Dr. Augustine Fou's Online Scrapbook

Wednesday, August 29, 2012

TiVo Stream transcoder officially set to go on sale September 6th for $129

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2012/08/29/tivo-stream-transcoder/

A bit of early access for pre-orders blew the surprise, but TiVo has officially announced that its Stream transcoder device will hit stores on September 6th. Priced at $130 the feature set should be familiar by now: plug it into a home network that also has a TiVo Premiere series DVR connected to it, and it takes in live or recorded programming and reformats it for viewing on a mobile device. Currently those mobile devices are limited to the iOS family, but TiVo says Android access is coming. According to the company, the Stream is the first device to allow streaming and recording to as many as four devices without interrupting what's currently being viewed on the TV.

Comparing it to the others, live streaming or VOD in and out of the home on mobile devices is a feature several cable / satellite companies offer, Dish Network has tight Sling integration for streaming in multiple locations, and both DirecTV's Nomad and the Monsoon Vulkano boxes do place-shifting, the a combination of features plus a familiar TiVo UI puts the Stream in the lead, at least on paper. We're testing one now and should have a better handle on its strengths and weaknesses soon -- while you await our comprehensive review, check out the details and specs in the press release afte! r the br eak.

Continue reading TiVo Stream transcoder officially set to go on sale September 6th for $129

Filed under: Home Entertainment, HD

TiVo Stream transcoder officially set to go on sale September 6th for $129 originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 29 Aug 2012 11:25:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Sony unveils top of the line HX95 HDTV for Europe at IFA 2012

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2012/08/29/sony-unveils-top-of-the-line-hx95-hdtv-for-europe-at-ifa-2012/

Sony unveils top of the line HX95 HDTV for Europe at IFA 2012

Sony's latest and greatest HDTV popped up in Japan earlier and now it has made its European debut as the HX95 series at IFA 2012. We're not seeing pricing information or a release date listed, but the benefit of a native English press release confirms it features full LED backlighting as well as the company's latest image processing technology. All that's left now is to find out any US release details, we'll see if we get any more information today or have to wait until CEDIA 2012 next week. In the meantime, check the PR after the break and browse through a gallery of sweet images showing off the slim monolithic design.

Gallery: Sony HX95 / HX950 HDTV

Continue reading Sony unveils top of the line HX95 HDTV for Europe at IFA 2012

Filed! under: Displays, Home Entertainment, HD

Sony unveils top of the line HX95 HDTV for Europe at IFA 2012 originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 29 Aug 2012 12:35:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | source

source

Sony Europe | Email this | Comments

Fujitsu outs Esprimo X all-in-one at IFA 2012: Windows 8, adjustable display, Intel vPro Core CPUs

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2012/08/29/fujitsu-outs-esprimo-x-all-in-one-at-ifa-2012-windows-8-adjust/

Fujitsu's keeping its IFA 2012 presence relatively low-key, holding off on any new major tablet or mobile announcements. So while we may have already seen its Windows 8 Stylistic Q702 and LifeBook T902 in Hong Kong last week, there is still one product the company's trotting out here in Berlin: the Esprimo X. Planned for a late year launch, this All-in-one also runs Redmond's latest OS and packs Intel's third-generation vPro chipset (up to Core i5 configurations) for the enterprise set. The slim PC features an adjustable touch display, which can even be laid out completely flat across any surface, a proximity sensor for power saving management, in addition to face recognition tech for an added layer of security. No other details on this AIO have yet to be disclosed -- the company's retaining those fuller spec bits for its release -- so stay tuned for our first impressions from the showfloor.

Filed under: Desktops

Fujitsu outs Esprimo X all-in-one at IFA 2012: Windows 8, adjustable display, Intel vPro Core CPUs originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 29 Aug 2012 12:38:00 EDT. Please see o! ur terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Tuesday, August 28, 2012

Gogo gets the green light to provide in-flight WiFi over Canada

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2012/08/28/gogo-in-flight-wifi-canada/

Folks over in the US of A have been utilizing Gogo's up-in-the-air wireless amenities for quite some time now, which isn't something we can say about our dear neighbors from The Great White North -- unless, of course, you count the company's current Aircell's Gogo Biz service. That said, Gogo's finally received the go-ahead to bring its in-flight WiFi goods to both commercial and business planes that are traveling within Canada and cross-border to the States, allowing the internet provider to deliver "seamless service" all-around. According to Gogo, the network will be fully operational by the end of next year, with the company assuring fellow Canadians that they, too, can "soon experience the same technology that has a proven track record of performance and reliability in the U.S." Hit the PR below to delve into the formal nitty-gritty.

Continue reading Gogo gets the green light to provide in-flight WiFi over Canada

Filed under: Transportation, Wireless

Gogo gets the green light to provide in-flight WiFi over Canada originally appeared on En! gadget on Tue, 28 Aug 2012 15:31:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | source

source

Gogo | Email this | Comments

Sphero gets a firmware upgrade and new apps, we get another look at its Augmented Reality Engine (video)

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2012/08/28/sphero-firmware-upgrade-new-apps-augmented-reality/

You remember Sphero, right? Last we checked in with its creators from Orbotix at E3, the $130 robotic ball was getting ready to act as a 3D controller and the guide point for an Augmented Reality Engine. This week, along with the release of a firmware upgrade, a few new free apps have been released, including two that'll let you use that 3D controller functionality. Better yet, Orbotix has given us a sneak peek at the progress it's made on the AGR since we last checked it out. Join us past the break if you're curious to find out more.

Continue reading Sphero gets a firmware upgrade and new apps, we get another look at its Augmented Reality Engine (video)

Filed under: Misc, Gaming, Peripherals

Sphero gets a firmware upgrade and new apps, we get another look at its Augmented Reality Engine (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 28 Aug 2012 13:12:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Mild-mannered Samsung Galaxy S II update brings Isis mobile payment support

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2012/08/28/t-mobile-gs-ii-isis-update/

Mobile payments, those made from a phone and typically via NFC, haven't exactly had a huge impact on the average American consumer just yet, but look past that and you'll see a battle is brewing. Google had been making the most noise, with its Google Wallet, but today the competing service Isis just launched its first proper salvo. The T-Mobile version of the Galaxy S II is currently receiving an OTA update (T989UVLH1) that, among a few other tweaks, enables support for Isis NFC payments, making it the first such device on the market. Many more are inbound from AT&T and Verizon as well, setting the stage for an epic virtual currency battle that only the peaceniks at the Mobile Payments Committee stand a chance of mitigating.

Filed under: Cellphones, Mobile

Mild-mannered Samsung Galaxy S II update brings Isis mobile payment support originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 28 Aug 2012 13:37:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | source

source

Android Police | Email this | Comments

AMD FX-4130 delivers 3.8GHz quad-core on a budget, A-Series chips get even cheaper

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2012/08/28/amd-fx-4130-delivers-3-8ghz-quad-core-on-a-budget/

If you're building a starter desktop to get ready for school, you'll be glad to know that AMD is squeaking just a little more value for the dollar out of its processors. The new quad-core FX-4130 takes a 200MHz hop forward from its predecessor to a 3.8GHz base speed, and ramps up to 3.9GHz if it's feeling frisky. While it's thirstier than the earlier FX-4100 at 125W of maximum power draw, the unlocked chip's $112 retail cost is a potential sweet spot for those tailoring a system to a strict price. Anyone willing to trade overclocking support for yet more of a savings will be glad to know that AMD has been slashing the prices of its Fusion-based A-Series chips at the same time: the across-the-board cuts bring even the 2.9GHz A8-3850 down to $91. No breaks exist here for the performance crowd, alas, but AMD's new proposition might be just the excuse needed to build that budget Windows 8 PC.

Filed under: Desktops

AMD FX-4130 delivers 3.8GHz quad-core on a budget, A-Series chips get even cheaper originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 28 Aug 2012 14:21:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

< a href="http://www.engadget.com/2012/08/28/amd-fx-4130-delivers-3-8ghz-quad-core-on-a-budget/" rel="bookmark" title="Permanent link to this entry">Permalink | source

source

AMD (FX), (A-Series) | Email this | Comments

Water Powered Nano Rockets Can Safely Explore the Human Body [Science]

Source: http://gizmodo.com/5938437/water-powered-nano-rockets-can-safely-explore-the-human-body

Water Powered Nano Rockets Can Safely Explore the Human Body The idea of targeting a specific part of the human body with a microscopic rocket carrying a payload of medication has been tossed around for a while. And working nano-sized rockets have already been created, the only problem is that they're powered by chemicals like hydrogen peroxide which will do more harm than good for a patient.

But a team of researchers at the University of California, San Diego, have developed a new kind of micromotor made of an aluminum-gallium alloy that's propelled by hydrogen gas produced by a chemical reaction between the aluminum and water. In pure H2O the rockets—which measure in at a mere 20 micrometers in diameter—can travel as fast as three millimeters per second. But that speed is reduced in denser salt solutions or blood. And while the chemical reaction that propels it is safe for humans, the rocket itself isn't as it dissolves away less than a minute later. So while the Tylenollo 11 isn't ready for launch just yet, this is an important step towards making this technology a viable tool.

Water Powered Nano Rockets Can Safely Explore the Human Body

[C&EN via Slashdot]

Former Rdio software engineer joins Google's Project Glass team

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2012/08/28/former-rdio-engineer-joins-google-project-glass/

There's still quite a few months before those lucky early adopters can get their eager hands (and eyes) on Google's Explorer Edition set of wearables, but in the meantime, the company's not wasting any time and is building up its team to have the frames as loaded as can be. One of the latest additions to Mountain View's Project Glass squad is former Rdio and Danger software engineer Ian McKellar -- who'd previously worked on the streaming service's API, among other things. Mum's the word on what exactly he'll be tinkering with at the Project Glass laboratories, though we can't imagine it'll be anything short of amazing. In case you'd like to dive into his thoughts a little more, you can check out his tweet on the matter at the link below.

Filed under: Misc, Wearables, Software

Former Rdio software engineer joins Google's Project Glass team originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 28 Aug 2012 07:44:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

SlashGear | source

source

Ian McKellar (Twitter) | Email this | Comments

LG EA93 21:9 aspect ratio 29-inch LCD spotted on IFA show floor (eyes-on)

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2012/08/28/lg-ea93-21-9-lcd-eyes-on/

Fancy a wickedly wide 21:9 aspect ratio LCD that's more than a touch larger than what you'll find on that unique Toshiba Ultrabook? It looks like LG's got you covered, with its 29-inch EA93. We spotted a half dozen of the ultra-wide IPS displays during a preview of the show floor at IFA, and were able to grab a few frames. You need to see this LCD in person to get a feel for just how wide it really is -- with a 29-inch diagonal panel that's incredibly short and squat, you'll be compromising quite a bit of desk real estate in order to add some horizontal pixels.

From booth materials, it seems that LG is promoting this product as a multitasking solution -- the format is well-suited as a replacement for dual-monitor rigs, letting you view several windows at once without adjusting your eyes vertically. We already had a solid grasp on the EA93's specs, which include a 2,560 x 1,080-pixel panel, a four-way split screen feature and plenty of inputs, including two HDMI ports, DVI Dual Link and DisplayPort, though the product placard also revealed USB 3.0 connectivity and 7-watt stereo speakers. Pricing has yet to be confirmed, but if you're prepared to add such a device at any cost, we'd suggest clearing some desk space now -- these are set to ship in November.

Filed under: Displays

LG EA93 21:9 aspect ratio 29-inch LCD spotted on IFA! show fl oor (eyes-on) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 28 Aug 2012 08:08:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Maingear Solo 21 receives a makeover, $899 all-in-one PC is now fully upgradable

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2012/08/28/maingear-solo-21-all-in-one-pc-is-now-upgradable/

Back in March, Maingear entered the world of the all-in-one PC with the utilitarian Solo 21. Even though the unit is now only five months old, it's being replaced with a model that's more attractive, more functional and that carries a lower price. We're most excited that the redesigned Solo 21 is now fully upgradable -- and yes, this includes the Mini-ITX motherboard itself. Available from $899 on up, the baseline configuration includes a 3.3GHz Intel Core i3 2125 CPU (Ivy Bridge), 4GB of RAM, 500GB of storage, a DVD burner, Bluetooth, WiFi and Windows 7 Home Premium. The Solo 21 also supports mSATA SSD storage and can also be outfitted with Blu-ray in place of the standard DVD configuration. You'll also find it supports the VESA mount, should you decide to throw the PC on your wall. If you'd like to become a bit better acquainted with Maingear's latest refresh, you'll find the full PR after the break.

Gallery: Maingear Solo 21 all-in-one PC receives a makeover

Continue reading Maingear Solo 21 receives a makeover, $899 all-in-one PC is now fully upgradable

Filed under: Desktops

Maingear Solo 21 receives a makeover, $899 all-in-one PC is now fully upgradable originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 28 Aug 2012 09:00:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Spherical glass lens concentrates sunlight by up to 10,000 times, boosts solar cell efficiency

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2012/08/28/spherical-glass-lens-solar-energy-generator/

Eking out more power from solar cells is an ongoing challenge for scientists, and now architect André Broessel has developed a spherical glass energy generator that's said to improve efficiency by 35 percent. Acting as a lens, the rig's large water-filled orb concentrates diffused daylight or moonlight onto a solar cell with the help of optical tracking to harvest electricity. In certain configurations, the apparatus can be used for solar thermal energy generation and even water heating. In addition to the oversized globe, Broessel has cooked up a mobile version of the contraption for domestic use and an array of much smaller ball lenses with dual-axis tracking that offers 40 percent efficiency. These devices aren't the first venture into concentrated photovoltaics, but they are likely among the most visually impressive. If the Barcelona-based architect's vision of the future comes true, you'll be seeing these marbles incorporated into buildings and serving as standalone units. Hit the source links below for the picture spread of prototypes and renders.

Filed under: Alt

Spherical glass lens concentrates sunlight by up to 10,000 times, boosts solar cell efficiency originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 28 Aug 2012 09:22:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Gizmodo | source

source

Designboom, Rawlemon | Email this | Comments

Paper-Thin, Distortion-Free Lenses Could Make Pint-Sized Pro Cameras Possible [Guts]

Source: http://gizmodo.com/5938161/paper+thin-distortion+free-lenses-could-make-pint+sized-pro-cameras-possible

Using an ultrathin wafer of silicon and gold to focus lightwaves, researchers at the Harvard School of Engineering and Applied Sciences have created a revolutionary new kind of camera lens that completely eliminates the image distortion created by traditional glass lenses. It could not only pave the way for lighter cameras that are still as capable as today's swappable lens models, but even cameraphones that snap images as impressive as a DSLR.

The lens measures in at a mere 60 nanometers thick, so for all intents and purposes it's almost just a 2D object. (But not quite.) It's made by plating a thin wafer of silicon with a layer of gold that's then etched away to create a series of V-shaped structures across its surface. When light hits these structures it's slowed ever so slightly which changes its direction—like the glass in a traditional lens does. And by carefully tuning the angle, size, and spacing of these V-shaped structures across the surface of the lens, it can capture wide-angle or telephoto images without the distortion that's seen from something like a traditional fish-eye lens.

Mirrorless swappable lens cameras have already taken a bite out of the DSLR's market share, but if and when this technology hits the market it could serve as a death blow to the heavy bulky cameras preferred by professional photographers.

[Harvard School of Engineering and Applied Sciences via Phys.org via PetaPixel]

Image by Francesco Aieta

Leaked Specs of the Samsung Galaxy Note 2 Show an Even More Gigantic Screen [Samsung]

Source: http://gizmodo.com/5938325/leaked-specs-of-the-samsung-galaxy-note-2-show-an-even-more-gigantic-screen

Leaked Specs of the Samsung Galaxy Note 2 Show an Even More Gigantic Screen If you were one of the weirdos who looked at the original Galaxy Note and thought, "Oh man, I would totally buy the shit out of that huge phone if it was more huger", you're in luck: leaked specs of the upcoming Samsung Galaxy Note 2 show a 5.5" screen. That's .2 of an inch bigger than small fry original Galaxy Note!

Seoul Newspaper in South Korea claims that the Galaxy Note 2 will have a 5.5-inch 1280 x 720 display, 1.4GHz quadcore processor, 8 megapixel camera and your usual 3G/4G and 16GB/32GB options. Supposedly, the Galaxy Note 2 will be running Jelly Bean off the bat and not the older ICS.

Leaked Specs of the Samsung Galaxy Note 2 Show an Even More Gigantic Screen As for when it'll be available, Samsung is planning to officially announce the Note 2 on August 29th. Mark it on your calendars my big phone loving friends. [Seoul via Slashgear]

LG preps 21:9 aspect ratio EA93 and WQHD EA83 series IPS LCD monitors for debut at IFA 2012

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2012/08/27/lg-ea93-ultrawidescreen-ea83-wqhd-monitor/

It's tradeshow season and as is its custom, LG is bringing monitors packed with its latest and greatest display technology to show off. Just announced ahead of IFA 2012 are the EA93 and EA83 IPS LCDs, with the former aimed at entertainment / multitasking and the latter targeting graphics, video and photography pros. The EA93 is a 29-inch 21:9 aspect ratio ultrawidescreen (2560 x 1080) display with a thin bezel designed to immerse the viewer in the content. It can handle a 4-way split screen and connections via DVI Dual Link, DisplayPort, or HDMI with MHL support. The 27-inch EA83's claim to fame is its 2560 x 1440 WQHD resolution that brings four times the pixel count of 1280 x 720 panels and 99 percent Adobe RGB accuracy. There's no word on the price tag for either of these, but they should start shipping in November.

Continue reading LG preps 21:9 aspect ratio EA93 and WQHD EA83 series IPS LCD monitors for debut at IFA 2012

Filed under: Displays

LG preps 21:9 aspect ratio EA93 and WQHD EA83 series IPS LCD monitors for debut at IFA 2012 originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 27 Aug 2012 23:42:00 EDT. Please see our terms for ! use of f eeds.

Permalink | source

source

LG | Email this | Comments

Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)