Sony Alpha DSLR-A200 full review and video tour
The Alpha A200 is Sony's new entry-level DSLR and the successor to its debut model, the best-selling Alpha A100. It features the same 10.2 Megapixel CCD sensor as its predecessor, but squeezes it into a smaller and lighter body; there's still room though for the built-in stabilisation to counteract camera shake. Sony's also increased the sensitivity to 3200 ISO, accelerated the AF by 1.7 times, enlarged the screen to 2.7in and employed an InfoLithium battery for accurate feedback. Today though the entry-level DSLR market has never been tougher, so to see how the latest Alpha compares against its predecessor and the current crop of rivals, check out our Sony A200 review, and for a demo of its features, see our Sony A200 video tour.
Monday, September 29, 2008
Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 First Thoughts
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 was officially launched in Europe this week. We took the opportunity during the launch event to do some shooting with a pre-production G1. Read More
Canon's 5D Mark II could shake-up the camcorder market
Canon's 5D Mark II could shake-up the camcorder market
A short film made on the Canon 5D Mark II has got many video enthusiasts rather excited.
A short film made on the Canon 5D Mark II has got many video enthusiasts rather excited.
Fast and Furious - New Movie coming `09.
Fast and Furious - New Movie coming `09.
This looks like they have gone back to the basic formula and blown it all up, hopefully they haven't worried too much about the story line, and mainly focused on the action, but I think this should be a pretty good watch especially considering the budget they likely have. looking forward to it. 
This looks like they have gone back to the basic formula and blown it all up, hopefully they haven't worried too much about the story line, and mainly focused on the action, but I think this should be a pretty good watch especially considering the budget they likely have. looking forward to it.
Canon's 5D Mark II could shake-up the camcorder market
A short film made on the Canon 5D Mark II has got many video enthusiasts rather excited. Read More
New Zealand broadband according to Akamai
New Zealand broadband according to Akamai
I have just noticed the Akamai State of the Internet report Q2 2008 is out now. Interesting stats from around the world - worth reading it.
From a New Zealand perspective here is the only data provided:
- more than 962,000 uniqye IP addresses, a 3.78% increase from Q1 2008, about 0.23 per capita (or about 1 for almost four people here);
- only 2% connected to Akamai servers at 5 Mbps or more - 0.01 "high broadband" per capita;
- 52% connected to Akamai servers at 2 Mbps or more;
- 10% connected at 256 Kbps or less.
I have just noticed the Akamai State of the Internet report Q2 2008 is out now. Interesting stats from around the world - worth reading it.
From a New Zealand perspective here is the only data provided:
- more than 962,000 uniqye IP addresses, a 3.78% increase from Q1 2008, about 0.23 per capita (or about 1 for almost four people here);
- only 2% connected to Akamai servers at 5 Mbps or more - 0.01 "high broadband" per capita;
- 52% connected to Akamai servers at 2 Mbps or more;
- 10% connected at 256 Kbps or less.
Pentax K200D First Look and Sample Images
We have had the opportunity to take a closer look at the recently announced Pentax K200D, a replacement to the Pentax K100D entry level digital SLR. The K200D is designed for users who may be unfamiliar with DSLR cameras but want a camera that will allow them to grow as they learn about photography. With 10.2 megapixels and a 2.7 inch wide view LCD, the Pentax K200D features an easy-to-use interface housed in a compact (now weather protected) body. See full story... Read More
Crumpler camera bags - full review
Crumpler camera bags - full review
A good bag is an essential accessory for every photographer. You can of course carry your camera in any bag, but one designed with photographers in mind should accommodate your specific equipment and accessories, along with giving you quick and easy access to them. In this review we'll be taking a look at two camera rucksacks by Australian bag giant Crumpler: the Keystone, a dedicated (but convertible) camera bag, and the Sinking Barge, a hybrid day-pack. See our Crumpler camera bag review for the full story.
A good bag is an essential accessory for every photographer. You can of course carry your camera in any bag, but one designed with photographers in mind should accommodate your specific equipment and accessories, along with giving you quick and easy access to them. In this review we'll be taking a look at two camera rucksacks by Australian bag giant Crumpler: the Keystone, a dedicated (but convertible) camera bag, and the Sinking Barge, a hybrid day-pack. See our Crumpler camera bag review for the full story.
Fake popup study: Users are idiots? I don't think so...
The Psychology Department of North Carolina State University has conducted a study, in which they tested how likely it was that users clicked on fake pop-ups. Those fake pop-ups are often associated with exploits and the installation of malware on yo... (more in the full post) 
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Thursday, September 25, 2008
Canon Digital Rebel XSi 450D SLR
Canon has now officially announced the 12.2 Megapixel Canon Digital Rebel XSi 450D SLR camera. Incorporating a number of advanced functions and technology found in Canon professional SLR models, the EOS Rebel XSi boasts an improved autofocus sensor, enhanced 14 bit AD conversion, a large 3.0 inch LCD monitor with an advanced Live View function. The Canon Digital Rebel XSi will be available in both black and silver finishes, and sold as body only or in kit form. Read more... Read More
Aircraft seat-bed design offers a comfortable journey for all travelers
Aircraft seat-bed design offers a comfortable journey for all travelers
Another stand-out entry in the Create the Future Design Contest is the aircraft seat-bed design entered in the transportation section by Mario Martinez Celis from Mexico City. The concept design allows for 594 seats on the Airbus A380 which normally seats 555 but the real beauty of the configuration is that ALL passengers would be given the comfort of seat-beds with more space than ever before. ..
Tags: Airbus, Boeing, Design, NASA, Transport
Related Articles: 
Another stand-out entry in the Create the Future Design Contest is the aircraft seat-bed design entered in the transportation section by Mario Martinez Celis from Mexico City. The concept design allows for 594 seats on the Airbus A380 which normally seats 555 but the real beauty of the configuration is that ALL passengers would be given the comfort of seat-beds with more space than ever before. ..
Tags: Airbus, Boeing, Design, NASA, Transport
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Canon at Photokina 2008
Canon at Photokina 2008
Canon�s LFP and printer range set to capitalise on exponential growth in photo imaging market.
Canon�s LFP and printer range set to capitalise on exponential growth in photo imaging market.
Transfields future as Telecom SP on knife-edge
I have blogged about this before (it seems like I'm always saying that - just prophetic I guess), but it seems that poor old Transfield are loosing money on their Telecom contracts. See TVNZ news item.
To be honest I'm not surprised, they have been nailed down so much, there can't be any margin in this work, in fact they have admitted they are loosing money on it. A few years ago, when the Telecom patches were being awarded, they must have put in bids so close to their break-even point that there was no room for any variation, and now they're in the smelly brown stuff.
So what are Telecom going to do about it? Two choices; negotiate with Transfield to try and keep them on, and let them actually do business so they can make some money and survive - or give it all to Downers.
Personally, I hope that Transfield stick around and are able to continue with the Telecom patches they have - I think it would be so detrimental to the NZ telecommunications industry if it was just Downers (Don't forget, they have Telecom patches, the TelstraClear SP contract, and the Vodafone maintenance contract - hell, there's not much else out there!!?!)
Read More
To be honest I'm not surprised, they have been nailed down so much, there can't be any margin in this work, in fact they have admitted they are loosing money on it. A few years ago, when the Telecom patches were being awarded, they must have put in bids so close to their break-even point that there was no room for any variation, and now they're in the smelly brown stuff.
So what are Telecom going to do about it? Two choices; negotiate with Transfield to try and keep them on, and let them actually do business so they can make some money and survive - or give it all to Downers.
Personally, I hope that Transfield stick around and are able to continue with the Telecom patches they have - I think it would be so detrimental to the NZ telecommunications industry if it was just Downers (Don't forget, they have Telecom patches, the TelstraClear SP contract, and the Vodafone maintenance contract - hell, there's not much else out there!!?!)
I can't believe I'm defending Transfield - they are probably the lowest paying SP in the industry. Maybe if they sort things out with Telecom they will address this - yeah right!
Happy days!!
Chrysler's 2009 GEM Peapod neighborhood electric vehicle
A decade after its launch and with 38,000 zero-emission electric vehicles produced and in use, Chrysler LLC's GEM brand has launched the first of its next-generation designs - the Peapod. Scheduled for production in 2009, the low-speed neighborhood commuter can cover up to 30 miles without recharging at a top speed of 25 mph. In keeping with the company's "lots of love" slogan, the new fully-enclosed pod design uses eco-friendly recycled and recyclable materials in its construction and should keep a lid on road rage by virtue of its smiling facade (both front and rear), as well as keeping those inside the car happy with new ergonomic mesh seating and a freshly designed center console featuring iPod integration and hands-free iPhone support...
Tags: Battery Electric Vehicles, Braking, Chrysler, Electric, Emissions Control, iPhone, iPod
Related Articles: 
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My Zero G flight experience: the pictures
In my previous post you can see a short video with my Zero G flight experience. I have now uploaded some of the pictures to my Flickr Zero G set:
Read More
Olympus E-520 - full review and video tour
The Olympus E-520 is the successor to one of the best-selling DSLRs of last year, the popular E-510. The new E-520 takes the 10 Megapixel resolution, Live View, built-in stabilisation, and effective anti-dust features of its predecessor and adds new contrast-based AF in Live View with Face Detection, a bigger screen, quicker continuous shooting, support for wireless flash control, an extra IS mode for panning with the camera held of its side, and a new optional underwater housing. It also offers improved dynamic range and previews of many adjustments. So one of the most feature-packed DSLRs has just got better, but is it enough to compete with the latest rivals? Find out in our Olympus E-520 review and to see a demonstration of its highlights, check out our Olympus E-520 video tour. Read More
LG 37LF66 Television
LG have released a sight for sore eyes with the 37LF66 Full HD 1080p LCD TV that wont completely break Read More
Hasselblad HCD 4-5.6/35-90mm Aspherical zoom lens
Hasselblad HCD 4-5.6/35-90mm Aspherical zoom lens
Hasselblad have launched the first zoom lens optimised for H3D DSLR camera system.
Hasselblad have launched the first zoom lens optimised for H3D DSLR camera system.
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
More on Orcon
More on Orcon
I tried to add this as a comment to my previous post, but for some reason I couldn't, so:
So today I got my new Sky City Movies 2 for 1 pass from Orcon as promised. I was pleasantly surprised, given the previous experiences, I didn't think I'd hear from them again.
As to the service I've had 8 days in the last 3 weeks where it didn't break down at all. Last night however the wireless router was playing up and killed me off in the poker tournament I had worked so hard to qualify for. One hand I had pocket Kings and bet 2/3 of my chips, by the time the modem reconnected instead of doubling or trebling up they were gone. $300 I won't be seeing.
I did have 2 bad days last week, one with 79 disconnections and the other with 362 and I still don't have Caller ID, otherwise I would have to say it was pretty good. 
I tried to add this as a comment to my previous post, but for some reason I couldn't, so:
So today I got my new Sky City Movies 2 for 1 pass from Orcon as promised. I was pleasantly surprised, given the previous experiences, I didn't think I'd hear from them again.
As to the service I've had 8 days in the last 3 weeks where it didn't break down at all. Last night however the wireless router was playing up and killed me off in the poker tournament I had worked so hard to qualify for. One hand I had pocket Kings and bet 2/3 of my chips, by the time the modem reconnected instead of doubling or trebling up they were gone. $300 I won't be seeing.
I did have 2 bad days last week, one with 79 disconnections and the other with 362 and I still don't have Caller ID, otherwise I would have to say it was pretty good.
Lexar Professional 233x CF Memory Card
New CompactFlash cards deliver workflow-enhancing benefits for the growing number of photographers who have embraced digital SLR cameras. Read More
Leica S2 professional Digital SLR
Leica S2 professional Digital SLR
LEICA S2 professional Digital SLR features a custom 37.5-megapixel, 30 x 45 mm sensor integrated in a 35mm-sized body
LEICA S2 professional Digital SLR features a custom 37.5-megapixel, 30 x 45 mm sensor integrated in a 35mm-sized body
Canon Digital Rebel XSi 450D SLR
Canon has now officially announced the 12.2 Megapixel Canon Digital Rebel XSi 450D SLR camera. Incorporating a number of advanced functions and technology found in Canon professional SLR models, the EOS Rebel XSi boasts an improved autofocus sensor, enhanced 14 bit AD conversion, a large 3.0 inch LCD monitor with an advanced Live View function. The Canon Digital Rebel XSi will be available in both black and silver finishes, and sold as body only or in kit form. Read more... Read More
Pentax K200D First Look and Sample Images
Pentax K200D First Look and Sample Images
We have had the opportunity to take a closer look at the recently announced Pentax K200D, a replacement to the Pentax K100D entry level digital SLR. The K200D is designed for users who may be unfamiliar with DSLR cameras but want a camera that will allow them to grow as they learn about photography. With 10.2 megapixels and a 2.7 inch wide view LCD, the Pentax K200D features an easy-to-use interface housed in a compact (now weather protected) body. See full story...
We have had the opportunity to take a closer look at the recently announced Pentax K200D, a replacement to the Pentax K100D entry level digital SLR. The K200D is designed for users who may be unfamiliar with DSLR cameras but want a camera that will allow them to grow as they learn about photography. With 10.2 megapixels and a 2.7 inch wide view LCD, the Pentax K200D features an easy-to-use interface housed in a compact (now weather protected) body. See full story...
Details on Samsung HZ1 compact ultrazoom emerge
Samsung is making a strong bid to be taken seriously in the high-performance compact segment with their announcement of the 10x zoom Samsung HZ1. Read More
Nikon D60 Digital SLR Test and Sample Images
Having had the opportunity to test the Nikon D60 with the new AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G Vibration Reduction (VR) kit lens, we have published a few sample images taken with a Nikon D60 (Firmware A 1:00, B 1:00) under a range of ISO sensitivity settings and exploring some of the available options on the camera. See full story... Read More
SQL DB? No firewall? Weak admin password? That is a trojan coming your way alright
According to the Symantec Security Response Blog, a new trojan called Trojan.Eskiuel is going around infiltrating SQL servers and causing havoc:
Check your servers...
Read More
This time we have found a new SQL threat: Trojan.Eskiuel. The main functionality of this threat is to scan the Internet to find machines with poorly configured SQL servers (i.e. with weak or non-existing passwords), gain access to them, and use their stored procedures in order to download new malware from a remote host.
Check your servers...
Nikon D300 Image Samples Available
Nikon Corporation has now provided another four image samples from the soon to be released Nikon D300 digital SLR. The full size images include a couple of portraits, one landscape/scenery and one action shot. The images are taken at 200 ISO, except for one of the portraits captured at 400 ISO. The Nikkor lenses used for these Nikon D300 sample image tests include the Nikon AF-S DX VR Zoom Nikkor ED 18-200mm F3.5-5.6G, the prime AF Nikkor 50mm F1.4D and the AF-S VR Nikkor ED 300mm F2.8 IF telephoto lens. Read Full story... Read More
Friday, September 19, 2008
Digital Camera Memory - Beware of Fake Memory Cards!
Digital Camera Memory - Beware of Fake Memory Cards!
Some unscrupulous sellers may sell fake digital camera media cards.
Some unscrupulous sellers may sell fake digital camera media cards.
Create the Future Design Contest: re-thinking the wheel
Create the Future Design Contest: re-thinking the wheel
The NASA Tech Briefs Create the Future Design Contest began in 2002 as a platform for encouraging innovation in product design among engineers, entrepreneurs, and students around the globe. The 2008 competition is open until October 17, but already this year's entries have produced some very thought provoking product ideas and we'll be exploring some of the standouts in detail over coming weeks. The first cab off the rank is an attempt, in fact two attempts, to do what else but reinvent the wheel. German student Caspar Schmitz has designed a castor with an additional axis that could see your shopping trolleys glide over bumps instead of grinding to an abrupt halt. Also in Caspar's portfolio is the transformable wheel chair, an application of "the transformable wheel", a concept which allows a wheel made of flexible plastic to take on an ellipsoid shape when circumstances require a lower center-of-gravity...
Tags: Design, Medical, NASA, Safety
Related Articles: 
The NASA Tech Briefs Create the Future Design Contest began in 2002 as a platform for encouraging innovation in product design among engineers, entrepreneurs, and students around the globe. The 2008 competition is open until October 17, but already this year's entries have produced some very thought provoking product ideas and we'll be exploring some of the standouts in detail over coming weeks. The first cab off the rank is an attempt, in fact two attempts, to do what else but reinvent the wheel. German student Caspar Schmitz has designed a castor with an additional axis that could see your shopping trolleys glide over bumps instead of grinding to an abrupt halt. Also in Caspar's portfolio is the transformable wheel chair, an application of "the transformable wheel", a concept which allows a wheel made of flexible plastic to take on an ellipsoid shape when circumstances require a lower center-of-gravity...
Tags: Design, Medical, NASA, Safety
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Panasonic TX-37LZD70 Television
Panasonic TX-37LZD70 Television
Panasonic brings us the TX-37LZD70, a Full High Definition 1080p LCD TV with V-real technology for the
Panasonic brings us the TX-37LZD70, a Full High Definition 1080p LCD TV with V-real technology for the
Sites to Browse - Misc - See Objects get Shredded
Perfect entertainment for a boring afternoon - watch batteries, television sets, and even refrigerators get shredded. Read More
Lexar Memory Stick Micro
Lexar Memory Stick Micro
Superior Quality Mobile Memory Products Enhance Capabilities of Cell Phones and Portable Devices.
Superior Quality Mobile Memory Products Enhance Capabilities of Cell Phones and Portable Devices.
Canon PowerShot SD990 IS, SD880 IS join Digital ELPH series
Canon PowerShot SD990 IS, SD880 IS join Digital ELPH series
Two new ultracompact cameras, the Canon PowerShot SD990 IS and Canon PowerShot SD880 IS, will soon be joining the ranks of Canon's Digital ELPH models.
Two new ultracompact cameras, the Canon PowerShot SD990 IS and Canon PowerShot SD880 IS, will soon be joining the ranks of Canon's Digital ELPH models.
Monday, September 15, 2008
Carl Zeiss launches lenses for Canon EF mount
Carl Zeiss launches lenses for Canon EF mount
After teasing the launch of a new mount a few weeks ago, Carl Zeiss has provided details on the lucky new system. As we predicted, the winner is Canon's EF mount: in addition to providing details on the new EF-compatible Zeiss ZE mount, the German firm also announced two forthcoming ZE lenses.
After teasing the launch of a new mount a few weeks ago, Carl Zeiss has provided details on the lucky new system. As we predicted, the winner is Canon's EF mount: in addition to providing details on the new EF-compatible Zeiss ZE mount, the German firm also announced two forthcoming ZE lenses.
Attending the IBM Forum 2008 in Wellington
Attending the IBM Forum 2008 in Wellington
Cool, it's that time of the year again when the IBM Forum is on. I've attended previous events and it's always an interesting day.
Here's a bit about this event:
The full day event is happening in Wellington (11th August, Michael Fowler Centre), Auckland (14th August, Hyatt Hotel) and Christchurch (19th August, Convention Centre).
Registrations are open now. 
Cool, it's that time of the year again when the IBM Forum is on. I've attended previous events and it's always an interesting day.
Here's a bit about this event:
IBM Forum 2008 focuses on Sustainable Innovation, starting with the keynote, Ray Avery, a kiwi scientist and entrepreneur; founder CEO of Medicine Mondiale. Ray is developing sustainable products and technologies for world markets, such as his latest invention “Proteinforte”. Ray will be talking about global opportunities for high tech innovation in healthcare, education and infrastructure.
Also on the agenda, Edward Orange, Director of Lotus Software of IBM Asia Pacific, will be talking about Web 2.0 and how it can be leveraged by enterprises of all sizes to help revolutionise the way they conduct business, help employees collaborate more effectively and enhance their client outreach.
The agenda also features a session on 'Co-Web: re-mixing audio and video collaboration in the next generation of the Internet’ and ‘Demystifying SOA - driving business agility with service orientated business applications’, as well as insights into the latest advances in strategy and technology; customer stories and interactive demonstrations.
The full day event is happening in Wellington (11th August, Michael Fowler Centre), Auckland (14th August, Hyatt Hotel) and Christchurch (19th August, Convention Centre).
Registrations are open now.
Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ5 / TZ4 with 10x Wide-Angle Zoom
Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ5 / TZ4 with 10x Wide-Angle Zoom
Panasonic has today introduced two new Lumix digital cameras, 9.1-megapixel DMC-TZ5 and 8.1-megapixel DMC-TZ4, each featuring a 28mm wide-angle 10x optical zoom Leica DC lens (equivalent to 28-280mm on a 35mm film camera). The DMC-TZ5 newly integrates the capability of recording 720p HD (high-definition) motion pictures together with its direct output function allowing users to enjoy watching both still and motion pictures in HD quality on a large-screen HDTV. See full story...
Panasonic has today introduced two new Lumix digital cameras, 9.1-megapixel DMC-TZ5 and 8.1-megapixel DMC-TZ4, each featuring a 28mm wide-angle 10x optical zoom Leica DC lens (equivalent to 28-280mm on a 35mm film camera). The DMC-TZ5 newly integrates the capability of recording 720p HD (high-definition) motion pictures together with its direct output function allowing users to enjoy watching both still and motion pictures in HD quality on a large-screen HDTV. See full story...
Samsung Yp T10 4GB yp T10JAB
Samsung Yp T10 4GB yp T10JAB
The Samsung YP-T10 is a super slim and sexy MP3 player which although is looking a little like the Samsung
The Samsung YP-T10 is a super slim and sexy MP3 player which although is looking a little like the Samsung
HP invites to Software Business Technology Optmisation Tour in Wellington
HP invites to Software Business Technology Optmisation Tour in Wellington
Today I received an invitation that I am able to extend to you. HP is running the HP Software BTO Tour 2008 in Wellington, 2nd September 2008.
This half day event is ahppening at the Museum of New Zealand - Te Papa Tongarewa from 8:30am through 1:30pm.
There will be conference streams during the day, designed to give IT Professionals a more practical approach to IT Management.
I won't be attending the event though, because I will be in Auckland attending the Microsoft Tech Ed, and writing the Unofficial Tech Ed Blog while there...
Today I received an invitation that I am able to extend to you. HP is running the HP Software BTO Tour 2008 in Wellington, 2nd September 2008.
This half day event is ahppening at the Museum of New Zealand - Te Papa Tongarewa from 8:30am through 1:30pm.
There will be conference streams during the day, designed to give IT Professionals a more practical approach to IT Management.
I won't be attending the event though, because I will be in Auckland attending the Microsoft Tech Ed, and writing the Unofficial Tech Ed Blog while there...
How to take photos at night - DSLR Tips workshop
Photos taken at night can produce spectacular results - in fact many cities present their best views after dark. Night photography can also be very forgiving in bad weather, so if rain's prevented you from grabbing the shots you want of a city, it's well worth trying again after sunset. Night photography can however prove quite a challenge in Automatic modes, but it's surprisingly easy with a few simple tricks and in our latest video workshop at DSLR Tips, we'll explain how. Read More
Apple iPod classic Black (80GB, PC/MAC - MB147LL/A) (80 GB, 20000 Songs) Digital Media Player
The new iPod Classic will store so much of your favourite music with either 80GB or 160GB hard drive, Read More
Saturday, September 13, 2008
Microsoft Excel 2003 Functions and Formulas - Using Excel to Convert to Roman Numerals
Microsoft Excel 2003 Functions and Formulas - Using Excel to Convert to Roman Numerals
Need to convert MM to 2000? Use this Excel function. ...
Need to convert MM to 2000? Use this Excel function. ...
Microsoft Excel 2003 Functions and Formulas - Exponentiation
Two ways to raise numbers to powers inside Microsoft Excel 2003 spreadsheets. ... Read More
Nikon Coolpix P6000 with 4x Wide Angle Zoom and GPS
Nikon Coolpix P6000 with 4x Wide Angle Zoom and GPS
Nikon has today introduced their new Coolpix flagship compact camera, the 13.5 MP Nikon Coolpix P6000. The Nikon Coolpix P6000 features a 4x optical zoom starting at 28mm and includes optical lens shift Vibration Reduction (VR), a 2.7-inch high resolution LCD monitor, four exposure modes (P,S,A,M), a dedicated hotshoe and an optical viewfinder. See full story...
Nikon has today introduced their new Coolpix flagship compact camera, the 13.5 MP Nikon Coolpix P6000. The Nikon Coolpix P6000 features a 4x optical zoom starting at 28mm and includes optical lens shift Vibration Reduction (VR), a 2.7-inch high resolution LCD monitor, four exposure modes (P,S,A,M), a dedicated hotshoe and an optical viewfinder. See full story...
Vodafone Broadband Bandwidth meter: Total crap
I noticed that there was an issue currently occuring with the Bandwith meter for the 24th and the 25th:
While the meter in the picture below only accounts for my PC only (out of two), I am the biggest user of this household, so you could multiply the figures in my meter report by around 1.5.
Do note that my meter report may have slightly higher usage than the actual one as some packets may not be going to the Internet.
It sometimes fluctuates below my own PC's usage... and the 24th has a sudden peak spike (but the days before it were pretty unaccounted for)
Also, the 22nd of July is missing! Where did that go?
Some dates also seem to have huge delay in processing the usage (so sometimes the usage on one day goes on the next day).
I've seen problems with ihug's/Vodafone's usage checker a few times before. I haven't seen many occurrences of other ISPs having similar problems...
This also reduces the trust laid upon Vodafone's systems. I definitely know that I'll need to use my meter to check for usage rather than My Vodafone. Could this mean that we could be paying more for our data? (as if there is substantially more data usage than the actual one, then Vodafone have actually been taking away the value of the plan)
Vodafone's engineers better rectify this problem soon! 
Read More
Bandwidth issue 2008-07-25 11:32:57
Some customers may notice that their bandwidth for the 24th and 25th of July is higher than usual.
We are currently investigating this issue with our Engineers and we hope to resolve this as soon as possible
Thank you for your patience
While the meter in the picture below only accounts for my PC only (out of two), I am the biggest user of this household, so you could multiply the figures in my meter report by around 1.5.
Do note that my meter report may have slightly higher usage than the actual one as some packets may not be going to the Internet.
It sometimes fluctuates below my own PC's usage... and the 24th has a sudden peak spike (but the days before it were pretty unaccounted for)
Also, the 22nd of July is missing! Where did that go?
Some dates also seem to have huge delay in processing the usage (so sometimes the usage on one day goes on the next day).
I've seen problems with ihug's/Vodafone's usage checker a few times before. I haven't seen many occurrences of other ISPs having similar problems...
This also reduces the trust laid upon Vodafone's systems. I definitely know that I'll need to use my meter to check for usage rather than My Vodafone. Could this mean that we could be paying more for our data? (as if there is substantially more data usage than the actual one, then Vodafone have actually been taking away the value of the plan)
Vodafone's engineers better rectify this problem soon!
Specific brainwave patterns occur prior to a “Eureka Moment”
September 9, 2008 “Eureka” (Greek for "I have found it") is an exclamation used as an interjection to proclaim an epiphanic discovery. Famously pronounced in the bathtub by Archimedes when he suddenly understood that the volume of irregular objects could be calculated with precision through the displacement of water, a previously intractable problem. Real-world problems come in two broad types: those requiring sequential reasoning and those requiring transformative reasoning: a break from past thinking followed by an insight. It is this moment, where a problem solver makes a quantum leap of understanding with no conscious forewarning, that we term the “Eureka moment.” A new university study in which brainwaves of humans were measured as they attempted to solve puzzles that call for intuitive strategies and novel insight has found an array of specific brainwave patterns occur several (up to 8) seconds before the participant is consciously aware of an insight...
Tags: Brain, Thinking
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Read More
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The Dark Knight: Batman remodeled.
The Dark Knight: Batman remodeled.
I took the opportunity to see "The Dark Knight" on saturday night, (in Reading Cinemas Gold Lounge)
and I have to admit, the hype is not totally misplaced, it is a stunning movie,
Heath Ledger truly played the part to a legendary level, the gadgets again are fantastic,
the sheer grittyness that was brough about made it all the more real, rather than having a fantastical approach, it gave it a realisticness lacking in many hero movies.
I'd love to write more but I'd hate to spoil it,
I think this movie will go down as a definite movie to watch.
I took the opportunity to see "The Dark Knight" on saturday night, (in Reading Cinemas Gold Lounge)
and I have to admit, the hype is not totally misplaced, it is a stunning movie,
Heath Ledger truly played the part to a legendary level, the gadgets again are fantastic,
the sheer grittyness that was brough about made it all the more real, rather than having a fantastical approach, it gave it a realisticness lacking in many hero movies.
I'd love to write more but I'd hate to spoil it,
I think this movie will go down as a definite movie to watch.
Sharp's solar LED street lights incorporate seismic detection
Sharp's solar LED street lights incorporate seismic detection
The argument for switching to solar-powered street lighting seems very clear cut: they run on sunlight, emit no CO2 emissions, provide an off-the grid source of lighting during in an emergency situation and use efficient LED-based light which tends not to attract insects. Sharp Corporation has announced plans to roll-out two new models of solar-powered LED street lights in the Japanese market and these have the added bonus of in-built Seismic Motion Sensors which detect earthquakes of five or greater on the Japanese seismic scale and respond by switching to full illumination for two nights...
Tags: LED, Lighting, Security, Sharp, Solar
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The argument for switching to solar-powered street lighting seems very clear cut: they run on sunlight, emit no CO2 emissions, provide an off-the grid source of lighting during in an emergency situation and use efficient LED-based light which tends not to attract insects. Sharp Corporation has announced plans to roll-out two new models of solar-powered LED street lights in the Japanese market and these have the added bonus of in-built Seismic Motion Sensors which detect earthquakes of five or greater on the Japanese seismic scale and respond by switching to full illumination for two nights...
Tags: LED, Lighting, Security, Sharp, Solar
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Clothes Show Live
Clothes Show Live
The world�s largest fashion and beauty event supports emerging fashion talent with design awards.
The world�s largest fashion and beauty event supports emerging fashion talent with design awards.
Nikon D3 and D300 Scene Recognition System Developer Interview
Nikon D3 and D300 Scene Recognition System Developer Interview
Nikon has provided a behind the scenes interview with the developer of their new scene recognition system technology which is incorporated in the latest Nikon D3 and D300 digital cameras. Leveraging the data provided by their 1005 pixel RGB matrix meter, Nikons new SRS provides more precise subject identification, optimizing autofocus, exposure and white balance detection. See full story...
Nikon has provided a behind the scenes interview with the developer of their new scene recognition system technology which is incorporated in the latest Nikon D3 and D300 digital cameras. Leveraging the data provided by their 1005 pixel RGB matrix meter, Nikons new SRS provides more precise subject identification, optimizing autofocus, exposure and white balance detection. See full story...
Camera Labs Assignment: vote for your favourite!
Camera Labs Assignment: vote for your favourite!
It's the first day of a new month which means a new Assignment in the Camera Labs forums. The theme as suggested by the winner of February's Assignment, zrmi, is 'Transportation'. To enter, visit the April Assignment Submissions page. This also means submissions for last month's Assignment are now closed so you can vote for your favourite entry of Big Pix's 'Time' theme. So to vote, head on over to our March Assignment Submissions thread.
It's the first day of a new month which means a new Assignment in the Camera Labs forums. The theme as suggested by the winner of February's Assignment, zrmi, is 'Transportation'. To enter, visit the April Assignment Submissions page. This also means submissions for last month's Assignment are now closed so you can vote for your favourite entry of Big Pix's 'Time' theme. So to vote, head on over to our March Assignment Submissions thread.
Buying a Digital Camera - Work the Controls Before Buying
Comparing digital cameras to buy? Familiarize yourself with the controls before making a decision. Read More
Buying a Digital Camera - Work the Controls Before Buying
Comparing digital cameras to buy? Familiarize yourself with the controls before making a decision. Read More
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H50 with 15x Optical Zoom and 3.0-inch LCD
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H50 with 15x Optical Zoom and 3.0-inch LCD
Sony Canada today announced the latest addition to its high-zoom camera line, the 9.1-megapixel Cyber-shot DSC-H50 digital camera. This new model (which is a successor to the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H9) incorporates a 15x optical zoom lens with Super SteadyShot optical image stabilization to capture action at a distance. The Sony DSC-H50 also features extensive manual controls, including an exposure bracketing mode that newly includes settings for white balance and color modes. See full story...
Sony Canada today announced the latest addition to its high-zoom camera line, the 9.1-megapixel Cyber-shot DSC-H50 digital camera. This new model (which is a successor to the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H9) incorporates a 15x optical zoom lens with Super SteadyShot optical image stabilization to capture action at a distance. The Sony DSC-H50 also features extensive manual controls, including an exposure bracketing mode that newly includes settings for white balance and color modes. See full story...
Three new Epson Stylus NX all-in-ones launched
Three new Epson Stylus NX all-in-ones launched
Epson has launched a trio of new sub-$100 all-in-one inkjets "designed to satisfy the printing, scanning, copying, and faxing needs of any busy household."
Epson has launched a trio of new sub-$100 all-in-one inkjets "designed to satisfy the printing, scanning, copying, and faxing needs of any busy household."
Monster Beats by Dr. Dre
Monster Beats by Dr. Dre
Monster Cable and hip-hop mogul Dr. Dre teamed up on the Beats design. The result: Noise-canceling headphones that look way cooler than high-end competitors from Bose and Sennheiser. Beyond the cool factor, these headphones perform admirably for all types of music, and they can serve as a wired headset for phones with a 3.5-mm jack or adapter. The active noise cancellation, however, seems like an afterthought and keeps the headphones from achieving their potential. But we think Monster and Dre are onto something, and we look forward to improvements in future versions.
Read | Permalink | User Reviews | Linking Blogs
The autovolantor Flying Car
The autovolantor Flying Car
September 9, 2008 Moller International has announced that it has designed a hybrid flying car. The two-seater autovolantor is fashioned in the shape of a Ferrari 599 GTB with wings and is claimed to be capable of lifting off vertically from a traffic jam and flying at up to 150 mph for a short distance (about 15 minutes). The autovolantor is designed to function on the road very much like a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) using one of its eight Rotapower engines to generate enough electrical power to drive for up to 40 miles...
Tags: Ferrari, Moller, VTOL
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September 9, 2008 Moller International has announced that it has designed a hybrid flying car. The two-seater autovolantor is fashioned in the shape of a Ferrari 599 GTB with wings and is claimed to be capable of lifting off vertically from a traffic jam and flying at up to 150 mph for a short distance (about 15 minutes). The autovolantor is designed to function on the road very much like a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) using one of its eight Rotapower engines to generate enough electrical power to drive for up to 40 miles...
Tags: Ferrari, Moller, VTOL
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iTunes 8?
iTunes 8?
As a new iPod owner (3 weeks), I'm waiting for iTunes 8.0 so I can decide if it sucks for windows or not. I think it's about time Americans got out of bed.
Stay, um... Tuned???
yeah, I know....
As a new iPod owner (3 weeks), I'm waiting for iTunes 8.0 so I can decide if it sucks for windows or not. I think it's about time Americans got out of bed.
Stay, um... Tuned???
yeah, I know....
Sony KDL-32S3000 32 in. LCD Television
Sony KDL-32S3000 32 in. LCD Television
Sony released a great range of entry-level HD Ready LCD TVs earlier this year which are the cheapest
Sony released a great range of entry-level HD Ready LCD TVs earlier this year which are the cheapest
Crumpler camera bags - full review
A good bag is an essential accessory for every photographer. You can of course carry your camera in any bag, but one designed with photographers in mind should accommodate your specific equipment and accessories, along with giving you quick and easy access to them. In this review we'll be taking a look at two camera rucksacks by Australian bag giant Crumpler: the Keystone, a dedicated (but convertible) camera bag, and the Sinking Barge, a hybrid day-pack. See our Crumpler camera bag review for the full story. Read More
LG 42LT75 Television
The LG 42LT75 is a revolutionary LCD TV that has an integrated 160GB hard drive allowing you to pause Read More
Computerworld interviews Amit Mital, Microsoft GM Live Mesh
Computerworld interviews Amit Mital, Microsoft GM Live Mesh
Computerworld New Zealand has posted Rob O'Neill's interview with Amit Mital, Microsoft General Manager for Live Mesh. The interview was conducted during the Microsoft Tech Ed New Zealand 2008, in Auckland.Other related articles o... (more in the full post) 
Computerworld New Zealand has posted Rob O'Neill's interview with Amit Mital, Microsoft General Manager for Live Mesh. The interview was conducted during the Microsoft Tech Ed New Zealand 2008, in Auckland.Other related articles o... (more in the full post)
FANUC debuts world's largest, strongest six-axis robot
FANUC Robotics has introduced the heavy-duty M-2000iA line of robots, designed for handling truck, tractor and car parts. The model which was demonstrated during the IMTS 2008, sets new records for size, reach and wrist strength, claiming the title of world’s largest and strongest six-axis robot...
Tags: Building and Construction, Construction, Robot
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Sony Alpha DSLR A900 preview
Sony Alpha DSLR A900 preview
Sony's A900 is the new flagship DSLR in the Alpha range and the company's first with a full-frame sensor. The new Alpha A900 boasts nothing less than 24.6 Megapixels to become the highest resolution DSLR to date, and is also the world's first full-frame DSLR with built-in anti-shake capabilities. Handling the huge amount of image data are twin Bionz processors, which allow the A900 to shoot at 5fps, and like the A700 before it, there's a detailed VGA screen and HDMI connectivity to HDTVs. Find out more about it in our Sony Alpha DSLR A900 preview, where you'll also see how its features and pricing compares against key rivals.
Sony's A900 is the new flagship DSLR in the Alpha range and the company's first with a full-frame sensor. The new Alpha A900 boasts nothing less than 24.6 Megapixels to become the highest resolution DSLR to date, and is also the world's first full-frame DSLR with built-in anti-shake capabilities. Handling the huge amount of image data are twin Bionz processors, which allow the A900 to shoot at 5fps, and like the A700 before it, there's a detailed VGA screen and HDMI connectivity to HDTVs. Find out more about it in our Sony Alpha DSLR A900 preview, where you'll also see how its features and pricing compares against key rivals.
Saturday, September 6, 2008
Windows Vista - Mouse - Wheel Scrolls Too Fast or Not Fast Enough
Windows Vista - Mouse - Wheel Scrolls Too Fast or Not Fast Enough
Toggle the scrolling speed of wheel mice on Windows Vista systems. ...
Toggle the scrolling speed of wheel mice on Windows Vista systems. ...
SBS 2008 RC1 and EBS 2008 RC1 finalised (updated with all download links)
Last Friday, Microsoft finalised the code for the RC 1 (Release Candidate 1) prerelease versions of both Windows Small Business Server 2008, and Windows Essential Business Server 2008. See below for download links.Rumour has it that organis... (more in the full post) 
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Jailbreaking iPod touch 2.0 with WinPwn
Jailbreaking iPod touch 2.0 with WinPwn
It took a while, but I'm finally at it - iPod touch 2.0 now jailbroken for me, using WinPwn.
You'll need:
Open up WinPwn.
Click "Browse .ipsw" and find your original iPod touch 2.0 restore file.
Click "IPSW Builder"
You don't really have to do anything here, but you can select "Install Cydia" if you want it.
Click "Build .ipsw", save to a location, and wait a while.
Once the whole process is complete, click "iPwner" and click OK to the confirmation message.
Open up iTunes, and put your iPod into DFU mode.
I tried to do this a few times, but having a counter on hand is best.
In iTunes, hold Shift while pressing "Restore".
Find your custom restore file and Restore. And wait for an extremely long time.
Afterwards, iTunes may prompt for a backup restore.
It worked for me, but I'm not 100% sure if this affects anything, but if you don't mind, you can set it up completely from scratch.
The restore took around 25 minutes. Maybe it's because of my apps, but expect to wait.
... and now you should have a jailbroken iPod touch with Software 2.0!
There was one problem - Cydia always hangs when downloading or installing software. A hard reset is required. (Hold Sleep/Wake and Home buttons until it shuts down, then start up normally) 
It took a while, but I'm finally at it - iPod touch 2.0 now jailbroken for me, using WinPwn.
You'll need:
- WinPwn (2.0.0.3 is what I used, since some bugs were apparently fixed)
- Your iPod 2.0 restore file (please note that it must be 5A347)
- iTunes 7.7
- Some patience
Step 1
Open up WinPwn.
Click "Browse .ipsw" and find your original iPod touch 2.0 restore file.
Step 2
Click "IPSW Builder"
You don't really have to do anything here, but you can select "Install Cydia" if you want it.
Step 3
Click "Build .ipsw", save to a location, and wait a while.
Step 4
Once the whole process is complete, click "iPwner" and click OK to the confirmation message.
Step 5
Open up iTunes, and put your iPod into DFU mode.
I tried to do this a few times, but having a counter on hand is best.
- Connect iPod to PC
- Turn off while connected to PC
- Press Sleep/Wake and Home buttons for exactly 10 seconds. Leave iPod connected.
- After the 10 seconds, release the Sleep/Wake button. Continue to hold the Home button. Leave iPod connected.
- Windows will now see the "new hardware", and iTunes will give a message that it has found an iPod in recovery mode.
- Click OK.
Step 6
In iTunes, hold Shift while pressing "Restore".
Find your custom restore file and Restore. And wait for an extremely long time.
Step 7
Afterwards, iTunes may prompt for a backup restore.
It worked for me, but I'm not 100% sure if this affects anything, but if you don't mind, you can set it up completely from scratch.
The restore took around 25 minutes. Maybe it's because of my apps, but expect to wait.
... and now you should have a jailbroken iPod touch with Software 2.0!
There was one problem - Cydia always hangs when downloading or installing software. A hard reset is required. (Hold Sleep/Wake and Home buttons until it shuts down, then start up normally)
Sony DSC-T70 Digital Camera
The Sony Cybershot T70 digital camera has a unique innovative feature that makes us want to shout out Read More
Nikon D300 Image Samples Available
Nikon D300 Image Samples Available
Nikon Corporation has now provided another four image samples from the soon to be released Nikon D300 digital SLR. The full size images include a couple of portraits, one landscape/scenery and one action shot. The images are taken at 200 ISO, except for one of the portraits captured at 400 ISO. The Nikkor lenses used for these Nikon D300 sample image tests include the Nikon AF-S DX VR Zoom Nikkor ED 18-200mm F3.5-5.6G, the prime AF Nikkor 50mm F1.4D and the AF-S VR Nikkor ED 300mm F2.8 IF telephoto lens. Read Full story...
Nikon Corporation has now provided another four image samples from the soon to be released Nikon D300 digital SLR. The full size images include a couple of portraits, one landscape/scenery and one action shot. The images are taken at 200 ISO, except for one of the portraits captured at 400 ISO. The Nikkor lenses used for these Nikon D300 sample image tests include the Nikon AF-S DX VR Zoom Nikkor ED 18-200mm F3.5-5.6G, the prime AF Nikkor 50mm F1.4D and the AF-S VR Nikkor ED 300mm F2.8 IF telephoto lens. Read Full story...
Canon WFT-E3(A) wireless transmitter - full review and video tour
Canon WFT-E3(A) wireless transmitter - full review and video tour
Canon's WFT-E3(A) wireless file transmitter is one of the most powerful accessories for the EOS 40D. It equips the 40D with Wifi, allowing you to transfer images or remote control the camera without a cable in sight, even from the other side of the world. It also includes USB connectivity to external storage devices and even GPS navigators to record your co-ordinates on images. And the whole thing is packaged into a portrait grip for comfortable shooting on the side. To find out how it performs in practice, see our detailed Canon WFT-E3(A) review and for a demonstration of its features, check out our video tour.
Canon's WFT-E3(A) wireless file transmitter is one of the most powerful accessories for the EOS 40D. It equips the 40D with Wifi, allowing you to transfer images or remote control the camera without a cable in sight, even from the other side of the world. It also includes USB connectivity to external storage devices and even GPS navigators to record your co-ordinates on images. And the whole thing is packaged into a portrait grip for comfortable shooting on the side. To find out how it performs in practice, see our detailed Canon WFT-E3(A) review and for a demonstration of its features, check out our video tour.
Companies reinventing themselves: I am not sure I laugh or cry on this one...
Wow... Talk about a complete reinvention. I just read this press release and I can only think what a waste of investors' money from the start.
I am talking about Foldera, a company which started as a "developer of web-based organization and collaboration software" and now decided their market is really selling network switches.
I see this as an example of where all this "web-based" craze is going if people keep investing in good ideas with short sighted implementations. Too much money being thrown into companies with no vision, or trying to solve a problem that doesn't exist - or doing it in the wrong way.
I am posting this because I think it's relevant to a topic Ben posted today on "web 2.0 and monetisation".
Want more "fail"? Their new web-site, linked from the press release doesn't even exist yet:
Here is part of the press release to inspire you more confidence on "web 2.0" business:
Excuse me while I laugh here. Seriously, I think Ben Kepes should look into this and analyse it further because he's the SaaS guy. 
Read More
I am talking about Foldera, a company which started as a "developer of web-based organization and collaboration software" and now decided their market is really selling network switches.
I see this as an example of where all this "web-based" craze is going if people keep investing in good ideas with short sighted implementations. Too much money being thrown into companies with no vision, or trying to solve a problem that doesn't exist - or doing it in the wrong way.
I am posting this because I think it's relevant to a topic Ben posted today on "web 2.0 and monetisation".
Want more "fail"? Their new web-site, linked from the press release doesn't even exist yet:
SANTA ANA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Foldera, Inc. (OTCBB: FDRA), today unveiled the Company’s new strategy, management team, market thrust, name and capital structure by issuing the following letter to shareholders.
Dear Shareholder:
We are pleased to announce that Foldera has now successfully transitioned itself from being a developer of web-based organization and collaboration software. We have searched to find the right market, management team and product with which to take the Company forward and we would like to take this opportunity to outline the Company’s future plans.
New Strategic Direction
The Company’s principal market moving forward is with the core network infrastructure of the telephone companies, cable operators and wireless suppliers. The Company has recruited a new management team with a wealth of telecom infrastructure experience and who have already independently completed much of the software development for a High Speed, High Density Carrier Grade Ethernet Switch that will be the Company’s initial product launch. Along with our product development partners, we are continuing to develop the software and hardware in a closely integrated program that will result in timely implementation of the system using components that will exceed all carrier and prospective customer requirements.
There are other players attempting to enter these markets. Cisco Systems (CSCO), Juniper (JNPR), Force10, Alcatel-Lucent (ALA), Huawei, World Wide Packets and Foundry Networks (FDRY) clearly have well-established brand names and large customer bases. However, they also have legacy technologies and cannot re-launch into new markets with products that must be redesigned/re-architected and which would cannibalize their existing product lines. We will compete in the high density, carrier grade 10 Gigabit switch market with a switch that is both extensible and affordably scalable. This will present a ‘new standard’ in the market and the Company will be a ‘first mover’ in this segment.
The Company’s new technology will transform the Ethernet Switching market segment by developing and selling dramatically more cost-effective, scalable solutions for High Speed Ethernet switching with the industry’s first 288 10 Gigabit port Ethernet switch as our initial product launch at the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) Show in Las Vegas in April 2009.
Corporate Name Change
As is appropriate with this major change in the Company’s direction, we have decided to change the name of the business to CeCors, Inc., an acronym for Carrier Ethernet Core Switch and pronounced ‘SeaCores.’ This will become effective in the coming weeks as the Company’s legal name, registrations, trading symbol and marketing materials are changed.
Expanding Management Expertise
The CeCors executive team brings 100+ years of combined management experience in IT and communications technology, manufacturing, sales and marketing. The team has worked together and successfully led a number of liquidity events, such as mergers and acquisitions, as well as IPO’s.
As of July 18, 2008, Jim Fiedler, an experienced and respected leader in the telecom industry, with vast experience in running early and mid-stage telecom networking and services companies, has become Chairman, President and CEO of CeCors. His experience and contacts within the industry will provide exceptional leadership into the future.
Excuse me while I laugh here. Seriously, I think Ben Kepes should look into this and analyse it further because he's the SaaS guy.
Nikon D700 - compared to D3, D300 and EOS 5D
Nikon's D700 is the company's second full-frame DSLR, and comes in at a much more affordable price point than the flagship D3. The new D700 takes the D3's 12.1 Megapixel FX format sensor, 3in VGA monitor, 51 point AF system and Live View, but squeezes it into a smaller and lighter D300-sized body equipped with a popup flash and anti-dust features. In our D700 preview article we'll detail the features of the new model and compare the differences between it and the D3 and D300, along with Canon's EOS 5D. See our Nikon D700 preview to find out if Nikon's found the perfect balance of price and features. Read More
Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ5 - full review and video tour
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ5 is a 9.1 Megapixel compact with nothing less than a 10x optical zoom range. It's the successor to the enormously successful Lumix TZ3 and features the same excellent 28-280mm stabilised zoom lens in a pocketable form factor, but along with two extra Megapixels, upgrades the 3in screen to 460k pixels, adds HD movie recording at 720p / 30fps, and tops it off with an improved Intelligent Auto mode which combines Face and Scene Detection, Intelligent ISO and Panasonic's latest Intelligent Exposure mode. Has the one of the best compacts just got better? Find out in our Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ5 review, and for a demonstration of its features, see our TZ5 video tour. Note the TZ5 is known as the TZ15 in Asia, Australia and New Zealand. Read More
Microsoft wants to fire your receptionist, are you and I next?
Every year robots get a little more capable. In Japan where there has been a short supply of security guards they've built security robots to patrols malls at night.Now Microsoft are showing off there latest foray in robotics with a new rec... (more in the full post) 
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Friday, September 5, 2008
Good Tech Ed 2008 keynote writeup at Computerworld
Good Tech Ed 2008 keynote writeup at Computerworld
At Computerworld NZ you can read a good write up of today's Microsoft Tech Ed New Zealand keynote, delivered by Amit Mital, General Manager Live Mesh:[quote]Microsoft general manager Amit Mital emphasised the advantages of agility and ... (more in the full post) 
At Computerworld NZ you can read a good write up of today's Microsoft Tech Ed New Zealand keynote, delivered by Amit Mital, General Manager Live Mesh:[quote]Microsoft general manager Amit Mital emphasised the advantages of agility and ... (more in the full post)
Windows Media Player 11 - Rolling Back to Windows Media Player 10
Windows Media Player 11 - Rolling Back to Windows Media Player 10
Want to downgrade your Windows XP machine to Windows Media Player 10? ...
Want to downgrade your Windows XP machine to Windows Media Player 10? ...
Sony Alpha DSLR-A200 review - updated results and samples
We've updated our Sony Alpha DSLR-A200 review with new results and sample images taken with a final production camera. We've compared this retail unit with what's likely to be its biggest rival, the Canon EOS 400D / Rebel XTi, and shown how they measure-up in terms of studio resolution, real-life detail and noise levels. The entry-level DSLR market has never been tougher, so to see how the latest Alpha compares against its biggest rival and its predecessor, the best-selling Alpha A100, check out the updated results and gallery pages of our Sony A200 review. For a demo of its features, see our Sony A200 video tour. Read More
One-step VHS to digital conversion for your old movies
Many of us remember the years when men were men, movies came on thick black VHS cassettes, and a well-dressed gent would wear an onion on his belt, as was the style of the time. Of course, these days we expect our media to be much more flexible, and with this in mind ION have released the VHS 2 PC - a VHS player with a simple USB output cable that lets you digitize all your old VHS content in one step and watch it online, on a DVD or a portable video player...
Tags: Digital Media, Digital Video, IFA 2008, Retro
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Olympus Zuiko Digital 12-60mm lens - full review and video tour
Olympus Zuiko Digital 12-60mm lens - full review and video tour
The Olympus Zuiko Digital 12-60mm 1:2.8-4 SWD is a general-purpose zoom lens for the Four Thirds standard. Announced alongside the flagship E-3 body, it delivers a 5x optical range that's equivalent to 24-120mm, providing decent wide angle to respectable telephoto coverage. The lens also features a brighter than average focal ratio, dust and splash-proof construction, along with fast and quiet SWD focusing. Is this the ultimate general-purpose zoom for Four Thirds owners? Find out in our Olympus 12-60mm review and as always check out the highlights in our video tour
The Olympus Zuiko Digital 12-60mm 1:2.8-4 SWD is a general-purpose zoom lens for the Four Thirds standard. Announced alongside the flagship E-3 body, it delivers a 5x optical range that's equivalent to 24-120mm, providing decent wide angle to respectable telephoto coverage. The lens also features a brighter than average focal ratio, dust and splash-proof construction, along with fast and quiet SWD focusing. Is this the ultimate general-purpose zoom for Four Thirds owners? Find out in our Olympus 12-60mm review and as always check out the highlights in our video tour
Universal Audio ships the UAD-2
Universal Audio ships the UAD-2
After four and a half years of being an industry standard DSP platform, Universal Audio's UAD-1 system was getting a little long in the tooth. While there were multiple versions of the card for desktop users and the portable UAD-Xpander, they all used a single, aging SHARC DSP. ..
Tags: Music, Production
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After four and a half years of being an industry standard DSP platform, Universal Audio's UAD-1 system was getting a little long in the tooth. While there were multiple versions of the card for desktop users and the portable UAD-Xpander, they all used a single, aging SHARC DSP. ..
Tags: Music, Production
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Sony Alpha A300 and Alpha A350 - compared to rivals
Sony Alpha A300 and Alpha A350 - compared to rivals
The introduction of Sony's brand new Alpha A300 and Alpha A350 have doubled the company's current DSLR range - and at kit prices of $799 and $899 USD respectively, stack-up favourably against the competition. Both new Sonys feature Live View with quick AF, tilting screens for greater compositional flexibility, and like all Alphas sport built-in sensor-shift stabilisation. They're likely to be big sellers, so if you're in the market for a new DSLR, you'll want to carefully compare their features against the competition - and we've done just that for you in our Sony A300 and A350 feature comparison, where you'll discover where they fit-in with models like Canon's EOS 450D / Rebel XSi and the Nikon D60, along with Sony's existing Alpha A200 and A700.
The introduction of Sony's brand new Alpha A300 and Alpha A350 have doubled the company's current DSLR range - and at kit prices of $799 and $899 USD respectively, stack-up favourably against the competition. Both new Sonys feature Live View with quick AF, tilting screens for greater compositional flexibility, and like all Alphas sport built-in sensor-shift stabilisation. They're likely to be big sellers, so if you're in the market for a new DSLR, you'll want to carefully compare their features against the competition - and we've done just that for you in our Sony A300 and A350 feature comparison, where you'll discover where they fit-in with models like Canon's EOS 450D / Rebel XSi and the Nikon D60, along with Sony's existing Alpha A200 and A700.
How to take photos at night - DSLR Tips workshop
Photos taken at night can produce spectacular results - in fact many cities present their best views after dark. Night photography can also be very forgiving in bad weather, so if rain's prevented you from grabbing the shots you want of a city, it's well worth trying again after sunset. Night photography can however prove quite a challenge in Automatic modes, but it's surprisingly easy with a few simple tricks and in our latest video workshop at DSLR Tips, we'll explain how. Read More
Microsoft Tech Ed New Zealand 2008 keynote now available in video streaming
If you were not able to attend this year's Microsoft Tech Ed New Zealand, or simply want to watch it again, Tech Ed Live is now hosting the keynote with politicians John Key and David Cunliffe, followed by Microsoft GM Live Mesh Amit Mital.... (more in the full post) 
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QuickTime for Windows - Manually Check for Updates
QuickTime for Windows - Manually Check for Updates
Manually check to see if any updates are available for QuickTime for Windows. ...
Manually check to see if any updates are available for QuickTime for Windows. ...
Nikon D700 Review
Nikon's latest full-frame camera, the Nikon D700, packs a serious punch in a more cost-conscious package than the D3. Can the D700 keep pace with its full pro sibling? Read More
Experimental study of hallucinations as they occur
September 4, 2008 A hallucination is a perception in a conscious awake state, in the absence of external stimuli, that has qualities of real perception in that they are vivid, substantial, and located in external objective space. For most of us, hallucinations are a normal, fleeting, brain glitch; yet for a few they are persistent, distressing and associated with a range of psychiatric, neurological and eye conditions. In the September Issue of Cortex, Dominic H. ffytche at the Institute of Psychiatry in London reviews what we do know and moves the field forward, by introducing a new experimental approach to studying hallucinations as they occur...
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Related Articles:
- "Brain Age 2" released for Nintendo DS
- Understanding thought: new computational modeling sheds light on how the brain works
- Mindfit: innovative brain exercise game for adults
- MindBall: an arcade game played with brainwave power
- Breakthrough in quest for mindreading
- Pain Decreases under Hypnosis
Windows Vista - Start Menu - Taskbar - Toolbars - Stop Hiding Inactive Icons
Keep Windows Vista from hiding icons in the Taskbar notification area. Read More
Sony DSC-T70 Digital Camera
Sony DSC-T70 Digital Camera
The Sony Cybershot T70 digital camera has a unique innovative feature that makes us want to shout out
The Sony Cybershot T70 digital camera has a unique innovative feature that makes us want to shout out
Follow me on Twitter
I have (finally) just got my act together with Twitter.Its something I avoided for a long time, treating it as a bit of a gimmick, but now, having used it for only a short time, I subscribe to the notion that its like a chat room, but inste... (more in the full post) 
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Linkification v3
Here we go again:iPhone / Apple:
Orange says Polish iPhone 3G customers weren't paid actors
Apple acknowledges iPhone passcode flaw, promises fix next month
Top 5 iPhone buzzkills
Apple's Next iPhone Killer App: Interactive Albums With Lyrics, Photos
Mobile / Gadgets:
Google talks Android Market app store
3 Mobile Web Apps that keep old Pocket PCs relevant
Presenting the winners of the Android developer challenge
How to Set Up a Laptop Security System
24 Killer Portable Apps For Your USB Flash Drive
Live Mesh Windows Mobile client teased
General:
Mythbusters RFID hacking episode canned by credit card company lawyers - watch the video.
Adam Savage's RFID implant activates, orders him to change his story - saw that coming.
Ginormous robot spider invades Liverpool, England
Japanese firms to partially propel cargo ship via solar panels
Microsoft to launch “Skymarket” applications marketplace for Windows Mobile 7 - anyone else see a pattern emerging here?
Desktop Wallpaper Calendar: September 2008
88% of IT Admins Would Steal Passwords If Laid Off
Google Analytics Advanced Tips and Tricks
5 Apps For Painless Windows Reformats
Getting Wireless To Work On A Laptop Running Windows Server 2008 As Its Operating System
Fix for Windows Vista forgetting folder view settings - Freakin' yes!
Keep Vista from Changing Folder View
NASA Preparing to Service Hubble for the Last Time, In Glorious Pictures
Stunning Desert Canyon Flight Scares the Underpants Off Me
More mobile - Xero adds support for Blackberry and Windows Mobile.
Stephen Fry wishes GNU a happy birthday - he also has a great podcast (or Pod-gram as he calls them).
The Deadly Aftermath of a Rocket Explosion Seconds After Launch - incredible video of what happens when launching a satelite goes wrong.
Coding / Development:
Hug a developer today - great video.
20 Websites To Help You Learn and Master CSS
Protecting Your Cookies: HttpOnly
Free New Zealand web cartography tools for educational and non-commercial purposes
Roll your own 404s with Error Page Generator
NZ Teched 2008:
Microsoft Tech Ed New Zealand 2008 keynote now available in video streaming
TechEd 2008 Summary
Darryl Burling's TechEd 2008 Summary
The unofficial TechEd blog
FAIL:
This weeks FAIL comes via a Twitter from @freitasm this morning. Parking Lot FAIL.
Xero goes more mobile...
Xero goes more mobile...
Web-based accounting just got more mobile than before - Xero has just announced they have added support for Windows Mobile (Internet Explorer Mobile) and BlackBerry (Opera Mobile), in addition to their previously announced Apple iPhone mobile site.
Point your mobile browser m.xero.com to see it in action.
Web-based accounting just got more mobile than before - Xero has just announced they have added support for Windows Mobile (Internet Explorer Mobile) and BlackBerry (Opera Mobile), in addition to their previously announced Apple iPhone mobile site.
Point your mobile browser m.xero.com to see it in action.
New Panasonic compacts include TZ5 superzoom with HD
Today Panasonic unveiled a raft of new compacts including the successor to the Lumix TZ3, one of our favourite compacts of last year. The new TZ5 features the same excellent 28-280mm stabilised zoom lens in a compact case, but upgrades both the sensor and 3in screen resolutions to 9.1 Megapixels and 460k pixels respectively. The big new feature is HD movie recording at 720p / 30fps, and HDTV connectivity with an optional component cable; this also featured on the new Lumix FX55 slim compact. The TZ5 rounds this off with an improved Intelligent Auto mode. For full details of all the new models, check our Panasonic compact camera page. Read More
Fujifilm FinePix S100fs sample shots posted to Flickr
Fujifilm FinePix S100fs sample shots posted to Flickr
We've posted an initial gallery of sample images from the Fujifilm FinePix S100fs to Flickr.
We've posted an initial gallery of sample images from the Fujifilm FinePix S100fs to Flickr.
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