Roland 3D Hobby Milling Machine Review, AnAffordable Production Tool for Craft and Hobby Enthusiasts

With a 3D printer, you can create anything you want by adding multiple layers of material one on top of another and with a 3D mill, you can create anything you want by removing multiple layers of material, one after another. A milling machine is essentially just a fancy, computer-controlled power drill and the drill points down from the ceiling, and it can move in three axes: up and down, side to side, and front to back. The iModela comes with all the cutting tools, software and materials you need to get started, but if you've already been tinkering with ideas, there's also compatibility with other popular CAD software and the Roland iModela iM-01 pictured above is one of the new mini 3D Mill machines which have started to appear, and is priced at around $1000.

Roland DGA Corp. has introduced the iModela hobby milling machine, providing hobbyists with easy and affordable access to 3D milling technology. "iModela is a completely new concept – a digital hobby mill designed to support a range of unique creative pursuits, from miniatures and model railroading to jewelry design and craft projects," said Brian Brooks, product manager for Roland DGA Corp. "The applications for this innovative technology are endless, and we can't wait to see what our customers will produce with it." With iModela, 3D modelers and hobby enthusiasts can easily and accurately create and embellish a wide range of projects by producing 3D shapes, reliefs, textures and patterns from modeling wax, foam, balsa wood and plastic materials. With a milling area of 3.39 inches wide by 2.17 inches in length and 1.02 inches in height, iModela is the perfect tool for small-scale creative projects. Based on 25 years of proven Roland milling technology, iModela is a complete solution with a cutting tool, sample materials and software. To build on this starter kit, Roland offers a variety of optional tools and materials that can be purchased conveniently online. Designed for ease of use, iModela comes equipped with a virtual panel that allows users to operate the machine right from a personal computer. Included with the hobby milling machine is iModela Creator design software, which includes free hand drawing tools for sketching out designs and ideas. Intuitive menus and icons guide the user through the design process. Once designs are completed, they are easy to output on iModela using the included Windows driver. More advanced CAM software is available for download as well at http://icreate.rolanddg.com, allowing users to mill 3D files from other popular CAD applications. To help iModela artists further their creative goals, Roland has established an online iModela community at http://icreate.rolanddg.com. The site serves as a collaborative forum for sharing design ideas, production workflows and technical tips. In addition, users can download free software and sample projects for production on iModela. Priced at $899, iModela can be purchased online at www.rolanddgastore.com, and is available for delivery anywhere throughout North and South America (except Brazil).

Summary:

• Affordable, compact, and easy-to-use platform for exploring creativity
• Precisely mills 3D shapes, patterns and designs out of foam, wax, balsa wood and plastic
• iModela Creator, Roland’s 3D design software, is included, allowing users to mill shapes, holes, textures and patterns right out of the box
• Specially designed spindle motor unit supports a variety of milling tools commonly available at model shops and do-it-yourself (DIY) retailers
• iModela comes fully assembled
• Easy to setup and operate, and is controlled with just a power switch, simple LED display and iModela controller software
• Stores in its own portable carrying case
• iModela online community allows users to share ideas and projects

Features:

The Perfect Addition to Your Hobby or Craft Workshop With iModela, the creative possibilities are endless. iModela features a rotating cutter that precisely mills 3D shapes, patterns and designs in resin materials. With just a power switch, simple LED display and iModela controller software, iModela is easy to setup and operate. A specially designed spindle motor unit supports a variety of milling tools commonly available at model shops and do-it-yourself (DIY) retailers.Its compact design allows iModela to fit right on your desktop and a dedicated carrying case provides for easy storage in between projects.

Boost Your Creativity with iModela Creator Design Software iModela comes complete with its own design software, iModela Creator, allowing you to create and mill shapes, holes, textures and patterns with precision right out of the box. Intuitive menus and icons make design and production easy. With iModela Creator, you can also access drawing tools to sketch out ideas. Then simply load your cutting material into the mill, and iModela does the rest, recreating your design in precise detail. A complete system, iModela and iModela Creator software produce a wide range of items, from charms, pendants and key chains to small figurines and accessories for doll houses and model train sets.

Proven Performance iModela incorporates 25 years of proven Roland milling technology into an easy-to-use device with powerful performance features. MODELA Player 4 CAM software is included, allowing you to produce 3D objects that are downloaded from the Internet, or created in 3D design software.

Join the iModela Community To help iModela artists learn, share and further their creative goals, iModela has its own dedicated website,icreate.rolanddg.com. In addition to complete information on the product, the site discusses design ideas, production workflows and maintenance tips, and also offers free project samples you can download for production on your iModela. Direct links to Facebook and YouTube allow you to share your projects and techniques with other iModela users. The site also features a wide range of optional materials and supplies, which can be purchased conveniently online.

One-Year Warranty Roland milling machines combine unbeatable performance with legendary Roland reliability. As proof, the iModela includes a limited warranty for a period of one year.

Quality Assurance Roland’s international ISO certifications are your assurance of quality products and service. We build reliable, high-performance products and back them up with first-rate customer service and a wide variety of supplies and accessories.

Specifications:

Material that can be cut	Soft material such as resins (conductive materials such as metals and carbons are not supported).
Maximum Milling Area	X, Y, and Z: 3.39 x 2.17 x 1.02 inches (8 x 55 x 26 mm)
Distance from Collet tip to table	Maximum 2.17 inches (55 mm)
Table size	Width x depth: 3.39 x 2.17 inches (86 x 55 mm)
Mountable cutting material weight	0.4 lb (200 g)
X-, Y-, and Z-axis drive system	Stepping motor
Operating speed	X and Y axes: 0.24 to 9.45 inches/min (6 to 240 mm/min)
Software resolution	0.00039 inches/step (0.01 mm/step; RML-1),0.000039 inches/step (0.001 mm/step: NC code)
Mechanical resolution	0.00000732 inches/step (0.000186 mm/step: micro steps)
Spindle motor	iM-01 spindle motor
Interface	USB (compliant with Universal Serial Bus Specification Revision 2.0 Full Speed)
Control command set	RML-1, NC code
Power supply conditions	Dedicated AC adpater	AC 100 to 240 V +/-10%, 50/60 Hz
	Machine	DC 24 V, 0.7 A
Power consumption	Approximately 14 W
Operating noise	During operation: 57dB (A) or less (when not cutting), during standby: 39 dB (A) or less
External dimensions	Width x depth x height: 8.43 x 7.87 x 8.07 inches ( 214 x 200 x 205 mm)
Weight	3.7 lb (1.7 kg)
Installation environment	Operating environment: Temperature of 41 to 95 deg F (5 to 35 deg C), 35 to 80% relative humidity (no condensation) Ambient pollution degree: 2 (as specified by IEC 60664-1)
Included items	Power cord, AC adapter, USB cable, cutting tool (axis diameter: 2.35 mm, Tip of the blade diameter: 1.6 mm), mounting screws (for fixing the cutting tool in place), hexagonal wrench (for fixing the cutting tool in place), spare hooks, replacement spindle motor, blower fan, maintenace grease, cleaning brush, double-sided tape, trial cutting materials, trial scrap plate, flathead screwdriver, Roland Software Package, setting board, and user's manuals
System Requirements
PC	A model preinstalled with the 32-bit or 64-bit version of Windows® XP, Vista, or 7, or a PC preinstalled with Windows XP

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Mushroom Networks ThirdEye Wireless Mobile Video Technology Review

Mushroom Networks ThirdEye makes surveillance mobile, peeping on perps goes wireless and ThirdEye utilizes the company's Broadband Bonding tech to mesh bandwidth across several cellular data cards into one high-speed connection for PTZ cameras (pan-tilt-zoom), letting corporate or government users patrol their perimeters remotely in real-time. The cost of this surveillance freedom won't come cheap for Uncle Sam and friends either with prices starting at $3,190 and unless you're the Howard Hughes homebound-type, you won't be needing this level of protection.

Mushroom Networks Inc., innovators of Broadband Bonding technology announced ThirdEye, a highly portable video surveillance technology that utilizes inexpensive cellular broadband cards to transmit live high-quality video from any location. Designed for security, government, defense, emergency response, and other such applications, ThirdEye seamlessly integrates with leading pan/tilt/zoom (PTZ) cameras delivering the first fully wireless surveillance system that can be placed along borders/roadways, inside vehicles or moved to new locations as often as needed without requiring a wired Internet connection. ThirdEye transmits live video via Broadband Bonding, a method that aggregates the bandwidth of several cellular data cards (from one or a combination of mobile carriers) into a single high-speed connection. Because the system utilizes multiple cards, video transmission is nearly infallible as the remaining cards automatically compensates if a connection is lost. In addition, the low latency nature of Third Eye allows real time control of PTZ cameras for panning, tilting and zooming the camera as needed from any remote location. "Many industries including corporate, broadcasting, transportation and many others have adopted our unique technology for combining multiple broadband links into a single high-speed connection," stated Dr. Cahit Akin, co-founder and CEO of Mushroom Networks. "With ThirdEye, we are now delivering mobile video capabilities to government and security surveillance applications as well as brand-new applications that were not possible before such as a doctor remotely viewing a patient in a moving ambulance, or a police chief remotely viewing and controlling the dash cam of a squad car." Mushroom Networks' ThirdEye employs industry standards RJ45 Ethernet to connect to the IP camera at the mobile location turning any PTZ camera into a suitable device for live video transmission. ThirdEye is completely transparent to existing video surveillance equipments and therefore simply replaces the wired Internet connection at the camera side without requiring any changes to the existing system.

Features:

• High quality video delivery over bonded 3G / 4G wireless cards - ThirdEye uses award winning bonding technology that is optimized for delivering live video from PTZ cameras over aggregated 3G / 4G wireless data cards to the command and control center location. This bonding technology provides support for higher quality video settings, such as higher resolution, higher frame rate as well as unmatched professional grade reliability.
  
• Transparent setup - ThirdEye is designed to simply slide into your video security camera work-flow without any change required. Simply replace your wired connection that you normally use to connect to your PTZ camera or gateway with the ThirdEye field unit that is peered with the ThirdEye server and you can start monitoring and managing your PTZ camera remotely.
• Reliable video feed - ThirdEye is designed to cope with and shield the unavoidable fluctuations and performance variations of the cellular Internet connections. The net result is reliable video feed even when some wireless cards may disconnect.
• High Speed Internet access - When not feeding video, ThirdEye doubles as a Broadband Bonding Network Appliance for high speed Internet access over the bonded 3G / 4G wireless cards for data applications.
• Support for any service provider for 3G / 4G data cards - You can use cards from any carrier in any country. Please contact us for the latest list of supported data cards.

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Disney Mobile On DoCoMo Review

Disney Mobile on DoCoMo brand launches with two new Android phones in Japan, which kicking off with two new Android-powered handsets launching over the next couple of months that pack in access to exclusive content from Disney like full-length animations, games, wallpapers and more.Equipped with 1.2GHz dual core CPU, the F-08D sports 4.3-inch high definition display and features waterproof/dustproof design, sparkling silhouettes of Mickey and Minnie mouse and compatible with Osaifu-Keitai mobile wallet service and one-seg services and also exclusive content and services for users of the smartphones will include access to Disney full-length animations, live actions and overseas dramas; digital content from Disney, such as puzzle and music game applications for children and family entertainment; original Disney applications, live wallpapers and more; and customer benefits in co-operation with Tokyo Disney Resort.

NTT DOCOMO INC. announced he first two Android smartphones under the "Disney Mobile on docomo" brand that it is launching in cooperation with The Walt Disney Company (Japan) Ltd. The "Disney Mobile on docomo F-08D" model will go on sale in the end of February and the "Disney Mobile on docomo P-05D" model will launch in March. Both models will be sold in Japan only. The magical world of Disney is featured throughout the two smartphones, from their outer designs to user interfaces, including main displays and screen icons. Both models are waterproof and compatible with popular DOCOMO services, such as Osaifu-Keitai mobile-wallet services. Users will enjoy free access (excluding packet-data charges) with their smartphones to movie services, original live wallpapers, puzzle and music game applications for children and family-entertainment. Special customer benefits also will be offered from this spring in cooperation with Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea, where DOCOMO is an official corporate sponsor. Pre-orders for the "Disney Mobile on docomo F-08D" model scheduled for release in late February will be accepted at docomo shops from February 17. Pre-orders for the Disney Mobile on docomo P-05D model scheduled for release in March will be announced later.

Disney Mobile on docomo F-08D Features:

• Luxury smartphone with sparkling silhouettes of Mickey and Minnie.
• Tabletop holder featuring the world-famous Mickey Head Design.
• 4.3-inch high-resolution HD display with 1.2 GHz dual core CPU to experience dynamic Disney video content.
• Waterproof/dustproof design and compatible with Osaifu-Keitai mobile-wallet service and one-seg services.

Disney Mobile on docomo P-05D Features:

• Stylish smartphone designed to fit comfortably in the palm of one's hand.
• Two customizable Disney jackets for personalized styling.
• Slim 7.8 mm body combined with large 4.3-inch Organic EL display for full enjoyment of Disney content.
• Waterproof/dustproof design and compatible with Osaifu-Keitai mobile-wallet services.

You will find all the specifications of "Disney Mobile on docomo" android smartphones: here

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Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS20 Compact Superzoom Camera Review

Panasonic expands its popular ZS-series digital cameras with new advanced features and creative shooting options packed in a slim body, panasonic LUMIX ZS20 features a 24mm ultra-wide-angle lens, a powerful 20x optical zoom, full-hD video recording and built-in GPS capabilities. Like its ZS10 predecessor the ZS20 offers GPS functions, only this time map data is stored on a bundled DVD and users can select a map for a particular city and upload it to the camera via memory card. The camera will geo-tag images and embed location information in EXIF data, animpressive 82 regions and over a million landmarks are available. The Lumix DMC-ZS20 has a 24mm ultra wide-angle LEICA DC VARIO-ELMAR with Nano Surface Coating technology, which is supposed to improve image clarity with minimized ghosting and flare and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS20 has iA (Intelligent Auto) for beginners, in addition to a slew of other advanced controls like the new HDR (High Dynamic Range). POWER O.I.S. with Active Mode, which suppresses blur from hand-shake, AF Tracking, Intelligent ISO Control, Face Recognition, Intelligent Scene Selector, Intelligent Handheld Nightshot, Motion Deblurmode, Intelligent Burst mode and Intelligent Exposure will all join the party as well to make the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS20 one of the most competitive point-and-shoots on the market.

Panasonic introduced the LUMIX DMC-ZS20 digital camera as the newest member of its acclaimed LUMIX ZS-Series, known for its powerful zoom, and wide-angle in a compact body, all while offering exceptional image quality. With an impressive 20x optical zoom, a 24mm ultra wide-angle LEICA DC VARIO-ELMAR lens and the ability to shoot full-High Definition (HD), the new LUMIX ZS20 builds on the Series' success and is an extremely versatile point-and-shoot model. With a newly-redesigned lens system, the LUMIX ZS20 features a new mechanical structure and optical system to further improve image quality and with Nano Surface Coating technology, the LUMIX ZS20 offers stunning image clarity with minimized ghosting and flare. Beyond the quality of its lens, the LUMIX ZS20 integrates an enhanced built-in GPS functionality, making it easy for users to pinpoint locations where photos were taken and share with family and friends on internet maps. Map data can be installed onto the LUMIX ZS20 via a bundled DVD, giving the camera detailed worldwide maps of major regions on a scale of 1/25,000 or more precise. A user can copy the map data of a designated city to an SDXC/SDHC/SD Memory Card and get quick geographic information to know their location and if any landmarks are located nearby. More than one million landmarks and 82 countries/regions are covered in the bundled DVD map. Geo-tagged images are automatically sorted and can be played back along a map so that users can literally trace their photographic journey. Many GPS cameras show only the latitude and longitude of where a photo is taken, but the LUMIX ZS20 shows the name of the Country/Region, State/Prov./County, County/Township, City/Town/Village and Landmark – all of which is saved in the EXIF data. "Panasonic has long been the leader in developing compact digital cameras with long zooms and wide-angle lenses and with the introduction of the LUMIX ZS20, we continue to be in the forefront with an extremely versatile digital camera that meets the needs of all different types of photographers," said David Briganti, Senior Product Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Marketing Company of North America. "With an impressive 20x optical zoom and 24mm wide-angle lens, the ZS20 gives consumer the ability to capture a variety of different shots, all while carrying a digital camera that is slim enough to slip in a pocket or small purse. Plus with Panasonic's HD video recording capability and improved GPS functionality, the ZS20 is an excellent choice for consumers who want to fully capture the details of their memories."

Featuring a newly developed 14.1-megapixel High Sensitivity MOS sensor, the LUMIX ZS20 is able to provide even higher image quality compared to its predecessors. Coupled with the advanced image processor Venus Engine, the LUMIX ZS20 features high speed, high sensitivity image recording. High speed burst shooting at 10 fps in full resolution and Light Speed AF allows users to capture even the most fleeting photo opportunities. With the ability to record high-resolution, full-HD 1,920 x 1,080 60p videos in AVCHD Progressive (MPEG-4) format (or 30p in MP4), the LUMIX ZS20 upgrades its full-HD recording capability and is able to produce extremely clear video details, even when subjects are moving quickly. A powerful 20x optical zoom with 2-step Zoom function is available in video recording and the popular iA mode assists users, making video recording as easy as aiming the camera. A stereo zoom microphone provides videos with the high-quality stereo sound of Dolby Digital Stereo Creator, offering highly realistic sound in the captured video. The Auto Wind Cut function helps to block out wind background noise making voices clearer, and mechanical noise caused by zooming is suppressed to improve overall video sound quality.

In addition, the ZS20 has manual control options, allowing the user to adjust shutter speed and aperture, and 3D Photo Mode, the LUMIX ZS20 also features a variety of special effects that add fun to a photography shooting experience. Creative Control mode offers a selection of artistic effects including Expressive Retro, High Dynamic, Sepia, Dynamic Monochrome, High Key, Low Key, Miniature Effect, Toy Effect and Soft Focus. In Miniature Effect mode, the peripherals are defocused while saturation and contrast are emphasized to make the picture look like a diorama. Video recorded in this mode is played back in 10x fast-forwarding, making it comical to watch. Panorama mode makes it possible for users to shoot 360-degree horizontal or vertical panoramic images by taking consecutive shots and then overlay it for the effect of a panoramic photo. Creative Retouch mode offers users six filters – Toy Effect, Soft Focus, Dynamic Monochrome, Expressive, High Key and Retro to create artistic looking photos. Additionally, the Auto Retouch function automatically adjusts contrast and brightness for a clearer, more natural image and can be applied with the simple press of a button. For users looking for a more intuitive photo experience, the LUMIX ZS20 features iA (Intelligent Auto) mode, which automatically activates a range of technologies to enhance photos without adjusting settings every time conditions change. The new HDR (High Dynamic Range) together with POWER O.I.S. with Active Mode, which suppresses blur from hand-shake, AF Tracking, Intelligent ISO Control, Face Recognition, Intelligent Scene Selector, Intelligent Handheld Nightshot, Motion Deblur mode, Intelligent Burst mode and Intelligent Exposure allows users to point and shoot, leaving the camera to do all the work in capturing beautiful imagery. The LUMIX ZS20 will be available in March 2012 for a suggested retail price of $349.99 and it will be available in black, red, white, and silver option. Additional features and functionalities of the LUMIX ZS20 include:

• Large, 3.0-inch 460,000-dot Smart Touch LCD Screen
• Touch AF, Touch Zoom or Touch Shutter during recording and various playback functions like scrolling the map with high visibility.
• Flexibility of USB charging or conventional AC adapter charging methods.
• LUMIX Image Uploader for seamless and instant sharing via Facebook or YouTube. Users can checkmark the photo or video files they want to share, connect it to a PC with the included USB cable or by inserting the SD Memory Card directly into the PC’s SD Card slot, and then the uploading automatically launches with an easy-to-follow menu option.

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OWC Mercury Aura Pro Express 6G 480GB SATA 3.0 SSD For MacBook Air Review

Apple's been cramming SSDs into MacBook Air machines for some time now, but Other World Computing believes in pushing the envelope and Mercury Aura Pro Express 6G 480GB SSD offers up to 3x faster performance and 8x more storage capacity for the MacBook Air, and for those who are already running low on local storage, this is a huge boon. Apple’s stock SSDs in current-generation Airs usually stop at around half the maximum speed and OWC gets to the faster speed by using a modern SandForce memory controller, although it doesn’t officially support the TRIM command to optimize the drive, it’s touted as having its own data block management techniques to keep the SSD fast throughout its lifespan. Compatible with current 11.1" and 13.3" MacBook Air models, the Mercury Aura Pro Express 6G 480GB model has a MSRP of $1,149.00 and is available from OWC and all Mercury Aura Pro Express 6G models include 7 percent over provisioning, Toggle Synchronous NAND, and a three-year warranty.

Other World Computing (OWC), a leading zero emissions Mac and PC technology company confirmed at Macworld its OWC Mercury Aura Pro Express 6G SSD is now available in a 480GB model size for the latest Apple MacBook Air 11.1-inch and 13.3-inch models which incorporate 6G (6Gb/s) data rate capabilities. The new Mercury Aura Pro Express 480GB model combines award-winning SandForce technologies and Tier 1/Grade A Toggle Synchronous NAND to deliver data rates up to 3x faster than factory 3G (3Gb/s) options and up to 8x the storage capacity of the factory's base 64GB SSD model. Joining two previously released Mercury Aura Pro Express 6G capacity models-120GB and 240GB-the new 6Gb/s SATA Revision 3.0 480GB model continues OWC's position as the only alternative to factory SSD options for the MacBook Air models. 3G speed Mercury SSDs from OWC are also available in capacities up to 480GB. OWC offers an easy online guide to assist consumers in selecting the correct Mercury Aura Pro Express SSD for any of Apple's MacBook Air models from 2008 to current. The Mercury Aura Pro Express 6G offers the latest MacBook Air owners a cost-effective SSD upgrade path that delivers higher performance, functionality, and reliability over the factory installed SSD. Because the Mercury Aura Pro Express 6G SSD is SATA Revision 3.0 (6Gb/s) compatible, it can take advantage of the MacBook Air's faster processors and built-in 6Gb/s SATA data bus to deliver peak, sustained data rates over 500MB/s, versus the factory installed SSDs, which are limited by SATA Revision 2.0 (3Gb/s) capability.


While ordinary SSDs initially offer fast read/write performance; they experience significant write speed degradation over repeated usage. Independent simulation tests conducted by leading drive performance experts like MacPerformanceGuide confirm OWC Mercury SSD's ultra-efficient Block Management & Wear Leveling technologies are able to eliminate virtually any reduction in data transfer speeds over heavy, long-term usage without dependency on less-than-effective OS TRIM management. "Our initial 120GB and 240GB 6G models were wildly successful as they enabled current model MacBook Air owners to experience the true capabilities of their machine," said Larry O'Connor, Founder and CEO, Other World Computing. "However, we continually received requests to duplicate the 480GB capacity offered in our 3G SSD line for the MacBook Air. Our new 6G 480GB model truly enables owners of 6G capable MacBook Air machines to have the best of both worlds: highest capacity and highest performance versus factory options." Compatible with current 11.1-inch and 13.3-inch MacBook Air models, the Mercury Aura Pro Express 6G 480GB model has a MSRP of $1,149.00 and is available from OWC. All Mercury Aura Pro Express 6G models include 7 percent over provisioning, Toggle Synchronous NAND, and a three-year warranty. For more information on the OWC Mercury Aura Pro Express 6G SSD for the MacBook Air line, including reseller inquires, visit: http://eshop.macsales.com/shop/SSD/OWC/Aura_Pro_Express

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TouchTV App LG Smart TV And iPad Review

LG Electronics and Touchtv announced a global partnership that'll bring Touchtv technology to LG Smart TVs and Touchtv will be available to tens of millions of viewers on their LG Smart TVs. LG Smart TVs offer viewers innovative capabilities such as watching the biggest trending events at any time, custom designed for LG Smart TVs, Touchtv gives viewers around the clock access to watch the most exciting trending events and these newly equipped sets will be available to consumers in Q1 2012. Touchtv brings together the magic of TV with the revolutionary iPad to let you watch snack-size TV any time-anywhere and Touchtv's design not only makes the best programs effortless to watch, it even makes TV light enough you can actually hold it in your hands.

LG Electronics & Touchtv announced their global partnership with Touchtv to be integrated into LG Smart TVs. Touchtv will be available to tens of millions of viewers on their LG Smart TVs. With Touchtv, LG Smart TVs offer viewers innovative capabilities such as watching the biggest trending events at any time. Touchtv and LG also plan to share more product details as the newest LG Smart TVs become available later this year. "With LG's constant innovation, remarkable product quality, and focus on incredible customer experiences, we're very excited to be a partner of LG," said Kevin Pomplun, SkyGrid's CEO. "We're delighted to have designed such a remarkable product together and to be available for the launch of LG's newest Smart TVs." Custom designed for LG Smart TVs, Touchtv gives viewers around the clock access to watch the most exciting trending events. LG Smart TVs with Touchtv will be available to customers in Q1 2012; additional details to follow in local markets. Created by SkyGrid, who Apple just named a Best News App of 2011, Touchtv introduced the world's first TV for iPad.

Touchtv also announced the immediate availability of its Touchtv App for iPad, that lets viewers watch their favorite programs anytime, anywhere. With Touchtv, viewers can watch their favorite sports, entertainment, politics, and news channels. "With over 1.7 billion people watching TV every day, TV is the biggest media there's ever been, and now it's available on the fastest growing device in history, the iPad," said Kevin Pomplun, SkyGridʼs CEO. "Touchtv not only gives you the most captivating programs anywhere, it actually makes TV light enough that you can hold it in your hands. It's amazing." Custom designed for the iPad, Touchtv gives viewers their own personal TV to watch their favorite channels effortlessly. Simply launch Touchtv and "touch" any channel to start watching. From the Home Screen viewers can add more channels and personalize their TV. Touchtv puts a world of programming in viewer's hands, with the best channels from sports, entertainment, politics, and more. It updates automatically and seamlessly delivers the latest programs from the exact channels viewers want. Touchtv is available for free at www.touchtv.me or from the App Store on iPad or at www.itunes.com/apps/touchtv.

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Sony Walkman B170 Series Mp3 Player Review

Sony unveils Walkman B170 Series for promises to boost your bass and at28 grams, the B170 is one of the lightest MP3 players in the Walkman series. The MP3 player is embedded with matching LED lights that blinks along with the music and the dedicated Bass Boost button gives a pumping boost to the music giving a rich audio experience. The Walkman B170 comes in Black, Blue, Gold, Pink and Red colours which also have a clip for attaching to belt and clothing and there's also an onboard equalizer, voice recorder and USB port, as well as a dedicated Bass Boost.

Review Highlights:

• Light, colourful MP3 player with quick-charge battery
• Pumping beats with Bass Boost button
• Quick 3 minutes battery charge gives 90 minutes playback
• Clip attaches Walkman to belt or clothes
• Easy drag and drop music transfers
• Built-in USB connects Walkman to PC, hi-fi or car stereo
• Get ready to really feel the music with the colourful Walkman B170 Series of MP3 players from Sony.

Weighing just 28g, new Walkman B Series is small and light enough to take anywhere: but don't be deceived by its tiny size. Press the Bass Boost button and you'll be blown away by rich, pumping low-end. And to show where you're coming from, there's a colour-matched LED that pulses in time with the music. When you're in a hurry, 3 minutes charging time gives enough battery power for 90 minutes listening. Fully charged, Walkman B Series lets you listen non-stop for 18 hours – plenty for the longest commute or an overnight break. You won't want to keep other people in the dark about your favourite MP3 player. Walkman B Series features a chunky clip that attaches to a belt, bag strap or clothing to show off your style. It's easy to load up with your favourite songs. Walkman connects directly to any Windows PC via its built-in USB port with no extra cables required. Copying files is a simple drag-and-drop process, with no need to install any file transfer software. You can also connect Walkman to a compatible hi-fi or car stereo3 and enjoy direct playback. Looking for the right song to fit your mood? ZAPPIN search technology scans through your music collection, previewing a snatch of each track without menus or playlists. Hear a track you like and press the ZAP button again to hear the whole song. Extra refinements include an on-board equalizer to sculpt your sound, plus a voice recorder that's perfect for grabbing spontaneous thoughts, notes and ideas. The new Walkman B170 Series of MP3 players by Sony are available in a choice of 2GB or 4GB capacities from January 2012.

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Line 6 StageScape M20d Smart Visual Mixer For Live Sound Review

With the NAMM music trade show just around the corner a number of mixer manufacturers have been announcing their new hardware this week and adding to the lineup Line6 has now introduced a new StageScape visual mixer which is equipped with a touchscreen input feature and has 12 high-performance, digitally controlled, auto-sensing mic/line inputs. StageScape M20d visual mixer have inputs (12 line / mic, four line-only, and two for USB/SD streaming) and outputs (four XLR monitors, two master) all strummed along by internal 32-bit floating-point processing and other features include Kaossilator style X-Y multi-parameter control, and color coded pots presumably so you don't kill the guitar solo by mistake. A final flourish is remote control via an iPad, for mid-track sound tweaks and inputs for integrating MP3 players or other sound sources, 4 auto-sensing monitor outputs on balanced XLR connectors, 2 auto-sensing main outputs on balanced XLR connectors and L6 LINK multi-channel digital networking for integrating L6 LINK enabled speaker systems.

Line 6 introduces StageScape M20d the world's first smart mixer for live sound. Featuring a groundbreaking touchscreen visual mixing environment, StageScape M20d streamlines and accelerates the process of getting great live sound in an intuitive, complete solution that inspires great performances. Massive DSP power delivers comprehensive professional audio processing on every channel including multi-band feedback suppression. Multi-channel recording, remote control capabilities via one or more iPad devices and pristine audio quality make the StageScape M20d an ideal mixing solution for a wide variety of live sound applications. "For musicians who take care of their own live sound, getting great results consistently can be a time-consuming and frustrating experience – particularly when they want to be focused on performing," said Simon Jones, vice president of new market development at Line 6. "StageScape M20d answers those challenges by reinventing mixer workflow to better empower musicians to dial in a great mix with speed and ease. With a smart design to dramatically reduce setup time, intuitive touchscreen control that simplifies complex mixing tasks, and premium mic pre's and effects to ensure the best sound quality, StageScape M20d will deliver great sound in a range of situations." A groundbreaking visual mixing system replaces the traditional mixer channel strip with intuitive touchscreen control. In Perform Mode, a graphic display of the stage setup uses icons to represent each performer or input. Color-coded encoders provide immediate access to level control. A single touch on a performer's icon gives access to all parameters relating to that channel, from basic tweaks through deep effects editing. The audio signal chain can be controlled via an innovative X-Y tweak pad. Drag a finger toward common sound descriptors like bright or dark and multiple parameters adjust simultaneously to achieve that sound. Deep Edit mode gives more experienced operators access to every effect parameter via a familiar plug-in style interface.

StageScape M20d streamlines setup with auto-sensing mic and line inputs and outputs that can detect when a connection is made and automatically configure the channel gain, EQ, effects and routing. StageScape M20d streamlines setup with auto-sensing mic and line inputs and outputs that can detect when a connection is made and automatically configure the channel gain, EQ, effects and routing. Taking full advantage of Line 6 audio processing expertise, StageScape M20d features professional-grade effects on every channel, including fully parametric EQs, multi-band compressors, feedback suppression, and more. In addition, four master stereo effects engines are available, comprising studio quality reverbs, delays and a vocal doubler. A wide range of channel presets covering everything from individual drum settings to lead vocals allow musicians to configure appropriate channel effects quickly. Equipped with the L6 LINK digital networking protocol, StageScape M20d allows complete PA systems of any scale to be easily configured and controlled. Connect StageScape M20d to L6 LINK enabled StageSource speakers and the system automatically configures stereo signals and effects, sets individual component levels and adjusts individual speaker performance. When connected via L6 LINK, StageScape M20d and StageSource speakers are capable of unparalleled power and flexibility. Together they redefine the typical mixer-speaker paradigm to introduce a smarter live sound experience in which the live rig is a complete, intelligent eco-system rather than merely a linear combination of components. Intelligence is built into every aspect of StageScape M20d. From auto-sensing inputs that configure channel DSP processing strips, to professionally crafted audio processing presets, to innovative touchscreen-based multi-parameter effects control, StageScape M20d provides the fastest path to great live sound. StageScape is ideal for a wide range of live sound applications from performing musicians and bands, through to fixed installation in clubs, houses of worship or corporate event venues.

Inputs/Outputs:

• 12 high-performance, digitally controlled, auto-sensing mic/line inputs
• 4 additional auto-sensing line inputs
• 2 digital streaming inputs direct from computer, USB drive or SD card
• Stereo line inputs for integrating MP3 players or other sound sources
• 4 auto-sensing monitor outputs on balanced XLR connectors
• 2 auto-sensing main outputs on balanced XLR connectors
• L6 LINK multi-channel digital networking for integrating L6 LINK enabled speaker systems

Control:

• 7-inch full-color touchscreen visual mixing environment
• Remote control capability via one or more iPad® or iPad® 2 devices via an optional USB WiFi adapter

Recording:

• Multi-channel recording to computer, USB drive or SD card
• Quick-capture recording to internal memory for sound check

Processing:

• Internal 32-bit floating point audio processing
• Massive DSP power provides parametric EQs, dynamic EQs, compressors, multi-band compressors, gates, delays, limiters and more
• Multi-band feedback suppression on every mic input
• 4 stereo master effects engines including reverbs, delays and vocal doubler
• Virtually unlimited I/O setups, scenes, and channel processing presets.

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LG Optimus Pad LTE Android 3.2 Tablet With 8.9-inch 1280 x 768 True HD IPS Display Review

LG announced the launch of its first LTE-capable tablet, the Optimus Pad LTE, which features LTE connectivity, an 8.9″ True HD (1280 x 720) IPS display, an 8-megapixel rear camera, a 2-megapixel front facing camera, a Qualcomm 1.5GHz dual-core processor, Android 3.2 Honeycomb, 32GB of internal storage, microSD card slot (up to 32GB), HDMI output, DLNA, and a 6,800mAh battery. No word on whether the tablet will be receiving Ice Cream Sandwich, but the tablet will be initially launched in South Korea before it makes its way to the rest of the world and the True HD display and LTE connectivity will definitely draw a lot of people.

LG Electronics (LG) unveiled its first LTE-capable tablet, the Optimus Pad LTE. Initially launching in Korea, LG has equipped the tablet with both LTE technology and True HD IPS display, the two features that have helped LG differentiate its latest smartphone, Optimus LTE, from the competition. "With tablets generating five times more traffic than the average smartphone, it's not a huge jump to assume that tablet users need and want faster connectivity," said Dr. Jong-seok Park, President and CEO of LG Mobile Communications Company. "The combination of LG's LTE technology with the tablet form factor is a clear advantage for consumers who use a tablet as their primary consumption device when on the move." Boasting the best-in-class in the tablets, LG Optimus Pad LTE provides the ultimate user environment to enjoy HD multimedia with a 1280 x 720 True HD IPS display and 8 megapixel camera for shooting high definition video. The Optimus Pad LTE is also the world's first tablet to support an SD memory card expandable to 32GB, recognizing the importance multimedia would play for owners of this device. Along with these features, the Optimus Pad LTE offers easy-to-use controls and functions such as the Smart Movie Editor for editing pictures and videos more easily. Moreover, Web Duet allows for e-mailing, messaging and SNS sharing with search functions and On-Screen Phone (OSP) ensures compatibility with LG smartphones. LG Optimus Pad LTE is extremely portable and aesthetically pleasing, weighing in at a svelte 479g and only 9.34mm thin. Equipped with a 1.5 GHz dual-core processor running Android 3.2 Honeycomb OS, LG's newest tablet guarantees superior performance. It also supports High Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) and Digital Living Network Alliance (DLNA).

Key Specifications:

• Operating System: Android 3.2 Honeycomb
• Memory: User 32GB (Micro SD up to 32GB)
• Size: 245 x 151.4 x 9.34 mm
• Weight: 497 g
• Display: 8.9-inch IPS True HD Display
• Resolution: 1280 x 768
• Camera: 8MP (Rear) / 2MP (Front)
• Processor: Qualcomm 1.5GHz Dual-Core / Dual Channel Processor
• Battery: 6,800mAh
• Others: HDMI, DLNA

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iConnectivity iConnectMUSE Digital Audio Mixer For iOS Review

iConnectivity has unveiled an ultra-portable digital audio mixer designed to work with your iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch and the mixer is called the iConnectMUSE and promises to bring studio quality mixing capabilities to your iOS device, it's a digital audio mixer that is compact in size, and yet packs in a fair number of features such as half a dozen stereo inputs, an equal number of stereo outputs and stereo headphone output to deliver ultimate audio control via iOS or computer software. The mixer also features two USB ports, two 1/4-inch output audio jacks, a headphone monitor jack, Ethernet connection, and a MIDI pass-thru interface with limited DSP processing and expect the iConnectMUSE to hit the market sometime in the second quarter of the year for $229.99.

iConnectivity, forward thinking developer of hardware accessories and applications for iPhone, iPod touch and iPad announce its latest creation, iConnectMUSE at CES 2012 in Las Vegas. For musicians looking to control their unique mixes through iOS or computer software while maintaining exceptional sound quality, look no further than iConnectMUSE– a palm-sized personal mini-mixer that combines several music accessories into one iOS controlled product, perfect for gigs at home or on the road. The end result? Studio-quality analog audio converted to digital. With iConnectMUSE™, the user will experience higher quality audio processing, improved audio latency and the ability to share and mix audio through an iOS device, and even charge the iOS device at the same time. Featuring six stereo inputs and six stereo outputs, each with its own unique mix, this ultra compact device may be small on size, but huge on functionality and features. If you're a student musician exploring your own personal composition technique, a professional musician composing in a hotel room or on tour, or the performing musician who needs consistency moving from gig to gig, iConnectMUSE is the all-in-one, portable solution. Additional features include two USB device ports, hub-able USB Host Port, two input and two output ¼" audio port jacks, a headphone monitor jack, Ethernet connection for network sharing, a MIDI pass-thru interface and limited DSP processing. "iConnecMUSE™ is the future of audio mixing," said Michael Loh, CEO of iConnectivity. "Its portability, expandability and enhanced functionality through software integration provides the conduit for music creativity for all musicians." iConnectMUSE, available Q2 of 2012, will retail for $229.99 (MSRP).

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