Nov 13, 2009

Brother SV-100B Electronic Paper


Brother Industries Ltd., a Japanese electronic company, recently introduced its latest product called SV-100B Electronic Paper which is a mobile device designed to store up to 10,000 documents.

This high-performing electronic document viewer is ideal for professionals and students since the device will allow them to carry around important files anywhere they go.

“Professional workers including doctors, lawyers, engineers, teachers, and architects can use SV-100B Electronic Paper to make their lives comfortable since they will no longer have to carry around bulky documents and files”, the Brother Industries said.

Designed specifically for mobile users, the company made sure that the electronic paper is very compact. It measures 202.8 (L) x 139.4 (W) x 15.5 (D) mm and weighs approximately 600 g, making this device very handy.

One of the main highlights of the document viewer is the long battery life. Because it only consumes power every time users turn the page, a single battery charge can approximately last 83 hours. (When the page is not switched, the system barely consumes energy).

This device uses Electronic Ink Technology which does not require backlighting. Another advantage of this technology is that it is viewable in different lighting conditions, from dim-lit rooms to bright outdoor light.

Another impressive feature is the security system which allows users to encrypt their data, thus protecting sensitive files in case the memory card gets lost. In terms of memory capacity, the electronic paper has 2-gigabyte microSD card that allows users to store up to 10,000 documents with the size of A4.

The mobile device has also been designed to support Bluetooth Technology. With this feature, the SV-100B can display text messages from handsets, personal digital assistant (PDA) devices, and other electronic media which support Bluetooth connectivity. To enjoy this feature, a separate device will be needed for this function.

The Japanese company said the SV-100B will be introduced in the US market before the year ends. Meanwhile, it did not provide the exact pricing details.

LG Electronics BH100 Blu-ray Player



LG Electronics, the world’s leading company of communication and electronics products, has introduced the LG BH100 which is a device that both features Blu-ray Technology and High-definition (HD) Technology. This device provides high-quality pictures with its full HD 1080p resolution and crisp and clear sound with its analog audio format through its six-channel analog outputs.

It can support these media and discs: BD, DVD, DVD+R, DVD+RW, DVD-R, DVD-RW, and HD-DVD. It also features interface Ethernet – RJ45 input and output which includes HDMI, Component Video, A/V (Composite), Audio – Digital Optical, Audio – Multichannel RCA (Decoded), and Audio – Digital Coaxial.

Other impressive features included are 24 Bit audio DAC quality with new surround sound system and two-channel audio processing formats; 1080i (HDTV) video upconversion; 8 Bit video DAC; Dolby Digital and Dolby Digital Plus; DTS and DTS-HD lossless; DTS 5.1; illuminated remote control for easy and convenient navigation.

The device’s total measurement is 9.8-inch deep, 16.9inch wide, and 3-inch tall, with a total weight of 9 lbs. The top portion of this media player features various control buttons (play, eject, stop, and resolution) which light up in a whitish blue color every time users would turn the device on. When users would insert a disc inside this media player device, the tv screen will display the format, the kind of video output, and the resolution of the disc.

The LG BH100 also has its setback: the device is made to provide full support to Blu-ray Technology but doesn’t offer much when it comes to HD DVD. It also comes less with less user-friendly features with its not-so-easy navigation menu system where the titles and numbers are too lengthy to read.

This device includes a remote control (with batteries included), user manual, registration card, Composite Video/Analog Stereo cables, and Component video cable. This home entertainment solution comes in a very steep price of $1,999, but for those technology savvy, this media player may prove to be a good investment to make.

Appple iPod Nano 3G TV


Apple has recently unveiled one of the most exciting versions of its renowned music player called iPod Nano 3G TV.

Unlike the traditional shape of iPod Nano series, the new Nano 3G TV has been designed to accommodate a “mini-wide screen” 2-inch LCD display which is perfect for watching videos.

Meanwhile, the design of this device allows its manufacturer to fit it with a bigger QVGA display or with a 320 x 240 image resolution.

And unlike the previous models, the picture quality on the new iPod is outstanding considering its small LCD. Though one question users may ask when confronted with a small screen is: “How exactly are you going to watch videos with this?”

According to Apple CEO Steve Jobs, the inclusion of video support to the device is only for occasional TV or video watching.

The iPod Nano 3G TV hosts the newest split screen interface, also a first to all iPod models. The split screen works like a “start” button on the computer, the list of tracks and options are listed on the left side of the screen, while pictures, images, and icons are displayed on the right side.

But according to sources, the company still has to perfect the new split screen design to this device as it also hosts a list of major problems. One of the glitches cited is the slow animation of the art/album cover. (Users might need extra seconds just to see what the album cover looks like.)

Also, the CoverFlow interface option which is unique to the iPhone, is also slow. But the new iPod has more than 24-hours of battery life for audio, and five hours for video playback.

The iPod Nano 3G TV also has gaming feature, but only three out of 20 iPod games will be available, which include Ms. Pac-Man, Sudoku, and Tetris.

The 16GB model is available in many colors but the 4GB version is only offered in silver. Meanwhile, the iPod Nano 4GB and 8GB cost $149 and $199, respectively.

FLIR System Night Vision Camera


FLIR System is a company which specializes in manufacturing and developing night vision cameras that feature state-of-the-art infrared imaging technology system which provides outstanding performance and functionality.

These special heat-sensitive cameras are equipped with laser technology, camera cores, infrared coatings and optics, and cry-coolers. This convergence of different innovations and technologies provides each camera model high-quality performance and functions which make it one of the most highly-recommended devices for security and safety.

The company provides various camera models in order to accommodate different needs of each consumer. The model design ranges from airborne, marine, terrestrial, and unmanned capability.

The airborne cameras can be secured on rotor-wing or fixed platforms since these feature multi-sensor thermal imaging system which is designed to withstand harsh elements such as wind and dust. With this impressive feature, it is highly-ideal even in most extreme environment.

Meanwhile, the maritime cameras are designed to withstand water element and the harsh environment at sea. With its water-proof technology, users can attach these thermal-sensitive cameras to any naval vessel.

The company also provides cameras which are highly-designed to perform on terrestrial environment. These cameras can perform short-range and long-range functions and can be attached on a vehicle or can be handheld carry to provide visual imagery even on darkness or low-light environment.

The FLIR System also offers cameras which can be controlled via remote. With this feature, the use of these devices provides safety especially for people since it no longer require people to enter high-risk environments. Since this unmanned designed do not require physical presence of its users, this is highly-ideal for soldiers whose line of duty is to secure his area of responsibility.

With FLIR System night vision and infrared cameras, people can secure their places and make it safer for them. Because of its high-quality products, this company has been chosen to provide the government, individuals, and military with surveillance night vision cameras. With its growing number of loyal clients, the company has expanded to more than 60 countries.

Cowon S9 Multi-media Device


Cowon S9 is a portable multi-media device that features advanced technologies which can provide various entertainment functions including music player and movie capability.

One main highlight of Cowon S9 is the 3.3-inch AMOLED screen display which can support images in high resolution format with over million colors that makes the pictures appear as vivid and realistic as possible. Other impressive features of the wide screen display are the Touch-sensitive Technology which provides easy applications and a G-sensor which automatically changes the size and characteristic of the screen when the user tilts the device.

The portable device is also ideal for storing video recordings and photos because it has preview thumbnail which allows users to easily browse and search each image and video.

Another notable feature is the built-in MP3 player that uses sound effect technology which provides crystal-clear sounds by lowering the frequency and balancing the audio dynamics.

Cowon S9 also has a built-in FM radio that features both analogue and digital formats. There is also a jog dial that users can touch in order to change the frequency. Meanwhile, there are 24 presets for changing the radio channel.

To easily manage the music application, the device has dedicated song control buttons located at its upper side.

Another media function is the digital voice recorder which provides different sound quality to accommodate every kind of audio recordings. Meanwhile, the recorder can also allow users to save and record a segment of their favorite radio station.

To allow users to add more applications such as games and other entertainment functions, the portable device has Flash support.

Other features are TV-out (sold separately), built-in rechargeable lithium-ion battery, USB 2.0, and calculator function.

While Cowon S9 provides impressive audio and visual technologies, the device lacks one thing which is probably the most important for most mobile users: Internet connection. So for those web-centric consumers, this gadget is not ideal for them and it would be better to invest to web-enabled smartphones, PDAs, and Black Berries.

Nikon COOLPIX S60 Digital Camera


Japanese electronic firm Nikon recently unveiled its newest product called COOLPIX S60 which is a 10-megapixel digital camera that features multiple image editing tools and setting for capturing great images.

This camera features high resolution NIKKOR Glass lens that allows users to print up to 16 x 20-inch images which still comes in finest details and vivid colors. The lens also has 5xOptical Zoom Technology which further improves the picture’s colors and details.

One of the main highlights of this portable camera is the EXPEED Image Processing that provides quick response and reliable performance while supporting other image editing tools and settings.

To prevent blurry images caused by unstable hands or fast-moving subjects, the COOLPIX S60 features Optical VR Image Stabilization that works by correcting hazy pictures and making it appear as sharp and clear as possible.

Another notable feature is the 3.5-inch high resolution Touch Panel LCD that allows users to access all the camera functions and applications (all controls are displayed on the LCD, except for the shutter release key and on/off power button). Also, with anti-reflection coating on the surface of the LCD, people can view the controls even in bright light.

The Touch Panel display has also been designed to support a stylus which allows people to write messages on their pictures.

The COOLPIX S60 also boasts a new technology called Touch Autofocus and Auto Exposure. This is how to use the feature: touch the subject on the LCD panel and the camera will automatically set the focus and adjust the exposure.

Other features are Retouch Functions which allows users to paint or write messages in their photos; HD Pictmotion Slide Shows for image presentation with music background; Scene Auto Selector which automatically adjusts the setting; and “intelligent” technologies including Smile Shuttter and Blink Warnings.

COOLPIX S60 comes at a price of $299.95, which is relatively cheaper given the fact that its features are quite impressive. Meanwhile, this compact camera is available in different colors including Crimson Red, Espresso Black, Platinum Bronze, Burgundy, Champagne Pink, and Arctic White.

Panasonic LUMIX GH1 DSLR Camera


Panasonic recently unveiled the latest model from its LUMIX G DSLR series called GH1 that features advanced image technologies including high definition recording capability that will allow users to capture moving photos with vivid details.

The DMC-GH1 is ideal for professional photographers because it boasts functions and “intelligent” technologies to support high resolution images. One notable feature is the long-zoom interchangeable lens (LUMIX G VARIO HD 14-140mm/F4.0-5.8 ASPH./MEGA O.I.S.) which can support high definition recording capability (1920 x 1080) with auto focus (AF).

In addition to HD Technology, the camera features LUMIX Creative Movie mode that enables users to manually set the aperture and shutter speed that will make video recordings more visually appealing and dramatic.

Apart from high definition recordings, the 12.-megapixel camera also provides Dolby Digital Stereo Creator for high quality stereo sound equipped with Wind Cut function that blocks the background noise in a video. Meanwhile, users can also buy stereo microphone (DMW-MS1) for their cameras to capture movie-like sound quality.

Another notable feature is the Live View Finder that allows photographers to preview all the possible outcome of a photo when they adjust the camera settings such as shutter speed, exposure, and aperture. This technology is also integrated with built-in eye sensor which automatically displays the viewfinder when users look into the screen.

To allow photographers to focus more on the subject, the DSLR camera features 3-inch widescreen LCD display which can support realistic and vivid photos with its 460,000-dot high-resolution technology.

The GH1 also has Venus Engine HD that supports fast processing capability. This technology is integrated with Live MOS Sensor for storing photos while supporting 4:3, 3:2 or 16:9 aspect ratios of images.

Other features of GH1 are: Face Recognition Technology for detecting faces; Optical Image Stabilization to prevent blurry pictures; ISO Control to prevent motion blur; and wide selection of Scene modes to accommodate different environment and lighting conditions.

According to Panasonic the GH1 has been designed to be compatible with all Four Thirds lenses which can allow them to shoot images in long distance.