MSI CR41 Multimedia Laptop Review

Multimedia laptops haven't been as en vouge as they once were, mostly because Ultrabooks have been here, there and everywhere, but MSI has a new one, the CR41, which ships with Intel's latest Core i CPU range, USB 3.0, HDMI 1.4, Bluetooth 4.0 and a battery that's good for up to 7.5 hours. The 14-inch multimedia mobile companion, packs a 1,366 x 768 HD display, dedicated HM76 graphics chipset, choice of Intel's third-generation Core i processors and comes in a variety of storage configurations: 500 GB, 640GB or 720GB. Weighing in at 5.3 pounds (2.4kg) and measuring 13.8 x 9.2 x 1.3 inches (349.7 x 234.8 x 32mm), the laptop also features a six-cell 4,400mAh battery and the un-priced notebook has one other feature that could allow it to reel in customers: a nice-looking, royal bronze metal finish on the lid. A discrete graphics card does not appear to be part of the list, but there is no real need for it with the CPU having an integrated solution and for those not up to speed on the technology, Turbo Battery lets owners shut down Bluetooth, wireless devices and other things not in use through the press of a single button.

MSI recently unveiled its multimedia CR41 notebook computer, packing powerful features like Intel's new generation Core i processor, SRS PC Sound, USB3.0, HDMI 1.4, Bluetooth 4.0 and a battery that lasts up to 7.5 hours. It is also ready for the Windows 8 upgrade when it comes out. The 14-inch CR41 tips the scales at just 2kg and the perfect mobile companion when you're enjoying some summer rays, making it Your multimedia companion! Taipei-MSI unveiled its new generation CR41 laptop, with a royal bronze tone finish revealing a metallic luster for a youthfully chic exterior. The color film print technology gives it character and natural refinement that make it stand out from the crowd. The CR41 is the perfect mobile companion when you're enjoying some summer rays. Eric Kuo, associate vice president for global sales, MSI Notebook, points out that not only is the eye-catching CR41 NB ideal for outdoor use, it features a cutting-edge processing platform that employs the most advanced nano production technology, enhancing great processing performance over the previous generation. It is also ready for the Windows 8 upgrade when it comes out. For details, please visit MSI's website. Furthermore, to handle HD multimedia with increasingly higher resolution, the CR41 packs powerful features like SRS PC Sound, USB3.0, HDMI 1.4, Bluetooth 4.0 and ECO technologies give it up to 7.5 hours of battery time per charge, perfect for individuals that don't always have electrical outlets nearby. Actual battery time will vary with differences in computer use and settings. Refined flat metal brush finish: MSI's design team incorporated a royal bronze tone finish revealing a metallic luster used into the exterior of the MSI CR41. In addition, the touchpad's crystal diamond finish and the layered texture of the recessed speakers accentuate the overall look and produce sophistication reminiscent of sports car, make the CR41 stand out from the pack. The forward-tapering silhouette of the CR41 notebook computer is also evocative of sports car. The layering of materials that compose the sides cause the bright layers to blend into the delicate etching of the flat black strata, exuding an artsy yet unpretentious feel. The hotkeys on the CR41 are ingenisously integrated into the metal mesh strip above the keyboard, so while they are still easily accessible, they don't take away from the overall design integrity of this chic machine. The MSI CR41 comes equipped with Intel's latest generation Core i™ processor which supports Intel Turbo Boost 2.0 technology to analyze processor workload and automatically allocate processor resources to throttle up core clocks to enhance computing performance.


This cutting-edge processing platform employs the most advanced nano production technology, currently the most advanced on the planet, enhancing great processing performance over the previous generation, while saving power and optimizing cooling capabilities. The CR41 features the Intel HM76 for display performance so impressive that whether you are watching an HD video, viewing a HTML5 website with rich, interactive media content, the CR41 delivers. Above the keyboard on the CR41, MSI placed special hotkeys that allow you to perform such tasks as ejecting DVDs, shut off the screen, and turn on S-Bar and Turbo Battery with just one touch. When you're going to be away from your computer temporarily, you can quickly cut off power to the screen with a hotkey to further extend battery life. The CR41 laptop not only offers the most powerful hardware available, both its hardware and software were designed with the user in mind. MSI's S-Bar toolbar, located at the top of the screen, consists of shortcuts for major OS programs and hardware as well as MSI's own applications. It allows you to control all system functions, auxiliary programs and applications as well as an array of programs, such as software to save power and boost performance as well as MSI's multimedia software, the webcam, the projector, the wireless, Bluetooth, volume control, screen brightness, and standby mode. Operating multimedia was never easier. Turbo Battery technology lets you control power on an array of hardware, including Bluetooth and wireless devices as well as your webcam, with a single click of the mouse. Now, you can extend battery time by shutting off devices not in use. power saving technology, so with one touch; you can initiate the Turbo Battery to significantly extend battery time. Tests have shown that these laptops can operate for as long as 7.5 hours on battery. MSI's exclusive technology recharges them 1.5 times faster than traditional laptops. About 80 minutes is all you recharge to 80%. Actual battery time will vary with differences in computer use and settings. MSI's CR41 laptops come with new generation SRS PC Sound for natural wrap around, high fidelity sound whether you use the built-in speakers, external ones, or headsets. This machine is designed to satisfy your craving for crisp, clear sound. The CR41 come with USB3.0 which boasts transfer speeds of 4.8Gbps-10 times faster than USB2.0, so a 25Gb HD film transfers in just 70 seconds. It also provides 80% more power for vastly faster charging speeds for external hard drives, flash drives, and other handheld electronic devices. The CR41 come with new generation Bluetooth 4.0 which boasts data transfer speeds of 24Mbps for increased connection speeds and a wider area of connectivity over the previous generation.

Vizio Co-Star Google TV Stream Player Review

The VIZIO Co-Star turns any HDTV into the ultimate smart TV with 1080p and 3D support; Co-Star offers the distinct advantage of connecting to a cable or satellite box and this eature allows viewers to enjoy full screen web browsing with Adobe Flash Player and HTML 5, access to entertainment apps such as the OnLive Game Service, Netflix, YouTube and more  without switching inputs or remotes thanks to the universal touchpad remote with keyboard. Connectivity for the box includes WiFi b/g/n and a single USB port for hard drives or other accessories, you can also stream content from other hardware via DLNA. August 14th is the current estimated shipping date and brings along its remote with QWERTY keyboard on the underside and integrated IR blaster.

VIZIO announced pre-order availability of its highly anticipated stream player , the VIZIO Co-Star with Google TV. Consumers can now visit VIZIO.com to pre-order the Co-Star for $99.99 (US) and take advantage of the limited-time offer of free shipping. The VIZIO Co-Star turns any HDTV into the ultimate smart TV. With 1080p and 3D support; Co-Star offers the distinct advantage of connecting to a cable or satellite box. This feature allows viewers to enjoy full screen web browsing with Adobe Flash Player and HTML 5, access to entertainment apps such as the OnLive Game Service, Netflix, YouTube and more without switching inputs or remotes thanks to the universal touchpad remote with keyboard. The VIZIO Co-Star is the first stream player to offer video games on demand. Through OnLive, users can demo, watch and play hundreds of top-tier video games directly from the "cloud," eliminating the need for an independent game console. In addition, the VIZIO Co-Star offers popular apps such as Amazon Instant Video, YouTube, iHeartRadio and more – all available for download through the Google Play Store. Online pre-order opens on July 24, 2012 at www.vizio.com/costar. The VIZIO Co-Star stream player will be available exclusively on VIZIO.com for $99.99 (US), with an introductory free-shipping offer, while supplies last.

Specs:

• TYPEAudio / video player
 
• VIDEO SERVICESNetflix, Unbox (Amazon),...
 
• AUDIO SERVICESPandora, Other
 
• VIDEO CODEC SUPPORTh.264 / AVC, MPEG-4
 
• AUDIO CODEC SUPPORTAAC, MP3, WMA
• VIDEO OUTPUTSHDMI (1 outputs)
 
• WIFI802.11 b, g, n
 
• ETHERNET10/100 [Fast Ethernet]
 
• DIMENSIONS1.6 x 4.2 x 4.2 in
 
• ANNOUNCEDJanuary 10, 2012

General

• TypeAudio / video player

Supported media

• Audio codec supportAAC, MP3, WMA
• Video playbackYes
• Video codec supporth.264 / AVC, MPEG-4
• Photo viewerYes

Services

• Video servicesNetflix, Unbox (Amazon), YouTube, Other
• Audio servicesPandora, Other
• Photo servicesPicasa

Storage

• USB2.0 (1 ports)

Remote

• Remote (included)Yes

Other features

• Upgradeable firmwareYes

Outputs

• Video outputsHDMI (1 outputs)

Inputs

• Video input supportYes

Networking

• WiFi802.11 b, g, n
• Ethernet10/100 [Fast Ethernet]
• Media protocolsDLNA

Size & weight

• Dimensions1.6 inches (h)
  4.2 inches (w)
  4.2 inches (d)
• Weight.66 pounds

Pricing & availability

• AvailabilityPre-release
• Announced (US)January 10, 2012
• Original price$99.99 USD

Ford C-MAX Energi Plug-In Hybrid C-Max Energi Utility Review

Ford's 2013 C-Max Energi rolls out 95 MPGe, which will be its first plug-in hybrid when it hits showrooms later this year, can run slightly more than 20 miles on electricity alone and the five-passenger C-Max Energi has been certified at the equivalent of 95 m.p.g. in combined city/highway driving. That is more than the 13-mile battery-only range of the Toyota Prius plug-in hybrid and Ford said the C-Max Energi extends its range to 550 miles when the gasoline engine kicks in. Ford would like you to know that that price is $1,300 lower than Toyota Prius V and the C-Max Energi will be ready to hit the streets in a few more months.

Review Highlights:

• Ford's first-ever plug-in hybrid the all-new C-MAX Energi utility is the only vehicle of its kind that customers can drive from Sacramento to San Diego on a tank of gas and make the average commute on electricity alone
• Ford C-MAX Energi plug-in hybrid is projected to deliver 550 miles of total range, including more than 20 miles in electric-only mode – nearly double the electric-only range of the Toyota Prius plug-in hybrid
• C-MAX Energi available this fall is Ford's first production plug-in hybrid and part of Ford's first hybrid-only dedicated line of vehicles
• C-MAX Energi will launch as part of Ford's power of choice strategy to deliver leading fuel economy across its lineup while tripling electrified vehicle production capacity by 2013

The new Ford C-MAX Energi is expected to achieve more than 20 miles of electric-only range nearly double the Toyota Prius plug-in hybrid and a 550-mile overall range to become the first hybrid vehicle ever that can be driven from Sacramento to San Diego on a single tank of gas and make the average American commute without gasoline. With a maximum electric-only speed projected to top that of Prius plug-in, C-MAX Energi drivers might be able to reach wherever they're going a little faster, too. Topping it off, C-MAX Energi delivers fuel economy that is the equivalent of 95 miles per gallon (MPGe) combined city/highway. John Davis, chief nameplate engineer for Ford's compact cars and utility vehicles, said it's all designed to improve the driving experience: from making the 550-mile trek down Highway 99 from Sacramento to San Diego to the daily 20-mile one-way trip to work – the distance some reports suggest the average American commutes. "We are proud C-MAX Energi is the first plug-in hybrid that can deliver a 550-mile overall range and more than 20 miles of electric range as it gives customers great flexibility to commute to work, then take off for a road trip while passing many gas stations along the way," says Davis. "C-MAX Energi is a great symbol for the leading fuel economy we're delivering across our lineup to give customers the power of choice to save money at the pump." C-MAX Energi is part of Ford's first dedicated line of hybrid vehicles in North America and will soon be available for order at Ford's certified electric-vehicle dealerships. C-MAX Energi operates just like a traditional hybrid with two key differences, owners must plug in the vehicle using its charge port and C-MAX Energi has a larger battery pack.

Already available for order is C-MAX Hybrid – expected to be America's most affordable hybrid utility vehicle with a base price of $25,995, including destination and delivery with a cost that is $1,300 lower than Toyota Prius v. C-MAX Hybrid and C-MAX Energi figure prominently in Ford's rollout of five electrified vehicles this year. Ford's other electrified vehicles include:

• Focus Electric: Production began late 2011; America's most fuel-efficient compact with 110 MPGe city; charge time of four hours with the available 240-volt charging station – nearly half the time as Nissan Leaf
• C-MAX Hybrid: Coming this fall; projected 47 mpg city, 3 mpg better than Toyota Prius v
• All-new Fusion Hybrid: Coming this fall; projected 47 mpg expected to beat Toyota Camry Hybrid by 5 mpg highway
• Fusion Energi plug-in hybrid: Will begin production by the end of this year; aiming to be the most fuel-efficient midsize car in the world with more than 100 MPGe

"Ford's electrified vehicles offer a great combination of efficiency, performance, technology and affordability that we believe will help spur adoption of these advanced vehicles," says Kevin Layden, director, Ford Electrification Programs and Engineering. "C-MAX Energi not only offers leading efficiency, it has 50 more horsepower than the Prius plug-in hybrid along with class-exclusive technologies such as our hands-free liftgate and active park assist for easier parallel parking." While the C-MAX Energi nameplate is new to the U.S. market, the technology and design has proven itself already in other ways and in other places. More than 144,000 units of the five-passenger C-MAX gasoline and diesel versions have been sold in Europe since late 2010. Though Ford is concentrating on hybrid versions of C-MAX in the U.S., the designs of C-MAX Energi and C-MAX Hybrid are based on the gasoline- and diesel-powered European version. C-MAX Energi also benefits from 20 years of research and innovation behind the software and hardware technology it offers, incorporating many of the nearly 500 patents Ford holds in the area of hybrid technology. The car's powersplit technology, which allows for more efficient operation of the vehicle consists of more than 200 patents alone. Like C-MAX Hybrid, C-MAX Energi has projected total system horsepower of 188 that stems from the combination of a gasoline engine and a battery-driven electric motor. When powered by gasoline, the C-MAX Energi uses the all-new 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine powerful and fuel efficient and among the most advanced non-turbocharged four-cylinder powertrains Ford has ever offered.

Because owners plug in to charge the advanced lithium-ion battery in C-MAX Energi, the vehicle is able to achieve increased electric mode and total range. Lithium-ion batteries are lighter, more efficient and more powerful than nickel-metal hydride batteries used in first-generation hybrids. They also promote faster charging times. C-MAX Energi sets itself apart from other hybrids in other ways, too. For example, it offers the latest generation of SmartGauge with EcoGuide. Designed to help drivers get the most from C-MAX, information such as instantaneous fuel economy can be displayed on one of two 4.2-inch LCD screens, helping drivers more closely monitor how their driving behavior affects the vehicle's efficiency. In the right cluster, redesigned imagery of green leaves shows overall driving efficiency. The left cluster shows Brake Coach, a feature that helps drivers optimize their use of the regenerative braking system so that driving range can be enhanced through proper braking techniques. Available for C-MAX Energi is the MyFord Mobile smartphone application that allows users to monitor charging, receive alerts, find charge stations, plan trips and do more from their smartphones or computers for an effortless transition to an electrified vehicle lifestyle. C-MAX Energi will be produced at Ford's Wayne, Mich.-based Michigan Assembly Plant alongside the new C-MAX Hybrid, Focus, Focus Electric and Focus ST.

Video:

N-trig Fourth Generation DuoSense Single-Chip Solution With Pen And Multi-Touch Computing Review

N-trig has been producing and selling chipsets called DuoSense for a while now, which allow tablets and other touchscreen devices to support both pen-based input and multi-touch computing. The new 4000 series condenses both pen input and multi-touch finger gestures into a combination of one chip and one sensor, letting any entrepreneurial device maker stuff the two control methods into a handheld device with as little as a 5-inch display and the chip line scales all the way to 15.6-inch panels for creatives poking at the screens of laptops and larger Ultrabooks. The new fourth-generation DuoSense chipset family has now been extended to include single-chip solutions and N-trig claims that it is the first company to offer both pen and multitouch capability on a single chip and a single sensor providing a compact and low-power solution for handheld market. N-trig's new chips also support what’s called a chip-on-flex configuration so the chip can be directly mounted and electronically connected to a flexible circuit eliminating the need for controller.

N-trig, providers of the DuoSense pen and multi-touch user interface announced that the fourth generation DuoSense chipset family has been extended to include single-chip solutions. While competing solutions require either two sensors or multiple chips to support pen and multi-touch, N-trig is the first company to offer both on a single chip and a single sensor, providing device manufacturers with a compact, low-power solution and paving the way for N-trig to enter the handheld market. The newest DuoSense chipset is optimized for a variety of screen sizes, ranging from 5-inch handhelds to 11-inch tablets and offers an Analog-IC that allows for support of up to 15.6-inch portable PCs. The DuoSense single-chip solution is the first single-chip on the market to support both pen and multi-touch input for mobile computing, allowing for easier integration and flexibility in thinner and slimmer computing designs. It also offers the ability to support a chip-on-flex configuration, in which the chip is directly mounted and electronically connected to a flexible circuit, eliminating the need for a controller. "Our innovative single-chip solution allows OEMs to offer industry-leading pen and multi-touch input while meeting market demand for lighter, thinner and smaller devices," said Ronen Heldman, VP Marketing, N-trig. "We especially look forward to introducing our unmatched pen and multi-touch capabilities to the handheld market." Chipset engineering samples are already available for customers, and the DuoSense solution will be integrated in a number of Android and Windows/Windows 8-based tablets scheduled for release later this year.The chipset family includes:

• DS-P4048 - Optimized for handheld solutions with screen sizes of 5"-6"
• DS-P4080 - Optimized for mini-tablets with screen sizes of 6"-8"
• DS-P4096 - Optimized for tablets with screen sizes of 9"-11"
• DS-A4016 - An analog-IC that can be used in conjunction with the DS-P4096 to support Ultrabooks and mobile computing devices with screen sizes of up to 15.6"
• DS-D4000 - A Digital-IC together with multiple DS-A4016, is optimized for meeting the increasing demand for narrow designs in the Ultrabook and mobile computing device markets

DuoSense is a dual-mode interface, powered by a single sensor, that uses pen and projected capacitive multi-touch to create on-screen digital input for mobile computers and other products, for a true Hands-on computing experience. DuoSense supports multiple operating systems, including all Windows platforms (Windows 7, Windows 8 and Windows XP), Android and Linux. The DuoSense digitizer can be implemented across a variety of screen sizes from 5’’-15.6’’ and from a wide range of form factors including tablets, netbooks, convertibles and desktop replacements and supports a variety of target markets, including education, business, gaming, entertainment, and multimedia. The DuoSense digitizer also features palm rejection capabilities and a rapid stylus refresh rate, resulting in enhanced levels of performance and productivity. Supporting a fully customizable industrial design, with sensor options including black print (for example, a company logo), rounded corners, cutouts, cover and strengthened glass, DuoSense is easily integrated into existing technologies, supports any type of LCD, and keeps devices slim, light and bright. The DuoSense solution provides an integrated pen and multi-touch platform that:

• Tracks both pen and multi-touch input on a single digitizer.
• Differentiates between intentional and inadvertent contact, and allows the user to switch easily and seamlessly between pen and multi-touch.
• Is based on capacitive touch technology, bringing an end to the compromises to pen performance and reliability of traditional resistive touch solutions, eliminating accidental drops or skips, and featuring sub-pixel touch accuracy.
• Offers accurate input, with touch and pen accuracy of 0.4mm.
• Offers fast response time and consistent performance for writing, drag-and-drop, scrolling, and selecting - without degrading stylus input.

Giada i53 Book-Sized Mini PC With Powerful Performance Review

Giada has unveiled a new book sized mini PC the packs in an Ivy Bridge CPU and high-performance GPU in a small package and it  has 4 GB of RAM and 500 GB of storage, it will support 1080p video streaming and can run Windows or Linux operating systems. The integrated HD 4000 GPU will handle high-definition video with ease via the HDMI output and ports for the PC include 4x USB 2.0, and a single USB 3.0 jack. The Giada i53 starts at $520 and is designed to be easy to place inside a crowded entertainment system.

Giada, a brand of Shenzhen Jiehe Technology Development Co. Ltd announces the i53 Mini PC. With full HD 1080P video, high connectivity, support, and an attractive design, Giada's new book-sized i53 Mini PC is an ideal choice for home entertainment, web browsing, and document writing. The i53 is based around Intel's Mobile HM76 Express chipset and Ivy Bridge technology platform. Even while offering great performance, this environmentally friendly PC only uses 35W. The Giada i53 comes standard with an Ivy Bridge Core i5 processor and 4GB of RAM which can provide plenty of computing performance for today's applications. The i53 is also available in Ivy Bridge i3 and i7 options. It's an ideal home theater PC (HTPC) thanks to the included infra red remote control that allows for remote boot-up; its support for full HD 1080P video and Intel HD Audio with 5.1 channel surround sound. The i53 comes with a 500GB HDD standard allowing you to store movies and music to be played at your pleasure. This system is compliant with Windows 7, Windows Vista, Windows XP and Linux.

The low power consuming Giada i53 runs cool and quiet, thanks to its advanced heat control technology, including a smart temperature-controlled fan. This Mini PC makes a perfect household download station - leave it downloading all night without being troubled by noise, heat or energy costs. Its slim design lets it fit neatly into even the tiniest space. Tiny in size, the i53 is very big on features, with many connectivity options. There are five USB connectors, including a super fast USB 3.0 socket. The i53 also provides a gigabit network socket, high speed 802.11n WiFi, Bluetooth, as well as HDMI and VGA video outputs. Rounding out the list of features, there's a multi-format memory card reader slot so you can easily transfer your video, photos and music to and from your camera, mobile phone, or media player. The book-sized Giada i53 Mini PC is so small that it could easily fit into the space taken up by a single desktop PC. It weighs less than 1kg: even smaller and more portable than a laptop. This mini PC is easy to carry anywhere and plug in and set up in seconds. The i53 blends unobtrusively into the background, but it's always ready to provide computing power and performance when you need it. The standard model of the i53 coming with an Ivy Bridge Core i5 processor, 4GB of RAM, and 500GB HDD is available for the suggested retail price of $520.

Verizon GameTanium Game Subscription App For Android Devices With Offering Unlimited Game Play Review

Verizon has launched a new subscription-based gaming service for its network, he subscription service comes from digital-entertainment company Exent and the GameTanium lets Verizon customers pay $5.99 per month per device, and access over 100 Android smartphone games, and more than 50 tablet titles. The games included in the GameTanium listing are hand-picked by Exent's editorial board and each title comes with parental ratings and reviews, and Verizon was quick to point out that the fee will safeguard users from annoying ads. The GameTanium apps can be downloaded from Verizon’s own Apps on a wide range of Android devices and the company is offering a free trial for the service which will give you unlimited access for free days, after that, you’ll have to cough up the $5.99 a month to continue using the service and also the subscription is automatically billed to your Verizon monthly statement, but any downloaded apps will still count towards your monthly data limit.

Verizon Wireless is giving mobile gaming a boost today with the launch of Exent's GameTanium, a new mobile game subscription service for Android smartphones and tablets available now, exclusively to Verizon Wireless customers. Powered by Verizon Wireless' network, GameTanium provides unlimited access to more than 100 of the best Android smartphone games and more than 50 tablet games, including hits like Doodle God, Fruit Ninja and World of Goo for the low monthly fee of $5.99 per device. GameTanium takes the guesswork out of finding the best games while offering consumers the convenience of a one-stop gaming destination at a great value. The easy-to-use interface lets customers explore and discover high-quality games picked by Exent's editorial board. Enhanced editorial features such as parental ratings, rich game imagery and reviews immerse customers in the game before downloading. Plus, fast download speeds and no advertisements give customers uninterrupted game play. "GameTanium provides our Android customers with unlimited access to more than 100 games at a great value," said Kristi Crum, executive director of marketing, Verizon Wireless. "Working with Exent has enabled us to immerse customers into the mobile gaming frontier and ultimately bring high-quality gaming options powered by 4G LTE." "We are excited to bring the launch of the GameTanium smartphone and tablet service to Verizon Wireless' customer base," says Zvi Levgoren, founder and chief executive officer, Exent. "The speed and power of Verizon Wireless' network allows for a rich mobile gaming experience for Verizon Wireless customers to enjoy." The GameTanium smartphone and tablet apps can be downloaded from Verizon Apps on more than 30 Android smartphones and two Android tablets, including DROID RAZR by Motorola, DROID INCREDIBLE 4G LTE by HTC and DROID XYBOARD 8.2 by Motorola. Customers are encouraged to try out the service with a free trial, providing unlimited access for three days. After the three-day trial, the service is $5.99 per month and will appear on customers' monthly bill. A Verizon Wireless data plan is required and usage may count towards a customer's data allowance.

Video:

Virgin Galactic LauncherOne Satellite Vehicle Review

LauncherOne is a rocket that is launched from Virgin Galactic's White Knight Two carrier aircraft and the technology that goes into manufacturing satellites has come a long way since the days of Sputnik and Explorer I. LauncherOne is much like the Pegasus system, operated by Orbital Sciences Corporation, which launches a rocket from an aircraft, as was done with NASA’s NuSTAR X-ray observatory and LauncherOne will be attached to the WhiteKnight plane, the mothership for SpaceShipTwo, Virgin’s commercial suborbital passenger ship. LauncherOne could be used for smaller Earth observation and communications satellites and Virgin Galactic has hinted previously that they were working on a rocket to put spacecraft into orbit, but they have been focusing on SpaceShipTwo.

Virgin Galactic, the world's first commercial spaceline, announced "LauncherOne", a new air-launched rocket specifically designed to deliver small satellites into orbit. With substantial funding already raised from Virgin Galactic's partner aabar Investments PJS, and with commercial flights of this new orbital launch vehicle expected to begin by 2016, Virgin Galactic aims to offer frequent and dedicated launches at the world's lowest prices. Virgin Galactic also announced that four private companies have already put down deposits as future LauncherOne customers, expressing their intent to purchase a total of several dozen launches, which would exceed the level of early commitment of any previous new launch vehicle. Virgin Galactic Founder Sir Richard Branson revealed that the company has now accepted deposits for suborbital flights on SpaceShipTwo from 529 future astronauts, a number greater than the total count of people who have been to space throughout human history. This news comes following a flurry of recent test activity and confirmation that all major components of SpaceShipTwo's rocket system have been qualified for powered flight, on track to begin before the year's end. "Virgin Galactic's goal is to revolutionize the way we get to space," Branson said. "I'm immensely proud of what we have already achieved as we draw near to regular suborbital flights on SpaceShipTwo. Now, LauncherOne is bringing the price of satellite launch into the realm of affordability for innovators everywhere, from start-ups and schools to established companies and national space agencies. It will be a critical new tool for the global research community, enabling us all to learn about our home planet more quickly and affordably." LauncherOne will be a two-stage vehicle capable of carrying up to 500 pounds (225 kilograms) to orbit for prices below $10 million. The rocket will be launched from Virgin Galactic's proven WhiteKnightTwo, the uniquely capable aircraft also designed to carry SpaceShipTwo aloft to begin her suborbital missions. Thanks to the extreme flexibility of air launch, Virgin Galactic's customers will enjoy reduced infrastructure costs in addition to the wide range of possible launch locations tailored to individual mission requirements and weather conditions. Branson and other senior executives announced that work has already begun on the vehicle.

"Virgin Galactic continues to innovate space access, and LauncherOne is a key step in its successful commercialization," said Mohamed Badawy Al-Husseiny, CEO of aabar Investments PJS. "This development promises to redefine the small satellite market and to promote new research and education opportunities. aabar is proud to be partnering in this exciting journey by continuing to support Virgin Galactic and its initiatives." Several LauncherOne customers were recognized at the event, representing a broad range of commercial satellite applications. Those named were Skybox Imaging (Skybox), a Silicon Valley-based firm that recently announced it has raised $91 million for a high resolution imaging constellation; GeoOptics Inc., a U.S.-based company developing a constellation of non-imaging remote sensing satellites; Spaceflight, Inc., the aggregator and integrator of small satellites; and Planetary Resources, Inc., the newly-announced, billionaire-backed asteroid mining venture. Speaking at the event, Skybox CEO Tom Ingersoll said, "Skybox's objective is to provide world-class, affordable access to space imagery and information, and in order to do so, we need world-class, affordable access to space. Virgin Galactic is unique in having the right mix of ingredients to support our vision, as well as that of the growing small satellite community. We plan to make full use of LauncherOne." Surrey Satellite Technology and Sierra Nevada Space Systems, announced that they would create optimized satellite designs to match LauncherOne's performance specifications. These optimized designs will allow customers to maximize the capability and minimize the time to market for their satellites. Sir Martin Sweeting, the founder of Surrey Satellite, spoke at the event about the growing potential of the small satellite industry. "Small satellite launch is an area ripe for disruption," said Virgin Galactic CEO George Whitesides. "Miniaturized satellite components and constrained budgets are driving commercial clients, academic users and government agencies all to clamor for an affordable, dedicated launch vehicle. Now, thanks to aabar's investment, our existing capabilities, and the expert team we've already assembled, we're prepared to fill that void by bringing LauncherOne to market."

Video:

Foxconn Fanless Nano MiniPCs Review

After a slight delay Foxconn's range of fanless Nano PCs will be available worldwide this september and the  AT-5600 is still based on AMD’s E450 APU, but the AT-5250 now sports an Atom D2550 at 1.86 Ghz. Both are more expensive than initially announced ($280 and $260 respectively) and the nettops will sport the same I/O, but one image courtesy of FanlessTech hints that DVI might be thrown into the mix despite lacking a mention in the official press release.

The company Foxconn, a leading manufacturer of electronics and computer components announces the release of the quietest nettop line NanoPC. Two new models of AT-5250 and AT-5600 is based on the Intel Atom platform, and AMD Brazos, respectively. New items consume only 15 watts in standby mode and about 24 watts under load, is absolutely silent thanks to passive cooling. Minicomputers in the past have attracted much attention because of the compactness (size of new products - only 190 x 135 x 38 mm), low power consumption and low cost. Foxconn engineers reworked the design nettop to use the new cooling system, and now they got one more advantage - no noise, because inside there is no fan. The choice of memory and hard drive (supports 2.5 "hard drives, and 1,8" / 2,5 "SSD) is still the user, both models come with free slots. To communicate with the outside world, each computer is equipped with two Foxconn Nano-port USB 3.0, four USB 2.0, Gigabit Ethernet port, HDMI and VGA for display graphics, card reader 5-in-1, Wi-Fi adapter, 802.11n, interfaces for headphone, microphone, and linear output. The package includes a standard mounting VESA, through which the nettop can be mounted on the back of the monitor or TV. Inside the Foxconn AT-5600 is a processor AMD Brazos E450 (1,65 GHz) and a graphics chip Radeon HD 6320 - this model is suitable for home media center and keep silence in the room. Foxconn AT-5250 uses an Intel Cedar View D2550 (1,86 GHz) with integrated graphics Intel GMA 3650 - a good choice for server, network hard drive or office computer. Foxconn AT-5600 AT-5250 will be available in the CIS in September with an estimated retail price of AT-5600 will be only $ 280, AT-5250 - $ 260.

Features:

• Atom D2550 / AMD E450
   
• 1 x SO-DIMM socket (DDR3 memory up to 4GB)
   
• 2 x USB 3.0 ports
   
• 4 x USB 2.0 ports
   
• 1 x 2.5" bay
   
• 1 x SD/SDHC/MS/MS Pro/MMC card reader
   
• 1 x Gigabit LAN port
   
• 1 x HDMI
   
• 1 x VGA (looks awfully like a DVI port to us)
   
• 802.11n Wi-Fi
   
• 19 cm x 13.5 cm x 3.8 cm
   
• VESA mountable
   
• 600 g

EA SimCity Social On Facebook Review

Facebook on Thursday opened its doors to SimCity Social, integrating the fan favorite features of the computer game into a city-building simulation for the Farmville-wary and SimCity Social is about playing with friends and watching unique sprawling metropolises come to life in unexpected ways. SimCity Social has no set linear paths to follow and cities grow as a direct result of the choices the players make, players are forced to deal with issues like crime, fire, and pollution. The game also boasts an evolving friend or foe system that allows players to set up rivalries and friendships with neighboring cities and those looking for a change of scenery can purchase the digital deluxe edition with British, French, or German-inspired neighborhoods.

SimCity Social cuts the ribbon on the world's largest social network! Electronic Arts Inc. announced that SimCity Social is now live on Facebook. A close collaboration between many talented people at Maxis and Playfish, SimCity Social takes the hallmark features that SimCity fans have loved over the past two decades and integrates them with advanced social features, bringing the real social city-building simulation to the masses. "SimCity Social will entice a new generation of urban planners with its easy-to-use tools that allow anyone to expand and grow their own unique sprawling metropolises and watch as it comes to life in fun and unexpected ways," said Jami Laes, Vice President of Global Studios for Playfish. "SimCity Social is about playing with your friends. Whether you do that with kindness by helping put out a fire or through mischievous acts like helping a criminal escape, the decisions you make with your friends will determine how the story of your cities plays out." In SimCity Social, there are no set linear paths to follow; cities evolve as a direct result of player-driven choice allowing for more creative freedom. As mayor, players will deal with unforeseen issues like fires, crime and pollution, and will make crucial decisions that will help them discover how their cities take shape. Social interactions in SimCity Social go far beyond just visiting friends' cities or using them as resources to complete tasks.

Players can choose to build friendly relationships with other cities or form an intense rivalry through a dynamic and ever-evolving friend and foe system. With multiple options for city growth, unexpected gameplay events that shape the destiny of the city, and city-to-city relationships, players will see recognizable changes that bring forth aesthetic and gameplay alterations based on the decisions made in the game - for better or for worse. SimCity fans can visit www.facebook.com/simcitysocial to "Like" the game and join the more than 750,000 fans. Players of SimCity Social who Like the game get access to free in-game exclusive content. Following the success of the integration in The Sims Social, Dunkin' Donuts will be integrated into SimCity Social at launch where players can gift Coffee Boosts and Donut Boosts to enable friends to enhance their game play experience. Dunkin' Donuts will continue to launch new features and gifting campaigns in the game throughout the year, including exclusive SimCity Social items available to players who choose to visit and "like" the Dunkin' Donuts Facebook page.

Videos:

Archos 97 Carbon Android 4.0 Elements Slate Review

Archos introduced the first in its new Elements line of Google Android-based consumer tablets, a 9.7-inch device priced at $250 and the 16GB Archos 97 Carbon running Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich sports a 5x multi-touch screen, front-facing and rear-facing camera, expandable storage up to 32GB courtesy of its microSD card slot, and a graphics engine capable of decoding full 1080p HD video and playing it on an HDTV via an HDMI port. The tablet is 0.45 inches thick and weighs 1.36 pounds--a little thicker, but lighter, than the new iPad, which measures 0.37 inches thick and weighs 1.44 pounds and the Archos 97 Carbon is a fairly attractive tablet with a brushed aluminum finish on the back. Other features include a front and back camera, 1GB of RAM, full access to Google Play for Android apps, and the Office Suite Viewer preloaded for opening office docs and the single-core 1GHz processor is a disappointment, considering most new tablets have dual- or quad-core processors.

ARCHOS, an award-winning innovator in consumer electronics, is pleased to introduce the ARCHOS 97 carbon, the first of its new tablet range called "ELEMENTS", an entry-level line up of 7, 8, and 9.7 inch tablets that combine ARCHOS design and engineering with full access to Google Play and a full suite of Google apps at an affordable price. Equipped with the latest mobile technology and an elegant aluminum finish, the ARCHOS 97 Carbon is only 21.8 ounces and 0.45" thick. Its sharp and clear IPS multi-touch screen delivers amazing vivid colors and impressive wide viewing angles. For the smoothest interface experience, ARCHOS has powered this tablet with a fast 1GHz processor, 1GB of RAM while running Android 4.0 "Ice Cream Sandwich". Combining very high performance hardware, intuitive software and affordability, this Google Play supported device will be available starting in July 2012 for $229.99 - $249.99 SRP. "We wanted to introduce a new series that not only combines affordability with a new slim design, but features the best that Google has to offer," says Henri Crohas, ARCHOS Founder and CEO. "With the ELEMENTS series we have done just that. It's the perfect balance of hardware, software optimization and content through the Google Play ecosystem."

Key Features:

• 9.7-inch 5x Multi-Touch Screen with IPS technology
• Optimized for Google Play: Over 600,000 apps and games, the world's largest collection of eBooks, millions of songs, thousands of movies, and a growing selection of TV shows and magazines
• A complete media device, the ARCHOS 97 carbon can decode full 1080p HD video and can send a 1080p HD video to an HDTV via the HDMI-out port
• Stylish design with premium aluminum finish and a 0.45” thickness
• Front and back camera
• Includes 16GB of internal flash memory, expandable both via the microSD slot (supporting SDHC cards up to 32GB) or via a USB flash drive in its full-sized USB host port
• Includes access to Android apps from Google, including Gmail, Google Talk, Google+, Google Maps, YouTube and 5GB of free cloud storage with Google Drive
• Pre-loaded with Office Suite Viewer for reading office documents, a demo of World of Goo–-the critically acclaimed puzzle game, as well as News Republic and Brief Me to manage your world news and customized social media feeds

Specs:

• FORM FACTORTablet
 
• OPERATING SYSTEMAndroid (Ice Cream Sandwich [4.0])
 
• SCREEN SIZE9.7 inches
 
• STORAGE TYPEInternal storage (16 GB, Flash),...
 
• CAMERA (INTEGRATED)2 megapixels
• DIMENSIONS9.41 x 7.24 x 0.45 in
 
• WEIGHT1.37 lb
 
• ANNOUNCEDJuly 5, 2012

General

• TypeHandheld
• Form factorTablet
• Operating systemAndroid (Ice Cream Sandwich [4.0])

Input

• Predictive textYes

Networking

• WiFi (integrated)802.11 b, g, n (2.4 GHz)
• WiFi encryptionWEP, WPA, WPA2

Media

• Media playbackYes
• AudioFLAC, MP3, OGG, WAV, WMA
• VideoAVI, h.264 / AVC, MPEG-4
• ImagesBMP, GIF, JPEG, PNG

Camera

• Camera (integrated)2 megapixels
• Secondary cameraYes

Sync

• Sync PIM dataOTA sync

Display

• Screen size9.7 inches
• Screen resolution1024 x 768
• Pixel density131 PPI
• Screen typeLCD (Active, Color, Backlit)
• TouchscreenCapacitive [finger]

Storage

• Storage typeInternal storage (16 GB, Flash), Memory card
• Memory card supportmicroSD (microSDHC)

Power

• Battery sizeRechargeable
• Battery typeLi-polymer

Audio

• Audio / headset jack3.5mm

Connections

• USB2.0 (Micro-USB port, USB charging)

Hardware

• CPU1 GHz
• RAM1 GB

Size & weight

• Dimensions9.41 inches (h)
  7.24 inches (w)
  0.45 inches (d)
• Weight1.37 pounds

Pricing & availability

• AvailabilityPre-release
• Announced (US)July 5, 2012
• Original price$229 USD

Colors

• Black