Dr. Augustine Fou's Online Scrapbook

Tuesday, May 14, 2013

Raspberry Pi camera module comes to the UK May 14th, lands early for some

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2013/05/13/raspberry-pi-camera-module-comes-to-the-uk-may-14th-lands-early/

Remember that Raspberry Pi camera module we wrote about a few months ago? It looks like UK-based electronics retailer CPC / Farnell will start taking orders for the shooter on May 14th. Users on the Raspberry Pi forums who signed up for info about the camera module have received an email from the retailer inviting them to order. As a reminder, the five megapixel fixed-focus shooter -- which only measures 25 x 20 x 9mm -- can snap 2,592 x 1,944-pixel images and capture video at 1,080p (30fps), 720p (60fps) and VGA (60 or 90fps). While the accessory is expected to cost about $25, there's no actual pricing details on CPC / Farnell's website. Wanna see the camera module in action? One lucky Raspberry Pi user's received the device early and shared a video -- check it out after the break.

Update: As promised, the boards are now officially available to order per a blog post on the Raspberry Pi website. Hit the source link for a list of commands needed to activate the add-on, or check after the break for another video demonstrating the setup process.

[Thanks, HaloBlu]

Filed under: Cameras, Misc

Via: Raspberry Pi forums

Source: CPC / Farnell, Raspberry Pi

Monday, May 13, 2013

Twitter buys Lucky Sort startup to help visualize your tweets

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2013/05/13/twitter-buys-lucky-sort/

Twitter just acquired Lucky Sort, a Portland, Oregon-based startup that built TopicWatch, a visualization and navigation engine known for presenting large amounts of data in an easy-to-digest format. With more than 200 million users in more than 160 countries, Twitter certainly has more than enough data to warrant the acquisition, which means hashtag infographics like the one above could be available for Twitter users in the near future. Fans of Lucky Sort's TopicWatch product, on the other hand, will have to find some other venue for their data fix, for the service is set to shutter in the months ahead. Shocking, we know.

Filed under: Internet

Via: TechCrunch

Source: Lucky Sort

Ceton InfiniTV CableCARD tuners add six tuner, Ethernet options

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2013/05/13/ceton-infinitv-cablecard-tuners-add-six-tuner-ethernet-options/

Ceton InfiniTV CableCARD tuners add six tuner, Ethernet options

Almost three years after Ceton's InfiniTV 4 CableCARD tuner hit the market as an easy and affordable way to watch premium HD cable TV on Windows Media Center, the company is finally rolling out a new variant. We've seen price drops, a USB version and a few alternatives from competitors since the 4 launched but a few options were still missing. That included the original six tuner prototype touted at its CES debut and an Ethernet jack for sharing with multiple PCs, but both check boxes have been filled today by the new InfiniTV 6 ETH. It looks a lot like the USB version of the InfiniTV 4, but with an added Ethernet port (the USB port pictured after the break is for a Tuning adapter, not to connect to a PC) and the ability to record six shows at once. It's available today for $299 from popular online retailers while a six tuner PCIe version, is due in June for the same price.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

Filed under: Home Entertainment, HD

Source: Ceton Corp

Amazon purchases Liquavista display company from Samsung

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2013/05/13/amazon-purchases-liquavista-from-samsung/

Proving rumors correct, Amazon just purchased Liquavista, the touchscreen company previously owned by Samsung. This news comes from The Digital Reader, which discovered the acquisition via new filings from the Netherlands Chamber of Commerce (Amazon also confirmed the news). That's about it as far as details go, but it's safe to assume that Amazon will employ Liquavista's low-power color e-paper technology for its Kindle lineup.

Filed under: Samsung, Amazon

Via: Business Insider

Source: The Digital Reader

Groupon POS builds upon Breadcrumb with simplified point-of-sale interface for iPad

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2013/05/13/groupon-pos-for-ipad/

Last year, Groupon acquired Breadcrumb, a New York City-based startup known for its affordable iPad-based point-of-sale system. Now, a new Groupon-branded version of the tool, called POS, arrived in the iTunes store this morning, giving merchants a venue to process and track customer tabs, with a much simpler interface. The app, which appears to be a significantly dumbed-down version of Breadcrumb, is compatible with an optional cash drawer and printer, according to the iTunes listing, but doesn't appear to offer advanced management functionality, such as time sheets and advanced reports (though basic stats are tracked). Groupon POS is available for download now at the source link below -- subscription info is lacking, but based on the limited functionality here, we wouldn't be surprised to hear that it's free.

Filed under: Software

Via: TechCrunch

Source: Groupon POS (iTunes)

Flipboard adds more curation, social network options with iOS update

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2013/05/13/flipboard-ios-social-update/

Flipboard builds on curation options with sociable iOS update

When Flipboard launched version 2.0 on iOS and Android not long ago, its self-created magazines seemed to strike a chord with users. The latest version of the app for iOS, 2.02, is capitalizing on that popularity with new features that let you check out your readership and see complete profile pages of fellow curators. You'll also be able to see their work and share your own more easily, thanks to a new Friends category and updated share menu, which adds the option to send stories and magazines by SMS. So, if you're looking to boost that fledgeling curated magazine empire, hit the source to grab it.

Filed under: Cellphones, Tablets, Software

Via: TNW

Source: Flipboard (iTunes)

Aereo live TV service refreshes pricing plans, expands to Boston on May 15th

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2013/05/13/aereo-live-tv-boston/

We've been eager to try out Aereo's TV streaming service, which sends live broadcast content to devices over the internet. But the service has at least one significant flaw: it's only available to subscribers in the New York City area. Beginning May 15th, the streaming service will expand to Boston-based users, and rates will change slightly as well. The base plan, which includes unlimited streaming and 20 hours of DVR storage, will remain unchanged at $8 per month, but the $12 monthly tariff will include 60 hours of storage, compared to the 40 hours Aereo previously offered.

And that's it -- no more $1 daily or $80 yearly plans, though that latter option is still available until the new structure goes live on Wednesday. The service is supported on iOS, Chrome, IE 9, Firefox, Safari, Opera and Roku devices, though those geographic restrictions keep the access pool quite limited. New Yorkers can take the service for a spin today, Bostonians will get the green light come May 15th, and the rest of you can see what you're missing in the demo video after the break.

Filed under: Home Entertainment, Internet, Software, HD

Source: Aereo

Bloomberg Reporters Were Taught About The Power Of Using The Terminal In The Wake Of The Jerry Sandusky Scandal

Source: http://www.businessinsider.com/bloomberg-terminal-reporting-2013-5

jerry sandusky

Everyone on Wall Street has been talking about how Bloomberg News reporters used private user data from Bloomberg Terminals to essentially spy on employees at JPMorgan and Goldman Sachs.

This all came to light after an unidentified Bloomberg reporter pointed out to Goldman that a partner had not used his terminal in an unusually long period of time and inquired if he left the bank, the New York Post reported.

If you're not already familiar with them, a Bloomberg Terminal is a computer that's targeted toward financial professionals so they can message other users, obtain real-time market data, news, and stock quotes among many other functions.

The terminal, which costs about $20,000 per subscription, is a powerful tool for finance professionals. It's also a big money maker for Bloomberg LP with more than 300,000 terminals being used globally.

The power of the terminal was also emphasized among Bloomberg reporters for informing coverage of their stories.

According to a source familiar with the situation, reporters at Bloomberg were brought into a meeting back in 2011 to learn how to better use the terminal to find sources for their stories.

We're told this particular meeting happened around the time of the arrest of Jerry Sandusky, the former Penn State football coach who had been charged and later convicted with sexually assaulting several ! boys. &n bsp;

The source said they used Sandusky as an example at the meeting of how you could look up people who went to Penn State and if they played football while he was a coach. Managers emphasized that Bloomberg was the "original Facebook."

Terminals are a great resource for looking up sources, especially in finance. Bloomberg users have profiles set up pretty much like a social network. Some people add their photo, their interests, where they went to school and previous organizations where they worked.

What's more is those reporters with access to terminals could then send messages and/or chat with potential sources on the terminal's instant messaging system.

We're told it was common practice among Bloomberg reporters to use terminals for reporting purposes, including the private client information.

Bloomberg has now restricted reporter access to private client information on the terminals after Goldman complained.

Bloomberg's CEO Daniel Doctoroff said in a statement it was a mistake to let their reporters have access to this private client information. Editor-In-Chief Matthew Winkler also issued an apology.

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Article: Microsoft: Chrome Extension, Firefox Add-on Hijack Facebook Accounts

Microsoft has discovered a new piece of malware in the form of a Google Chrome extension and Firefox add-on that can hijack Facebook accounts. It does not appear that there are equivalent plugins for Internet Explorer nor Safari.

The threat, detected by Microsoft as Trojan:JS/Febipos.A, was fir...

http://thenextweb.com/facebook/2013/05/13/microsoft-warns-users-of-new-malicious-chrome-extension-and-firefox-add-on-that-hijack-facebook-accounts/

Sent via Flipboard

Use a DIY macro lens to get that close up photo with your phone

Source: http://hackerspace.lifehacker.com/use-a-diy-macro-lens-to-get-that-close-up-photo-with-yo-498083149

Getting your phone to take macro pictures by MacGyvering an external lens has been covered before several times at lifehacker by Whitson Gordon and Jason Fitzpatrick. User ASCAS posted his tutorial on Instructables, its pretty ingenious, and deserves a close look.

What makes this hack so unique is that the lens includes its own lens holder and the Images are so clear. To make the lens, you measure the size of the camera bulge on your phone using a circle ruler, then transfer your measurements to the LED lens holder. Trim to the resultant circle on the holder so it won't bulge out. Finally, cut some double sided adhesive to attach the lens holder to the phone and snap in the lens and volla!

Follow the link below to see the full DIY.

Here is the full DIY for making a high quality macro lens for your phone.

ASCAS via Instructables

Sand Can Light Up A Room

Source: http://gizmodo.com/sand-can-light-up-a-room-503861239

LED lightbulbs are already energy efficient, but they would be even better if they could emit light without connecting to the grid at all. Brooklyn-based designer Danielle Trofe is trying to make that happen.

Trofe created two designs for this month's Wanted Design 2013. Both are hourglasses that use the kinetic energy of falling sand to power a light bulb. One model is a sort of torch/flashlight-type situation, and the other is a flippable stool. It's a small step, but at least now you'll have enough light and a place to sit while you watch the environmental collapse of our planet. [Inhabitat]

Mad Genius' Motion Capture System brings Sony's break-apart controller idea to life, and then some

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2013/05/12/mad-genius-controllers-motion-capture-system/

Remember that break-apart DualShock 3 idea for motion control Sony had five years ago? A new company named Mad Genius Controllers has surfaced with a working prototype that shows such a contraption working in spades. The setup uses a splittable controller and a processing unit to enable seamless motion control and spacial tracking on any title and system. Because Mad Genius doesn't use any accelerometers or cameras like the current consoles, its creator notes that accuracy of up to 1/100th of an inch is possible.

In a video demo with an Xbox 360 version of Skyrim and a modified Xbox gamepad, certain gestures and movements even automate menu selections like a macro. One instance shows the controller being split and held like bow and arrow, highlighting that both sides are tracked in relation to each other -- not to mention that the in-game character's weapon automatically changes without any menu-digging by the user. The current version is merely a wired proof-of-concept, but Mad Genius plans to eventually make it wireless and hit Kickstarter for funding. In the meantime, you can build up anticipation for yourself by checking out the nearly 10-minute long video demo after the break. All that's left is the inevitable Oculus Rift tie-in (like we've just done with this post).

Filed under: Gaming, Peripherals

Source: Mad Genius Controllers (YouTube)

Sony Xperia ZR announced, allows underwater photography up to five feet of depth (video)

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2013/05/13/sony-xperia-zr-launched-waterproof/

Sony's ratcheted up its water-resistant device tech a notch with the launch of the Xperia ZR, a new 4.6-inch, 720p Android smartphone that's waterproof to 1.5 meters (5 feet). Sony boasts that its new device will let you film your snorkeling adventures in full HD quality, with HDR in both video or 13-megapixel stills thanks to the Exmor RS image sensor -- there's also a dedicated camera button like the one on the Xperia ZL. The handset packs a Snapdragon S4 Pro quad-core 1.5GH CPU, 2GB RAM, LTE, NFC, Sony's Walkman album and movie apps and a notable OptiContrast OLED screen with Bravia tech to reduce glare "even in bright sunlight." There's no word yet on pricing or availability, but as soon as we hear more, we'll try to prep you ahead of that next beach-bound holiday. Meanwhile, you can check the galleries, PR and video after the break for more.

Update: As Xperia Blog found out, the Xperia ZR is actually the international version of Japan's upcoming Xperia A SO-04E -- the one we saw popping up in the FCC database.

Gallery: Sony Xperia ZR

Filed under: Cellphones, Mobile, Sony

Source: Sony (Facebook)

Canon 5D Mark III now captures 24 fps RAW video thanks to Magic Lantern firmware add-on

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2013/05/13/canon-5d-mark-iii-now-captures-24fps-raw-video-magic-latern/

It's no secret that Canon's 5D Mark III is the go-to DSLR for videographers the world over, but things are about to become a whole lot more interesting. The people behind Magic Lantern have successfully coaxed the 5D Mark III into shooting 24 fps RAW video at resolutions up to 1,920 x 820 pixels using 1000x speed cards. If you're not familiar with Magic Lantern, it's an open source firmware add-on that brings additional functionality to Canon EOS cameras. The ability to capture RAW video at 24 fps improves dynamic range and resolution -- it also provides extra flexibility during post-production. According to the team at Magic Lantern, more work is required before the feature is ready to be deployed. So until then, you're invited to follow the link below and watch the RAW vs. H.264 videos after the break.

Filed under: Cameras, Canon

Source: Nofilmschool

Sony reveals prototype 13.3-inch e-ink slate with stylus, aims to put it in students' bags

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2013/05/13/sony-13.3-inch-prototype-e-paper-tablet/

Sony's no stranger to the odd e-ink device, but its latest prototype creation isn't targeted at the bookworm, it's intended to educate. The e-paper slate is quite a lot bigger than most tablets, let alone e-readers, sporting a 13.3-inch screen (1,200 x 1,600) to match the standard A4 size of normal, boring paper. That display is also an electromagnetic induction touchscreen for poking at menus and scrolling, but more importantly, it supports stylus input for scrawling notes and annotating PDFs (the only file format it currently supports). The prototype device is also only 6.8mm (0.27 inch) thick and weighs 385g (13.6 ounces) -- perfect for slipping into school bags. There's 4GB of on-board storage (with a microSD slot to increase that) and WiFi, which Sony plans to use for sharing notes with those who didn't make it to class on time. With WiFi off, the rechargeable battery inside is expected to last for three weeks of solid learning. These specs are for the prototype, of course, so after the late-2013 field trials at three Japanese universities, we might see some revisions before commercialization goes ahead sometime during the 2013 fiscal year.

Filed under: Sony

Source: Sony (Japanese)

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