Panasonic Advanced Radar Technology For Next-Generation Traffic Safety Systems Review

Panasonic details radar-based technology that can detect collisions in low light, ew millimeter-wave radar technology can detect humans, vehicles and other outdoor objects that are several tens of meters in range and it can also detect objects even in the poorest of visibility conditions, especially during night time, or when there is rain and snow, and even in direct sunlight exposure. Since humans tend to reflect weaker radar signals than cars, Panasonic has designed a new pulse radar code sequence that allows pedestrians to leave a bigger footprint and the comapany claims that it can detect bystanders up to 40 meters (131 feet) away.

Panasonic Corporation announced it has developed an advanced radar technology for next-generation traffic safety systems that enables to detect humans and vehicles in a range of several tens of meters. This millimeter-wave radar technology allows for detecting objects outdoors in poor visibility conditions, such as night, rain and snow, as well as against the sunlight. When applied in traffic surveillance sensors located at intersections, this innovative technology will help increase automotive safety by detecting pedestrians and bicycles hidden in the driver's blind spots. As accidents at intersections account for about a half of all traffic fatalities, preventive measures are required to avoid collisions there involving cars, pedestrians and cyclists. Panasonic's new radar technology enables traffic monitoring sensors at intersections to detect pedestrians and bicycles up to 40 meters ahead even at nighttime and under bad weather conditions that hinder the driver's visibility. By alerting the driver of the presence of pedestrians in the crosswalk or bicycles in blind spots, this technology helps to reduce the driver's burden and traffic accidents. Panasonic's new automotive radar technology has overcome the difficulties with conventional millimeter-wave radar technologies; the advanced radar technology is capable of detecting humans and cars simultaneously in spite of the fact that human body reflects extremely weak radar signals compared with car body. This innovative radar technology has also achieved high detection performance with a range resolution of less than 50cm and an angular resolution of 5 degrees, which enables to detect pedestrians and vehicles. Furthermore, unlike optical and infrared cameras and laser sensors, whose detection performance can be significantly affected by visibility conditions, this new radar technology will not be subject to such conditions as nighttime, rain, snow or dense fog.


With regard to millimeter-wave radars, there presently exist radars for vehicle to measure distance to the vehicle in front. However, these radars cannot detect human body with high resolution due to very weak radar reflection of human body. In addition, an optical camera is commonly used as a traffic surveillance sensor. However, it cannot work well under certain conditions such as nighttime because it can provide almost the same information as the human eye can capture. Panasonic has achieved the new radar technology as part of the "Research and Development Project for Expansion of Radio Spectrum Resources" supported by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications of Japan. The company will demonstrate the technology at VTC (Vehicular Technology Conference) 2012-Spring (May 7 to 9 in Yokohama, Japan), using a test equipment with an experimental radio license. On the new radar technology, Panasonic holds eighteen patents in Japan and six patents overseas including pending applications. Panasonic has developed and incorporated the following new element technologies to realize the new millimeter-wave radar technology for automotive applications:

• Coded pulse modulation technique that employs a newly designed code sequence for pulse radar method to improve sensitivity characteristics, thereby achieving extension of the detection range and finding out small objects that have weak radar reflection.
   
• Adaptive antenna technique that combines radar beamforming transmission and adaptive array antenna reception with signal processing algorism for estimation of target direction, thereby achieving high angle resolution even with a smaller antenna compared with conventional one.

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N-Control Avenger Elite With Classic Look Review

The N-Control announced an additional controller spec's latest version of the Avenger Elite, the manufacturers are strange creatures surprisingly well received by the public and the profession, so it was decided to further refine the concept. The Avenger Elite Operation now requires even less effort and the controllers made accessory that completely transforms the basic structure is enmeshed in the individual keys and access to arms. N-Control Avenger Elite due for release later this month, the PS3 version 48.99 and the Xbox 360-compatible variant immediately and costs $ 49.99.

David Kotkin, the founder of N-Control, the company that manufactures and markets the Avenger Controller, an adapter for the PS3 and Xbox 360 announced the launch of the Avenger Elite. The company's new product is expected to be popular with gamers worldwide. The Avenger Elite is expected to be released at the end of this month. Earlier models of the Avenger Controller were well received by gamers and reviewers for gaming publications. The AE remains fully legal for professional gaming competition, as well giving amateur gamers the chance to up their game. According to Kotkin, "The Avenger Elite adapter may look a lot like previous versions of the Avenger but it represents a major leap forward for what was already a very advanced product. Using extraordinary new alloys and metals made in America specifically for the Elite, the new Avenger also makes use of medical grade nano technology and a new military grade precision hair trigger kit." Media coverage of the Avenger Controller #1 has been uniformly positive. The latest review on the ijustine YouTube video from Spike Network's Game Trailers is representative of the kudos the Avenger has received from reviewers: http://avengercontroller.com/2012/03/17/ijustine-loves-the-avenger-controller/ Kotkin expects the reviews of the AE to be even more positive. The wired arms after being set will not have to be adjusted again. The silicone rubber is more tactile and makes the unit uniquely responsive. "The hair trigger is even more sensitive to the touch than in previous versions. The special military grade black elastic silicone stretch provides simple solution for what had been a complex problem," says Kotkin.

"I call it the perceived exertion effect. Your hands feel five times stronger than they actually are. Very little effort is needed to press the triggers. You can easily adjust the sensitivity of the trigger to your own comfort level. Nothing else comes close to providing speed and accuracy with even the slightest touch. The new trigger is closer to the firing point than ever thought possible," says Kotkin."The AE remaps buttons so they are closer to the shooter's fingers. The new spring against spring action on the triggering device creates a bounce  effect that makes the second trigger pull easer than the first. It's possible for quicker reaction time for the shooter and provides less trigger travel and greater accuracy." According to N-Control, the AE has an easy learning curve. The side levers have been re-shaped on the new models so that ergonomic position is more comfortable N-Control is continually improving the quality of its products. The Avenger Elite is an example of its commitment to upgrade its products for better performance on a regular basis. Ready to work right out of box, the Avenger Elite is perfect for playing shooter platforms like Modern Warfare 3 and Call of Duty, as well as many popular sports-based games. Avenger is legal in MLG competition because there is no electric component to it. The warranty of the controllers is not voided and there is no software change. "We are on GameStop on line store for pre purchase. This is one big step to becoming main stream." says Kotkin. 





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Barclaycard PayTag, The NFC-Enabled Card You Glue To Your Phone Review

Barclaycard has launched a stick-on credit card, which will allow its 12 million customers the chance to make wave-and-pay purchases from their mobile phone or other item of their choice. The PayTag is a quarter of the size of a traditional credit card and will sit unobtrusively on any mobile handset or other item, which hopes the move will trigger the mass take-up of contactless payments that has so far proved elusive. he PayTag is an extension of a customer’s credit card account that can be used to make payments of £15 and under, though the limit will rise to £20 in June and the PayTag will be released to a select group of customers in the coming weeks with mass availability coming later this year.



Barclaycard announced the launch of Barclaycard PayTag, a new way to pay with your mobile telephone. Millions of Barclaycard customers will be offered the chance to make payments with any mobile phone by simply sticking a Barclaycard PayTag to the back of their handset. Available at no cost, and exclusively to Barclaycard Visa cardholders, Barclaycard PayTag is an extension of a customer’s credit card account. At a third of the size of a normal card, it can be discreetly and simply stuck to the back of any mobile phone. Once attached, it can be used to make payments of £15 and under, rising to £20 in June, by simply being held over a contactless payment terminal. David Chan, CEO of Barclaycard Consumer Europe, said: “Today, we are offering the choice of mobile payments to millions of our customers at no additional cost to them. More than half of us say that the item we’re most lost without is our mobile phone, so we’re giving people the option of using them to make easy, convenient, everyday payments without the need to upgrade their current handset.” The announcement comes as Visa predicts that the number of contactless point-of-sale terminals in the UK will rise by 50% to 150,000 this year. Major retailers that offer, or are introducing, contactless include Waitrose, McDonalds, Boots, WH Smith and Tesco. By the end of 2012, London buses will also accept contactless payments, followed by the Tube and the rest of the transport network in the Capital in 2013.



Barclaycard PayTag is safe and secure, and comes with the same 100% fraud protection as any Barclaycard. An exclusive group of customers will be invited to receive their Barclaycard PayTag in the coming weeks, before they are offered to millions of Barclaycard customers later in the year. David Chan, adds: “Barclaycard is developing a wide range of initiatives which will ultimately enable everyone to enjoy the benefits of mobile payments. Barclaycard PayTag is another milestone on our journey to make paying easier, and sits alongside other easy ways to pay with your mobile such as those we offer in partnership with Orange.” Last week Barclaycard and Orange announced that credit or debit card holders from all UK banks would be able to load money onto Barclaycard’s mobile payments application, in the Quick Tap wallet. This will open up the opportunity for contactless payments to more Orange customers. Orange also confirmed that it would be making Quick Tap available on a range of Android smartphones, with the first to be announced in the coming weeks. Research carried out on Barclaycard’s behalf predicts that £3 billion worth of purchases will be made with mobile phones in the UK in 2016. Barclaycard PayTag provides customers with the choice of simple mobile phone payments now, without having to wait to upgrade, and at no additional cost.

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World's First LCD Panels Incorporating Retina-Resolution IGZO Oxide Semiconductors Review

Sharp will encourage the application of its new high-resolution LCD panels to high-definition notebook PCs and LCD monitors, which are both expected to grow in demand—as well as to mobile devices and this announcement further explained that the LCDs in production are the world’s first panels to incorporate IGZO oxide semiconductors. Sharp has converted Kameyama Plant No. 2, which had previously been used to create advanced LCD panels for televisions to produce small to medium-size screens for smartphones and other mobile devices and with an official company statement that Sharp is producing IGZO displays for mobile devices, expect to see plenty of rumors resurfacing that Apple's iPhone, iPad, and perhaps even iMacs and a television set, could all be using Sharp's IGZO displays.



In March 2012 at Kameyama Plant No. 2, Sharp began producing the world's first high-performance LCD panels incorporating IGZO oxide semiconductors. Sharp is expanding production scale through April to meet market demand. Kameyama Plant No. 2 first started operations in August 2006, manufacturing highly advanced LCD panels for TVs. Production systems have subsequently been reorganized to focus on producing small- and medium-sized LCD panels for the world's rapidly growing smartphone and tablet terminal markets. Employing advanced IGZO oxide semiconductors enables Sharp to produce LCDs with smaller thin-film transistors and increased pixel transparency, thus allowing for lower energy consumption. In addition, proprietary UV2A*3 photo-alignment technology employed in Sharp's AQUOS LCD TVs enables these displays to achieve high image quality. Sharp will encourage the application of its new high-resolution LCD panels to high-definition notebook PCs and LCD monitors-which are both expected to grow in demand-as well as to mobile devices. Sharp will also contribute to creating markets for attractive new products. Sample specifications of LCD panels incorporating IGZO :

• For LCD Monitors Display size 32 inches : No. of pixels 3,840 x 2,160 ; Pixel density 140 ppi
• For High-Definition Notebook PCs Display size 10 inches : No. of pixels 2,560 x 1,600 ; Pixel density 300 ppi
• For Tablet Terminals Display size 7 inches : No. of pixels 800 x 1,280 ; Pixel density 217 ppi

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Intel Solid-State Drive 910 Series Review

Intel has officially entered the Enterprise PCIe SSD market with the release of their 910 Series SSD, available in 400 and 800GB capacities, this half-height PCIe 2.0 8x card boasts over 180,000 4k IOPS and 2GB/sec sequential on reads. Writes are roughly half of that - limited by the 25W PCIe spec power available to the card, but since many server motherboards have no issue providing a bit more power (28W), those numbers can be boosted to ~120,000 4k IOPS and 1.5GB/sec via end-user reconfiguration possible through the Intel management software and the 910 is not all-Intel in its construction. Intel SSD 910 is based on 25nm MLC NAND Flash, which is a triple-layer stack of NAND chips that fits into a single PCI-Express slot and communication between the four controllers is handled by the PCI-to-SAS (Serial Attached SATA) bridge chip hiding underneath a heatsink. It offer sequential performance of 2,000MB/s read and 1,000MB/s write and bnoth the 400GB ($1,929) and 800GB ($3,859) models will be available mid-year.



News Highlights:

• PCIe-based 400GB and 800GB Intel SSD 910 Series provides extreme performance, endurance and reliability for rigorous data center demands.
• Intel SSD 910 Series offers easy-to-install, seamless post-deployment server storage upgrade with no changes to existing server design.
• Intel High Endurance Technology, Intel SSD 910 offers 10 full drive writes a day for 5 years for 30x endurance.

Intel Corporation introduced the Intel Solid-State Drive 910 Series (Intel SSD 910 Series), a super high-performing SSD to address rigorous data center storage demands driven by cloud computing, virtualization and online transactions. The Intel SSD 910 Series delivers accelerated storage performance, endurance and reliability critical to today’s data center performance applications. It includes Intel High Endurance Technology and optimized multi-level cell (MLC) 25-nanometer NAND flash memory, that allows up to 10 full drive writes a day for 5 years, or a 30x endurance improvement over its standard MLC-based flash products, for a cost-effective storage solution. The Intel SSD 910 is PCIe-based and offers an easy-to-install, seamless post-deployment server storage upgrade that requires no changes to existing server design. It can be used in storage tiering and caching of hot files for high-performance processing and access to mission-critical data. One Intel 910 SSD can replace multiple 15K rpm hard disk drives (HDDs) to not only save on space and power consumption, but also improve sequential performance and storage scalability and reduce latencies. It is built using an Intel controller and Intel SSD management firmware. The firmware is optimized for less wear and includes NAND error reduction and system error management.

“The Intel SSD 910 Series is a complete solution that delivers on all fronts: high performance, endurance and reliability, making it ideal for replacing I/O-intensive HDDs,” said Roger Peene, director of data center SSD marketing for the Intel Non-Volatile Memory Solutions Group. “As a leader in SSD technology, data center IT professionals can have confidence in a tier-one, easy-to-install SSD solution backed by Intel quality, reliability and technical support.” “Supermicro works closely with leading technology companies so we can offer our customers Data Center Optimized (DCO) server solutions with the highest performance and highest efficiency,” said Tau Leng, general manager of High Performance Computing at Super Micro Computer Inc. “With the Intel SSD 910, server systems can achieve higher levels of CPU utilization to take advantage of increased processing power from advanced products like the Intel Xeon Processor E5-2600 Series. This is yet another example of working with Intel to test and qualify products, so we can lower our customers’ total cost of ownership and reduce their time-to-market.” The Intel SSD 910 Series expands Intel’s offerings for data center applications with its first entry in the 900 family of its highest-performing, PCIe-based SSDs. The Intel SSD 900 Family joins Intel’s other high-volume SSD solutions for the data center including the Intel 700 SSD Family of SATA-based SSDs with High Endurance Technology and the Intel SSD 300 Family of SATA SSDs for a broad range of server and storage applications. Performance measures of the Intel SSD 910 Series 800GB drive include 2 gigabytes-per-second (GB/s) sustained sequential reads and 1GB/s sequential writes; up to up to 180,000 4K random read Input-Output Operations Per Second (IOPS) and 75,000 4K random write IOPS. It comes in 400GB and 800GB capacities. Samples are now available for data center customers to begin quality and validation cycles. General production availability is scheduled for mid-2012. Pricing for the Intel SSD 910 Series is $1,929 for the 400GB capacity and $3,859 for 800GB. It comes with a 5-year limited warranty.

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Windows 8 On Apple iPad Via Win8 Metro Testbed Powered By Splashtop Review

Windows 8 is still months away, but there’s a significant challenge that Microsoft faces when it comes to attracting developers of popular tablet apps to its platform and besides convincing the makers of iOS or Android tablet apps that it’s worth the investment of their time to turn them into Metro apps for Windows 8 tablets. Remote desktop software maker Splashtop is opening up its new iOS app, the rather clunkily named Win8 Metro Testbed, which will allow app developers to test their apps before the official launch in a Windows 8 environment on an iPad and on the target Windows 8 system, you download and install the small (15.7 MB) streamer file, making the connection requires that you set up an alphanumeric passcode of at least 8 characters and after you tap the computer name on the iPad and enter the passcode, you can get to work. Splashtop’s Win8Metro Testbed isn’t cheap by App Store standards: The regular price is $49.99, though it will be discounted for a limited time at $24.99, but it’s certainly more affordable than a new piece of hardware.



Splashtop Inc., the worldwide leader in cross-device computing released "Win8 Metro Testbed – powered by Splashtop," a remote desktop app that allows software developers and technology enthusiasts to simulate a Windows 8 environment on an iPad. By using Win8 Metro Testbed, developers can test native Metro UI touch gestures on an iPad as they code and compile new apps on their Windows PC. On March 1, 2012, Microsoft tweeted that its Consumer Preview of Windows 8 was downloaded one million times in just 24 hours, and since then millions more have been downloaded. Now with the "Win8 Metro Testbed – powered by Splashtop," a Windows 8 app developer who has an iPad can avoid incurring the extra cost of a Windows tablet, which can run upwards of $1,000. "Since Apple's App Store generates over 80% of all tablet app revenue, nearly every software developer that writes apps for tablets has an iPad," noted Mark Lee, Splashtop CEO and co-founder. "With Windows 8 Metro expected to ship on over 400 million new PCs and tablets annually, these developers have high expectations for an enormous new market. Splashtop lets them turn their iPad into a development testbed to evaluate touch gestures and functionality of their app in a Windows 8 environment." Win8 Metro Testbed can be downloaded for a special launch promotion price of $24.99 USD (regular price of $49.99 USD) from the iTunes App Store at http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/win8-metro-testbed-powered/id514878988?ls=1&mt=8

The Win8 Metro Testbed enables native Windows 8 Metro touch gestures, including the ability to:

• Swipe from the right to view the Charms menu
• Swipe from the left to switch apps
• Swipe left/right in Internet Explorer to move between pages
• Swipe down to bring up additional menus
• Swipe down on an item to select it
• Pull down from the top to close an app
• Swipe slowly from the left to run two apps side-by-side ("snapping")
• Swipe from left-and-back to show running apps
• Pinch to navigate files, folders, apps and data with Semantic Zoom and more!

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Acer C120 Ultraportable LED Palm-sized USB-Powered Pico Projector Review

Acer intros USB-powered Pico Projector that fits in the palm of your hand, which equipped with a USB 3.0 port, Acer’s C120 projector can be powered directly by a connected PC and users can enjoy a 100-lumen image when using an AC power cord or an approved Acer notebook PC adapter. The device projects images at a native resolution of 854×480 and a maximum resolution of 1280×800, so it’s not the best choice for those looking for a HD projector and the LED lamp is rated for 20,000 hours and can fire up right away to avoid that awkward pause while you wait for the projector to ramp up, the C120 sells for $259.



Acer America debuts the new Acer C120 ultraportable pico projector that can be powered by a PC via USB connection. It's ideal for business people, instructors and anyone who needs an incredibly portable projector to display clear, crisp images. The ultra-lightweight Acer C120 pico projector is the perfect solution for road warriors who need to be able to present at a moment's notice. The projector features an LED lamp, so it turns on instantly and is quickly ready to show vibrant images. Presentations can be enjoyed natively in the 16:9 aspect ratio at WVGA resolution (854x480) or at the maximum resolution WXGA (1280x800) in a 16:10 aspect ratio. Plus, USB 3.0 connectivity increases data transfer speeds up to 10 times faster than traditional USB 2.0 for enhanced image brightness and quality. Customers have the additional flexibility of powering the Acer C120 projector directly from their notebook's USB port, so they can leave their power cord at home. This convenient USB 3.0 option allows for faster display of the images at a bright 75 ANSI lumens. Alternatively, when higher brightness matters most, customers can power the projector with the included AC adapter or any Acer notebook PC adapter to enjoy presentations in an even brighter 100 ANSI lumens rating. The new projector is also plug-and-play compatible with notebook PCs, so no drivers need to be installed. "We've designed the Acer C120 projector to be a powerful tool for businesspeople, consultants, real estate agents and anyone who needs an ultra-portable projector that will make their presentations even more effective," said Chris White, senior director of product marketing, Acer America. "It's very convenient to use and provides a range of usage scenarios, making it the ideal companion for anyone that gives presentations on the go."



The Acer C120 has a high 1000:1 contrast ratio that results in crisp presentations and photos. The projector also ensures image quality and accuracy with improved color saturation (60 to 120 percent NTSC) and Acer ColorSafe technology. Color integrity is protected even after prolonged use of the projector. Travel-Ready at Under a Half-Pound, Excellent Value The C120 projector is ready to go nearly anywhere. It fits in the palm of a hand and weighs only 6.34 ounces. It is incredibly compact, so it can fit in a purse or briefcase; it measures 4.72-inches (W) by 3.23-inches (D) by 1.0-inch (H). In addition, long battery life will ensure the Acer C120 will keep projecting bright images through the very last slide. The Acer C120 LED projector is an excellent investment thanks to its many features and extended lifespan, which translate into significant cost savings for customers. Maintenance is reduced for the product since there is no lamp to replace. Plus, the long 20,000-hour LED life ensures long-term dependable projector use. The Acer C120 has a wide projection throw range, it can project clearly from as close as 15.75 inches and as far as 12.14 feet away. The Acer C120 projector is available now for customers in the United States for a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $259. The new Acer C120 projector is backed with a one year warranty.

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HTC EVO 4G LTE, Sprint's First HD Voice Capable Device Review

HTC EVO 4G LTE, Exclusively from Sprint, First HD Voice-capable Smartphone Available in the U.S.; Offers Best-in-Class Features, including Beats Audio, Amazing Camera and HD Display, next-generation EVO offers the ability to enjoy industry-leading features without fear of overage charges or throttling with unlimited data plans for new and existing Sprint customers. The first thing you'll notice about the HTC Evo 4G LTE (hereafter referred to as just the HTC Evo 4G, for simplicity's sake) is that it's rather large in size and it has a 4.7-inch super LCD (720p) display, but the phone feels light and is comfortable to hold. Navigating through Sense 4.0 on the HTC Evo 4G and in and out of apps was fast and fluid, thanks to the 1.5GHz, dual-core Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 processor and the standout feature by far on the HTC Evo 4G is the 8-megapixel camera, which uses the same HTC ImageSense software and ImageChip as the company's One line of phones. The only other qualms you might have about the Evo 4G is the top glossy back cover, which doesn't really fit in aesthetically with the rest of the smartphone's look and the Evo 4G LTE will be available for pre-order starting May 7 and will cost $200 with a new two-year contract from Sprint.



Sprint, the only national wireless carrier offering truly unlimited data for all phones while on the Sprint network and HTC, a global designer of smartphones announce the next evolution of the award-winning HTC EVO family: HTC EVO 4G LTE. HTC EVO 4G LTE focuses on exceptional improvements in camera technology, audio and voice quality on both the network and device. HTC EVO 4G LTE will be available in the second quarter for $199.99 (excludes taxes and surcharges). The availability date will be announced later. Customers can sign up for updates at www.sprint.com/evo4glte, and pre-order will begin Monday, May 7, at www.sprint.com. HTC EVO 4G LTE is built on Android 4.0, Ice Cream Sandwich, integrated with HTC Sense 4. HTC EVO 4G LTE boasts brilliant features, including a vibrant 4.7-inch HD display, HD voice capabilities, 1.5GHz dual-core processor, large 2000mAh embedded battery and dual-cameras (8-megapixel rear-facing and 1.3-megapixel front-facing) with instant capture capability. HTC EVO 4G LTE brings back the fan-favorite kickstand built into the smartphone's refined, slim design. With the launch of HTC EVO 4G LTE, Sprint becomes the first U.S. carrier to announce plans for a nationwide HD Voice network beginning in late 2012 as part of Sprint's Network Vision program. HD Voice is the next-generation evolution of voice quality and the future of voice communications for mobile phones. The service will provide fuller, more natural-sounding and less fatiguing voice quality and should reduce troublesome background noises often found in a cafe or on the street.2 Users should expect to identify voices and hear every word better than ever. Sprint's commitment to HD Voice starts with HTC EVO 4G LTE, Sprint's first HD Voice capable device. "Sprint has a long history of leading the wireless industry in innovation, and the debut of HTC EVO 4G LTE marks another chapter in that innovation story," said Sprint CEO Dan Hesse. "Once again, we are partnering with HTC to deliver the benchmark Android device for the year with the next generation of our award-winning EVO brand. We know our customers will appreciate the focus on audio and voice quality with EVO 4G LTE, including the addition of Beats Audio and HD Voice capability."





HTC EVO 4G LTE is Sprint's first device with HTC's Authentic Sound experience integrating Beats Audio. The technology enables customers to hear music the way the artist intended with unique audio tuning that delivers thundering bass, soaring midrange and crisp highs. HTC EVO 4G LTE incorporates Beats Audio across the entire phone experience, including playing music stored on the device, streaming from a favorite service, watching a movie or YouTube video, or playing the latest hot game. HTC Sync Manager software also lets users easily get their music on the device from their PC and it works with current programs, including iTunes. "The partnership between HTC and Sprint has resulted in one of the most popular and successful smartphone brands of all time with over 7 million EVO devices sold to date," said Jason Mackenzie, president, HTC Corporation. "With HTC EVO 4G LTE, we've created a desirable successor that is sure to excite the millions of current EVO customers and beyond with HTC's distinct design, amazing camera and authentic sound." In addition, HTC ImageSense technology combines hardware and software advancements to the camera lens, sensor and software, including integration of a new custom HTC ImageChip, to take great photos even in adverse conditions. The best-in-class f/2.0 camera lens lets in 44 percent more light than the lenses used on most camera phones. The Smart Flash also adjusts the flash strength based on how far away the object is, so users won't get photos where everything looks washed out. Crafted from aluminum spaceframe in an anodized black finish, HTC EVO 4G LTE delivers cutting-edge function and style in a thin and distinctive design. The smartphone's 4.7-inch display and 80-degree viewing angle makes it easier to share pictures and video with others. The multiposition kickstand allows users to watch videos hands-free. HTC EVO 4G LTE customers can enjoy an unlimited data experience with Sprint Everything Data plans. Sprint's Everything Data plan with Any Mobile, AnytimeSM includes unlimited Web, texting and calling to and from any mobile in America while on the Sprint Network, starting at just $79.99 per month for smartphones3 – a savings of $40 per month vs. Verizon's comparable plan with unlimited talk, text and 2GB Web, or $10 per month savings vs. Verizon's 450-minute plan with unlimited text and 2GB Web. Advancing smartphone photography :

• HTC EVO 4G LTE makes mobile photography and video easy and intuitive.
• The on-screen photo and video buttons are right next to each other so users don't have to switch modes. This allows the user to take video and still photos concurrently.
• It makes the whole idea of "video mode" or "photo mode" irrelevant. While shooting a video, the user can just tap the shutter button and it captures a still image of that exact moment. Still images can also be captured during video playback.
• HTC EVO 4G LTE's camera has a super-fast start-up and auto-focus time. With the fast auto-focus, users can easily stay with a moving object or person, taking numerous pictures just by holding the shutter button.

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Samsung Galaxy S Aviator 4G LTE Smartphone For US Cellular Review

Meet U.S. Cellular's first 4G LTE phone, Samsung Galaxy S Aviator, featuring a moderate helping of midrange components, the Samsung Galaxy S Aviator runs Android 2.3 Gingerbread pushed along by a single-core 1GHz Samsung Hummingbird CPU. A 4.3-inch Super AMOLED screen and 1.3-megapixel camera sit on the phone's front face; an 8-megapixel shooter with LED flash are on back. The bulk of you will be asked to pony up $199.99 on a two-year contract and after a $100 mail-in rebate, but select LTE cities will be selling it for $100 less; as for LTE service. It is actually the second US Cellular 4G LTE capable device along with the Galaxy Tab 10.1 and USCC is planning to reach over 54 percent of their customers by the end 2012.



U.S. Cellular and Samsung Telecommunications America (Samsung Mobile), the No. 1 mobile phone provider in the U.S. have announced that the Samsung Galaxy S Aviator is available today, both in stores and online at uscellular.com. The Android-powered smartphone runs on the 4G LTE network, with speeds up to 10 times faster than 3G, and is the first 4G LTE smartphone in the carrier's device line-up. The Galaxy S Aviator will be available for $199.99 after a $100 mail-in rebate. For a limited time, the smartphone will be available for $99.99 after a $100 mail-in rebate in select markets covered by the 4G LTE network. Visit uscellular.com for detailed pricing. Powered by Android 2.3.6 (Gingerbread), the Galaxy S Aviator has a 4.3-inch Super AMOLED Plus touchscreen and front-facing camera for easy video chatting. This sleek and slim smartphone allows you to connect quickly to entertainment and the Internet on-the-go. Users also have access to Google Play, formerly known as the Android™ Market, a one-stop shop for Android users to access nearly half a million apps, millions of songs and books, and thousands of movies. "We are excited to bring our customers our first 4G LTE smartphone to help them get more done in less time," said Edward Perez, vice president of sales and marketing operations for U.S. Cellular. "The faster downloading and browse and talk function make it the go-to device for customers who depend on their smartphone to keep up with their busy schedules."


The 4G LTE network builds on the 3G data services that U.S. Cellular customers already enjoy on the carrier's high-quality nationwide network. The Galaxy S Aviator will be available to all U.S. Cellular customers and will run on the 4G LTE network in markets where it is available and on U.S. Cellular's nationwide 3G network in all other areas. U.S. Cellular customers enjoy unique benefits, such as new devices faster without resigning contracts, free Overage Protection and free Battery Swap. U.S. Cellular also offers customers the only points-based rewards program in the industry, which rewards customers for simple things, such as paying bills on-time, adding a line or referring friends and family. Points may be used for faster phone upgrades, additional lines, devices, accessories and ringtones. It's one of the reasons U.S. Cellular has the happiest customers in wireless. U.S. Cellular, in partnership with King Street Wireless, currently offers 4G LTE service in select cities in Iowa, Maine, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Texas and Wisconsin. In the second half of this year, 4G LTE coverage will expand to cover select cities in Illinois, Maryland, Missouri, New Hampshire, Oregon, Tennessee, Vermont, Virginia, Washington and West Virginia. By the end of 2012, 54 percent of U.S. Cellular customers will enjoy faster 4G LTE speeds. For more information about the 4G LTE experience, visit uscellular.com/4G.

The Galaxy S Aviator will be available for $199.99 after a $100 mail-in rebate. For a limited time, the smartphone will be available for $99.99 after a $100 mail-in rebate in select markets covered by the 4G LTE network. Visit uscellular.com for detailed pricing. Purchase of a data plan is required and a new two-year agreement and activation fee may apply for new customers. Additional terms, conditions and/or charges may apply. Features:

• 4.3-inch Super AMOLED Plus display
• Android 2.3.6
• 1GHz Hummingbird processor
• 8-megapixel rear camera
• 1.3-megapixel front camera
• 1.4GB of internal memory

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Panasonic Lumix GF5 Ultra Compact Digital Interchangeable Lens System Camera, Overhauls Touch Interface With Swappable-Lens Review

Panasonic Lumix GF5 looks identical to its predecessor, offers similar specs for $100 more, an interchangeable-lens camera built for casual users, the mirrorless Lumix GF5 will have a dramatically redesigned touchscreen interface. With the Lumix GF5, Panasonic reaffirms its commitment to a small, consumer-focused compact system camera with limited controls and a touchscreen interface. After the introduction of last year's GF3, there was quite a bit of foment among enthusiasts who thought it was too small, and too consumer-focused and this resulted in a quick about-face, as Panasonic seemed to hastily prepare the GX1 from the 2009 blueprints of the GF1, with only a few minor tweaks to set it apart. The same might be said of the Panasonic GF5, as major new features are few. The GF5 is clearly designed with beginners in mind, more advanced photogs should consider the GX1, but with a $599 sticker price (with 14-42mm lens), it's sure to be a hit.




Panasonic announced a new digital interchangeable lens system camera, the LUMIX DMC-GF5, which joins Panasonic's award-winning LUMIX G Series of digital cameras, which are acclaimed for their high image quality with small and compact body and lenses. The LUMIX GF5 features a newly developed 12.1-megapixel Live MOS sensor and redesigned Venus Engine, helping to ensure true-to-life images through exceptional resolution, image rendering and color reproduction. Even in low-light situations and at a maximum 12800 high ISO sensitivity, the LUMIX GF5 produces stunning photos and videos. The noise reduction system includes a combination 3DNR (3D Noise Reduction) and MNR (Multi-process Noise Reduction) allowing for both bright areas and dark areas to be faithfully reproduced with minimal noise in high sensitivity image recording. Sporting a sophisticated and stylish design, the LUMIX GF5 features a compact, lightweight body with built-in flash. A rubberized grip makes it easier for users to comfortably hold the camera in one hand. Complying with Micro Four Thirds standard, a wide range of interchangeable lenses is offered to expand photographic experience even more broadly at higher level of photo quality. "Panasonic expects the LUMIX GF5 to please photo enthusiasts and budding photographers that are looking for the next step from the traditional point-and-shoot camera," said Christopher Rice, Senior Product Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Marketing Company of North America. "The camera's host of shooting options makes photography even more artistic, yet easy for users of any experience level. The powerful Venus Engine and sensor allows the camera to achieve exceptional photo quality in a range of shooting environments."





The LUMIX GF5, like all cameras in the LUMIX G Series, adopts Contrast AF (Auto Focus), so focusing is controlled by the image sensor. Compared with the Phase difference system AF, Contrast AF boasts higher accuracy, especially when shooting with a bright lens with small F value. To further advance the Contrast AF, the GF5 incorporates full-area focusing, making it possible to set focus on any point in the field of view. Featuring an ultra high-speed Light Speed AF, the LUMIX GF5 can focus in approximately 0.09 seconds making it possible to capture even fast moving subjects clearly. Combined with Touch AF control and high-speed burst shooting at four frames per second in full resolution, it has never been easier to capture fast-moving objects clearly. Additionally, Pinpoint AF allows for even more precise focus by further enlarging the focus area, assisting, for example, to set focus directly on the pupil of an eye. The LUMIX GF5's large, 3.0-inch 920,000-dot high-precision touch display and Graphic User Interface (GUI) provide users with ease of use and simple operation. The touch-control system immediately allows users to set focus on a subject just by touching the screen and users can even release the shutter to snap a photo directly from the touch screen. Once a user locks onto a subject by a touch, the camera will track the subject with the AF tracking function, even if the subject moves. Touch Zoom is also available when the LUMIX Power Zoom Lens H-PS14042 lens or H-PS45175 is mounted. Creative Control Mode has been upgraded from the LUMIX DMC-GF3 by increasing filter options available on the LUMIX GF5 from six options to 14, adding Soft Focus*2, Dynamic Monochrome, Impressive Art, One Point Color, Cross Process and Star Filter, in addition to the conventional Expressive, Retro, High Key, Sepia, Hi Dynamic, Miniature Effect and recently introduced Low Key and Toy Effect modes. With the new GUI menu tab, switching filter effects is seamless. A preview of filter effects can be seen on the large LCD screen via Live View mode and the camera intuitively recommends filters depending on the scene that the camera detects in iA (Intelligent Auto) or iA Plus mode.




For beginner users of interchangeable lens system cameras, the GF5 features a new Scene Guide offering 23 sample pictures shot by professional photographers. Users can choose the photo closest to the situation that they are shooting and optimal parameters for shooting the scene will be set automatically. Additionally, procedures, technical advice and recommended interchangeable lens options for the scene can be shown to allow users to better understand and learn photography. In addition to shooting still photography, the LUMIX GF5 can also record 1920x1080 60i* full-High Definition videos in AVCHD format which excels in both compression efficiency and compatibility with AV equipment for playback. In addition to practical full-time AF, the Touch AF in video recording also lets the user enjoy professional-like selective focusing which allows the focus to be changed while shooting video. The LUMIX GF5 features a dedicated video record button on the top of the body so users can instantly start recording videos while shooting photos without having to make setting adjustments. Along with full-HD video capabilities, the LUMIX GF5 also features high-quality sound, recorded with Dolby Digital Stereo Creator. Videos can be recorded in MP4 format for playback on a PC or other portable electronic devices without having to convert the files. Additional features of the LUMIX GF5 include:

• iA mode to automatically activate a range of technologies to enhance photos without adjusting settings every time conditions change, including AF Tracking, Intelligent D-range Control, Intelligent Scene Selector, Face Recognition and Intelligent ISO Control.
• iA Plus mode allows users to adjust defocusing area in the background, exposure compensation and white balance for more flexible control.
• A dedicated sensor that automatically determines shooting angle, making it possible to tell whether a photo was taken horizontally or vertically no matter what lens was used.
• The GUI interface allows users to choose an image and set it as wallpaper for the menu screen.

The LUMIX DMC-GF5 will be available in black, white and red later this year in the following kit options: Body with 14-42mm standard zoom lens will have a suggested retail price (SRP) of $599; body with 14-42mm power zoom lens will have an SRP of $749. The competitive market in the GF5's class:

	Nikon 1 J1	Olympus PEN E-PM1	Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3	Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF5	Pentax Q	Sony Alpha NEX-C3
Sensor (effective resolution)	10-megapixel CMOS	12.3- megapixel Live MOS	12.1- megapixel Live MOS	12.1- megapixel Live MOS	12.4- megapixel BSI CMOS	16.2- megapixel Exmor HD CMOS
	13.2mm x 8.8mm	17.3mm x 13mm	17.3mm x 13mm	17.3mm x 13mm	1/2.3-inch	23.5mm x 15.6mm
Focal-length multiplier	2.7x	2.0x	2.0x	2.0x	5.5x	1.5x
Sensitivity range	ISO 100 - ISO 3200 / 6400 (expanded)	ISO 200 - ISO 12800	ISO 100 - ISO 6400	ISO 100 - ISO 6400 / 12800 (expanded)	ISO 125 - ISO 6400	ISO 200 - ISO 12800
Continuous shooting	5fps n/a (60fps with fixed AF and electronic shutter)	4.1fps n/a (5.5fps without image stabilization)	3.8fps unlimited JPEG/7 raw	4fps unlimited JPEG/4 raw	5fps 5 JPEG/n/a (1.5fps raw)	2.5fps 18 JPEG/ 6 raw (5.5fps with fixed exposure)
Viewfinder magnification/ effective magnification	None	None	None	None	Optional optical for prime lens	None
Autofocus	73-point phase detection, 135-area contrast AF	35-area contrast AF	23-area contrast AF	23-area contrast AF	25-point contrast AF	25-point contrast AF
Shutter speed	30-1/16,000 sec; bulb; 1/60 sec x-sync	60-1/2,000 sec; bulb to 30 minutes	60-1/4,000 sec; 1/160 x-sync	60-1/4,000 sec; 1/160 x-sync	30-1/2,000 sec; bulb; 1/125 sec flash sync	30-1/4,000 sec; bulb; 1/160 flash sync
Metering	n/a	324 area	144 zone	144 zone	n/a	49 zone
Flash	Yes	Included optional	Yes	Yes	Yes	Included optional
Image stabilization	Optical	Sensor shift	Optical	Optical	Sensor shift	Optical
Video	1080/60i/30p, 720/60p H.264 MPEG-4 QuickTime MOV	1080/60i AVCHD @ 20, 17Mbps; 720/60p @ 13Mbps/29 minutes	1080/60i/50i @ 17Mbps 720/60p @17Mbps AVCHD or Motion JPEG QuickTime MOV	1080/60i/50i @ 17Mbps 720/60p @17Mbps AVCHD or MPEG-4 QuickTime MOV	1080/30p H.264 MPEG-4	720/30p H.264 MPEG-4
Audio	Stereo	Stereo	Mono	Stereo	Stereo	Stereo; mic input
LCD size	3-inch fixed 460,000 dots	3-inch fixed 460,000 dots	3-inch fixed touch screen 460,000 dots	3-inch fixed touch screen 920,000 dots	3-inch fixed touch screen 460,000 dots	3-inch tilting 921,600 dots
Battery life (CIPA rating)	230 shots	n/a	320 shots	330 shots	230 shots	400 shots
Dimensions (inches, WHD)	4.2 x 2.4 x 1.2	4.3 x 2.5 x 1.3	4.2 x 2.6 x 1.3	4.2 x 2.6 x 1.5	3.9 x 2.3 x 1.2	4.4 x 2.4 x 0.9
Body operating weight (ounces)	9.7	9.3	9.3	9.3	7.1 (est)	10.7
Mfr. price	n/a	n/a	$499.95 (body only, est)	n/a	n/a	n/a
	$649.95 (with 10-30mm lens)	$499.99 (with 14-42mm f3.5-5.6 lens)	$599.95 (with 14-42mm f3.5-5.6 lens)	$599 (with 14-42mm f3.5-5.6 lens)	$649.95 (with 47mm- equivalent f1.9 lens)	$649.99 (with 18-55mm 3.5-5.6 lens)
	$899.95 (with 10-30mm and 30-110mm lenses)	n/a	$699.95 (with 14mm f2.5 lens)	$749 (with 14-42mm power zoom lens)	n/a	$599.99 (with 16mm f2.8 lens)
Ship date	October 2011	September 2011	July 2011	Q2 2012	November 2011	August 2011

Panasonic GF5 versus Olympus E-PM1

Going up against the small Olympus E-PM1, the Panasonic GF5 is a little taller, but the E-PM1 is wider. The X-Vario lens is noticeably shorter than Olympus's redesigned mechanically retractable lens, both retracted and extended. The E-PM1 achieves a shorter stature, yet includes a full hot shoe and accessory port, while the GF5 supports neither. That's partly due to the wider-aspect LCD screen on the E-PM1.

Panasonic GF5 versus Panasonic G3

Even though the Panasonic G3 is pretty darn small, it's clear why Panasonic still makes the GF5: to really show how small they can make a compact system camera for those who want such a creature. The G3 is larger thanks to its electronic viewfinder hump on top, its full hot shoe, and is most cumbersome because of the rear protrusion for the viewfinder. Enthusiasts will appreciate its greater number of controls, though, including a mode dial, rear control dial, and its articulating screen. A model for everyone.

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