
storage bays: 1 x 5.25", 3 x 3.5" (2 internal)
stealthed drive doors
dimensions: 32.5 x 22 x 21 cm (LWH)
weight: 4.2 kg net / 6.0 kg gross
* Mainboard
Shuttle FP35, Shuttle form factor, proprietary design for XPC SP35P2 Pro
Chipset: Intel P35 Express (MCH, codename: Bearlake-X) + ICH9R (I/O Conroller Hub)
Solid Capacitors for excellent heat resistance for enhanced system durability
Color slots/connectors design (Power switch, USB, PCIe, PCI)
Dimensions: 20.5 x 28 cm
* Power supply
400 Watt ATX mini PSU, AC input voltage: 100~240V
80 PLUS® certified (80% or greater energy-efficient)
Dimensions: 85(W) x 83(H) x150(D) mm
Connectors: 2x3 pin (CPU power), 2x4 pin (mainboard power)
Active PFC circuit (Power Factor Correction)
* Processor support
Socket 775 supports Single, Dual and Quad Core processors from Intel
with Core technology and 800, 1066 or 1333MHz front side bus:
Supports Core 2 Quad QX6xxx, Core 2 Duo 6xxx/4xxx,
Pentium Dual-Core E2xxx, Celeron 4xx
Designed for the upcoming Intel 45nm Core 2 multi-core processors
Supports Pentium 4/D processors at 800MHz FSB.
Processors with 533MHz FSB are not supported.
Please refer the support list for detailed processor support information.
* Overclocking
CPU frequency, CPU voltage, RAM frequency, RAM voltage
Dynamic Overclock feature:
Easily overclock from 3/5/7/10/15/20% through the BIOS.
* Processor cooling
New Shuttle I.C.E. heat-pipe module (Integrated Cooling Engine)
SilentX Cooling and Noise Reduction Technology
advanced Heatpipe technology, linear fan control.
3 independent cooling areas.
OASIS Cooling Technology: additional fanless heat-pipe design
covering the MOSFET modules (VRM), north- and southbridge
* Memory support
4 x 240 pin slots, supports Dual Channel
supports DDR2-667/800 SDRAM memory
(DDR2-1066 in overclocking mode*)
max. 2 GB per DIMM, up to a total size of 8 GB
* Slots
1x PCI-Express x16 Steckplatz
Supports Dual-slot (double-width) graphics cards
1x PCI 32 bit slot
* 8-channel audio
7.1 channel High Definition Audio with Realtek ALC888 codec
analog: line-out (8-ch), line-in, microphone, CD-in, AUX
digital: optical S/PDIF-in, optical and coaxial S/PDIF-out
* LAN Controller
Marvell 88E8056 Ethernet network controller
With PCI Express interface
IEEE 802.3u 1000Base-T compliant
Supports 10 / 100 / 1.000 MBit/s opteration
Supports Wake-on-LAN
* Firewire Controller
IEEE1394 Firewire controller TI TSB43AB22A
Complies with 1394 OHCI specification revision 1.0
2 Firewire connectors (front and rear)
Supports 400Mb/s, 200Mb/s, 100Mb/s data transfer rate
* Drive connectors
Serial-ATA II, 3 Gb/s (300 MB/s) bandwidth
4x internal (SATA) plus 2x external (eSATA)
Intel Matrix Storage Technology enabled striping and mirroring
Supports RAID 0, 1, 5, 10 and JBOD on just two or three hard disk drives
Supports Native Command Queuing (NCQ)
1x IDE ATA 100 drives (JMicron JMB368 Controller)
1x floppy disk drive
* Front Panel connectors
Microphone
Headphone (Line-out)
2x USB 2.0
Firewire (Mini 4 pin connector)
Speed-Link button
Fingerprint recognition
Power button
Reset button
Power indicator (blue LED)
HDD indicator (orange LED)
* Back Panel connectors
6x USB 2.0
Firewire (6 pin)
GigaBit LAN (RJ45)
2x External Serial ATA Hotplug (eSATA)
8-ch Audio line-out (2x rear/front, bass/center, surround/back)
Digital Audio S/PDIF: optical in/out, coaxial out
Audio Line-in
Clear CMOS button
Wireless LAN Antenna
* Other connectors
4x USB 2.0 (two sets with 2x5 pins)
4x fan connectors (3x 4 pins, 1x 3 pins)
Headers for PS/2 mouse and PS/2 keyboard
* Accessories
XPC Installation Guide
XPC 32/64bit Driver CDROM for Windows XP/Vista
Data cables: 1x floppy, 1x PATA, 2x SATA (PATA/SATA preinstalled)
Power Cord
Screws, Heatsink Compound
* Conformity
This device is classed as a technical information
equipment (ITE) in class B and is intended for use in
living room and office. The CE-mark approves the
conformity by the EU-guidelines:
- EMV-guideline 89/336/EWG electromagnetic tolerance
- LVD-guideline 73/23/EWG use of electric devices
within certain voltage-limits

Pricing is set at €391 (ex. VAT) which would make it about £320 (inc. VAT) when it launches in October.

Korean manufacturer are really working hard nowadays to provide us computer with a "different" look, and today again they are proving us that Apple is not the only manufacturer on the market which has taste. Behold the new XPION A10 series which is mainly composed of the PC tower and keyboard (the LX97WH flat screen is sold separately). Available in 3 different colors with the Snow White, Fantasy Red and Silky Black, our A10 are powered by an Intel Core 2 Duo E4400, 2GB of RAM, a GeForce 8500GT with 512MB of VRAM, 320GB of HDD (SATA). The last main point to remember on this A10 series is the 9cm thickness of the case.

Catering to users who require a efficient way to keep CPU temperatures cool, Asus announced the Silent Knight II CPU cooler that utilizes 100% copper for its fins, base and heat pipes; and dynamic fan speed control to deliver efficient heat dissipation for the latest quad-core processors. The Silent Knight II offers quiet performance and a unique design that includes a blue LED for a peaceful computing environment as well as a stylish system interior. With its large heat exchange area, lightweight design to relieve stress on the motherboard, and six curved heat pipes to efficiently transfer heat to the fins, processor temperature is always maintained at levels most suitable for high-performance and reliable computing. Additionally, the Silent Knight II also incorporates a PWM function fan that automatically modulates fan speeds according to the CPU temperature and delivers a quiet cooling at a mere 25dBA.

The voltage regulation shield inside the Asus Silent Knight II CPU Cooler directs airflow created by the 9cm LED fan to surrounding VRM (voltage regulation modules) that are critical to processor operations and overall system reliability. This unique design effectively reduces VRM temperature by 10-15°C – allowing for smooth and stable operations. The Asus Silent Knight II supports the Intel’s Core 2 Extreme series, Pentium D Dual-Core CPU, Pentium 4 LGA775 processors; as well as the AMD’s Socket AM2/940/939/754, Athlon 64-FX, Athlon and Sempron processors – making it ready for the latest and most powerful computing platforms in the market today. Asus Silent Knight II CPU Cooler measures 92 x 92 x 25mm.

Seagate introduced the next generation of its Maxtor OneTouch storage solutions: the new Maxtor OneTouch 4 family is available in three models and storage capacities of up to 1TB and offers new data protection and security along with software tools to help manage content and data in a new industrial design. Seagate's new drives are now bundled with improved software for performing multiple-computer data synchronization, drag-and-drop encryption and a "bare metal system" restore. In the event of a fatal crash or virus attack, Maxtor's new (Windows-only) SafetyDrill restore feature enables the nearly instantaneous restoration of an entire computer, according to the company. The external drives feature USB 2.0 connectivity, 7,200 rpm disks, and 16MB of cache.

In addition to the Maxtor Backup software suite, the Maxtor OneTouch 4 Plus and Maxtor OneTouch 4 Mini both include Maxtor SafetyDrill for Microsoft Windows XP/Vista: it allows the complete recovery of a local hard drive's contents using the included SafetyDrill Recovery CD to format, partition and restore all data including the operating system, applications, personal content, settings and desktop icons. The Plus and Mini storage solutions include two levels of security to guard against unauthorized use of a lost or stolen drive: Maxtor Encryption can create a password-protected folder using transparent 256-bit AES encryption to protect any data dropped onto folder. The company also includes Maxtor DrivePass (formerly Maxtor DriveLock), an embedded firmware feature that further restricts data access even if the internal hard drive is removed and attached to another computer.

Seagate said that all three OneTouch 4 drive lines also include new enhanced synchronization functions to help business travelers sync home and office computers. A new Maxtor OneTouch Manager centralizes feature management, including automated backup scheduling, specific file restoration, sync, security, drive and power management on computers running either Windows XP/Vista or Mac OS X operating systems.

The Maxtor OneTouch 4 Plus sports a new vault-like industrial design and both USB 2.0 and FireWire ports. It is available in 250GB ($130), 500GB ($200), and 750GB ($290) capacities now and will be available in a 1TB model ($360) in late October. The more compact and "travel friendly" designed Maxtor OneTouch 4 Mini -- with only USB 2.0 connectivity -- is available in 80GB ($100), 120GB ($120), and 160GB ($150) capacities. The basic Maxtor OneTouch 4 offers data backup file archiving and system settings restoral, but does not include SafetyDrill and the security features of the Plus and Mini lines. It is available in three capacities: $100 for 250GB, $170 for 500GB, and $270 for 750GB model. All drives ship with a 5-year warranty.

The Asus P5NT WS Motherboard is built on the Nvidia nForce 680i LT SLI chipset structure which supports a LGA775 Socket for running Intel Dual-core /Quad-core CPUs and two Nvidia SLI graphic cards with Dual x16 speeds on the same platform. The Asus P5NT WS is also fitted with solid state capacitors and a conductive polymer that creates the perfect system stability. These high quality materials also help ensure that the motherboard will have a longer product lifetime.

The innovative Heat-pipe Thermal design of the Asus P5NT WS motherboard effectively directs the heat generated by the chipsets to the heatsink near the back IO ports – where it can be dissipated by existing airflow from the CPU fan or optional fans. With AI Nap, users can instantly snooze the PC without terminating any tasks. The system will continue operating at minimum power and noise till reawakened.

MSI announced the launch of motherboards K9NU-Speedster and server barebones K1-106 series supporting AMD Quad-Core Opteron. Coupled with NVIDIA nForce 3400 chipset, MSI K9NU-Speedster Series motherboards and K1-106 Series server barebones focusing on entry server market support single AMD Opteron 2200 series quad-core processor. K9NU-Speedster Series and K1-106 Series provide eight DIMM supporting maximum 32GB registered ECC DDR2-533/667 memory combined with higher frequency bus for more bandwidth, performance of system boosts. In addition, high performance XGI Volari Z7 graphic processor with 16MB video memory can meet users’ need without adding another discrete graphic adapter. For topless graphic performance, K9NU-Speedster Series and K1-106 Series provide two PCI-E x16 slot supporting NVIDIA SLI technology for future expansion.

MSI K9NU-Speedster Series and K1-106 Series provide six SATA II ports with RAID 0/1/0+1/5 mode for more efficient data processing, higher transfer performance, and much secure data integrity. Two PCI-E x1 slot and one 32bit PCI slot enjoy the advantage on expansion for future growth. K9NU-Speedster Series and K1-106 Series introduce latest heatpipe thermal solution. Compared with independent big heat-sinks or fans, heatpipe enjoys better performance, stability and space-save. Consequently, heatpipe can extend product life and avoid overheat.

LaCie announced that it is now shipping the 2big Triple, a full-featured three-interface, two-disk RAID device (FireWire 800, FireWire 400 and Hi-Speed USB 2.0). The 2big Triple connects “everywhere” and is ideal for small and home office professionals needing performance and security, especially digital editing and graphic design. Offered in 1, 1.5 and 2 terabyte versions, the LaCie 2big Triple was created for LaCie by Neil Poulton and features an attractive new natural cooling heat sink metal design with a thermo regulated progressive smart fan to ensure long-lasting reliability and quiet operation. The LaCie 2big Triple can be rackmounted, placed horizontally, or stood vertically to conform to any office environment.

Neil Poulton designs and develops best-selling, award-winning products for a variety of international clients including LaCie & Artemide. Since 1991, Poulton has lived and worked in Paris, France.The LaCie 2big Triple is available in October from LaCie direct and widely available via LaCie’s specialized dealer network at the suggested retail price starting at $399.

Sharp has successfully developed a 2.2-inch super-thin LCD for mobile devices with a thickness of only 0.68 mm-worlds thinnest. The new Sharp Mobile Advanced Super View LCD with a thickness of only 0.68 mm is based on proprietary Sharp fabrication techniques for thin LCDs, in particular, glass substrate and backlight technologies. This new Mobile Advanced Super View LCD delivers superior image quality approaching that of an LCD TV thanks to a high contrast ratio of 2000:1, wide viewing angle of 176°, and fast response speed of 8 ms, which are among the highest levels in the industry. Mobile devices such as mobile phones and digital cameras are rapidly becoming thinner as manufacturers strive to improve portability and offer consumers more stylish designs. As a result, thinner embedded components such as LCDs are also increasing in demand.

The increase in demand for One-Seg (terrestrial digital broadcast) compatible handsets is leading to demands for greater visibility and higher image quality in displays intended for mobile devices. Sharp Mobile Advanced Super View LCD will be exhibited at FPD International 2007 to be held at Pacifico Yokohama on October 24 to 26.

The Nvidia GeForce 8800 GT is Specifically developed to answer enthusiast gamers’ demand for high-performing graphics at the $199 to $259 price point, GeForce 8800 GT offers a hyper-reactive, intensely robust gaming experience for the latest next-generation DirectX 10 games, such as Crysis, Hellgate: London, and Gears of War, as well as full support for current DirectX 9 games. The GeForce 8800 GT also marries the best-in-gaming with the best-in-HD. It leverages NVIDIA’s revolutionary second-generation video processing engine to deliver high-quality playback of HD DVD and Blu-ray movies on everyday PCs.

The new programmable video processing engine takes on all of the high definition H.264 video decoding, freeing the CPU to perform other tasks and significantly reducing power consumption, heat, and noise. GeForce 8800 GT-based graphics cards are available now from leading add-in card manufacturers, retailers, and system builders.

Asus has unveiled The new Triton Series CPU Coolers –Triton 77 from Asus incorporates innovative features that include the up-way air flow technology, high-density fins, dynamic fan speed control and pure copper heat pipes to deliver efficient heat dissipation for the latest quad-core processors. With its lightweight and compact cooler size, the Asus Triton 77 is also compatible with a wide range of motherboards and chassis. The Triton 77 provides up to 15% enhanced cooling efficiency by rapidly transferring heat directly from the CPU and dissipating it out from the chassis with the case fan. Additionally, it also carries the heat produced by the VRM (Voltage regulation modules) surrounding the CPU to reduce their temperature by 10-15˚C for system reliability and stability.

With ASUS’ innovative Up-way air flow cooling technology, The Triton 77 CPU coolers support Intel Core 2 Quad / Intel Core 2 Duo, Intel Pentium processor family, Intel Pentium 4 HT/Celeron D CPUs, as well as AMD ’s Socket AM2/940/939, Athlon 64-FX, Athlon and Sempron processors. It also adopts a PWM function fan that can automatically modulate fan speeds according to the CPU temperature to deliver quiet operations at a mere 18 dBA.

ATi has unveiled its anticipated Radeon HD 3800 series, a new chipset that promises better performance for the mid-range as well as new graphics features. The line bucks the trend of reserving new visuals for high-end cards by introducing support for Microsoft's upcoming DirectX 10.1 (and according OpenGL 2.0 features) and its enhanced features, such as high dynamic color range for lighting and improved anti-aliasing effects. For Windows, the 3800 series also introduces CrossFire X, a new technology that allows users with supporting AMD motherboards to use as many as four graphics cards in tandem to improve 3D performance beyond even what may be possible with higher-end graphics cards.

Regardless of software, the Radeon HD 3800 series is also far cooler than the outgoing Radeon HD 2600 it replaces. A denser and more efficient 55-nanometer manufacturing process allows the card to reach twice the performance per watt while also reducing heat and the need for active cooling, ATI says. When supported by a given system, the cards also provide full hardware HD video decoding and the added bandwidth of PCI Express 2.0 slots.

The 3800 series launches with two models. A base card, the 3850, incorporates the full feature set in a single-slot design with a 670MHz core speed and 256MB of video memory at 1.66GHz. The Radeon HD 3870 switches to a double-slot size but is clocked at a minimum 775MHz and doubles the amount of memory to 512MB at a faster 2.25GHz. ATI is releasing the cards as a Windows upgrade both under its own name and with third-party manufacturers at prices of $179 and $219 respectively. Support for other operating systems has not yet been mentioned but is expected.

GIGABYTE has introduced their GV-NX88T512H-B graphics card equipped with NVIDIA’s latest GeForce 8800 graphics processor, the Gigabyte 8800 GT graphics card. It supports PCI Express 2.0, Microsoft DirectX 10 and OpenGL 2.0, equipped with SLI and PureVideo HD technology and features dual DVI-I / D-sub.

RoHS Compliant
As a citizen of the global village, GIGABYTE exert ourselves to be a pioneer in environment care. Give the whole of Earth a promise that our products do not contain any of the restricted substances in concentrations and applications banned by the RoHS Directive, and are capable of being worked on at the higher temperatures required for lead free solder. One Earth and GIGABYTE Cares!

Dual-link DVI
Able to drive two of the industry’s largest and highest resolution flat-panel displays up to 2560×1600.

CineFX 4.0 Engine
Through CineFX 4.0 engine that allows developers to create unique 3D game features and effects in both game animation and high-definition video. Gamers can get plus benefit from CineFX 4.0 that streamlines the creation of complex visual effects.

Intellisample 4.0
The industry’s fastest antialiasing delivers ultra-realistic visuals, with no jagged edges, at lightning-fast speeds. Visual quality is taken to new heights through a new rotated grid sampling pattern, advanced 128 Tap sample coverage, 16x anisotropic filtering, and support for transparency supersampling and multisampling.

UltraShadow II
Enhances the performance of bleeding-edge games, like id Software’s Doom 3, that feature complex scenes with multiple light sources and objects. 2nd-generation technology delivers more than 4x the shadow processing power over the previous generation.

nView Multi-Display Technology
Advanced technology provides the ultimate in viewing flexibility and control for multiple monitors. NVIDIA GPUs are enabled to support multi-displays, but graphics cards vary.

SLI Technology
Delivers up to 2X the performance of a single GPU configuration for unparalleled gaming experiences by allowing two graphics cards to run in parallel. The must-have feature for performance PCI Express graphics, SLI dramatically scales performance on 60 top PC games.

Microsoft Windows Vista
NVIDIA’s fourth-gereration GPU architecture built for Windows Vista gives users the best possible experience with the Windows Aero 3D graphical user interface.

OpenGL 2.0 Optimizations and Support
Ensure top-notch compatibility and performance for all OpenGL 2.0 application.

Microsoft DirectX 10
World’s first DirectX 10 GPU with full Shader Model 4.0 support delivers unparalleled levels of graphics realims and film-quality effects.

HDCP Support
High-Bandwidth Digital Content Protection (HDCP) is a form of copy protection technology designed to prevent transmission of non-encrypted high-definition content as it travels across DVI or HDMI digital connections.

GigaThread Technology
Massively multi-threaded architecture supports thousands of independent simultaneous threads, providing extreme processing efficiency in advanced, next generation shader programs.

Quantum Effects Technology
Advanced shader processors architected for physics computation enable a new level of physics effects to be simulated and rendered on the GPU–all while freeing the CPU to run the game engine and AI.

PureVideo HD
Available on HD DVDs and Blu-ray discs, high-definition movies are bringing an exciting new video experience to PC users. NVIDIA®PureVideo™ HD technology lets you enjoy cinematic-quality HD DVD and Blu-ray movies with low CPU utilization and power consumption, allowing higher quality movie playback and picture clarity. PureVideo HD technology provides a combination of powerful hardware acceleration, content security, and integration with movie players, plus all the features found in PureVideo.

65nm Process Technology
Delivers higher performance through blazing clock rates.

The Gigabyte 8800 GT graphics card is available for $269.

Asus has released the newest thermal solution – the Glaciator Fansink; that is incorporated with the EN8800GT TOP/G/HTDP/512M, EN8800GT/G/HTDP/512M, and EN8800GT/G/HTDP/256M graphic cards. The new generation Glaciator Fansink is specially designed to effectively dissipate heat away from the graphics card. Much like the real-life glacial storms, the Glaciator Fansink can quickly transfer heat away from the GPU and lowers the temperature by a whopping 7ºC in comparison to reference design boards. The Asus EN8800GT TOP features overclocking of the stream processors – allowing users to enjoy 10% improvement in gaming experiences. The integrated SmartDoctor feature provides users with the option to overclock the Shader Clock for even better graphical performances.

The Asus EN8800GT Series comes with the exclusive ASUS GamerOSD that unleashes the true power of Asus’ VGA cards. This feature is able to deliver GPU overclocking from onscreen displays during games – allowing users real-time performance upgrades when they require it. Additionally, it also provides users with the option to record live gaming action or live broadcasting over the Internet with ease. The Asus EN8800GT Series will come bundled with the hottest DX10 game, Company of Heroes: Opposing Fronts.

Digital Cowboy has launched CRF-102 notebook cooler. The notebook cooler is designed to elevate the notebook at an angle, increasing airflow and dispersing the heat from underneath, hence avoiding overheating. The powerful 22 cm square fan with 600 rpm is powered from the computers USB port, avoiding the need to carry around any bulky AC adapters. The noise level is 18 to 20 dB only. The design is very ergonomic and lets the wrists align more naturally when typing, increasing user comfort.

The Digital Cowboy CRF-102 notebook cooler measures 300 x 270 x 25mm, weigh 750 g and is 15 degrees and 32 degrees in two stages tilt angle adjustable. Lightweight, portable, and stylish, this makes the Digital Cowboy CRF-102 a perfect companion for your notebook when on the go or at home. .The cooler is available in Japan for approximately 5,000 Yen ($45).

OCZ Technology Group has announced new 1800MHz Intel Extreme Memory modules, a performance solution that implements a specification predefined and specially tailored for the Intel X48 chipset. Designed to significantly increase performance levels of the entire platform, OCZ 1800MHz Intel Extreme Memory modules, feature Intel Extreme Memory Profiles (XMP), an exclusive set of SPD (Serial Presence Detect) settings that act as an integrated “plug and play” overclocking tool. Configured to Intel’s defined specification, these XMP-Ready memory kits will be configured to run CL8 latencies at 1800 MHz. Furthermore, each OCZ XMP module also features CL7 latencies on a second profile that is qualified by OCZ for the extreme enthusiast seeking tighter timings.

The new OCZ PC3-14400 Intel XMP memory will be available in 1GB modules and 2GB (2x1024MB) dual channel kits. Combining the blazing speeds and incredible bandwidth of DDR3 with the power of Intel’s latest chipset, these top-speed modules are the ideal solution for enthusiasts looking for the extra performance gains optimized memory offers their system.

MSI has launched its latest MSI NX8800GT Series graphics card, base on NVIDIA GeForce 8800GT Series GPU with onboard graphics memory to 1024MB (1GB). MSI NX8800GT 1GB Series adopt 8 sets of Qimonda high speed, double data rate, high bandwidth 1Gbit graphics memory chips. All these high-speed 1Gbit memory chips also compliant RoHS regulation strictly. Low voltage level design and support advanced "Auto Refresh" and "Power Down with Self Refresh" operations. All these green and ECO concept gives user the maximum possibility for over-clocking and maintains minimum power consumption.

In order to give power users more privilege on over-clocking and advanced tweaking, MSI NX8800GT 1GB Series loads with a 2-Slot, 3 sets high efficient heat-pipes thermal solution. With this 2-Slot fan which can cover over 90% of the graphics PCB, not only GPU/memory but also other components onboard can be cooled at once, ensuring best stability at any condition.

After increasing the size of high speed graphics memory, MSI NX8800GT Series makes your High-definition gaming experience unparalleled smooth than ever. Just because of plenty of memory space for GPU utilized as frame buffer, more texture resource can be read and written in real time. And this makes the gaming in extremely high-definition possible.

Asus has announced the latest Square Series CPU Cooler – the Lion Square. Inspired by the Sword Lion shield, the Lion Square borrows the character of the shield – the impressive face of lion totem, and its spirit, symbolizing strength and courage, to represent the outstanding efficiency of the new launch. The Asus Lion Square incorporates a nickel-plating copper base, four Φ8 copper heat pipes, aluminum wave fins and a 9cm LED inner fan to efficiently lower processor temperatures by 30%. In addition, the Inner fan directs airflow created by the 9cm LED fan to surrounding VRM (voltage regulation modules) – which is critical to processor operations and overall system reliability. These features enable gamers to enjoy safe overclocking of up to 180 W.

The Asus Lion Square deliver quiet and high-performance heat dissipation from the Intel Core 2 Extreme / Core 2 Quad Quad-Core CPU and AMD Athlon 64 FX/X2 Dual-Core processors.