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| SONY - VAIO Micro PC UX Series | VGN-UX280P |
| VAIO Laptop - UX Series |
| product code; part number; part no; model number; model no VGN-UX280P |
VAIO Laptop - UX Series ▪ Sony ▪ VGN-UX280P ▪ P/027242000112
1 year limited warranty
Updated 6/23/2008 10:25:03 PM UTC (376 days, 1 hour, 45 minutes ago) | |
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| Click to enlarge this SONY VAIO® | Click to enlarge this SONY® product. |
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| News, Reviews, Tips & Techniques, and Rumors |  |
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| Lenovo tweaks ThinkPad line with slim T400s |
| | The new Lenovo ThinkPad T400s(Credit: Lenovo)
(For more hands-on impressions, make sure to check out our review of the T400s.)
ThinkPad laptops from Lenovo (formerly made by IBM) are among the most ubiquitous PCs found in offices around the world. Of course, most of those systems are boxy 14- ... |
| | 7/01/2009 1:22 AM (3d 22h 48m ago) |
| Reviewed: Lenovo ThinkPad T400s thins down your executive briefcase considerably |
| | The T400s: it may not look exciting, but it sure feels nice to use.(Credit: Lenovo)
Although Lenovo has been reinventing itself as of late with its IdeaPad and Netbook lines, it's still a company known for boxy, business-end ThinkPads. There's no shame there: the ThinkPad was revolutionary ... |
| | 7/01/2009 1:21 AM (3d 22h 49m ago) |
| Dell launches Vostro 1220 with pretty colors |
| | (Credit: Dell )
For an entry-level 12.1-inch ultraportable, the Vostro 1220 sure is pretty. An upgrade from the Vostro 1200, this series targets the SMB user who might want to save a few bucks and doesn't need the high-end features like the Centrino vPro platform in the Latitude lineup.
... |
| | 7/01/2009 1:21 AM (3d 22h 49m ago) |
| Gateway gets into the 11.6-inch Netbook game |
| | Two views of the 11.6-inch Gateway LT3100.Every sit around worrying that 10-inch Netbooks too small for you, but 12-inch models are too big? We thought as much. Still, the option is always there with the new 11.6-inch Gateway LT3100, most notable for its 1.2GHz single-core AMD ... |
| | 6/29/2009 5:52 PM (5d 6h 18m ago) |
| Windows 7 pre-orders sell-out in Japan |
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Often companies will claim a "sellout" in order to hype incredible demand for its product. However, these claims are pointless without any firm numbers -- after all, there's a big difference between moving 100 and 100,000 units. Now we're getting word from Japan that the heavily discounted Windows 7 upgrades that went up for pre-order on Friday are sold-out. While no numbers are given, the 17 retailers involved in the pre-order sales, who presumably have no vested interest in trying to inflate perceptions on behalf of Microsoft, report sales as "considerable" and taking only 1.5 days (of the 10 days planned) to burn though the alloted inventory. A quick check on Amazon US and Canada shows the same pre-order prices we saw Friday. Still, it might be wise to take notice of the "while supplies last" disclaimer if you haven't already.Update: Engadget Japanese tells us that the 30,000 copies were sold according to Microsoft.Windows 7 pre-orders sell-out in Japan originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 29 Jun 2009 03:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 6/29/2009 5:30 PM (5d 6h 40m ago) |
| Intel's 32nm Clarkdale CPUs moved up to Q4, a full year ahead of AMD? |
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It's just a rumor, but DigiTimes has pretty decent sources within Taiwan's motherboard industry. So what was a Q1 2010 mass production launch of Clarkdale CPUs is now rumored to be coming in Q4, notable as the first Intel CPU to use its new 32nm process technology with an integrated memory controller and graphics core built on a 45nm process. This jibes with what DailyTECH and others were reporting back in Feburary. DigiTimes adds that Intel expects Clarkdale CPUs to account for 10% of its total desktop CPU shipments in Q4 rising to 20% in Q1 2010. That means we should see the chips well before the holiday shopping season (near the October 22nd launch of Windows 7 makes sense) if true. As for AMD, well, last we heard they're still looking to "ramp up" production in the middle of 2010 with mass production capabilities arriving around Q4. Yeah, we know.Read -- DigiTimes Read -- DailyTECHFiled under: DesktopsIntel's 32nm Clarkdale CPUs moved up to Q4, a full year ahead of AMD? originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 29 Jun 2009 06:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 6/29/2009 5:29 PM (5d 6h 41m ago) |
| HP Mini 5101 cleans up nice, shows the serious side of netbooks |
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Just when you thought you were safe from the netbook horde, along comes HP's new Mini 5101 to tempt you with the same basic specs once again, but this time with a slick aluminum and magnesium chassis to appeal to the "mobile professional" or anyone else with a bit of class. In a crazy twist, HP has **finally moved the mouse buttons below the trackpad (because only professionals like clicking), and has included other perks like a 7200 RPM hard drive, Bluetooth 2.0, 2 megapixel webcam, and options of either a WSVGA (1024 x 600) or "HD" (1366 x 768) 10.1-inch LED screen. There are also options for 80GB or 128GB SSD drives, four-cell or six-cell batteries, with the latter rated at an improbable eight hours of runtime, and of course WWAN. There's a start price of $449, but with some of these options we could see that shooting up pretty fast -- especially if you pick the optional USB-powered external disc drive, external speakers or port replicator. It's not cheap being cheap. The Mini 5101 goes on sale in July.Gallery: HP Mini 5101 press shotsWe got a quick hands-on with the netbook, and were fairly impressed. The square chiclet keys are much easier to hunt down than Mini 1000-series flush keys, and the proper trackpad configuration is naturally a huge bonus. We'd much prefer multitouch scrolling to the side-scrolling action, of course, but at least it's an improvement. The overall build quality is near the top of any laptop or netbook we've played with in this price range -- it's not perfect, and there's some of that telltale keyboard flex, but it's a big improvement over its largely plastic competitors and predecessor.Gallery: HP Mini 5101 hands-on shotsFiled under: LaptopsHP Mini 5101 cleans up nice, shows the serious side of netbooks originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 24 Jun 2009 00:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 6/24/2009 6:29 PM (10d 5h 41m ago) |
| Lenovo is possibly maybe thinking about an OLED ThinkPad T500 |
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Laptops of all sorts are getting thinner, even the decidedly stoic and business-minded ThinkPad series. Hot on the heels of impressing us with its T400 refresh Lenovo is letting slip that it's having thoughts of putting its T500 series on a diet as well, with marketing manager David Critchley indicating that the company wouldn't be opposed to making a super-thin OLED version of the laptop -- "if demand is there." That's not really saying much since just about any company would do the same if they thought they could sell enough of the things. Well, maybe not Toshiba. That might be a little too exciting to fit in with the rest of its lineup.Filed under: LaptopsLenovo is possibly maybe thinking about an OLED ThinkPad T500 originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 24 Jun 2009 11:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 6/24/2009 6:19 PM (10d 5h 51m ago) |
| Acer rolls out new budget-minded Aspire laptops |
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They may not be quite as thin and light as Acer's Timeline laptops, but the company's latest trio of Aspire models will at least save you a few bucks, and give you some decent enough specs as well. On the low-end of the lot are the 15.6-inch AS5536 and the 17.3-inch AS7735Z (pictured above), the former of which packs an AMD Athlon 64 X2 processor, 3GB of DDR2 RAM, ATI Radeon HD 3200 graphics, and a 320GB hard drive, while the latter sports a Pentium T4200 processor, 4GB of DDR3 RAM, Intel GMA 4500MHD graphics, and a 250GB hard drive. Both of those, however, are bested by the 15.6-inch AS5739G, which dials things up to a Core 2 Duo T6500 processor, 4GB of RAM, NVIDIA Geforce GT130M graphics with 1GB of memory, a 250GB hard drive, and a built-in Blu-ray drive -- all for just $750. Look for all three to be available this month, with the AS5536 and AS7735Z running $480 and $600.
Filed under: LaptopsAcer rolls out new budget-minded Aspire laptops originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 22 Jun 2009 15:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 6/22/2009 8:30 PM (12d 3h 40m ago) |
| Microsoft extends XP downgrade availability to 2011. When will it end? |
| | Hold onto your hats folks, 'cause Microsoft has just done the unthinkable and extended availability of its Windows XP downgrade option, again. This latest move, of course, follows complaints that new licensing issues with Windows 7 could cause some serious headaches for businesses still hanging onto XP, and basically force them to either stock up on XP-ready systems before April 23rd, 2010 or face the possibility of Vista-only downgrades thereafter. The new deadline isn't quite as clear cut as past ones, however, with Microsoft saying only that the XP downgrade option will be available for 18 months after the release of Windows 7, "or until the release of a Windows 7 service pack, whichever is sooner." So, as ComputerWorld notes, if Microsoft pushes an SP1 update out the door six months after Windows 7 is released, folks could well be out of luck yet again -- at least until Microsoft sets a new deadline, that is.[Via Electronista]Filed under: Desktops, LaptopsMicrosoft extends XP downgrade availability to 2011. When will it end? originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 19 Jun 2009 13:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 6/20/2009 12:13 AM (14d 23h 57m ago) |
| Sony unveils 15.5-inch VAIO NW with BD-ROM and $880 price tag, we go hands-on |
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Sony announced today a new entry into its VAIO series, the NW, complete with a Blu-ray drive and what they're hoping is an aggressive pricing point. It's packing a 15.5-inch WXGA display with XBRITE, 2GHz Intel Core 2 Duo P7350, ATI Mobility Radeon HD4570 with 512MB VRAM, a 4x BD-ROM drive, 4GB of DDR2 RAM, webcam, 802.11a/b/g/n, a 400GB HDD, and a Li-ion battery that's at best 5.5 hours in large capacity and at worst 1.5 hours with the standard-sized version. Port-wise, we've got VGA and HDMI output and Memory Stick Pro, ExpressCard, and SD card slots. We got a chance to get some hands-on time with the portable, and we gotta say, it's a pretty impressive little number. It's not the most slender 15-incher, but at six pounds, it's lighter than we expected. The chiclet keys -- dubbed "isolated keyboard" by Sony PR -- are comfortable to use, as is the textured trackpad. Body and hinge felt sturdy, with an intentionally rugged and stylistic feel to it, and as one rep was excited to show, the metallic "Vaio" logo on the back makes a great reflection in the sun. From what we saw, Blu-ray playback was smooth, but we did notice horizontal viewing angles weren't the best. We'll reserve judgment when we get some play time with the unit and see how hard we can push the software, but for now we're pretty happy with what we've seen. Starting price isn't too shabby, at $880 equipped with the BD-ROM and $800 without, and it comes in three colors: white, grey, and dark brown. Striking your fancy? Look for it to ship out pretty quickly, as in some time next month.Gallery: Sony unveils 15.5-inch VAIO NW with BD-ROM and $880 price tagGallery: Sony VAIO NW hands-onFiled under: LaptopsSony unveils 15.5-inch VAIO NW with BD-ROM and $880 price tag, we go hands-on originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 18 Jun 2009 20:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 6/19/2009 6:15 PM (15d 5h 55m ago) |
| Leaked Lenovo roadmap shows Calpella laptops coming January 2010? |
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Our compatriots at Engadget Chinese have happened upon what looks to be a roadmap for Lenovo's upcoming laptops between now and March 2010. Recently in the wild T400s is on there, slated for mid-July or so, with a pair of new SL models following in August. More interesting than all that, however, is the sheer number of new X, T, W, SL, and SLc laptops listed for for the beginning of 2010 that utilize Intel's upcoming Calpella platform. We're not gonna put too much stock into these pictures right now, but it definitely raises a few eyebrows. More slides after the break.Continue reading Leaked Lenovo roadmap shows Calpella laptops coming January 2010?Filed under: LaptopsLeaked Lenovo roadmap shows Calpella laptops coming January 2010? originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 19 Jun 2009 00:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 6/19/2009 6:14 PM (15d 5h 56m ago) |
| Dell Vostro 1220 leaks out, looks as cool as it sounds |
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It's hard to hate on Dell's Vostro lineup: cheap is cheap, and there's nothing wrong with that. In truth, it could probably look a lot worse, but there's just something vaguely depressing about these unflattering leaked shots of what's apparently a crimson version of an upcoming 12-inch Vostro 1220 model -- in comparison with the fairly clean lines of the existing lineup, these new curves aren't doing the laptop any style favors, though it's at least an improvement over the existing 12-inch model. Specs are certainly alright, with a Core 2 Duo T6750 processor (remember back when every small, cheap computer wasn't running Atom?), 4GB of RAM, a 320GB hard drive, SD card slot, ExpressCard and even a fingerprint reader, and we're sure the price is even better. No word on a release date.Gallery: Dell Vostro 1220 leaks out, looks as cool as it soundsFiled under: LaptopsDell Vostro 1220 leaks out, looks as cool as it sounds originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 19 Jun 2009 10:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 6/19/2009 6:13 PM (15d 5h 57m ago) |
| 3G-equipped Acer Aspire One 531 netbook hits the US |
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Acer's Aspire One 531 has been floating around Europe since April, but it looks like it's finally made its way to a few retailers over here, and in a couple of different versions no less. Those include the AO531h-1791 "Pro" version, and the AO531h-1440 and AO531h-1766 "Normal" versions, the former of which packs 2GB of RAM and XP Professional, while the latter two dial things back to 1GB of RAM and XP Home. Otherwise, you'll get the same 10.1-inch 1,024 x 600 display on each, along with the usual Atom N270 processor, a 160GB hard drive, and built-in 3G, which can bring the price of the normal version down to just $150 if you also sign up for an AT&T service plan. Plan on spending upwards of $450 if you want to go your own way.
Filed under: Laptops3G-equipped Acer Aspire One 531 netbook hits the US originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 16 Jun 2009 15:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 6/17/2009 4:19 PM (17d 7h 51m ago) |
| Switched On: When netbooks suffer from 'Droid rage |
| | Ross Rubin (@rossrubin) contributes Switched On, a column about consumer technology.
Despite powering only a handful of handsets available on the market, Android has already had a significant impact on the competitive landscape in smartphones. Looking at its primary rivals that run on a variety of hardware from multiple manufacturers, Android has provided a free and highly customizable licensed challenge to Windows Mobile, And competition with the Google-developed mobile operating system may have also provided the final push of Symbian into the world of open source.
Just because Android has turned the tables, though, does not mean it should be used on devices that rest on them. Recently, the infatuation with Android has led to much speculation and supplication regarding the operating system as an alternative on netbooks and less proven "gaptops" that live between the smartphone and the notebook. But while blazing benchmarks may erase any speed records set by netbooks running Windows, they can't erase what amounts to a weak case for Android on these devices.
Recent history shows that the overwhelming majority of consumers want Windows on their netbooks. This has become especially true as the market has shifted from the quasi-appliance like original Asus Eee, with its suboptimal 7" screen, to most netbooks running 10" and now even larger screens and vendors such as Dell and HP that are pillars of the Windows hardware world have grabbed market share. Even these manufacturers have more to gain by going with their own twist on Linux. HP, for example, has created a unique and differentiated experience with its Linux environment for netbooks. It will take some time before various Android implementations are so unique. It's unclear why an Android-based netbook would fare much better than Linux-based netbooks have.
Continue reading Switched On: When netbooks suffer from 'Droid rageFiled under: LaptopsSwitched On: When netbooks suffer from 'Droid rage originally appeared... |
| | 6/17/2009 4:18 PM (17d 7h 52m ago) |
| Intel Celeron, Core i7, and Atom lineup leaked? |
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The sun rises, seasons change, CPUs get faster, and Intel's plans get leaked. That's the way it works, so while this report from Digitimes listing out Intel's chip releases through the beginning of next year should be taken with a grain of salt, feel free to make it a small one. Apparently there's a new line of celery-packing Celeron processors coming in Q3 called E3000, starting with the 2.4GHz E3200 and the 2.5GHz E3300. Both feature 1MB of L2 cache, 800MHz FSB, 65W power consumption, and hardware virtualization, meaning either can take you to XP-on-Win7 nerdvana. There will also be a new Core i7 960 chip with a core frequency of 3.2GHz in the fourth quarter, which is also when the nettop-intended dual-core Atom D510 will drop, while the more portable-friendly dual-core Atom D410 won't release until Q1 next year -- bad news for those who'd been hoping for a speedier netbook under the Christmas tree.Filed under: Desktops, LaptopsIntel Celeron, Core i7, and Atom lineup leaked? originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 15 Jun 2009 07:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 6/15/2009 3:17 PM (19d 8h 53m ago) |
| Gartner: Android on ARM "more snappy" than Windows 7 on Atom |
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The case for running Android -- an OS developed for smartphones -- on cheap, ultra-portable laptops has yet to be made. However, that hasn't stopped manufacturers from tinkering with the idea as demonstrated by the broad range of Android "smartbooks" running on ARM-based (be it Snapdragon, Tegra, or Freescale) architectures at Computex. Now Gartner, the guiding force for many corporate CIOs, has issued a research note that puts Atom-based netbooks running Windows 7 on notice while giving credence to the emerging smartbook category of ultra-portables. Analysts Christian Heidarson and Ben Lee said the following in Gartner's Semiconductor DQ Monday Report:
When Android did work, we found that the user interface was very snappy on relatively low-performance ARM processors, more so than Windows 7 on Atom.
Of course, Windows 7 scales much better than Vista and as a full-blown desktop OS gives users a lot of flexibility as long as the netbook's chipset is up to the task. Then again, if you're looking for a purpose-built, fanless 10-inch ultra-portable with integrated WWAN data and FireFox browser that costs less than $200 and plays 25 days of music or 10-hours of 1080p video off a single charge, well then a smartbook might be the device for you. We'll see which carrier is brave enough to sell 'em come October.Filed under: LaptopsGartner: Android on ARM "more snappy" than Windows 7 on Atom originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 15 Jun 2009 07:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 6/15/2009 3:17 PM (19d 8h 53m ago) |
| New Toshiba Satellite laptops land in Europe |
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Toshiba's added a couple new Satellite laptops into the mix, with options for both the road warrior and the stay-at-home multimedia user. First, the A500: this guy sports a 16-inch, 16:9 format display (1366 x 768), a TV-tuner for both analog and digital DVB-T programming, Harman Kardon speakers and HDMI ports with REGZA LINK technology. Under the hood, this guy packs an Intel Core 2 Duo, 8GB memory, an ATI Mobility Radeon HD GPU (up to 1GB DDR3 VRAM), and either a 500GB HDD or 64GB SSD. For those of you on the ultra-portable tip, the U500 is a 13.3-inch (16:10 format, 1280 x 800) ultraportable that weighs in at just under 4.5 pounds. With an Intel Core 2 Duo processor, 8 GB memory, a hard disk capacity of up to 500GB, and an ATI Mobility Radeon HD 4570 GPU, this bad boy is available in Brown Luxe, with either chrome or silver accents. Claimed battery life is over 3.5 hours. Both lappies feature a DVD Super Multi drive, wide format HD webcam, multi-touch trackpad, and the usual host of connectivity options (WLAN, Bluetooth 2.1, 5-in-1 media card slot). Both will be available in Europe sometime this July for €699 (approx. $975).Read - Toshiba Satellite U500 with ATI Mobility Radeon HD 4570Read - Toshiba Satellite A500 by 16 inches
Filed under: LaptopsNew Toshiba Satellite laptops land in Europe originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 09 Jun 2009 14:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 6/09/2009 10:21 PM (25d 1h 49m ago) |
| Windows 7 not likely to jolt PC market |
| | Microsoft's top Windows business executive said Monday that for all his excitement about Windows 7, he doubts the release of the operating system will lead to a significant spike in PC sales. "History would tell us that generally as you ship a Windows release into the market...the bump is very modest," Microsoft senior vice president Bill Veghte said in a "fireside chat" at the UBS Global Technology and Services Conference. "You will see a little bit, but it is modest." ... |
| | 6/08/2009 3:48 PM (26d 8h 22m ago) |
| First Acer Android netbook will dual-boot Windows |
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Ha, and you thought that you'd be getting away from the Microsoft tax. Sorry -- Acer chairman JT Wang says that the first Android netbooks will ship with Windows in dual-boot configurations. While your first reaction might be to call JT a Microsoft patsy, he's not, it's smart to hedge, actually, since Android is unproven as a netbook OS and Wal-mart consumers usually don't like being surprised by computers that don't work like the ol' home computer. Besides, these Android netbooks seem to be targeting carriers as resellers so you'll like get a big fat discount when you take one home on contract. Happy?Filed under: LaptopsFirst Acer Android netbook will dual-boot Windows originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 05 Jun 2009 03:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 6/05/2009 3:43 PM (29d 8h 27m ago) |
| Windows 7 goes on sale October 22nd |
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digg_url = 'http://digg.com/microsoft/Official_Windows_7_on_sale_October_22nd'; We knew good and well the next iteration of Windows would be generally available this fall, but now we've a date to circle in our datebooks: October 22nd. Yep, the fourth Thursday in the tenth month of this year will mark the first date in which you -- the general consumer -- can purchase Win7, which gives you plenty of time to figure out which of the 94 variants will suit you best. Have fun![Thanks to everyone who sent this in]Filed under: Desktops, LaptopsWindows 7 goes on sale October 22nd originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 02 Jun 2009 13:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 6/03/2009 4:28 PM (31d 7h 42m ago) |
| Windows 7 to launch October 22 |
| | Microsoft confirmed on Tuesday that it is planning for Windows 7 to hit retail shelves and start showing up on new PCs on October 22. To reach that milestone, Microsoft plans to wrap up development of the operating system by the middle or end of next month, Senior Vice President Bill Veghte said in an interview. "The feedback from the release candidate has been good," Veghte said. Microsoft made the near-final release candidate version available last month. Shortly after its release, Microsoft finally confirmed that it was aiming Windows 7 for a holiday 2009 release, something that was widely anticipated, but not confirmed by those in Redmond. In an interview, Phil McKinney, chief technology officer of Hewlett-Packard's computer unit, said that he feels good about Microsoft's launch date. "We're locked and loaded for the launch," McKinney said. "The quality of code is just absolutely stellar." ... |
| | 6/02/2009 10:43 PM (32d 1h 27m ago) |
| Acer launching world's first Android-based netbook in Q3 |
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Acer's been straightforward with the fact that it's been dabbling with Android on netbooks. In fact, the entire industry seems to be. Now we've got word that Acer will in fact launch an Android-based netbook in the 3rd quarter of 2009. The move was announced by Acer's global president for IT products, Jim Wong. The Android netbooks will run Atom (sorry Tegra hopefuls) and presumably cost less than Windows XP-based netbooks that require an estimated $25 tithe to Microsoft. Acer will continue to offer Windows-based netbooks along side the Android builds. Whether Android, an OS designed for smartphones, will succeed in gaining back market share lost to Microsoft remains to be seen. But if Microsoft's boasting about consumers wanting netbooks offering the same OS experience they're used to is true, well, how can Android succeed where those early Linux distros failed?Filed under: LaptopsAcer launching world's first Android-based netbook in Q3 originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 02 Jun 2009 05:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 6/02/2009 5:27 PM (32d 6h 43m ago) |
| MSI notebook first with Intel's ultra-low voltage processor |
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(Credit: MSI)
The battle over ultrathin, low-voltage laptops has begun in earnest.
MSI announced Wednesday the availability of the X340, the first notebook to hit the market sporting Intel's new CULV (consumer ultra-low voltage) processor.
The X340 is the first of many ultrathin notebooks that look a lot like ... |
| | 6/01/2009 4:44 PM (33d 7h 26m ago) |
| Updated Windows 7 and Vista downgrade rights leaked |
| | Are you ready to have your mind blown by some truly incredible gadget news? No, we're not talking about our peek at the Zune HD with none other than Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer. In fact, we have spicy hot new Windows licensing details. According to Tech ARP, Microsoft will soon allow end users to downgrade from Windows 7 Professional or Ultimate editions to either Windows Vista Business or Window XP Professional. If that weren't enough, OEMs may now choose to install XP Professional, XP Pro Tablet, or XP Pro X64, instead of Windows Vista Business / Ultimate -- as long as they fulfill a bunch of legalistic requirements regarding activation markers, certificates of authenticity, Windows Vista Logo criteria, and other stuff you probably don't care about. It looks like the repudiation of Windows Vista is continuing apace... and we're guessing that it doesn't stop until it results in a series of war crimes tribunals in The Hague. (We can dream, can't we?)Filed under: Desktops, LaptopsUpdated Windows 7 and Vista downgrade rights leaked originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 29 May 2009 10:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 5/29/2009 7:58 PM (36d 4h 12m ago) |
| Alienware's Allpowerful laptop teases with riddles |
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Five days before launch and out pops another teaser for the Alienware Allpowerful gaming laptop. The image above again comes courtesy of the cats and kittens over at the NotebookReview forums. Noted symbolist, Larven, went so far as to translate the gibberish on the picture setting the forum into a tizzy of code cracking. It reads line-by-line as follows: The sum of the first four primes (Answer: 17 hinting at a 17-inch display or Core i7 maybe?) Denotes a state of two parts (Core 2 Extreme or dual-GPUs perhaps?) Known as the gentleman's muscle car of 1967 (Plymouth GTX pointing to NVIDIA graphics?) When pure, it will carry a yield strength of 7-11 mpa (Aluminum chassis?)Is always empty in zero sum games (Core?) Of course, with a name like Allpowerful, we're expecting something big here. We've seen Core i7 laptops before, but dual GTX 260M / 280M GPUs might be a little much? We'll turn the sleuth-work over to you now dear readers. Best guess gets a HTTP cookie.[Thanks, MAG]Filed under: Gaming, LaptopsAlienware's Allpowerful laptop teases with riddles originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 28 May 2009 07:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 5/28/2009 4:03 PM (37d 8h 7m ago) |
| Dell stays vivacious with Studio 14z, gets going at $649 |
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Go 'head with your bad self, Dell! The colorful Studio line is expanding this fine morning, with the newest member rocking a slightly unorthodox 14-inch (LED) display size. Designed for hipster students and those at the top of the computing bell curve, this perfectly average portable offers up Core 2 Duo CPU options, 720 / 900p screen resolutions, integrated NVIDIA GeForce 9400M graphics, HDMI / DisplayPort outputs, a 1.3 megapixel webcam, dual headphone jacks, up to 500GB of HDD space, a 34mm ExpressCard slot, six-cell battery (an optional eight-cell will last over six hours), WiFi, optional Bluetooth and even an external Blu-ray drive if you're feeling frisky. Supposedly the machine will be available to order later today in the US and Canada, with prices starting at $649.Gallery: Dell stays vivacious with Studio 14z, gets going at $649Filed under: LaptopsDell stays vivacious with Studio 14z, gets going at $649 originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 28 May 2009 07:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 5/28/2009 4:03 PM (37d 8h 7m ago) |
| Lenovo gets real with new lineup |
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It's the time of year when PC makers start announcing their new lineups for the summer and fall. One thing is very clear: Lenovo is stepping up its game.
The Chinese PC maker that has enjoyed much success from the iconic ThinkPad business notebook has faltered when it has come to consumer PCs in the U.S. But the new Netbook, notebooks, and all-in-one desktop that the company plans to announce Tuesday show it has had a reality check on pricing and the kind of features consumers are looking for.
Probably the product most indicative of Lenovo's shifted approach to consumer computing is a 13-inch notebook called the IdeaPad U350. As is the trend with notebooks now, it measures just an inch thick, weighs 3.5 pounds, and sports an attractive metallic finish. But the inside is more interesting: The U350 will come loaded with an Intel CULV (consumer ultra-low voltage) chip.
Lenovo's new IdeaPad U350(Credit: Lenovo)
The CULV is Intel's newest chip, a low-voltage dual core chip for mobile PCs. It promises better battery life (the U350 says it will get four hours). But Lenovo is one of the first to use it. So far the only other company to announce using it is Acer, in its TimeLine notebook series.
And while getting one of these out ahead of Hewlett-Packard or Dell is aggressive, so is the price: the U350 starts at $649. For a full-featured notebook PC, that's a huge departure for Lenovo, noted Bob O'Donnell, PC analyst at IDC.
"$649 is good. Acer is at $599 (with its 13-inch TimeLine notebook), but Lenovo is in the ballpark and that is critical for them," he said.
While Lenovo certainly knows how to make a thin and light notebook--see the ThinkPad--it hasn't quite translated its expertise to pricing of consumer-oriented notebooks. But now Lenovo is clearly getting real: Without stating it directly, Lenovo has basically said that the U350 is going to take the place place of the IdeaPad U110 in terms of its importance to Lenovo's overall lineup. ... |
| | 5/27/2009 4:54 PM (38d 7h 16m ago) |
| Lenovo S12 Netbook announced: It packs heavy-duty Ion graphics |
| | HDMI Netbooks are landing: The S12(Credit: Lenovo)
Just when we were ready to accept the stuttery nature of our Netbook HD video playback, along come Nvidia and Lenovo at long last to change our expectations. The IdeaPad S12, arriving in August, will be the first Netbook sporting discrete graphics ... |
| | 5/27/2009 4:54 PM (38d 7h 16m ago) |
| Windows Vista SP2 is live, ready to download |
| | Face it: in between waiting for Windows 7 to launch and tweaking the XP build on your newly purchased netbook, there's this little thing called Windows Vista that needs to be maintained. Today, Microsoft did its part and released the standalone installers for the 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Service Pack 2 for Vista and Server 2008. Now it's all up to you. Hit the read links to patch the Wow with a little SP2 Meh.[Thanks, Justin W.]Read -- 32-bitRead -- 64-bitFiled under: Desktops, Handhelds, LaptopsWindows Vista SP2 is live, ready to download originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 26 May 2009 07:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 5/27/2009 4:51 PM (38d 7h 19m ago) |
| Sony updates plethora of VAIO laptops in Japan |
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Ah, Spring. The season of vacations, beach attire and VAIO updates. We already heard that Sony was giving its VAIO P netbook a dose of Windows XP and an optional 256GB SSD, but that was just the tip of the iceberg. Indeed, the Type T, Type Z, Type F and Type A are all getting makeovers, so we'll do our best to break 'em down right. The beastly A series will continue to be menacing, boasting an 18.4-inch 1080p panel, WiFi, a HDD / SSD hybrid system, 4GB of RAM, a Blu-ray drive and a GeForce 9600M GT. The F series rolls in with a 16.4-inch display, 4GB of memory, ATI's 256MB Mobility Radeon HD 3470, WiFi, a battery good for three hours and a Core 2 Duo P8700. The other guys are seeing far lighter touchups, but you can feel free to have a look at all of these Japan-bound units in the links below.Gallery: Sony updates plethora of VAIO laptops in JapanRead - VAIO updates IRead - VAIO updates IIFiled under: LaptopsSony updates plethora of VAIO laptops in Japan originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 26 May 2009 15:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 5/27/2009 4:48 PM (38d 7h 22m ago) |
| Windows 7 branding leaks out |
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You didn't think Microsoft was going to ship Windows 7 with that same tired Vista-esque branding it's been using on the betas and RCs, did you? No way, man -- and if those crazy-cool wallpapers didn't prove it to you, the eager monkeys at MS China have thoughtfully posted up the new branding for your persual right now. We rather like it -- it conveys a welcoming sense of lightness that contrasts well with the battleship-heavy aesthetic of Vista, and that's pretty much exactly how Microsoft needs to position 7. A few more shots of the branding being used at the Chinese PCBETA event at the read link.[Thanks, Nicola] Read - Microsoft China Windows 7 site Read - Branding at PCBETAFiled under: Desktops, LaptopsWindows 7 branding leaks out originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 22 May 2009 15:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 5/22/2009 8:25 PM (43d 3h 44m ago) |
| BrandIndex: Microsoft's ads effective |
| | Filed under: Apple Corporate, HardwareBrandIndex is reporting this week that Microsoft's "Laptop Hunter" and similar ads are changing consumer's perceived value of Windows machines. YouGov conducted a survey of 5,000 consumers to measure the "value score" of both Macs and Windows machines. The value score represents a customer's perception of "bang for the buck." We don't know exactly how that's measured by the survey.What they found was a steady increase in Microsoft's score since the price-conscious ads began. Simultaneously, Apple's score has fallen.You can argue the validity of the commercials' claims, but what's undeniable is that people shop on price. When John Q. Public decides to buy a computer, 9 times out of 10 his initial thought is, "What's this going to cost me?" Most shoppers aren't like you and me, concerned with statistics and performance. They want cheap. As someone who has bought hundreds of computers for two schools over 8 years, I know what I'm talking about.While the ads may infuriate Mac nerds like us, they might persuade everyone else.[Via Electronista]TUAWBrandIndex: Microsoft's ads effective originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Wed, 20 May 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 5/21/2009 4:27 PM (44d 7h 43m ago) |
| Crimson Red Dell XPS 16 in the wild? |
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So about that apparently canned crimson red Dell XPS 16 laptop. We received a handful of pics from a tipster who claims to have gotten one about a month ago when he returned his other, decided un-red model for a screen replacement. We don't want to say this is 100 percent legit without holding it in our hands, but if this is the beauty we once had the option to purchase, Dell, please, bring crimson back. Gallery: Crimson Red Dell XPS 16 in the wild?[Thanks, P]Filed under: LaptopsCrimson Red Dell XPS 16 in the wild? originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 17 May 2009 14:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 5/18/2009 5:06 PM (47d 7h 4m ago) |
| Microsoft's Virtual WiFi will make Windows 7 wireless adapters do a double-take |
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It's been a long, long time since Microsoft Research first released its findings on Virtual WiFi, or VWiFi, technology that would allow a single wireless network adapter to act like two, two, two NICs in one. Now that innovation is finally ready for the big show: inclusion in Windows 7 -- or at least some flavors of it. The tech lets one piece of WiFi hardware be represented in Windows as two separate adapters, meaning you can connect to two hotspots simultaneously if you like, or turn your virtual device into an access point that others can connect to. Apparently this functionality is indeed included in the latest release candidate, but as there are no drivers currently supporting this feature it's not enabled. Expect the driver situation to change very soon, and expect hotel fee-based wireless internet access companies to start crying foul not long after.Filed under: WirelessMicrosoft's Virtual WiFi will make Windows 7 wireless adapters do a double-take originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 18 May 2009 08:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 5/18/2009 5:02 PM (47d 7h 8m ago) |
| We get it, Windows means cheap hardware |
| | Filed under: Analysis / Opinion, Apple Corporate, AppleMicrosoft's latest advertising campaign, while more stimulating than the Seinfeld/Gates spots, has one goal and one goal only: sell PCs. Microsoft's endgame, it seems, is to persuade people into purchasing Windows-running PCs by leveraging the fact that Macs are more expensive than PCs. I'm not going to get into this argument because a) it's been done before, and b) the answer always comes out with just a little bias. In my opinion, the hardware comes out costing the same (with negligible differences) no matter how you run the numbers. What I would rather discuss is how Microsoft is making its attack and what it is actually doing to help Apple.Let's first focus on what Microsoft is not doing. Microsoft, as you will notice if you have watched any of the commercials, is not talking about Windows, at all. This is interesting given the fact that Microsoft is a software company first and foremost. It is also interesting when taking into consideration that Apple's wildly popular "I'm a Mac" campaign knocked Windows' flaws and shortcomings without holding anything back. Windows Vista is capable of some pretty impressive stuff and Microsoft is not touting any of it.Windows and OS X are very similar in terms of what they allow users to accomplish and yet, in many ways, they are very different in how they allow users to accomplish varying tasks. I'm not saying that one OS is necessarily "better" than the other (at least not now, I'll say that later). The two camps are different, though, and it is surprising to see Microsoft not point out the areas in which Windows is (or is perceived to be) better than OS X.However, what Microsoft is throwing some pretty hard punches by pointing out one glaring fact: Macs are not inexpensive. This is not to say that Macs are too expensive; I'm not going to get into this argument. What I will say, however, is that the numbers are close. Maybe not exact, but close enough. Given that Macs are... |
| | 5/18/2009 4:56 PM (47d 7h 14m ago) |
| Sony posts $1b loss, first in 14 years |
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Here's the good news: Sony's ¥98.9b ($1.03b) loss is slightly less than the $1.1b the company told us it would lose in January. Sadly, all of the other news is bad, starting with the fact that the company just lost a freaking billion dollars, its first loss in 14 years, and it's predicting a similar $1.1b loss next year. Electronics sales were down 17 percent, the Sony-Ericsson phone partnership is struggling, and game division sales dropped 18 percent primarily due to Sony's continued reliance on falling PS2 sales. As for the PS3, it's actually a dim bright spot: hardware cost reductions and increased game sales slightly stemmed the tide, but Sony's still expecting the division to lose money in the coming year. Sony also says it has "extensive measures" in store to try and turn things around after that, so we're hoping Sir Howard's plans to embrace open formats and listen to consumers are kicking into gear, but we'll see.Read - Sony financials [Warning: PDF]Read - Reuters reportRead - MarketWatchFiled under: Misc. GadgetsSony posts $1b loss, first in 14 years originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 14 May 2009 11:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 5/14/2009 3:55 PM (51d 8h 15m ago) |
| Video: Apple responds to Microsoft's Laptop Hunters... with a Megan |
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digg_url = 'http://digg.com/apple/Apple_responds_to_Microsoft_s_Laptop_Hunters_with_a_Megan'; According to Apple, there aren't any PCs with fast processors and big screens that work without viruses, crashes or headaches. But folks, this isn't reality, this is advertising. In fact, this is Apple's first jab since Microsoft took off the gloves with its Laptop Hunters series of pokes against Apple. So grab a Coke (or Pepsi) and check the ad after the break.[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]Continue reading Video: Apple responds to Microsoft's Laptop Hunters... with a MeganFiled under: Desktops, Misc. Gadgets, LaptopsVideo: Apple responds to Microsoft's Laptop Hunters... with a Megan originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 13 May 2009 00:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 5/13/2009 3:21 PM (52d 8h 49m ago) |
| Microsoft Windows 7 on track for the holiday season |
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Well, we thought this might happen -- especially after the news that Acer's Z5600 all-in-one will be shipping with Windows 7 pre-loaded, come October 23rd of this year. And now it's official: Windows 7 is on track to be released this "holiday season." Now, this announcement may be officially vague, but it is official. Sometimes in this business (as in life) we take what we can get.
Filed under: Desktops, LaptopsMicrosoft Windows 7 on track for the holiday season originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 11 May 2009 14:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 5/12/2009 4:47 PM (53d 7h 23m ago) |
| Lenovo gets official with mildly refreshed IdeaPad S10-2 netbook |
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Lenovo's S10 has walked a long, rough road. First it battled months of delays, then hordes of anxious owners began weeping rivers due to incessant fan noise. Lenovo already made a few attempts to better its cute-as-a-button netbook, but now it's ditching the little-by-little approach entirely and introducing a 'Part II' version. The understandably titled S10-2, which we spotted via a handy user manual just last week, is officially official, and while it's still rocking the same basic specs (1.6GHz Atom N270, 1GB of RAM, 160GB HDD, WiFi, 1.3 megapixel camera, etc.), there have been a few appreciated tweaks made. There's a new cover design, a larger keyboard, a bigger trackpad and a model with integrated 3G that'll run just $50 more than the standard $349.99 flavors; too bad Lenovo didn't take this opportunity to dish out an entirely new IdeaPad with a CPU that's marginally robust.Gallery: Lenovo IdeaPad S10-2Filed under: LaptopsLenovo gets official with mildly refreshed IdeaPad S10-2 netbook originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 11 May 2009 15:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 5/12/2009 4:46 PM (53d 7h 23m ago) |
| Dell's $299 Mini 10v now officially on sale |
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Looks like Dell's Stateside online store has put the new $299 Atom N270-powered Mini 10v (née Inspiron 1101) up for order after it went on sale in Denmark late last night. Preliminary ship date is listed as June 1, but we're guessing it'll arrive a little sooner, as the original date was "mid-May." Anyone taking the plunge?[Thanks, MethodicJon]Filed under: LaptopsDell's $299 Mini 10v now officially on sale originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 11 May 2009 22:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 5/12/2009 4:44 PM (53d 7h 26m ago) |
| Carry your Wi-Fi with the Verizon Mifi |
| | The Mifi takes your Wi-Fo on the go(Credit: Verizon Wireless)
Verizon Wireless on Wednesday announced a new portable hot spot device that creates a Wi-Fi connection for wireless devices. The MiFi (get it...MiFi?) will deliver the carrier's 3G wireless network to up to five gadgets including laptops, ... |
| | 5/07/2009 4:08 PM (58d 8h 2m ago) |
| Windows 7 RC 1 now available for public consumption |
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digg_url = 'http://digg.com/microsoft/Windows_7_RC_1_now_available_for_public_consumption'; Looks like Microsoft decided to pull the trigger just a hair early on this one. Windows 7 Release Candidate 1 is now available to the public at large. If you haven't gotten your hands on it, now's your chance to try it out well into 2010. What are you still reading this for? Hit up the read link to download. [Thanks to everyone who sent this in!]Filed under: Desktops, LaptopsWindows 7 RC 1 now available for public consumption originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 04 May 2009 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 5/05/2009 3:39 PM (60d 8h 31m ago) |
| Microsoft to distribute Vista until at least January 2011, ending mainstream support by April 2012 |
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Just because Windows 7 is right around the corner doesn't mean Microsoft intends to immediately sweep Vista under the rug and forget about it. After some confusion around the 'nets today, a company spokesperson confirmed with PC World that its policy is to back an OS for at least four years from launch, meaning January 2011 here, but also said it plans to cut ties and drop mainstream support for the three consumer models within three years, before April 2012. Despite the minimum, most Windows variants have seen longer lifecycles -- XP, for example, had mainstream support for eight years after launch. Business and Enterprise users will still receive security updates until April 2017. Sure, it's good to see people will still have the option for Vista further down the road, but we don't expect a lot of OEMs or consumers will be opting for it once 7 goes gold. Read - Vista's fading support Read - XP's support lifecycleFiled under: Desktops, LaptopsMicrosoft to distribute Vista until at least January 2011, ending mainstream support by April 2012 originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 05 May 2009 01:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 5/05/2009 3:39 PM (60d 8h 31m ago) |
| My kid's Netbook is better than your kid's Netbook |
| | Specifically marketed with kids in mind, PeeWee PC is a site that offers not only kid-friendly PCs, but also laptops customized for your ever-growing child.
On Wednesday, PeeWee PC is rolling out the Atom-powered PeeWee Pivot Tablet Laptop. The 3-pound PeeWee Pivot Tablet Laptop--which is more of a tablet Netbook than a laptop--sports a rotating screen that converts between a normal notebook orientation and a touch tablet.
(Credit: PeeWee PC)
Kids can use either a keyboard or an included stylus to interact with their favorite programs or games. The unit features a rugged, spill-resistant case that's designed to endure the bumps and knocks the younger generation has to offer. So, parents, when your child goes into a temper tantrum and flings the machine around, you might be knocked on your a**, but know that your investment has sustained the fall from your head to the floor.
Kidding aside, the PeeWee Pivot Tablet Laptop runs Windows XP on a 10-inch screen, 1.6GHz Atom processor, 1GB of RAM (upgradeable to 2GB) and a 60GB hard drive. In addition, the tablet has two USB 2.0 ports, an SD/MMC media card reader, a VGA port, 802.11b/g/n Wi-Fi, and a 1.3-megapixel Webcam. Reminiscent of Intel's Classmate PC in 2007, the Pivot Tablet has a carrying handle that's removed by taking out the battery and then removing the four screws that affix the handle.
The PeeWee Tablet Laptop ships with game titles for pre-K, early elementary, or upper elementary students, plus a free Walt Disney Windows XP theme, and a proprietary security suite so parents have complete control of how and when kids use the notebook--parents can also view browsing histories, block sites, take screenshots, and control the system remotely.
... Originally posted at Digital City Podcast |
| | 5/01/2009 4:31 PM (64d 7h 39m ago) |
| Windows 7 RC and XP given extensions on life well into 2010 |
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Whether or not Windows 7 does launch in October as previously suggested, those who have (or plan to get) Release Candidate will be happy to hear that Microsoft won't be pulling the plug until June 1, 2010, well over a year from now and 11 months after its initial expiration date. After that, you're gonna have to fork over the Benjamins for one of the retail SKUs if you wanna keep 7 alive. As for those still living in Redmond's past, the company's also extended the life of XP, at least for OEMs. Companies using the older OS will still be able to install it on netbooks for up to one year after 7's official shape date. Seeing as the new system's likely to have a more expensive licensing fee, it's probably the best move if the company plans on keeping that 96% grip on the netbook OS market.
[Via gadgetmix]
Read - Windows 7 RC extension
Read - Windows XP extensionFiled under: Desktops, LaptopsWindows 7 RC and XP given extensions on life well into 2010 originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 01 May 2009 00:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 5/01/2009 4:20 PM (64d 7h 50m ago) |
| More on Windows 7's 'XP Mode' |
| | Microsoft on Tuesday offered up a few more details on its once-secretive project to use virtualization to offer an "XP Mode" for Windows 7. As noted on Friday, Microsoft is using its Virtual PC technology to allow Windows 7 users to run programs that work in Windows XP but not in Windows Vista. On Tuesday, it noted some more of the fine print regarding the product. As far as technical requirements, XP Mode needs a beefier system than that required to just run Windows 7 or XP alone, including at least 2GB of memory and a system that has chip-level virtualization from either Intel or AMD. One of the challenges is that today it is often not that easy to tell whether one's PC has such support. ... |
| | 4/28/2009 9:29 PM (67d 2h 41m ago) |
| HP unveils ProBook s-series laptops for the businessperson who needs a bit more power |
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HP's adding a little bit of freshness to its portable lineup this evening with the new ProBook s-series, designed as affordable business-centric laptops but should be capable of pulling off a decent game or two for those long flights. The 14-inch 4410s and 4415s pack Intel / AMD processors, respectively, optional Blu-ray drive, HDMI port, and choice of GMA X4500HD or ATI Mobility Radeon HD 4330. The 15.6-inch 4510s (Intel) and 4515s (AMD) includes an optional mobile broadband connectivity module and an integrated numeric keypad. Grandaddy of them all 4710s lacks the mobile broadband and AMD processor options but does sport a larger 17.3-inch screen. In what's being touted as a first for the company, you can have Linux preinstalled if you're interested in using Novell SuSE Enterprise Desktop 11. According to the presser, prices start around $529, and there's a USB 2.0 docking station available for $139. Read - Product listingsRead - Press releaseFiled under: LaptopsHP unveils ProBook s-series laptops for the businessperson who needs a bit more power originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 28 Apr 2009 00:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 4/28/2009 6:08 PM (67d 6h 2m ago) |
| Virtualized Windows XP coming to Windows 7 Professional and Ultimate users |
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digg_url = 'http://digg.com/microsoft/Virtualized_Windows_XP_coming_to_Windows_7'; Color us intrigued. The gang at SuperSite for Windows have revealed what they know about a pretty awesome Windows 7 feature: XP Mode, a virtualized copy of Windows XP with Service Pack 3. It'll reportedly be a free download for Professional and Ultimate Edition users, a shame it won't be coming to all versions. Unlike many other Virtual PC options, the environment won't require a separate workspace so you can run the individual apps as you would alongside those native to 7 -- in the example pictured, that's Word 2003 in XP mode next to Word 2007. It all sounds vaguely similar to the XP compatibility mode found in Vista, but if we're understanding this right, XPM should make legacy compatibility much less of a hassle. We haven't heard any reports of it being found in the leaked Release Candidate build, so if you're antsy to get a glimpse now, hit up the read link for a gallery.[Thanks, Axel]Filed under: Desktops, LaptopsVirtualized Windows XP coming to Windows 7 Professional and Ultimate users originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 24 Apr 2009 19:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 4/26/2009 4:28 PM (69d 7h 42m ago) |
| Windows 7 RC 7100 making its way to OEMs, a torrent tracker near you |
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It seems a little early in the game to be talking Windows 7 release candidates, but that's just the way we like it. Apparently build 7100 has made it into the wild, complete with release candidate plumage and naturally rapid dissemination. Word has it that this could be the RC version Microsoft is planning to release to its MSDN / TechNet subscribers on May 5th, but we'll have to wait until next month to find out for certain sure. The less scrupulous among us should have no trouble tracking down RC 7100 in the meantime.[Via ITavisen]Read - DailyTechRead - SevenForumsFiled under: Desktops, LaptopsWindows 7 RC 7100 making its way to OEMs, a torrent tracker near you originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 24 Apr 2009 09:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 4/24/2009 4:05 PM (71d 8h 5m ago) |
| Bluetooth 3.0 + HS gets official, adds speed with 802.11 |
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The rumors were true, and today's the day that the Bluetooth SIG gets official with the latest, greatest version of Bluetooth. Bluetooth 3.0 + HS, as it'll be called, promises to be markedly faster than prior iterations thanks to the reliance on 802.11, which is the same protocol used by WiFi modules, routers, etc. The new standard obviously catapults Bluetooth into a new dimension; rather than being good for nothing more than sending images from one phone to another or syncing a fitness module to a DAP, v3.0 is nimble enough to handle camcorder-to-HDTV, PC-to-PMP and UMPC-to-printer transfers. In fact, the inclusion of the 802.11 Protocol Adaptation Layer (PAL) provides increased throughput of data transfers "at the approximate rate of 24Mbps." We had sit-downs with Mike Foley (executive director of the Bluetooth SIG) and Atheros CTO Bill McFarland in order to find out a few more details about plans for the protocol -- if you're eager to hear what they had to say, not to mention see a demonstration of BT 3.0 at work, follow us past the break.Continue reading Bluetooth 3.0 + HS gets official, adds speed with 802.11Filed under: WirelessBluetooth 3.0 + HS gets official, adds speed with 802.11 originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 21 Apr 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 4/21/2009 9:44 PM (74d 2h 26m ago) |
| Full text from "Legal Copy" ad isn't quite PC-specific |
| | Filed under: Analysis / Opinion, OS, Retail, Odds and ends, AppleYou've probably seen all of the new Get a Mac ads we posted about on Sunday, and if you haven't yet, go ahead and watch them now. We'll wait. Just let us know when you're back, we'll be playing a little Zen Bound. Done? If you saw the Legal Copy ad, you know that's the one where as PC makes crazy and crazier statements about PC reliability, the screen fills up with unreadable legal copy. Unreadable, that is, if you're watching on a computer, and not so much if you're watching on a huge HDTV.And so yes, MacJournals has actually retrieved and reprinted all of the text that appears in that ad. When Hodgman says "PCs are 100% trouble free," there is a long paragraph about how computers are targeted by spyware and malware, and how you have to install software drivers if you want to use any peripherals, how PC users should back up their systems, and how if they are not under warranty, they are not guaranteed a refund or replacement.But wait a minute, says MDJ, don't those last few notes apply to Macs as well? Are Mac users able to avoid requiring backups, and is Apple trying to say that even after their warranties expire, they'll be giving out refunds and replacements (actually, they sometimes do that, though it's definitely not guaranteed)? Still, if the PC faithful wanted to nitpick -- and where exactly are the PC faithful these days, again? -- there's definitely plenty of nitpicking to do here. It seems like Apple needed to fill out the text for the joke of the ad, but it's too bad they couldn't just stick with PC problems (and there are plenty of those) rather than include some common computer issues in there as well.[via Aulia Mastna]TUAWFull text from "Legal Copy" ad isn't quite PC-specific originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Tue, 21 Apr 2009 09:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 4/21/2009 3:37 PM (74d 8h 33m ago) |
| Is Microsoft finally embracing Blu-ray? |
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Maybe you noticed already, but in the latest installment of Microsoft's "Laptop Hunters" ad campaign, 11-year-old Jackson and his mother, Lisa, pick a 16-inch Sony Vaio notebook that's game-friendly and has something no Apple MacBook is offering: Blu-ray. When mother and son learn the Sony laptop has the ... |
| | 4/20/2009 9:15 PM (75d 2h 55m ago) |
| Apple releases 4 new 'Get a Mac' ads |
| | John Hodgman (left and center) and Justin Long reprise their roles as PC Guy and Mac Guy in four new Apple ads.(Credit: Screenshot by Tom Krazit/CNET)
Apple released four new Get a Mac ads Monday, continuing its nearly 3-year-old campaign tweaking Windows PCs weeks after Microsoft began firing back at Apple.
The new ads are available on Apple's Web site, and will no doubt flood the airwaves in due course. Apple is following its old playbook with the new spots, tweaking PC guy as played by John Hodgman as virus-prone (Conficker), unstable, and difficult to use.
Microsoft's recent ads have focused on price comparisons with Macs, and Apple makes a brief reference to that line of thinking in the "Stacks" ad, in which Mac guy (Justin Long) responds to PC guy's observation that the facial-recognition technology in the new iPhoto must be expensive by noting that it comes free with every new Mac.
But otherwise it's the same old strategy of pushing the Mac as an easier-to-use and more reliable computer, with few references to price. One new twist is that a controversy has already sprung up over some of the claims in the "Legal Copy" ad.
... Originally posted at News - Apple |
| | 4/20/2009 9:14 PM (75d 2h 55m ago) |
| Apple bites back at Laptop Hunter ads, 'agrees' with Microsoft that Macs are cool |
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Looks like Apple finally has something to say to Lauren, Giampaulo, Lisa, Jackson, and any future laptop hunters showcased in Microsoft's new commercial series. In a statement to Macworld, spokesperson Bill Evans goes through the usual list of touted Mac features -- security, stability, design -- before quipping, "a PC is no bargain when it doesn't do what you want." Ouch. He continues by "agreeing" with Microsoft that, yes, everyone does think its computers are cool. We don't expect Redmond's ready to end the ad campaign anytime, and as enjoyable as this statement is, our only hope is that the gang at Cupertino ups the ante and retaliates tit-for-tat by sending Hodgman on an filmed adventure through Best Buy.Filed under: LaptopsApple bites back at Laptop Hunter ads, 'agrees' with Microsoft that Macs are cool originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 16 Apr 2009 21:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 4/18/2009 1:13 AM (77d 22h 57m ago) |
| Mobile data card growth slows dramatically in Q4 2008 |
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Who woulda thunk it? A global recession leads to belt tightening, and belt tightening leads to fewer mobile data card sales. According to a new report from ComScore, that's exactly what happened at the tail end of last year, where WWAN card growth slowed to just 5 percent compared to 28 percent in Q4 2007. Still, carriers can't grumble too loudly -- after all, at least it grew. In fact, PC data card adoption rose 63 percent overall in 2008, and if any of these 4G services can see rollouts of significance, we suspect 2009 will show equally positive numbers. The reality is that mobile data is still priced far too high for the average Joe or Jane to stomach; most mobile broadband plans run upwards of $50 per month and require a two-year contract to get a free or cheap card, and unless one is planning to be on the road an awful lot, buying in just doesn't make sense when times are tough. In other words, cut us a break on these mobile data rates, operators -- it's what Uncle Sam would want.[Via mocoNews]Filed under: Cellphones, Peripherals, WirelessMobile data card growth slows dramatically in Q4 2008 originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 14 Apr 2009 10:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 4/14/2009 5:02 PM (81d 7h 8m ago) |
| Electronics innovation on track, despite the recession? |
| | The Wall Street Journal is out this morning with an analysis showing that, as major U.S. companies are cutting jobs and wages, many (including many consumer electronics companies) are still spending on innovation. Big U.S. companies spent nearly as much on research and development in the dismal last quarter of 2008 as they did a year earlier, even as their revenue fell 7.7%, according to a Wall Street Journal analysis. (Registration and a subscription is required to read the Wall Street Journal article online.) The sampling looked at 28 of the largest U.S. R&D spenders, excluding deeply troubled auto makers and the drug industry, where R&D spending is dictated by government requirements. The takeaway: On the one hand, the study suggests the flow of innovative new electronics products may not diminished by the recession as much as feared back in January, when electronics editor Paul Reynolds posted that "it's hard to imagine that the many job cuts announced by electronics sector, and the rumors of more to come from the likes of Sony, won't in some way affect development of new products." The WSJ analysis, which begins on page one of today's paper and turns to a full inside page, points out that many companies have “learned from past downturns that they must invest through tough times if they hope to compete when the economy improves.” It includes a cautionary comparison from the last major recession, when Apple boosted R&D spending even as their sales dropped while Motorola cut theirs by 13 per cent. The result: Apple launched the first iPods in the midst of the recession, and later saw its sales soar, while Motorola lost ground in developing sequel products to its hit RAZR cellphone, eventually losing ground. However, the piece also cautions that "the robust R&D spending may be temporary," and may in part reflect how long it can take to cut corporate budgets, including those for innovation. Also, the WSJ notes that some R&D is being retooled to deliver safer, short-term... |
| | 4/06/2009 4:03 PM (89d 8h 7m ago) |
| Microsoft's second Laptop Hunters commercial: Giampaulo buys an HP HDX |
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digg_url = 'http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/04/microsofts-second-laptop-hunters-commercial-giampaulo-buys-an/'; The second installment of Microsoft's Laptop Hunters commercials went live today, and if you thought our actress friend Lauren lit a fire, well, get ready for Giampaulo, who professes to be "technically-savvy" and calls the unibody MacBook he looks at "so sexy," but ultimately rejects it because he wants to pay for "computing power," not the "brand." Armed with a $1,500 budget, he walks out of Fry's with an HP HDX 16 that features a 2.4GHz Core 2 Duo, NVIDIA GeForce 9600M GT graphics, 4GB of RAM, and a 500GB drive -- raw numbers that would cost you $2,499 from Apple, although you'd be getting a vastly better display. Fair? We leave that up to you -- video after the break.P.S.- That's the two commercials and two HP machines purchased, anyone sensing a trend?[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]Read - CNETRead - The Fry's listing for the $1,099 HP HDX 16Continue reading Microsoft's second Laptop Hunters commercial: Giampaulo buys an HP HDXFiled under: LaptopsMicrosoft's second Laptop Hunters commercial: Giampaulo buys an HP HDX originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 04 Apr 2009 18:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 4/06/2009 3:56 PM (89d 8h 14m ago) |
| Need a higher-res screen for your Netbook? Dell's Mini 10 adds a 720p option |
| | While the new Dell Mini 10 is still not shipping (the site currently promises a prelimiary ship date of April 15), there is a new option available in the online configurator.
Users who want a little more screen real estate than the typical 1,024x600 found in most Netbooks (Dell'... |
| | 4/05/2009 8:01 PM (90d 4h 9m ago) |
| Microsoft Releases Second 'Laptop Hunters' Commercial |
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Microsoft has released a second commercial in their new "Laptop Hunters" ad campaign targeting Mac prices. In the new commercial, "Giampaolo" is given a budget of $1500 with which to find to a laptop with his desired features of portability, battery...
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| | 4/05/2009 7:58 PM (90d 4h 12m ago) |
| Some thoughts on the new Microsoft ads |
| | Filed under: Analysis / Opinion, AppleWell, the new ad blitz from Microsoft has begun. Advertising agency Crispin Porter + Boguksy is back at it with a new web video and click through banners that tell the story of Lauren, a Los Angeles woman (and member of the Screen Actors Guild) who was recruited from Craigslist. She supposedly didn't know she was in a Microsoft ad, but instead thought she was in a laptop marketing test.She was given a thousand dollars after saying she wanted a 17-inch laptop with a good keyboard. She tried an Apple Store, but couldn't find anything at the price she wanted. She wound up with an HP Pavilion (here are the specs) running Windows Home Premium and a pretty slow AMD processor. She has minimal screen resolution and about 2 1/2 hours of battery life if she's lucky. All in all, not a bad machine, but certainly not a 17" Mac which would have been a lot more money.Of course the laptops were not comparably equipped, so the cards were stacked in Microsoft's favor. That's what commercials do. Microsoft has been pummeled for more than 3 years by the extremely popular Mac vs. PC guys. Microsoft responded last summer with the Mojave ads, where people were tricked into believing they were seeing a brand new OS from MS, when in fact they were just seeing Vista. They were told about the features, and loved them. What they weren't allowed to do, however, was actually use Vista, or try to install it on their own PCs. Those were telling omissions.Microsoft followed up with the Jerry Seinfeld-Bill Gates ads. They were fun to watch, but had no discernible message. Interestingly, Vista was never mentioned.Now we come to the new ads, which doubtless will be followed by more shopping trips. In the first ad, Vista is never mentioned, just like in the Seinfeld commercials. Interesting. MS does not make computer hardware. Instead, their main product is an OS which is currently Vista. Yet in 2 out of 3 'expensive' ads, not a word about the flagship operating system... |
| | 3/30/2009 4:45 PM (96d 7h 25m ago) |
| Samsung posts N110 product page, pre-orders get going |
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Heads-up, netbook lovers -- Sammy's latest is totally official, though it's becoming so after a bona fide review. At any rate, Samsung has just recently hosted up a product page for its 10.1-inch N110, which brags about its 9.5 hour battery life, 2.8 pound body and 93 percent full-size keyboard. Specs wise, it's still rockin' the tried-and-true N270 / 1GB / 160GB combo, which makes it pretty tough to choose over the far less expensive ASUS Eee PC 1000HE. At any rate, those who've somehow found the value proposition to be more enticing can get in line now for $441.99 at Buy.com, while the Samsung-linked CompSource has it listed for $458.Read - Samsung N110 product page [Via Liliputing]Read - Buy.com pre-order [Via PortableMonkey]Filed under: LaptopsSamsung posts N110 product page, pre-orders get going originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 29 Mar 2009 17:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 3/30/2009 4:37 PM (96d 7h 33m ago) |
| Is it uncool to be a Mac user in these tough times? |
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On Thursday, Microsoft started running new anti-Mac ads that are designed to take a serious poke at the one spot where Apple has traditionally been vulnerable: pricing.
All you have to do is shop for a computer to know that Macs are more expensive than Windows machines on a spec-by-spec ... Originally posted at Fully Equipped |
| | 3/27/2009 4:05 PM (99d 8h 5m ago) |
| Wireless Innoviation: Welcome To Your TV's White Space |
| | The space between the channels on your television is where the future of communication, wireless Internet, and even portable television lives. The potential for these White Spaces is limited only by creativity, ingenuity, and the need for clear rules of the road. The Wireless Innovation Alliance, a coalition of creators, developers, and leaders in technology, urges the FCC to determine and adopt rules that will realize the potential of TV white spaces for us all. |
| | 3/20/2009 5:54 PM (106d 6h 16m ago) |
| Microsoft releasing Internet Explorer 8 gold today, CIOs ecstatic |
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Browsers have arguably become more important than the underlying OS in the modern, connected world. So take note when Microsoft announces an update to the Web-dominating software favored by your IT department. When the clock strikes 12:00 noon in New York, Microsoft says it'll release its much anticipated Internet Explorer 8 software to the world. Out of beta, Steve Ballmer claims that IE 8, "gets people to the information they need, fast, and provides protection that no other browser can match." Time will tell, eh hax0rs?Read -- press releaseRead -- download link (active at 12:00 EST)Filed under: Misc. GadgetsMicrosoft releasing Internet Explorer 8 gold today, CIOs ecstatic originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 19 Mar 2009 03:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 3/19/2009 4:57 PM (107d 7h 13m ago) |
| Dell Adamo announced: 1.2GHz Core 2 Duo, $1,999 |
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digg_url = 'http://digg.com/hardware/Dell_Adami_Announced_1999'; After months of drawn-out buildup, the Adamo endgame has played out pretty damn fast: we had pricing and box pictures leak just about an hour ago, and now Dell's officially announced the first machine in the Adamo line, the 13.4-inch model we saw at CES. Sadly, it sounds like beauty is only aluminum-skin deep here: that hot little case holds a 1.2GHz Core 2 Duo U9300 with integrated Intel X4500 graphics, 2GB of RAM, and a 128GB SSD, and it all weighs four pounds -- a pound more than the MacBook Air. Not exactly a barnstormer, especially for $1,999 -- it looks like you're spending the majority of that cash on high-end design flourishes like a magnetic cover that hides the Microsoft-required Windows authenticity sticker. Hopefully this thing will be joined by some higher-powered siblings when it arrives on March 26th, keep your fingers crossed. Two videos and the full release after the break.Update: Looks like CNET scored one early -- check out their hands-on here, and a pic of that magnetic cover here.Gallery: Dell AdamoContinue reading Dell Adamo announced: 1.2GHz Core 2 Duo, $1,999Filed under: LaptopsDell Adamo announced: 1.2GHz Core 2 Duo, $1,999 originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 17 Mar 2009 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 3/17/2009 3:44 PM (109d 8h 26m ago) |
| Sony 2009 line show: Complete coverage |
| | Consider yourself invited: CNET pulls back the curtain to Sony's Vegas event.(Credit: Sony)
Most companies use the January Consumer Electronics Show to show the world their product lineup for the new year. But Sony deliberately holds back on its CES announcements; that's because the company waits about eight weeks before returning to Las Vegas to have its own Sony-centric launch event, where it touts its new products for dealers, retailers, and journalists.
Photos: Sony hauls cameras, electronics to Vegas
... |
| | 3/04/2009 5:39 PM (122d 6h 31m ago) |
| Transcend boasts new high-speed solid-state drive |
| | (Credit: Transcend)
Transcend, the company that introduced a solid state drive-based external drive the other day, on Thursday unveiled its 192GB Solid State Drive.
Despite the mundane name, the new drive is equipped with NAND flash memory and offers up to 192GB of storage, a fast sustained read performance of ... Originally posted at Inside CNET Labs Podcast |
| | 2/06/2009 5:51 PM (148d 6h 18m ago) |
| Chatty laptop tries to talk sense into thieves |
| | (Credit: Front Door Software)
Various security systems help you keep your laptop safe from thieves. But a new feature added to Front Door Software's Retriever product lets your machine give audible and visual warnings that can be activated remotely.
For example, if your laptop is stolen, you can activate ... |
| | 2/04/2009 12:48 AM (150d 23h 22m ago) |
| The Sony P-series Lifestyle PC: Just don't call it a Netbook |
| | Much like Apple, Sony likes to keep its Vaio products aimed at mid-to-high-end buyers and generally eschews the budget end of the market (although there are actually a handful of sub-$600 Vaios we've reviewed fairly favorably).
When it comes to Netbooks, it's no different; Sony's entry into the very hot minilaptop category shares a lot with Netbooks such as the Dell Mini 9 or Asus Eee PC, but clearly goes out of its way to avoid being lumped in with them.
The P-series Lifestyle PC is one of the smallest laptops we've seen; it is almost similar to a UMPC, but with a traditional clamshell laptop design. The widescreen 8-inch 1600x768 display and tiny keyboard make for a form factor that has roughly the same footprint as a standard white business envelope, and is less than 1-inch thick, weighing 1.4 pounds.
To fit a reasonably full-featured PC into a chassis this small, some sacrifices had to be made, and we're worried the lack of a standard touch pad (instead there's a ThinkPad-like pointing stick), will keep this new system from being as useful as it could be. It does, however, include a 3G mobile broadband antenna, 802.11n Wi-Fi, GPS, and Bluetooth, with mobile broadband service provided by Verizon.
Like several other laptops we've seen recently, there's a pre-Windows instant-on operating system, which uses the familiar Sony cross-media bar menu found on the PlayStation 3 and handheld PSP consoles. Once you boot into Windows, instead of the XP variety found on most Netbooks, it has Vista, although the 2GB of RAM (up to 4GB capacity) should help it run smoothly.
Sony told us it was planning on marketing this almost clutch-size laptop specifically to women, but we didn't take them seriously until we saw these lines in the official press release:
"Designed for the fashionista in all of us, it's the ideal companion..."
"The spacing between keys has also been engineered to help reduce typing mistakes making it perfect for long fingernails."
The P-series Lifestyle... |
| | 1/08/2009 4:52 PM (177d 7h 18m ago) |
| Dan's favorite laptops of 2008 |
| | After looking at countless laptops during 2008, a small handful have jumped out as personal favorites. I'm not saying these are the very best laptops of the year, nor the highest-rated -- they're just the ones that struck me as particularly interesting, useful, or well-designed.
Chances are high ... |
| | 12/28/2008 4:26 PM (188d 7h 44m ago) |
| Sony teases with mystery laptop |
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Is Sony referring to a Netbook here?
CES 2009 is fast approaching, and rumors of new laptops are everywhere. This week though, the focus is on Sony.
Though enterprising news outlets have dug up hints at new products from the likes of Dell and Lenovo weeks before the big gadget exhibition, Sony is outing itself as having a new portable PC that will "change the way you think about laptops." A clock counting down the days and hours until January 9, when the new product is scheduled to appear, popped up on Sony's New Zealand site, as pointed out over the weekend by Engadget.
Putting the teaser in context of the photo of the oddly-shaped Sony device that popped up on the FCC's Web site two weeks ago, it certainly seems likely that this will be a notebook unlike what others are offering.
But the question is, will it be a Netbook? Sony has been conspicuously absent from the Netbook market among its Windows-wielding brethren. (Apple has held out too, but it's not price-matching with other PC makers.)
Netbooks have taken off in the past 12 months, moving from a quirky offering from Asus to the form factor that's giving the PC industry a whiff of hope. All the major manufacturers are on board, and it's paying off now since the price tags are cheaper than standard notebooks. However, how it will hurt them in the long run (dragging down average prices of notebooks, cannibalizing lower-end laptop models) is still to be determined.
The argument for Sony keeping out of the low-end fray is certainly there. Sony--like Apple--fancies itself a maker of luxury devices and is loath to get into price wars with the likes of Dell and HP. (Of course, it didn't want to wrestle with the lower-tier Vizio and Westinghouse in LCD TVs either, but the reality of the HDTV market forced Sony's hand.)
... |
| | 12/27/2008 8:52 PM (189d 3h 18m ago) |
| Microsoft extends Windows XP deliveries to May 30, 2009 |
| | Man, Microsoft just can't bring itself to kill Windows XP dead -- it just extended the final OEM and reseller delivery date for the venerable OS to May 30, 2009. Vendors will still have to place their orders before the official cutoff date of January 31, but they won't have to take delivery (or pay, we'd imagine) until May. All of this is supposed to alleviate the problem of vendors stockpiling copies of XP -- it wouldn't be good for Microsoft if manufacturers start charging a demand-related premium for XP licenses after Redmond goes Vista-only. Of course, Microsoft also recently extended the Vista "downgrade" deadline for OEMs to July 31 and netbooks will still be able to kick it old-school until at least June 2010, so chances are you'll be able to get XP one way or another until Windows 7 ships -- let's just hope all this waffling on XP means that 7's going to be as good as we think it is.Filed under: Desktops, LaptopsMicrosoft extends Windows XP deliveries to May 30, 2009 originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 22 Dec 2008 11:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 12/22/2008 6:01 PM (194d 6h 9m ago) |
| 3D desktop revealed in Apple patent filing |
| | Future Mac OS X desktops could be presented in three dimensions.(Credit: U.S. PTO via MacRumors)
Are you ready for a 3D desktop?
Apple is working on such a project, according to patent filings unearthed by MacRumors this week. The "multidimensional desktop" applications suggest that Apple wants to take ... Originally posted at News - Apple |
| | 12/18/2008 5:15 PM (198d 6h 54m ago) |
| Intel's 32nm chips ready for MIDs and netbooks in 2009 |
| | In 2005 Intel revealed its 65-nm manufacturing process, then 45-nm in 2007. Today, in keeping with its "tick-tock" strategy, Intel is announcing a further shrinkage to its manufacturing process as it ends the development phase for 32-nm chip circuitry. That puts the chips on a production schedule for Q4 2009 -- interesting as Intel's rumored 32-nm Medfield chip wasn't expected until the first half of 2010. According to Intel, the new chips incorporate second-generation high-k + metal gate technology with transistors that switch 22% faster than its current 45-nm Penryn chips. Why should you care? Well, the smaller chips are cheaper to manufacture which should translate to consumer savings. They also require less power than Intel's notoriously power-friendly Atom-class chips. As an interesting side note, the Wall Street Journal is reporting that Intel has also disclosed a variant of its 45-nm process (the Lincroft-based Pineview we presume) "that is tailored to create chips for portable computing devices that require low power consumption." Uh, those wouldn't be targeting ARM by any chance would they Intel? Wink wink, nudge nudge.
[Via Wall Street Journal]Filed under: Handhelds, LaptopsIntel's 32nm chips ready for MIDs and netbooks in 2009 originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 10 Dec 2008 02:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 12/10/2008 4:37 PM (206d 7h 33m ago) |
| Microsoft Vista Ultimate gets the (PRODUCT) RED treatment |
| | It's not like (PRODUCT) RED versions of Windows Vista haven't been shipping on associated systems for months now, but for those who'd prefer to keep the rig they have and just get a colorful / charitable upgrade to Microsoft's latest OS, this is for you. Listed on the official (PRODUCT) RED website and up for pre-order now at Amazon, the special edition of Windows Vista Ultimate is slated to ship on December 15th. There's not too many extras here to make you splurge for a second copy (a few new wallpapers and a big warm, fuzzy feeling are definitely nice, though), but those looking to get a new OS and support the push to end AIDS in Africa can buy in now for $219.95 ($64.95 for students). |
| | 12/08/2008 5:24 PM (208d 6h 45m ago) |
| Apple Exploring Liquid Notebook Cooling Systems for Cooler Laps |
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MacNN reports on a newly published Apple patent application which details ongoing research into alternative cooling systems for notebook computers.
Specifically, Apple explores the possibility of a liquid cooling system for th...
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| | 12/04/2008 2:51 AM (212d 21h 19m ago) |
| When Blu-ray and laptops collide |
| | Sony's Vaio FW270 features a Blu-ray drive and a fair price.
If you're waiting for Blu-ray players to dip below the $99 mark before replacing your DVD player, let us offer an alternate solution: a Blu-ray-equipped laptop.
While Blu-ray drives first appeared on huge laptops with 18.... |
| | 11/27/2008 7:34 PM (219d 4h 36m ago) |
| Newsweek: Why we need better batteries |
| | Batteries are becoming the weak link in our high-tech lives as computers and other technology advances quickly but batteries--constrained by the laws of physics and chemistry--evolve very slowly. |
| | 11/26/2008 4:30 PM (220d 7h 40m ago) |
| Apple releases Safari 3.2.1 |
| | Filed under: Software Update
Apple just updated Safari to version 3.2.1. According to Software Update, "This update includes stability improvements and is recommended for all Safari users." Apple updated Safari only a few weeks ago, adding protection from phishing websites. If you've been paying attention to the Apple updates this week, then you know that they've done some heavy updating in this area. The past few days have seen updates to iPhone/iPod touch, iTunes, Apple TV, Pro Applications, Trackpad, and QuickTime.You can get the Safari update, or any other updates you might be missing, by opening Software Update (Apple menu > Software Update). You can also download the installer packages from the Apple Support Downloads website.Thanks to monu, and others for the tips! TUAWApple releases Safari 3.2.1 originally appeared on The Unofficial Apple Weblog (TUAW) on Mon, 24 Nov 2008 17:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 11/25/2008 4:08 PM (221d 8h 2m ago) |
| Samsung starts mass production of 256GB SSDs |
| | (Credit: Samsung)
The main things keeping solid-state drives out of the mainstream are their high costs and low capacities. Currently, 128GB SSDs sell for around $400, far more expensive than comparable traditional mechanical drives while still holding less data.
Samsung's aiming to fix that with its new 256GB SSD, ... |
| | 11/24/2008 5:42 PM (222d 6h 28m ago) |
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| | 11/24/2008 5:41 PM (222d 6h 28m ago) |
| Ease Your Holiday Travel: TSA Announces "Checkpoint Friendly" Laptop Bag Procedures |
| | To help streamline the security process and better protect laptops, TSA recently encouraged manufacturers to design bags that will produce a clear and unobstructed image of the laptop when undergoing X-ray screening. A design that meets this objective will enable TSA to allow laptops to remain in bags for screening.If you intend to use a "checkpoint friendly" laptop bag once they are on the market, make sure to check that: - Your laptop bag has a designated laptop-only section that you can lay flat on the X-ray belt - There are no metal snaps, zippers or buckles inside, underneath or on-top of the laptop-only section - There are no pockets on the inside or outside of the laptop-only section - There is nothing in the laptop compartment other than the laptop - You have completely unfolded your bag so that there is nothing above or below the laptop-only section, allowing the bag to lie flat on the X-ray belt Remember, a well designed "checkpoint friendly" bag must be packed appropriately if you intend to leave your laptop in your bag for screening. |
| | 11/20/2008 3:25 PM (226d 8h 45m ago) |
| Toshiba Introduces Half-Terabyte 2.5-inch Hard Disk Drive With Ultra-Quiet Acoustics and Enhanced Durability |
| | State-of-the-Art Design Features Provide a Valuable Storage Solution for High-Capacity Mobile PCs, Game Consoles, Printers and External Storage
Toshiba Storage Device Division (SDD), the pioneer in small form factor hard disk drives (HDDs), today announced a half-terabyte 5,400 RPM, Serial-ATA (SATA) 3.0 Gb/s 2.5-inch HDD with a number of enhanced features that improve the user [...] |
| | 11/19/2008 5:15 PM (227d 6h 55m ago) |
| Sony batteries involved in another recall |
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Updated at 2:15 p.m. PDT with the names and quantities of notebooks affected by each manufacturer.
More than two years after the largest battery recall in the electronics industry, Sony batteries have been fingered again as the culprit in more than 40 worldwide incidents of laptops overheating.
Sony ... |
| | 10/31/2008 3:44 PM (246d 8h 26m ago) |
| Laptop shipments exceed desktops in US for the not-exactly-first time |
| | Filed under: Desktops, Laptops
Hope you're eager to break into that Halloween candy early, because you've got some (re)celebrating to do. If you'll recall, we first heard that laptops accounted for over half of US retail computer sales back in 2003, and in June of 2005, we found that it was somehow worth getting jazzed over once more when it happened again. Here we are in the latter half of 2008 shaking our heads in disappointment, as IDC has amazingly discovered that notebook shipments into the US market have exceeded the 50% threshold for the first time evar. Go ahead and stock up on rave supplies early -- we get this weird feeling that we'll be doing this same song and dance in 2010 or so.[Image courtesy of DayLife]Laptop shipments exceed desktops in US for the not-exactly-first time originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 28 Oct 2008 09:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 10/29/2008 5:58 PM (248d 6h 12m ago) |
| Microsoft signals some improvements in Windows Vista SP2, |
| | It hasn't been too awfully long since Windows Vista SP1 hit the intertubes for real, but the Vista team is already talking up SP2. Granted, we all know Redmond is focused on moving beyond all of this Vista hoopla and forging ahead with Windows 7, but there's apparently still some work to do on the outfit's current OS. Unfortunately, the latest update isn't exactly enthralling, as we're given no set time frame for launch and we're not shown any forthcoming changes that really get our juices flowing. For instance, Vista SP2 will add Windows Search 4.0 for faster and improved relevancy in searches, the Bluetooth 2.1 Feature Pack, ability to natively record data on Blu-ray media and Windows Connect Now (WCN) to simplify WiFi configuration. Wait, did you just yawn? You did. We saw it. |
| | 10/26/2008 4:58 PM (251d 7h 12m ago) |
| New Family: Seinfeld/Gates Microsoft Commercial |
| | "New Family"... Seinfeld/Gates Microsoft commercial. Long version.First ad Shoe Circus. Very funny parody of Shoe Circus here (alternate ending, watch the very end). |
| | 9/12/2008 4:13 PM (295d 7h 57m ago) |
| Microsoft/Seinfeld Ad: Shoe Circus |
| | Microsoft has started running their new ads using comedian Jerry Seinfeld and Microsoft founder Bill Gates. The first in presumably a series of ads show Bill Gates and Jerry Seinfeld in Shoe Carnival. Seinfeld was reportedly paid $10 million for his work in this series of ads. The goal of the ads are to revamp Microsoft's image. |
| | 9/06/2008 4:43 PM (301d 7h 27m ago) |
| Sony recalls laptops for possible overheating |
| | Sony recalls Vaio laptops worldwide over wiring flaw that could cause overheating Sony Corp. is recalling 440,000 Vaio laptop computers worldwide because of a wiring flaw that could cause overheating.Sony said Thursday the recall involves 19 models in the Vaio TZ series manufactured between May 2007 and July 2008.The Tokyo-based consumer electronics company said improperly placed wires near the hinge connecting the body of the laptop and its display could wear quickly, causing a short circuit and overheating. A flaw in a circuit board inside the display could also overheat its rim.Sony has received 209 reports of overheating worldwide, including seven cases in which people received minor burns.The laptop problem comes two years after Sony had to engage in massive recalls of laptop batteries, which also caused overheating or even burst into flames. |
| | 9/04/2008 4:10 PM (303d 8h ago) |
| TechForward - future proof your gadget’s value |
| | As we all know, every high-tech piece of equipment you buy will decrease in value as it gets further out of date. Well TechForward reckon that one person’s used gadget is another person’s treasure and they’re doing something about it. When you purchase your new gadget (MP3 player, notebook, TV, GPS etc) you can sign [...]
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| | 9/03/2008 9:16 PM (304d 2h 54m ago) |
| Intel to Deliver Quad-Core Mobile Processors Next Month |
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Intel announced that it would be releasing its first quad-core processor for laptops next month."We're bringing quad-core to mobile in August," said Sujan Kamran, regional marketing manager for client platforms at Intel in Singapore....
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| | 7/23/2008 1:30 PM (346d 10h 40m ago) |
| Lighter laptops move to flash-based drives |
| | If you want it all, and you want it small, then you're going to have to pay a great deal more than $500. |
| | 7/15/2008 4:47 PM (354d 7h 23m ago) |
| Windows XPiration is at hand |
| | Windows XP, R.I.P. — at least for most buyers of new PCs. On Monday, Microsoft will stop selling copies of the operating system to retailers and computer manufacturers. |
| | 6/26/2008 2:20 PM (373d 9h 50m ago) |
| Memory chip venture says technology beats flash |
| | Is MRAM better than flash memory? That's what a new venture business will try to prove.
Freescale MRAM chip(Credit: Freescale Semiconductor)
Former Motorola chip unit Freescale Semiconductor announced Monday that it has joined with several venture capital firms to form an independent company focused on MRAM (Magnetoresistive Random ... |
| | 6/09/2008 8:24 PM (390d 3h 46m ago) |
| Adobe Reader and Acrobat security updates |
| | Filed under: Software, SecurityDanger, Will Robinson! Adobe is warning that "critical vulnerabilities" have been found in Adobe Reader and Acrobat 8.1.1 and earlier. They are recommending that Acrobat 8 and Adobe Reader users install the 8.1.2 update as soon as possible. Those who are using Acrobat 7 are advised to install the 7.1.0 update quickly as well. A full summary of the security concerns and links to the update files can be yours by visiting the Adobe security update site. Note that while Acrobat & Reader 8.1.2 have been out for some time, the 7.1 update is fresh this week and the security issue is newly disclosed.[via Macintouch]Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 5/09/2008 1:51 PM (421d 10h 19m ago) |
| Why XP over Vista (Isn't your browser your OS?) |
| | I went back to Windows XP and I want to tell you why.
I have a Dell Latitude 600, purchased in late 2004. Perhaps old by typical technology refresh standards, but a good machine that I want to use a little bit longer. Its has 512MB of memory and a 2004-model Centrino processor. It is a dual-boot machine, boots Windows XP and Windows Vista.
About two weeks ago, in a low power situation, my laptop shutdown suddenly. I could no longer boot into Vista. Whoa! Not good. I was about to throw in the Vista DVD-ROM and attempt a fix, but then I remembered that XP was installed. So I booted into XP. I then applied all the missing updates, since I hadn't run XP in perhaps a year or more.
While I had Office 2007 installed on Vista and a few other applications, I realized that 90% of my work (play, whatever) takes place in the browser. So I upgraded IE6 to IE7 and got the latest Firefox installed too (neither browser holds a special place in my heart, in fact, I pretty much feel they are interchangeable).
What did I notice: everything suddenly was very, very fast. Every user action got an immediate response from the browser. I thought my Internet connection suddenly increased to some new data rate, but it had not.
Very simply Vista is a memory and processor hog. And on older (wimpy) machines like mine, it just doesn't perform well (too much processor use, too much virtual memory use). I never liked the performance, but had gotten used to it. When I experienced the shocking difference, I realized just how bad it was.
Now if you go buy a shiny new Dell Latitide 600 series, like the Dell Latitude D630 with a Intel Duo processor running at 2GHz with 1GB of RAM or more, all of that slowness fades away. And for those with a new circa-2007/8 laptop at the mid to high end, this story barely applies.
Dell Latitude ATG D630 Notebook Computer (Core 2 Duo T7300 2.00GHz/80GB/1GB) - Latitude ATG D630
(Latitude Laptop)
Product Compare
compare all Laptop/Notebook... |
| | 4/16/2008 5:17 PM (444d 6h 53m ago) |
| Windows XP fans don't want it to XPire |
| | A petition to “Save Windows XP” has drawn more than 111,000 supporters — and continued shots across the Microsoft XP vs. Vista bow, a battle that began with Vista’s release last year. |
| | 4/16/2008 2:57 PM (444d 9h 13m ago) |
| SSD or not |
| | Several laptops have arrived this year with a SSD (solid state drive) option most notably the new MacBook Air. SSD drives are more expensive… so are they worth it?
First what is a SSD “drive”? SSD is not a “drive” at all, it’s a solid-state memory device that takes the place of a normal hard drive. Essentially a SSD emulates a hard drive.
What are the advantages? Speed and reliability. Since there are no moving parts, SSD drives have no “spin up” time or “seek time” (finding a block on the drive). Also they make no noise. And they are more reliable than a hard drive, better able to endure shock (dropped laptop) and other environmental issues (temperature/altitude).
What are the disadvantages? Price, price, price. Did I say price? A hard drive will run you about $0.50/GB whereas a SSD comes in at $15/GB!! That’s a 30x price difference, call it 1 order of magnitude to be generous. And of course related to price: capacity. SSD are typically lower capacity than their hard drive cousins.
So to SSD or not, that is the question. If you have unlimited dollars to spent, I’d say yes. If you take price off the table, there are few reasons to avoid a SSD. The only one of merit is capacity. Most SSD drive fall below the 80GB mark. But if you are like most laptop users, storage isn’t your problem. Most laptop users in corporate environments (at least) have ample storage options on desktop computers or file servers. That may be different for the individual especially if that individual only has a laptop (which is becoming more of the norm especially with the younger crowd).
The MacBook Air sans SSD (traditional hard drive) will run you $2,099 for the 1.8GHz model. The SSD version will run you $3098 (the SSD MacBook Air only comes in the 1.8Ghz model; the SSD drive is 64GB). That’s $1000 difference and that’s a lot (running right around that $15/GB mark). If you put down half of that ($499) you can buy the 1TB Time Capsule backup product. And there’s a good reason I bring this... |
| | 4/14/2008 4:47 PM (446d 7h 23m ago) |
| JPMorgan: MacBook sales up 0.2%; other PCs down 9% |
| | Without budging from his “neutral” rating on Apple, JP Morgan analyst Mark Moskowitz issued a cautiously optimistic report on the company Thursday based on stronger-than-expected MacBook sales in the quarter that ended in March.Moskowitz is looking for Apple (AAPL) to report that it shipped 2.11 million Macs in the company’s second quarter (up from his earlier estimate of 1.97 million).Computer sales usually fall after the Christmas quarter; instead, he expects Mac sales to rise a hair — 0.2 percent — quarter-to-quarter, which is why he is raising his estimates. Apple’s increased sales come against a backdrop of unit sales falling 9 percent sequentially in the broader PC market, according to Moskowitz.But the analyst sees “soft patches” in the rest of Apple’s businesses. In particular, he has trimmed his quarterly iPhone and iPod sales estimates, respectively, to 1.5 million and 9.68 million (down from 1.62 million and 10.1 million). “Seasonality is having an impact,” he writes. “Also, there could be some slowing in the iPhone ahead of the 3G launch.”The bigger story, he says, is the timing of the 3G iPhone launch: “As long as there is nothing to suggest that a summer launch of the 3G phone is not a possibility, we would expect investors to look past any near-term disappointment in iPhones.”Bottom line: He is raising his second-quarter estimates. Revenue: $6.76 billion. Earnings per share: $1.09. The Street is looking for $6.95 billion and $1.06, respectively.Apple will report its quarterly earnings on April 23. |
| | 4/12/2008 12:21 PM (448d 11h 49m ago) |
2 more news items (102 total); click to see all >  |
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| Windows 7 Release Candidate 1 impressions, insights, and expectations |
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digg_url = 'http://digg.com/microsoft/Windows_7_Release_Candidate_1_impressions_and_expectations'; As you may or may not know, Windows 7 Release Candidate 1 has been officially handed out to MSDN and TechNet subscribers today, and there are plans to unleash the heavily-hyped OS to the waiting public at large come May 5th. We had a chance to sit down with reps from Microsoft to discuss the new iteration of Windows (and the company's current frame of mind) more in-depth, and we've taken the new build for a bit of a spin around the block. Read on for an exploration into a few of the more delicious Windows 7 tidbits, as well as a full complement of our (potentially) enlightening observations.Continue reading Windows 7 Release Candidate 1 impressions, insights, and expectationsFiled under: Desktops, LaptopsWindows 7 Release Candidate 1 impressions, insights, and expectations originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 30 Apr 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 4/30/2009 3:44 PM (65d 8h 26m ago) |
| Minilaptop CPU showdown: Atom vs. Neo vs. Nano |
| |
For a long time, Intel's Atom CPU ruled the minilaptop universe, powering Netbooks from Asus, Dell, HP, Acer, Lenovo, and others. After all, who wouldn't want an inexpensive processor capable of powering an almost-pocket-size laptop? Especially one perfectly suited of handling basic coffee shop chores such as Web surfing, e-mailing, or blogging.
But when you're on top, everyone else wants a piece of your action. Two new potential Atom-killers have launched recently, each looking to steal some market share from Intel with variations on the Netbook theme. The contenders, in brief, are:
Intel Atom
The smallest processor currently made by Intel, the Atom is found in a majority of Netbook-style laptops. The most common versions are the Atom N270 (1.6GHz) and Atom N280 (1.66GHz), and popular Atom-powered systems include the Asus Eee PC 1000HE and Acer Aspire One AOD150.
AMD Athlon Neo
Intended as a step up from Atom-style Netbook processors, AMD's Athlon Neo will be seen in ultrathin laptops such as the new HP Pavilion dv2. That particular system has a 1.6GHz Athlon Neo MV-40 CPU and a 12-inch display.
Via Nano
Chipmaker Via has replaced its older low-power CPU, the C7-M, with the new Nano, specifically designed for Netbooks. The 1.3GHz Nano U2350 was first seen in the Samsung NC20 Netbook.
So, how did laptops with these CPUs fare when pitted against each other? To start with, it's important to note that these are different Netbook-style systems from different vendors, so this is not an exact comparison--many other factors besides the CPU affect performance--but it's similar to the choices you'll face when shopping for a low-cost, low-power laptop.
As one might expect, there's no clear winner. We sampled three laptops, one with each processor, and in this particular grouping, the system with the Intel Atom was fastest in our multitasking test (but none of these single-core systems were particular adept at this task), but the one with the Via Nano was the... |
| | 4/20/2009 9:17 PM (75d 2h 53m ago) |
| Our favorite retail laptops |
| | We've spent the last eight weeks testing and reviewing almost two dozen retail fixed-configuration laptops. Those are the specific models you'll find listed in Sunday newspaper sales circulars and boxed up and ready to go at big brick-and-mortar outlets.
The HP G60-235DX.
In the entry level category, which ... |
| | 3/27/2009 4:05 PM (99d 8h 4m ago) |
| Logitech QuickCam for Notebooks |
| | The Logitech QuickCam for Notebooks is a webcam designed specifically for laptops that features a high quality VGA sensor that is capable of video capture of up to 640x480 pixels and 30 frames per second as well as 1.3 megapixel still images. The webcam also includes a built-in microphone with Logitech's RightSound technology which reduces echoing and background noise for clear conversations. The QuickCam for Notebooks includes an adjustable clip that fits any monitor or laptop and a manually adjustable focus ring. It also features a snapshot button for taking still images and an activity light which indicates when the webcam is live. The webcam comes with bonus photo-editing software and a 2 year limited...
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| | 11/17/2008 12:24 AM (229d 23h 46m ago) |
| Hands on with the Sony Vaio TT ultraportable |
| | Sony's $4,300 Vaio TT is about as far from the standard $500 Netbook as possible.(Credit: CNET)
Sony's newly revamped ultraportable laptop, the Vaio TT, is a well-needed reminder that not every tiny laptop needs to be a low-cost, low-power Netbook-style system.
In fact, the Vaio TT is about as far from the standard $500 Netbook as possible, given the relative physical similarities. The TT's highest-end configuration (named the TT190UBX), includes not only an Intel ULV (ultra-low voltage) processor, but a whopping 4GB of RAM, and even an internal Blu-ray recordable optical drive. The real star power, however, comes from an unprecedented 256GB solid state hard drive, which jacks the price up to an equally imposing $4,300. Naturally, less expensive versions are available, ditching the Blu-ray and giant SSD drive.
The Vaio's 11-inch screen follows the 16:9 aspect ratio trend we've seen in new 16- and 18-inch laptops (including, naturally, Sony's new multimedia laptops). The 1,366x768 resolution isn't too far removed from the 1,024x600 found on most Netbooks, but the extra RAM and Intel Core 2 Duo processor makes a difference, allowing it to run Windows Vista smoothly, instead of XP.
... |
| | 10/01/2008 3:47 PM (276d 8h 23m ago) |
| Sony VAIO Z: The Engadget Review |
| | Filed under: Laptops
Here's the thing: Sony's VAIO Z series of ultraportables doesn't get to be a part of the X300 / Envy 133 / MacBook Air / X360 club. We like it, it's a great laptop, but it's just too chubby to count as a cake cutter. So that said, there's really little point in comparing this thing to that sort of computer -- we'll just have to judge it on its own merits.The VAIO Z is the latest in Sony's long heritage of ultraportable computers, but lands itself decidedly on the beefy end of that spectrum. With discreet NVIDIA 9300M graphics and a Blu-ray drive, this is a full-fledged laptop (we've been testing out the $3,600-ish VGN-Z591U SKU). There's WWAN, SD and Memory Stick card readers, ExpressCard and an HDMI plug, and even the 16:9 13.1-inch screen is on the upper limit of Sony's ultraportable heritage. There's plenty of SSD inside, with dual SSD RAID option that makes no bones about this being a performer.Gallery: Sony VAIO Z: The Engadget ReviewContinue reading Sony VAIO Z: The Engadget ReviewPermalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 9/03/2008 9:27 PM (304d 2h 43m ago) |
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| VAIO P spec bumps coming? |
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According to the folks over at Sony Insider, Sony might have something more than just color changes up its sleeve when it comes to forthcoming variations on the VAIO P. Supposedly, the company has a new series of the diminutive laptop in the pipeline numbered 700 (as opposed to the current 500 line), which SI says looks just like a typical Sony scheme for spec refreshes. Inside the new digits there's a designation for upcoming colors, but the existence of a fresh starting point as well as an additional "Q" in the mix might also mean that there are legitimate hardware changes happening as well. At this point this is just speculation, and it certainly wouldn't surprise anyone if Sony were to bump some of the internals of the netbook... er, ultraportable, but it would likely be a welcome change. For a more detailed analysis, hit the read link.VAIO P spec bumps coming? originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 26 Mar 2009 10:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 3/26/2009 6:20 PM (100d 5h 50m ago) |
| Is this the VAIO P? |
| |
Sony isn't being too coy with the VAIO P, is it? In addition to that teaser image, oh-so-beautiful FCC shot, and mistakenly-posted specs page, CNET's uncovered this pic of the rectangular netbook with its lid open. We can't really tell if the machine pictured has that crazy 8-inch 1600 x 768 display we'd heard about, but there's a lot of the VAIO TT in those lines -- so much so we're wondering if it's a 'shop, albeit a super-hot one. Of course, there's no word on pricing, but we're hoping it's somewhere close to reasonable -- we'll find out in just a couple weeks at CES.Update: We knew it looked a little too much like the TT -- it's a 'shop. Oh well, at least we can dream.Filed under: LaptopsIs this the VAIO P? originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 28 Dec 2008 11:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 12/28/2008 8:46 PM (188d 3h 24m ago) |
| Sony Teases New Centrino 2 Notebook Line for Monday [Rumor] |
| | Sony Style has posted a teaser on its front page promising that the company's going to drop some knowledge on Monday at 9PM. Chances are, it's about Sony's new Centrino 2-based VAIO line, which should offer better performance while consuming less power than its older models. Laptops rumored to be featured include the company's first 16:9-ratio notebooks, including the 13.1-inch VAIO Z and the 16.4-inch VAIO FZ. [Electronista]
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| | 7/13/2008 6:38 PM (356d 5h 32m ago) |
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| Best backup methods |
| | You buy MP3s, take photos, write long love letters to Cloris Leachman, and you keep it all on your hard drive. If that hard drive crashes, you're done for. Unless you backed up. But what's the best way to back up? There are several ways to do this. We're going to discuss three. You can see some of them in action in our video.
loadUniversalPlayer({playerType: 'small',lumiereQueryType: 'id',lumiereQueryValue: '50005296',useCurrentPageUrl: true,relatedVideo: false,preRollAd: true,hideLeftTab:true,wrapperFloat:'right'});
External Hard drive
Network Attached Storage
Online service
Let's start with the external hard drive. Obviously, you don't want to back up to the same hard drive where the original files are. That's just silly.
The simplest method is to buy an external hard drive and back up to that. Our favorite here at CNET is the ClickFree portable backup. It makes the process of backing up as simple as you can imagine. The software is stored on the drive, so you just plug it in and tell it what to back up.
You can also do it yourself. If you have an old hard drive lying around, say from upgrading a notebook, just put it in a case. We show how to do it in this video on upgrading your hard drive.
... Originally posted at CNET TV |
| | 2/24/2009 8:49 PM (130d 3h 20m ago) |
| HD Clone - the universal cloning tool |
| |
HD Clone is a free hard disk cloning program which will let you create and store an image of your disk in case of problems or failure. This sort of tool is uber useful for migrating your data to a new hard disk, or for restoring your stuff if your hard [...]
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| | 11/15/2008 7:26 PM (231d 4h 44m ago) |
| Treesize Free - excellent freeware helps you identify space hogs on your hard drive |
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Treesize Free is one of my favourite freeware programs, because it’s so darn useful. Every so often I pop it open and press scan to take a look at the files and folders that are hogging space on my hard drive. And I never cease to be amazed at the results. [...]
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| | 11/13/2008 9:07 PM (233d 3h 3m ago) |
| Kinetik bags - protect your notebook from the school of hard knocks |
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Computer peripheral company extraordinaire, Logitech, make a range of hard shell backpacks and briefcases for your notebook called Kinetik. Incorporating a padded sleeve inside for your notebook and expandable pockets for all your other goodies, the outside of the bag is a hard plastic shell to beef up protection and [...]
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| | 10/09/2008 4:20 PM (268d 7h 50m ago) |
| HDD Health - keep tabs on your computer’s hard disk health |
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HDD Health is a simple little freeware utility that monitors the health of your hard disk. It tells you the temperature too. Basic yes, but useful most definitely.
HDD Health is a full-featured failure-prediction agent for machines using Windows 95, 98, NT, Me, 2000 and XP. Sitting in the system tray, it [...]
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| | 8/20/2008 5:49 PM (318d 6h 21m ago) |
| Tips & Techniques: How To Sell Your Old Notebook |
| | Sooner or later everyone ends up with an old laptop that they desperately want to get rid of. Your choices are generally limited to giving the old notebook away, throwing it in the trash, or recycling it at a proper facility. Of course, the best option is selling it. Why not make a few extra dollars from that junker laptop? Continue reading this guide to find out how.
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| | 4/16/2008 3:09 PM (444d 9h 1m ago) |
| How To Improve Notebook Battery Life |
| | Anyone with a notebook or tablet PC knows that at the end of the day, battery life is still the key mobility factor when using a notebook on the road. Some users might turn to extended batteries, while others already have one and are looking to squeeze out handful of minutes before they run out of juice somewhere. An area that many notebook users overlook is the software that is running in the background on many notebooks that acts as a leech, sucking away at your power and making your notebook work harder than it should. With a few minutes worth of simple changes, you can easily crank out some more time from your notebook following our guide.Most of this guide will target notebook running Windows Vista, but many of the same tweaks hold true for Windows XP.-Keep your processor working at a walking pace-Tune your radio dial-Change your viewing habits-Don't be tempted by movies-Kill unwanted background activities-Clean up after yourselfsee TablePCReview post for details on each above |
| | 4/14/2008 7:12 PM (446d 4h 58m ago) |
| Tips & Techniques: A Common Sense Approach to Internet Safety |
| | Google and Common Sense Media have teamed up to create this video of common sense tips and rules for families to help keep their children safe online. For these tips and additional information about online safety, check out the Common Sense Media website. Read More... |
| | 3/28/2008 8:35 PM (463d 3h 35m ago) |
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 | Sony - VAIO Warranty | Access SONY Limited Warranty information |
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 | Sony Contact Information | To Contact SONY Call 1-888-476-6972 | Hours: 11:00AM to 8:00PM EST Monday - Saturday |
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 | Sony VAIO Documents | Download your User Guide and Warranty Information |
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