Dr. Augustine Fou's Online Scrapbook

Wednesday, February 25, 2009

Nuclear Grade Duct Tape [Stuff We Like]

Source: http://feeds.gawker.com/~r/lifehacker/full/~3/MZ8wtEaJ4HA/nuclear-grade-duct-tape

3M's nuclear-grade Performance Plus duct tape is serious about holding your business together in the harshest of conditions.

What makes it nuclear grade, you ask?

3M Performance Plus Duct Tape 8979N is tested by an independent laboratory to insure that it meets the low leachable halogen and sulfur levels required by nuclear regulating agencies.

Honestly, we're not sure just how how much you'll need that extra protection (or what do I know, maybe you do), but as big fans of MacGyver-style hacking, we're not ones to look the other way when we spot some serious duct tape. The 3M Performance Plus duct tape will set you back $14 at Amazon.

3M Performance Plus Duct Tape 8979N (Nuclear Grade)
[3M via UneasySilence]
3M Performance Plus 8979N Nuclear Grade 48-Millimeter-by-54.8-Meter Duct Tape [Amazon]

Install Google Toolbar 6, Get Quick Search Box [Downloads]

Source: http://feeds.gawker.com/~r/lifehacker/full/~3/ML_uGBGj174/install-google-toolbar-6-get-quick-search-box

Windows only: Remember Quick Search Box, Google's new search-and-launch application built by the same guy who developed Quicksilver? Well, now it's available for Windows—you've just got to install Google Toolbar in IE to get it.

That's right, Quick Search Box is only available to install through Google Toolbar for IE, of all things. We don't even particularly like the Google Toolbar to begin with, let alone IE. On the plus side, if QSB requires Google Toolbar, better that I install it on IE—where I never have to see it—than on a browser I might actually be using. But anyway, on to the application we're interested in.

First, the bad news. In actuality, the Windows version of Quick Search Box is much lighter on features than the Mac version. For example, you can't drill down into any search items the same way the beta of QSB for Mac does. In fact, it really can't do all that much at the moment.

Now for the good news. What it can do, it does very well. QSB for Windows is a very simple, no-nonsense search box. It searches the web, and it searches for and launches applications (from what I can tell so far, it just indexes your Start menu). It's extremely fast and responsive, and it didn't use more than 15MB of memory while I was testing it. In fact, QSB for Windows is clearly more stable at the moment than QSB for Mac. Of course, functionally speaking, that's sort of like saying a screwdriver is more stable than a power drill. It's nice, but you'd still really like to be using a power drill.

We're waiting to see some serious improvements before we're ready to give QSB for Windows the same optimistic enthusiasm w! e've sho wn its Mac counterpart. In reality, QSB for Windows is very similar in feel to early versions of Launchy—with the admittedly nice addition of Google search. Still, we've seen that in Google Desktop. So while we're big fans of the QSB effort on Mac, we're so far pretty lukewarm on QSB for Windows.

On a related note, the new beta of the Google Toolbar isn't bad if you're into that sort of thing. It adds the Chrome start page to, which is cool, but if you really like Google that much, you may as well be using Chrome in the first place.

Google Toolbar 6 Beta (Note: The link will redirect to Google Toolbar 5 unless you're using IE)

Hidden Preference Tweaks in Safari 4 [Safari 4]

Source: http://feeds.gawker.com/~r/gizmodo/full/~3/gxNm_4Zgm5k/hidden-preference-tweaks-in-safari-4

If you have been kicking the tires on Safari 4, you might be interested in Random Genius' list of basic preference tweaks for people looking to disable some of the new features. [Random Genius]

Tunnel with 40,000 LEDs Is the Closest You'll Ever Get to Light Speed [Art]

Source: http://feeds.gawker.com/~r/gizmodo/full/~3/OrtFHZtXguc/tunnel-with-40000-leds-is-the-closest-youll-ever-get-to-light-speed

I've never traveled through space at light speed, but I imagine that standing in this LED tunnel is pretty close to the dizzying experience. The video is just plain awesome.

The name of the installation is Multiverse, and it was installed by artist Leo Villareal in a 200-foot-long tunnel in the National Gallery of Art in Washingtong DC. The entire thing features 41,000 LEDs that animate and move on their own, using randomness to ensure that no one will see the same configurations twice. Multiverse will be on display throughout 2009. [PSFK]

Hershey's Developing Line of Sweet Gadgety Treats [Gadgets]

Source: http://feeds.gawker.com/~r/gizmodo/full/~3/E5hRICJie6k/hersheys-developing-line-of-sweet-gadgety-treats

Hershey's has teamed up with Jazwares to develop a line of consumer electronics that will do nothing to curb the fattening of desk jockeys across the US.

Expect 1-4GB USB drives modeled after your favorite Hershey treats along with digital cameras, earphones and speakers shaped like everything from Kisses to Jolly Ranchers. Prices are expected to range from $15 to $30—but there is no word yet on a release date. Needless to say, if you lack willpower, avoid these products at all costs. [Jazwares Gearlog

Berlekamp's Switch Game May Be Nerdiest Boardgame Ever [Retromodo]

Source: http://feeds.gawker.com/~r/gizmodo/full/~3/5zR3KLWIWvQ/berlekamps-switch-game-may-be-nerdiest-boardgame-ever

The game has 100 bulbs, 10x10. Each row and each column has a switch that turns off bulbs that are on, and turns on bulbs that are off. Can you turn off all the bulbs?

The answer, even if you do attempt every possible combination, is no. But according to Microsoft Research, there's a way to "solve" the puzzle to within 1%, even if the board had 1000000 bulbs. The funny thing is, the algorithmic solution to the puzzle (originally built by Elwyn Berlekamp in 1960) can be used as a way to bypass brute-force computing in solving problems. The researchers at Microsoft are more interested in that whole thing, but I'm more interested in how some guy got to build this nice electronic board game as part of his day job, just for Show and Tell. Way to go, dude.

Here are the rules, in case you want to make your own home version (Phil Torrone, do you hear me?):

Update: This is also known as the Gale-Berlekamp lightbulb game—I'd hate for poor Mr. or Ms. or Dr. Gale to get left out of the credit. Also, I finally caught up on my Fringe from a few weeks back, and you commenters are totally right. Freaky. Wish I'd seen it beforehand.

Microsoft's TechFest is an annual jamboree of innovation and gadgetry from Microsoft Research, which means that while none of it is coming out as is in products in the near future, it's essentially what product development people use to add cool stuff to their actual releases. I'm here all day.!

Berlekamp's Switch Game May Be Nerdiest Boardgame Ever [Retromodo]

Source: http://feeds.gawker.com/~r/gizmodo/full/~3/5zR3KLWIWvQ/berlekamps-switch-game-may-be-nerdiest-boardgame-ever

The game has 100 bulbs, 10x10. Each row and each column has a switch that turns off bulbs that are on, and turns on bulbs that are off. Can you turn off all the bulbs?

The answer, even if you do attempt every possible combination, is no. But according to Microsoft Research, there's a way to "solve" the puzzle to within 1%, even if the board had 1000000 bulbs. The funny thing is, the algorithmic solution to the puzzle (originally built by Elwyn Berlekamp in 1960) can be used as a way to bypass brute-force computing in solving problems. The researchers at Microsoft are more interested in that whole thing, but I'm more interested in how some guy got to build this nice electronic board game as part of his day job, just for Show and Tell. Way to go, dude.

Here are the rules, in case you want to make your own home version (Phil Torrone, do you hear me?):

Update: This is also known as the Gale-Berlekamp lightbulb game—I'd hate for poor Mr. or Ms. or Dr. Gale to get left out of the credit. Also, I finally caught up on my Fringe from a few weeks back, and you commenters are totally right. Freaky. Wish I'd seen it beforehand.

Microsoft's TechFest is an annual jamboree of innovation and gadgetry from Microsoft Research, which means that while none of it is coming out as is in products in the near future, it's essentially what product development people use to add cool stuff to their actual releases. I'm here all day.!

The Government is NOT Spying on You Through Your DTV Converter Box [DTV Hoax]

Source: http://feeds.gawker.com/~r/gizmodo/full/~3/n_aW2cNhi9I/the-government-is-not-spying-on-you-through-your-dtv-converter-box

Last week, Spokane-based engineer Adam Chronister posted a Youtube video, where he cracked open a government-subsidized DTV converter box, only to find a hidden camera. Turns out, the whole thing was a hoax.

Threat Level says that conspiracy theorists jumped all over the video, which racked up 200,000 views since going up. However, Chronister simply used old cellphone parts and a hot glue gun to push the paranoid and mentally unstable into a state of crisis. However, these tin foil heads aren't resting any easier: they believe pranks like this only create a smoke screen for the government to carry on with their clandestine activity. Who am I to say they're wrong? (Original video below) [Threat Level via BBG]

Watching the Chicago Bears While Waiting for Your Cruise: That'll be $28,067 Please [Oops]

Source: http://feeds.gawker.com/~r/gizmodo/full/~3/FgzL8Ln7Ww4/watching-the-chicago-bears-while-waiting-for-your-cruise-thatll-be-28067-please

Wayne Burdick just wanted to watch the Chicago Bears game. Using the Slingbox he had set up, he slid in his AT&T wireless card. Two and half hours and $28,000 later, the Bears won.

Burdick was just waiting for his cruise ship to arrive, when he decided to watch the game via his Slingbox (which streams television though an internet signal). Having an unlimited data plan, he thought everything would be peachy-keen. Unfortunately, he connected to the ship's network and, as a result, ran up international roaming charges.

When Burdick complained about the charges despite never leaving the country, AT&T offered to initially reduce the bill down to $6,000. Eventually, through some media attention, the bill was reduced to $220 in charges. Oh yeah—the score was 27-23. [Chicago Sun-Times via The Register]

University Claims to Have Developed World's First Flexible Touchscreen Display [Touchscreen]

Source: http://feeds.gawker.com/~r/gizmodo/full/~3/itFCHXhXdNw/university-claims-to-have-developed-worlds-first-flexible-touchscreen-display

ASU's Flexibile Display Center and military partners have developed the very first display with a flexible touchscreen. Mainly designed for military applications, the screen is made out of glass strong enough to withstand the battlefield.

Instead of using solid glass for the touchscreen, the device incorporates special material from DuPont Tijin Films in order for the paper-thin display to bend or roll up without damaging the gadget. The device also uses technology from E-ink Corp, allowing users to write, store and erase their own content on the displays; eventually, they will also be available in full color. Although it sounds pretty cool, don't get your hopes up: The Flexible Display Center estimates that this flexible touchscreen display won't be available for another 18 months. [EETimes via Electronista]

Samsung Memoir 8-Megapixel Cameraphone Lightning Review [Samsung Memoir]

Source: http://feeds.gawker.com/~r/gizmodo/full/~3/rGPiOfK6ye0/samsung-memoir-8+megapixel-cameraphone-lightning-review

The Gadget: Samsung Memoir, which is the 8-megapixel upgraded version of the Samsung Behold—both of which have Samsung's TouchWiz-based touchscreen interface. It's also got a Xenon flash that works quite well.

The Price: $250 with two-year contract, $50 rebate and qualifying data plan

The Verdict: A pretty damn good cameraphone. The TouchWiz UI is pretty much the same as the version on the Samsung Behold. In short, it's more usable as a touchscreen phone (keyboard is fairly decent) than Windows Mobile phones, but not quite as good as say, Android or the iPhone. It does have haptic feedback, meaning there's a slight rumble as you press down on the screen. And yes, that implies that the Memoir doesn't have capacitive touch. You still have to press down when you want to click things. Let it be known that Jesús Diaz does not like some Samsung touchscreen UIs.

The front of the phone looks like a Samsung touchscreen phone, but the back actually looks a lot like a Samsung camera. Which is kind of the point. The 8-megapixel camera is very good. So good, in fact, that it's (give or take) about as good as my Samsung NV3 point and shoot from a few years ago. The gallery below has comparison shots.

And here's how well the Memoir's Xenon flash works in complete darkness. Spoiler: Pretty damn well.

I haven't had enough experience with Nokia's high end N-series cameraphones to say whether or not the Memoir is better. We've ! already established that more megapixels isn't always better, but if the Memoir can take photos that are just about as good as Samsung's NV3 (which doesn't take FANTASTIC images, we have to admit), it's a great alternative for a point and shoot camera.

Realtime Mobile Video Stitching Is So Crazy It Just Might Work [Video Tapestry]

Source: http://feeds.gawker.com/~r/gizmodo/full/~3/ENUGqOOZRoc/realtime-mobile-video-stitching-is-so-crazy-it-just-might-work

The proposition: You and a bunch of strangers are live streaming mobile-phone video of some event or disaster. A server stitches it all together and instantaneously publishes a rich, immediate patchwork of the action.

I love this system, but not necessarily for the same reasons that its developers at Microsoft Research do. I want to see something like this on YouTube, for instance. How bonerfied would Wolf Blitzer have been if he could have taken all the YouTube video of Obama's inauguration and turned it into a massive patchwork of super hi-def action? I mean, this thing makes the GigaPan look like something Thomas Edison invented in his spare time.

But Ayman Kaheel, a development manager at Microsoft's Innovation Center in Cairo, said he really wanted it to be live, and not for pre-recorded video, mostly because it's a greater challenge, and making it work live ultimately means that the other forms of it would work too. Kaheel says that the stitching service could be public or private, so in addition to plane crashes and inaugurations, this thing could make sense for weddings and stuff, if enough guests feel like livecasting.

Like most Microsoft Research projects, this one requires certain things that aren't yet here, but are coming soon. In order for all that live video to sync up when the system is stitching it together, each piece of video from each phone requires a timecode, and of course all the timecodes on all the mobiles sending video have to be totally in sync. (Surprisingly, Kaheel says the bandwidth requirements are already met by most networks, needing only 200Kbps to be effective.)

I see this as a multifaceted glimpse at social video's future: Whether it's live or archived, stitching may prove to be a great way to turn all the crappy 24! 0x320 vi deo into a high-def tapestry worth watching.

Microsoft's TechFest is an annual jamboree of innovation and gadgetry from Microsoft Research, which means that while none of it is coming out as is in products in the near future, it's essentially what product development people use to add cool stuff to their actual releases.

OmniWeb Mac Browser Finally Released For Free [Browsers]

Source: http://feeds.gawker.com/~r/gizmodo/full/~3/rA3zJqKKM4c/omniweb-mac-browser-finally-released-for-free

Old, grizzled veterans of the browser wars (Blood! Honor! W3C Standards!) will remember OmniWeb, an expensive, Mac-only überbrowser that always seemed to be slightly ahead of everyone else. Well, it's free now.

A little background: OmniWeb is based on a slightly modified version of WebKit, but used to differentiate itself from other browsers with novel features. Ad blocking, tab previews, saved browsing sessions, inbuilt RSS reading, single-windows browsing and per-site preferences could once justify OmniWeb's price, but now most of these features, and plenty more, can be found in free browsers. That's not to say that OmniWeb isn't a good browser, but it'll have a extremely hard time facing up against our increasingly capable choices in free software—especially the fantastic Safari 4.

The Omni Group is also setting a few more applications free, but OmniWeb is the by far the juiciest. [Cult of Mac]

Reminder: If You Love Your Boxee, Turn Off Automatic Apple TV Updates [Apple TV]

Source: http://feeds.gawker.com/~r/gizmodo/full/~3/gRnhc82lOgk/reminder-if-you-love-your-boxee-turn-off-automatic-apple-tv-updates

Apple pushed a small Apple TV update to users last night, many of whom awoke to find their lovely, Hulu'd-despite-it-all Boxee installations brutally murdered. Again. Lesson: turn off automatic updates. [Slashgear]

Syba debuts RCG RC-VIS62002 pocket projector

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2009/02/25/syba-debuts-rcg-rc-vis62002-pocket-projector/

Its name may never be spoken aloud, but Syba's new RCG RC-VIS62002 pocket projector looks like it should at least get the job done for anyone in the market for a basic, not-quite-pico projector. As is par for the course with the more budget-minded models, this one packs a basic 640 x 480 native resolution (with "support" for XGA), along with a brightness rating of 10 ANSI lumens, a maximum projected image size of 40 inches from just over two feet away, and what seems to be the most basic of port selections: just VGA and composite. With a list price of $399, it's also not the cheapest pocket projector out there, but we suspect this one should see some discounts if and when it becomes more widely available.

[Via About Projectors]

Filed under: Displays

Syba debuts RCG RC-VIS62002 pocket projector originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 25 Feb 2009 05:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Data Copy and Internet Connection Sharing dongle explains itself

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2009/02/25/data-copy-and-internet-connection-sharing-dongle-explains-itself/

Every so often, one of these off-the-wall USB peripherals really does do something worth clapping about. Today, we're taking a look at one such outlier in the driver-free USB 2.0 Data Copy and Internet Connection Sharing Dongle. While not fancy in design, this here device sure promises a lot. For starters, it enables data transfers between PCs to be handled easily and efficiently, but the real kicker is its ability to give the second computer the option of siphoning internet from the first. Sure, there are more legitimate ways of sharing one's signal, but when you're in pinch, who has time to fiddle with the Networking control panel? It's just $29, and it could save your life. Think about it.

Continue reading Data Copy and Internet Connection Sharing dongle explains itself

Filed under: Peripherals

Data Copy and Internet Connection Sharing dongle explains itself originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 25 Feb 2009 06:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sony shows off its latest fuel cells and cola-powered batteries

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2009/02/25/sony-shows-off-its-latest-fuel-cells-and-cola-powered-batteries/

Sony shows off its latest fuel cells and cola-powered batteries

In two days the world's largest fuel cell exhibition, FC EXPO 2009, kicks off in Tokyo, and Sony will be there showing off the latest revision of its hybrid fuel cell technology. The system contains both a methanol fuel cell and a Li-on battery, enabling it to intelligently switch between power from the battery, fuel, or even both under high-draw circumstances. Sony will have two sizes on display: a portable model (above, with real leatherette lanyard) that could keep you talking on your celly for a week, and a heftier "interior" model that could do the same for a month. The company's even attached a bottle of methanol to a wireless speaker, resulting in infinite placement possibilities and a groovy light show to boot. If that weren't enough, the company will be demonstrating an updated, more efficient version of its sugar battery, which can be powered by plain 'ol Coca-Cola -- and you thought that stuff was only good for making your nephews run.

Filed under: Misc. Gadgets

Sony shows off its latest fuel cells and cola-powered batteries originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 25 Feb 2009 07:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Intel launches shapely new CPUs for slim new laptops

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2009/02/25/intel-launches-shapely-new-cpus-for-slim-new-laptops/

Intel launches shapely new CPUs for slim new laptops

Today's laptops are slim and trim (with some notable exceptions), and as smaller cases demand smaller components Intel is doing its best to keep up, announcing two new CPUs specifically designed for the "ultra-thin" notebooks. They are the 1.6GHz Core 2 Duo SU9600 and 1.4GHz Core 2 Solo SU3500, both joining its existing line of consumer ultra low voltage (CULV) chips to create three tiers of efficient and dainty processors: Celeron, single-core, and dual-core. No word on where these chips will be first making an appearance, but we can think of one upcoming lithe lappy in which they'd be right at home.

Filed under: Laptops

Intel launches shapely new CPUs for slim new laptops originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 25 Feb 2009 07:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Acer's Aspire One trims the fat, upcoming slimmer model pictured

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2009/02/25/acers-aspire-one-trims-the-fat-upcoming-slimmer-model-pictured/

Acer's Aspire One trims the fat, upcoming slimmer model pictured

At just over an inch thick it's hard to think of a little laptop like Acer's Aspire One as being chubby -- but that doesn't stop us from looking longingly at other, skinnier options in the pipeline. Apparently aware of our wandering eye, Acer is set to release a thinner model that, according to speculation, will buck the netbook storage trend by being SSD-only. Beyond that little is known about this streamlined portable, but you can be sure we'll be keeping an eye out for more info -- between fleeting glances at other hot arrivals, of course.

[Thanks, Chris]

Filed under: Laptops

Acer's Aspire One trims the fat, upcoming slimmer model pictured originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 25 Feb 2009 08:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Tuesday, February 24, 2009

SheevaPlug: A $99 Linux PC Crammed Inside a Wall Plug [Linux]

Source: http://feeds.gawker.com/~r/gizmodo/full/~3/DVsyIRl2HRI/sheevaplug-a-99-linux-pc-crammed-inside-a-wall-plug

Think about it—an inexpensive Linux PC crammed inside a wall-wart plug. Something like this SheevaPlug could open up a whole new framework of managing and sharing data that could be accessible to the masses.

Inside the SheevaPlug you will find a 1.2GHz, ARM-based Sheeva embedded processor, 512Mbytes of FLASH, 512Mbytes of DRAM, gigabit ethernet and a USB 2.0 port. Plug it into a wall socket and bam—a fully-functional Linux server that can store digital media accessible remotely via the internet or function as a remote print or web server. Plus, it supports "multiple standard Linux 2.6 kernel distributions" and it operates on only 5-watts of power. So running and developing software for the platform should be easy (and there should be substantial savings on your power bill).

Currently, open source tinkerers can get the $99 SheevaPlug development kit on the Marvell website. Several products based on the design (like the Pogoplug) are expected to arrive in the near future with price tags ranging from $79-$99. Eventually, Marvell expects the price for these devices to dip below $50. [Marvell and WSJ via Tech Report via Slashgear]

Intel rips into NVIDIA's Ion platform

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2009/02/24/intel-rips-into-nvidias-ion-platform/

Intel and NVIDIA aren't exactly hiding their differences with each other these days, and it doesn't look like that's about to change anytime soon, especially when it comes to NVIDIA's turf-encroaching Ion platform. According to a document apparently now making the rounds in some circles, Intel not only says that NVIDIA is simply reusing an integrated graphics chipset designed laptops and desktops, which will "in turn leads to higher costs as well as high power consumption," but that NVIDIA is overstating interest in Ion from OEMs, saying that "as of this writing, no customer has publicly disclosed plans to design Ion-based products." Intel reportedly further goes on to say that "NVIDIA's Ion HD playback may not be as good as NVIDIA claims," and even if Ion is more powerful, "neither gaming nor video transcoding are relevant to netbook and nettop users." As if that wasn't enough, Intel closes things out by saying that since it'll be releasing its own update platform by the end of the year, "the window of opportunity for Ion is very short." Of course, there's still no indication that any of this will lead to a hard break between Intel and NVIDIA, although NVIDIA does at least now have VIA to fall back on.

Filed under: Desktops, Laptops

Intel rips into NVIDIA's Ion platform originally a! ppeared on Engadget on Tue, 24 Feb 2009 12:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BackupURL Takes Snapshots of Web Pages [Web Clipping]

Source: http://feeds.gawker.com/~r/lifehacker/full/~3/UNz5SEjVi-Y/backupurl-takes-snapshots-of-web-pages

Web page archiving site BackupURL takes point-in-time snapshots of web pages on demand—useful for capturing and sharing fast-changing web pages.

To create a snapshot, simply go to BackupURL, paste in the link to the page, and click the Backup button to generate the cached copy, which is accessible from an already-shortened URL. The web application is very simple, and the lack of information makes it questionable for long-term archiving, but it could be very useful for saving a quick copy of a constantly changing news site for sharing with others.

For a similar service with more features (although requiring a browser extension), check out previously mentioned Iterasi, or you can save a web page as an image with PageSaver.

BackupURL [via Download Squad]

Firefox Mobile (aka Fennec) Will Sync Tabs with Firefox on Your Desktop [Fennec]

Source: http://feeds.gawker.com/~r/lifehacker/full/~3/iZZVObCDIys/firefox-mobile-aka-fennec-will-sync-tabs-with-firefox-on-your-desktop

Mozilla Labs highlights a very cool feature coming to Fennec, the mobile version of Firefox: Fennec now syncs browser tabs with previously mentioned Weave, so you can easily access any of the pages you were browsing on your desktop installation of Firefox from your mobile browser. Handy! [Mozilla Labs]

CleVR Creates Photo Panoramas with Ease [Downloads]

Source: http://feeds.gawker.com/~r/lifehacker/full/~3/vqZdaqpKJ1w/clevr-creates-photo-panoramas-with-ease

Windows/Mac/Linux: We've shown you how to stitch photos into panoramas once before, but with new Adobe AIR app and web site CleVR, you get dead simple drag-and-drop photo stitching and sharing tool.

To get started with CleVR, you'll need to sign up for an account at their web site and then download the Adobe AIR app. From there, just drag and drop photos into the stitching tool, define some hotspots, and start stitching. When you've finished your masterpiece, you can save your progress or upload and share the panorama. Very cool!

If you give it a try, share your results in the comments. CleVR is a free download for all platforms, requires Adobe AIR.

CleVR [via MakeUseOf]

XML Notepad 2007 is a Simple, Smart Editor for Web Code [Downloads]

Source: http://feeds.gawker.com/~r/lifehacker/full/~3/UZOFgzF4FbQ/xml-notepad-2007-is-a-simple-smart-editor-for-web-code

Windows only: If you're delving into XML programming for the first time, or want to tweak a few software files, Microsoft's XML Notepad 2007 may be the no-nonsense editor you're looking for.

It's not a beginner's tool due to lack of features or context—we're just assuming that most full-time or experienced programmers have their own platform preference for editing all sorts of code. XML Notepad 2007 is themed around the same kind of just-the-text-ma'am simplicity of Windows' Notepad, but does add relevant features for markup language hacking.

The left-hand pane breaks an XML document into a tree view of classes, tags, and their key values. All the text is color-matched to its identifier on the left, and writing in Tree View allows you to leave all the tag containers behind. If you want to see what your raw XML looks like, click "XSL Output," and you'll see what Internet Explorer would see when checking out the file. Copying and pasting are modified to ensure the nodes you shuffle around keep their contexts, and, well, that's about it for basic features. There's more to find in XML Notepad, but nothing more is required to get started.

XML editing gives one all kinds of powers over a system. We've detailed how XML tweaking can get your Firefox passwords into KeePass, help you roll your own timeline, and, to get your next level-up, build your own Firefox extension.

XML Notepad 2007 is a free download for Windows systems only.

XML Notepad [via Online Tech Tips]

Elecom MicroSD Reader Is a Barely Noticeable Nub [MicroSD]

Source: http://feeds.gawker.com/~r/gizmodo/full/~3/lj_10lXUmdw/elecom-microsd-reader-is-a-barely-noticeable-nub

Elecom's MicroSD USB reader takes advantage of the storage format's miniature size to ensure that the only thing poking out of your computer is a colorful— and dare I say stylish— little nub.

The MR-SMC03 is so small that it kind of looks more like a USB hole stopper than a media reader. To use it, you slip your microSD card into the top part of the usb stick and then plug it into your computer. It's available in cherry pink, Azuria pink, black and white for roughly $13... from Japan only for now. [Elecom via Gizmodo Japan]

AMD Phenom II Quad Core Reviewed: Great Today, But Tomorrow's Cloudy [CPUs]

Source: http://feeds.gawker.com/~r/gizmodo/full/~3/_nJDaFRVb2k/amd-phenom-ii-quad-core-reviewed-great-today-but-tomorrows-cloudy

Ars reviews AMD's latest quad-core, the Phenom II, against a barrage of Intel chips and finds that while it "puts AMD back on the map" against today's chips, AMD's got a "long-term problem." [Ars Technica]

OS X Running on a Sony Vaio P? [Unconfirmed]

Source: http://feeds.gawker.com/~r/gizmodo/full/~3/QPvMQ9cIqiI/os-x-running-on-a-sony-vaio-p

If this somewhat dubious photo is to be believed, a Pocketables.net forum poster has successfully booted OS X on a Vaio P. He claims that much of the hardware doesn't work yet, though.

As you know from our Dell Mini 9 Hackintosh guide, hardware support is everything-a netbook running OS X with no networking, sound or graphics at the native resolution is certainly no fun, which is why the Mini 9 is one of the best netbooks for Hackintoshing.

My first question with this photo is-where is the ~~task~~ menu bar? (thank you commenters for helping avert this horrible disaster this morning!) And why not release more detailed information on the process, Mr. DaHarder? Anyway, if this eventually pans out, the Vaio P would be a fun OS X machine. Fingers crossed. {Pocketables via BBG]

Forthcoming UMID M2 already dancing on M1's spotlight

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2009/02/23/forthcoming-umid-m2-already-dancing-on-m1s-spotlight/

In today's world, it's a pretty safe bet that revision two is already on the drawing board by the time revision one hits the market. That said, it's still somewhat embarrassing for UMID that we already have leaked proof that the M2 is on the way to replace the just-barely-official M1. Judging by a purported roadmap, the MID M2 will be smaller than 3-inches and will boast calling capabilities. Furthermore, it'll support HSPA, WiMAX and a slew of other wireless protocols (or at least some of 'em), but we wouldn't expect to see more of it until late 2009. Unless UMID wants to completely cannibalize sales of that M1, of course.

Filed under: Handhelds

Forthcoming UMID M2 already dancing on M1's spotlight originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 23 Feb 2009 19:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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SSD-equipped netbooks getting cheaper?

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2009/02/23/ssd-equipped-netbooks-getting-cheaper/

We know, we know -- it's just the natural evolution of technology, right? With Intel just recently slashing the MSRP on its 80GB SSD, not to mention to scads of others ratcheting things down as well, it's not shocking to hear that SSD-equipped netbooks are becoming all the more affordable. DigiTimes has it that demand for SSD-based 8.9-inch netbooks in particular are clogging up sales channels, which is forcing companies to move them (at least in Taiwan) for lower-than-advertised amounts. Of course, we're still betting it takes a month or so before these elusive price drops make their way to America, but keep a close eye out for sudden discounts if you're in the market.

[Via GadgetMix]

Filed under: Laptops, Storage

SSD-equipped netbooks getting cheaper? originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 23 Feb 2009 22:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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MSI X-Slim X340 hands-on

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2009/02/23/msi-x-slim-x340-hands-on/

Engadget Chinese managed to score some face time with MSI's new X-Slim X340 at a pre-CeBIT press event today, and we're seriously impressed -- just like the Atom-based X320, the X340 weighs just 2.8 pounds with a four-cell battery and 1366 x 768 13.4-inch screen, but it's got more horsepower with a ULV Penryn chip and GMA4500 graphics with HDMI out. Not bad, especially if this thing comes in under $1000 like we've heard -- we'll keep an eye out while you check out the rest of the pics in the gallery.

Gallery: MSI X-Slim X340 hands-on

Filed under: Laptops

MSI X-Sl! im X340 hands-on originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 23 Feb 2009 22:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Dell Studio 15 with HD screen and Mobility Radeon HD 4570 graphics lands in Singapore

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2009/02/24/dell-studio-15-with-hd-screen-and-mobility-radeon-hd-4570-graphi/

We first caught wind of an updated Dell Studio 15 when drivers for a 1555 model with ATI Mobility Radeon HD 4570 graphics popped up on Dell's support site, and surprise -- Dell Singapore's gone and posted specs and pricing. The 1555 gets more than just a GPU boost to a 512MB 4570, it's also scoring a new 15.6-inch WLED 1366 x 768 screen, so you can actually watch some of that high-def media at an appropriate res. The basic config nets you all the new stuff plus a 2.4GHz P8600 Core 2 Duo, 3GB of RAM and a 250GB drive for S$1,599 ($1,044), which is actually a pretty stellar deal -- let's hope this bad boy makes it Stateside, and soon.

[Thanks, Karthik]

Filed under: Laptops

Dell Studio 15 with HD screen and Mobility Radeon HD 4570 graphics lands in Singapore originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 24 Feb 2009 00:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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MSI Wind Box DC100 hands-on

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2009/02/24/msi-wind-box-dc100-hands-on/

MSI was showing off its latest Wind Box at the same pre-CeBIT press event Engadget Chinese caught the X-Slim X340 at, and man -- looks like someone at MSI was studying up on the ASUS Eee Box. Nothing you don't know about the internals here: 1.6GHz Atom N270, 1GB of RAM, a 160GB hard drive, same as the other Wind Box -- but it's seriously tiny. No word on pricing or a US release date, but we'll keep an ear to the ground. One more shot after the break.

Continue reading MSI Wind Box DC100 hands-on

Filed under: Desktops

MSI Wind Box DC100 hands-on originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 24 Feb 2009 00:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Foam-infused Impress DIS.PLAY encourages touching

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2009/02/24/foam-infused-impress-dis-play-encourages-touching/

Move over Surface, we just found our next tabletop display. The aptly named DIS.PLAY beautifully merges the functionality of a touch panel with the allure of dimly-lit scenarios, and the inclusion of memory foam just makes it all the more sweet. In one usage scenario, we're told that objects could be put into motion with sound, and when a certain "shape" is mashed and deformed, the respective audio would bend along with it. Another instance showcased 3D modeling that could be varied by simply twisting the hand or intensifying a finger press. Check the demonstration video after the break, and grab your Tempur-Pedic pillow if you're looking to play along.

[Via KanYeWestBlog, thanks DellAppleFan24]

Continue reading Foam-infused Impress DIS.PLAY encourages touching

Filed under: Displays

Foam-infused Impress DIS.PLAY encourages touching originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 24 Feb 2009 07:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Video: 3D Eye Tracking from TAT, the guys behind the T-Mobile G1 UI

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2009/02/24/video-3d-eye-tracking-from-tat-the-guys-behind-the-t-mobile-g1/

Ever notice the word "Malmo" emblazoned across the face of Android's analog clock widget? That's a subtle nod to the city where the Swedish design team called TAT (The Astonishing Tribe) is headquartered -- a group of nerds responsible for finessing the look and feel of the T-Mobile G1's user interface including such innovations as the window shade menu and 9-point visual key-lock. In fact, TAT's software prowess can be seen on the Samsung Instinct, S60 handsets from Nokia, and a variety of devices from Motorola and Sony Ericsson. So when TAT releases a new "3Deyetracking UI" concept that lets you see behind on-screen objects, well, you can bet that the entire cellphone industry is paying attention. Check the video after the break.

Read -- TAT's industry influence

Continue reading Video: 3D Eye Tracking from TAT, the guys behind the T-Mobile G1 UI

Filed under: Cellphones

Video: 3D Eye Tracking from TAT, the guys behind the T-Mobile G1 UI originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 24 Feb 2009 08:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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$100 EyeClops Mini Projector announced for untatered tots

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2009/02/24/100-eyeclops-mini-projector-announced-for-untatered-tots/

We knew it was coming, and sure enough Jakks Pacific just introduced its EyeClops Mini Projector for a penny shy of $100. Still light on specs, we can tell you that the palm-sized, LED projector features built-in speakers and up to 10 hours of operation off an unspecified number of D batteries when away from the mains. As to the quality, well, you typically get what you pay for and this pup is targeting a demographic of ages 8 and above -- 'nuff said. Look for it to ship sometime in the Fall.

Filed under: Displays

$100 EyeClops Mini Projector announced for untatered tots originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 24 Feb 2009 10:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Mini microphone spruces up voice recording possibilities on iPhone / iPods

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2009/02/24/mini-microphone-spruces-up-voice-recording-possibilities-on-ipho/

Not that this is the very first microphone designed to function with Apple's iPhone or anything, but it's certainly amongst the cheapest and most universal that we've seen. The Mini Microphone reportedly plays nice with the iPhone 3G, iPod touch and iPod nano, giving 'em all that extra special voice recording oomph that's so badly needed. The best part(s)? It's only $14.99, and it's barely bigger than a valve stem cover to boot.

[Thanks, Junior]

Filed under: Cellphones, Portable Audio

Mini microphone spruces up voice recording possibilities on iPhone / iPods originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 24 Feb 2009 10:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Monday, February 23, 2009

Sigma DP2 shows itself in pre-production form

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2009/02/23/sigma-dp2-shows-itself-in-pre-production-form/

Sigma hasn't had a whole lot to say about its DP1 follow-up, the DP2, since it announced it last fall, but it looks to have pulled out all, or most of the stops for the Focus on Imaging trade show in Birmingham this week, where it has a fully functional pre-production model on hand. As you can see above, the camera doesn't stray very far at all from the straightforwardness of the DP1 in terms of appearance, but the folks at SigmaUser did find quite a few less immediately noticeable differences once they got to check it out up close, including an improved grip and larger thumb rest area, a new startup / shutdown screen, an improved menu system and, ISO settings right up to 3200, among other promised improvements. Hit up the read link below for a closer look.

[Via 1001 Noisy Cameras]

Filed under: Digital Cameras

Sigma DP2 shows itself in pre-production form originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 23 Feb 2009 12:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Beambox launches Evolution R-1 pico projector

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2009/02/23/beambox-launches-evolution-r-1-pico-projector/

You may recall Beambox as the company that brought us the very tiny Beambox Pocket Projector. Well, its newest model, the just-announced Evolution R-1 is not quite as compact (though it's still pretty tiny), but it looks like it will pack a lot more punch than its predecessor. The R-1 will boast an LCoS chip, a brightness of 30 lumens, with a 200:1 contrast ratio and VGA (640 x 480) resolution, and will be capable of projecting an up to 100-inch image. The little guy will also have up to 4GB of onboard Flash memory, plus a microSD slot. The pico -- which weighs in at 175 grams -- is expected to ship around March 20th. It looks like the projector is going to run you £250 ($360), and be available in black, red, silver and white. One more shot after the break.

Continue reading Beambox launches Evolution R-1 pico projector

Filed under: Displays

Beambox launches Evolution R-1 pico projector originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 23 Feb 2009 12:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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World gets updated Samsung P3, US still gets none

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2009/02/23/world-gets-updated-samsung-p3-us-still-gets-none/

World gets updated Samsung P3, US gets none

It was hard to give back Samsung's P3 after caressing it for a few moments at CES, knowing we'd be sadly separated for at least a few months waiting for an indeterminate release date sometime before July. Today that official arrival is still just as vague, but now our hearts yearn just a little more with Samsung updating and extending the functionality of the player, adding the ability to play native resolution 800 x 600 video, enabling support for video subtitles in SMIs, adding mosaic browsing for videos, and throwing in a fun little drawing application to boot. A full (and jazzy) video breakdown of the new features is embedded below, which people on the fence about S9 now or P3 later won't want to miss.

Continue reading World gets updated Samsung P3, US still gets none

Filed under: Portable Audio, Portable Video

World gets updated Samsung P3, US still gets none originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 23 Feb 2009 09:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Dell's Mini 10 comes with any amount of RAM you want, so long as it's 1GB

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2009/02/23/dells-mini-10-comes-with-any-amount-of-ram-you-want-so-long-as/

Dell's Mini 10 comes with any amount of RAM you want, so long as it's 1GB

The case of the Mini 10 just gets curiouser and curiouser. The company finally acknowledged the red-lidded QVC stepchild on its site just last week, but before that quietly mentioned an interesting bit of information on its official blog: the 1GB of memory figure that seemed like just a start is actually the end, too. The RAM in the first batch (or possibly batches) of Mini 10 models will be non-upgradable, and while we don't know why a company that built itself on allowing people to customize computers would prevent them from upgrading their netbooks, we are sure this won't be a popular move. Additionally, the first Mini 10's will all be running XP, though Ubuntu will be coming, as well as an optional 720P display and even a TV tuner. That all sounds fantastic, but after waiting through all this is anyone going to wait longer still for a proper-spec'd machine?

[Thanks, Eric]

Filed under: Laptops

Dell's Mini 10 comes with any amount of RAM you want, so long as it's 1GB originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 23 Feb 2009 10:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Gigabyte plans CeBIT debut for M1022, M1024 and M1028 netbooks

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2009/02/23/gigabyte-plans-cebit-debut-for-m1022-m1024-and-m1028-netbooks/

We already knew that Gigabyte was planning to wow onlookers in Hanover with its touchscreen convertible netbook (that'd be the M1028; pictured), but now we're finding that it'll be joined by two others when things get kicked off around a week from now. Reportedly, two other 10-inch netbooks will be showcased to the world at CeBIT: the M1022 and the Atom N270-equipped M1024. It's said that the latter will simply be a thinner and lighter version of the M1028, while the M1022 will get gifted with Intel's newer N280 processor. Beyond that, details are few and far between, but hopefully we'll get all up in their system profiles in a few days.

Filed under: Laptops

Gigabyte plans CeBIT debut for M1022, M1024 and M1028 netbooks originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 23 Feb 2009 10:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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